Podcasts about personal storytelling

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling," where we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talk about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be. In this episode, I'm joined by Amber Patterson, Regional Director of Admission at Texas Christian University. This conversation does two things at once. We read a real student essay closely, line by line, and we get inside an admission reader's head to understand what's actually landing as she reads through it. We get into: What Amber hopes to learn about a student when she sits down with their personal statement Why TCU has chosen not to use any AI to read applications, and the human moments she says a machine can't pick up How the reading process actually works at TCU  A full breakdown of an essay called "The Silent Assassin," starting with Amber's take on why a clever hook may matter less than students think How to nest a small, everyday challenge inside a larger essay (the hybrid structure), and how a common challenge can be than enough How to subtly weave an extracurricular activity into your essay, and how to actually use the additional information section Amber's honest take on AI for students: where it helps, and where to avoid it Amber Patterson is a first generation, non-traditional college student who earned her Bachelor's degree in Ethnic Studies from Cal State East Bay and a Master of Human Relations degree in Inclusive Leadership from the University of Oklahoma. After a decade as a college counselor in California public high schools, she moved into higher ed and now serves as Regional Director of Admission at Texas Christian University. She has served on WACAC's Executive Board and currently chairs Professional Development for the Regional Admission Counselors of California. What she loves most about this work is helping students find their path to higher education and fostering an environment where every student's unique experiences are valued. I loved this conversation, and Amber's care for students comes through in every answer. I hope you enjoy it too.   Play-by-Play: 2:21 –  What is often happening in admission offices in June? 3:43 – What does Amber look for in a personal statement?  5:05 – What is the application reading process like at TCU and what is the role of the personal statement?  8:59 – What conversations are happening in the TCU admissions office around using AI for application review? 12:56 – What is the human "feeling" a great essay creates, and why is it so hard to teach a machine to find it?  15:34 – Do college essays need titles? 17:10 – Amber reads the essay, which we're calling "The Silent Assassin"  21:40 – Why does a clever hook matter less than students think? 24:42 – How does the author show leadership qualities through the essay?  26:58 – Why is "show, don't tell" an effective storytelling technique for college essays? 31:39 – How can students nest a challenge into the essay without it being the whole story? 36:40 – When should students weave an activity into the personal statement? 39:51 – Where is it best for students to mention their intended major? 41:00 – What can students include in the additional information section?  43:54 – What does the admission reader learn about the student through their proudest moment in high school?  50:01 – How much information might an admission reader catch in a quick read?  51:58 – What advice does Amber have for students around AI use? 54:15 – What does Amber hope that students will keep in mind throughout this process? 55:19 – Closing thoughts  Resources: The "Silent Assassin" Essay Should I Discuss Mental Health in My Personal Statement or College Application? (And If So, How)?  512: Navigating Mental Health Disclosures in the College Application: The Counselor Perspective  513: Navigating Mental Health Disclosures in the College Application: The Admission Officer Perspective 514: Navigating Mental Health Disclosures in the College Application: The Student Perspective  How to Use the Common App Additional Information section and Challenges and Circumstances section: Guide + Examples | College Essay Guy College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." where we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.  In this episode, I'm joined by Hillary Dickman, Senior Assistant Director of Admission at Colorado College. In past episodes, we've really broken down these essays and gotten into the nooks and crannies of what makes them work. But in this episode, I really wanted to get a sense of how Hillary sees essays from an admission reader's perspective. We get into:  What Hillary hopes to learn about a student when she sits down to read their essay What a great essay can do that the rest of the application can't How much essays matter and whether or not that's changed over the last few years. Why Colorado College does not have any AI reading essays or applications and doesn't have plans to. She gives us an inside look at what it's like having your essay read in committee by as many as 13 people, and There's a moment in the episode where she imagines that I'm the co-reader reading the application with her and gives me the notes that she would give on the student if I was in the admission office with her. I loved our conversation. I hope you enjoy it too. Hillary Dickman is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area and holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Speech Communication from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She began her career in higher education teaching at the University of Cincinnati and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Since 2021, she's been part of the admission team at Colorado College, and has also navigated the college admission process as a parent — her older daughter is a recent graduate of Wellesley College, and her younger one is a student at Colorado College.   Play-by-Play: 2:12 – What is often happening in admission offices during April and May? 3:14 – When Hillary reads a college essay, what is she hoping to learn about a student? 4:55 – What can a great essay do that the other parts of the application cannot? 6:05 – Hillary sets context for the essay and the student who wrote it. 7:35 – Hillary reads the essay, which we're calling, "Where I Grew Up." 11:59 – How does the author explore community building through this essay?  15:09 – What is the benefit to orienting the reader towards the topic early in the essay?  17:43 – Hillary describes the process of reading applications in teams and presenting files to a partner. 20:35 – Hillary breaks down how an admissions committee works. 24:15 – Hillary shares what makes it easy to advocate for a student and why real self-reflection stands out. 26:23 – Ethan and Hillary break down why a recurring theme and unique details  can make your essay stand out when admissions officers are reading quickly. 31:12 – Why does Colorado College choose not to use AI systems to read student applications? 35:23 – How do small, specific memories keep an admissions officer engaged in your story? 40:06 – Does Hillary see the importance or role of the college essay changing in the future? 46:43 – What does Hillary love about her job? 49:12 – Closing thoughts Resources: "Where I Grew Up" Essay State of College Admission - National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) What do colleges look for in students?   College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." In this series, we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.  In this episode, we break down an essay that is one of my new favorites. It's conceptually rich because even though it's on molding clay, it could be considered any of these montage types: I love/I know, Essence Objects, Skills/Superpower, Identity, Home, or Uncommon extracurricular activity. That's not a goal I'm suggesting you pursue, by the way, just interesting to note. To discuss it, I'm joined by Calvin Pickett, the Director of Essay Coaching here at CEG. Calvin has been a college essay coach for more than eight years, and a lover of words and stories since he can remember. Calvin studied English Literature at Vassar before earning his master's in Secondary English Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. He believes in the potential for this college essay writing process to be transformational for students, and loves helping them see and shape their own stories in ways that empower self-knowledge and self confidence and lead to exciting college opportunities.  If you're a craft nerd at heart (the kind of person who watches behind-the-scenes footage twice), I hope you'll feel right at home.  We hope you enjoy!   Play-by-Play:  2:16 – Calvin sets context for the essay and the student who wrote it  3:40 – Calvin reads the essay, "Molding Clay"   9:23 – How did the author come up with her topic?  11:21 – Calvin and Ethan discuss the first paragraph and how it grounds the reader 14:31 – How does the author use insight in her second paragraph to convey details that might not be elsewhere in her application? 18:49 – How do the author's core values guide her metaphors and examples throughout the essay? 20:53 – What is a montage essay and how did the author decide on which parts to include in the final draft?  23:47 – What is the balance between "showing" or "telling" in a college essay?  29:26 – How does the author's unique voice help her stand out?  32:52 – How can students weave in parts of a challenge or narrative into their montage essay? 38:31 – How important is a strong closing paragraph? 42:43 – What are some key concepts from this essay that students can apply to their own writing? 48:31 – Why might students choose to avoid AI in the college essay writing process?  51:40 – Closing thoughts    Resources: "Molding Clay" Essay College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." In this series, we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.   In this episode, we share an essay that begins: "Robes are the textile version of comfort food; they're my chicken noodle soup." And it is indeed about the different robes the student wears and how each one reveals a different aspect of who the author is.  I'm joined today by Andrew Callery, a college counselor at Detroit Country Day School who aside from his work helping his students tell their stories has, for the past 9 years, in his free time volunteered in our Matchlighters Scholars Program, where we pair high-achieving, low-income students with amazing counselors for 10 hours of free one-on-one support. If you are a high-achieving low-income student applying to college this year or are a counselor interested in volunteering, we'd love to have you.  In today's episode, Andrew and I get into:  Where this idea came from in the first place How the student chose which different sides of herself to focus on How students can briefly weave a learning difference into a single paragraph Two tips for sticking the landing when it comes to the ending of your personal statement If you're the kind of person who enjoys seeing how things get made, whether it's a great meal, a film scene, or a piece of writing, I have a feeling you might enjoy this one. Andrew Callery (he/him) is a graduate of Villanova University (B.A.) and the University of San Francisco (M.A.), where he studied Psychology with an emphasis in counseling. He's worked in both public and private high schools as a counselor and loves helping students craft essays that are genuine reflections of their lived experience. He uses active listening techniques to help students uncover unique ideas for essays that capture various aspects of their identity, values, challenges overcome and lessons learned, all the while blending in a healthy dose of humor and empathy. Andrew has worked for a number of years as an admissions reader with a highly selective institution, and has read thousands of essays as a result. He's currently working as a full-time college counselor at an independent school near Detroit, where he lives with his wife and two children.  Enjoy. Play-by-Play: 2:47 – Andrew introduces the "robes" essay and the brainstorming exercise that inspired it. 4:41 – What are the benefits of brainstorming and "going broad" with early ideas? 5:57 – Andrew reads the essay, "Robes"  11:26 – What stands out for Andrew in reading the essay today? 12:25 – How did Andrew help the student identify the core values and life experiences to include in her essay? 17:22 – How does a simple, relatable metaphor immediately ground the reader in the student's world? 19:40 – How did the student weave in her experience with dyslexia without making it the central focus of her essay? 23:17 – What questions can students ask themselves to turn a simple anecdote into a meaningful "so what" moment? 26:02 – How can students weave in extracurricular achievements without sounding like they are bragging? 31:35 – How can a student effectively balance personal interests with academic goals in an essay? 35:27 – How did the student's love for thrifting from the 21 Details exercise become a metaphor for her interest in sustainable engineering? 39:28 – How can focusing on the future help a student find the right way to end their essay? 42:32 – What does Andew  enjoy most about working with students on essays? 44:16 – Closing thoughts   Resources: "Robes" essay  Admission Nutrients The Roles & Identities Exercise 21 Details Exercise  College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

