JournalTalk – Write4Life

You can hear my enthusiasm in the intro of this week’s episode, because it’s a profound pleasure to have Joyce Chapman finally appear on JournalTalk. Joyce’s history and wisdom in Journal-writing goes back further than anyone else I’ve met. And she summarizes all of it in single sentence: “Journal to know yourself.” She’s convinced that sticking […]

My guest this week asks us to consider that perhaps our journals are not really private. Maybe the pages we write are a collaboration with a universal spirit, a co-author in our life experience. Join me in an open-minded dialogue with Maryann Patalano, a religious science practitioner and author of the book, Journal Like God, as we explore […]

Part three of our series in fantasy journaling features Anne Marvin‘s concept of finding truth in fantasy — finding out what you really want, by exploring the worlds of fantasy and make-believe. Anne has a background in federal nuclear weapons policy, but confesses she also enjoys “deep thoughts while reading vampire porn.” Her blog is loaded […]

Have I got a story for you. In the previous episode, I introduced the concept of “fantasy journaling” — writing in a private diary, about events that never actually took place, as if they had. In this episode, I’m joined by my friend, “Janet-from-another-Planet” as I share about the most interesting and extreme version of fantasy journaling […]

Sweeping through my boxes of old journal books, I happened upon a passage that I wrote in college — a detailed account of a semi-erotic interaction with someone on whom I had a secret crush. Wait a minute, I thought, as my neurons raced to retrieve my inner journal logs for comparison, I don’t remember this ever […]

You don’t have to believe that Dorothy Gale was a real Kansas farmer’s niece, or acknowledge the existence of a magical Munchkinland in order to gain insights and inspiration for finding your own (yellow-brick) path home. Similarly, you can draw upon a number of powerful images and stories to deepen your spiritual journey, without committing to a belief […]

Susan Borkin joins me once again, to share a therapist’s viewpoint on the journal-writing benefit of improved self-esteem, and walk us through a few tips from her book, The Healing Power of Writing. Maybe it’s a generational thing, but I don’t seem to hear about the importance of a positive self-image anymore. When I was growing up in the […]

A key distinction that sets journaling apart from all other forms of creative expression is privacy. In this episode, we take a step beyond. My guest, Doug Foresta, believes firmly in the benefits of private journal-writing, and yet also urges us, “the world needs our voice and our gifts.” Producer and host of Creating Change on Empower Radio and […]

Anonymous callers are so much fun, and ask such close, personal questions. This one asks, “Can a journal help someone with anger management issues?” I’ve got some thoughts of my own on this, but I’ve invited back back Susan Borkin, to include a therapist’s viewpoint. Her book, The Healing Power of Writing,is a great resource for questions like […]

I’ve often said on this program: Journaling is a process, not a product; a journey not the destination. This week, meet Jami McQuivey, an author, coach and speaker who is on that perpetual journey of self-discovery, constantly realizing new dreams.  Her first book, Stop Drifting, Start Living containing twenty-two lessons from her travels in China, is being […]

Several episodes ago, I interviewed Susan Borkin, and we just “clicked”. I’ve enjoyed having her come back to share answers to those of your journaling questions that she has written about in her book, The Healing Power of Writing. In this episode, a JournalTalk listener shares her immense grief over her mom’s absence for the past 4+ years, […]

As we journey through the movement of our life, what aspects of ourselves do we birth or bury, in order to make sense of, and give meaning to, our experience? This question was my guest’s inspiration for her newest book. Nearly two years ago, I interviewed Joan Leof, after she inspired me to dig back through my old, […]

A quick Google search on the term “journaling” will offer at least one measure of social proof that there’s healing power in writing. But can journal-writing really help with long-lasting sadness? Can it cure, or at least relieve depression? Susan Borkin, author, licensed psychotherapist, and pioneer in the field of journal therapy, joins me in answering […]

Speaking with Kay Adams is always a treat, and offers the proverbial smorgasbord of lively topics under the umbrella of journal-writing for health and happiness! Kay is author to numerous books on journaling, in addition to being the editor of the ten-volume series, It’s Easy to W.R.I.T.E.! Her Center for Journal Therapy was a sponsor for the 30-Day Digital Journaling Challenge, and […]

It seems that the questions I’m receiving from listeners about journal-writing are becoming more numerous, more interesting, and more specific as this program continues. I’ve been saving a select handful having to do with psychological conditions for a co-host like Susan Borkin, a psychotherapist who shares my belief in the therapeutic value of journaling. Here […]

It is a great honor to have the opportunity to interview a long-time mentor of mine, a man who needs no introduction. And, I enjoyed introducing anyway. Jack Canfield has made his way into the hearts and homes of millions of people worldwide, for one reason or another, and this interview only scratched the surface of a […]

Tom asks, “Is there ever a time I would write in my journal when I’m not analyzing something?” To many, keeping a journal is a great tool and practice for problem-solving, so it might be natural to think that’s the only time to visit the blank page. Many people have also used journaling as a practice in […]

