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A 10-minute music meditation for practicing presence, strengthening concentration, and learning to gently redirect your attention whenever the mind wanders.
A five-minute music meditation for practicing presence. Let your attention rest on sound, notice when the mind wanders, and gently return to the music.
#1062 What if a simple bedtime routine you'd used since childhood could grow into a business with millions of downloads, books, an app, and an entire team behind it? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, host Britlyn Williams sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of Nothing Much Happens, to unpack how she went from owning a small-town yoga studio to building one of the most recognizable brands in the sleep-story space. Kathryn shares how she launched the podcast in just five or six weeks, grew almost entirely through word of mouth, and turned calming bedtime stories for grownups into a nightly habit for listeners around the world. She also breaks down why consistency and quality matter more than chasing virality, how authenticity helps build a loyal audience, and the lessons she learned while expanding from a one-person creative project into a larger business with books, multiple podcasts, an app, and a growing team! What we discuss with Kathryn: + From yoga teacher to podcaster + Launching in just six weeks + Growing through word of mouth + Finding an underserved niche + Quality over virality + Creating addictive sleep routines + Building an authentic audience + Expanding into books and apps + Hiring the right team + Turning an audience into a business Thank you, Kathryn! Check out Part 2 of this episode. Check out Nothing Much Happens at NothingMuchHappens.com. Listen to Nothing Much Happens. Purchase On the Street Where You Live. Follow Kathryn on Instagram and YouTube. Watch the video podcast of this episode! Get your FREE 5 Minute Business Plan at MillionaireUniversity.com/Plan To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit MillionaireUniversity.com/Sponsors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#1063 What if protecting your audience meant walking away from millions of dollars — because the long-term trust was worth more than the quick payday? In Part 2 of this two-part episode, host Britlyn Williams continues her conversation with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of Nothing Much Happens, to explore the creative and business decisions behind growing a beloved sleep-story brand. Kathryn shares why new products like books, podcasts, and her app have often started as creative decisions rather than business ones, how she stays disciplined while writing every story herself, and why learning to delegate has been one of her biggest lessons as an entrepreneur. She also reveals why she once turned down millions in potential ad revenue to protect the listener experience, how subscriptions have become the company's biggest revenue stream, and why she eventually changed her stance on dynamic ads to build a more sustainable business. Plus, Kathryn discusses building a brand around trust, creating an inclusive world listeners can return to night after night, and taking calculated risks without sacrificing the quality that made Nothing Much Happens successful in the first place! What we discuss with Kathryn: + Creating from creativity, not strategy + Delegating to the right people + Building a disciplined writing routine + Protecting the listener experience + Walking away from millions + Subscriptions as the top revenue stream + Learning to embrace dynamic ads + Building an inclusive brand + Taking calculated business risks + Balancing creativity, growth, and rest Thank you, Kathryn! Check out Part 1 of this episode. Check out Nothing Much Happens at NothingMuchHappens.com. Listen to Nothing Much Happens. Purchase On the Street Where You Live. Follow Kathryn on Instagram and YouTube. Watch the video podcast of this episode! Get your FREE 5 Minute Business Plan at MillionaireUniversity.com/Plan To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit MillionaireUniversity.com/Sponsors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kathryn Nicolai is the creator and host of Nothing Much Happens, one of the most listened-to sleep podcasts in the world, where millions of listeners use her stories to calm anxiety, fall asleep, and feel more at ease in their bodies. With over 20 years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher, Kathryn is a trusted voice in self-care, with a focus on sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and storytelling as medicine. She draws on lived experience and practices including Vipassana meditation, gentle movement, brain training, and bibliotherapy to support people navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and more. Through her work, Kathryn helps people cultivate rest, creativity, and emotional resilience in a culture shaped by overstimulation and burnout. Her new audio book, On The Street Where You Live, also comes out in July 2026. In this episode, Kathryn Nicolai breaks down why storytelling calms the anxious brain, how repetition helps you fall asleep, and why joy—not discipline—is the real key to lasting wellness. RESOURCES: Learn more about Kathryn, her podcast, app and book here: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com/ Instagram: @nothingmuchhappens Get 10% off Peluva minimalist shoe with coupon code COACHTARA here: http://peluva.com/coachtara CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Intro: meet Kathryn Nicolai 01:32 – Sponsor: Peluva Shoes ad 03:19 – Interview begins: 200 million downloads 05:11 – Storytelling and the sleeping brain 08:06 – Coqui frogs, Hawaii, and finding your own sound 09:40 – There's no one "right" way to sleep 11:09 – Falling asleep vs. staying asleep 13:45 – Brain dumps, tension release, and medical help 15:54 – Meditation, impulsivity, and Vipassana 17:51 – Neurodivergence, discipline, and choosing joy 21:59 – Eating disorders and food freedom 23:28 – Terra's coaching, app, and retreats 28:16 – Turning bedtime into a ritual, not a chore 30:23 – Soft spaces over rigid sleep rules 32:16 – Morning rituals and the "witching hour" 33:38 – Sleep is brain training: give it time 35:19 – Inside Nothing Much Happens' story structure 38:04 – Origin story: from Flint, Michigan to 200M downloads 40:18 – Healing fiction, gratitude, and negativity bias WORK WITH TARA: Are You Looking for Help on Your Wellness Journey? Here's how Tara can help you: TRY TARA'S APP FOR FREE: http://taragarrison.com/app INDIVIDUAL ONLINE COACHING: https://www.taragarrison.com/work-with-me CHECK OUT HIGHER RETREATS: https://www.taragarrison.com/retreats SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram @coachtaragarrison TikTok @coachtaragarrison Facebook @coachtaragarrison Pinterest @coachtaragarrison INSIDE OUT HEALTH PODCAST SPECIAL OFFERS: ☑️ Upgraded Formulas Hair Test Kit Special Offer: https://bit.ly/3YdMn4Z ☑️ Upgraded Formulas - Get 15% OFF Everything with Coupon Code INSIDEOUT15: https://upgradedformulas.com/INSIDEOUT15 ☑️ Rep Provisions: Vote for the future of food with your dollar! And enjoy a 15% discount while you're at it with Coupon Code COACHTARA: https://bit.ly/3dD4ZSv If you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here's how to do it on Apple Podcasts: Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-out-health-with-coach-tara-garrison/id1468368093 Scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section. Tap 'Write a Review' (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
Enjoy this excerpt into Kathryn's new cozy audiobook, On the Street Where You Live. Order now here. Copyright © 2026 by Kathryn Nicolai. Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio read by Kathryn Nicolai, Javier Munoz, Mara Wilson, Alma Cuervo, Holter Graham, Danny Burstein, Natalie Naudus, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Patti Murin, from the audiobook On the Street Where You Live by Kathryn Nicolai, published by Simon & Schuster Audio, a Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. Used with permission from Simon & Schuster, LLC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the creator of Nothing Much Happens and the author of the audio novel On the Street Where You Live, Kathryn Nicolai has built an interconnected world where listeners can feel safe, soften their guard and step away from the noise of modern life. In this conversation, Kathryn explains how 20 years of teaching yoga prepared her to speak to millions of listeners, why she created a genre she calls “healing fiction,” and how storytelling can quietly bring people into a state of mindfulness without asking them to meditate. She also shares the discipline behind her enormous creative output, the role safety plays in making art, the practices she uses to regulate her own mind and why our lives were never meant to be constantly optimized. This is a conversation about sleep, creativity, community and creating softer places to land—in our minds, our neighbourhoods and our lives. EXCITING STUFF! My second book now available for pre-order! You're Invited: A Life-Changing Conversation with History's Greatest Wisdom Teachers Get your MENTAL FITNESS BLUEPRINT here! A special thanks to our mental fitness + sweat partner Sip Saunas Connect with Marc: https://konect.to/marcchampagne Timestamps: 00:00 — Meeting the “Architect of Cozy” 00:39 — Why the Mind Needs to Feel Safe 02:14 — The Hidden Training Behind Kathryn's Success 05:40 — Becoming a Writer by Creating a New Genre 07:11 — The Bedtime Story That Started Everything 08:41 — Discipline, Writing Sprints and Scheduled Goofing Around 11:37 — Where Kathryn's Ideas Come From 13:32 — Creating Healing Fiction 18:19 — The Sneaky Power of Storytelling 20:18 — Why Creativity Requires Safety 21:46 — How Kathryn Regulates Her Mind 23:15 — Self-Care as the Bare Minimum 24:50 — Your Life Is Not an Optimization Project 25:44 — Why Audio Became the Perfect Medium 28:37 — Letting Collaborators Make the Work Better 31:20 — Goodness, Community and Belonging 33:38 — Ubuntu, a Smoking Houseplant and Helpful Neighbours 36:06 — Creating a Softer Corner of the Internet 37:53 — Neighbours of Nothing Much 40:14 — The Satisfaction of Useful Work * Special props
Kathryn Nicolai is the creator and host of the beloved podcast Nothing Much Happens, where her soothing bedtime stories help millions of adults quiet their minds and find more restful sleep. A former yoga instructor and lifelong storyteller, Kathryn has transformed her childhood practice of creating stories before bed into books, audiobooks, and a comforting community for people seeking peace in a noisy world. Today, Kathryn shares how storytelling became a sanctuary during her childhood in Flint, Michigan, why the ordinary moments of life are often the most meaningful, and how rest can help us reconnect with ourselves. We also discuss the friend whose final words inspired Kathryn to pursue her dreams, the healing power of feeling safe and seen, and her latest book, On the Street Where You Live. My friends, if life has felt a little too loud or you need permission to slow down, this conversation is for you. You'll leave encouraged to find joy in the ordinary and to give yourself the rest you need and deserve.