How Does the Church Sings Through Suffering and Why Do the Songs Matter?   Grammy Award nominee and Dove Award winner Matt Maher joins the Good Faith podcast for a conversation about the power of songs and church music to tell the truth about suffering. Reflecting on protest, justice, prophetic art, ecumenism, and even Rich Mullins, Maher explores how the church can hold lament and praise together while still pointing people to the hope and holiness of God. Drawing on Psalm 22 and Jesus' cry of abandonment on the cross, he argues that the church, like Jesus, must sing honestly about pain and abandonment without losing sight of the worship and honor God deserves.   *This episode was recorded live at the Illuminate Arts + Faith Conference   00:00:00  - Tease: The Duality of Abandonment and Praise 00:01:00 - Introduction from Curtis Chang 05:31 - Conversion and the Impact of Catholic Liturgy on His Faith 08:13 - Theology in Songwriting and Collaboration 09:57- Can Ecumenism Expand Your Perspective? 13:06 - John 17 and Praying for Church Unity  14:35 - Prophetic Calling Comforts the Afflicted and Challenges the Comfortable 16:38 - Protest Themes and the Burden of Truth 20:30 - Holding Space for Both Praise and Lament 21:55 - Christian Justice Movements and Prophetic Action 24:02 - The After Party Album and Amos's Call to Justice 24:11 - That He Will Overcome (musical insert) 26:29 - The Toppling of Empire Lyrics as Inspired by Dr. Mika Edmonson 29:04 - The Neurological and Physical Impact of Music on Memory and Community 34:03 - Personal Storytelling and Lament To Work Out Hard Things 40:00 - Rich Mullins' Influence and Legacy 41:24 - What Is The Song the Church Needs Now, In These Crazy Times? 43:48 - A Warning From Nazi Germany Against Ignoring Suffering   Take the Listener Survey Sign up for The After Party Sign up for The Good List   Mentioned In This Episode: The Nicene Creed and the History of the Council of Nicaea Matt Maher's Echoes album (Spotify) Matt Maher's Your Grace Is Enough Matt Maher's The Stories I Tell Myself Matt Maher's The Stories I Tell Myself (Acoustic video) Matt Maher, DOE, Dee Wilson, & The Porter's Gate's That We Might Overcome Listen to the album The Kingdom of Jesus: Songs For The After Party Rich Mullins' Canticle of The Plains (full album on Youtube) Rich Mullins' The Joy of Jesus (feat. Matt Maher, Mac Powell, & Ellie Holcomb) More about Francis Chan   Scriptures Referenced: Psalm 22 (ESV) John 17 (ESV) John 14:6 (ESV) Amos 5-6 (ESV)   More from Matt Maher: See Matt on tour Matt Maher's website Subscribe to Matt's email list Listen to Matt Maher on Spotify   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.  

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling" where we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.  In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Wendy Zheutlin, who is not only one of my essay coaches but has been a volunteer for the past four years with our Matchlighters Scholars Program. This is the program where we pair high-achieving, low-income students with amazing counselors for 10 hours of free one-on-one support. And if that sounds interesting to you, whether you are a student or a counselor, we'll link in the show notes where you can find out more. This episode is a rare opportunity. Whereas normally we break down essays written by students, this was actually a personal statement written by Wendy herself as part of a course that I led for counselors. So this is her own personal statement, not written for applying to college, and it's one of my favorite essays. We talk about what it was like for Wendy, who doesn't identify as a writer, to write this story, a few techniques she uses to communicate a lot in just a few words, and that ineffable moment when you figure out what a story is about.  If you're the kind of person who enjoys seeing how things get made, whether it's a great meal, a film scene, or a piece of writing, I have a feeling you might enjoy this one. Wendy Zheutlin works independently and with CEG as a college essay coach.  After earning her BA in psychology from UCSC and her MA in film from Stanford, Wendy went on to work on social issue documentaries in film and TV. While raising her family, Wendy worked in both an elementary school and public library.  Open and honest, Wendy builds trust and provides a safe environment in which students can begin a joyful journey of self-reflection and discovery as they write college essays that capture their spirit, their values, their experiences that engage readers.   Enjoy.     Play-by-Play: 2:04 – What is Wendy's background, and what motivated her to experience the essay process from the "inside out"?  4:27 – Wendy reads her personal statement, "Raspberry Sky."   11:45 – What was the writing process like for Wendy?   15:14 – How can short, factual sentences create a more impactful story?  18:11 – How did reading children's picture books influence Wendy's approach?   19:17 – How does the plum blossom motif serve as a metaphor for new beginnings? 21:58 – How can contrast show the different sides of a hard experience? 26:13 – What did Wendy discover about her story through multiple revisions? 28:31 – Why is subtle humor a useful tool when sharing a difficult experience? 30:21 – How can a writer identify the "orienting moment" or core message of a story? 36:18 – How can parentheticals be used to pack a lot of detail into a short section? 39:48 – What advice does Wendy offer for writing about difficult experiences? 43:27 – How can the process of "meaning making" help both the author and reader discover something new? 44:54 – What does the essay's conclusion reveal about growth? 48:48 – Closing thoughts    Resources: "Raspberry Sky" Essay Matchlighters Scholars Program College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

Hello to you listening in Create Space, Langley, Washington!  Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga. Not too very long ago I saw a man wearing a tee shirt with these words: “Many things in life will catch your eye but only a few will catch your heart. Follow those.” He was gone before I could ask him: What's the story behind your tee shirt?  How did you come to have it? What things in life have caught your eye? What caught your heart? And when you followed those what happened next? Today more than ever women need the stories that catch their heart. The storytelling tradition is alive in you. Each time you share a story, you've grown. You catch something new. You see yourself differently. As a woman navigating a professional world that doesn't always invite your full story, you may have learned to edit yourself — to show up with credentials and minimize the rest. But your personal narrative is your most powerful asset. It connects, persuades, inspires, and leads. You don't have to wait for permission to tell your story. This is your invitation to discover the stories shaping your life, and to unlock the full power and energy of your voice. Because when women tell their true stories, they don't just change the room. They change what's possible. Your voice is ready. Are you? CTA: I'll be offering more classes on The Art & Craft of Telling Personal Stories at Create Space, at gatherings on Whidbey Island, and online. Learn more here and on Substack as we build a story community of women for women.   And thank you for listening! You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. AND!  Stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website during re-construction, check out the Communication Services, email me to arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as Quarter Moon Story Arts on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production Team Podcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story Arts Music: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music ALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.  

Gugs Mhlungu speaks to Joy Watson, Senior associate at the Independent consultant, Feminist researcher and Writer, about her book Because I Love You. They unpack themes of emotional erasure within relationships, identity, and what it means to question your own reality and begin the journey of healing and self-reclamation. Gugs Mhlungu gets you ready for the weekend each Saturday and Sunday morning on 702. She is your weekend wake-up companion, with all you need to know for your weekend. The topics Gugs covers range from lifestyle, family, health, and fitness to books, motoring, cooking, culture, and what is happening on the weekend in 702land. Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu. Listen live on Primedia+ on Saturdays and Sundays from 06:00 and 10:00 (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/u3Sf7Zy or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BIXS7AL Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heather McMahan is a beloved comedian, actress and podcast host who's currently performing across the country on The Bamboozled Tour. In this conversation from April 2025, McMahan sits down with Jenna to reflect on her rise from performing at her junior prom to headlining national tours, how Joan Rivers influenced her career and how social media helped take her career to the next level. Plus, she opens up about the loss of her father and how humor became a form of healing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Show Notes:   Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling. In this series, we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.  In this episode, we break down an essay on… wait for it… baseball. Wait, what? But Ethan, I thought writing about a common topic was a fast track to blending in. And yes—in many cases, it can be. But this essay offers a great example of how a familiar topic can become something more layered, specific, and personal. To dig into how that happens, I'm joined by Kaila Barber: essay coach at CEG, Associate Director of 1-on-1 Coaching, and professional track star. Together, we explore how to stand out with a common topic, how to weave in challenge without letting it take over the story, and one specific technique for crafting a strong, memorable ending. If you're the kind of person who enjoys seeing how things get made, whether it's a great meal, a film scene, or a piece of writing, I have a feeling you'll enjoy this one. Kaila Barber has been helping students prepare for college in various capacities since 2018. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a master's degree in Global Health, a bachelor's degree in PreProfessional Science, and a minor in Education, Schooling, and Society, Kaila decided to serve her local school district as an educational assistant. For two years, she worked closely with students who had learning differences, tailoring lesson plans and materials to better suit the needs of her students. Kaila enjoys walking side-by-side with students, guiding them through their memories and insights, while they discover new ways to make meaning from their lives that can be highlighted in creative and compelling essays.  We hope you enjoy.    Play-by-Play: 2:07 – Who is the student behind the essay, and what made his approach to a sports topic stand out? 4:44 – Kaila reads the essay we're calling, "The Stains on My Baseball Pants" 8:40 – What stands out about the essay's use of showing vs. telling? 10:27 – How did the essay evolve from a baseball topic into a montage centered on stains? 12:56 – How does the essay incorporate themes of identity and belonging without making them the central focus? 15:38 – How were the different "stains" chosen to represent key parts of the student's story? 19:52 – What does the kimbap stain reveal about family, culture, and leadership? 22:00 – What does the dirt stain reveal about growth, belonging, and identity? 26:57 – What new role or identity is revealed through the eye black blotch paragraph? 31:51 – What does the "parents' pilot" metaphor reveal about the student's role in his family? 36:20 – How does the ending bring the theme of "stains" back while highlighting community and belonging? 40:15 – What does Kaila hope students take away from the essay writing process? 41:31 – Closing thoughts    Resources: "The Stains on My Baseball Pants" Essay College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Different Ability® Podcast, Katey and her mom reflect on Chapter 25 of Embracing Your Different Ability® and the power of personal storytelling as a catalyst for advocacy and change. Katey shares how speaking at her great aunt Lynn's celebration of life shaped her confidence as a speaker and reaffirmed her purpose as an advocate.They discuss stepping outside comfort zones, the impact of encouragement from educators, and why sharing personal experiences can open doors, build connection, and inspire others. Katey also highlights the importance of family support, bringing her parents on stage, and how storytelling continues to play a central role in her advocacy work today.