Too often, we carry around with us the constraints and limiting beliefs of our past. Do you wonder how to identify those pesky, negative and disempowering stories that weigh you down emotionally? Laura Coe is an author, blogger, and certified life coach with a mission to help people shed emotional weight. In her book, Emotional Obesity, […]

During a NINETY-DAY journal-writing challenge this winter, where I met a new friend “Wizzy” (Janet Wiszowaty), I was asked “the time of day” question again, so I thought I’d make a short episode about it. What’s the best time of day to make your journal entries? Early Morning is ideal for writing about your hopes or desires for […]

Several episodes back, I gave some suggestions for what to write if you only have five minutes each day with your journal. We have revisited this idea many times in this podcast series, because like so many people I’ve sometimes only got five spare minutes to write — and some days, those five minutes alone with my […]

It seems that everywhere you turn, someone is offering yet another challenge. Doesn’t life bring us enough challenges without having to invent more? Today’s journaling question was asked innocently by someone who wanted to understand “What is a journal-writing challenge?” My friend Jayde Gilmore of Wings Life Coaching returns to the co-host microphone to help me […]

My guest this week was pioneering the field of writing therapy before such a field even existed, and long before the word “journaling” became an internet buzzword. Susan Borkin continues to make a difference for seekers of healing through words, as a psychotherapist and author of books including: When Your Heart Speaks, Take Good Notes, and Writing From The Inside […]

Leslie, a friend and co-facilitator of journaling workshops in Thousand Oaks, California asks, “When leading a journal workshop, should you read your own private journal as a way to invite others to share their own writing?” A journal-writing workshop is an ideal place to discuss the context and content of your own journal. On one hand, it’s […]

In December of 2012, a remarkable book hit the virtual shelves of Amazon.com, called The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM). In it, author, success coach, and keynote motivational speaker Hal Elrod explains the benefits of a powerful morning routine. This book continues to be a wonderful wake-up call for personal […]

Publishing for a public audience and keeping a private journal are two spheres of a Venn diagram that do, in my opinion, have a very interesting intersection. This episode, long-time JournalTalk listener Nestor asks, “How can journaling help me through the process of publishing my book?” Janet Wiszowaty, a Jack Canfield success trainer, joins me in sharing tips […]

My favorite year-end tradition is a private ritual I learned from my 11th grade English teacher: writing my future self a “year in review” letter. Just like a time capsule, I open the letter from last year sometime after Halloween (sometimes the letters are like ghouls from the past!) and before January, I make the time […]

Meeting extraordinary people like Laura Probert is my favorite part of producing these JournalTalk podcast episodes. A black belt in taekwondo, Laura is trained in physical therapy, and calls herself a warrior healing expert. She wrote about her own healing journey in Living, Healing and Taekwondo, and today, she is a teacher for people who are fed […]

Dima Dupéré introduces a beautiful acronym (M.O.S.S.) to help us remember that journal-writing includes a vast, multi-dimensional, array of options. Passionate about the therapeutic value of words and art, Dima is a social worker who engages creatively to help people thrive. Whether conducting a community workshop, training professionals or offering individual counselling, her focus is on […]

One of the deepest fears people have about keeping a journal is having their privacy violated. And rightly so. For most of us, privacy ensures safety. And only in a space of complete safety can we allow ourselves to be vulnerably honest. Journal-writing is valuable only to the degree we are willing to honestly explore ourselves and our most precious desires. Whether […]

When I first started keeping a journal in 1985, I had not anticipated its profound impact. By simply recording miniature stories of my daily drama, I unknowingly conjured to life a supportive, consistent voice for the interpretations of my experience. This compassionate narrator offered me a sense of friendship with myself, which was both powerful and healing. It allowed me to […]

This episode is dedicated to my brother Dan, and his Number One Reason for not taking my journal-writing suggestions. He’s my biggest fan, but admits, “I hate writing!” Kim Ades with Frame of Mind Coaching joins me with a response to Dan (and all those who say “thanks but no thanks” to journaling). The key is to […]

This week’s journal-writing expert brings a rich, wide spectrum of tools and experience to the table! Dr. Linda Peterson-St. Pierre is a Medical Psychologist who spent 35 years teaching at the University of Nevada Medical School. At the same time Linda held a full time clinical practice and testified for military families in the court system. Stressed by the University’s “publish or perish” mindset, […]

Mari Adkins from Journaling Journey asks, “What do you do when you’re burned-out from journal-writing, and how do you get going again?” After some personal discussion about project management, and some Wings Life Coaching from my co-host Jayde Gilmore, we share our strategies for this familiar feeling of being overwhelmed or stuck in our journaling practice. We each […]

Daughter of two bookworms, Jenna Mayhew cofounded an international counseling clinic called Write As Rain. She treats clients all over the world, using evidence-based methods of written word therapy. In other words, she is something like a Pen Pal Therapist! Warning: This conversation is another of those which became fun to the point of giggly! Jenna and I weaved through the interview […]

