Green Heart Living Podcast
What does someone do after a break from reality? Is it possible to cure mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder? On this episode, I talk with Neil McCarthy, author of "An Inspiring Recovery: How I Found Sanity." We talk about: - Mental health diagnosis - Navigating medication and treatment changes - Mindfulness, meditation, and living in the present - Music, writing, and other creative expression - The importance of community for writers For anyone who has faced a frightening diagnosis or a break with reality—or has had family or friends who have—you'll know how terrifying it can be and how powerless you can feel. Your life can seem to melt instantly. Neil's story is powerful and shows what it takes to get to and maintain a healthy space mentally and physically. More about the book: Nineteen-year-old Neil McCarthy had the world at his feet—an engineering major, athlete, and musician at Carnegie Mellon University—when he experienced a psychotic break during the summer after his sophomore year. This led him to embark on a decades-long journey to find a sense of belonging and an oasis of sanity from his mania, psychosis, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Neil left no stone unturned in his quest for sanity. Combining all the benefits of Western medicine with Eastern spirituality, naturopathic medicine, and a variety of therapies brought Neil much of the wellness he craved. Neil was soon hit with the reality that recovery would not be a simple process. Doctors changed. Diagnoses changed. Jobs changed. Insomnia was his foe for most of his adult life. But Neil persisted. Eventually, he realized that while medications could help mitigate his symptoms, the real healing had to come from within him. In his own words, “I did not need to hide from tasks that caused me pain. Instead, I met them head-on.” During his recovery, Neil encountered a variety of mental health treatments, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which furthered him down the path toward sanity. While focusing on the recovery process, this raw memoir chronicles Neil's thirty-year journey toward well-being. He has proved that it is not only possible to live a prosperous life with mental health challenges, but also to inspire others along the way. To learn more about the author: https://thelefthand.art/ To get a copy of the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1954493835/
On this episode, I talk with Virginia Evans, author of The Youngest Bee: A Louisiana Story of Sisterhood, Strength, and Alzheimer's. Coming of age in the late 1970s/early 1980s in Louisiana, Virginia Evans describes an idyllic childhood filled with summer camps, shopping trips, LSU football games, and her parents' annual elaborate Christmas parties. Virginia's world is shattered when her beloved father, Red, becomes seriously ill and passes away when she is just 24 years old. Reality sets in at his funeral as the “Youngest Bee” realizes that she is no longer the baby of the family. She takes on the responsibility of caring for her grieving, aging mother, Mildred. The Youngest Bee is more than just a story of determination triumphing over tragedy. It is a love story. The bond Virginia shares with her sisters, “The Four Bees,” and “finding laughter among the chaos” are what propelled them through their darkest days—from mental illness to cancer and dementia.
Hannah McKitrick and I talk about Italy, energy, and how to make your dream life (and business) possible. Feel stuck and need some clarity? Want to refresh and be taken care of? Ready for a well-being experience that will skyrocket your mindset, health, connection, and bank account? Join us on our retreat to Italy in November! Here is info on the retreat: https://myintuitivehealth.com/ceo-culinary-wellness-retreat/ To get in on the 8-week program for authors - which includes this magical retreat: https://www.greenheartliving.com/italy-retreat
Thinking of recording your own audiobook? In this 3-part series, we talk with Laura English, audiobook producer, narrator, editor, engineer, and owner of Evergreen Studios, about the things to consider when deciding whether or not to do an audiobook and how to go about it. On this third episode, we discuss: - Things to consider when narrating your own book - The benefits of recording your own story - The process of recording in a studio setting You can learn more about Laura English at: https://www.lauraenglishvo.com/
Thinking of turning your book into an audiobook? In this 3-part series, we talk with Laura English, audiobook producer, narrator, editor, engineer, and owner of Evergreen Studios, about the things to consider when deciding whether or not to do an audiobook and how to go about it. On this second episode, we discuss: - How to select a narrator for your audiobook - The process of working with a narrator - How to distribute your audiobook In part 3 we'll be discussing what to consider if you decide to record the audiobook yourself. You can learn more about Laura English at: https://www.lauraenglishvo.com/