Hi, friends, and welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." In this series, we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be.  In this episode, we explore an essence objects essay, which is to say an essay that was written about objects in the author's room, each one of which reveals a different aspect of their life. I'm joined by Ali McKeon, an essay coach and program advisor here at College Essay Guy. Ali worked with the student who wrote this essay, so she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the process of working with this student, how the topic came to be, plus the questions she asked along the way. For those of you who love seeing how things get made, whether it's a great meal, a film scene, or a piece of writing, this episode offers a little window into that process. Ali McKeon is a writing coach and veteran college admissions essay specialist with a BA in English from Stanford University and MFA from UC Irvine. She is passionate about building her students' confidence in the writing process and developing them into strong self-advocates for their individual learning needs. One of the highlights of her career has been mentoring bright students with learning differences. In addition to teaching, she is an arts entrepreneur, former professional ballet dancer, and mom to a busy toddler. We hope you enjoy.    Play-by-Play: 1:50 – Who is the student behind the essay, and what stood out about working with her? 4:29 – Ali reads the essay, which we're calling "Tiny Windows into My Being"  9:00 – What ideas inspired the student's writing?  10:35 – What makes an "objects in my room" essay stand out? 12:36 – What is an "essence objects" essay, and how does it connect to the montage essay structure? 13:23 – How did the student decide which objects to include in the opening paragraph? 18:02 – How can students weave accomplishments into an essay without sounding like they're bragging? 20:22 – Why does pairing achievements with curiosity strengthen this paragraph? 22:18 – In what ways does the essay show the student is more than just a STEM student? 26:24 – How does the author reflect on her cultural identities? 30:42 – What led the student to include the migraine story in the essay? 36:50 – What makes this essay's ending so effective? 41:26 – What does Ali enjoy most about working with students on essays? 45:21 – Closing thoughts   Resources: "Tiny Windows into My Being" Essay College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

When AI bots can generate endless facts and flawless narratives, what's left for human tour guides? This week Mitch Bach sits down with VoiceMap founder Iain Manley to explore the future of storytelling in travel, from his perspective as a journalist and developer of a self-guided audio tour app powered by human creators. We dive into the power of personal perspective and the new risks of playing it safe with stale, objective facts but no humanity. This episode challenges tour operators to rethink what makes an experience truly unforgettable in 2026—and why being more human, more vulnerable, and even more imperfect might be your competitive advantage.In this episode we cover:Why AI is forcing tour guides to rethink their roleThe difference between information and true storytellingHow “personal” stories can reshape how people see a placeWhy generic, fact-based tours are becoming obsoleteThe surprising way AI is already hurting mediocre toursHow to create experiences AI can't replicateThe power of subjectivity, emotion, and lived experienceWhy taking creative risks is now essential for tour businessesThe hidden danger of optimizing for 5-star reviewsWhat great storytelling looks like in the age of AIAs always, show notes and more resources on tourpreneur.com

Welcome back to the College Essay Guy podcast and our series On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling. I'm one of your cohosts, Tom Campbell, former Pomona and Holy Cross admissions officer, turned essay coach and college counselor. In this series, we look at real personal statements from real students: what choices were made, what was revised, and why it works. For this episode, we sit down with Jane Longley, one of our amazing essay coaches here at CEG, to unpack an essay that one of her student wrote titled "The Pilgrim and The CEO." It tells the story of two challenging yet rewarding experiences central to one student's identity and growth: hiking the Camino and starting her own skincare line. They seem like wildly different journeys in that bite-sized, one sentence description, but as you'll see from the essay, they're anything but disparate. This essay, which seamlessly tells two stories in tandem, is a masterclass on balance. Which is really what college essays are all about. On one side, they should genuinely reflect the student — their voice, their lived experiences, the moments that have shaped how they see the world. On the other, they need to do some real work: helping an admissions reader understand the student's character, values, and potential, and making it easier to advocate for them in committee. We'll walk through key excerpts, unpack the strategic decisions behind them, and share practical insights for counselors, teachers, and anyone guiding students through the writing process. Jane Longley has been an essay coach for eight years. She graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Modern Languages and spent ten years teaching in the UK before moving to Nicaragua, where she has lived for more than two decades. Along the way, Jane trained in Person-centred Therapeutic Counselling and Boarding Education — experiences that inform how she works with students today. As an essay coach, she focuses on helping students clarify their ideas, identify meaningful through-lines in their experiences, and find language that feels precise and authentic. And we, for one, are so glad she's come to share her expertise and her calming British accent with you all.  We hope you enjoy the episode.   Play-by-Play: 2:18 – What is Jane's background in essay coaching?  4:54 – Jane shares context for the essay and what it was like working with the student who wrote it 8:47 – In what ways can brainstorming exercises uncover unexpected topic ideas? 9:49 – How does the values exercise serve as the foundation for an essay? 15:06 – What other brainstorming tools helped shape the student's direction? 18:05 – How did the student's early topic ideas transform into a final product?  21:42 – What influenced the essay's final structure?  29:40 – Jane reads the essay, "The Pilgrim and The CEO" 34:16 – Tom shares his initial thoughts on the essay  35:46 – Jane shares how the author developed the two narratives in the introduction   39:07 – How did the student decide what essential context about the Camino needed to stay? 41:39 – How did authenticity shape the student's decision to include moments of unpreparedness? 44:34 – How did the student identify the specific, vivid details that brought each journey to life? 51:53 – How did collaboration become a central theme across both journeys? 55:20 – How did the student's honest reaction at the end of the Camino strengthen the essay? 59:30 – How does the tone shift from collaboration to appreciation in the final paragraphs? 1:00:53 – How can students revisit the same experience across essays without repeating themselves? 1:03:52 – Closing thoughts    Resources: "The Pilgrim and the CEO" Essay The Values Exercise The Roles and Identities Exercise The 21 Details Exercise The Essence Objects Exercise  College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

Ep # 106: Consistency Over Perfection: Briana Clearly on Making 12 Films in a YearThis episode was recorded live on Saturday February 28th, 2026 at Lumpen Radio.Summary of the episodeIn this live, unedited episode recorded at Lumpen Radio 105.5 FM in Chicago, I sit down with Chicago filmmaker Briana Clearly to talk about what it really means to choose consistency over perfection.Briana took on the ambitious challenge of making 12 films in 12 months — and then turned that experiment into a community-driven initiative called Filmmakers Mixtape. In this conversation, we unpack how committing to one film a month transforms not just your craft, but your mindset.We talk about creative blocks, releasing work before it feels “ready,” building artistic community without ego, and why making good films is actually a side effect — not the point.If you're an artist stuck in perfectionism, a filmmaker craving momentum, or someone who needs a reminder to just make the thing anyway, this episode is for you.What we talk about (you know… casually)Making 12 films in 12 months (and why you don't need money to do it)Why consistency beats perfection every timeBuilding Filmmakers Mixtape from a personal challenge into a cohortHow community makes better art (and better artists)Briana's journey from the Navy to film schoolMentorship, vulnerability, and learning to take feedbackThe dream of friendship-centered dramediesReleasing work publicly — even when it feels scaryThings We MentionedFilmmakers MixtapeLeague of Their Own ChicagoBrain StudiosLumpen RadioAll about... Briana ClearlyYou're gonna love Briana Clearly — she's a collaborative director, community builder, and the creative force behind Filmmakers Mixtape, a 12-month filmmaking challenge designed to help artists prioritize process over perfection.A former Navy sailor turned Chicago-based filmmaker, Briana is deeply committed to telling stories centered on Black women, friendship, and lived experience — always inviting audiences into conversation rather than spectacle.She believes filmmaking is a practice, not a performance. And honestly? That energy is contagious.Chapters: • 00:00 - Introduction to noseyAF• 09:02 - Exploring Filmmaking and Personal Storytelling • 20:54 - Exploring the Dynamics of Friendship in Storytelling • 31:56 - The Birth of Filmmakers Mixtape • 41:32 - The Importance of Vulnerability in Filmmaking • 50:41 - Exploring New Art Practices • 59:01 - The Art of FilmmakingSponsor Shoutout

Jay Ellis is an actor, producer, and author who earned a NAACP Image Award nomination for his role in Peacock's All Her Fault. In this conversation from October 2025, Ellis sits down with Jenna Bush Hager to talk about his memoir Did Everyone Have an Imaginary Friend (or Just Me)?, growing up as an only child in a military family that moved from base to base, and creating an imaginary friend who helped him navigate loneliness and self discovery. Plus, he opens up about his path from aspiring basketball player to Hollywood actor, the lessons creativity has taught him about belonging, and how fatherhood has reshaped the way he sees the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome back to our series, "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." In this series, we take a close look at personal essays written by real students, talking about why we love them, what makes them work, and how they came to be. On Becoming speaks not just to the craft of writing, but to what I believe the personal statement is at its best: a record of becoming, the often messy, hopefully meaningful process of finding yourself… through the process of storytelling. In this episode, we slow things down and focus on a single essay, which the author calls "Much Ado About Nothing." Together, we take this essay apart, looking at the storytelling choices on the page, the deeper ideas underneath them, and how the essay captures a moment in the student's becoming.  Dr. Greg Ungar is a professor at the University of Denver. Greg grew up in California and spent six years working on the assembly line at General Motors before finding his way to college, where reading (and thinking) changed the direction of his life. Greg went on to study philosophy and theatre arts at UC Berkeley, and later earned advanced degrees across a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, criminal justice, acting, and theatre and drama. He's someone who has spent a lifetime thinking deeply about identity, work, class, performance, and what it means to make meaning out of lived experience.  We hope you enjoy.    Play-by-Play: 3:23 – Why do Ethan and Greg love reading stories and poetry together?  5:34 – Do college essays need a title?  6:47 – Greg reads the essay, "Much Ado About Nothing"  12:03 – What does Ethan love about this essay?  13:25 – What did Greg notice while reading?  19:23 – How does the author use structure to keep the reader engaged?  25:02 – How can humor be used in college essays?  30:58 – How does the author show different roles and identities throughout?  40:24 – Closing thoughts   Resources: "Much Ado About Nothing" Essay College Essay Essentials  College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

Welcome to a brand new series here on the podcast I'm calling "On Becoming: The Art and Craft of Personal Storytelling." In this series, we'll dig deep into college essays from past students, talking about why we love them and how they came to be.  For me, this title "On Becoming" speaks not just to the craft of writing (how a story came to be), but to what I believe the personal statement is at its best: a record of becoming… the beautiful, sometimes messy process of witnessing someone learn to better understand themselves, articulate their values, and claim their voice in the world. Whether you're a student, parent, educator, or just someone who loves great stories, we hope there's something here for you. In our first episode, I sit down with Amanda McRaven, a dear friend and one of my first hires at College Essay Guy. In this episode, we dig into: Two of our favorite essays from former students A little behind the scenes of how they came to be, and The techniques that helped these stories reveal truths about the students who wrote them.  Amanda McRaven is an artist, teacher, theater director, and storyteller living in the Pacific Northwest. She's a veteran educator and writer with over 15 years of experience coaching students through the college essay process. But what really sets Amanda apart is her approach. She helps students mine their lives for meaning—to find the gold in seemingly ordinary moments, and to connect the dots between experiences in ways that feel alive, honest, and deeply human.  We hope you enjoy!   Play-by-Play: 3:20 – Something these two essays have in common 4:32 – How does Amanda help students find creative ways to tell their stories?  5:50 – What did early drafts of the "My Desk" essay look like?  6:45 – Amanda and Ethan analyze the intro paragraph of the "My Desk" essay   13:24 – Analysis of paragraph 2 – Laptop 19:30 – Analysis of paragraph 3 – Stack of books 26:11 – Analysis of paragraph 4 – Bead Bracelet 31:59 – Analysis of the final paragraph – Conclusion  34:49 – Ethan introduces the "Magic" essay 41:30 – What did the student's writing process look like for the "Magic" essay?  47:55 – How does the author incorporate values and extracurricular activities together with the topic?  51:22 – How can students find more uncommon connections or topics to write about in their essays? 56:20 – What can students take away from the "Magic" essay?  58:34 – What does Amanda enjoy most about working with students on essays?  1:00:13 – Closing thoughts    Resources: "My Desk" Essay "Magic" Essay College Essay Essentials  College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub

