Diary of a Dreamer

What if the key to better behavior, stronger leadership, and healthier relationships isn't found in stricter rules, but in understanding how the brain works? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, Tasha Eizinger sits down with educator, author, and leadership expert Dr. Lisa Riegel to explore how brain science influences behavior, learning, anxiety, self-regulation, and personal growth. Drawing from decades of experience in education, leadership development, and neuroscience research, Dr. Riegel explains why many of our reactions happen long before we're consciously aware of them. She shares practical strategies for managing stress, developing self-awareness, building healthier habits, and creating environments where people can thrive in and out of the classroom. Whether you're a parent, educator, leader, entrepreneur, or someone interested in personal growth, this conversation offers practical tools you can start using immediately. Connect with Dr. Lisa Riegel Website: LisaRiegel.com Website: EPInstitute.com LinkedIn: Dr. Lisa Riegel Connect with Tasha Website: TashaEizinger.com Thank you for listening to Diary of a Dreamer, the podcast featuring inspiring conversations about personal growth, resilience, leadership, entrepreneurship, and pursuing meaningful dreams.

What does it take to grow a passion project into a thriving business with hundreds of thousands of followers? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Emily Christensen, founder of Country Roads Sourdough, to talk about her incredible journey from learning how to bake sourdough bread to building a business that reaches more than 800,000 followers across social media. Emily shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Country Roads Sourdough began, the challenges she faced while growing her brand, and the lessons she's learned about perseverance, community, and staying grounded while building a successful business. One of the most powerful parts of our conversation is Emily's reminder that success rarely happens alone. She talks about the importance of having encouraging people in your corner, continuing to show up when growth feels slow, and intentionally making time to recharge so you can sustain both your business and your well-being. Whether you're an entrepreneur, content creator, blogger, or someone pursuing a dream that feels bigger than your current circumstances, Emily's story is a powerful reminder that consistency and perseverance matter. Connect with Emily Christensen Website: CountryRoadsSourdough.com Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube: @countryroadssourdough Cookbooks: Same Day Sourdough Our Sourdough Table Visit Country Roads Sourdough for beginner-friendly sourdough recipes, baking guides, online classes, cookbooks, and practical tips that make sourdough approachable for home bakers. Emily's mission is to help others discover that sourdough doesn't have to be intimidating. It can be simple, enjoyable, and achievable for anyone.

In this episode, Tasha Eizinger sits down with civic advocate Sue Kesim to explore what real civic action looks like in everyday life and how ordinary people can create meaningful change in their communities. From city meetings and budgeting decisions to sidewalk repairs and legislation, Sue breaks down how local government actually works and how you can engage with it in practical, doable ways. She also shares her 3-3-3 Advocacy Framework, a simple method for focusing your message, taking action, and following through until change happens. In this episode: * What civic action means in real life * How to navigate local government and meetings * The 3-3-3 Advocacy Framework explained * Why follow-up is key to creating change * Simple ways to take action in your community Key takeaway: You don’t need a platform to create change. You need consistency and a willingness to show up. Learn more at TashaEizinger.com Connect with Sue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzankesim/ Sites Referenced: * Michiana Yardeners ~ https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1bcrtpML3Q/ * Green News ~ https://www.facebook.com/groups/168789573196263 * Michiana Observer ~ https://www.facebook.com/MichianaObserver * Lost and Found Dog Advice ~ https://www.Fab4Dogs.com * Write My Law ~ https://www.WriteMyLaw.com

What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t your circumstances but your mindset? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with mindset coach and nurse Regina Sloan to talk about overcoming people-pleasing, procrastination, overwhelm, and limiting beliefs. We discuss:
✔️ Therapy vs. coaching
✔️ The “Fishbowl Mindset”
✔️ Why asking for help is powerful
✔️ How to stop repeating old patterns
✔️ Practical tools for lasting personal growth Connect with Regina: [email protected] Instagram: @YourMindsetNurse Facebook: @ReginaSloan Connect with Tasha: tashaeizinger.com Instagram: @tashaeizinger Facebook: @TheLittleShot