In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the hit sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens and author of the audio novel On the Street Where You Live. Kathryn shares how she transformed the simple act of storytelling into a global community centered on rest, mindfulness, and human connection.Together, they discuss the power of everyday stories, the role of sensory details in creating calming narratives, and why slowing down can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Kathryn also offers insight into her creative process, the inspiration behind her audio novel, and how intentional storytelling can foster empathy, comfort, and a greater appreciation for the ordinary moments that shape our lives.Whether you're interested in mindfulness, storytelling, sleep, creativity, or discovering your next favorite book, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into the healing power of stories and the importance of finding connection in everyday life.What We're Talking About...The power of sensory details in immersive storytellingHow storytelling builds community and meaningful human connectionWhy cozy, wholesome stories resonate with readers and listenersBehind the scenes of writing books and producing audiobooksMindfulness, presence, and finding beauty in everyday momentsWorld-building techniques for fiction, podcasts, and audio storytellingThe connection between storytelling, emotional well-being, and mental healthChapters00:00 Introduction to Kathryn Nicolai and her work01:00 The origins of the Nothing Much Happens podcast02:12 The power of storytelling for sleep and relaxation02:53 Creating a genre: narrative sleep stories03:50 Expanding into books and world-building04:48 The process of writing the book On the Street Where You Live06:02 Sensory details and emotional depth in storytelling06:57 The importance of community and connection08:02 The role of cozy stories in a chaotic world08:56 Balancing multiple projects and creative energy09:46 The future of storytelling and community building11:03 How stories shape our understanding of the world12:06 Closing thoughts and where to find Kathryn's workLinks MentionedNothing Much Happens Podcast: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.comListen to On the Street Where You Live: https://www.audible.com/pd/On-the-Street-Where-You-Live-Audiobook/B0GF9RRVRR?source_code=GO1PP30DTRIAL54703142491H0&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1261256&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16881025087&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo_PRBhDNARIsAEcVALV13XH_IDZ7LYIEwNty6YRMFWKNjY2i-4JWLF7EbtDzrE5n0h4WmkMaAteZEALw_wcB
Enjoy this sneak peek into Kathryn's new cozy audiobook, On the Street Where You Live, out on July 28th. Preorder now here. Copyright © 2026 by Kathryn Nicolai. Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio read by Kathryn Nicolai, Javier Munoz, Mara Wilson, Alma Cuervo, Holter Graham, Danny Burstein, Natalie Naudus, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Patti Murin, from the audiobook On the Street Where You Live by Kathryn Nicolai, published by Simon & Schuster Audio, a Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. Used with permission from Simon & Schuster, LLC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Ralph and Marcus revisit the last six guests who joined the goodsugar Podcast and dive into all the questions they wish they had asked the first time around.From back pain, sleep, relationships, sexual health and genetics to longevity, pseudoscience and building healthier habits, they reflect on what each guest taught them, what stuck with them, and where they still have questions.Featuring discussions inspired by Dr. Rob Jones, Kathryn Nicolai, Dr. Justin Houman, Dr. Nan Wise and Natalie Sampson, this episode serves as both a recap of some of our favorite conversations and a deeper look at the topics we're still exploring.If you've missed any of these episodes, this is the perfect place to start before going back and watching the full interviews.00:00 Intro00:30 Why we're revisiting our last six guests01:23 Dr. Rob Jones and back pain03:18 Confidence versus certainty in healthcare05:27 How to prevent back injuries07:09 Kathryn Nicolai and better sleep09:17 Marcus' nighttime productivity habits10:00 Ralph's morning routine11:28 Learning new skills throughout life13:07 Ultimate Frisbee memories15:39 Dr. Justin Houman and men's sexual health17:02 Parenting, blended families and relationships20:57 Would you date a friend's ex?22:06 Dr. Nan Wise and modern relationships23:02 Natalie Sampson, genetics and personalized health24:44 Can your genes predict your future?26:12 Should doctors keep updating their knowledge?27:24 Science versus pseudoscience29:10 Saunas, heat therapy and longevity30:16 Final thoughtsTEXT us your questions at 718-306-3906!The goodsugar store is the epitome of cool, nestled at 3rd avenue + 69th street!