Send us a textWhat if the story you're afraid to tell is the very one someone else needs to hear to heal, grow, or take action? In this powerful episode of the Starter Girlz Podcast, host Jennifer Loehding sits down with Timothy Flemming Jr., minister, author, publisher, and founder of Kingdom Launchpad, to uncover how storytelling can transform a simple manuscript into a life-changing movement.Timothy has helped hundreds of leaders, ministers, coaches, and entrepreneurs move from idea to published book, and in this conversation, he shares insights on what makes stories connect and create impact.In this episode, we explore:✅ Insights on turning personal testimony into an impactful story✅ Why vulnerability is the bridge between author and reader✅ Discussions on what makes storytelling engaging✅ Overcoming imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and burnout✅ How faith, ministry, and personal experiences shape powerful narratives✅ Reflections on how authors can begin sharing their story, even if they feel stuckTimothy also shares deeply personal insights, including a health scare that forced him to rethink hustle culture and rebuild from a place of healed identity rather than exhaustion.This episode is for anyone who:✔ Wants inspiration to share their personal story✔ Leads others and wants to understand the power of storytelling✔ Faces self-doubt, fear of visibility, or “never enough” thinking✔ Is curious about how faith, personal experience, and storytelling intersectThis episode will give you clarity, courage, and practical tools to start messy, lead with heart, and trust that your most vulnerable chapter could become someone else's breakthrough.Takeaways You'll Gain✔️ Insights on what makes stories resonate with readers✔️ Why vulnerability creates connection, not weakness✔️ Lessons from Timothy's journey overcoming self-doubt and burnout✔️ Reflections on integrating faith, personal experience, and storytelling✔️ Perspective on building impact and influence through sharing your storyIf this conversation inspires you, subscribe to the Starter Girlz Podcast for more powerful discussions on personal growth, purpose, faith, entrepreneurship, and storytelling.

What happens when you sit down with the person who helped shape who you became — the friend who turned into family long before either of you had the language for it? That's the heart of this conversation with my “brother from another mother,” William. Before he was a legendary performer, a beloved teacher, a devoted dad, or a cofounder of a design studio, he was the kid who, like me, found refuge and direction on a color guard floor.We start where our story begins: early competitions, long rehearsals, and the moment Sean O'Brien introduced real dance language — tendus, port de bras, breath — into a world that didn't know it needed it. William breaks down how technique became a lifeline, how mentorship turned raw energy into artistry, and how the activity saved us in ways we're still unpacking. From there, we talk honestly about the paradox of the activity we loved: a creative home for working‑class kids that rarely connected to professional pipelines. The talent was always there; the question was whether the system ever made room for those kids to cross into careers in dance, theater, or design. Teaching becomes the center of our conversation. William shares why guiding students past fear into confidence felt more electric than performing, and how that calling carried him into public education in Miami. We get into the realities — pay, burnout, inequity — and then follow his pivot into interior design, and Billy Blanco Designs - where composition, rhythm, and narrative translate seamlessly from stagecraft to space. In our lightning round, he chooses Baryshnikov over Nureyev, Tokyo over Dubai, and admits that exercise is the vice that keeps him grounded. Fatherhood reframes everything: ambition becomes presence, and the goal becomes raising confident humans without turning them into content.We also talk about aging without denial — not as a punchline, but as a clear‑eyed look at time, purpose, and what still matters. The antidote, as we both agree, is curiosity. Keep learning and the world stays wide. If you care about creativity, mentorship, reinvention, or simply want to understand a little more about the people who shaped me, this conversation will meet you where you are and maybe open a door or two.Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. You can also support us by shopping at our STORE - We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481Editing by Team A-JHost, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

In this episode of Talking Smack 415, Jamie the Great and I sit down with someone very special: Jamie's nephew… but also kind of her son… brother… all rolled into one — Shai Gilmore.Shai's story blends resilience, humor, and the fierce love that only family  can provide.He takes us back to when he was about 4 years old in Florida, where his Pop-Pop stepped in when life got complicated. Shai opens up about: Growing up with a mother in recovery Losing his father to a car accident Realizing, at just 4 years old, that “something wasn't right” Becoming everyone's favorite Green (sorry, Jamie) Navigating identity with a different last name High school chaos, college radio, and  pranks  What it felt like when he supported Jamie while she battled cancer It's sweet. It's funny. It's a little messy. And above all — it's a reminder that family is family is family.We're launching this episode for the holidays because Shai's name literally means “gift.” So here it is: the gift of Shai — his laughter, love, and light — for your holiday season.Whether you're in the Bay Area, Florida, New Jersey, or navigating your own family story, this episode is for you.Grab your earbuds or hop in the car and press play.  Share this episode with your friends and family who love to laugh. Subscribe to Talking Smack 415 and leave us a rating and review so more peeps can find us for laughter and friendship to feed your soul!

Hey lady! You know we’re all about our gentle growth and continuous improvement over here so we’re excited to share an episode that will help grow your toolkit for whatever life may bring your way.As we heal and process it’s common to notice where your childhood has yet again shaped your behavior and caused patterns that at one time seemed normal but now no longer serve you. Growing up in environments where our caregivers were doing the best they could with the tools they had means that we may not have always had the space to be your full self. And, if you grew up in a Black household it’s entirely plausible to not be allowed to feel your feelings and bury them instead.But, we’re grown now and you are not only allowed to feel your feelings but you are encouraged to and there are frameworks that can help. This week, Dr. Dom and Terri present the RULER method, a powerful tool that can help you make your way through difficult and complex emotions so that you can remain in your sovereignty and stand in your integrity.This five-step method can help you meet life as it comes, which will help you loosen the grip of needing to control life. Understanding your emotions offers you more choice in your experience, which can lead to feeling more stable, grounded and having increased capacity to feel the richness and beauty that life has to offer you. Using RULER in Real Life· Recognizing: “How do I know what I’m feeling? What signals does my body send?”· Understanding: “Where did this emotion come from? Is it layered with past wounds?”· Labeling: Talk about the power of language—using words like “disrespected” vs “angry.”· Expressing: “Who is safe to share this with? What’s an empowered way to show this?”· Regulating: Tools and tips (breathwork, journaling, therapy, movement, prayer, etc.)Quote of the Day:“If you don’t know what you’re feeling, it’s hard to know what to do with your feelings.” – Dr. Marc Brackett Goal Mapping Starter GuideCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary Resources:Dr. Dom’s Therapy PracticeThe Perfect Pitch Cheat SheetMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Lisa and Jackie discuss:How personal storytelling shapes identity and confidence in young peopleThe role of a signature talk in strengthening communication and self-awarenessUsing life experiences to build clarity and purposeThe way real-life opportunities and service experiences help youth grow passions and purposeKey Takeaways: Young people learn their core values and purpose by identifying the message they would share if given five minutes to speak to the world, strengthening their sense of worth and supporting mental health.A “signature talk” begins with exploring personal successes and failures, turning those experiences into a library of stories that can be used in interviews, essays, and meaningful conversations.Preparing a signature message teaches youth to identify a problem they deeply relate to, explain how they solved it, and offer insights that could help others—building confidence, leadership, and independence.Colleges increasingly value authentic, self-aware applicants who demonstrate impact and growth, and storytelling practice helps teens articulate purpose and meaningful experiences more effectively. “When they begin to understand what life's lessons have taught them and how it's shaped them to who and why they are, everything changes for them.” – Jackie BaileyAbout Jackie Bailey: Jackie Bailey, The International Conversation Coach, helps clients speak with significance, triumph over trauma, and champion challenges. Founder of The Speak Feed Lead Project, she's coached hundreds to share their stories on major stages.  Episode References:Subscribe to Lisa's newsletter for weekly tips: flourishcoachingco.com/newsletterDownload a Sample Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkmanTEDx program: https://www.ted.com/about/programs-initiatives/tedx-programGet Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video Connect with Jackie:Website: http://www.jackiebailey360.com/Podcast: In the Groove with Todd and Jackie: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-groove-with-todd-and-jackie/id1830625612Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jackie-Bailey/author/B0BSRGSM6KLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-bailey-4532287/Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingcoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Hey Dude, I try to sort through my messy milestone birthday, perfectly captured in my super funky selfie that inspired the call.  QUOTE: "There's a lot of strands in the old duder's head..." CAST:  Modesto, Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani, The Dude, The Doors, Bill Murray SPECIAL GUEST CAMEO: Ming Ming  LOCATIONS: Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City (UUCSC), Paris, France, Smoke House, Ernie's Taco House, Toluca Lake, Casa Vega, Hill Street Cafe, St. Leon Armenian Cathedral, Bob's Big Boy, In-N-Out Burger PROPS: Facebook, #MoreDoubles, podcasting FILMS:  The Big Lebowski, Caddyshack  SONGS: Dancing in the Dark  LULLABY: The End by The Doors SOUNDS: gravel, footsteps,  Laguna Sawdust Cowbell Chimes   helicoper, Ming Ming, jet, wind PHOTO: "Self-Portrait" shot with my iPhone XS RECORDED: October 18, 2025 in "The Cafe"  under the flight path of the Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, California GEAR: Zoom H1 XLR with Sennheiser MD 46 microphone. TOTAL RUNNING TIME: 17:14 FILE SIZE: ~ 17MB GENRES: storytelling, personal storytelling, personal journal, journal, personal narrative, audio, audio blog, confessional  HYPE: "It's a beatnik kinda literary thing in a podcast cloak of darkness." Timothy Kimo Brien (cohost on Podwrecked and host of Create Art Podcast) DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Proudly presented rough, raw and ragged. Seasoned with salty language and ideas. Not for most people's taste. Please be advised.

