Jess Saying With Jessica Danel

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 stakes.We’ll explore how fantasy can be more than just magic and monsters—it’s a mirror for human connection, redemption, and resilience. Fromjuggling motherhood and a day job to releasing her debut novel and its sequel Descent Into the Voidheart, J.F. shares how she blends epic storytelling with everyday relatability. If you've ever wondered how stories like The Hunger Games or Lord of the Rings can inspire us to face our own challenges, you’ll love this conversation.

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 midlife. Wendy emphasizes the significance of health and well-being, the power of storytelling, and the need for women to pursue their passions while maintaining financial stability. Her insights inspire listeners to embrace their journeys and seek fulfillment in their careers and lives.

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 identity. David emphasizes the significance of self-discovery, grit, and the impact of community on personal growth. The conversation also touches on the legacy we leave behind and the value of surrounding ourselves with positive influences.

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 delves into the expectations of living in different countries, the experience of motherhood abroad, and the importance of finding community through shared interests. Rosa also reflects on her writing process and the lessons she hopes readers will take away from her memoir, emphasizing the acceptance of flaws and the need for connection.

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 shares insights on the writing process, themes of identity and forgiveness, and the role of humor in storytelling. The discussion also touches on encouraging children's reading and on effective marketing strategies for authors.

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 effective communication across cultures and generations. They discuss the challenges of managing conflict, the impact of ghosting in professionalsettings, and the process of writing a book. Maria also highlights key strategies for effective communication and the significance of adapting one's style to different audiences.

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 advocating for children with disabilities, and the journey of self-publishing. T.L. emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in society, particularly for children with special needs, and how storytelling can empower them. The conversation also touches on future aspirations and the impact of Delilah's story on readers of all ages.

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 nursing profession. Jennifer emphasizes the need for empathy and kindness in healthcare, the therapeutic power of writing, and the significance of intuition in nursing practice. The discussion also touches on the challenges of burnout and the publishing process for her book, encouraging others to embrace their stories and experiences.

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 Ministries. Steve emphasizes the importance of taking small steps towards improvement and the power of community support in overcoming personal challenges. He also highlights the significance of spirituality and intentional living in achieving a fulfilling life.

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 entrepreneurship, and the significance of maintaining strong relationships both in marriage and business. Jim emphasizes the value of listening, transparency, and the lessons learned from the younger generation, particularly his grandchildren. He also touches on the impact of nonprofit work and how it shapes his perspective on success and humanity in business.

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 trauma, and the significance of play therapy in helping children process their emotions. She emphasizes the need for parents to engage in their own healing to better support their children and offers practical tools for fostering open communication within families. The conversation also touches on Stacy's journey of writing her book, which combines her personal experiences with insights gained from her years of practice as a therapist.

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 growth. Amy emphasizes the need for community support and coaching in aligning with one's potential, while also addressing women's health issues and the challenges of modern medicine. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to take charge of their health and well-being.

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. Anil introduces his happiness formula, which includes giving, gratitude, and personal growth, and offers practical advice for strengthening relationshipsand overcoming hopelessness. The discussion highlights the significance of kindness and living with purpose, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and relationships.

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 editing and design. Michele emphasizes the importance of authors maintaining control over their work and profits, while also offering insights into the publishing process, including the significance of ISBNs and potential pitfalls to avoid. The discussion highlights the advantages of self-publishing and the importance of marketing and distribution strategies for authors.

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 communication in relationships, and the life lessons learned during her ride. She emphasizes the importance of not giving up on bad days, the power of self-expression, and the courage it takes to reinvent oneself at any stage of life. The discussion is filled with insights that resonate with anyone facing challenges, particularly mothers balancing family and personal growth.

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 valuable writing advice and insights into the themes of her work, emphasizing the importance of creativity and personal expression in writing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of publishing and the excitement of connecting with readers through her unique stories.

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 mind, why “parallel parenting” often beats “co-parenting,” and what to do when your ex starts turning your kids against you (a reality facing an estimated 22 million parents in the U.S. and Canada). Lisa blends story with step-by-step tactics you can use this week—communication scripts, evidence logs, and court-ready timelines—so you can show up calm, credible, and prepared. If you or someone you love is stuck in a custody war with a relentless ex, this one’s a lifeline. This episode offers education, not legal advice.

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 former elementary educator of 20 years, and now a national advocate through his work with Joni and Friends, John Fela brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the conversation. Together, they discuss the joys and challenges of raising a child with special needs, the power of faith-based community support, and how one parent’s advocacy has grown into a national platform for change. Get ready for honesty, hope, and the kind of wisdom only lived experience can provide.

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 their wellbeing. Fiona shares her powerful story of living with a disability, as well as practical tools for shifting mindset and finding joy in everyday moments. Ifyou’ve ever needed a reminder that you’re stronger than you think, this episode is for you.