Kathryn Nicolai is the creator and host of Nothing Much Happens, one of the most listened-to sleep podcasts in the world, where millions of listeners use her stories to calm anxiety, fall asleep, and feel more at ease in their bodies. With over 20 years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher, Kathryn is a trusted voice in self-care, with a focus on sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and storytelling as medicine. She draws on lived experience and practices including Vipassana meditation, gentle movement, brain training, and bibliotherapy to support people navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and more. Through her work, Kathryn helps people cultivate rest, creativity, and emotional resilience in a culture shaped by overstimulation and burnout. Her new audio book, On The Street Where You Live, also comes out in July.Nothing Much Happens Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nothingmuchhappens/Website: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nothing-much-happens-bedtime-stories-to-help-you-sleep/id1378040733Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/On-the-Street-Where-You-Live/Kathryn-Nicolai/9781668158272Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq0ReOdR2-ZrL3NzzLURgbgThis podcast is for you if you're looking to:Join a community for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone who thinks ‘out of the box.'Find conversations on Neurodivergence and difference.Learn how to use your unique wiring for a purposeful life.Visit Middle Earth Medicine to learn more and connect with Caroline.Your donations directly fuel the growth of this podcast! They allow Caroline to bring in even more wonderful and inspiring guests, expanding her reach to uplift even more listeners. Please show your support and become part of the magic! Donations of any amount are deeply appreciated. You can make a secure donation through PayPal using the link below.Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference! paypal.me/carolinecarey60 Thank you for your support in spreading the light of soul journeys.The views expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect my perspectives. My aim is to create a space for open enquiry, diverse experiences, and thoughtful conversation. As always, I invite you to reflect on what resonates, question what doesn't, and trust your own wisdom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
TimeStamps : 00:00 — Intro — Welcome to the Holistic Kids Show 00:54 — The Teen Sleep Crisis — 77% Fall Short 01:28 — Meet Kathryn Nicolai — Guest Introduction 02:25 — Kathryn's Origin Story — Bedtime Stories Since Age 4 04:40 — Why "Nothing Much Happens" — The Science of Predictability & Safety 08:17 — Why Can't We Sleep? Understanding Stress Cycles 09:49 — Why Stories Work — The Neuroscience of Storytelling & Calm 13:09 — Imagination as Healing — Processing Anxiety & Grief Through Stories 15:21 — What True Rest Actually Looks Like 17:33 — The "Panic Button" — Live Vagus Nerve Breathing Exercise 19:07 — How Kathryn Crafts Her Stories — The Key Components 20:53 — Is It Normal to Take 45 Minutes to Fall Asleep? 22:34 — Kathryn's Final Message — Someone Cares About Your Sleep 24:05 — Where to Find Kathryn & Her Work 24:39 — Episode Recap & Closing Desc : Finals stress, racing thoughts, and endless screen time — sound familiar? In this episode, the Holistic Kids welcome Kathryn Nicolai, host of Nothing Much Happens (200 million downloads and counting), to break down the science of sleep, storytelling, and nervous system regulation. Kathryn shares how she turned a childhood habit of telling herself bedtime stories into one of the world's most listened-to sleep podcasts — and why it works for teens just as much as adults. You'll learn: Why your brain struggles to "turn off" after a stressful day What stress cycles are and how stories help close them How imagination and creativity support emotional healing A simple "panic button" breathing technique to calm anxiety fast What true rest really looks like (hint: you don't need to be perfect at it) Whether you're cramming for finals, dealing with anxiety, or just can't seem to fall asleep — this episode is your permission slip to slow down, breathe, and let a story carry you to rest. Find Kathryn: nothingmuchhappens.com Follow the Holistic Kids: @holisticmomdy | @holistickidsshow --- Learn more about Dr. Madiha Saeed at https://holisticmommd.com, or follow her on social media @HolisticMomMD
Today I am here with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the wonderful sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens, the amazing mindfulness podcast First This, and the lively and delightful podcast Stories from the Village of Nothing Much. Kathryn'new book, On the Street Where You Live, comes out next month, in July 2026. Here is her Instagram, a great place to see what's going on with Kathryn and her creations!Kathryn is intentionally cultivating joy. She began drawing earlier this year, despite having aphantasia (lack of visual imagery – no sound, colours, shapes or forms) and is loving the playful creativity. She's taking online courses and filling her walls with new designs.In our conversation today, Kathryn reflects on letting go of perfectionism and claiming the identity of ‘writer' simply because she chooses to.How she got hereKathryn once believed she wasn't creative, surrounded by artistic friends and family. Over time she learned creativity is a practice. She's now 400+ episodes into Nothing Much Happens, on her second book and running three podcasts.Growing up in Flint, Michigan, she told herself bedtime stories from the age of four. After 20 years teaching yoga/meditation, storytelling was a more accessible way to help people rest and regulate.Kathryn has known sound designer Bob Wittersheim for some time and when she started working with him on Nothing Much Happens, he worked for free. Kathryn describes his compassionate and protective energy and credits him with grounding her.Characters and perspectivesKathryn realised early on that all her stories lived in the same universe. Writing in first person helps listeners to ‘pull the story around them' and she includes a broad range of representative characters. Her upcoming book expands this catalogue of characters. She is now experimenting with a more eagle‑eyed view of the village while keeping her intuitive, centered style. She wants to stay inspired and genuine.InclusivityAs a queer woman, Kathryn values creating spaces where everyone feels safe. We discuss the joy of stories where characters live freely and fully.Anorexia and OrthorexiaKathryn speaks openly about her eating disorders, now seven years into recovery. She reflects on the years lost and the creativity gained since healing; she wants to model recovery.Recovery and identityHere is a lovely moment in our conversation – I share how First This supported me during a period of reclaiming my name and intuition. Kathryn emphasises that creators often help people they'll never meet. She quotes the Regina Spektor song ‘Better', with the line ‘If you never say your name out loud to anyone they can never ever call you by it'. Kathryn describes bodily awareness, connection, her dog beside her, and the joy of this conversation as what feels present for her in this moment.I'm filled with gratitude, to have had this conversation and to be able to bring it to you.Invitations to Play with Kay* I'm offering online workshops throughout 2026, and an in-person retreat here in Maine in September - see more at https://kaylockkolp.com/events* If community is something you value, consider joining Dreamers & Doers. Here is where you can check it out: https://www.skool.com/dreamers-and-doers-8465/about* Connect with me to talk about coaching or facilitation* Or, apply to work 1-1 with me (currently waitlisted)Cheers and lots of love to you today!Art Creativity & Wellbeing is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kaylockkolp.substack.com/subscribe
What if falling asleep has less to do with forcing your mind to be quiet, and more to do with giving it a gentle place to land? In this deeply calming conversation, Darin sits down with author, meditation teacher, and creator of the wildly successful Nothing Much Happens sleep podcast, Kathryn Nicolai. With more than 200 million downloads, Kathryn has helped millions of people quiet anxious minds, overcome insomnia, and rediscover rest through the ancient power of storytelling. Together they explore the neuroscience of storytelling, why our brains crave safe narratives before sleep, the role of the Default Mode Network in anxiety, how sensory-rich stories calm the nervous system, and why creating inner safety may be one of the most powerful wellness practices available. Kathryn also shares the moving personal story that inspired her to finally pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a writer after the death of a close friend, and how that decision changed millions of lives. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't always come through doing more, it often begins by feeling safe enough to simply rest. What You'll Learn Why storytelling naturally calms the nervous system How Nothing Much Happens grew into a global sleep phenomenon The neuroscience behind sensory-rich storytelling Why anxious minds need a "safe job" before sleep How bedtime stories shift the brain out of the Default Mode Network The connection between storytelling, meditation, and nervous system regulation Why creativity begins with feeling psychologically safe Kathryn's powerful story of pursuing her dream after losing a close friend How beginner's mind and play unlock creativity Why perfectionism keeps people from living fully How restorative storytelling helps trauma survivors feel safe Why cultivating internal safety transforms every area of life Chapters 00:00:00 – Welcome to SuperLife 00:00:33 – Sponsor: Alchemist Paint and creating healthier homes 00:03:25 – Introducing Kathryn Nicolai 00:04:04 – The neuroscience of sleep and storytelling 00:05:27 – Kathryn's journey from yoga teacher to sleep pioneer 00:06:37 – Learning to soothe herself through bedtime stories 00:07:51 – Launching Nothing Much Happens 00:08:35 – Why storytelling became a universal sleep solution 00:09:22 – Stories as tools for healing and transformation 00:10:20 – Why storytelling is ancient medicine 00:11:08 – Community, connection, and feeling safe 00:12:30 – Why podcasts satisfy our need for human connection 00:13:19 – How success transformed Kathryn's creativity 00:14:07 – The dying friend's message that changed her life forever 00:15:40 – Discovering confidence through creative practice 00:17:02 – Why fear keeps us from pursuing our dreams 00:18:18 – Millions of lives changed through one bold decision 00:19:32 – New creative projects and expanding the vision 00:20:23 – Writing On the Street Where You Live 00:21:35 – Sponsor: Shakeology 00:23:22 – Technology, phones, and meeting people where they are 00:24:19 – Building a community through storytelling 00:25:04 – Why play may be the shortest path to transformation 00:26:59 – What true psychological safety really means 00:28:23 – Creating stories where everyone belongs 00:29:30 – Cultivating internal safety instead of waiting for it 00:30:47 – Restorative witnessing and rewriting old narratives 00:31:48 – Planting hopeful stories into the subconscious 00:32:31 – Powerful listener stories and healing through sleep 00:33:38 – Helping children, trauma survivors, and hospice patients 00:35:15 – Letting go of perfectionism 00:36:34 – Why comparison steals joy 00:38:07 – The trap of endless self-optimization 00:39:17 – Beginner's mind and giving yourself permission to try 00:41:03 – Escaping subconscious programming 00:42:34 – Dreaming bigger than you've ever dreamed before 00:44:15 – Why Kathryn became passionate about sleep 00:47:05 – Creating a softer place for the human mind 00:48:26 – Finding the gap—and having the courage to fill it 00:50:19 – The role Kathryn's parents played in building confidence 00:53:04 – Designing stories that naturally quiet the mind 00:55:11 – Why sensory details help us become present 00:56:20 – Safety, tears, and nervous system release 00:57:20 – Speaking the language of the body 00:58:03 – The future of Nothing Much Happens 01:00:07 – Helping people reconnect through storytelling 01:02:49 – Meditation, observation, and calming the mind 01:04:13 – New books, the upcoming app, and final reflections 01:05:05 – Closing thoughts Thank You to Our Sponsors: Shakeology: Get 15% off with code DARINO1BODI at Shakeology.com. Alkemis: Go to https://alkemispaint.com/ and use code DARIN10 for 10% off your order. Join the Superlife Community: Get Darin's deeper wellness breakdowns — beyond social media restrictions: Weekly voice notes Ingredient deep dives Wellness challenges Energy + consciousness tools Community accountability Extended episodes Join for $7.49/month → https://patreon.com/darinolien Find More from Kathryn Nicolai Website: nothingmuchhappens.com Instagram: @iamkathrynnicolai Book: Nothing Much Happens Podcast: Nothing Much Happens Podcast Find More from Darin Olien: Website: darinolien.com Instagram: @darinolien Book: Fatal Conveniences Platform & Products: superlife.com New Show: Roadmap to Happiness Key Takeaway "Rest isn't something we force: it emerges when the nervous system finally feels safe enough to let go. Through storytelling, imagination, sensory awareness, and gentle presence, we can interrupt anxious thought loops, cultivate inner safety, and reconnect with the creativity, peace, and wonder that have always lived within us. Sometimes the most profound healing begins not by doing more, but by allowing ourselves to simply be."
