Podcasts about inspiring joy

Send us a textHave you made your 2025 sustainability resolutions? This week we talk with Andrea McGimsey, Executive Director of Sustainability Matters, about the innovative ways her organization is transforming environmental education and conservation. Discover how they are making nature accessible and engaging for all, while empowering the next generation of scientists and environmental stewards.In this episode, Andrea shares her journey from her Virginia roots to leading Sustainability Matters, an organization dedicated to environmental stewardship and education. We discuss the transformative Making Trash Bloom project, which turns landfills into wildlife habitats, and community events like Native Meadow seeding parties that connect people of all ages with nature. The episode highlights Sustainability Matters' educational programs, including EcologicGALS, which inspires young girls to pursue science careers through mentorship. We also discuss strategies for collaborative problem-solving, inviting YOU to engage with Sustainability Matters as you make your New Year's resolutions.Plus you will want to follow Sustainability Matters on  Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn  for short doses of practical advice for upping your sustainability game and making and keeping effective resolutions!Timestamps:1:01: Why Sustainability Matters – Andrea's journey and mission11:24: Exploring Sustainability Matters Education Programs – Innovative curricula for schools and families17:48: Connecting Communities and Nature for Conservation – Finding common values and collaborative solutions21:19: Picture Book Connections24:35 Inspiring Joy and Sustainability through future projectsLinks:Visit Sustainability Matters for more information on their projects and events.Check out Dr. Diane's and Andrea's recommended STEAM picture books from this episode: Michael Recycle, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, In Our Garden, and The Last Straw: Kids Versus Plastics.What are your New Year's sustainability resolutions? Share them in the comments.Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

What if discovering joy in your passion could transform your greatest challenges into your most remarkable triumphs? Join us for a heartwarming and truly inspirational chat with Annie Brooks, a phenomenal athlete who turned her epilepsy diagnosis into a driving force for competing in triathlons, eventually conquering the Ironman World Championships in Kona. We explore the power of resilience, the importance of mental fortitude, and the sheer joy of racing that can turn daunting obstacles into stepping stones for personal growth and achievement.Ever faced the hilarious dilemma of hosting a barbecue without the essentials like outdoor seating or a grill? As we recount our own adventures in shifting a neighborhood party to a neighbor's better-equipped backyard, we navigate the humorous complexities of meal planning influenced by my wife's dietary preferences and the social intricacies of contributing healthy options. The conversation shifts to the simple but profound joy of birthday celebrations, reflecting on personal milestones, the significance of birthday wishes, and the quirky fears of jinxing good fortune.Training for a triathlon is tough; managing epilepsy alongside it is a whole new level of challenge. Annie Brooks shares her journey of balancing rigorous training schedules with health management, highlighting the importance of mindfulness, recovery, and the supportive role of her husband-coach. From overcoming mechanical issues during races to the camaraderie found in endurance events, this episode is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. We also provide practical tips for running in hot weather and emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and safe. Tune in for a motivational episode brimming with heartwarming stories, practical advice, and the small moments that make endurance sports so special.Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Let Registered Dietitian Carissa Galloway lead you through a science-backed plan to transform the way you think about your diet.Visit www.GallowayCourse.com and use the code PODCAST at checkout for a great discount!Become a 321 Go! Supporter. Help us continue to create! HEREJoin Customized + over a $500 discount! HERE you get- 6 Months of Customized Training 6 Months of Healthier U chats 30-day Summer Nutrition Shake Up Follow us! @321GoPodcast @carissa_gway @pelkman19Email us 321GoPodcast@gmail.comOrder Carissa's New Book - Run Walk EatImprove sleep, boost recovery and perform at your best with PILLAR's range of magnesium recovery supplements. Use code 321GO at www.theFeed.com to get 15% off Let Sara Akers with RunsOnMagic plan your next runDisney weekend! IG @runsonmagic or you can go to www.RUNSONMAGIC.com or email her ...

I have a friend who just celebrated his 100th birthday. He was a bombadier during World War II. He is in great physical ad mental health, has written a play about his experiences and is trying to cast that play at the senior residence he considers home. This got me wondering if there was a way that more of us could live well into old age, so I called on Noelle Nelson, PhD author of “The Longevity Secret, How to Live Happy, Healthy & Vibrant Into Your 70s, 80s, 90s and Beyond” for the answer. Noelle has appeared on national and international radio, television and podcasts including CBS's “The Early Show,” ABC's “The View,” and CNN. She has been interviewed, quoted or written about in such diverse media as Parade,” “Living to 100 Club” Podcast, Inc., People, Woman's World, UpJourney and the Stories of Inspiring Joy. Dr. Nelson holds advanced degrees in clinical psychology from the United States International University, and sociology degrees from the University of California at Los Angeles and the Sorbonne in Paris, France. Noelle and i talked about the secret to living well and the one word that sums up her findings. To learn the secret, tune into this podcast.

This week on The Good News, 3rd Grader Adi Guerrero taught us about National Inspiring Joy Day. 

Podcast host Kathleen Johnson and guest Sheila Moore discuss why it is so important to live life joyfully and keep moving. Sheila's outgoing personality and positive outlook inspire many visitors and members at the Tuscarawas County YMCA. She can often be found in the Y lobby sharing a friendly smile and conversation with old and new friends. Her Y story will inspire you to choose joy in your everyday life no matter the circumstances and to make the Y part of your life.www.tuscymca.org