Thinking of turning your book into an audiobook? In this 3-part series, we talk with Laura English, audiobook producer, narrator, editor and engineer, and owner of Evergreen Studios, about the things to consider when deciding whether or not to do an audiobook and how to go about it. On this first episode we look at: - Reasons to record an audiobook - Trends in the audiobook industry - How to decide whether to hire a narrator or record it yourself On part 2, we'll be discussing how to select and narrator and what distribution services to use, and part 3 we'll be discussing what to consider if you decide to record the audiobook yourself. You can learn more about Laura English at: https://www.lauraenglishvo.com/
Are you planning on writing a book in 2025? Making it easier, more fun, and more meaningful by joining one of my writing groups! In this episode, I share all the details of my two writing groups that will be kicking off March 1st: the Green Heart Writing Circle and the Abundant Author™ Mastermind. I also share a new, free bonus for anyone who has ever published with Green Heart Living Press. To learn more about the writing programs: https://www.greenheartliving.com/group-writing-programs
It feels more important than ever that we take action to make a difference - but what exactly are we supposed to do? What are we to do when we see injustice, war, or disaster? How do we keep going when we feel fear, anger, or grief over things we feel we have no control over? On this episode, I share 3 things to do right now to help you get through. On a global, national, and local level, we want to keep building the world we want to live in. These 3 tools will help you be part of making that possible. At 8:30, there is a Loving Kindness meditation to help you calm your mind so that you can care for yourself and stay in action toward good.
What do we do when faced with grief and loss? On this episode, I speak with Mary Bub, a grassroots activist, social innovator, photographer, artist, and author of several books, including the newly released "Letters to Betty: The Anatomy of One Woman's Grief." Reeling and numb after the death of her beloved husband Don, Mary Bub turned to writing to navigate the journey from grief and despair to healing and purpose. In "Letters to Betty," Bub describes how a metaphorical grief box and penning frequent notes to an imaginary recipient, “Betty”, helped her process her emotions and discover her new self in the year following Don's passing. Her raw, honest letters describe a path that began with anguish, sadness, and loneliness, and led her to a place of gratitude, calm, and courage. Reading Bub's letters is like talking to a close friend. They provide comfort and inspiration to others traveling through their own journey of loss. "Letters to Betty" is available in paperback and ebook on Amazon.
This episode will help you clear energy from 2024 and welcome in fresh, aligned energy for 2025. I share: my take on why New Year's Resolutions often tank early on my two key practices for reflecting on the previous year and getting clear on the new year how to honor our bodies, minds, and spirits for getting us through the past year how to make space for what's truly aligned and alive for us at this present moment (no matter what is going on around us) The guided meditation begins at 7:17. Enjoy!
Coco Madari helps creatives to overcome business challenges and build authentic, sustainable businesses. Coco is the host of the podcast Do Epic Shi*t and the author of a book of poetry entitled Whispers of a God. Her work emphasizes anti-capitalist practices and supports diverse voices. On this episode we talk about how: How anti-capitalist business practices prioritize people and community while embracing abundance. The importance of learning to navigate the unknown. How creatives can align their businesses with their personal values and needs. Learn more about Coco Madari here: https://linktr.ee/Doepicshit
Is 2025 the year you write and publish your book? If you are looking to make your dream of a book a reality, the Abundant Author™ Mastermind can help you turn your story into gold! This video goes through the details of this program. To learn more: https://www.greenheartliving.com/the-abundant-author To apply (and get your free publishing guide): https://www.greenheartliving.com/publish To set up a call with me: https://bit.ly/greenheartlivingconsult
A behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, losses, and hard choices women face as they juggle work, relationships, and motherhood. On this episode, I speak with author Lisa Printz Roday about her new book "Fingerprintz: One Woman's Journey Through Loss, Love, and Very Little Babies." The memoir begins with the sudden death of her forty-seven-year-old father. Rather than crush the twenty-one-year-old Printz Roday, it is the pivotal moment that sustains her in each new crisis she faces, including two harrowing preterm births. No matter where you are in your journey, this book will inspire you to stay the course to a place of light. The book is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook on Amazon. To learn more about the author: https://lisaprintzroday.com/