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 for financial literacy and encourages listeners to question the banking system and their own financial agreements. He also introduces his book, 'Forgive and Forget: How to Nuke Your Credit Card Debt,' which outlines his strategies for dealing with debt and advocating for oneself in the financial system.SHOW NOTES: Amazon Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1DV398C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T2J79MRKEUEU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.G90ZVPhD0xasgrjK1S6Zav-5RWRmyKGJXLtFrEC-vmXA6jUGS2pViUpmSgWO-Ej1.kCp4IluM5LPmPjlMj27czPETspNIHPNSRAuqq-BBEgw&dib_tag=se&keywords=forgive+and+forget+by+kilpatrick&qid=1738377754&sprefix=forgive+and+forget+by+kilpatrick%2Caps%2C328&sr=8-1Landing Page https://www.diy-debtrelief.com/ 1. Banks don't lend money: https://www.educatedinlaw.org/2017/03/banks-dont-take-deposits-banks-dont-lend-money/#https://youtube.com/shorts/zmkLfzjMcIU?si=wU3cO42SyVcawZmb 2. Banks must have a promissory note for the bank to grant aloan. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Modern_Money_Mechanics.pdfThe Federal Reserve says the only way a bank can make a loan is if you firstsign a promissory note to pay and the bank will enter numbers in your freechecking account. Page six, right column, second paragraph, second line. 3. Fraud undoes all contracts. https://casetext.com/case/vokes-v-arthur-murray-incThe bank says you used the card, therefore you are contracted to our terms andconditions, but Hirschman v. Hodges, etc., (1910) In this case, the FloridaSupreme Court found that a contract could be rescinded based on fraudulentmisrepresentation. 4. Banks match your deposits and all you have to do is towithdraw it and close the account; the same when the bank gave (GAVE YOU) abank-issued alleged credit card that was in fact a “Gift Card” to induce you tobe a customer, in this video he explains how to get free money from the bank: https://youtube.com/shorts/CbGSRvHgbKQ?si=9WOLMhxBMbKA6OtQ 5. Dave Ramsey on CC Debt Relief Companies that scam you. https://youtube.com/shorts/MgEJIocyefc?si=43SEAZY4gphYPxw-

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 introduces her Thrive method, which helps parents organize their approach to caring for their children. They also delve into the intricacies of IEP meetings, the emotional aspects of parenting, and the resources available for families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and knowledge in navigating the complexities of raising special needs children.

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 to their belongings. They explore practical steps for maintaining an organized home, the role of family involvement, and the challenges of consumerism. The discussion also touches on the significance of teaching children organizational skills and the potential of digital solutions in managingclutter. Lucy's journey to becoming a professional organizer is highlighted, along with resources for those seeking to improve their home organization.

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 — and became a better man for it. In this heartfelt episode of Jess Saying, we celebrate caregivers, talk about finding laughter in difficult times, and explore the life-changing lessons that come with caring for those who once cared for us.

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 redefining limitations to launching a purpose-driven business, Pauline shares how she turned “impossible” into impact. Together, they explore the mindset shifts, daily habits, and small victories that create big change—not just for herself, but for the entrepreneurs, changemakers, and mothers she empowers every day. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unseen, or unsure of your path, this conversation will remind you: your story isn’t over. You were made for more.

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 years of law enforcement experience, Rodney Carpentier shares the raw truth about seeing families in crisis, why authenticity matters more than ever, and how his daughter’s fiery personality inspires both his parenting and his writing. From cold cases to bedtime stories, this conversation is a rare look at fatherhood through a lens of resilience, humor, and heart.

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 focuses on personalgrowth and self-motivation. The conversation delves into the role of AI in education, redefining entrepreneurship, and the significance of mindfulness, exploring the intersection of AI, entrepreneurship, and the importance of personal choice in business. Sid emphasizes that success is a personal definition and encourages listeners to embrace change as a pathway to growth.

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 chaos, Craig shares real-life tools that use music, mindfulness, and simple rituals to help you survive (and maybe even enjoy) the daily grind. Whether you're dealing with meltdowns, sibling brawls, or just the never-ending loop of “Mom! Mom! MOM!”, this episode is packed with sanity-saving ideas and a lot of laughs.

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 her passion for creating educational children's books that integrate history and critical thinking, emphasizing the need for visual learning in today's educational landscape. The conversation also touches on the publishing process and the significance of providing children with quality literature that can be passed down through generations.

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 challenges individuals face when trying to leave such situations. Kate shares insights on emotional abuse, the role of self-esteem, and practical steps for seeking help. The conversation also touches on the healing power of writing and the broader implications of toxic dynamics in various aspects of life.