What if the thing your business needs most… isn’t another strategy, but the right room? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, we’re sharing the heart behind The Elevated Entrepreneur Event: why we created it, who it’s for, and what makes it different from traditional small business events. As small business owners, we’ve both experienced what it feels like to build something from the ground up, navigating uncertainty, growth, and the pressure to figure everything out on your own. This event was created to change that for small business owners. If you’re craving real connection, fresh exposure for your business, and a space that actually supports your growth, this conversation is for you. See the speaker line up & buy your ticket here: https://ElevatedEntrepreneur.eventbrite.com Connect with some of the speakers: Keynote, Dan from the 1985 band: youtube.com/c/the1985 undergroundlaughlounge.com guides.lib.purdue.edu/ai stratoscreativemarketing.com theacademyofchaos.com sunnysgourmetproducts.com clevercatescaperooms.com soulstir.co arosieplace.org tashaeizinger.com www.irishrealty.net/agent/2071403-mary-cooper/

Can kids actually enjoy learning math? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, Tasha Eizinger sits down with Kathleen Cotter Clayton, curriculum developer for RightStart Mathematics, to explore a better way to teach math. Instead of worksheets and memorization, Kathleen shares how games, visual tools, and hands-on learning help kids truly understand math concepts. If your child struggles with math (or says they hate it) this conversation will change how you think about teaching numbers. You'll learn: • Why memorizing math facts often fails kids
 • How understanding concepts builds real confidence
 • Simple math games you can play with a deck of cards
 • Why fractions are easier than most people think
 • How parents can turn everyday moments into learning opportunities Kathleen also explains how the RightStart Mathematics program helps children build strong number sense through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning. Whether you're a parent, teacher, homeschool family, or simply someone who wants kids to enjoy learning, this episode will inspire you to rethink math education. Resources Mentioned: RightStart Math https://rightstartmath.com Discount Code (limited time): DREAMER25KC2 Explore more inspiration and resources: https://TashaEizinger.com About the Podcast: Diary of a Dreamer is hosted by author, speaker, and entrepreneur Tasha Eizinger. Each week she shares powerful stories and practical insights to help you build confidence, overcome obstacles, and pursue your dreams. Website: https://TashaEizinger.com

What happens when curiosity meets courage? In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Vinod, founder of Kids Explore Robotics, to talk about dreaming big, nurturing curiosity, and empowering the next generation of innovators through hands-on learning. Vinod shares his journey into robotics education, why fostering creativity and problem-solving in kids matters more than ever, and how parents, educators, and dreamers can help children see themselves as capable builders of the future. This conversation is a reminder that dreams don’t start fully formed — they begin with questions, experimentation, and permission to explore. If you care about education, entrepreneurship, innovation, creativity, or raising confident kids, this episode will inspire you to think differently about learning and leadership. Topics we cover: How curiosity fuels lifelong learning Robotics as a tool for confidence and creativity Encouraging kids to dream, build, and problem-solve What dreamers of all ages can learn from young innovators Learn more about Vinod and his work: https://www.kidsexplorerobotics.com

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, Tasha Eizinger sits down with Kelli Pearson, founder of Artful Math and author of the best-selling Kitten Math series, to challenge one of the most damaging beliefs many of us carry: “I’m just not a math person.” This conversation goes far beyond math. Kelli shares how learning becomes transformational when we replace memorization and pressure with meaning, curiosity, and play. Drawing from over 25 years of teaching experience, she explains why fear-based learning shuts down confidence and how understanding concepts visually and emotionally can change everything, for both children and adults. Whether you’re a parent, educator, entrepreneur, or someone who has quietly carried math anxiety into adulthood, this episode offers a powerful reframe: learning isn’t about speed or perfection. It’s about understanding. Connect with Kelli: https://artfulmath.com Shop: https://shop.artfulmath.com Find Your Child’s Math Superpower Quiz: https://artfulmath.com/quiz Special Listener Offer 20% off your order at shop.artfulmath.com Use code: DREAMER Books Referenced in This Episode Kitten Math by Kelli Pearson Kitten Math 2 by Kelli Pearson

