PODCAST · kids
Jess Saying With Jessica Danel
by Jess Saying
Jess Saying is where real talk meets real life—with a side of sass. From parenting curveballs and small-town drama to building businesses and surviving life’s messiest moments, host Jessica Danel dives headfirst into the unfiltered truth. It’s honest, hilarious, sometimes heavy, and always human. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or shouting “YES!” in your car, you’re not alone. She’s just saying what we’re all thinking.
Episodes
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Episode 64, A Holistic Path to Confidence with Dr. Alexandra Dotcheva
In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Dr. Alexandra Dotcheva—author, healthcare professional, investor, and holistic confidence coach—for a conversation that might just change the way you see yourself. Alexandra's journey isn't a highlight reel. It's twenty years of self-doubt, fear…
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Episode 63, From PTSD to Powerhouse. The Journey of Le-an Lai Lacaba
She survived Typhoon Haiyan. She started working online at 15. She became a CEO at 20, and now, at 29, Le-an Lai Lacaba leads a 50+ person outsourcing company while building a second startup in the AI space. In this episode of Jess Saying, Jessica Danel sits down with Le-an to talk about trauma,...
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Episode 62, Trading Clutter for Memories with Mic Foster
Tired of birthday parties that leave your living room buried under a mountain of forgotten toys? In this episode of Jess Saying, Jessica Danel sits down with Mic Foster, dad of three and founder of No Gifts Please, the experience registry helping families trade toy clutter for memories that last....
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Episode 61, Helping Kids with ADHD Learn Their Way with Dr. Emily Levy
In this conversation, Dr. Emily Levy, an educational expert and founder of EBL Coaching, shares her journey in special education and the importance of recognizing children's learning challenges. She discusses the various strategies used to support students with ADHD and learning disabilities, the...
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Episode 60, Real Talk on Raising Responsible Kids with Colleen Souza
In this conversation, Colleen Souza discusses the importance of core values such as self-control, respect, positivity, and hard work. She emphasizes how these values have influenced her family, classroom, and business. With a background in psychology and education, she shares insights from her...
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Episode 59, From Boardrooms to Bookworms. How One Woman Shook the World—Gently
In this conversation, Steph Katzovi discusses her journey of transforming her childhood experiences into compelling stories. She reflects on her time at sleepaway camp, which was not a pleasant memory, and how it inspired her to write. Through writing, she explores the emotions tied to her past…
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Episode 58, Understanding Human Nature with Septemics created by Jim Marshall
The conversation delves into the complexities of human relationships and the significant impact of miscommunication in industrialized society. Jim Marshall emphasizes that a lack of understanding among individuals leads to widespread issues, highlighting the importance of interpersonal skills and...
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Episode 57, Real Stories from a Spiritual Warrior with D Paul
What happens when a U.S. Navy veteran becomes a Native American Holy Man—and devotes his life to battling evil, cleansing spirits, and healing the broken? In this gripping episode of Jess Saying, we welcome D. Paul—a Heyoka, healer, and ordained spiritual warrior who walks the razor’s edge…
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Episode 56, Finding Healing Through Storytelling with John Dedakis
In this conversation, John DeDakis discusses the deep connection between his identity and the characters he creates, particularly focusing on the emotional experiences that transcend gender. He emphasizes that while he is not a woman, the insights he has gained from the women in his life inform…
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Episode 55, When High-Achieving Women Are Targeted by Narcissists with Marysol James
In this conversation, Marisol James shares her inspiring journey from a corporate career to becoming a best-selling romance author. She discusses her experiences with illness, the challenges of transitioning to writing, and the impact of narcissistic relationships on her life. Marisol emphasizes...