Lisa Tilstra: The Transformational Power of Personal Storytelling Lisa Tilstra is a coach, podcaster, and storytelling enthusiast who describes herself as a "creative disrupter." After years of telling stories without recognizing their value, Lisa now understands storytelling's power for transformation, healing, and connection. Through her podcast "Make Life Less Difficult" and storytelling workshops, Lisa helps others navigate complexity through personal narrative. Rebecca and Lisa explore how to tell better stories that invite genuine connection. Lisa challenges listeners to notice how often their stories focus on others rather than themselves, encouraging us to "pull back the metaphorical curtain" and share more personal narratives. They discussed effective story endings, how single moments can be complete stories, and the art of deep listening. Lisa reminds us that "the more specific a story, the more universal." Mentioned in the podcast: Adele Fedorak - Story Intelligence and Listening Lisa's storytelling workshops  “Make Life Less Difficult" a podcast by Lisa Tilstra

Hey Dude, I goof on myself about my recent disastrous performances at an informal open mic at my church. QUOTE: "Well, that went so well, why not?" CAST: George Clooney, Vince Vaughn, James Franco, Harrison Ford, Chef Ben Ford  LOCATIONS: Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City (UUCSC), Studio City, Studio City Theater PROPS: androgyny MOVIES: Rocky, Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Blade Runner  SPECIAL GUEST CAMEO: Ming Ming  SOUNDS: gravel, footsteps,  Laguna Sawdust Cowbell Chimes   bird, Ming Ming PHOTO: "Raiders Googled" shot with my iPhone XS RECORDED: August 23, 2025 in "The Cafe"  under the flight path of the Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, California GEAR: Zoom H1 XLR with Sennheiser MD 46 microphone. TOTAL RUNNING TIME: 13:45 FILE SIZE: 14 MB GENRES: storytelling, personal storytelling, personal journal, journal, personal narrative, audio, audio blog, confessional  HYPE: "It's a beatnik kinda literary thing in a podcast cloak of darkness." Timothy Kimo Brien (cohost on Podwrecked and host of Create Art Podcast) DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Proudly presented rough, raw and ragged. Seasoned with salty language and ideas. Not for most people's taste. Please be advised.

Sometimes as teachers we can feel self-conscious or weird about talking about ourselves. But sharing our personal stories and embracing vulnerability are powerful ways we can support students and our communities.  Today we're talking about ways to explore themes and storytelling in class, to foster connection, playfulness, and growth.Weekly stories by email from Bonnie's HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

What turns a good idea into a movement? In this episode, Jon and Becky explore how purpose—when it's clear, actionable, and rooted in emotion—becomes the driving force behind real change.You'll hear how Scott Harrison rebuilt trust in giving through Charity: Water, how Sara Cunningham sparked a nationwide movement with Free Mom Hugs, and how Aidan Reilly and Ben Collier launched The Farmlink Project by picking up the phone.Through these stories, Jon and Becky share how to clarify your “why,” invite others in, and take that first meaningful step. Because movements don't need perfection—they need purpose that moves people.Tune in for a practical, heartfelt roadmap to turning belief into bold, inclusive action. Learn:How to transform personal passion into collective actionHow to remove barriers preventing people from participatingStrategies for decentralizing decision-makingEmbracing creativity in addressing social challengesUsing personal experiences to inspire collective actionUnderstand how to build trust and transparencyGaining confidence in taking initial steps towards creating changeRecognizing the power of community-driven initiatives.Episode HighlightsDefining Movement Fundamentals (03:44)How to Build Community Engagement (05:45)Learning to Overcome Trust Barriers (12:36)Personal Storytelling as Motivation (17:19)Innovative Problem-Solving (20:11)Practical Movement-Building Strategies (24:11)Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/633Episodes Mentioned: Scott Harrison: https://www.weareforgood.com/episode/369Sara Cunningham: https://www.weareforgood.com/episode/8Aidan and Ben Collier: https://www.weareforgood.com/episode/300Thank you to our partners

I want to hear your thoughts about the show and this episode. Text us here...Have you ever felt like you were doing all the things online, but still not being seen? This episode is your permission slip to stop spinning your wheels—and start showing up with clarity and purpose.This week on Casa De Confidence, I'm joined by the incredible Keenya Kelly, entrepreneur, TikTok strategist, and visibility powerhouse. We discuss what it truly takes to build a platform that attracts the right audience, establishes your authority, and remains aligned with your values.We also share a BIG announcement: our new Casa De Confidence Productions website is live! We're now supporting podcasting clients across the U.S. and internationally!

Hey Dude, the amazing Reverand Rick retired at the top of his game to become an artist, while the jury is still out for me.  QUOTE: "Just do your thing. Come as you are." MUSICIANS: Reverend Rick, Paramahansa Yogananda, John Fogerty VENUES: Studio City, Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City, Claremont, Self Realization Fellowship, Echo Park, Altadena INSTRUMENTS: Unitarian Universalism, poetry reading, pandemic, podcasting, Zoom, Eaton Fire, GoFundMe, AA SPECIAL GUEST CAMEO: Ming Ming LULLABYE: "Long As I Can See the LIght" by John Fogerty SOUNDS: wind, birds, gravel, footsteps, saw,  Laguna Sawdust Cowbell Chimes   PHOTO: "Ricky's Last Word" shot with my iPhone XS RECORDED: July 2, 2025 in "The Cafe"  under the flight path of the Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, California GEAR: Zoom H1 XLR with Sennheiser MD 46 microphone. TOTAL RUNNING TIME: 13:36 FILE SIZE: 8MB GENRES: storytelling, personal storytelling, personal journal, journal, personal narrative, audio, audio blog, confessional  HYPE: "It's a beatnik kinda literary thing in a podcast cloak of darkness." Timothy Kimo Brien (cohost on Podwrecked and host of Create Art Podcast) DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Proudly presented rough, raw and ragged. Seasoned with salty language and ideas. Not for most people's taste. Please be advised.

Hey Dude, my recent reconnection to music makes me travel back in time to 2004, where I was living in a basement apartment in "Eagle Rock" and working on a one person show called "Broken Hearts and Sad Country Songs."  QUOTE: "Whatever!" MUSICIANS: Stan Hillas, Kittens For Christian, Bruce Springsteen, Marilyn Monroe, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams, Bob Dylan VENUES: United Kingdom, Glassell Park, Eagle Rock, Sun Valley INSTRUMENTS: spoken word and music, podcasting, Karaoke  SONGS: "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry"  "Dancing In The Dark" "Funny How Time Slips Away" SOUNDS: wind, birds, gravel, footsteps, "The 5 Freeway", planes,  Laguna Sawdust Cowbell Chimes   PHOTO: "Lonesome Lyrics" shot with my iPhone XS RECORDED: June 21, 2025 in "The Cafe"  under the flight path of the Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, California GEAR: Zoom H1 XLR with Sennheiser MD 46 microphone. TOTAL RUNNING TIME: 12:35 FILE SIZE: 8MB GENRES: storytelling, personal storytelling, personal journal, journal, personal narrative, audio, audio blog, confessional  HYPE: "It's a beatnik kinda literary thing in a podcast cloak of darkness." Timothy Kimo Brien (cohost on Podwrecked and host of Create Art Podcast) DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Proudly presented rough, raw and ragged. Seasoned with salty language and ideas. Not for most people's taste. Please be advised.

In this powerful episode, Brooke Thomas interviews entrepreneur and creative leader Bethany Sharp live from Palm Beach to explore faith-driven leadership, creative entrepreneurship, and business reinvention. Bethany shares her inspiring journey of embracing personal and professional transformation — from closing her fashion brand Lady Jetset during the pandemic to becoming the owner and editor of The Scout Guide Jupiter. She also reveals the profound breakthroughs her family experienced at the One Day Live event, emphasizing the role of generational healing and community support in overcoming challenges. Brooke and Bethany dive deep into the importance of authentic storytelling for building a personal brand that connects, discuss strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs, and share how faith and mindset cultivate resilience through seasons of change. This candid conversation offers practical advice for women entrepreneurs and creatives who want to activate their creativity, strengthen their personal brand, boost sales, and foster meaningful business community connections. If you're a woman business owner or leader who has ever struggled with self-doubt or felt stuck after setbacks, this episode will inspire you to turn challenges into opportunities, activate your purpose, and confidently live out loud in business and life.  Show Notes: Timestamps: 

“If you've shied away from showing who you are because you fear that you'll lose sales: people that would not like the authentic version of you are not going to be good customers of you anyway. Put yourself out there, disqualify the people that don't like the real you, and create a bunch of raving fans for yourself." - Sims TillirsonI would honestly be surprised if you listen to this show and haven't heard of Sims Tillirson; he has one of the best social media presences of anyone in the benefits industry, and he joined me this week to share what got him into benefits, how he got started with social media selling, and his thoughts on the importance of authenticity in the current LinkedIn environment. If you're just getting started with social media posting or you've been posting for a while, there's a lot to learn from Sims and I've been continually impressed to see how his personal brand has grown over the years. Tune in to this week's episode of Self-Funded with Spencer to learn the power of being authentic on LinkedIn, from the social media master himself!Chapters:00:00:00 The Four Pillars of the Perfect LinkedIn Strategy | with Sims Tillirson00:06:57 How Sims found his way into benefits00:11:13 Navigating the challenges of working at startups00:21:21 How Sims built his personal brand00:24:35 Why personalized video messages are so effective00:27:03 Relationship-focused outbound sales techniques00:28:54 Building trust through social mediaKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/Key Words: Sales Techniques, Sales Networking, Social Media Selling, Authenticity, Personal Storytelling, Video Messaging, Outbound Sales, Social Selling, Benefits Industry, Sales Success, Social Media Presence, sims tillirson, spencer smith podcast, healthcare, health insurance, self funded, self funding, self funded health insurance, self funded insurance#SalesTechniques #SalesNetworking #SocialMediaSelling #Authenticity #PersonalStorytelling #VideoMessaging #OutboundSales #SocialSelling #BenefitsIndustry #SalesSuccess #SocialMediaPresence #simstillirson #spencersmith #podcast #healthcare #healthinsurance #selffunded #selffunding #selffundedhealthinsurance #selffundedinsurance