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, Tasha Eizinger sits down with Jamie, founder of Humble Heart Press, homeschooling mother of five, Charlotte Mason co-op leader, and creator of the Homeschool Unburdened movement. This deeply practical and encouraging conversation explores how intentional systems, habit training, and community support can transform both homeschooling and entrepreneurship without burnout. Jamie shares how she built Humble Heart Press, an online printing company serving homeschool families and small business owners, by focusing on what truly matters, eliminating unnecessary complexity, and stewarding time and energy wisely. From simplifying printing options to creating publishing partnerships for curriculum creators, Jamie reveals how doing less, but doing it well, creates abundance. Humble Heart Press https://humbleheartpress.com Instagram: @humbleheartpress Special Listener Offer: $5 off your first order (Promo Code: DOADPODCAST) 15% off your next order when you join their email list Midwest Homeschool Expo https://www.theacademyofchaos.com/midwesthomeschoolexpotickets Books Referenced in This Episode: Atomic Habits by James Clear Laying Down the Rails by Sonia Schaefer Home Management: Plain and Simple by Kim Brenneman Introverted Mom by Jamie C. Martin

This final episode in the Diary Unlocked series is a continuation of Pt. 4 - Ignoring your intuition always costs something. In this episode, I share how someone taught me a painful but necessary lesson about boundaries and self-trust. I didn’t listen to my inner voice, and I learned the hard way why intuition exists in the first place. If you’ve ever said, “I knew better, but I didn’t listen,” this episode is for you. 🎧 Diary of a Dreamer is a podcast about personal growth, leadership, creativity, and becoming who you’re meant to be even when the lesson hurts. 👉 Subscribe for honest conversations and real-life reflection.

Ignoring your intuition always costs something. In this episode, I share how two people taught me a painful but necessary lesson about boundaries and self-trust. I didn’t listen to my inner voice, and I learned the hard way why intuition exists in the first place. If you’ve ever said, “I knew better, but I didn’t listen,” this episode is for you. 🎧 Diary of a Dreamer is a podcast about personal growth, leadership, creativity, and becoming who you’re meant to be even when the lesson hurts. 👉 Subscribe for honest conversations and real-life reflection.

In this Diary of a Dreamer episode, Tasha Eizinger sits down with speaker, author, and Soulstir founder Mike Brown. Mike shares the powerful story behind his children’s books, the social impact mission tied to each title, and how his journey, including navigating seizures and major health challenges, has shaped his purpose. You’ll hear about:
 • Mike’s path from Notre Dame’s 1st Black Leprechaun to author and change maker
 • How Little Netta’s Gift was born during a historic moment in 2020
 • The creation of Soulstir and its mission to support literacy and social good
 • Why small actions create big community change
 • How Mike continues his work despite chronic health hurdles
 • A special discount code for listeners (10% off) Connect with Mike and explore his books: soulstir.co

 Connect with Tasha: TashaEizinger.com

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I chat with Jenny Craig-Brown, Executive Director of GreatNews.Life and founder/host of the All About the Girls podcast & annual women’s empowerment event, to explore what it looks like to build media and community that uplifts, connects, and gives voice to the Great News as well as women. Jenny is not just a media leader. She’s a graphic designer by trade turned positive-news champion who has learned from her past to create safe, beautiful spaces for women. After listening, I’m confident everyone will want to be friends with Jenny! The next All About the Girls event is June 25, 2026! Connect with Jenny & Her Work: GreatNews.Life (Includes the links for All About the Girls) Instagram: @greatnews.life and @allaboutthegirlsofficial Facebook: @greatnewslife and @allaboutthegirls

In this Diary of a Dreamer solo episode, Tasha Eizinger shares a simple, intentional process for reflecting on your life, setting smarter goals, and creating daily habits that help you grow. Learn how to use “buckets,” tracking, and quick end-of-day reflection to bring more clarity, peace, and purpose into your routine. Topics include:
 • How to choose your life “buckets”
 • Setting meaningful goals that actually stick
 • Tracking progress without overwhelm
 • A 5-minute nightly reflection practice
 • Why intentional living reduces chaos
 • How to create a personal “calibration vacation” Connect with Tasha: TashaEizinger.com Subscribe for more tools to help you live intentionally and grow with confidence.

In this life changing episode, I talk with Aviva who used to work with OptimalWork, where she worked alongside Harvard psychiatrist Dr. Kevin Majeres. She shares simple neuroscience tools for managing anxiety, improving focus, and building resilience. We cover:
 The difference between psychology and neuroscience
 How to turn anxiety into useful energy
 Morning habits that support mental clarity
 How to work in 60 to 90 minute focus cycles
 Why exercise, nutrition, and service help your brain thrive Connect with OptimalWork:
 Website: https://optimalwork.com
 Podcast: The OptimalWork Podcast 30% discount for Diary of a Dreamer listeners.  Sweatshirt Tasha was wearing is from PearsonCo Connect with Tasha:
https://TashaEizinger.com Subscribe if this episode helps you.