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Episode 54, The Power of Words, How One Mom Defied Doctors’ Predictions
In this conversation, Jessica Danel speaks with Jeaneen Tang, a speech language pathologist and mother, about her journey into the field of speech therapy, the challenges she faced as a parent of a child with special needs, and the importance of early intervention and advocacy in education.…
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Episode 53, One Mother’s Fight to Reclaim Her Life with Julie Barth
Welcome back to Jess Saying. Today’s episode is about rising from the ashes — literally and emotionally. My guest, Julie Barth, is a mother of six, author, and founder of the Colin James Barth Outreach, a nonprofit helping women rebuild after trauma and crisis. Julie’s story is one of…
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Episode 52, From Pages to Purpose with Mila Maxwell
In this heartfelt episode of Jess Saying, I sit downwith mother, and volunteer firefighter Mila Maxwell, author of Finding Lady Baltimore. Mila shares the deeply personal story of growing up alongside her sister with disabilities—and how that experience shaped not only her book, but her approach…
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Episode 51, How to Stay Grounded with Strong-Willed Kids with Melissa Schulz
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Melissa Schulz discuss the challenges and rewards of parenting, particularly for neurodiverse and strong-willed children. Melissa shares her journey from working with at-risk youth to founding a behavioral health company and transitioning into parenting...
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Episode 50, Breaking the Beliefs That Fuel Anxiety with Sabrina Trobak
In this powerful episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Canadian clinical counsellor and author Sabrina Trobak to explore how early messages around worth, importance, and value shape the way we think, feel, and show up in our lives. Sabrina shares tools from her book Not Good Enough and breaks...
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Episode 49, A Marine’s Mission to Equip the Next Generation with Olaolu Ogunyemi
What does it take to lead at home, at work, and within yourself—especially in a world that celebrates the spotlight over service? In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Marine Officer, father, and award-winning author Olaolu Ogunyemi to explore the life-shaping power of intentional...
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Episode 48, One Woman’s Mission to Educate, Equip, and Empower with Gail Showalter
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Gail Showalter discuss the challenges faced by single mothers, particularly in pursuing education and career opportunities. Gail shares her personal journey and the founding of her organization, Single Moms Empowered, which aims to support single mothers in...
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Episode 47, Reinventing Midlife with Terri Hanson Mead
Who says your best years are behind you after 40? On this episode, Jessica Danel sits down with helicopter pilot, angel investor, and midlife troublemaker Terri Hanson Mead—a woman on a mission to help others blow up the boxes society handed them. Terri shares her unapologetic take on the "messy...
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Episode 46, From Mom Life to Mythic Worlds, The Legendary Guardians of J.F. Monroe
Step into a world where angels, demons, and humans collide—and where the line between love and duty isn’t so clear. In thisepisode, Jessica Danel sits down with fantasy author J.F. Monroe, whose LegendaryGuardians series reimagines the Four Horsemen mythology through heart, humor, and high…
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Episode 45, Menopause, Meltdowns, and Career Reboots with Wendy Alexander
In this engaging conversation, Wendy Alexander shares her remarkable journey from growing up in apartheid South Africa to becoming a successful career coach and author. She discusses the challenges of single motherhood, the importance of resilience, and the journey of reinventing oneself in...
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Episode 44, From Hardware Stores to Hard Truths, Finding Your True North with David Ask
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews entrepreneur and inventor David Ask, who shares his journey from invention to entrepreneurship. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating innovative solutions, the importance of authenticity, and the role of fathers in shaping...
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Episode 43, From Long Island to the Vatican, Rosamaria Mancini on Parenting, Podcasts, and Culture Shocks
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Rosa Maria Mancini, a podcaster and author of the memoir 'SOS Podcasts.' Rosa sharesher journey of moving from Italy to Germany, the cultural challenges she faced, and how podcasts became a lifeline during her expat life. The discussion…
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Episode 42, Raising Readers in a Digital World with Dr. Bill Senyard
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Bill Senyard, an award-winning fantasy author, about his book series, 'The Kingdom Quest.' They explore the intersection of faith and fantasy, the importance of storytelling in shaping values, and the impact of social media on youth. Bill...
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Episode 41, Redefining Success at Any Age with Maria Garaitonandia
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel and Maria Garaitonandia explore the multifaceted world of solopreneurship, communication,and personal reinvention. Maria shares her journey from being a professor to becoming a solopreneur and award-winning speaker, emphasizing the importance of...
