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PODCAST · society

Curious Navel

by Jane Markson

Each week Jane Markson asks the same questions to anyone willing to answer, as she tries to figure out if we have more in common than just our navels. Whether we do or not doesn't matter — she's curious to ask, eager to listen, and enjoying conversations that wouldn't otherwise take place.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Apr 11, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Ep 150 - Stay Tuned ...

    This adventure started based on an idea that came to me like an Elizabeth Gilbert Big Magic Moment. I didn't have any expectations other than to welcome anyone willing to speak with me into a community where others could learn about their story – because each one of us has an important and…

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  2. Ep 149 - Bob Pagani

    He's semi-retired from radio and now edits crappy novels and creates art that makes you scratch your head. He will tell you without hesitation about his ADHD and the fact that he doesn't plan, but drifting and leaving himself open to opportunity has led him down some amazing and surprising paths....

  3. Ep 148 - Steve Laret

    Steve impressed me with his incredible confidence and ability to change course whenever an opportunity for success presented itself. We may not see eye to eye on politics or raising children, but his try anything attitude is something to remember.

  4. Ep 147 - Midge Kirchner

    She is a self-proclaimed fireball who keep things simple for herself and her nutrition clients. She realized early on that even though she wasn't encouraged to succeed, it was her only way forward. This ballroom dancing non-spinster is as motivated as they come.

  5. Ep 146 - Jonathan Epstein

    He's an inventor and property manager but you will remember him most for his demeanor and the fact that he is definitely "not a jerk". He shares advice with kindness and compassion and knows from experience that getting through the difficult parts will be worth it.

  6. Ep 145 - Betsy McMillan

    Betsy can write anything, whether it's a scientific research article, a humorous children's book, or a harlequin romance. And she will always find a solution to accomplish her goal – even overcoming her fear of public speaking to become a lounge singer. She follows her own advice to never give up...

  7. Ep 144 - Krystel Seier

    This born and bred Texas girl is a performer and writer who turned her love of theatre into a voice over career and most recently, a career in real estate. She's grateful for all her bumps in the road and has learned the lessons we all need to hear….start sooner, don't be afraid, and my personal...

  8. Ep 143 - Adrien Soriano

    Adrien loves being a pro-wrestler and performing for a crowd as much as he loves coaching and teaching his skill to the next generation of wrestlers. He has learned to listen to his instincts and be a loving and reliable brother and boyfriend. Here's to hoping he finds the perfect chocolate chip...

  9. Ep 142 - David Falcaro

    Dave moved into a 300-year-old farmhouse for his health but he did more than transform the home – he discovered a way to heal the incredible pain he was experiencing. He would not trade his journey because it helped him gain a skill and perspective very few know.

  10. Ep 141 - Stacey Redfield

    From body building to acting to running a Pilates studio, Stacey doesn't let anyone stop her. She takes chances because she doesn't want to leave this life with regret. She may not ever run for office but I vote that she share her secret to loving life.

  11. Ep 140 - Doug "Flex" Yasinsky

    Doug transitioned from pro wrestling to sales but from his perspective, they are no different – everyone is a natural salesman whether you are asking your parents for a toy or asking someone for a date. My goal is to hang with Doug and hope some of his natural Zen attitude rubs off on me – right...

  12. Ep 139 - Nick Friday

    He became an athlete to avoid being bullied and played football in college, but it wasn't until he was comfortably miserable at a desk job that he turned his passion for fitness into a personal training and self-defense business. And at the core of his coaching is a simple rule – have empathy and...

  13. Ep 138 - Marvin Benson

    Marvin is definitely the person you want to answer when you contact a call center. He will resolve your issue with his kind and easy-going manner. He's willing to dive off a mountain in a wing suit, doesn't worry about fear, and finds his joy in just hanging with his friends and playing video...

  14. Ep 137 - Kate Elfatah

    Whether working with her digital marketing clients or producing a burlesque show, Kate is a kind and charming truth teller. She ignores her fears but will help you with yours – unless it's finally the day she puts herself first.

  15. Ep 136 - Shmuel Chaim Naiman

    Shmuel moved to Israel not only for his spiritual journey, but also for the culture, the people, and the proximity to nature. His health coaching venture embraces his belief that keeping it simple and incorporating mindfulness and spirituality is key to complete health. His modesty, honesty, and...

  16. Ep 135 - Jeff Newkirk

    If you are looking for a trusted advisor, look no further. Jeff shared the straightforward guidance on which his clients rely that will stay with me as well -- set your core values and remind yourself of them daily, remain true to who you are, and remember that you can improve your future based…

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  17. Ep 134 - Frankie Raye

    Though Frankie has not needed her back up plan, she doesn't consider it wasted time. She's a musician/singer/songwriter who cherishes her independence and knows how important it is to simply show up for your creativity – even if it finds you because a stranger has you ticked off.