In this heartfelt and honest episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Allie, co-host of Good Grief Momma Podcast, to talk about the realities of motherhood, marriage, and modern comparison culture. Together, we explore how social media has magnified the pressure to “do it all” from parenting and homeschooling to maintaining the perfect home and body and why it’s time to trade comparison for connection. Allie shares her journey, the inspiration behind Good Grief Momma, and her passion for creating a “middle ground” space for moms, one that’s relatable but also uplifting. The conversation dives into the tension between authenticity and oversharing, the hidden struggles behind seemingly “perfect” lives, and how comparison often blinds us to the full story. From social media highlight reels to messy kitchens, sourdough loaves, and unexpected Mountain Dew confessions, this episode is a reminder that motherhood isn’t about perfection. It’s about grace, growth, and finding humor in the chaos. Referenced Episode:
Allie mentions the Good Grief Momma Podcast episode “Comparison Culture” Listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/00ugveAt47iLsCPWY42g3g?si=l30z5-rtQK2m-dx-vYBoLQ Also Referenced: The Midwest Homeschool Expo. Get Tickets - https://www.theacademyofchaos.com/midwesthomeschoolexpotickets Connect with Good Grief Momma: Listen on Spotify: Good Grief Momma Podcast Instagram: @goodgriefmommapodcast Facebook: @goodgriefmomma

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Eryn Beechem, founder of Whole Person Organizing, LLC, to explore how understanding your brain and embracing your unique strengths can turn everyday chaos into calm. Eryn shares her journey from discovering her ADHD diagnosis to launching a business that helps others organize their homes and live in ways that actually work for them. We discuss small wins, practical organization strategies, and why grace (not perfection) is the key to lasting change. Connect with Eryn:
wholepersonorganizingllc.com
 Email: [email protected]  Facebook: @wholepersonorganizingllc Midwest Homeschool Expo 2026 Tickets: https://www.theacademyofchaos.com/midwesthomeschoolexpotickets

In this special bonus episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow small business owner, Sunny Kaminski. She owns Sunny's Gourmet Products. Her products are staples in my home, and her business journey is a source of inspiration for me! Sunny has been in business for 30 years, and is expanding her business through her website, CookUnity, and 2KoreanGirls. She even shares about getting her products into T. J. Maxx. If want to learn what it takes to make a big dream a reality, you will want to listen in to this episode!

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Lauren Bailey, a passionate and experienced special educator and administrator with 20 years in the field. Lauren has built innovative special education and virtual learning programs, all while raising six children in rural Indiana. She’s a Purdue Ph.D. student, Ball State master’s graduate, and now the Director at Braintree Academy, where she leads special education, RTI, and policy work. Together, we discuss: The importance of healthy communication between educators and parents How to build trust and collaboration in special education The flexibility and intentionality behind Braintree Academy’s virtual learning model Why family advocacy and educational choice matter now more than ever Lauren shares real stories of working with students, families, and educators to find solutions that support both academic and emotional growth. From field trips to flexible curriculums, she reminds us that education can be both structured and compassionate. We also talk about the Midwest Homeschool Expo in Indianapolis which is a powerful gathering that connects families with resources, curriculum options, and community. (Get tickets: https://www.theacademyofchaos.com/midwesthomeschoolexpotickets) If you’re a parent, educator, or lifelong learner looking for more flexibility and family-centered education, this conversation is for you. Connect with Braintree Academy 🌐 Website: Braintree4Me.com
 📧 Email: [email protected]
 📞 Phone: 574-218-3812 About Braintree Academy:
Braintree Academy offers flexible, family-driven education across six states, supporting students from preschool through high school with customizable programs and community engagement.

In this third part of The Diary Unlocked series, my dear friend Kelly Bell and I continue the conversation. This time we walk through one of the most unexpected and challenging chapters of my life. From losing my dad to navigating new dreams, my body suddenly started to fail me. What began as exhaustion and coughing turned into months of doctors, confusion, and eventually a wheelchair (only on my worst days!). Life as I knew it was stripped away. In this episode, I open up about what it looked like to rebuild slowly, stubbornly, and with a lot of faith. From jogging again to eventually crossing the finish line of a half Ironman, I share how resilience, community, and humor helped me hold on when it all felt impossible. If you’ve ever faced a season that broke you down to rebuild you, this episode is for you.