Sydney Weiss is a lawyer and the creator, host, and producer of Seek The Joy Podcast and Stories of Inspiring Joy. Over the last five years, Sydney has sat down with thought leaders in health, wellness, mindfulness and beyond for empowering conversations and heartfelt storytelling on all things self-love, joy, connection, empowerment and wellness. In today's episode, Sydney shares her journey - from launching Seek The Joy Podcast in 2017 out of a desire for greater connection and community and Stories of Inspiring Joy - to where she is today and what's next. It's our final episode of Stories of Inspiring Joy, and you're not going to want to miss it. Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Dr. Lindsay Weisner is a clinical Psychologist in Long Island, New York. She graduated from Georgetown University in 1999 and was awarded a fellowship in child development at the NIH/NICHD. She received her doctorate from C.W. Post, LIU, and went on to pursue post-doctorate training at the American Institute of Psychoanalysis. Dr. Lindsay is the host of the Neurotic Nourishment Podcast and the co-author of the upcoming book Ten Steps To Finding Happy. This book will be released on March 20, 2020, in accordance with the United Nations International Day of Happiness.  In this week's story, Lindsay shares her journey becoming a psychologist and writer, through the lens of her love for words and storytelling. She shares the impact that reading at a young age had on her life, and how her love for words propelled her to become an author, podcaster, and clinical psychologist. Books, and her love for reading, got her out of her own head and her own home. But - she didn't love choose your own ending books! For her, there was nothing more annoying, she wanted hard and concrete facts. Lindsay's home growing up, despite being perfect on paper, lacked a fine line between truth and fiction. You'll hear it in this week's episode, her experiences as a child and teenager impacted her need for a beginning, middle, and end - both in books, and in life. Dr. Lindsay fell in love with psychology in college, and combined with her love of writing, she pursued a career in journalism. In this week's new episode she shares the rejections she received, how she dealt with it, and the first job she landed after college. You'll laugh her story about beanie babies . . . trust me. To learn more about Lindsay and her work visit her on Instagram @PsychShrinkMom on Twitter @LindsaySKallen and Facebook @LindsaySKallen and you can find the Neurotic Nourishment Podcast on Instagram @NeuroticNourishment and on Apple Podcasts here and for more about her upcoming book, Ten Steps To Finding Happy, you can learn more on Facebook at Finding Happy and on Instagram @10StepsFindingHappy Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Leah Recor is the author of “Where the Light Is… A Parent's Guide to the Law of Attraction,” and a mother of two young girls who turned personal traumatic experiences into her mission to help other struggling parents.  In this week's new episode Leah shares her journey in finding the law of attraction, and how she's relied on optimism as a floatation device to keep her going. Leah's reflections on how she began to see the struggles in her life as a gift to expand and grow will remind you that there is always a larger (and often hidden!) message in our experiences. Her words on the new sense of hope she found, and the signs and serendipities that began to show up for her and her children, will remind you of the magic that's here waiting for us to wake up to it. To connect with Leah and to learn more about her work visit her website www.theAbundantParent.com and connect with her on Instagram @theabundantparent Facebook @theabundantparent Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Eda Schottenstein is the founder and CEO of Multi-Role Woman™, a personal wellness and lifestyle brand that supports women in creating healthy, happy, balanced lives. She is also the author of “You Got This: 21-Day Mental Wealth Challenge” — a step-by-step action guide and journal anyone can use to transform their experience of personal wellness in just three weeks. In this week's new episode Eda shares her about her passion and her journey. She openly shares about her ADD diagnosis, the times she's been riddled with self-doubt, and this overarching feeling that she didn't have what it takes to reach her goals and potentials. It wasn't an easy mindset to live in, and it took a lot of soul searching for Eda to realize that the only person that was responsible for change in her life - was her! She did the work, research, and dove in - and it all led her to building her own unique toolkit for change. She amassed a wealth of knowledge that she knew was life-changing, and she knew she had to share it. Eda recognized how important it is to have tools and tips, and implement them into your life, in order to reach your goals and bridge the gap between where you are, and where you want to be. Today, that's exactly what she's done. Eda's story will remind you that your story and experiences are valuable, that our struggles are more universal than we realize, and the impact of our vulnerability is far reaching. value, and you never know how it will impact someone else. To learn more about Eda and her work check out her website www.multirolewoman.com and you can connect with her on Instagram @edaschottenstein  Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Corina Sowada is an empowerment coach who is on a mission to help women find themselves (and love!) again after a toxic relationship. Through her work, Corina helps women dive into identifying toxicity, narcissism and abuse, all to break the cycle. She helps you identify and break trauma bonds and heal from a toxic relationship. Corina so beautifully shares her journey in this week's episode, moving from an on and off again toxic relationship for for years, to ultimately choosing herself and her self-worth. In many ways Corina lost herself during that time. She lost her voice, her passion, and optimism. She no longer recognized the woman she saw in the mirror. Then one day something clicked, and she made the decision to end the relationship. She started to prioritize her health and wellness, and she learned to love her body again. Her mindset began to shift too, and through setting boundaries she started to become Corina again. Corina's reflections will remind you that we are all capable of choosing the life we deserve, but we first have to get really clear on who we are, and what it is that we want.  To connect with Corina and learn more about her work visit her website and on Instagram @corina_unleashed and Twitter @CorinaSowada you can find her Facebook group here and she has spots open for 1:1 coach, you can book a discovery call here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Amy Oestreicher is an Audie Award-nominated PTSD peer-to-peer specialist, artist, author, writer for The Huffington Post, speaker for TEDx and RAINN, health advocate, award-winning actress, and playwright. She's also the author of a brand new novel, “My Beautiful Detour: A Unthinkable Journey from Gutless to Grateful”. In this week's new episode Amy shares how she was an ambitious, audacious teenager who had her life all planned out: go to college, win a Tony, and conquer the world. But life took an unexpected detour when the week before her high school senior prom, she found herself in unusual pain. She was rushed to the emergency room, and due to a blood clot, Amy's stomach exploded to the ceiling of the operating room. After both lungs collapsed, she almost died. Months later, she awoke from a coma covered in tubes, bags, and drains, and was told that she had no stomach anymore, she could not eat or drink, and it was not certain if or when she would ever taste one bite ever again. It took 27 surgeries and six years, but eventually, Amy was miraculously reconstructed, and with the intestines she had left, was given a system that digests food. Today, through her #LoveMyDetour “Detourist Campaign,” she creates content that inspires, educates, entertains, and transforms our perception of obstacles for individuals faced with unexpected bumps and “detours” in their lives – much like what Amy faced at 18 years old. As founder of #LoveMyDetour, she provides advocacy, entertainment, seminars, and peer-to-peer education on trauma, mental health, women's issues, storytelling, and diversity. Her vital message is delivered with humor, eloquence and heart in a down-to-earth, relatable and positive manner. To connect with Amy and to learn more you can connect with her on her website www.amyoes.com and on Instagram @amyoes70 Facebook @amyoestr and on Twitter @amyoes and to learn more about her new book, “My Beautiful Detour: An Unthinkable Journey from Gutless to Grateful” click here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Stephanie Lauren Moore is a twenty-year-old YouTube Influencer, cancer survivor, mental health awareness advocate and charity worker from the UK. Stephanie's empowering messages are influenced by her own cancer survival and mental health recovery, and she has truly dedicated her life to helping others thrive, just as they are. You'll hear it in this week's new episode, Stephanie has turned her challenges into opportunities to embrace the joy in her life, and ultimately recognize her true beauty and worth. Stephanie is here to help as many people on this planet through her YouTube channel and charity work She's the author of “I AM”, a unique workbook-style publication that, aside from empowering the reader with the author's own amazing life story, takes them through a series of tasks to recognize their beauty, potential and worth to humanity. Stephanie wants to see people start to believe in themselves and develop the ‘I am' attitude. “I AM” is about the art of self-love, finding your purpose in life, and feeling you are enough. It's an opportunity for readers to take stock of their life, redefine their challenges, and ultimately build a new existence of prosperous joy and balance. It contains simple techniques and tips that will transform your life for the better, and simple exercises that will help you learn to love yourself, set some goals, and gain a new positive outlook on life. To learn more about Stephanie, you can connect with her on her website https://www.stephanielaurenmoore.com/ YouTube channel here Facebook @stephanielaurenmoore Twitter @itsstephmoore Instagram @stephanielaurenmoore and you can find I Am on Amazon here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Kaitlyn A Faria is aspiring to make the world a prettier place through design. Currently based out of The San Francisco Bay Area, Kaitlyn works as a Product Coordinator & Designer for a furniture & home decor company. She also runs an interior design & lifestyle blog. In this week's new episode Kaitlyn shares with us her journey with design, and the postgrad journey she never expected. While in college, Kaitlyn found out that she had a brain tumor, she was diagnosed with anxiety, depression and PTSD. Once she graduated, she was over $100k in debt, and her first job was as a sales associate. While on her lunch break, Kaitlyn would go to a coffee shop nearby and write down what she was grateful for, and religiously listen to self-help podcasts. As she shares in this week's new episode, there are two major things she learned during that process. One, write down the things that you want and be clear. Two, she decided that she was going to change her story. She wasn't going to focus on the negative, but instead focus on the positive - she was young, passionate, and that her opportunities are endless. To connect with Kaitlyn and her work, visit her website www.kaitlynfaria.com and on Instagram @oh_kayfairy Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Sinead Sharkey-Steenson is The Career Elevator Coach at Generation Women where she helps women get the promotions and pay-rises they deserve. Passionate about equality and seeing more women in leadership,  Sinead blends practical strategies with simple mindset tools to achieve amazing results…with several getting over 100% payrises and multiple promotions!  To date she's helped close to 10,000 women take a step up. Sinead draws on over 20 years corporate experience in HR, Leadership Development, Business Improvement, and Cultural Transformation to help her support women to achieve their ambitions.  She has been recognised as one of 22 Leaders to Learn from in 2022 by Bunch Leadership App. She has developed and delivered career and leadership programmes for multiple global organisations including; Sensata, Citi, Deloitte, the IFA, and Lean In. Sinead has a lifelong love of learning and strives to bring the best academically and professionally to her work. She has a BA Hons in Psychology, MSc Computing, MSc Human Resource Management, is an NLP Master practitioner, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, and an accredited ICF Coach and Positive Intelligence (PQ) Coach.  She's a mum of two girls who have made her even more passionate about equality. She also loves live comedy and music, sleep, and cold water swimming…in that order! In today's episode Sinead shares her story taming her imposter. For years others described her as shy - but she didn't feel like she was shy! She thought she observed and made her move when she was ready. It was always Sinead father's dream for her to be an international lawyer and that became her goal and ambition too. Suddenly, at the age of 15 her father passed away. But she didn't just loose her parent, she lost her compass. What did she want to do? Who was she really? Sinead went off to university, she studied psychology, and it didn't take long for the shy 7 year-old to come back out. Her imposter kicked in. She lived in fear of being found out, of speaking up in meetings, of being asked to do anything on her own. Sinead realized she was going to have to tackle her imposter syndrome, step up, and change things for the better, and that's exactly what she's done. To connect with Sinead visit her website https://genwomen.global and on LinkedIn here Facebook @GenerationWomen and Instagram @GenerationWomen Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.      