  18. Ep 133 - Paul Vecchione

    Once a Long Islander, always a Long Islander. But Paul does more than love the Yankees and the beach, he is a compassionate teacher whose goal is to lend his support when someone is struggling. He lives his mission through his early intervention and education drug program – and his empathy skills...

  19. Ep 132 - Hugh Gallagher

    With seven kids in his blended family and a full-time business to run Hugh should be stressed but he loves it all – work, family, and friends. He's acquired his emotional intelligence along the way and has great advice for all of us – have no regrets but start sooner.

  20. Ep 131 - First, it's about me and second, everything is about to change

    After over 130 episodes, I've been struggling with how to keep Curious Navel fresh and interesting when people know what I'm going to ask. While I do my best to pick up nuggets that an answer reveals and explore the stranger I'm trying to get to know, I think it's time to change it up and start...

  21. Ep 130 - Lindsey Parks

    Whether or not her innate optimism derives from being a descendant of some of the first settlers in Massachusetts, Lindsey has listened to her intuition to create her life and has a personal and professional life rich with meaningful connections and love. She is the person you want to run into at...

  22. Ep 129 - Riah Gonzalez

    Being fired was perhaps the best thing that ever happened to Riah because it taught her that there is success in failure, led her to becoming an entrepreneur, and gave her the motivation to write a book. She is not afraid to talk about her mistakes, and has learned the hard way that life without...

  23. Ep 128 - Aesha Tahir

    From Pakistan to Pennsylvania, and from computer science to exercise science, Aesha has made a journey to find her best life. Coach Aesha's skill and enthusiasm help her clients live a pain free life, and her positivity impacts everyone she meets (except for snakes.)

  24. Ep 127 - Kimberly Spencer

    As a leadership coach, Kim changes lives – but she did that in her prior careers as well from screenwriter to Pilates instructor. Her resilience and strength helped her break patterns of childhood trauma, and her creativity and ambition keep her "glittering" career moving forward. (Warning –...

  25. Ep 126 - Michael Marvosh

    My conversation with Michael changed my day and I only wish I had several hours to speak with him. He may have started out guessing what he was going to be, but he landed at a place where he shares his useful articulations of truth to our benefit. His views moved and motivated me and I trust you...

  26. Ep 125 - Chuck Thomas

    Chuck may say he is afraid of failing but I think he's relatively fearless. He's transitioned across a few different careers to become an outdoor mindfulness guide, and he is willing to explore a world without indoor plumbing. He certainly heeds his own advice – be flexible.

  27. Ep 124 - Jaciel Cordoba

    Speaking with Jaciel was delightful – he is genuine, upbeat, thoughtful, and kind. And incredibly brave – a news anchor who is comfortable singing and acting in a starring role! You won't see him headlining on a cruise ship, but if you have the chance to meet Jaciel, grab it.

  28. Ep 123 - Mary K. Savarese

    Mary is living her best life in West Palm Beach writing and bringing her positive attitude everywhere she goes – and it all started when she saw a tiger plunge into a bubble bath. As Mary says, never give up on yourself, and you are certain to find your joy and purpose.

  29. Ep 122 - Albert Lanier

    Albert surprised me – he started off quietly explaining how he ended up in Hawaii and his life in journalism, but ended up sharing some of the most interesting perspectives and life views. He is a different person now, and still on the quest to share truth, just like Clark Kent.

  30. Ep 121 - Cathy Colangelo

    Cathy has recreated her life more than once – from being brave enough to leave a job where the stress outweighed the joy, to coaching women at a seaside retreat, to running a nonprofit. And through it all, she has demonstrated her mantra – don't be afraid to look silly and don't compare yourself…

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  31. Ep 120 - Kim Sorrelle

    After losing her husband unexpectedly, Kim embarked on a journey to discover the true meaning of love. Spending much of her time in Haiti, Kim unveiled some simple yet powerful rules – service is healing, love is a constant, and begin by loving yourself. Her message is certain to stay with you.

  32. Ep 119 - Sylvia Shults

    She can trace her ancestors to the Mayflower and hold hands with ghosts. And though she has no fear of true crime stories and houses haunted by axe murderers, you won't find her anywhere near a mummy. Listen to Sylvia take us on a ride with some of the stories she tells in her books.

  33. Ep 118 - Sammy Kelly

    Sammy has several love languages – martial arts, video editing, and pierogies. And she is a barrel of energy and insight. Focusing on goals while staying open to possibility is the lesson we all need and it was a treat to learn what makes Sammy unique.

  34. Ep 117 - Lillian Brummet

    Lillian has had more challenges in her life than most of us and yet her resilience and persistence have brought her to a place where she shares love and kindness on a daily basis. She has a story that will move you and have you believing that the brownie recipe in her cookbook, From One Small...

  35. Ep 116 - Stephanie Wilson-Coleman

    Stephanie is the person we all need, with her straight no chaser style of motivation, and her insight on how to work through our stories and live our best life. She applied those lessons to her own life to triumph over challenges most of us have not had to face and help countless others along the...