Rest is not something you earn. It is something your body needs the same way it needs water. And a lot of women are running on empty and calling it discipline. The problem is not that women are lazy about sleep. It is the opposite. Women who train the hardest, who push through the most, who never stop going are often the ones lying awake at midnight completely wired wondering why their body will not shut off. Because pushing through all day does something to your nervous system that a few hours in bed cannot undo on its own. And nobody is talking about that part. But we will, in this episode where we get into why your brain will not quit at night, why you cannot catch up on sleep the way you think you can, and what closing a stress cycle actually means for women who never fully switch off. This week I am sitting down with Kathryn Nicolai, the creator of Nothing Much Happens, the biggest sleep podcast in the world with over 200 million downloads. Kathryn spent 20 years as a yoga and meditation teacher working with real women through real seasons of life before she built an entire science-backed practice around rest, nervous system regulation, and why the way you move through your days is either quietly supporting your sleep or quietly wrecking it. If you train hard and still lie awake staring at the ceiling, this one is for you. What's Discussed: (11:53) Why women who push through everything are often the ones whose nervous systems take the biggest hit at night (14:49) What a stress cycle actually is, why most women have too many open tabs running, and what actually closes them (19:38) What most people get completely wrong about why they cannot sleep (25:54) What storytelling does to the brain that meditation and white noise cannot (32:37) What brain training actually means for sleep and what happens the longer you stay consistent (47:56) What to do when nothing is working (53:31) Kathryn's personal 3am secret she barely ever shares Join us live on Monday, June 15 at 5pm CST and you'll get a special discount on BroadsCOACH BUILD if you sign up for the Summer Cohort on the call. Save your spot now at: broads.app/body-recomp-webinar Find out more from Broads: Website: broads.app Instagram: @broads.podcast @broads.app Check More Resources: Macronutrient Guide: Want a simple place to start fuelling for the body you're building? Grab Broad's FREE Macronutrient Guide: The Balanced Plate Blueprint at broads.app/macronutrient-guide. Gym Starter Guide: Ready to stop waiting for "someday"? Download the free guide at broads.app/gym-starter-guide Check out more from Tara LaFerrara: Website: taralaferrara.com Instagram: @taralaferrara YouTube: @TaraLaferrara TikTok: @taralaferrara Check out more from Kathryn Nicolai: Website: nothingmuchhappens.com Instagram:@kathryn_nicolai YouTube: youtube.com/c/NothingMuchHappens Podcast Nothing Much Happens on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com Podcast Nothing Much Happens on Spotify: open.spotify.com New Book On the Street Where You Live: nothingmuchhappens.com/thebook
Rest is not something you earn. It is something your body needs the same way it needs water. And a lot of women are running on empty and calling it discipline. The problem is not that women are lazy about sleep. It is the opposite. Women who train the hardest, who push through the most, who never stop going are often the ones lying awake at midnight completely wired wondering why their body will not shut off. Because pushing through all day does something to your nervous system that a few hours in bed cannot undo on its own. And nobody is talking about that part. But we will, in this episode where we get into why your brain will not quit at night, why you cannot catch up on sleep the way you think you can, and what closing a stress cycle actually means for women who never fully switch off. This week I am sitting down with Kathryn Nicolai, the creator of Nothing Much Happens, the biggest sleep podcast in the world with over 200 million downloads. Kathryn spent 20 years as a yoga and meditation teacher working with real women through real seasons of life before she built an entire science-backed practice around rest, nervous system regulation, and why the way you move through your days is either quietly supporting your sleep or quietly wrecking it. If you train hard and still lie awake staring at the ceiling, this one is for you. What's Discussed: (11:53) Why women who push through everything are often the ones whose nervous systems take the biggest hit at night (14:49) What a stress cycle actually is, why most women have too many open tabs running, and what actually closes them (19:38) What most people get completely wrong about why they cannot sleep (25:54) What storytelling does to the brain that meditation and white noise cannot (32:37) What brain training actually means for sleep and what happens the longer you stay consistent (47:56) What to do when nothing is working (53:31) Kathryn's personal 3am secret she barely ever shares Join us live on Monday, June 15 at 5pm CST and you'll get a special discount on BroadsCOACH BUILD if you sign up for the Summer Cohort on the call. Save your spot now at: broads.app/body-recomp-webinar Find out more from Broads: Website: broads.app Instagram: @broads.podcast @broads.app Check More Resources: Macronutrient Guide: Want a simple place to start fuelling for the body you're building? Grab Broad's FREE Macronutrient Guide: The Balanced Plate Blueprint at broads.app/macronutrient-guide. Gym Starter Guide: Ready to stop waiting for "someday"? Download the free guide at broads.app/gym-starter-guide Check out more from Tara LaFerrara: Website: taralaferrara.com Instagram: @taralaferrara YouTube: @TaraLaferrara TikTok: @taralaferrara Check out more from Kathryn Nicolai: Website: nothingmuchhappens.com Instagram:@kathryn_nicolai YouTube: youtube.com/c/NothingMuchHappens Podcast Nothing Much Happens on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com Podcast Nothing Much Happens on Spotify: open.spotify.com New Book On the Street Where You Live: nothingmuchhappens.com/thebook
The Side Hustle Show is designed to get you motivated and excited. This episode is the opposite — and that's the whole point. Nothing Much Happens is intentionally boring bedtime content for grown-ups, and it's been downloaded hundreds of millions of times. Falling asleep is one of the most universal pain points out there, and Kathryn Nicolai found a way to solve it. Before she was a content creator, Kathryn ran a yoga studio for more than two decades. She never planned to build a media company. She just wanted to help people sleep the way she'd been doing for herself her whole life. Six years and 400 episodes later, she now has spawned two books, landed in 35 countries, and grown into a full media company. And she still writes every word herself. Tune in to Episode 745 of the Side Hustle Show to learn: how a free podcast can generate multiple income streams why a premium membership with near-zero churn is the most reliable revenue floor the storytelling craft behind a sleep show that works and why AI can't replicate it Full Show Notes: Bedtime Stories for Grownups: How a Boring Podcast Turned into a Booming Business New to the Show? Get your personalized money-making playlist here! Sponsors: Indeed – Start hiring NOW with a $75 sponsored job credit to upgrade your job post! Quo (formerly OpenPhone) — Get 20% off of your first 6 months! Shopify — Sign up for a $1 per month trial! Gusto — Get 3 months free of the leading payroll, benefits, and HR provider for modern small businesses! Cash App — Download Cash App Today #CashAppPod About The Side Hustle Show This is the entrepreneurship podcast you can actually apply! The award-winning small business show covers the best side hustles and side hustle ideas. We share how to start a business and make money online and offline, including online business, side gigs, freelancing, marketing, sales funnels, investing, and much more. Join 100,000+ listeners and get legit business ideas and passive income strategies straight to your earbuds. No BS, just actionable tips on how to start and grow your side hustle. Hosted by Nick Loper of Side Hustle Nation.