Michelle Burke is a sought-after leadership coach, facilitator, speaker, founder, and CEO of Energy Catalyst Group, a consulting and training company for well-being. Lilamani de Silva, MSc, has had an eclectic career across multiple industries including media relations, TV production, and the creation of innovative products for home, work, and play. Michelle and Lilamani have partnered to coauthor and create Joy Cards, Personalogy™ games, and Teambuilder™, a card game to build collaboration. Lilamani's paintings illustrate Joy Cards. In her spare time, Lilamani enjoys being active, traveling, reading, painting, and spending time with loved ones. Michelle enjoys time with loved ones, cooking, fun adventures, reading, sports, and walking her dog Jadie. In today's episode Michelle and Lilamani share their story about two women from completely different walks of life - how they became lifetime friends, creative partners, and how they've cultivated joy. It all started with a chance meeting. They both care about making a meaningful difference in the world and even though they're separating by an ocean, over the years they've learned to embrace technology to make their incredible collaborations possible. Over the last few years they looked for a way to create something that could help them rediscover their own joy and spread joy to others at the same time. Enter the Joy Cards. Michelle and Lilamani's reflections on joy and its impact will remind you the importance of hitting pause and allowing yourself the opportunity to reflect and enjoy the life you're living. To connect with Michelle and Lilamani visit https://energycatalystgroup.com/personal-development/ and energycatalystgroup.com/joy-cards/ Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Amy Brubaker is a Los Angeles based Personal Fashion Stylist whose number one goal is to find a look that works for you. Whether you need a complete closet overhaul, a new look to go with your new job, or you're just looking for that one special occasion outfit, let's work together to find what matches your personality and lifestyle. Amy has always been interested in fashion and after graduating from Woodbury University with a BA in Fashion Design, she spent over 10 years dressing and styling actors and actresses for movies, television and Red Carpet Events. Today, she can bring that expertise to you. Personal Styling is not just for celebrities. Fashion is for everyone. She wants to help you cultivate your own personal style for your everyday life. In today's episode, Amy so vulnerably shares her incredible journey with cancer, what she's learned, the gift of social media and how one person's kindness changed her life. Oh, and how she's continuing to kick cancer's butt, one day at a time. To connect with Amy and learn more about how she's kicking cancer's booty visit her website www.amywardrobe.com and on Instagram @amywardrobe and on Facebook here  Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Sarah Lynne is a Certified Reiki Practitioner and Teacher and Intuitive Empath, and the voice behind Sincerely Spiritual. In today's episode, Sarah shares her journey becoming Sincerely Spiritual, and the incredible transformation she underwent to get to where she is today. After her mom passed suddenly and unexpectedly when she was 18, her life changed in an instant. One day, she randomly made an appointment with her friend's “Intuitive Healer” not even really understanding what it was at the time. Little did she know, the conversation would be a pivotal moment in her life. While there have been many ups and downs, Sarah now understands on a deeper level why we have to go through lessons in life. She understands now what it's like to have healthy relationships, to have people that support you no matter what, and what it means to pursue a life that you love. To connect with Sarah you can follow her on Instagram @sincerelyspiritual and you can book a session with her here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Jeff Kuhn is the author of the Amazon best-selling new book, “Blue Sky Lighting: How to Survive and Thrive When Life Blindsides You.” In his book, he shares the story of his own life-threatening injury and illness. In this week's episode, Jeff shares the story of how he survived burns that covered over 80% of his body. Emergency Room Doctor's told him and his family that he had no chance of survival, but thanks to the hard work of two of the most gifted burn doctors in the world, and an incredible desire to survive, Jeff started to turn the corner after a few days in the intensive care unit. Two years and 18 surgeries later, Jeff was back on his feet and stronger than ever until a year and a half later, when lightning struck again. He came down with a neuromuscular disease which caused more pain than the burn injuries. Jeff's two near death experiences left him more mentally and physically stronger. His message is for survivors, fighters, and the individuals who have gone through unspeakable trauma, and his words will remind you that we all have an inner fire that can and will propel us forward. He tells his story with grit and determination, revisiting his experiences to give readers and listeners hope. Never backing down from the uncomfortable task of reliving his trauma, Jeff has used his story to illustrate the difficulty of overcoming tremendous odds. An inspiration for anyone facing difficulty, Jeff's words will give you insight and clarity about how trauma can make all of us into powerful warriors, fighting back against tremendous odds. To connect with Jeff and to learn more about his book “Blue Sky Lightning” and to grab your copy visit https://blueskybolt.com and on Twitter @jmkuhn99 Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Makayla Cooper is a Domestic Violence survivor who has turned her pain into her purpose with The Butterfly Effect. She created this project to bring awareness to Domestic Violence, and create a safe haven for women and families to not only discuss domestic violence, but also bring awareness to it. Through The Butterfly Effect, Makayla brings awareness, peer-to-peer support, and guidance to women and their families. She helps them navigate their next steps by providing resources. When you're in a violent or abusive situation, it's often difficult to speak up for yourself - and Makayla's goal is to start a non-profit and to create a safe house for women and their families. It's so important to bring awareness to domestic violence and its impact, and Makayla also hopes to network with other people who are looking to change the conversation surrounding domestic violence. Makayla is encouraging and empowering families all over the world by sharing her experiences, story and truth. To connect with Makayla and learn more about The Butterfly Effect visit her Facebook page here and you can connect with her via email butterflyeffecthope@gmail.com Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Ami Watkin and Laena McCarthy are the founders of The Integrated Hustle. Ami is a recovering corporate attorney and a career and business coach, and Laena is an entrepreneur and business coach. Together they're The Integrated Hustle. They created The Integrated Hustle to help women follow their passion and gain financial freedom. They're all about giving you the tools and support you need to get started. They lead workshops and offer individualized ideation and coaching sessions to help you articulate your business plan, create a plan of action, and bring it to life. There is real power in defining your own path, and that is exactly what Ami and Laena are doing. In this week's episode, Ami and Laena share their journeys and how they got to where they are today.  To learn more about Ami and Laena and The Integrated Hustle visit their website integratedhustle.com and connect with them on Instagram @integratedhustle and @amimila and @laenamira Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Jake Barlow is a Transformational Coach and Holistic Therapist specializing in Inner Child Trauma resolution (the Completion Process), Sound Healing, and Shamanism. He helps a wide range of people who suffer from depression, anxiety, insomnia and complete PTSD, as well as assisting with chronic pain and serious illness. In this week's episode Jake walks us through his story of struggling with self-loathing and pain, depression and suicidal thoughts, to living a life of empowerment and purpose. Jake shares with us the moment he was in a room with a psychic, talking about his current situation and how he got to that space of pain. After reflecting on his childhood, and the traumas he experienced as a young man as a result of his parents divorce, he quickly realized that what he was experiencing wasn't his fault, and that he still had a greater purpose and mission on this planet. To learn more about Jake and his work, you can connect with him by visiting his website and you can connect with him on Facebook @ReintegrationResonanceTherapy and YouTube @ReintegrationResonanceTherapy and on LinkedIn here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Alisha is the founder of Living Fulfilled Coaching. At Living Fulfilled Coaching, Alisha partners with millennial women to build their confidence through prioritizing and incorporating self-care habits and routines that promote a joy-filled lifestyle. Alisha is a thought partner who uses a creative coaching approach to maximize potential in all areas of her clients' lives. In addition to coaching,  Alisha serves as a mental health advocate, presenter, and workshop facilitator for the National Alliance on Mental Health. Alisha also serves as a mentor to girls ages 11-19 at various organizations such as The Girls Scouts of America, Women Who Create, Every Girl Can, Stella Girls, and I'raise Boys and Girls International. In addition to serving as a life coach, mental health advocate, workshop facilitator, and mentor, Alisha teaches both men and women to use self-care intentionally as a way to balance the duties of everyday life whilst ensuring their needs are being actively met. In today's episode Alisha shares her background and the inspiration behind Living Fulfilled Coaching. Today, she embraces those experiences as they are equally responsible for the woman she is today. In 2016, Alisha took her first leap of faith and started her first service based business. The more she did her own internal work, the more she recognized her purpose and mission, to help others find internal joy, love and fulfillment. To connect with Alisha and learn more check visit Instagram: @AlishaSmall­_ Facebook: @AlishaSmall84 Twitter: @AlishaSmall33 Pinterest: @AlishaSmall1 and LinkedIn: @Alisha-Small84 Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Lee Hopkins (he/him/his) is a transgender man who helps people create lasting friendships. After struggling with loneliness most of his life, he's tried various ways to resolve it— including moving across the US to find his tribe and fit in. He's learned that the key to creating meaningful relationships is not “fitting in” or “finding your tribe”, it's about attracting your vibe. He'll show us how this is possible for everyone. In today's episode Lee shares the inspiration behind Patterns of Possibility, a company he started to help him make better connections with other people. Lee shares his journey of self-discovery, moving from feeling disconnected and lonely, to connected, joyful, and recognizing how awesome he is. As Lee shares, we all have something that we're afraid to share or acknowledge. Learning to accept light and dark, the not-so-great stuff and the great stuff about ourselves, this journey of self-discovery was pivotal in allowing Lee to become who he is today. As a Coach, Lee helps people embrace who they are, tap into their own self-discovery, and build stronger and greater connections, with themselves and with others. To connect with Lee and learn more visit his website https://www.patternsofpossibility.com/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/BrilliantNResilient TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@patternsofpossibility IG: https://www.instagram.com/patternsofpossibility YouTube: Patterns of Possibility - YouTube Facebook: https://fb.me/Patternsofpossibility Podcast: https://anchor.fm/patternsofpossibility https://www.patternsofpossibility.com/morepossibility and 10 TIPS TO MAKING MEMORABLE CONVERSATIONS FREE COURSE - Understanding Connections Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.  