“If you've shied away from showing who you are because you fear that you'll lose sales: people that would not like the authentic version of you are not going to be good customers of you anyway. Put yourself out there, disqualify the people that don't like the real you, and create a bunch of raving fans for yourself." - Sims TillirsonI would honestly be surprised if you listen to this show and haven't heard of Sims Tillirson; he has one of the best social media presences of anyone in the benefits industry, and he joined me this week to share what got him into benefits, how he got started with social media selling, and his thoughts on the importance of authenticity in the current LinkedIn environment. If you're just getting started with social media posting or you've been posting for a while, there's a lot to learn from Sims and I've been continually impressed to see how his personal brand has grown over the years. Tune in to this week's episode of Self-Funded with Spencer to learn the power of being authentic on LinkedIn, from the social media master himself!Chapters:00:00:00 The Four Pillars of the Perfect LinkedIn Strategy | with Sims Tillirson00:06:57 How Sims found his way into benefits00:11:13 Navigating the challenges of working at startups00:21:21 How Sims built his personal brand00:24:35 Why personalized video messages are so effective00:27:03 Relationship-focused outbound sales techniques00:28:54 Building trust through social mediaKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/Key Words: Sales Techniques, Sales Networking, Social Media Selling, Authenticity, Personal Storytelling, Video Messaging, Outbound Sales, Social Selling, Benefits Industry, Sales Success, Social Media Presence, sims tillirson, spencer smith podcast, healthcare, health insurance, self funded, self funding, self funded health insurance, self funded insurance#SalesTechniques #SalesNetworking #SocialMediaSelling #Authenticity #PersonalStorytelling #VideoMessaging #OutboundSales #SocialSelling #BenefitsIndustry #SalesSuccess #SocialMediaPresence #simstillirson #spencersmith #podcast #healthcare #healthinsurance #selffunded #selffunding #selffundedhealthinsurance #selffundedinsurance

In this episode of the Creative Genius podcast, I interview Rebe Huntman about her debut memoir, "My Mother in Havana, a memoir of magic and miracle." Rebe shares her personal story of losing her mother at a young age and the subsequent decades of feeling disconnected from her memory. Driven by a deep longing and intuition, Rebe embarked on a 30-day DIY pilgrimage to Cuba to seek a different perspective on grief and connection. The conversation delves into how Rebe's background as a Latin dancer led her to discover the spiritual roots of Cuban dances and the traditions of honoring the deceased.  Rebe recounts her experiences immersing herself in rituals dedicated to the goddess Oshun, visiting the sanctuary of Cuba's patron saint, and meeting with a spiritist who she hoped would connect her with her mother.Rebe and I discuss the importance of intuition and following one's unique path, even when it doesn't seem logical. We also explore the disconnect in Western culture from ancestral connections, magic, and meaningful rituals, contrasting it with the Cuban traditions of keeping the dead close.The conversation touches on the challenges of staying creative and connected to one's inner voice in the face of overwhelming global issues and personal fears. Rebe shares her belief in creativity as a portal and emphasizes the importance of honouring inner longings and choosing to champion humanity. She also shares her personal rituals for grounding and connecting with her intuition and ancestors, offering practical advice for listeners seeking to do the same. Ultimately, Rebe's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the wisdom of intuition, and the potential for magic and miracle in our lives, even in the darkest of times.  

In this episode, Jodi and guest Isabelle Knight discuss author branding as well as the importance of understanding your ideal readers and creating a compelling author brand story. Isabelle shares her journey from being a publicist in film and television to helping authors leverage PR and brand-building strategies to connect with their audiences. They explore the challenges of book marketing for business owners and how authentic engagement can transform book marketing from a task to an opportunity.   Time Stamps: [00:00 Launching Indie Publishing Support Business 04:16 Defining Author Brand Essentials 08:12 Rethinking Author Bios 11:16 Author Branding through Personal Storytelling 14:02 Reframing Book Promotion Positively 18:05 Narrow Your Audience for Growth 21:51 "Reflecting on Book's Purpose" 25:35 "Podcast Appreciation and Sharing"   Keywords: book publishing, marketing asset, business owners, entrepreneurs, writing a book, publishing industry, Jodi Brandon, Isabel Knight, Build Your Author Brand, author brand, indie authors, self-publishing, traditional publishing, author bio, book marketing, ideal reader, book sales, book cover design, business growth, speaking engagements, publicist, mindset shift, connection piece, writing process, author story, book release, reader engagement, brand story, publicist expertise, client relationships, book marketing challenges   Resources Mentioned: Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite Build Your Author Brand podcast I'm Sorry You Feel That Way by Rebecca Waite The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest About Our Guest: With a career spanning over two decades as a top-tier publicist, Isabelle Knight has worked alongside industry titans in film, television, and publishing, including the likes of JK Rowling and the BBC. Isabelle runs the online consultancy, Build Your Author Brand—working with Authors of both fiction and non-fiction, to teach the crucial tools and strategies to raise their profile, grow a readership, and increase their overall success.   www.buildyourauthorbrand.co.uk  LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1314qXZTTH6s3AQzu7RnTaw-Z1hnmnTmo6CpHmvOQC2Q/edit?usp=sharing  

Why do you want a podcast? I'm pretty sure you don't want a podcast just to have a podcast. You want influence and authority. You want significance. SIGNIFICANCE AND COMPANIONSHIP It's not about what you're saying. It is about who you're being when you're saying it. Your significance comes from who you are, not what you say. Your listeners come for your content, but stay for you. When I coach clients, they often find it difficult to step into who they really are. They don't think people want to hear about their life or story. But, that's the furthest from the truth. People listen to you for companionship. Companionship is the primary reason people listen to audio. They don't want to be alone. People don't want to exercise alone, so they have their earbuds in. They don't want to drive alone, so they have audio on. Your fans don't want to be alone on a run, so they are listening to your podcast. You're keeping them company. MORE OF YOU On a coaching call the other day, my client said his former coach told him to cut out all of the personal stuff. Nobody wants to hear it. That advice couldn't be further from the truth. And it's detrimental to your podcast. Are your downloads struggling? There isn't enough of you. Your podcast cannot survive on content alone. Artificial intelligence can copy your information. It can probably generate your six steps to success faster than you can. I don't need to sit through 30 minute of your podcast. AI can't copy you and your story. Share yourself with your fans and stand out. Your fans want more of you. That little voice in your head is telling you that people may not like what you share. They may not like the real you. And that's ok. NOT FOR EVERYONE The biggest personalities are polarizing. But they didn't start that way. Oprah started as a typical news anchor. She went on to host a daytime television show that was just like her competitors Phil Donahue, Sally Jessy Raphael and the others. When Oprah finally decided to be herself, share her struggles and do it her way, her star shot to the top. However, she wasn't for everyone. But her superfans loved her. She had incredible significance that lives on today. Howard Stern started in radio doing the same schtick every other DJ was doing. He struggled to find success. One day Stern decided to do it his way and be himself. He rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. Even his program director was trying to hold him back. But, his fan base started to grow quickly. People loved him. And people hated him. He surely isn't for everyone. But the people who love him really love him. He became the biggest star on the radio, because he shared himself. His became of person of significance. SIGNIFICANCE BY SELECTION You don't need to share everything about yourself to grow your significance. It requires sharing the right things. The fans get to know you by the stories you share with them. Share the stories that build your brand. Once you've determined your ideal target listener, you know exactly what means the most to them. This is where your significance originates. Speak into their lives by sharing parts of your life with them. There are seven elements of powerful, magnetic personalities. This is how to start your journey to significance. I teach you how to elevate your significance and become a magnetic personality who attracts clients to you rather than chasing them inside of the Podcast Profits Accelerator community. This is powerful group that will help you build and implement your podcast monetization strategy. It all begins by becoming a magnetic personality. You can get full details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/accelerator. A CHARACTER First, you need a character. That is you. Have the courage to step into who you are. You are the leader of your tribe. People want what you have. Believe in yourself. Ignore the people who aren't following you. They won't become your fans anyway. People who don't love you won't buy your products, consume your content. On the other hand, your fans will love you when you lead. ORIGIN STORY Next, you need an origin story. How did you develop your superpower? You need to be able to tell this story in ten minutes and also in 90 seconds. Your origin story is how your significance came to be. It's a critical part of your journey. This is the first step in getting people to love who you are. Share your struggles, discoveries, and successes. Gary Vaynerchuk has his origin story of how his father immigrated here from Belarus and started a liquor store. Steve Jobs had his origin story of being adopted and starting his computer company in the garage with his buddy Steve Wozniak. TRANSFORMATION The third element is the transformation. This is the moment you discovered your superpower. Think of it in terms of, "And then one day..." When was the moment you discovered this was your purpose in life? Jeff Walker of Product Launch Formula had his transformation when he did his first launch of his newsletter to 19 people. Howard Stern has his "oh wow" moment when he was frustrated and just shared his life on air one day. People started calling, and he knew he was on to something special. PRINCIPLES From your origin story, you next need to develop your foundational principles. These are the things that lay the foundation for what you do. What are the principles you won't break? Russel Brunson of ClickFunnels believes you're only one funnel away from breaking through. Dave Ramsey is against credit cards. STORIES Next, you need stories that wrap around and demonstrate your principles. Think of these like the parables in the Bible. People learn through story. There are a few stories from your journey that solidify your principles. Share these stories often. These could be small pieces of your origin story. Russel Brunson has his potato gun story. Alex Hormozi has the story of sleeping on the floor just to make it work. LINGO Personalities with significance have a certain lingo that superfans use. This is a little insider language. What phrases do you use often? Find half a dozen sayings that are common in your talks and use them often. Gary Vaynerchuk talk about arbitrage and hustle. Dave Ramsey uses “live like no one else so later you can live like no one else”. WORD OF MOUTH The final element is word of mouth. You need a handful of superfans who will spread your praises everywhere they can. Celebrate these people on your show. Get them to tell as many people as possible. Empower your superfans. Rush Limbaugh had dittoheads. Alex Hormozi has MoziNation. SIGNIFICANCE When you have accomplished all seven traits of magnetic personalities, you'll see your significance grow. Would you like my help implementing this into your show and business? Are you struggling to get noticed and grow your influence? Come join us in the Podcast Profits Accelerator. This is powerful group that will help you build and implement your podcast monetization strategy. It all begins by becoming a magnetic personality. You can get full details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/accelerator. I can't wait to see you there.