Did you know our very own Trace Dominguez is the host of another podcast, Health vs Hype with the American Medical Association? Every week on HvH Trace talks about health-related trends circulating online. Everything from protein, creatine, fasting, red light therapy, you name it! Each episode centers on one trend and separates what's actually backed by science from what's over-promised hype.In this episode, Trace uncovers the science behind viral sleep trends, and reveals what actually works to improve sleep quality.From mouth tape and melatonin to your sleep tracker, breath work, and sleep divorces, millions of Americans are experimenting with trending sleep hacks. More than half of U.S. adults have tried at least one viral sleep trend. But are these methods backed by science…or just social media hype?Featuring insights from lifestyle content creator Lucie Fink, sleep storyteller Kathryn Nicolai, and sleep medicine expert Dr. Jose Colon, this episode answers the questions:Does your sleep tracker actually improve sleep or increase anxiety?Is mouth tape safe or potentially dangerous?How much sleep do you really need for optimal health?What is heart rate variability (HRV), and does it matter?You'll also learn why “trying harder” to sleep can backfire, how social media influences health behaviors, and which simple, evidence-based strategies can help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling restored.If you've ever struggled with insomnia, experimented with sleep optimization, or wondered whether viral wellness trends are worth it, this episode gets to the bottom of it all.To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Healthy Wealthy & Smart, Dr. Karen Litzy welcomes Kathryn Nicolai, the creator and host of Nothing Much Happens, one of the most listened-to sleep podcasts in the world. Discover how storytelling, nervous system regulation, and mindful routines can transform your sleep quality in this engaging episode. Kathryn shares practical strategies rooted in her background in yoga, neuroscience, and storytelling to help listeners foster calm, resilience, and restful nights. Key Topics: · The therapeutic power of storytelling in calming anxiety and promoting sleep · The neuroscience behind why safety and overstimulation block restful sleep · Practical tools like breathwork, joy, and routines to reset the nervous system · The concept of SIMS (Safety in Me) versus DIMS (Danger in Me) and how to shift balance · How to develop a personalized sleep ritual that feels pleasurable and sustainable · The importance of joy, predictability, and self-compassion in sleep hygiene · Mental models for reducing hypervigilance and promoting safety at night · Kathryn's process of creating comforting stories and building a connected universe for sleep · Techniques for integrating mindfulness and sensory awareness into everyday life · Encouragement to prioritize pleasure over perfection in self-care routines Timestamps: 00:00 - What makes storytelling a powerful tool for sleep 00:48 - Kathryn's journey from yoga teacher to sleep storyteller 02:12 - Why safety in the nervous system is key to restful sleep 03:22 - The role of overstimulation and how modern life hampers rest 04:45 - The magic of bedtime stories and their universal calming effect 06:00 - Understanding default mode network and the glazed eye of overthinking 07:14 - The principles of SIMS and DIMS in regulating nervous system safety 08:45 - How stories foster a reparative sense of witnessing and safety 10:05 - The art of building a nurturing, interconnected storytelling universe 11:41 - Creating a sensory-rich environment that promotes calm 13:03 - Kathryn's storytelling techniques: pacing, predictability, and authenticity 14:13 - The importance of intention and personal touch in story creation 15:33 - Making routine pleasurable — integrating joy into sleep rituals 17:04 - The calming power of familiar locations and recurring characters 18:28 - The significance of predictability and control in anxious times 20:14 - The myth of perfect sleep routines and focusing on what feels good 22:24 - Front-loading the day with joy as a resilience booster 24:24 - The uplifting impact of simple pleasures — music, a kind word, a moment of delight 26:22 - Breathing techniques and other accessible practices to turn down the nervous system dial 27:34 - The accessibility and free nature of mindfulness tools 28:34 - Building habits slowly and with pleasure, not perfection 30:23 - Letting go of rigidity: sustainability in self-care 31:17 - The importance of internal permission to enjoy and relax 32:41 - The secret ordinary moments that remind us of magic 33:44 - Choosing a story setting you'd love to live in 34:19 - Debunking myths in the wellness industry around "perfect rest" 35:16 - The transformational advice to younger selves: embrace imperfect progress 36:11 - Resources, books, and ways to connect with Kathryn 37:13 - Final words: cultivating a safe, restful, joyful sleep environment Resources & Links: · Nothing Much Happens – Website · Nothing Much Happens – Podcast · Nothing Much Happens - Instagram · On the Street Where You Live – Kathryn's upcoming book (search title for purchase info) · First This – Guided meditation show · Kathryn on YouTube More About Kathryn Nicolai: Kathryn Nicolai is the creator and host of Nothing Much Happens, one of the most listened-to sleep podcasts in the world, where millions of listeners use her stories to calm anxiety, fall asleep, and feel more at ease in their bodies. With over 20 years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher, Kathryn is a trusted voice in self-care, with a focus on sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and storytelling as medicine. She draws on lived experience and practices including Vipassana meditation, gentle movement, brain training, and bibliotherapy to support people navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and more. Through her work, Kathryn helps people cultivate rest, creativity, and emotional resilience in a culture shaped by overstimulation and burnout. Her new audio book, On The Street Where You Live, also comes out in July. Jane Sponsorship Information: Book a one-on-one demo here Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media: Karen's Instagram Karen's LinkedIn Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart: YouTube Website Apple Podcast Spotify SoundCloud Stitcher iHeart Radio
Kathryn Nicolai is the creator of Nothing Much Happens, a bedtime story podcast with over 200 million downloads, a former yoga and meditation studio owner with 20 years of teaching experience, and the author of two books. In this episode, she joins Karena Dawn to explore the real relationship between sleep and mental health, why trying to fall asleep actually makes it harder, the ancient power of storytelling as a nervous system tool, and how to build a nighttime ritual that feels like self-care rather than another thing to optimize. What if the secret to better sleep has nothing to do with your room temperature, your wearable, or your bedtime? What if it has everything to do with where you put your mind? Your body already knows how to sleep. The real work is learning to remove whatever is blocking it. (01:37) The Bedtime Story That Became a Career - Why Kathryn started telling herself stories at age 4 and never stopped - The unexpected training ground that shaped everything she does now - The middle-of-the-night moment that launched the podcast - Why she is still not running out of things to write about after 400 episodes (08:41) Sleep, Mental Health, and the Loop Nobody Talks About - The research finding that flips the sleep-depression relationship on its head - Why the thing most people do to fall asleep is making it worse - What your brain is actually doing when the room goes quiet - The ancient reason why silence at night can feel unsettling (18:03) A Ritual That Feels Like Self-Love - The nightly routine Kathryn swears by and it has nothing to do with optimization - Her take on melatonin and sleep aids - Why making your bedtime ritual pleasurable is the whole point - The phone-in-the-bedroom debate and where she actually lands Thanks for the support from our partners, including: Guest Resources - Visit her website - Listen to the podcast: Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime Stories to Help You Sleep - Follow her on Instagram - Buy the Book: Nothing Much Happens If this episode moved you, please consider supporting The Big Silence Foundation and exploring our resources: Connect with The Big Silence Community - Order: The Big Silence Memoir audiobook - Shop The Big Silence Self Love Collection - Subscribe on YouTube - Donate to The Big Silence Foundation - The Big Silence Resource Guide - Find exclusive offers from our supporters Show Resources: - VISIT THE CHALLENGE PAGE - THE BIG SILENCE PODCAST - TONE IT DOWN PODCAST - Tone It Up App - Tone It Up YouTube - Tone It Up Instagram Have a message for Karena? She'd love to hear from you and share your comment or question on air! Leave Karena a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/KarenaDawn
