A show about creativity, trying new things, taking risks, and living the life you want to live. With each episode I hope you leave with ideas and options, not obligations and overwhelm.
A special re-airing of an episode from the first season of So Why Not? all about my husband, Julio Soler. I admire and appreciate so much about him and this episode highlights how when he sets his mind to something, he is so determined to figure it out. I hope you enjoy getting to know more about him. Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Original episode: Ep. 9: So why not... leave everything you know behind? (with Julio Soler)
Do you really love where you live? Have you lived in the same place all your life or are you more of a nomad? Do you truly have a place to call home? Or maybe you feel like you don't quite fit in where you live. Whether you have lived in the same spot for 30 years or have moved every year for the last decade, there is almost always a way to feel more connection to the place you currently call home. This episode is inspired by the book “This Is Where You Belong: The Art and Science of Loving the Place You Live” by Melody Warnick Other episodes referenced: Episode 48: So why not… make friends as an adult? (with Jenna of @myfriendjenna) Episode 51: So why not… work for the National Park Service? (with Anna Blalock) Episode page (full transcript and links) Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Have you ever visited a National Park in the United States? Maybe you've been to several. Or maybe it's your goal to visit them all. In this episode I talked with Anna Blalock who works at a local National Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Anna has a fascinating story to tell about how she got her start with the National Park Service—one that I wouldn't have expected. And neither did she! Her love for National Parks is so evident in the role she has taken on and the opportunities she has pursued. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to consider what might lead you to take on this same type of adventurous spirit, whether pursuing visiting a new National Park or finding beauty all around you. Special thanks to Mike Theune (Public Affairs Officer) for coordinating this interview for us! Volunteer opportunities at Lake Mead National Recreation Area Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
This week's episode is an encore of a prior episode that keeps coming to mind. I've had this conversation with a few friends lately. They have an idea they've been thinking about. But they don't really know how to get past the planning stages. Or they're not sure if it'll really take off. This episode is the nudge you need to get your idea out of your head and out into the world. Book recommendations: Big Magic What Do You Do With an Idea? Miguel and the Grand Harmony Episode 8: So why not… find what works for you? (with Rachel Kiser Smith) Creative Mentorship with Miranda Anderson Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Are you the kind of person that gets so into reading a book that you can't put it down? Or someone that becomes so hooked on a page-turner that hours go by in a flash? This chat with Lauren of @laurensturningpages is a special treat for all of my fellow bibliophiles. In this episode of So Why Not?, Lauren shares her story of the value that books have brought to her life in countless ways. Lauren has so many fantastic ideas for incorporating reading into day to day life with numerous examples of how to make it happen. Whether you are aiming to read 100 books or to finish one book this year, there is something for everyone in this conversation. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to consider the impact that reading and literacy have made on your life. Follow Lauren on socials! @laurensturningpages on Instagram @laurensturningpages on TikTok See what I'm reading on Goodreads Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
If you're like a majority of American adults today, you may feel like it's difficult to make friends. We all have competing priorities and often it seems that friendship takes a back seat to other interests. From a detailed survey on friendships from the Survey Center on American Life in 2021, compared to results 30+ years ago in 1990, “Americans report having fewer close friendships than they once did, talking to their friends less often, and relying less on their friends for personal support.” In my conversation with Jenna, we take a big picture look at what it looks like to cultivate friendships as an adult. We talk about answers to all of the big questions: the who, what, when, where, why, and how. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to consider what the state of friendships are in your life. Why are they important to you? Is there anything different that you want to happen with your friendships? And what is keeping you from getting there? Follow Jenna on socials! @myfriendjenna on Instagram @myfriendjenna on TikTok Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page References: NYT: How to make, and keep, friends as an adult The State of American Friendship: Change, Challenges, and Loss. Findings from the May 2021 American Perspectives Survey Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health (Mayo Clinic)