Shell Sawyer, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, mediator and Certified Divorce Coach, has written the essential guide for anyone facing—or considering—a divorce. The stories and experiences Shell shares can also be a real comfort for someone who has gone through a divorce in the past. You can thrive after divorce—and Shell shows you how in her new book "You Are Not Alone: Your Guide for When Divorce is on Your Doorstep." Learn more about Shell and her work: https://findingstrengthwithshell.com/
What can we do now to protect women's rights and to make our communities safe for all? In this episode, I talked with State Representative Jillian Gilchrest about her new book "Feminist Advocacy: Championing Gender and Social Justice." Jillian Gilchrest, MSW has 20 years of experience advocating for women's health and safety, and has been very successful in shifting policies that impact people's daily lives. In this podcast and in her book, we get to see what creating change looks like in real life and how we can take steps to play our part. www.feministadvocacy.com
Meghan Schelzi is bringing the work of Transformational Literacy into schools. Her vision? "Every child deserves the tools to be a successful and confident reader." On this episode, we talk about: Having the courage to follow your purpose The garage academy she created in the middle of the COVID-19 epidemic How to encourage reading and literacy skills in kids What supports teachers need to thrive You can learn more about Meghan and her work at: https://nextstepeducationtutoring.com
How can we heal what we would rather forget? Can we heal the trauma living in our bodies? Could our challenging life experiences be a guide toward our purpose? In this episode, I interview Maria Jefferson, trauma and relationship specialist, licensed professional counselor, and author of the new book, Path to Purpose: A Journey to Healing from Complex PTSD. In "Path to Purpose," she shares her personal experience with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and workplace trauma—and how she's navigated being the wife of an Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veteran with combat theater exposure. She also shares her parent's immigration story—including needing to flee their home country of Chile for their lives—and her recent travels there to uncover her past. She shows her path to healing the trauma that lived in her body and how you can navigate this path, too. Learn more at: https://purposepathct.com
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, fostering equity within organizations is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. In this episode, I interview Jenora Ledbetter about her new book, Centering Equity in Your Organization: A Guide to Building Bridges, Not Barriers, which provides a comprehensive roadmap for leaders and change-makers seeking to cultivate inclusive cultures that drive sustainable success. Through engaging storytelling and research-backed methodologies, Centering Equity in Your Organization challenges traditional paradigms and offers innovative approaches to address systemic barriers and promote fairness and justice within the workplace. Whether you're a seasoned executive, HR professional, or aspiring leader, this book will empower you to navigate complexities, leverage diversity as a strength, and create environments where every individual can thrive. To learn more: https://theselfcarenetwork.org
What if you could still have meaningful connections with your loved ones—even after an Alzheimer's diagnosis? On this episode I talk with John D. Scully, author of Visited Mom Today: Conversations through the Lens of Alzheimer's & Dementia. In his book, John shares the secret to connecting with those suffering from Alzheimer's/dementia. He had observed how staff interacted with his mom and the other residents in her memory care unit. He discovered that the connection lies in stepping into their world, instead of reminding them what is no longer possible in this one. John's conversations with dozens of residents will have you laughing out loud, tearing up, and reflecting on your own life experiences.
When we put our stories out there, we no longer have to carry them alone. The world carries them with us. Looking for a compassionate, creative community to write with? Having trouble getting your book written? Want to have more fun and connection in your life? My 9-week Green Heart Writing Circle will be starting in early September 2024. This episode covers all the details. To see all the details in writing: https://www.greenheartliving.com/writingcircle Don't let your story go unwritten! PS - Early Bird pricing available through August 31st.