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Episode 40, Stories that Heal, how a Grandmother Turned Advocacy into Fantasy with T.L. McCoy
In this engaging conversation, T.L. McCoy shares the inspiration behind her children's book, 'Delilah's Versus the Gastly Grimm,' which was written for her grandchild with Gervais syndrome. The discussion delves into the importance of representation in children's literature, the challenges of...
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Episode 39, The ER Diaries. Surviving Trauma, Pandemic Pressure, and Finding Joy Again
In this engaging conversation, Nurse Jennifer Johnson shares her journey as an ER nurse and author of 'Nursing Intuition.' She discusses the importance of trusting one's gut in patient care, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding nursing career, and the impact of COVID-19 on the...
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Episode 38, Hope After Struggle, Breaking Free from Addiction’s Shadow with Steve Ward
In this conversation, Steve Ward shares his transformative journey from a high-functioning alcoholic to a purpose-driven individual dedicated to helping others. He discusses his struggles with addiction, the pivotal moments that led to his recovery, and the founding of his nonprofit, Steps...
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Episode 37, Legacy in the Breakroom with Jim Tracy
In this engaging conversation, Jim Tracy, affectionately known as the Grampian, shares his insights on leadership, culture, and the importance of family in business. He discusses his unique approach to understanding workplace culture by connecting with employees at all levels, the challenges of...
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Episode 36, From Surviving to Guiding, Stacy Schaffer’s Journey of Resilience
In this conversation, Jessica Danel interviews licensed professional counselor Stacy Schaefer, who shares her personal journey of overcoming a traumatic childhood and how it shaped her path into counseling. Stacy discusses the importance of addressing childhood trauma, the impact of generational...
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Episode 35, Peace, Purpose, and Potential, A Conversation with Amy Lenius
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel speaks with Amy Lenius, a holistic self-improvement coach, about her journey overcoming chronic illness and the importance of holistic health. They discuss the significance of self-worth, the role of mindset in healing, and practical tools for personal...
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Episode 34, Struggle into Strength, A Conversation with Anil Gupta
In this engaging conversation, Anil Gupta, known as 'The Love Doctor, ' shares insights from his book 'Immediate Happiness.' He discusses his journey from despair to fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of support from loved ones, self-awareness, and effective communication in relationships....
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Episode 33, Indie Doesn’t Mean Amateur, The Truth About Self-Publishing
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Michele DeFilippo discuss the complexities and realities of independent publishing. They explorethe misconceptions surrounding traditional and hybrid publishing, the importance of understanding the economics of book sales, and the necessity of professional...
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Episode 32, From Broken to Brave, Riding into a New Chapter
In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Teri M. Brown, an author and resilience advocate, who shares her transformative journey of healing through a tandem bike adventure across the United States. Teri discusses her past experiences with emotional abuse, the importance of...
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Episode 31, Once Upon a Dark Twist; Fairytales, Romance, and Reinvention with Bria Rose
In this engaging conversation, Bria Rose, a romance author, shares her journey from working at Disney to becoming a dark romance writer. She discusses the influence of Disney on her storytelling, the complexities of characters in her retellings, and her independent publishing journey. Bria offers...
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Episode 30, When Your Ex Turns the Kids Against You with Lisa Johnson
In this conversation, I’m joined by high-conflict divorce strategist and author Lisa Johnson to unpack legal abuse—when an ex weaponizes the justice system to exhaust you emotionally and financially. We get practical: red flags to watch for, how to document every interaction without losing your...
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Episode 29, Faith, Family, and the Fight for Inclusion with John Fela
Parenting a child with disabilities is never simple—but it can be profoundly transformative. In this episode of Jess Saying, Jessica sits down with John Fela, who calls himself the “Swiss Army Knife of Disability Advocacy.” As the father of a 16-year-old son with autism who is also nonverbal, a...
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Episode 28, The Power of Positivity with Fiona Demark
Motherhood is beautiful but messy, and sometimes it feels like life’s challenges pile on all at once. In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Fiona Demark — a professional speaker, coach, and author — to talk about how moms can cultivate resilience, reframe challenges, and prioritize…
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Episode 27, From Debt to Disruption, Exposing the Credit Card Illusion
In this conversation, Tommy Kilpatrick shares his journey of overcoming $85,000 in credit card debt through a unique legal approach. He discusses how he uncovered what he believes to be bank fraud and the importance of understanding the nature of credit cards and loans. Tommy emphasizes the need...