  36. Ep 115 - Rex Beasley

    Rex has moved at least 40 times over his life and settled in the California desert to live out his dream of being an inventor, focusing on architecture and design so that we learn to do more with less. Transforming himself from an introvert to an extrovert, and not letting fear get in his way…

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  37. Ep 114 - Maren Cole

    Maren grew up on a farm with pride in her Viking heritage, taught herself to play the piano because she hated lessons, and supports herself while a full-time student. But more impressive is how she learned, after a traumatic experience, to reclaim her voice and just keep going.

  38. Ep 113 - Keith Guernsey

    When Keith instructs you to cultivate and keep a positive attitude, it's best to listen. He's used that lesson to survive brain surgery, lose 200 pounds, and defeat three different cancers. Just don't follow him if he decides to jump into Boston Harbor.

  39. Ep 112 - Angel Pretot

    Angel is a digital nomad and an international traveler who has mastered the art of teaching French even to the most linguistically challenged. But his superpower – in addition to a perfect quiche – is his ability to detect patterns both for himself and his students.

  40. Ep 111 - Jodi Jill

    Jodi has faced challenges and demonstrated bravery well beyond what most of us have experienced. And yet she lives life with joy and gratitude, with a generous perspective -- that we are always changing, and that we can all do better. She is continuously solving the puzzle of her own life and...

  41. Ep 110 - Cathy Weiss

    Cathy's road to becoming an official joy healer was not straightforward – she had to navigate her own anxiety and sensitive nature before discovering her purpose was to help women find joy and ease in their lives. Whether planning your trip to Disney or sharing lessons in her Joy Academy, Cathy...

  42. Ep 109 - Ronnie Ashmore

    Ronnie spent 20 years as a police officer, retired as Chief of Police in his Texas town, and is now the author he always wanted to be. He made a difference by catching the bad guys, and now he is living his message – no matter how farfetched the dream, take a chance.

  43. Ep 108 - Bernie

    Bernie is my new guru. He describes himself as disciplined because at 82 he still he walks 45 flights of stairs a day, but his more impressive attribute is his ability to simplify the wisdom he shares as a life coach. As Bernie says, we have only the present moment in time to make a choice – past...

  44. Ep 107 - Connie Edinger

    She's collaborated with famous musicians, but her greatest reward is working with her students – from 17 to 70. Connie has had a variety of experiences, including being a chef in the military, but her love of music and performing is her constant – along with her rule to count her blessings every...

  45. Ep 106 - Donna Harris

    If you are ever invited to a party hosted by Donna, you can be confident that she will make sure your needs are met. She is focused on making a connection, creating a supportive environment, and learning your love language. Even if she never gets the nerve to jump out of an airplane, I know she...

  46. Ep 105 - What Would You Do with an Extra 2 Hours?

    RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 2 — What Would You Do with an Extra 2 Hours? It's August, which is my birthday month and my favorite time of year to relax. So I'm still in the reflecting and revising phase of Curious Navel — which means another look back episode — with a different question this...

  47. Ep 104 - What Are You Most Afraid Of?

    RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 1 — What Are You Most Afraid Of? It's hard to believe but it's been 2 years since the birth of Curious Navel. And yes, it sounds odd, but I would call it a birth because there's been growth and change since those first episodes. And like dealing with a child, I'm...

  48. Ep 103 - Jim "Tank" Dorsey

    I am certain I have not interviewed someone who comes close to having the variety of experiences that Jim has had. From touring with a famous punk band to running a business, to power lifting, to becoming an international star as Lord Humongous, Jim is hyper-focused and enthusiastic about all of...

  49. Ep 102 - Roger Coyle

    Roger does something every day for the sole purpose of sharing some beauty and, hopefully, lifting someone up and providing solace or encouragement. He is grateful for everyone he meets and is most proud that he had the courage to get out of his car on one life-changing afternoon.

  50. Ep 101 - Robbie Lawrence

    Robbie is a young music teacher with an old soul, who adores his grandparents and polish pastries. And if, after listening to our conversation, you have not packed up your bags to travel to the nearest Polka festival, please reconsider as you might be missing out on something that could change…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Each week Jane Markson asks the same questions to anyone willing to answer, as she tries to figure out if we have more in common than just our navels. Whether we do or not doesn't matter — she's curious to ask, eager to listen, and enjoying conversations that wouldn't otherwise take place.

HOSTED BY

Jane Markson

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Curious Navel have?

Curious Navel currently has 150 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Curious Navel about?

Each week Jane Markson asks the same questions to anyone willing to answer, as she tries to figure out if we have more in common than just our navels. Whether we do or not doesn't matter — she's curious to ask, eager to listen, and enjoying conversations that wouldn't otherwise take place.

How often does Curious Navel release new episodes?

Curious Navel publishes regularly with 150 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to Curious Navel?

You can listen to Curious Navel on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Curious Navel?

Curious Navel is created and hosted by Jane Markson.
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