We’ve heard the 101 reasons to keep a journal, and all the benefits of journal-writing: mental clarity, emotional balance, even physical healing. Today’s question addresses HOW journaling can provide all these benefits. Kim Ades from Frame of Mind Coaching helps me deconstruct the journaling process, and identify what it is about capturing thoughts that makes journaling so […]

Did you know that journal-writing can be used to further your career and develop valuable leadership skills? In this episode, meet Gina Rae Hendrickson, a friend and colleague whose company, Genius Leadership Tools, helps bring out the genius in you and your team. Together, we interview the Santa Barbara Chief of Police, Camarino Sanchez. Chief […]

The traumatic student shooting in Columbine, Colorado (April 1999). Racial tragedies such as those in Charleston, South Carolina (2015) and Ferguson, Missouri (2014). The Los Angeles race riots of 1992. The World Trade Center collapse of 9/11.  Events so profoundly sad and far-reaching inspire many people turn to their journals for reflection, prayer, grieving, and hope. Is it possible […]

JournalTalk has offered me the pleasure of interviewing some interesting people. People who have developed a habit of asking themselves tough questions, listening to the voice(s) within, and staying present to the answers that unfold. This week’s guest is a great example of such a guy. Thai Nguyen writes with a candid, authentic voice. His articles […]

In the first session of every journal-writing workshop I teach, we spend a little time sharing (and debunking!) the myths and rumors we’ve all heard about “the rules” of proper journal-keeping. So when I saw this question online, I knew I had to make an episode about it. Should I start a certain way? Does each entry […]

Journal-writing can’t get any easier than this. Checking in with your feelings — being aware of what’s alive inside you — is the Ground Zero for living a life of passion, clarity and purpose. In this episode, I interview Jim Kleiber, a leader in helping people do just that. Jim has quite a few inspiring stories to share, and […]

Mapping the inner journey. Mindful reflection. Developing awareness. Sharpening perception. These are some of the ways people refer to their writing practice. Is it true that journal-writing can be used as a kind of meditation? Jayde and I take turns with examples we have used, and share ways that have helped others. For example: incorporate […]

Recovering from pneumonia was precisely the reminder I needed to breathe deeply, and move forward on my most important projects in a steady, self-compassionate pace. Before then, I had been burning the candle at both ends, pushing myself to work harder, faster and smarter than ever. Now that I’m healthy and getting back into my […]

It seems like every subject in school is requiring students to keep a “journal” for enhanced learning. My first reaction to this awareness was happy. But I wonder whether students can be truly honest, while they are also hoping their teachers will award them a good grade? Doesn’t this violate some of the defining characteristics of […]

Here’s a short episode to share that I’m feeling much better, and on the mend! Sarabelle Prince, a colleague of mine through the Center for Journal Therapy, shared a very unusual cold remedy with me, which worked wonders. She also shares a great opportunity to take part in a summer Journal Camp. (JournalTalk, Episode #55, May 12, 2015) Subscribe to […]

Joyce asked a beautiful journaling question: “How can I write in my journal in a way that I’ll enjoy re-reading my entries in years to come?” Seasoned journal-writers know that there’s a treasure chest full of good reasons to go back and re-read past journal entries. But often those gems of wisdom are hard to locate among […]

What’s the connection between the mind and the body when it comes to writing? How might moving our bodies affect the way we feel, think, and express ourselves through language? JournalTalk listeners are in for a treat this week. Elizabeth Schwyzer, freelance writer, newspaper arts editor, and dance critic, shares a special exercise in this […]

Carol from New Zealand asks “What do I do with the guilty feelings I get when I stop journaling?” It might be easy to quip, “Just process those feelings in your next journal entry,” but often, the shame is accompanied by unrealistic hopes of “catching up,” and then we avoid journaling altogether. Jayde Gilmore and I both relate […]

Does keeping a journal encumber your vacation, or enhance it? Lavinia Spalding agrees wholeheartedly that journaling on vacation deepens one’s travel experience. But because we understand the inherent challenges, we offer simple, practical tips for travel journaling without feeling like you’re missing the boat. Lavinia Spalding is the author of Writing Away, A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler (named one of the best […]

Today’s question from Mark is one of terminology. What do you call a person who helps others achieve new insights and accomplishments, using the power of journal-writing? Is it a Journal Coach? or a Journal Therapist? We could have also discussed the role of Journal Facilitator (which I am currently studying at The Center for […]

As soon as I bought her book, “Getting Real“, I knew I wanted to invite Dr. Susan Campbell to be a guest on JournalTalk. I’ve often shared that the one thing you need for a healthy journal-writing habit — far more important than whether you type or handwrite, or whether you write daily or just sporadically — […]

By far, Tom has sent in the toughest journaling question I’ve been called upon to answer. You can even hear my subtle attempts to avoid it. With co-host Jayde Gilmore, I wandered into the wilderness of related side-conversations: Grief, gratitude, trance writing, loving-what-is, depression, and comparing the various levels of journal certification to reiki! We may have even stumbled over the inspiration for […]