In this second part of The Diary Unlocked series, my dear friend Kelly Bell continues to interview me turning the spotlight on some of the most pivotal years of my life. Together, we walk through my college journey: choosing Purdue, navigating toxic relationships, discovering my love for teaching, and ultimately facing one of the most devastating moments of my life, the sudden loss of my dad. This conversation is filled with raw honesty, lessons on resilience, and the reality of grief: the numbness, the survival mode, and the slow journey of finding gratitude and purpose again. I share how I chose to keep going, honor my dad’s legacy, and let tragedy shape me into someone stronger rather than bitter. If you’ve ever faced heartbreak, struggled with self-worth, or wondered how to keep moving forward when life brings you to your knees, this episode is for you.

In this special series of Diary of a Dreamer, my dear friend Kelly Bell turns the tables and interviews me on my own podcast. Together, we open up “The Diary Unlocked,” where I share parts of my story that shaped who I am today: growing up in small-town Indiana, the lessons from my family, and the resilience forged through life’s most difficult moments. We talk about childhood memories, faith, family, trauma, and how those early experiences continue to influence my journey as a business owner, author, and dreamer. This episode is filled with raw honesty, hope, and reminders that your story, no matter how hard, can become a source of strength and courage. If you’ve ever wondered about the heart behind Diary of a Dreamer, this is the episode where the curtain pulls back.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Ashlee, owner of Splish Splash Salon and a fearless entrepreneur. We talk about leaving your comfort zone, growing a business, and learning to trust the slow process of growth. Ashlee shares her story of turning passion into action, and overcoming generational curses. Whether you're a beauty professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or navigating your own career transition, this episode is full of real-talk, mindset shifts, and motivation to chase your next level.

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Dreamer, we step into the ring, both literal and metaphorical, with Suzana Rodriguez-Griffin, a trailblazing Latina who’s rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a fighter. Suzana is not only the first professional Latina boxer from Indiana, but also a first-generation college graduate with a Master’s degree, a successful business owner of SRG Boxing, and founder of La Jefa Productions.We explore Suzana’s Mexican heritage, the cultural pride that fuels her discipline, her journey to become a professional boxer, and business advice based on her 15 years of business experience. Whether you're into combat sports, cultural identity, or stories of resilience and reinvention, this episode hits hard in all the right ways.Most recent update (As of July 2025): Suzana just won the WBF Intercontinental World Champion title and is headed to Chicago at the end of August to go for the UBO title belt, too. 

In this episode, we’re reframing the way you think about networking. If it’s ever felt awkward, scary, or gross, this one’s for you. I’m sharing how I went from social anxiety to confidently building real relationships that helped grow my professional and personal life.You’ll learn how to connect with others in a way that feels natural and kind, why follow-up matters more than you think, and how to protect your energy while still showing up with purpose. Networking doesn’t have to be transactional, it can be genuine, fun, and life changing.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I interview experienced realtor Mary Cooper to explore the powerful role of resilience, relationship building, and integrity in creating long-term success in real estate. Mary opens up about making the right choice when it’s not always clear, the importance of staying the course, and why putting people first is key to thriving in a competitive industry. Whether you're a new agent, a seasoned professional, or someone chasing big dreams, this conversation with help you build a business and life rooted in integrity.Get in contact with Mary: WelcomeHomeMichiana.com

In this episode, I dive deep into the moment I realized that if I wanted to earn an income from my book series, I had to transform it into a diverse business. I share how turning your book into more than just a published work can unlock opportunities for steady revenue, growth, and long-term success. This episode is packed with practical advice for authors who want to leverage their book as the foundation of a thriving, multi-faceted business.Whether you're considering creating courses, merchandise, coaching programs, or speaking engagements, I’ll guide you through the steps of turning your passion for writing into a sustainable income stream. Get ready to take your author journey to the next level!✨ Key Takeaways:Why turning your book into a business is essential for long-term success.How to diversify your revenue streams beyond book sales.Practical ideas for creating additional income channels using your book.Steps to help you build a business around your author brand.If you're an author dreaming of creating multiple income sources through your book, this episode is for you!