My friend Emily is the mother of Kaleb, who is 7 years old as of this episode's air date. Kaleb has autism and Emily has so graciously offered to discuss her experience as a mother and caregiver of a child with autism. I admire so much about Emily and am in awe of how fiercely she advocates for her son. I appreciate the patience she elicits in describing the journey that she and her family have been on. As of this year in 2023, it is estimated that 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It is very likely that you may know someone who has autism or their loved one. As you listen to this discussion, I invite you to consider what it really looks like to cultivate inclusion in your life and to realize that our differences, like neurodivergency, are just that: different; a neutral fact that makes us all unique. Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
How much have you heard about the enneagram? Do you know what the numbers mean? Do you know your type? In this episode, I chatted with Melissa Englebright, a certified enneagram coach, about her journey with the enneagram, from frustration to now helping others benefit from it as well. Follow @melissaenglebright on Instagram Listen to 9 Paths to Zion Book recommendations: The Road Back to You The Wisdom of the Enneagram The Enneagram: 9 Gateways to Presence (audiobook) Podcasts: The Enneagram Journey Enneagram 2.0 Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
Do you know your love language? Or if you're in a relationship, do you know your partner's? (P.S. by the way, food is not a love language.) This episode covers some pros and cons of knowing your and/or your partner's love language as well as some key takeaways to consider. 5 Love Languages Quiz 5 Love Languages Book It Isn't About Your Love Language; It's About Your Partner's My Love Language Is Silent Condescension Speaking Your Partner's Love Language May Not Matter Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Visit my website: sowhynot.me Episode page
This episode is an update on the future of the podcast and some ideas for making a game plan for your life. Make a game plan: -get a coach -implement your playbook -rely on your teammates -be ready to take on the defense -review the play -take a timeout when you need it Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Book recommendation: Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
Do you ever feel stuck in the same routine? What would it take to shake things up? What's holding you back from trying something new? This episode covers common reactions to trying new things, what can hold us back, and the benefits of trying new things. I'll also go through my list of goals for trying new things this year. Episode page Other episodes to enjoy: Ep. 30: So why not... try something new with your New Year's resolutions? Ep. 39: So why not... intentionally celebrate a milestone? Book recommendation: "The Light We Carry" by Michelle Obama Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Do you know that feeling you have when you start something new and you just can't get it off your mind? You're going about your day but it's always at the forefront of your thoughts. Or possibly you're still in the planning stages and weighing out your options. Or maybe you haven't quite found that thing yet. And that's ok. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to consider what it would look like to pursue the thing that you can't stop thinking about in your life. Make sure to check out @known_jewelry on Instagram Shop Known Jewelry on Etsy Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
What do you think about the terminology around having a “green thumb”? Do you have one? Is that really even a thing? Do plants effortlessly grow and thrive in your presence or are they immediately cursed to a brief lifespan of certain tragedy upon crossing your path? In this episode, I talked with my friend Claudia about her love for plants. We'll talk about the ins and outs of caring for plants themselves in addition to some very interesting parallels connecting to deeper meanings in life. Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
When you see a shocking post on social media, how do you initially react? What factors into your reaction? Do you consider who posted the information? Do you consider where the information originally came from? What are your next steps? This episode breaks down all of the types of information you may interact with online as well as concrete steps you can take (and to have discussions about with others) to prevent the spread of false information. Find the full transcript and links to sources: Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Move over New Year's resolutions. If you could look back on celebrating a milestone intentionally, what would you want to remember? How could you reframe commemorating a big moment in your life as an intentional time period in addition to that instance? This episode is a recap of documenting the months leading up to a milestone birthday this year by writing a list of 35 things to do before turning 35. What would you add to your list? What would you include in your experiences? Episode page
In this episode I talked with my cousin, Mandi Boyd, about her career in education. Mandi has taught in secondary education and has undoubtedly impacted the lives of countless students. As you listen, I invite you to consider the impact that education and teachers have made on your life and to think about ways you can make an impact in your own community as well. Gallup poll: teacher burnout NCES: increased teacher vacancies Books: The Growth Mindset Grit Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