Do the finances in your small business feel overwhelming and out of control? In this episode, I talk with Trish Maselli about how small business owners can take control of their money and find financial success. Her newly released book From Shoebox Accounting to Financial Success: 9 Strategies to Take Control Over Your Money is a must-read for small business owners. The book provides valuable info on business structure, understanding and minimizing taxes, and managing your business to increase profits. Trish Maselli, EA is an IRS Enrolled Agent and the owner of Clear Cut Accounting Services. She has worked with small business owners in different industries and helped them to obtain financial success. This book will show you how you can, too. The paperback and ebook are now available on Amazon. To learn more about Trish and her work: www.clearcutaccountingservices.com
Since she was a young child, Jackie Baldwin felt drawn to the water. In 2020, she set out on a course to segment-paddle the entire 410 miles of the Connecticut River from “source to sea.” On this journey, she has found healing and spiritual growth, and she shares this with us in this episode and in the pages of her new book, The Bend in the River. Her brave and engaging storytelling of her experiences of trauma, healing, and self-discovery are sure to inspire those on their travels toward “the bend in the river.” Her new book is available in ebook & paperback on Amazon. You can follow her source-to-sea journey (with her trusty companions Baxter & Lulu by her side) go to her IG: @CTRIVERPUPS
"Her final words were a promise I knew I had to keep. I have to tell the story...MY story." Author Daisy Plaza experienced trauma and violence in her home from a young age: abuse as a child, gang membership, and intimate partner violence. It was everywhere she turned. It was what she knew. Rather than letting this dampen her spirit, she used her experiences navigating trauma to help others on the front lines of the emergency room. In her newly released book I Did It for Her, Daisy shares how she was able to leave behind pain, trauma, and violence (including escaping a gang, an abusive marriage, and, even, a serial killer) - and focus on healing and showing her four children unconditional love and how to be strong no matter what the circumstances. I Did It for Her is now available in paperback and ebook on Amazon. Trigger warning: This podcast would be rated PG, but the book does include some graphic descriptions of violence. Its focus, however, is on how Daisy moved through these experiences, learned from them, and used her inner strength to leave this all behind so she could heal.
How far would you go to save your family? In this episode, I speak with author Teri Leonard Michaud about her newly released book Where Are All the Kids? Where Are All the Kids? reads like fiction but is based on a true story - that of Teri's own family. Set in 1958, when women had limited opportunities and independence, Teri's mother battled to keep her large Catholic family together, despite her husband's rampant alcoholism. Together, we talk about what it was like to write a story so close to home, tips for writers, and the healing available through writing. Where Are All the Kids? published by Green Heart Living Press and is available in paperback and ebook on Amazon.
Yes, there are lots of things you can do to make your home a cozy, productive, retreat-like environment, but sometimes, you just need to get out of dodge! In this episode, I talk about some of the benefits of writing retreats - and a creative way I got to create my own writing retreat experience - for free! I'd love to hear of any DIY Writing Retreats you may have done! Please share!
"Social workers can't make money!" Ever heard that? On this episode, I spoke with financial therapist and bestselling author LaQueshia Clemons, LCSW, AFC about some of the myths surrounding money, financial wellness, and the social work profession. We discuss: - the field of financial therapy - guilt and shame around money and debt - the versatility of MSW and MFT degrees - how therapists and counselors can diversify their income streams - the motivations behind spending LaQueshia is the author of It's More than Just a Budget: A Guided Financial Wellness Journal and co-author of Living Your Optimal Life. Both titles are available on Amazon. To learn more about LaQueshia: https://freedomlifetherapy.com
What does it mean to be a man? A father? A husband? What does it look like to fully embrace your role as a father? Liz interviews Edwin Aristor, father, husband, mentor, mental health advocate, and co-author of the recently released "The Expanding Man Chronicles." Edwin vulnerably shares his healing journey to discovering what it means to step into fatherhood - even when he had lost his father at the early age of 3.
In this guided writing meditation, you will: honor the experiences of the Winter season tune into the body, mind, and heart get curious about the energy that you desire this Spring welcome this new energy in
On today's podcast, I speak with Jen Madrone, bestselling author of the newly released UpRising: Surviving and Thriving in a World that is Waking Up. As a spiritual teacher, sound healer, reiki master, and bodyworker, Jen has been guiding others through the processes of healing and transformation for over 20 years. Jen has been able to shepherd many through the process of spiritual awakening. Her new book shares: the stages of awakening the symptoms you might experience the catalysts that ignite the process the higher purpose of the pain and the tools and techniques to move through this inner revolution On the podcast, we share what inspired her to write, tips and guidance for authors and healers, and the most important message that those who are going through a spiritual awakening are most definitely not alone. The paperback and ebook are available on Amazon. You can connect with Jen at www.jenmadrone.com
Do you cringe at the idea of book marketing? There are a million gazillion things that many marketers will tell you you "should" be doing to market your book. No wonder so many writers feel overwhelmed and icky about book marketing! Book marketing does NOT have to feel cringy or icky. If you are doing marketing that aligns with your Abundant Author Archetype, it can feel fun, light, and easy. It might not even feel like "marketing" at all! In this episode, we go over the 8 Abundant Author Archetypes - along with specific examples of bestselling authors rocking out each one - so you can learn how to increase your income and impact through book sales in a way that feels aligned for you.