363: Can't sleep? Restless? Anxious? Worried? Wired and Tired? This episode is all about how to fall asleep without using any OTC therapies or natural supplements to aid in sleep. I have Kathryn Nicolai with me today who is the host of the largest sleep podcast in the world, and she shares her methods on how you can fall asleep through storytelling. Topics Discussed: → Natural sleep without supplements → How anxiety affects sleep quality → Causes of feeling wired and tired → Bedtime habits that improve sleep → Storytelling as a sleep technique → How to calm the mind before bed → Fixing restless sleep naturally As always, if you have any questions for the show please email us at digestthispod@gmail.com. And if you like this show, please share it, rate it, review it and subscribe to it on your favorite podcast app. Sponsored By: → Fatty15 | For 15% off the starter kit go to https://fatty15.com/digest Timestamps: → 00:00:00 - Introduction → 00:03:35 - Rapid Fire Questions → 00:05:14 - Story Therapy → 00:06:16 - Power Of Story Telling → 00:11:30 - Anxiety, Depression, + Recovery → 00:16:45 - Sleep Is The Foundation → 00:20:35 - Sleep Insomnia → 00:23:41 - Eating Habits + Loving Habits → 00:28:16 - Calming Habits → 00:30:20 - Rest + Reset → 00:34:20 - Starting Nothing Much Happens → 00:39:44 - Imposter Syndrome → 00:41:02 - Takeaway: Invest In Your Sleep Further Listening: → SLEEP - What it Does for Our Hormones & How to Overcome Insomnia with Dr. Jonny Bowden Check Out Kathryn: → Nothing Much Happens (Spotify) → Nothing Much Happens (Apple) → Instagram → Book → Website Check Out Bethany: → Bethany's Instagram: @lilsipper → YouTube → Bethany's Website → Discounts & My Favorite Products → My Digestive Support Protein Powder → Gut Reset Book → Get my Newsletters (Friday Finds) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My newsletter: https://simonowens.substack.com/ The rise of "sleep podcasts" has quietly reshaped a corner of the audio industry, turning bedtime into a high-engagement listening moment. Few creators have benefited more from that shift than Kathryn Nicolai, whose Nothing Much Happens podcast has grown from a scrappy 2018 experiment into what she describes as the largest sleep podcast in the world. Drawing on decades of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher, Katyrhn built a format that flips traditional storytelling on its head—stories designed not to captivate listeners through to the end, but to gently lull them to sleep. Along the way, she's expanded the concept into books, subscriptions, and a growing ecosystem of products built around relaxation and habit formation. In a recent interview, Kathryn explained how she accidentally helped define an entirely new podcast genre, why word-of-mouth drove her early growth, and how she's built a monetization strategy around an audience that's literally falling asleep.
Why is it so hard to fall asleep… even when you're exhausted?In this episode of the goodsugar Podcast, Ralph Sutton and Marcus Antebi sit down with sleep expert and Nothing Much Happens creator Kathryn Nicolai to break down the real reasons behind insomnia, anxiety, and restless nights.They dive into how your nervous system controls your ability to sleep, why your brain won't shut off at night, and simple techniques you can use immediately to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.From bedtime routines and “sleep hygiene” to the psychology of storytelling and meditation, this episode gives you practical tools to calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and finally get better rest.If you've ever struggled with overthinking at night, waking up at 3AM, or feeling wired when you should be tired—this one's for you.___________________________________________________________________________________________________TEXT us your questions at 718-306-3906!The goodsugar store is the epitome of cool, nestled at 3rd avenue + 69th street!
The host of Selected Shorts, Meg Wolitzer launches the spin-off podcast, Tell Me More. If you know Selected Shorts you know that we're obsessed with stories. This new show will give us the chance to talk about many different kinds of stories—not just fiction! In the future, we'll talk to actors and journalists and, who knows, scientists, visual artists, even chefs. Creative people all tell stories of some kind, and this is our chance to look behind the scenes and find out how those stories get made.On this episode, podcaster and author Kathryn Nicolai of Nothing Much Happens joins Meg. The title of her podcast tells you a lot of what you need to know. Her show is entirely fiction written and performed for occasional insomniacs who need something calming in their ear at night to help them fall asleep. In their conversation, they get into the power of sleep, and the power of stories, and they unpack a curious condition in which people literally cannot picture things in their minds. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the Nothing Much Happens podcast, learns at an early age to diminish her own needs. She never wants to become a problem for other people, so she pretends like she's always okay. When she gets an opportunity to study abroad in Italy, a difficult experience with her host family causes her to retreat further into herself. It's only when she feels the compassionate concern of someone who tells her it's okay to have needs that she learns that it's okay to take up space. Each episode of Meditative Story combines the emotional pull of first-person storytelling with immersive music and gentle mindfulness prompts. Read the transcript for this story: meditativestory.comSign up for the Meditative Story newsletter: https://meditativestory.com/subscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Our stories today take us near and far in the Village of Nothing Much. We’ll start downtown in Mornings at the Coffee Shop, where we’ll fight off the cold with hot drinks and care for our neighbors. Then we’ll travel out to the chalet on the mountain in Fresh Snow for out of doors fun and evening recouping around the fire pit. Finally, we’ll come back to town for an impromptu meal in the diner on the corner in Out to Breakfast. Order your own NMH weighted pillow now! Fine and Raw Pistachio Cream Follow us on Instagram. Enjoy over $100 in savings with Kathryn’s curated Nothing Much Happens Wind-Down Box! This soothing collection features hand-selected products from our incredible partners to help you relax and unwind: Eversio Wellness: Chill Now Vellabox: Lavender Silk Candle Alice Mushrooms: Nightcap Nutrachamps: Tart Cherry Gummies A Brighter Year: Mini Coloring Book NuStrips: Sleep Strips Woolzies: Lavender Roll-On Transform your evenings with these thoughtfully chosen favorites designed for ultimate relaxation. Subscribe for ad-free, bonus, and extra-long episodes now, as well as ad-free and early episodes of Stories from the Village of Nothing Much! Search for NMH Premium channel on Apple podcast or follow the link belownothingmuchhappens.com/premium-subscription. Visit nothingmuchhappens.com for more Village fun.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our stories today take us near and far in the Village of Nothing Much. We’ll start downtown in Mornings at the Coffee Shop, where we’ll fight off the cold with hot drinks and care for our neighbors. Then we’ll travel out to the chalet on the mountain in Fresh Snow for out of doors fun and evening recouping around the fire pit. Finally, we’ll come back to town for an impromptu meal in the diner on the corner in Out to Breakfast. Order your own NMH weighted pillow now! Fine and Raw Pistachio Cream Follow us on Instagram. Enjoy over $100 in savings with Kathryn’s curated Nothing Much Happens Wind-Down Box! This soothing collection features hand-selected products from our incredible partners to help you relax and unwind: Eversio Wellness: Chill Now Vellabox: Lavender Silk Candle Alice Mushrooms: Nightcap Nutrachamps: Tart Cherry Gummies A Brighter Year: Mini Coloring Book NuStrips: Sleep Strips Woolzies: Lavender Roll-On Transform your evenings with these thoughtfully chosen favorites designed for ultimate relaxation. Subscribe for ad-free, bonus, and extra-long episodes now, as well as ad-free and early episodes of Stories from the Village of Nothing Much! Search for NMH Premium channel on Apple podcast or follow the link belownothingmuchhappens.com/premium-subscription. Visit nothingmuchhappens.com for more Village fun.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Doro and Trica welcome author and podcaster Kathryn Nicolai to discuss the importance of bedtime stories and their calming effects on sleep. They talk about her work: collections of stories that she reads aloud to help her listeners fall asleep. Her podcast combines the art of storytelling with the healing power of mindfulness, offering a retreat for the mind, with an intended medicinal effect. Kathryn shares insights into her creative process and the intimate connections she bridges with listeners, most touchingly of those who use her work in hospice care. The conversation also touches on the significance of community. Kathryn's focus on sleep as a foundation for good health mirrors her belief that creativity is a practice, something that can be developed over time with consistent effort and intention, and she encourages listeners to explore mindfulness, self-care, and connection through storytelling.