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I chat with Marsha Tufft, an engineer and award-winning author, about the power of letting kids make mistakes and take responsibility for their education. Marsha shares her mission to inspire the inner inventor in all of us—to get curious, embrace learning, and keep exploring! Learn more from Marsha at https://marshatufft.com/

The Author's Guide continues on Diary of a Dreamer! In this episode, we’re diving into your printing options. Whether you’re thinking about print-on-demand, offset printing, or something else entirely, choosing the right method for your book is crucial to both cost and distribution. I’ll walk you through the different options, the pros and cons, and how to decide what works best for your project.(If you missed the previous episodes in The Author's Guide, we’ve already covered publishing routes and building your author team, so be sure to check those out!)Check out my blogs about becoming an author: tashaeizinger.com/blog

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I sit down with Lisa Tussey, a homeschooling pioneer who started when it was illegal, and now empowers others to create online courses through her Summit First Framework. Tune in to hear her incredible journey and how she's helping people transform their expertise into impactful online courses! Check out Lisa’s work at https://connectedcoursedesigns.com/im-giving-my-framework-away-for-free/ 

So, you’ve got a book idea—what’s next? In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most important decisions you'll make on your author journey: choosing your publishing route. Should you go traditional, self-publishing, or hybrid? I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option and explain why this choice is key to your book’s success.(As the published author of The Little Shot series, in my previous episode in this series, I guided you step-by-step from ideation to building your team, and I shared insights on marketing your book.)✨ Recommended Resources:SCORE: score.orgIUSB SBDC: isbdc.orgStratos Creative Marketing: stratoscreatingmarketing.comMy Blog: https://tashaeizinger.com/the-authors-guide-publishing/https://scribemedia.com/book-publishing-options/https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/publishing/preparation/w/choosing-a-path/7247/4-ways-to-publish-a-book-in-2025

You may have a book idea. So, what next? How do you go from an idea to a book you can hold in your hands? I am the published author of The Little Shot book series and will walk you through each step to creating your book from ideation through building your team and basics of marketing your book. In episodes coming soon, I will also share your publishing options and printing options. Resources referenced: SCORE - score.orgIUSB - isbdc.orgStratos Creative Marketing: stratoscreativemarketing.com

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, we dive into the world of human resources from the perspective of someone who's worked with six-figure tech companies and has built her own small business. Louise, owner of Talent Underlined, shares valuable insights on the critical role HR plays in the success of small businesses, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to build strong, effective teams. We also explore why HR has had a negative reputation in the past and how it can be redefined as a mediator and communicator, fostering better relationships between business owners and employees. Tune in to discover how rethinking HR can help your small business thrive!

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, part of the Mastering Resilience series, I reflect on the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges. I do a brief recap of the other episodes in this series. I also discuss stepping out of my comfort zone, especially in my network marketing journey, where I learned to connect with strangers despite my initial social anxiety. I hope to encourage you to embrace mistakes, stay resilient, and believe in your ability to achieve your dreams.

In this episode, Jean opens up about the challenges and rewards of family life, homeschooling, and running a small business. She emphasizes the power of in-person connections, sharing how those moments recharge and fuel her passion. Jean talks about the importance of clear goal-setting and tracking progress, offering advice for small business owners to stay focused and intentional. From personal struggles to business growth, Jean highlights the significance of community support and self-care, and how even small wins—like taking a break—can contribute to long-term success. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical tips on running a small business while balancing family life.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, I dive into mastering resilience by focusing on the importance of building the right team around you. I share my personal experience of ignoring the warning that "you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with" and how that nearly cost me everything—my business, my dreams, and my peace of mind. Through reflection and embracing the courage from my first book, I realized that team building starts with strengthening myself first. Now, I’ve built a stronger, more aligned team, and in this episode, I share the key lessons I’ve learned along the way. Tune in to discover how “you can’t do it all alone, but you can with the right team.”

In this inspiring episode of Diary of a Dreamer, meet Jackie Walker, the Dr. of Closetology,  as she shares her journey of helping people find their “own kind of beautiful.” With a background in retail and HR, Jackie’s expertise goes beyond fashion—she believes in unlocking the true potential of individuals, helping them embrace their personal style and build a positive mindset. Jackie’s adventurous spirit shines through as she talks about her love for living life fully—whether that means channeling her inner mermaid or diving deep into her passions. We also get a sneak peek into her upcoming memoir, where she reflects on the lessons, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped her. Tune in to hear how you, too, can find your passion, step into your power, and live a beautiful, fulfilling life! 