What is the heart of your message? In this episode, we cut through all of the confusion and overwhelm that can come with deciding on a book idea, and get right down to the heart of your message. For additional guidance on this topic: https://www.greenheartliving.com/findtheheart
"You can't plan an optimal life, but you can choose it, one awareness at a time." - Robin Mayberry On this episode, I talked with Robin Mayberry, BodyTalk practictioner™, transformational coach, and co-author of the bestselling book Live Your Optimal Life. Her chapter "Your Body is an Oracle" explores how we can cultivate a relationship with our body and learn to listen to its messages, so we can live "an abundant life in an easy body." Robin did this herself, by transforming her decades-long dysmorphia, eating disorders, and substance abuse through restoring her relationship with her body. Now she helps others do the same.
Courage. Adventure. Authenticity. Heart. These are the words I think of when I think of Pan Tang. On this episode, I talked with best-selling author and coach Pan Tang Hang about her new book, "Unapologetically ENFP" and what living an aligned life can make possible.
Are the holidays lighting you up or dragging you down? Tune into some sacred downtime with this meditation. Recorded on this darkest day of the year, it is perfect to listen to on the Winter Solstice and any day leading up to the New Year. Let's honor both the light and darkness - and invite more light in with each day.
If you viewed life as an adventure, how would that change your life? On this episode, I talked with best-selling author and coach Davidson Hang about his new book, "Unapologetically ENFP." With his heart-led leadership, creativity, and way of bringing fun into everything he does, Davidson has gathered over a million followers across social platforms, with over 700K on YouTube alone. This episode is a must-listen for any ENFP (and those who love them!)
Dr. Vilma Luz Cabán has spent a lifetime using her voice to advocate for equity for women and children. Her story is amazing - starting in tenements in New York City suffering domestic violence as a child and leading to her traveling to Africa, Asia, and different places in Latin America to be the voice of battered women and children. On this episode, we talk about her best-selling book The Heart of an Advocate, published by Green Heart Living Press. I am very blessed to be part of sharing Vilma's story and to be part of honoring her rich heritage during National Hispanic Heritage Month. www.vilmaluzcaban.com
Can someone let go of a cycle of violence to choose Peace - even when faced with the unthinkable? In this episode, I speak with Iran Nazario, peace advocate and founder of the Peace Center of Connecticut. In his new book Rage to Peace, Iran has poured his heart and life out onto the page, all for the purpose of furthering his mission of Peace. Rage to Peace is Iran's story of growing from a wounded child living on the streets of Hartford, to becoming a gang member, and his ultimate transformation into a community leader and Peacemaker. To learn more: www.nazariomotivation.com
So, you've had a spiritual awakening... now what? On this episode, I talk with spiritual therapist and best-selling author Michelle Pellin, MS, MA, LPC about the signs of a spiritual awakening - and what the heck to do about it! Michelle is a certified trauma-informed therapist in the traditional sense, as well as a Reiki master, ghost worker, psychic medium, and a student of the magical arts. Seamlessly blending traditional education and knowledge with her ability to tap into higher powers and spirit, she has crafted a guide to help you ascend to your own higher self: So You've Had a Spiritual Awakening, Now What? The Layman's Guide to Opening Up Your Psychic Gifts. In her new book, you will find personal stories of transformation, concrete examples of how to tap into your own spiritual power, and simple yet profound exercises to begin a spiritual practice that will heal and transform. Learn more about Michelle here: https://spiritualtherapywithmichelle.com/
On this episode, I talk with Angela Taylor George, founder of trend-setting, multi-brand showroom Times Two and renowned New York label Alice & Trixie. Angela is an entrepreneur, fashion designer, creative director, and author of the book Haute Pursuit: A True Tale of Fashion, Fortune, and Fierce Ambition in New York City. Hailed early on as the Voice of Authority by New York Daily News, Angela has made an indelible mark on fashion internationally over four decades, playing a vital role in the co-creation and launch of major fashion trends widely copied today and originating designs still cherished and traded around the world. You can learn more about her here: www.angelataylorgeorge.com
What does it take to create the life of your dreams? In this episode, I interview Angelika Kilian, model, actress, MANIFESTING QUEEN, mother, and author of the best-selling book You Can Have it All. To learn more about Angelika and to purchase her book: https://www.angelikakilian.com/
Does something in your life feel out of sync? This guided writing meditation will help you clear out the things that are no longer working for you, envision a better future, and find the next step forward. A few minutes of centering will help you write (and right!) your life.