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Episode 26, Michelle Choairy on Raising Complex Kids
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Michelle Choairy discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with complex needs. They share personal stories about their experiences in the NICU, the journey of diagnosis, and the importance of advocacy and support for parents. Michelle...
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Episode 25, Clutter-Free Living, The Mindset Shift You Need with Lucy Wahl
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Lucy Milligan Wahl discuss the intricacies of home organization, emphasizing the psychological aspects of clutter and the importance of establishing effective systems. Lucy shares her expertise on decluttering, organizing, and the emotional ties people have...
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Episode 24, A Cup of Tea on the Commode, Finding Joy and Humor in Caregiving
What happens when you trade bachelor life for caregiving? Mark Steven Porro, author of the award-winning memoir A Cup of Tea on the Commode, shares his unforgettable journey caring for his ninety-year-old mother. Through humor, love, and resilience, Mark found joy in one of life’s hardest roles —...
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Episode 23, The Power of Resilience with Pauline Victoria
What does it take to rise when the odds are stacked against you? In this powerful and inspiring episode, Jessica Danel sits down with Pauline Victoria—an unstoppable thought leader born without arms or legs—who’s made it her mission to help others transform their struggles into strength. From...
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Episode 22, Badges and Bedtime Stories, A Millennial Dad’s Perspective
What does a law enforcement officer turned mystery novelist know about parenting that most of us don’t? A lot, it turns out. In this episode, Jessica sits down with Rodney, a millennial dad of an 11-year-old girl, to talk about the highs and lows of raising kids in today’s world. With over 20…
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Episode 21, Raising Future Ready Kids with Sid Mohasseb
In this engaging conversation, Sid Mohasseb, an entrepreneur philosopher, shares his journey from being an immigrant to becoming a successful entrepreneur and educator. He discusses the importance of igniting creativity in education through his non-academic academy, Anabasis Academy, which…
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Episode 20, A Survival Guide for Exhausted Parents with Craig Parks
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Craig, a seasoned camp director, youth educator, musician, and father of two, including one child on the autism spectrum, to discuss how exhausted parents can reclaim their joy. With over 30 years of experience wrangling wild kids and calming the daily…
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Episode 19, Raising Tomorrow’s Leaders with Barbara Mojica
In this conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Barbara Mojica, an experienced educator and author of children's books. They discuss Barbara's extensive teaching career, her transition to special education, and the importance of early intervention for children with special needs. Barbara shares…
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Episode 18, From Rose-Colored Glasses to Real Life with Kate Mageau
In this conversation, Jessica Danel speaks with Kate Mageau, author of 'The Rose-Colored Glasses,' about her personal journey through an abusive relationship and her subsequent work as a therapist. They discuss the complexities of toxic relationships, the importance of support systems, and the...
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Episode 17, Shining a Light on Childhood Shadows with Shannon Curtis
In this conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Shannon Curtis, author of 'No More Monsters Under My Bed,' a children's hybrid book that addresses trauma and healing. Shannon shares her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and the healing process through various therapies,...
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Episode 16, Museflow. The Future of Learning Piano with Patrick Boylan
In this conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Patrick Boylan, co-founder of Museflow, a music app designed to teach piano in an engaging and gamified manner. Patrick shares his background in music and the creative process behind Museflow, emphasizing the importance of real-time feedback and the...
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Episode 15, Great Expectations. Finding Love Without Settling
In this conversation, Jessica Danel and D. Tanner discuss the complexities of dating as a single mom, the importance of healthy expectations in relationships, and the red and green flags to look for in potential partners. They explore the significance of wisdom, discernment, and the role of faith...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Jess Saying is where real talk meets real life—with a side of sass. From parenting curveballs and small-town drama to building businesses and surviving life’s messiest moments, host Jessica Danel dives headfirst into the unfiltered truth. It’s honest, hilarious, sometimes heavy, and always human. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or shouting “YES!” in your car, you’re not alone. She’s just saying what we’re all thinking.
HOSTED BY
Jess Saying
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