Lauren is the creator of the Mind Muscle Motivator, LLC a transformational wellness company that helps busy driven women step into their life filled with passion and purpose through her creative writing, speaking, coaching and retreats. She advocates that your mind is like a muscle and you get to exercise it regularly until it begins to serve you. Lauren is a thought provoker, and is passionate about helping other busy driven women discover themselves on a deeper level so their passions and purpose discover them, and they design a life they love! She is married to her high school sweetheart, Brian and has two beautiful gifts, Brody and Maya. By day, she is a full-time healthcare attorney at a fortune 10 company, and spends her free time spreading light and love to herself and others through her words and daily actions. Lauren wrote this book to help other busy driven women create more fulfillment and zest for their own life. She trusts that her book Reclaim Your Power will motivate you to begin or deepen your own self-discovery so your passions and purpose discover you. In her free time, you can find Lauren in the bath, by the fire or in her hammock reading. She enjoys riding bikes and having hot tub dates with her kids and husband. She is a sucker for all water related activities and eating yummy food is her second hobby! In today's episode Lauren shares what it really means to reclaim your power. Through sharing the introduction to her new book, Lauren shares the role of an inward quest in allowing us to move from drained to passionate. It's Lauren's hope that this book will provide you with the inspiration to make yourself a priority, move past any limitations, and develop a relationship with yourself so that you're able to trust your instincts and take action. Through including journaling prompts and exercises, Lauren hopes to help you self-reflect so that your passion and purpose naturally discover you. To connect with Lauren and learn more check out her website https://mindmusclemotivator.com and on Instagram here Facebook here and you can find her new book here Reclaim Your Power Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