Are you interested in turning your book into an audiobook? Ryan Hall, author, coach, and publisher at Royal Hearts Media, has just recorded and published his most recent book "Mining For My Voice" in audiobook form. Ont his episode we talk together about the power of recording your own audio for your book - and what things to consider when doing so.
Why is anxiety so pervasive in our society? And is there a way to cure it? On this episode, I talk with Gina Herd, author of the best-selling book: "Anxiety: Curing the New Normal." Gina is a licensed therapist with 20 years of experience helping clients get to the root of their anxiety - so they can find relief and inner peace. Her new book outlines the treatment for anxiety - and explains why it has become so normalized today.
We talk with Saundra Goldman about how to tune into your intuition, write with Source, and reclaim your inner authority through writing. Saundra is the founder of the Writer's Sanctuary, a writer, and a Certified Sourced Leader. "Reclaim your inner authority, write in alignment with who you are, guided by your deepest knowing." - Saundra Goldman
In this live author reading, we hear two amazing women reading selections from their books-in-process on the themes of relationships and intimacy. Brittany Quagan is a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Coach specializing in trauma and EMDR, author of the Ren series for Young Adults, and co-author of "The Great Pause" and "Be the Beacon." Brittany reads an excerpt from her soon-to-be-released book "How to Get into an Abusive Relationship." (Wink wink, nudge nudge, you might just to discover how to have healthy, more fabulous relationships.) Mary Campbell, intimacy coach and ordained spiritual mentor and co-author of "Be the Beacon" reads from her chapter entitled "Coming Alive Again" from her upcoming book "The Pleasure Playbook." Both authors are part of the Green Heart Writing Circle, which gives authors a platform to heal, create, and grow through writing and sharing their stories.
Do you find yourself not writing? Or resisting taking the final steps needed to get your creative projects completed and out into the world? Lisa Dunford Dickman, transformational coach, writer, traveler, and creative, shares a new way to approach resistance. What if resistance doesn't need to be something wrong - or something to conquer? What if it could be something that's helped us along the way? And something worthy of our love and appreciation?
Thank you to everyone who has been with me through this journey of becoming an author, writing coach, publisher, and podcast host. Thank you to everyone who has appeared on the show and who has listened. Celebrate the 100th episode with me!!!
What does it take to get into the college of your dreams? Why is branding important to teens? What part does social media play in college admissions? Stacey Ross Cohen, author of "Brand Up: The Ultimate Playbook for College & Career Success in the Digital World" and "Winning the College Admissions Game" shares some of her helpful wisdom for teens. The tools laid out in her books make the path easier for teens during this often high-stress, high-stakes time in their lives.
What makes a lesbian? And what happens when you are raised in an environment where your very identity is "not an option"? On this episode, I talk with author Paula Schorr about her newly released book "Beneath the Surface" and her experiences of coming of age in the 60s and 70s in a family of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
On today's episode, we welcome Spring with talk of apothecaries, mushrooms, and sacred soul alignment. Kristy Scott and I geek out together over our love of plants, animals, and the healing, magical power of reconnecting with the earth. To learn more about Kristy: https://www.krystallineearthhealing.com/
How can authors use media to grow their brand? How can you get on podcasts and get into print media? What can you do to prepare for becoming more visible? In this episode, which is an excerpt from our monthly Writers' Hive Mastermind, we get the pleasure of learning from Bridget Sicsko. Bridget is a founder of Visibility on Purpose, the podcast host of She Who Builds Empires, and the CEO of Exhaulted Publishing House.