Do you take the time to really slow down and notice the beauty around you? How will you remember a smile? A little curl? A freckle pattern on a scrunched nose? In this episode I talked with Amy Rau about her career in portrait photography and taking the time to recognize the beauty all around us. amyrauphotography.com Follow @amyrauphotography on Instagram Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast
Welcome back to season 2 of So Why Not? Podcast. This is such an exciting episode to start back with after a break. In this episode I talked to Racheal Jackson of @banyanbridges about the unexpected paths she has traveled to become the bold muralist she is today. Her story is so inspiring and I left the conversation with so many takeaways for ideas I can implement in my own life. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to consider ways that you can try to be more bold in life and invite the opportunity to grow through these decisions. Check out Racheal's beautiful artwork: @banyanbridges on Instagram banyanbridges.com Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
What makes you like the things you like? What makes one thing better than the other? Can taste be objective? This is a "just for fun" episode about creating a taste test. It might just be your new favorite social experiment. The Deliciously Surprising Science of Taste (Wired) @femalefoodie Potato Chip Taste Test @femalefoodie vanilla ice cream taste test Episode page **This is where to get your free download of the taste test score card we used at the bottom of the post** Follow me on Instagram @sowhynot.podcast
So what do you do exactly? This episode features questions for YOU to consider for the who, what, when, why, and how you want to do things. Find fulfillment in life by doing the things that make you a whole, complete individual. Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Episode page
Do you know your love language? Or if you're in a relationship, do you know your partner's? (P.S. by the way, food is not a love language.) This episode covers some pros and cons of knowing your and/or your partner's love language as well as some key takeaways to consider. 5 Love Languages Quiz 5 Love Languages Book It Isn't About Your Love Language; It's About Your Partner's My Love Language Is Silent Condescension Speaking Your Partner's Love Language May Not Matter Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram Visit my website: sowhynot.me Episode page
When there never seems to be enough time to do everything you want to do, what makes it on your priority list? Is your health and wellness at the top or does it fall off when there are so many competitors on the list? In this episode, you'll hear a discussion with Dawn Metz Andrews about how fitness has played a priority role in her life in so many different ways. While listening to this episode, I invite you to consider what works for you and what you enjoy in terms of fitness. Make sure to check out CrossFit Jax Beach Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Have you ever had an idea that you just couldn't shake? That nagging feeling that you couldn't get out of your mind. Maybe you ignore it. You might even think of an easier way. But it just keeps coming back to you. In this episode, I talked with Nicole Nesselhauf about her family's experience with international adoption. As you listen to this episode, I hope you'll consider something you've felt called to do and what it would take to make it happen. Episode page Follow @sowhynot.podcast on Instagram
Do you set New Year's resolutions every year only to add most of the same ones back to your list over and over? Or maybe you don't even set resolutions. Maybe still, you're part of the teeny tiny percentage of adults that can actually stick to them all year long. Good for you! This episode features ideas for trying something new or different with how you set resolutions and ways to make them successful. Ideas for what types of resolutions you could set Word of the year Episode page
What is a cause that you feel strongly about? What have you done or are you doing that can help make things better with this cause? Will you become more involved "one day" in the future when your life is a little more stable? Or is there something you can do today to get involved? I talked with Kaley Eggers in this episode about her role as a foster parent and through becoming an adoptive parent. I admire her for being willing to be such a resource and how she took immediate action when she saw a need. Follow more of Kaley's story on Instagram: @kaleyeggers Read her article about paid leave for foster parents in The Washington Post Follow along with the podcast on Instagram: @sowhynot.podcast Episode page
If you had the chance to make your dream into a reality, would you be willing to let the safety net go and take a leap of faith? During this conversation with talented artist Nika Leverett, we talk about what that can look like and the hard work it takes to make that happen. Make sure to check out Nika's beautiful artwork on all of her social media channels: TikTok Instagram Facebook YouTube And her website: nikaleverett.com Follow along with So Why Not? Podcast on Instagram: @sowhynot.podcast Episode page