Learning from the host of one of the top sleep podcasts in the world today. Yes. It's a dream come true that I get to talk to Kathryn Nicolai who is the host of Nothing Much Happens, my favorite sleep podcast that I use at least once a week to fall asleep. She has some amazing insights into how to serve your listeners, which will then help your show grow. Here are some of the insights Kathryn shares during our conversation: Creativity is a practice Your listeners notice when your main priority is to serve Know what your listener needs and give it to them Meet people where they are Stop waiting to feel ready, start now Topics discussed in this episode include: Podcasts on YouTube Serving your podcast listeners Starting a podcast Making money from your podcast Connecting with podcast listeners Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:33) Get to know Kathryn (04:56) Creativity as a practice (06:26) Serving your listeners (09:06) Why people love Nothing Much Happens (12:43) Responsibility to the listeners (16:03) The podcast on YouTube (17:36) Money side of the podcast (22:48) Donating to charity weekly (24:58) Writing the stories (28:15) Advice for podcasters (30:51) What Andi learned from this chat Links: Nothing Much Happens website: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com/ The podcast Kathryn talked about at the beginning of our conversation is called Bad Women: The Blackout Ripper: https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/bad-women-the-ripper-retold Friendly Podcast Guide on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendlypodcastguide/
Season 14, Episode 29 Our story tonight is called New Owners at the Orchard, and it a story about a beloved spot in the village, getting fresh life as apple season is about to begin. It's also about gathering baskets, pumpkins turning orange in their patch, a push broom leaned against the side of a barn and the joy of making something old, new again. We give to a different charity each week, and this week, we are giving to Humble Design Detroit. They change lives and communities by custom designing and fully furnishing home interiors for individuals, families, and veterans emerging from homelessness. Subscribe for ad-free, bonus, and extra-long episodes now, as well as ad-free and early episodes of Stories from the Village of Nothing Much! Search for the NMH Premium channel on Apple Podcasts or follow the link: nothingmuchhappens.com/premium-subscription. Save over $100 on Kathryn's hand-selected wind-down favorites with the Nothing Much Happens Wind-Down Box. A collection of products from our amazing partners: Eversio Wellness: Chill Now Vellabox: Lavender Silk Candle Alice Mushrooms: Nightcap NutraChamps: Tart Cherry Gummies A Brighter Year: Mini Coloring Book NuStrips: Sleep Strips Woolzies: Lavender Roll-On Listen to our new show, Stories from the Village of Nothing Much, on your favorite podcast app. Join us tomorrow morning for a meditation at nothingmuchhappens.com/first-this. Purchase Our Book: https://bit.ly/Nothing-Much-HappensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our story tonight is called At the Diamond, and it's a story about a warm day, stretched out on a blanket under a tree. It's also about jumping through a sprinkler on soft green grass, a dried flower with blue petals, and a home run hit out past center field. Subscribe for ad-free, bonus, and extra-long episodes now, as well as ad-free and early episodes of Stories from the Village of Nothing Much! Search for the NMH Premium channel on Apple Podcasts or follow the link: nothingmuchhappens.com/premium-subscription. Save over $100 on Kathryn's hand-selected wind-down favorites with the Nothing Much Happens Wind-Down Box. A collection of products from our amazing partners: Eversio Wellness: Chill Now Vellabox: Lavender Silk Candle Alice Mushrooms: Nightcap NutraChamps: Tart Cherry Gummies A Brighter Year: Mini Coloring Book NuStrips: Sleep Strips Woolzies: Lavender Roll-On Listen to our new show, Stories from the Village of Nothing Much, on your favorite podcast app. Join us tomorrow morning for a meditation at nothingmuchhappens.com/first-this. Purchase Our Book: https://bit.ly/Nothing-Much-HappensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I've had many incredible women join me in conversation for many Loving Later Life episodes. As you may remember, with each guest, I ask the same 3 questions at the end of each conversation: 1. What for you have been the most rewarding things about getting older? 2. What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in your life. 3. With all that you have learned, what life advice would you pass along? In this anniversary episode I put together a highlight reel of their answers, taking one question at a time. Listening to this again you will be reminded of the wisdom they shared. There is gold in them there conversations! Take a listen and share it forward!
Kathryn Nicolai's podcast "Nothing Much Happens" was literally a life-changer for me, as I've been able to have more consistent and restful sleep night after night. I couldn't recommend it more highly. (From 10/20/20).KATHRYN NICOLAI, the Michigan-based writer and creator of the enormously successful podcast Nothing Much Happens, is an architect of coziness, writing soothing stories that both ease the reader into peaceful sleep and teach the principals of mindfulness so that waking hours likewise become sweet and serene. She leans on her seventeen years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher to seamlessly blend storytelling with brain training techniques that build better sleep habits over time. She is the owner of Ethos Yoga.