With over 10 years of experience supporting and coaching women from all over the world, Tashina understands just how vital it is to look at the whole-woman when it comes to the goals and desires each woman has.  It is crucial to nurture and transform the foundation upon which those goals and desires are rooted in so that they may be reached with ease, confidence, and joy. Tashina understands the demands of being a woman.  She is an internationally recognised top instructor, entrepreneur since 2008, has toured over thirteen countries as a coach and professional dancer while being married and having a two year old son. Through her tours and coaching practice she has coached over 8,000 individuals throughout the world on self-worth, confidence, and taking ownership of their life.   In today's episode Tashina shares her journey connecting to her inner power, voice, and confidence through movement and music. For Tashina, it all started with dance and music. As a young girl a mentor told her that she'd never amount to anything as a professional dancer. This impacted her internal beliefs, causing her to self-sabotage her professional dance career as an adult. It wasn't until Tashina learned she could change her inner beliefs at a subconscious level that she started to experience a massive breakthrough in her career - teaching, judging, and competing internationally. She's successfully applied these same concepts in multiple areas of her life to create more ease, flow, synchronicity, joy and success. To connect with Tashina and learn more check out her website www.empowered2greatness.com and on Instagram @TransformWithTashina Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empowered2greatness/ and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashinaking/ Listener Free Gift: Break the Perfectionist Mindset Kit (https://www.empowered2greatness.com/perfectionistkit) Self Paced Courses: 5 Methods to Bust Through Perfectionism in Your Life; Putting Yourself First: How to build a Kick-Ass Relationship with Yourself from the Inside-Out (https://empowered-to-greatness.teachable.com/courses) Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Belinda Farrell, author of the book Find Your Friggin' Joy, graduated with a BA in Spanish and English from the University of California at Berkeley and is trained in hypnotherapy, past life regression, NLP, Hawaiian chanting, and ancient Hawaiian healing (Huna). Belinda trained with Anthony Robbins (author of Unlimited Power) and has effectively used these skills in her own life. She has completed 18 firewalks. When Belinda was forty-eight, she collapsed with herniated discs and spinal nerve damage. Threatened with paralysis by her medical doctors if she didn't have surgery, Belinda instead chose to apply the ancient Hawaiian healing practices she had been learning the previous three years, which are covered in this book. Her back completely healed, including childhood scoliosis. For fifteen years she has been sharing these healing practices with others, offering Reconnective Healing and Huna classes and taking clients to Hawaii to teach Huna and swim with wild spinner dolphins.  In today's new episode, Belinda shares her journey and where it all began. She's overcome major life challenges—the suicide of her son, complete financial loss, and healing a degenerated spine without surgery. But all was not lost. By using ancient Hawaiian techniques and accepting responsibility for every aspect of her life, she was able to rise from the ashes, find her friggin' joy, and now she's sharing this invaluable information with others in her book, Find Your Friggin' Joy. To connect with Belinda you can follow her on her website www.HunaHealing.com  Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Grace Being is a certified mindset coach providing people with tools and intuitive guidance to help them free themselves from their minds and find their inner strength. Her philosophy is "Unlearn what you have learned and set yourself free". After 10 years of abusive relationships and unfulfilling jobs, she decided to work on the relationship with herself to improve the quality of her life. Thanks to a great deal of inner work and spiritual growth, she was able to do a 180 in her life as she realized that her thoughts, emotions, and actions were creating her reality. Once she let go of her limiting beliefs and shifted her mindset, her life shifted. She is now paying it forward by helping others break free from their limiting beliefs and create meaningful lives. In today's episode Grace shares her mission to help people free themselves from their minds and manifest their dreams. How can you manifest your dreams? For Grace, it starts with the process of unlearning. Grace shares her experience with unlearning, doing the inner work that allowed her to get in touch with her internal voice, and ultimately form a sense of identity, worth, and self-love that honors her and her path. For the first time in her life, Grace finally started to pay attention to her emotions and her feelings. It finally felt okay to start listening to her voice and to honor her preferences and the path she wanted to take. To connect with Grace and learn more check out her website https://grace-being.com/ and via email contact@grace-being.com on Instagram @grace.being Facebook @gracebeing.coaching on LinkedIn here and Pinterest here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Victoria Bleeden is the Founder of The Empowered Herd - a specialized equine guided program created by women, as a means to support women in reclaiming their authenticity. Victoria was the quintessential horse crazy child. Her passion for horses began at the age of three when her mother, a lifelong, devoted horsewoman, took her to the pony rides. The shaggy, dwarfed creatures with the all knowing eyes and powerful spirits found their way into her heart. Obsession was sprung, and it knew no bounds. In this week's new episode Victoria shares the story of how her horse, Tater, saved her life and ultimately inspired her to start The Empowered Herd. Victoria spent nearly thirty years as a competitive equestrian. She had spent the majority of her life riding and competing. She had owned nearly a dozen horses, and competed from CA to NY. Riding was her persona. She was confident, able, and at home on the back of a horse. To be robbed of that, all that she knew, all that she relied upon for comfort, was agonizing. In the blink of an eye, she was no longer felt accomplished or talented. Today, Victoria's mission is to inspire other women to find healing through working with horses. Her work as an equine assisted coach utilizes activities involving horses to create metaphors that reflect real life. The approach is non-directive, allowing for opportunities to problem-solve and be creative. All sessions are conducted in a closed arena. To connect with Victoria and  learn more visit her website www.theempoweredherd.com and on Instagram @theempoweredherd and on Facebook @theempoweredherd Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Ashley Perkins is a Master Life & Success Coach for millennial women who are ready to activate their higher-self and consciously create their life and business. Through a powerful blend of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and intuitive strategy, Ashely helps others banish the limiting beliefs keeping them stuck in their life and business, lean into their highest-self with confidence, and show up like the CEO that you are! Ashley spent years playing small, and she came to coaching through her own experiences. Creating a life of fulfillment often comes with a lot of discomfort, but you have the power to create a reality that you love, that's fulfilling. The turning point in Ashley's journey was when she fainted at brunch with her boyfriend. She was burned out, suffering from adrenal fatigue, and it wasn't until she was sitting in the hospital completely depleted, ashamed, and stressed that she realized something needed to shift - ASAP. She was craving freedom and creativity, and this is when she found Neuro-Linguistic Programming. She immediately became obsessed because of the power that it holds and all of the techniques under its umbrella to impact permanent long-lasting and instant change on an identity level. Ashley's story and words will remind you to take a chance on yourself, and challenge yourself to change the way you approach your life and your business. To connect with Ashley and learn more about her work visit her website www.ashleyperkins.co and on Instagram @ashleyperkins.co and Ashley is currently offering a limited number of 2-hour breakthrough sessions to help you create instant subconscious shifts and empower you to quantum leap towards the life and business of your dreams. To learn more and reserve your session, visit: https://ashleyperkins.as.me/breakthrough  Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Dr. Noelle Nelson is a California-based psychologist, consultant and speaker. She is passionate about personal growth and happiness. She's authored over a dozen books about finding our better selves. In 2018, her home was destroyed in the Woolsey fire that tore through many parts of Southern California. Dr. Nelson was able to turn tragedy into hope. As part of her own healing process and to help others who have lived through natural disasters, she wrote Phoenix Rising - Surviving Catastrophic Loss: Fires, Floods, Hurricanes and Tornadoes, Amazon, where she explores the trauma of losing everything--the photos and memorabilia of a lifetime--how to survive the immediate aftermath and how to find the strength to start a new chapter in life.  In her more than 30 years of experience studying and researching human behavior, Dr. Nelson knows that we all could use inspiration in our lives. She shares her thoughts on empowerment, learning and growth on her twice-monthly podcast, "Up! Uplifting, Inspiring, Practical." In 2016, Dr. Nelson noticed that a segment of society is often disparaged and dismissed--those in their later years. Putting on her research hat once again, she found that far from the stereotypical views of older adults, a vast number are leading productive, happy and healthy lives. She decided to highlight them (over 600 and counting) on her Facebook page Meet The Amazings (@MeetTheAmazings) and wrote about many in her book The Longevity Secret, How to Live Happy, Healthy & Vibrant Into Your 70s, 80s, 90s and Beyond (Amazon Kindle).  Dr. Nelson believes that we can all enjoy happy, fulfilling lives while accomplishing great things in love, at home and at work, as we appreciate ourselves, our world and others. In today's episode Dr. Nelson shares how we can start anew after a disaster. In 2018 her home was destroyed by fire in approximately 45 minutes during the Woolsey Fire in Southern California. Nothing was left of her home or her possessions, even the cement driveway turned to powder. As impossible as it was to conceive that her home was gone, she never stopped carrying on. Dr. Nelson reflects on how she survived during the immediate aftermath of losing all per possessions and how she was able to start a new chapter in her life. As she shares, it was out of continuing the normal activities of her life, her anchors, that miracles came. Dr. Nelson's story will remind you just how wonderful people are, that kindness is all around us, and that despite profound loss, we can start anew. To learn more about Dr. Noelle Nelson visit her website www.noellenelson.com on Facebook @drnoellenelson and listen to her podcast Up! Uplifting, Inspiring, Practical on Spotify Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Ali Singer is a writer, mother, former lawyer and overachiever and the light behind the blog Beacon & Joy. Ali always thought that having a well-thought out plan would prevent surprise and carry her beyond any difficulty she'd experience. She started planning out her life, and planning early, and for a long time she thought perfectionism was the route to happiness and fulfillment. She always felt that she needed to stand out and prove her worth. Enter law school and her plan to become the first female president of the United States. Shortly after law school the cracks in her plan started to reveal themselves, and after graduation she practiced law for 5 years before beginning a PhD in Women's Studies. After her daughter was born with special needs, Ali's life path shifted from the pursuit of perfection to a quest to find joy in the everyday, love herself as she is, and radiate kindness. Her daughter helped her reframe her focus away from achievement of the impossible goals she set for herself and self-judgment, and choose compassion, joy, and self-acceptance instead. Ali is truly inspirational, and her journey recognizing that our value far exceeds what we do or what we produce is relatable and honest. Her choice to choose gratitude, self-love, and inner acceptance will leave you seeking out these small moments in your life too. Ali's reflections on the weight of perfectionism and its affect on her health, happiness, and sense of belonging in the world will remind you that you're not alone. Her understanding that we are so much more than what we achieve, that our value is inherent, and that we have nothing to prove will inspire you to reframe the inner dialogue you're having with yourself. It'll also inspire you to let go of the rigid plans and path that you've set forward for your life, and instead choose the beautiful plan and path that is waiting for you. Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Erika Hess is an artist, advocate for the arts, and the creator of I Like Your Work Podcast. As Erika so beautifully says in this week's episode, we have different stories from different seasons of our lives. Each story is unique and full of lessons, reflections, and aha! moments. Erika walks us through her story that began at 27 years-old. Erika's words on what it meant to be vulnerable with herself, and then others, will remind you of just how important it is to let yourself be seen and heard. Her reflections on moving through instability and coming out on the other side feeling secure and grounded, will remind you that we are never alone. As Erika says in this week's episode, we all have a guiding sense to help us - and it's up to us to get quiet enough to hear it. Today, she has an amazing partner and two kids, she continues to work on her art, and through her vulnerability she continues to connect with others. To learn more about Erika and her podcast I Like Your Work visit her website erikabhess.com. You can submit work to be featured on her blog, I Like Your Work Studio Visit, by visiting: https://www.erikabhess.com/ilikeyourworkstudiovisit and check out her newsletter! You can find Erika on Instagram @ilikeyourworkpodcast and email her at ilikeyourworkpodcast@gmail.com Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Tamra Ryan is the CEO of Women's Bean Project, a Colorado 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to change women's lives by providing stepping stones to self-sufficiency through social enterprise. They believe that all women have the power to transform their lives through employment. So they hire women who are chronically unemployed and they teach them to work by making nourishing products. They learn to stand tall, find their purpose and break the cycle of poverty. Because they believe when you change a woman's life, you change her family's life. Throughout the episode Tamra shares the stories of some of the women she's met in her tenure - and every story and experience will inspire you and touch you. Her reflections on the power of the resiliency of the human spirit, the women she's met at the Bean Project who have faced and overcame insurmountable odds, and how it's changed her - from being a “hard hearted business focused woman” to a woman who wants and needs to know each woman's story, will remind you that what we have in common as people, is far stronger than anything that might divide us. Today, Tamra leads the Bean Project's strategic direction and is instrumental in putting the organization on the national and international map, as a high-performing and impactful social enterprise. She is a former board member of Social Venture Partners-Denver, currently chairs the Board of Directors for the Social Enterprise Alliance and is on the advisory board for the Barton Institute for Philanthropy and Social Enterprise at the University of Denver. To connect with Tamra and Women's Bean Project you can visit their website www.womensbeanProject.com and you can find Tamra on Twitter @tamraryan and via email Tamra.ryan@womensbeanproject.com and you can find Women's Bean Project on Instagram @womensbeanproject on Twitter @womensbean and Facebook @womensbeanproject Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Linda Olson is the go-to story expert who helps authors, speakers and entrepreneurs impact millions with their stories. She is a TEDx Speaker, multiple bestselling author and founder of Wealth Through Stories. Her mission is to impact a million people a year with multiple authors in her series, Story Matters! Linda and her husband, Rick, reside in sunny California. They enjoy their two married daughters, sons-in-law and five adorable grandchildren who are the best part of their story. In today's episode Linda shares the day her life changed, and her journey of healing. As Linda shares, when we face an emotional storm we have a choice, we can either go with the storm and prolong our fear, discouragement, guilt and shame, or we can face the storm and get through it much more quickly. Linda shares the pattern she's discovered when facing her emotional storms, the importance of not allowing yourself to stay stuck, and the gift of perseverance. To connect with Linda and learn more check out her website https://wealththroughstories.com and on YouTube here Facebook @wealththroughstories Instagram @linda.wealththroughstories Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Rosanna Berardi is the Managing Partner of Berardi Immigration Law and the CEO of High Wire Woman, where she helps working women create a blueprint to live their lives in a simpler way and take back their most precious commodity: their time. Starting as a one-woman operation in Rosanna's apartment fifteen years ago, Berardi Immigration Law is now a multi-million dollar firm that helps companies navigate the employment-based immigration system and foreign professionals achieve the American dream. In today's episode Rosanna shares her journey becoming an immigration lawyer and the CEO of High Wire Woman. Inspired by her dad's story as an immigrant from Italy, Rosanna became an immigration lawyer and every day she works with clients around the world who want to come to America. For Rosanna, it's such a joyful area of law. Today her work with High Wire Woman is all about about helping women create a life that works for them and empowering them to make those changes. Her goal is to help provide them with small, tangible steps that make a big impact and help women take back their most precious commodity: their time. To connect with Rosanna and learn more check out her website https://www.highwirewoman.com and on Instagram @highwirewoman Twitter @highwirewoman and you can find her podcast, High Wire Woman here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Laurin Wittig, founder of Heartlight Wellness, is an intuitive healer, a Reiki Master, a student of Soul Focused Esoteric Healing, a mentor to those on or just beginning a spiritual path, and an award-winning novelist. She loves to combine her healing skills and her story skills to help her clients reveal the stories that no longer serve them in mind, body, or spirit. As healing happens, new stories are revealed, enhancing and supporting the transformation into a healthier, more joyful, and heart-centered life. This is the same journey Laurin took to health and heart-centered purpose. It brings her great joy to be able to assist others on their journeys to joy. In today's episode Laurin shares her journey finding her purpose and the joy that comes from being in alignment with that purpose. It's the story of how she discovered her gift of healing. Laurin's lifelong struggle with her health and allergies led her to working with an acupuncturist, and then an intuitive healer. It was only when she began to recognize and understand the underlying cause of her allergies, and releasing and shifting the energy surrounding it, that her health changed. Laurin's story will encourage you to look for what may be holding you safe, the hidden fears, doubts, and regrets that might be keeping you from the thing that might just feed your soul, serve your purpose, and fill you with joy. To connect with Laurin and learn more check out her website HeartLightJoy.com and on Instagram @heartlightjoy Facebook @HeartLightJoy and via email laurin@heartlightjoy.com and you can book a Free 20 Minute Call w Laurin Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Linda Jämsén is an American expat living in Finland. She recently self-published her first book, Odyssey of Love: A Memoir of Seeking and Finding, a romantic, travel, and music-filled adventure of her three years working and singing in Budapest. A classically-trained pianist, she is also a choral singer and has performed in Israel, the UK, Hungary, and Finland. She lives on an island in Helsinki with her husband. In today's episode Linda shares a heartfelt story called "The Joy of Giving”, of how the donation of her childhood violin to a Middle Eastern refugee musician in Finland created ripples of joy for all involved. After hearing "Joy to the World" during Christmastime, this memory came to the forefront, and it's a beautiful reminder of the joy of connecting with others, and that our contributions to others have the ability to make a difference. To connect with Linda and learn more visit her website www.lindajamsen.com and on Facebook @Odysseyoflovebook Instagram @lindajamsenauthor and Twitter @LJamsen Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Harry Glorikian is a global business expert, healthcare entrepreneur, podcaster and author of The Future You: How Artificial Intelligence Can Help You Get Healthier, Stress Less, and Live Longer (Brick Tower Press, Oct. 2021). For over three decades, Glorikian has built a breadth of successful ventures in the healthcare space, and he is well known for being at the forefront of helping invest in and grow innovative healthcare companies that are tackling ground-breaking areas of healthcare and biotechnology. A sought-after speaker, Glorikian is frequently quoted in the media and regularly asked to assess, influence, and be part of innovative concepts and trends. He also holds four US patents in telecommunications and has others pending. In today's episode Harry shares the inspiration behind his latest book, what drives his work, and his desire to help others understand how to make a big difference in their lives. As Harry shares, by looking at the data you can begin to make small adjustments in your life that will make significant difference in your health and wellness on a daily basis, and potentially push off or avoid any major issues in the future. It's Harry's hope that his story and reflections will inspire you to follow your passions, achieve the goals you want to achieve, and optimize your health. To connect with Harry and learn more visit his website https://glorikian.com/ for more information. Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Kasey Carmona is a former performing arts teacher turned full-time mom to two boys. When her second son was born with a life-threatening critical illness, Kasey was forced to surrender herself (and her son) into the great big hands of Love. Kasey and her adorable family lives in Atlanta, GA. In today's episode Kasey shares her story of life and love, and the great life and loss of her second son CJ. In May of 2021, a team of doctors sat on Kasey's couch to share that it was time to take her son off life support. Kasey's story and journey captures both joy and suffering, and she so beautifully shares why they're on the same spectrum and what changes when we see the beauty in all things. When we embrace both joy and suffering we allow ourselves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life. The truth is we don't know how many moments we have with the ones we love the most. The proverbial “Last Supper” became a reality for her family just a few short months after CJ's birth, and in those last minutes turned days, they saw life, death and the divine dance in their home and hearts. To connect with Kasey and learn more visit her on Instagram @kaseycarmona and @let.them.be.known Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Dr. Sharon Grossman is a success coach, speaker, and author of the Amazon bestseller, The 7E Solution to Burnout, who helps high achievers crack the code of their burnout so they can find tailored solutions for recovery. If you've tried workshops and therapy and feel like nothing sticks, working with Dr. Sharon will show you how you can totally transform your relationship with your work by working on yourself instead of trying to change your job or career. She's shared her grounded yet practical approach with numerous organizations, nonprofits, and universities. You can find her online at www.drsharongrossman.com or on Facebook at The High Achiever's Lounge. In today's episode Dr. Sharon shares her journey and what led her to focusing on burnout prevention and recovery. From developing an interest and passion for personal development at an early age, to recognizing her own constant need to evolve, Dr. Sharon realized the ever present need to focus on burnout. Through her work she mixes CBT, mindfulness, emotional intelligence and energy psychology to help others reshape their thinking and way of engaging with their work and life. Dr. Sharon shares what she's learned about herself through her journey, her biggest dream to help others crack the code on their burnout, so that you can continue to do the work that you love without sacrificing your health in the process. To connect with Dr. Sharon and learn more visit www.drsharongrossman.com you can find the Burnout Checklist here and her book here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Gwen Finestone, MFT, Ph.D., CT, is President of California Southern University and has been recently nominated as a “Woman of Influence” via the Irvine Chamber for her contribution as an inspirational leader, role-model and advocate and mentor helping women in the workplace rise in leadership. In today's new episode Gwen shares her journey and introduces her new book, “Finding the Gems,” where she helps readers overcome major life trauma and loss and teaches them to lead a happy and positive life without letting their tragedies define them. She blends psychology, spirituality, humanism, meaning and purpose to help readers free themselves from the pain of their losses.  To connect with Gwen and learn more visit her on her website http://www.drgwenfinestone.com and on Twitter @finestonegwen Facebook @dr.finestone and you can find her new book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Tammie Chang, M.D., is a board-certified physician in pediatric hematology/oncology and co-founder of Pink Coat MD, an uplifting community to empower women physicians. Using her expertise in coaching, leadership and consulting work, background in wellness and work as a physician, Chang guides women physicians to become the best version of themselves and protect their well-being by helping them achieve greater balance, prevent burnout and live healthier lives. Her upcoming book, Boundaries as a Woman Physician: The Key to Loving Your Life and Career in Medicine, focuses on the understanding that to heal and serve others, one must first focus on having a healthy body, spirit and mind. In today's episode Tammie shares her journey with severe burnout, the importance of good self-care habits and boundaries in a physician's life to avoid burnout, stress and exhaustion, and her dedication to changing the culture of medicine. Through her journey and diving into the magic of coaching, Tammie discovered that joy is her top core value, followed by love, freedom, courageous integrity, empowerment, and growth. Through following these guiding principles she discovered what it means to truly be alive and live a life full of joy. Tammie shares the hard earned lessons she's learned, why we need to be clear on our why, and her biggest dream. To connect with Tammie and learn more check out her website www.tammiechangmd.com and www.pinkcoatmd.com and on Instagram @tammiechangmd and @pinkcoat_md Twitter @tammiechangmd and @pinkcoat_md Facebook @tammiechangmd and @PinkCoatMD and on LinkedIn here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