In this encore episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, with a brand new intro - I revisit a powerful conversation with the wise and insightful Jane Dunnewold. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, I'm reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster so many of us are experiencing—fear, despair, hope, and the flickering light of creativity. I am candidly shares my own struggle with doom scrolling, the paralysis it caused, and the steps I am taking to reclaim my inner peace.Jane's wisdom offers a timely and profound exploration of the inner bullies that live within us—those relentless voices of self-doubt, fear, and unworthiness that hold us back. I connect this concept to the larger external forces at play in the world today, recognizing that until we learn to defeat the bullies in our own minds, we will struggle to stand up to the ones outside of us.This episode is an invitation to step into deeper self-awareness, to recognize the power of creativity as a means of resistance, and to become part of the essential ‘islands of sanity' in a chaotic world. Join me as I share my thoughts, vulnerabilities and inspiration along with, Jane's transformative insights, and a heartfelt call to reconnect with creativity as an act of personal and collective resilience.Join an island of sanity inside the Creative Genius Patreon

Send us a textIn this episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, Curveball sits down with Robert A. Lane, an experienced author, transformationalist, and audiobook coach. Discover how Robert transitioned from a 30-year career in the entertainment industry to founding Robert Lane Coaching, helping nonfiction authors bring their stories to life through audiobooks. Learn about the importance of authors narrating their own work, the key components of producing a compelling audiobook, and the distribution channels that maximize reach. Robert shares insights from his coaching program, designed to guide authors through every step of the audiobook creation process. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with personal anecdotes and practical advice for aspiring authors.www.robertlanecoaching.comWant to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodM                           atch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600

Have an amazing service or product, but people don't seem to appreciate its value?Find yourself dreading social media, feeling invisible and #lostinthecrowd?Listen now to this interview with Monica Vallero,  #BusinessCoach & #Hypnotherapist, to learn how you can use the power of personal #storytelling in business to craft connections that position you as a #trustedleader in your field, help you #IncreaseSales, and attract more opportunities with fun and ease! Note: In an era of AI and pre-packaged content, #AuthenticStorytelling has never been more important. Learn more and connect with Monica now at:www.monicavallero.comhttps://www.instagram.com/monicavallero/ PLUS: A fabulous #FreeGiftSpecial!!!Listen all the way to the end of this episode to learn how you can be 1 of 10 lucky listeners for whom Monica will perform a free, NO-STINGS-ATTACHED, #businessaudit / #MarketingAudit! #CoachingTips #BusinessStrategy #MindsetAndGrowth #InnerWork #craftingconnections #AuthenticBranding #AuthenticConnections #BrandStorytelling #personalstorytelling #StorytellingInBusiness #StorytellingInMarketing #StorytellingInSales #HighTicketSales #MindsetMatters #HeartCenteredBusiness #AIandBusiness #MarketingTips #BrandVoice #EmbraceChange _____________________________________ABOUT SAMIA:Samia Bano is the #HappinessExpert, author, speaker, podcaster & coach for coaches and healers. Samia is most known for her book, 'Make Change Fun and Easy' and her #podcast of the same name. With the help of her signature Follow Your Heart Process™, a unique combination of #PositivePsychology and the #spiritual wisdom of our most effective #ChangeMakers, Samia helps you overcome #LimitingBeliefs, your chains of fear, to develop a #PositiveMindset and create the impact and income you desire with fun and ease…Samia's advanced signature programs include the Happiness 101 Class and the Transformative Action Training.Samia is also a Certified #ReikiHealer and Crisis Counselor working to promote #MentalHealthAwareness.  Samia models #HeartCenteredLeadership and business that is both #SociallyResponsible and #EnvironmentallyFriendly.Samia is a practicing #Muslim with an inter-spiritual approach. As someone who has a love and appreciation for diversity, she is a #BridgeBuilder between people of different faiths and cultures. Although Samia currently lives in California, USA, she has lived in 3 other countries and speaks Hindi, Urdu, and English fluently.  Want to learn even more about Samia? Visit www.academyofthriving.com :)To Book your Free HAPPINESS 101 EXPLORATION CALL with Samia, click: https://my.timetrade.com/book/JX9XJ

Have an amazing service or product, but people don't seem to appreciate its value?Find yourself dreading social media, feeling invisible and #lostinthecrowd?Listen now to this interview with Monica Vallero,  #BusinessCoach & #Hypnotherapist, to learn how you can use the power of personal #storytelling in business to craft connections that position you as a #trustedleader in your field, help you #IncreaseSales, and attract more opportunities with fun and ease! Note: In an era of AI and pre-packaged content, #AuthenticStorytelling has never been more important. Learn more and connect with Monica now at:www.monicavallero.comhttps://www.instagram.com/monicavallero/ PLUS: A fabulous #FreeGiftSpecial!!!Listen all the way to the end of this episode to learn how you can be 1 of 10 lucky listeners for whom Monica will perform a free, NO-STINGS-ATTACHED, #businessaudit / #MarketingAudit! #CoachingTips #BusinessStrategy #MindsetAndGrowth #InnerWork #craftingconnections #AuthenticBranding #AuthenticConnections #BrandStorytelling #personalstorytelling #StorytellingInBusiness #StorytellingInMarketing #StorytellingInSales #HighTicketSales #MindsetMatters #HeartCenteredBusiness #AIandBusiness #MarketingTips #BrandVoice #EmbraceChange _____________________________________ABOUT SAMIA:Samia Bano is the #HappinessExpert, author, speaker, podcaster & coach for coaches and healers. Samia is most known for her book, 'Make Change Fun and Easy' and her #podcast of the same name. With the help of her signature Follow Your Heart Process™, a unique combination of #PositivePsychology and the #spiritual wisdom of our most effective #ChangeMakers, Samia helps you overcome #LimitingBeliefs, your chains of fear, to develop a #PositiveMindset and create the impact and income you desire with fun and ease…Samia's advanced signature programs include the Happiness 101 Class and the Transformative Action Training.Samia is also a Certified #ReikiHealer and Crisis Counselor working to promote #MentalHealthAwareness.  Samia models #HeartCenteredLeadership and business that is both #SociallyResponsible and #EnvironmentallyFriendly.Samia is a practicing #Muslim with an inter-spiritual approach. As someone who has a love and appreciation for diversity, she is a #BridgeBuilder between people of different faiths and cultures. Although Samia currently lives in California, USA, she has lived in 3 other countries and speaks Hindi, Urdu, and English fluently.  Want to learn even more about Samia? Visit www.academyofthriving.com :)To Book your Free HAPPINESS 101 EXPLORATION CALL with Samia, click: https://my.timetrade.com/book/JX9XJ

Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, host Curveball sits down with stand-up comedian Dave Mowry, who shares his incredible journey of using comedy as a tool for coping with severe mental illness. Dave reveals how he went from a successful business career to battling undiagnosed bipolar disorder, and how through humor, he found a way to transform his life and help others do the same. Listen in as Dave discusses the healing power of laughter, his teaching process for individuals with mental illness, and his inspiring book series, "OMG That's Me." Tune in for a conversation that not only shatters the stigma surrounding mental health but also offers hope through humor and personal storytelling.www.davemowry.comWant to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600

Angela Estep is a “Jane of all trades” who's done it all! Tune into this episode of Wake Up Legendary to hear how she is reeling in her audience through personal storytelling and E-Book writing! Subscribe to Legendary Marketer on Youtube Follow Legendary Marketer on Facebook Follow Dave on Instagram Follow Angela on Tiktok

Meet Christina. She's the founder of The New Quo

Hello to you listening in Piscataway, New Jersey!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently my friend, colleague and fellow podcaster, Anke Herrmann and I sparked the story airwaves with 10 very fast-paced, humor and content driven minutes that covered storywork like you've not heard it before.What you can expect:  ✓ What's your story?✓ How does your story influence and impact the work you do?✓ How do you tell that story in a way that's engaging and gets the right point across?✓ Your Who, Your Values, Your Why, and Your How ..... and more!If you want the inside track on tips to say where you came from and how you got to where you are in life in a way that gets you heard in the right places, this episode is for you! Join us for a delightful, thought-provoking and inspiring conversation that might just spark you to share YOUR story in a whole new way. Click HERE to watch the videoClick HERE to watch  What's Your Story? Diane Wyzga Listens It Out of You on YouTube  Anke Herrmann's Bio:In 2004, she quit her software developer career in London, moved to Spain, and turned her passion for sewing into a business, specializing in flamenco dance costumes."Let's see what happens," was her business plan.It felt like riding a wild elephant until she realized that building a business is a CREATIVE PROCESS, the same as developing software or sewing a dress - a magical mix of vision, skill, and soul.Now, she brings her background in tech and everything she's learned over the years about business, marketing & psychology to help passion-driven coaches and educators build a Boutique Business that allows them to grow without burning out or scaling the joy out of it.She's a certified Clarity Coach, author of Taming the Tech Monster and founder of Soul Touched by Dogs."Get in touch with Anke Herrmann:https://ankeherrmann.comhttps://soultouchedbydogs.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anke-herrmann/https://www.facebook.com/herrmann.anke/https://www.instagram.com/ankeherrmannbusinessgrowth/You're always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane on as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved. 

Do you know what it takes to be the best in the world at what you do? In this episode of the Happy Hustle Podcast, we dive deep into this topic with Bo Eason! Bo is an eight-time national bestseller, a former NFL All-Pro safety, and a Broadway playwright, hailed by the New York Times for one of the most powerful plays in the last decade. Bo's journey is nothing short of inspirational. Imagine being the runt of the litter, cut from your college team, and then rising to be ranked by ESPN as the best safety in the draft. He played for the Houston Oilers and the San Francisco 49ers, proving that with the right mindset and hustle, anything is possible.In our chat, we explore the four key pieces to Bo's puzzle of success: declaration, preparation, acceleration, and domination. Whether you're an athlete, artist, entrepreneur, or executive, Bo's insights on how to communicate with maximum impact and success are invaluable. He's worked with giants like Morgan Stanley, Mass Mutual, and Merrill Lynch, so you know he's got the goods.He also shares the power of personal storytelling and how it can inspire others and build trust. He emphasizes declaring your goals, preparing meticulously, and taking full accountability for your reality. He also delves into the concept of acceleration—how to slow down your deceleration to make it seem like you're passing others. It's about focusing on your goals and cleaning up your environment for maximum growth.Ready to unlock your potential? Tune in to this episode and learn how you can dominate your field and be the best at what you do. In this episode, we cover: 02:57 The Power of Personal Storytelling and Building Trust07:58 Declare, Prepare, and Take Accountability for Your Reality29:28 Accelerate by Decelerating at a Slower Pace31:38 The Power of Deceleration and Aging33:20 Avoiding Burnout by Harmonizing Ambition and Well-being36:18 Achieving Greatness through Behavior and Being44:58 Building Trust and Connection through Personal StorytellingWhat does Happy Hustlin mean to you? Bo says fall in love with your own dreams. And the more you fall in love with them is the more people are gonna come at you and go, you're gonna be attractive.Connect with Bohttps://www.instagram.com/boeason21/https://www.facebook.com/boeasonofficial/Find Bo on this website: https://boeason.com/ Connect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/cary__jack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance (https://www.thehappyhustlebook.com/)Sign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Course (http://www.thehappyhustle.com/Journey)Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventure (https://caryjack.com/montana)“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode sponsorBIOptimizers Magnesium BreakthroughThis stuff is a game-changer! Magnesium Breakthrough packs all 7 forms of magnesium, designed to support stress management, promote muscle relaxation, regulate the nervous system, control stress hormones, boost brain function, increase energy, and enhance sleep.I take 2 capsules before bedtime, and it's been a game-changer for me. The best part is, BIOptimizers offer a risk-free.