Have you ever had an idea that you thought: Oh, no. I cannot let other people know about this idea. They won't think it's any good. They'll think it's weird. They'll think *I'm* weird. I have to keep this to myself.? What if you were brave enough to put it out into the world? In this episode, we'll dive into how framing thoughts around ideas and inspiration can make them a little more magical. Books: Big Magic What Do You Do With an Idea? Miguel and the Grand Harmony Instagram: @sowhynot.podcast Episode page
Are you a goal setter? I'm not a fan of New Year's resolutions but I'm always thinking of what I want to accomplish. What if you decided to shoot for the stars? What if you decided that you are not limited? That you are capable of big things. What if you let doubt and fear go? Where would you land? Instagram Episode page
What is there in your life that you really love? Is it something that panned out as your career too? Or maybe a hobby? Or a creative project? As you listen to this interview, I invite you to consider what it is that lights you up. What do you get so excited about that you love to share with others? And how does that thing help you be more of yourself in the process? Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaeldoesdisney Learn more about Give Kids the World Village Donate to Michael's fundraiser for GKTW Follow @sowhynot.podcast Episode page
Do you have a bucket list? Or some kind of mental list of things you want to do? Sometimes the easier answer is to just say "no" and put it off for "one day" in the future. But when is "one day"? In this episode we discuss what can happen when you say "yes" to something you've always dreamed of doing. Check out Mayra's Instagram to see all of her beautiful pictures: @mayrajanice Make sure to follow @sowhynot.podcast Episode page
Did birthdays stop being a big deal after childhood? Do you have too much going on in your life to take time to celebrate you? I invite you to consider what lights you up for your next birthday with some of these ideas. Find a huge list of discounts and freebies for your birthday Episode page
Do you ever get caught in the comparison trap wondering how everyone else gets so much done and you're falling more and more behind? It may seem like it but no one can do it all. But there are ways to do things better or time to know when it's time to think about doing things differently. In this episode I cover what goes into planning out my schedule. P-L-A-N-S Links: 4 Reasons Writing Things Down on Paper Still Reigns Supreme Live Free Creative Minimal Meal Plans Episode page
What's your first reaction when you're faced with an intimidating project or idea? Do you avoid it or procrastinate getting started? Or do you jump in head first and learn all you can? This episode is all about going for it. We talk about learning new things, starting a business, evaluating when it's time for a change, and finding your people to grow even more. @rachelsblockparty on Instagram www.rachelsblockparty.com Episode page: http://sowhynot.me/episode-21-so-why-not-dive-into-what-intimidates-you-with-rachel-barzee/
Who knew you could learn so many life lessons from an interview with an interior designer?! I always enjoy a story of hard work and ingenuity from a successful entrepreneur but we covered a wide range of topics in this interview outside of designing beautiful spaces. This is another episode with something for everyone. Make sure to check out Danaking.com. Episode page
Is there anything you are so passionate about that you would continue to pursue for decades even if you didn't see success? This episode features a story of unwavering dedication and persistence. I also include some recent FAQs about my job as a pharmacist in a pediatric hospital. The Daily Podcast episode NY Times Stat News CNN Carnegie Wired R naught
If you were faced with the opportunity to live in another country, would you take it? How exciting and adventurous that would be! In this episode, Holly Richards details her family's years in Europe, what she missed from the US, what they took away from their experiences, and what they miss about Europe now that they're back in the US.
In this episode I talked with writer and educator (and my aunt!) Karen George Aukema about how she took inspiration from her own life and wrote historical fiction books about a boy named Ashel. Karen gives valuable tips for getting started and what has been helpful for her. Whether you're interested in writing yourself or not, this episode highlights what it means to take an idea all the way from inspiration to fruition. Make sure to check out her website: karengaukema.com Ashel's Christmas Ashel's Spring
What sticks out in your mind that someone has done to make your day a little better? What is a seemingly small effort that you enjoy doing for others? Today's episode includes so many ideas that can help you take that extra step to do something for someone else. Some of my favorite ideas to send in the mail: Brightbox (make sure to listen for a discount code!) Jeni's Ice Cream Baked by Melissa The Bouqs Co. Check out The Simple Sunflower
If you see a celebrity or someone you admire or idolize, would you be brave enough to talk to them? Or do you feel like you're bothering them? I invited my husband back for this episode because when he's determined to meet someone famous, he makes it happen. No matter how uncomfortable or hesitant I may be! Ha! Listen for his tips and tricks and what his thought process is for talking to celebrities.