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer from the Mastering Resilience series, I share the story of how I went from being the worst swimmer on my team—receiving the dreaded "pity clap"—to becoming the MVP my senior year. That experience taught me a powerful lesson: tether yourself to the process, not the outcome. By staying committed and focusing on the journey rather than the rewards, I transformed my mindset and my performance. Tune in to hear how embracing discipline and the right mindset can lead to remarkable change.

In this deeply moving episode of Diary of a Dreamer, join special guests representing the Children’s Museum of South Bend. Born from a profound loss, the museum was created to honor the founder’s young son, offering a space where children can explore, learn, and let their imaginations soar. We discuss how this interactive, affordable museum has become a beloved community hub, turning grief into a legacy of joy, creativity, and endless possibilities for families.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, part of the Mastering Resilience series, I share a personal story about collapsing on my way to the bathroom and how it taught me a valuable lesson about goal-setting. No matter how strong your mindset, some things are out of your control.I talk about the importance of setting goals, making adjustments when life doesn’t go as planned, finding humor in the chaos, and celebrating each step of the journey.Life’s unpredictable, but resilience is about taking it one step at a time. Tune in for a reminder that you can still live your dreams, even in the face of setbacks!

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Dreamer, special guest Ben Hinton, author of Let Faith Grow: Running Through Adversity, shares his incredible story of overcoming life's toughest challenges. From surviving a rare brain disease as a child to battling a traumatic brain injury, Ben’s journey of faith, resilience, and determination will inspire you to push through any obstacle.Tune in to hear how Ben’s unwavering faith helped him defy the odds and transform his life, from marathon running to personal growth. His story will leave you motivated to embrace faith and persevere through adversity.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, Tasha Eizinger shares insights from her health journey, reflecting on how facing challenges has built her strength and resilience. She recalls a key lesson from her swim coach—"Your body can do more than it thinks it can"—and explains how understanding the reticular activating system can help rewire our mindset to overcome limits. Tune in for an inspiring take on pushing past mental barriers and trusting your own strength.

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, join special guest Rochelle Miller, a certified Maxwell coach, trainer, and speaker, for a conversation about Debt Detox: Finding Financial Freedom. We cover everything from budgeting and smart spending (yes, even when it comes to Starbucks) to the financial roadmap you need to reach your goals. We also compare money management to Mapquest—because who doesn't miss printing directions before hitting the road, right? Get ready for a fun, insightful chat as Rochelle shares how you can navigate your finances and work toward lasting financial freedom!Get in contact with Rochelle -Email: [email protected] Instagram: @growwith_ro

In this powerful podcast episode, we dive into the transformative power of resilience—each of us has faced challenges we thought we could never overcome. Join me as I share a deeply personal chapter from my 20s, revealing the struggles and triumphs that have shaped who I am today. This is the beginning of a six-part series packed with inspiring stories, impactful mindset shifts, and practical tips to help you forge your path to living your best life. Tune in and discover how your own resilience can lead to extraordinary growth!

In this episode of Diary of a Dreamer, we welcome author Sarah May, who shares insights from her book "Don't Pack That." Join us as she reveals must-see locations around the globe, recounts her wildest travel adventure where she thought she might die, and offers practical tips on how to make traveling more affordable. Plus, Sarah discusses her strategies for traveling with kids, ensuring that family trips are both fun and memorable. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will ignite your wanderlust!

It's been about 4 years since I have been able to record for my podcast. In this first episode in "season 2," allow me to reintroduce myself and share a bit of what to expect in future episodes. 

In this episode, I interview my friend, Melissa Hicks, to learn how she has been processing the Black Lives Matter Movement to become better! She shares about her upbringing and how she has chosen to change some of the messaging she received as a child. 

Jeremy and I have had many in depth conversations over the years. This conversation we decided to share because it's crucial people start creating changes within their own heart. 

Happy Mother's Day! Enjoy learning about motherhood from one of the wisest moms I know - my friend, Wendy Docter. She she shares about her experiences raising biological and adopted children, strong-willed children, and how to navigate the challenging waters of motherhood. This was a delightful interview that I am sure you will enjoy. 

We can’t always choose the hand we’re dealt, but we can choose how we play the hand.