When She Wakes, She Will Move Mountains author Tanya Valentin is a teacher, women's archetype mentor, poet, podcaster, and published author. She is the founder of the AWAKE™ mentoring framework, used to support mothers of tween and teen girls who are navigating change to create the life that they want. Valentin was born in South Africa.  Today, she lives in Northland, New Zealand with her husband, three teenage daughters, and a happy collection of a dog, three cats, and free-range farm animals, including a mischievous goat named Kemi.  To connect with Tanya and learn more check out her website https://www.tanyavalentinauthor.com and on Instagram @tanyavalentinnz and you can find her book here Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy. Tanya is committed to co-creating magic in the lives of women so they can discover their purpose, reclaim their joy, find their voice, create the life they want, and step into their magnificent inner Queen. In today's episode Tanya shares her journey becoming an Archetype Mentor and Author of When She Wakes, She Will Move Mountains - Five Steps to Reconnecting with Your Wild Authentic Inner Queen. After years of ignoring her real calling to be a writer, she looked herself in the mirror and realized she didn't recognize the woman staring back at her. She wondered where her life had gone, and Tanya knew it was time to change her life. This wake-up call culminated in a huge personal awakening and healing journey. During the pandemic she was inspired to write about her journey to offer hope and healing to other women and moms who are going through the same thing she did. Tanya's story is a beautiful reminder that we're never really lost, the real you is within, you just need to surrender to what is.