This episode originally aired in July of 2022, and is encore worthy! Kathryn is the creator of the enormously successful podcast Nothing Much Happens and the author of the book of the same name. Nothing Much Happens is consistently ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts in the world and has received over 65 million downloads. Kathryn seamlessly blends storytelling with brain training methods that build better sleep habits over time. And imagine …wait till you hear about this… doing all of this not being able to picture a person's face or see things in her mind. Not be missed take-ways: 1. Stop waiting to feel ready. There's no time to wait to feel ready. 2. If there's something you're passionate about, something you're excited about stop wasting time and go do it. 3. When in doubt, do what you were going to do first, especially if you're a second guesser or an over thinker. 4. People aged 60 + have the most difficulty sleeping. 5. There's an old zen saying: you open the front door and you open the back door you let thoughts move through but you don't sit them down and invite them to tea. 6. Sleep affects everything. It's so foundational to our health. If we're not sleeping everything is endangered. 7. If you're a little older and you feel like you have a dream that you haven't pursued yet, it's not too late! But get started. Start making it happen!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.Pod Crashing episode 300 with Kathryn Nicolai From Stories From The Village Of Nothing In the Village of Nothing Much, everyday life is full of glimmers of ordinary magic. From the Inn on the Lake to the Farmer's Market, from the bookshop in downtown to the cabin in the woods, enjoy soothing stories that lean into small pleasures and celebrate community. Based on the enormously popular podcast Nothing Much Happens, these family-friendly stories are an antidote to anxiety and a dose of simple goodness. Listen on your commute, on a walk, or whenever you want to visit a place where people are kind and simple things are enjoyed. Episodes here: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-stories-from-the-village-128416239/
Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the Nothing Much Happens podcast, learns at an early age to diminish her own needs. She never wants to become a problem for other people, so she pretends like she's always okay. When she gets an opportunity to study abroad in Italy, a difficult experience with her host family causes her to retreat further into herself. It's only when she feels the compassionate concern of someone who tells her it's okay to have needs that she learns that it's okay to take up space.Listen to Ginger Zee's Meditative Story, "I'm not just observing the winds, I'm riding them": https://listen.meditativestory.com/GingerZeePIOListen to Nothing Much Happens: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.comListen to Kathryn's short meditation podcast, First This: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com/first-thisFind Kathryn's book, Nothing Much Happens: Cozy and Calming Stories to Soothe Your Mind and Help You Sleep: https://bookshop.org/p/books/nothing-much-happens-cozy-and-calming-stories-to-soothe-your-mind-and-help-you-sleep-kathryn-nicolai/14382227?ean=9780143135913If this episode resonates with you, we'd love to hear from you. Please take a moment to share your reflections by rating and reviewing Meditative Story in your podcast player. It helps other listeners find their way to show, and we'd be so grateful.Each episode of Meditative Story combines the emotional pull of first-person storytelling with immersive music and gentle mindfulness prompts. Read the transcript for this story: meditativestory.comSign up for the Meditative Story newsletter: https://meditativestory.com/subscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. You can find our book, "Nothing Much Happens," in over 20 languages. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. You can find our book, "Nothing Much Happens," in over 20 languages. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. You can find our book, "Nothing Much Happens," in over 20 languages. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you've been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A very sleepy original story about a sunset stroll on Sleep Mountain with the old man, Bodhi and Ninja. Tonight's episode from Sleep Mountain is an original story by Evelyn Rivers and me called The Hidden Forest of Dreams. I'll be reading it twice, the first time will have some gentle music and sleepy sounds in the background, the second time through will be just the story a little slower, much the same way Kathryn Nicolai does with her original stories about the village of Nothing Much in her wonderful bedtime story podcast, Nothing Much Happens. She has been such an inspiration and a friend to me and if you haven't yet heard her podcast, I highly recommend it. You can find it at https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com. It's your support that allows me to be your bedtime storyteller and meditation guide. For just $4.99 a month, you'll have immediate access to the entire archive of over 350 episodes and all the weekly stories & meditations a day earlier. By popular request, you can now listen to the stories, meditations and audiobook chapters all organized into their own separate, easy-to-use feeds. Even on Spotify. :). To join or learn more, visit https://listentosleep.supportingcast.fm. You can also leave a tip or buy a shareable audiobook of the longer books I read on Listen To Sleep Plus. It's a great way to support the podcast and get some extra bedtime stories without a monthly subscription. Each one is available to own for just $5.50 as chapterized mp3s that will play on any MP3 player. You can find them at https://www.listentosleep.com/store. Sleep well.
In this original story for the Sleep Mountain series, we'll spend a warm autumn day with mama bear and her cubs in the madrone grove across the canyon. In 2023, every month, I'm going to read at least one original story for you that I wrote myself. The stories are about life here on the mountain, ours as well as all the animals, with some fiction and maybe even a little fantasy woven in. For these episodes, I'll be reading each story twice, once at my normal pace and then once again a bit slower, much the same way Kathryn Nicolai does with her original stories about the village of Nothing Much in her wonderful bedtime story podcast, Nothing Much Happens. She has been such an inspiration and a friend to me and if you haven't yet heard her podcast, I highly recommend it. You can find it at https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com. It's your support that allows me to be your bedtime storyteller and meditation guide. For just $4.99 a month, you'll have immediate access to the entire archive of over 350 episodes and all the weekly stories & meditations a day earlier. By popular request, you can now listen to the stories, meditations and audiobook chapters all organized into their own separate, easy-to-use feeds. Even on Spotify. :). To join or learn more, visit https://listentosleep.supportingcast.fm. You can also leave a tip or buy a shareable audiobook of the longer books I read on Listen To Sleep Plus. It's a great way to support the podcast and get some extra bedtime stories without a monthly subscription. Each one is available to own for just $5.50 as chapterized mp3s that will play on any MP3 player. You can find them at https://www.listentosleep.com/store. Sleep well.
In this original story for the Listen To Sleep Mountain series, we'll share the peace and quiet of a typical autumn morning here on the mountain with the sound of the creek in the background. In 2023, every month, I'm going to read at least one original story for you that I wrote myself. The stories are about life here on the mountain, ours as well as all the animals, with some fiction and maybe even a little fantasy woven in. For these episodes, I'll be reading each story twice, once at my normal pace and then once again a bit slower, much the same way Kathryn Nicolai does with her original stories about the village of Nothing Much in her wonderful bedtime story podcast, Nothing Much Happens. She has been such an inspiration and a friend to me and if you haven't yet heard her podcast, I highly recommend it. You can find it at https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com. To get 40% your new AirDoctor air purifier, use code LISTENTOSLEEP at https://airdoctorpro.com. When you join my free newsletter, every month I'll send you a story about something I've learned living here on the mountain along with some tips to help you get a better night's sleep and a little more peace during the day. You'll also get a free sleepy audiobook and a relaxing 30 minute recording of the creek behind my cabin when you join. Just go to https://www.listentosleep.com/blog/category/newsletter/. If the podcast helps you sleep, would you consider supporting it with $3 a month? You'll get two weekly episodes a day earlier with no ads or introductions and an immediate download of the Alice's Adventures in Wonderland audiobook. For another $2 a month, you'll get an extra story every week that's just for supporters. You can join or find more information at https://www.listentosleep.com/support/. You can also leave a tip or buy a shareable audiobook of the longer books I read on Listen To Sleep Plus. It's a great way to support the podcast and get some extra bedtime stories without a monthly subscription. Each one is available to own for just $5.50 as chapterized mp3s that will play on any MP3 player. You can find them at https://www.listentosleep.com/store. Sleep well.
In this original story for the inaugural episode of the Listen To Sleep Mountain series, we'll follow a flock of band-tailed pigeons on their 900 mile migration from Vancouver to the oak forests of Northern California. In 2023, every month, I'm going to read at least one original story for you that I wrote myself. The stories are about life here on the mountain, ours as well as all the animals, with some fiction and maybe even a little fantasy woven in. For these episodes, I'll be reading each story twice, once at my normal pace and then once again a bit slower, much the same way Kathryn Nicolai does with her original stories about the village of Nothing Much in her wonderful bedtime story podcast, Nothing Much Happens. She has been such an inspiration and a friend to me and if you haven't yet heard her podcast, I highly recommend it. You can find it at https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com. To book your free quick-fix coaching session with Kari, go to https://www.listentosleep.com/discovery. When you join my free newsletter, every month I'll send you a story about something I've learned living here on the mountain along with some tips to help you get a better night's sleep and a little more peace during the day. You'll also get a free sleepy audiobook and a relaxing 30 minute recording of the creek behind my cabin when you join. Just go to https://www.listentosleep.com/blog/category/newsletter/. If the podcast helps you sleep, would you consider supporting it with $3 a month? You'll get two weekly episodes a day earlier with no ads or introductions and an immediate download of the Alice's Adventures in Wonderland audiobook. For another $2 a month, you'll get an extra story every week that's just for supporters. You can join or find more information at https://www.listentosleep.com/support/. You can also leave a tip or buy a shareable audiobook of the longer books I read on Listen To Sleep Plus. It's a great way to support the podcast and get some extra bedtime stories without a monthly subscription. Each one is available to own for just $5.50 as chapterized mp3s that will play on any MP3 player. You can find them at https://www.listentosleep.com/store. Sleep well.