Who doesn't love a vacation?! In this episode I talk about why travel is important to me, some of my favorite travel memories, tips and tricks for what works well for us, and an invitation to consider what parts of travel you value in terms of importance and monetary worth. Southwest card referral Favorite travel and idea accounts: @lovetaza @busytoddler @themomtrotter @thepointsguy @nerdwallet @femalefoodie @sharonsaysso @thebucketlistfamily
I've admired Hayley's work through her Instagram account over the last few years so this was a big treat to get to learn more about the artist behind her beautiful lettering projects. Hayley is such a professional with amazing perspective on putting yourself out there to get what you want. Whether you consider yourself to be artistic or not, there's something for everyone in this episode. Be sure to check out her work. She's so talented! IG: @typeaffiliated www.typeaffiliated.com
Roddy breaks the mold of stereotypical truck drivers. You will be hard pressed to find someone as passionate and excited about their career as he is. He has traveled some winding roads (pun intended) to land him where he is today and he has a great story to tell. He also gives some insight into what is involved with driving a semi truck and helpful information for other drivers. Buckle up! This is another great episode!
In this episode I talk with Kara and Karlee of House of Turnberry about taking the idea of their business from just a thought all the way through to execution. They are a good time! I learned a lot about how they work so well together, why they love what they're doing, and even tips for being authentic on social media. Shop at houseofturnberry.com Instagram: @houseofturnberry
Have you ever considered why you participate in the same traditions over and over? Are you just going through the motions or are you being intentional with how you spend your time? In this episode we talk about what traditions mean, how we can choose the best ones for the stage of life we're in, and making the most of the time we have together. I invite you to contemplate your own traditions and what value they bring to your life during this episode.
This episode is all about my husband, Julio. I don't think that at 18 I could have packed up my belongings to move somewhere that I didn't know anyone and couldn't communicate. But I'm glad he did! Find out what it took to get him to move to the US, how we met, and how he couldn't have predicted how his life would look today.
This is a great interview with my friend, Rachel Kiser Smith. It's jam packed with ideas to motivate you to find what works for you in many aspects of your life. You're going to love her story, her insights, and her pointers for getting started. Instagram.com/rachelkisermith Craft the Rainbow instagram.com/rosieandbiff Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-8-so-why-not-find-what-works-for-you-with-rachel-kiser-smith/
In honor of Apraxia Awareness Month in May (and Apraxia Awareness Day on May 14), I'm sharing our story of my daughter's diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech. Learn more about apraxia from ASHA Helpful resources for apraxia (and to find a Walk for Apraxia in your area) via Apraxia Kids More videos of Izzy's progression on Instagram Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-7-so-why-not-get-a-second-or-sixth-opinion/
Have you ever tried a new hobby and thought, "Maybe I can turn this into a business."? In this episode we get into what it takes to make that happen. Check out http://www.roamingdruggist.com Follow Emily on social media: http://www.instagram.com/roamingdruggist http://www.facebook.com/roamingdruggist Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-6-so-why-not-turn-a-hobby-into-a-business-with-emily-owen/
Some parents describe having a child as losing themselves. Others may come to find their sense of self. Regardless, it's a big change with new and different priorities. Two big points before listening: (1) you don't have to be a parent to find helpful ideas from this episode and (2) I don't think that children prohibit pursuing your interests. Find Lacey on Instagram: @motherhoodmantras Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-5-so-why-not-prioritize-your-own-interests-as-a-parent-with-lacey-parr/
Do you have a dream job? What does that even look like? Would it still be a dream job when you finally "made it"? This episode is about creating the life you want to live. It's a great listen! Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-4-so-why-not-make-a-career-change-with-clay-george/
Do you ever feel like you're in a rut? Tired of the same old, same old? In this episode we'll talk about ten tips for finding inspiration when you get stuck or even if you don't know where to start. Show page: https://sowhynot.me/episode-3-so-why-not-find-some-inspiration/
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