Joey Odom is a dynamic leader and a natural storyteller known for his ability to inspire and foster deep connections with others. His own experience with technology as a husband and dad led Joey to help create Aro alongside co-founder Heath Wilson, a platform that helps families put down their phones and engage in real life. Joey also hosts The Aro Podcast, which is a weekly conversation with leaders and influencers who strive to live intentionally. Today, Joey shares personal stories about his journey as a father, emphasizing the importance of being fully present with his children amidst distractions like smartphones. He discusses the concept of "Aro," which means to notice or turn towards in Maori, and highlights how eye contact and presence can positively impact family dynamics. Joey and Larry also address the challenges parents face in the digital age and offer practical tips for incorporating "Aro time" into daily routines. They encourage listeners to prioritize connection over distractions, showcasing how simple actions like putting down your phone can lead to deeper, more meaningful family relationships. -------------------------------------------- Aro is providing a special deal for your families to finally have fun while reducing your screen time!  Head over to

This episode is brought to you by Caldera Lab, Timeline Nutrition, and LMNT. What if living beyond your limitations was more than just a mindset—it was your reality? Join me for an emotional conversation with Aaron Lazar, the accomplished actor and Broadway singer who is defying the odds in his battle with ALS. Aaron's story is not just about resilience; it's about a profound transformation from fear and unhappiness to empowerment and self-healing. Discover how shifting self-perceptions and embracing a life beyond limitations can lead to a mindset of being healed, whole, strong, and powerful.  Follow Aaron @aaronscottlazar Follow Chase @chase_chewning ----- In this episode we discuss... (05:41) Aaron's ALS Story (17:11) Aaron's Powerful Conscious Awakening (26:59) Finding Peace in the Midst of a Terminal Illness (34:24) Navigating Life's Uncertainties (39:31) Neuroscience and ALS Research (42:59) Heart Opening and Energy Connection (47:47) Cultivating Daily Self-Love and Gratitude Practices (52:18) Power of Personal Storytelling (01:15:07) Aaron's Career Future ----- Episode resources: Save 20% with code EVERFORWARD on my favorite men's skincare products at https://www.CalderaLab.com Save 10% on your first purchase of MitoPure mitochondrial revitalizer with code EVERFORWARD at https://www.TimelineNutriton.com/everforward  Get a FREE 8-count electrolyte sample pack with any purchase at https://www.DrinkLMNT.com/everforward  Watch and subscribe on YouTube Learn more at AaronLazar.com

Results matter, and so does the journey to achieving them. In my latest podcast episode, I explore the importance of case studies in showcasing real-life transformations. I'm talking about the kind of changes that ripple through every aspect of life, from professional success to deeper, healthier relationships. It's not just about meeting expectations; it's about exceeding them and sparking unexpected growth in all areas.   "The more you can document and share the changes you're going through, the more people feel like they're on the same journey with you."   What you will learn: Encouragement to share personal experiences Importance of demonstrating evidence-based case studies The significance of creating short, engaging videos The importance of consistency Learn more about Jesse through the following links: HBL Lifestyle Secrets Group on Facebook Personal Website HBL Website Instagram Email  

In his conversation with Nick Gray, James Altucher explores practical advice for enhancing social interactions, particularly in the context of hosting gatherings. James, who often feels out of place at social events, seeks insights from Nick, an expert in hosting successful small-scale parties. Nick shares his transformation from disliking traditional parties to excelling in organizing intimate, engaging events. He highlights the importance of having a small core group to initiate the event, creating a well-balanced guest list, and engaging activities like icebreakers to break the ice.Nick introduces his NIC(K) formula - Name tags, Icebreakers, Cocktails/mocktails only, and Kick-out time - essential for a smooth and enjoyable event. They discuss strategies to prevent awkwardness in social settings, the role of vulnerability in forming connections, and avoiding 'trauma dumping' in conversations. Nick also provides insights into improving networking experiences at conferences, illustrating his methods for more effective interactions.The conversation goes beyond party planning logistics, encompassing broader themes of human connection and interaction. James and Nick's exchange sheds light on the nuances of socializing and the impactful nature of well-planned gatherings.Check out Nick's book: The 2-Hour Cocktail Party!-----------Episode Summary:Introduction and Social Challenges at Parties (00:01:30 - 00:02:01): James Altucher opens the conversation by sharing his difficulties in socializing at parties and expresses a need to improve his skills in this area.Nick Gray's Background and Dislike for Conventional Parties (00:02:01 - 00:02:38): Nick Gray explains his initial aversion to typical networking events and his journey towards creating more meaningful and comfortable social gatherings.Hosting Personal Parties in Small Spaces (00:02:38 - 00:03:35): Nick shares how he began hosting parties in his small apartment in New York, mixing neighbors and new acquaintances, focusing on creating a welcoming environment.Concept of the Core Group for Party Planning (00:03:35 - 00:05:14): Nick introduces the idea of a 'core group' as a crucial element in party planning, ensuring a successful and comfortable gathering.The Ideal Size and Diversity for a Good Party (00:05:14 - 00:05:59): The discussion covers the optimal size for a party (16 to 22 people) and the importance of diversity in the guest list.Effective Icebreakers and Introductions (00:05:59 - 00:06:40): Nick discusses the role of icebreakers and introductions in making parties enjoyable and less awkward, especially for introverts.James' Experiences with Hosting and Party Challenges (00:06:40 - 00:08:20): James shares his experiences with hosting neighborhood parties, discussing the challenges he faces as an introvert.Importance of Pre-Announcing Party Activities (00:08:20 - 00:09:37): The conversation shifts to the significance of informing guests about party activities in advance to avoid surprises and discomfort.Crafting Effective Icebreakers for Large Gatherings (00:09:37 - 00:11:33): Nick provides insights on creating engaging icebreakers for large groups, emphasizing quick and meaningful interactions.Ending Parties on Time and Party Duration Preferences (00:11:33 - 00:14:19): Nick and James discuss strategies for ending parties at a scheduled time and share personal preferences on party duration.What Makes a Good Party and Conversation Ending Techniques (00:14:19 - 00:15:52): They explore what constitutes a successful party for hosts and guests, including tips on how to gracefully end conversations.Nick's Personal Hosting Experiences and Party Advice (00:15:52 - 00:19:01): Nick reflects on his own party hosting experiences and offers advice on ensuring a pleasant experience for every attendee.Engaging Icebreakers for Different Stages of a Party (00:19:01 - 00:20:32): The discussion includes various icebreakers suitable for different moments during a party, aiming to enhance guest interactions.James' Strategies for Successful Conferences (00:20:32 - 00:23:13): James shares his tactics for making conferences more engaging and memorable, including how he uses icebreakers in these settings.Nick's Full-Time Commitment to Party Hosting and Background (00:23:13 - 00:24:33): Nick talks about his full-time dedication to party hosting and his background in business and museum tours.Party Hosting as a Life Strategy (00:24:33 - 00:25:51): They delve into how hosting parties can be an effective strategy for building relationships and expanding one's network.James' Interest in Hosting in Atlanta and Austin (00:25:51 - 00:28:02): James expresses interest in hosting events in Atlanta and Austin, and Nick offers to assist.Differentiating Between Types of Guests and Events (00:28:02 - 00:29:25): The conversation touches on categorizing events and guests to tailor the experience to different groups.Frequent Hosting for Network Expansion (00:29:25 - 00:30:45): Nick advises on the frequency of hosting events for network growth and the importance of a diverse guest list.Utilizing Social Proof and Guest List Visibility (00:30:45 - 00:32:30): Nick highlights the importance of social proof and making guest lists visible to encourage participation.Strategies for Effective Networking at Conferences (00:32:30 - 00:33:36): Nick shares his approach to enhancing networking experiences at large conferences.Utilizing Personal Experiences in Social Settings (00:33:36 - 00:35:30): Nick shares anecdotes from his life, relating them to the art of hosting and connecting with people.James' Unique Networking Strategies (00:35:30 - 00:37:58): James discusses his own techniques for networking, particularly at conferences.Applying Party Hosting Techniques to Dating (00:37:58 - 00:40:27): The conversation shifts to how the principles of party hosting can be applied to dating.Effective Icebreakers for One-on-One Conversations (00:40:27 - 00:42:08): Nick and James discuss various icebreakers that can be used in one-on-one settings.Role of Vulnerability in Building Connections (00:42:08 - 00:44:18): The topic of vulnerability in social interactions is explored.Hosting Events for Network Expansion (00:44:18 - 00:48:54): Nick gives advice on hosting events as a strategy for expanding one's network.James' Potential Plans for Hosting in Austin (00:48:54 - 00:51:00): James expresses a desire to host events in Austin and discusses potential collaboration with Nick.Differentiating Events for Various Audience Types (00:51:00 - 00:53:19): They talk about categorizing events based on the type of audience.Social Proof and Guest List Visibility in Event Planning (00:53:19 - 00:54:46): Nick emphasizes the importance of social proof in event planning.Enhancing Conference Networking Experiences (00:54:46 - 00:57:05): Nick shares his experiences and strategies for improving networking sessions at conferences.James' Dating Hacks and Approaches to Dating (00:57:05 - 00:59:32): James talks about his approach to dating, including unique strategies and challenges.Importance of Icebreakers in Various Social Settings (00:59:32 - 01:00:54): The discussion returns to the role of icebreakers in different social situations.Closing Thoughts and Future Collaborations (01:00:54 - 01:03:27): The interview concludes with James and Nick discussing potential future collaborations and summarizing their key takeaways from the conversation.-----------What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltucher.com/podcast.------------Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe  to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsStitcheriHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on Social Media:YouTubeTwitterFacebook