Olivia Swindler was raised in Spokane, Washington, but currently resides in Grenoble, France, and is the Communication Coordinator for Young Life in Europe. She spends most of her spare time wandering through the mountains and eating her weight in bread. Olivia believes that through fiction we can learn and grow from one another because there is something magical about picking up a book and allowing it to transport you someplace new. Cynthia Starts a Band is her debut novel, which she hopes will create and foster hard, real-life conversations, inspiring readers to have the courage to discover who they are when the world isn't looking. In today's episode Olivia shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, Cynthia Starts a Band, and the impact of friendship and community on her healing journey. One of the major themes of this book is friendship, starting over, and the people who are there for you along your journey. Olivia so beautifully shares the gift of female friendships, the impact its had on her life, and how her friendships helped her fully process her breakup and toxic relationship. Through her work Olivia embraces the values of family, empowerment, and healing while also subtly drawing on the #metoo movement. To connect with Olivia and learn more check out her website oliviaswindler.com and on Instagram @oliviaswindler Stories of Inspiring Joy is a production of Seek The Joy Media and created by Sydney Weiss. To learn more and submit your story, click here. *Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stories of Inspiring Joy.

Pastor Gene Joo

Yasmin Nguyen has a joyful story to tell. He does it as an author, adventurer, facilitator, filmmaker, joy ambassador, photographer, speaker, and world changer. Yasmin is the founder of the Joyful Living Project. He created the Joyful Living Project to ignite positive change and remind us of all the good around us. He's also starting a podcast to help others activate joy in their lives. In this interview, Yasmin talks about some of the challenges he has faced, including fleeing communist Vietnam, being rescued at sea, growing up as an immigrant in America, his experience with corporate life, entrepreneurship, deep depression, and burnout. Yasmin has come up with 7 principles of joyful living that worked for him and is excited to share them. To inspire and reach more Joy Ambassadors, he's writing a book on his life journey and challenges. Some years ago, Yasmin found a deeper calling that led him to pack up his car to drive across America on an 18-month journey to discover, document, and share stories of real people, beautiful places, and heart-opening experiences that bring us joy. In 2022, he and his team will launch a new concept called "The Joy Gym" to reconnect millions of people every day as "Joy Makers" to practice simple habits that activate joy, strengthen their hearts and minds, and create a better world.

Sydney Weiss is a lawyer and the creator, host, and producer of Seek The Joy Podcast, your go-to podcast for heartfelt storytelling and conversations on all things self-love, joy, connection, wellness and spirituality. Sydney's greatest mission is to uplift and empower others to find their authentic voice, encourage them to step into their vulnerability and courage, all to seek their joy and bring about greater healing. In 2020, Sydney launched Stories of Inspiring Joy, a new space dedicated to sharing your stories, in your words. There is real power in storytelling, and when we come together around shared love, loss, laughter, joy and vulnerability, we build connection, create inspiration, and come together in community. We all have a story to share and a voice that is meant to be heard, and we want to share yours.In this episode, we talk about Sydney's journey to becoming both a lawyer and podcast host, navigating burnout, the different types of rest, the evolution of Seek the Joy and healing your voice through podcasting, and living in your purpose.Creative Resources Mentioned:The Beauty of Living Twice by Sharon StoneThe Seat of the Soul by Gary ZukavSuper Soul Sundays with OprahTrevor HallConnect with Sydney:https://www.seekthejoypodcast.com https://www.sydneyaweiss.com https://www.storiesofinspiringjoy.com

Today I share a great quote from Albert Einstein that reminds us that one of the most powerful things we accomplish as educators is the ability to inspire joy in our students as they master new ideas and knowledge. This message will encourage you each day to bring your own passion and enthusiasm to life as it lights the fire of learning in the hearts of your students.

Welcome to Permission to Heal! I'm thrilled that you are here.  In today's episode, I have the beautiful Sydney Weiss. Sydney Weiss is a lawyer and the creator, host, and producer of Seek The Joy Podcast, your go-to podcast for heartfelt storytelling and conversations on all things self-love, joy, connection, wellness, and spirituality. Sydney's greatest mission is to uplift and empower others to find their authentic voice, encourage them to step into their vulnerability and courage, all to seek their joy and bring about greater healing. Through Seek The Joy, she's been able to do just that.  Inspired by our ongoing journey toward growth, empowerment, and self-love, every episode offers a fresh perspective, “aha!” moments, laughs, and stories, and wisdom that will stick with you throughout the week. In 2020, Sydney launched Stories of Inspiring Joy, a new space dedicated to sharing your stories, in your words.  There is real power in storytelling, and when we come together around shared love, loss, laughter, joy, and vulnerability, we build connection, create inspiration, and come together in community. We all have a story to share and a voice that is meant to be heard, and we want to share yours. To contact Sydney & find her podcasts  Seek the Joy Podcast & Stories of Inspiring JoySeek the Joy Podcast websiteInstagram (personal), Instagram (podcast), Twitter, Facebook.Connect with Marci·       Website, Patreon, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Facebook Group.·       Permission to Heal on YouTube.·       Permission to Land  (memoir) - Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, audiobook -      Permission to Land: Personal Transformation Through WritingPermission to Heal Bookshop - Buy books from the episodes & support independent bookstores. Permission to Heal is a passion of mine.  I need your help to bring more inspirational episodes to the world; please consider becoming a patron through PATREON. This is where your PATREON subscription comes in. You get perks & the contentment knowing you are helping get PTH out to the people who need it.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/PermissiontoHeal)

Great leaders elevate organizations and communities, while simultaneously giving back. Join Marketing Specialist of Chalmers Insurance Group, Nina Cutter, as she interviews local leaders who champion important causes in their community.  Today we hear from Jennifer Bravo, Chef, Health Coach and Artist: how her multi-faceted career has evolved; why she's an advocate for intuitive eating and body acceptance; how the pandemic has affected her business; and finally, what community means to her and how she collaborates with other local businesses.