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, including plant medicine. The discussion delves into the themes of forgiveness, the importance of storytelling in healing, and the book's message of turning pain into purpose. Shannon emphasizes the significance of connecting with one's inner child and the role of spiritual awakening in her journey. The conversation highlights the book's potential to help both children and adults navigate their own traumas and find healing.

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 role of human creativity in music education. The discussion also touches on the integration of AI in music learning, the significance of self-expression through music, and the app's potential to enhance the learning experience for users of all ages.https://www.museflow.ai/

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 in building lasting relationships. The discussion also touches on the challenges of modern dating, including the impact of societal expectations and the importance of companionship as one ages.

In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Karen Rudolph explore the transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth through the Tranquil Solutions Mind Mosaic tool. Karen shares her journey from being a people pleaser to empowering herself and others through self-discovery techniques. They discuss the importance of understanding subconscious patterns, building confidence, and the daily practices that can lead to a mindset reset. The conversation emphasizes that transformation is a continuous journey, not a quick fix, highlighting the interconnectedness of various life areas, including health, relationships, and finances.

On May 1, 1992, Lindhurst High School became the epicenter of a tragedy that would leave a permanent mark on a generation. When a former student, Eric Houston, opened fire, four lives were lost, 11 others were wounded, and nearly 80 classmates were held hostage in aharrowing standoff. For those of us who lived through that day, the trauma wasn’t just physical—it cut deep into our hearts and minds, leaving emotional scars that still echo decades later.

In this enlightening conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Kerry Blaser, a mother, author, and shaman, who shares her powerful journey of healing and self-discovery. They explore the impact of emotional wounds on relationships, the role of energy and emotions in the healing process, and the intersection of shamanism and psychology. Kerry emphasizes the importance of transforming pain into wisdom and offers practical steps for listeners to begin their own healing journeys.

In this episode, I sit down with Henry Woodman, an entrepreneur and angel investor. We explore his journey of entrepreneurship, discussing personal stories, challenges, and the importance of adaptability in the business world. We will dive into the impact of AI on various industries, the significance of angel investing, and the risks associated with starting a business. The discussion emphasizes the need for resilience, continuous learning, and the ability to pivot when necessary. 

Ever feel like you need an escape from carpool chaos, endless laundry, and the pressure to “do it all”? In this episode, I sit down with romance novelist Beth Pellino-Dudzic to talk about why every mom deserves her guilty pleasures—and how her Perfection Saga delivers exactly that. Romance novels aren’t just about love and heat; they’re about reclaiming a piece of yourself, exploring fantasy, and stepping into a world where the heroine always wins. Beth also takes us behind the curtain of her own writing process—sharing how music, imagination, and twenty years of story-building turned into a spicy six-book series that readers can’t put down.

In this conversation, Dr. Larry Waldman, a clinical and child forensic psychologist, discusses the evolution of discipline across generations, focusing on the shift from corporal punishment to modern techniques. He emphasizes the importance of teaching responsibility through logical consequences and positive reinforcement, while also addressing the challenges parents face in today's society. The discussion highlights the need for parents to be specific in their praise and to catch their children being good, as well as the significance of understanding the impact of their children's actions and behavior.

In this enlightening conversation, Howard Berg, the world's fastest reader, shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in Brooklyn tobecoming a renowned educator. He discusses the importance of teaching effective learning techniques to families, emphasizing emotional intelligence and adapting learning methods to individual needs. Howard highlights the flaws inthe education system, particularly regarding special education, and advocates for a focus on each student's unique strengths. He also addresses the business aspect of education and the need for a positive learning environment to foster success. Whether you're studying for a test, launching a business, or helping with homework, this episode delivers practical tools that transform the way your brain works.

Many families dream of owning a home—but in today’s market, it can feel nearly impossible. In this episode of Jess Saying, we dive into the realities of homeownership in our current climate: the challenges, the roadblocks, and the creative strategies that can make it happen.I’m joined by two guests bringing fresh perspectives:✅ Nathan Turner – a mortgage note investor who offers an alternative way to carry your mortgage note and build passive income.✅ Sundee Martineau – a local real estate expert helping families navigate the housing market and make smart property decisions.We talk about why homeownership matters for long-term stability and wealth-building, what’s standing in the way of so many families, and how to take small, intentional steps toward your dream. This conversation is honest, hopeful, and packed with ideas you might not have considered before.

One near-fatal moment changed everything. After a life-altering car accident, Alan Lazaros left behind a high-powered corporate career and stepped into a purpose-driven life. In this powerful episode, we will unpack the lessons trauma can teach us, how to rebuild from rock bottom, and why transformation isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Whether you’re at a crossroads or still healing from your past, this conversation is your invitation to rewrite your story.

Are you constantly hovering over your kids, making sure they don’t fail, get hurt, or make mistakes? In this episode, we dive into the world of helicopter parenting—what it is, why we do it, and how to know if you’re doing more harm than good. Tune in as we talk about landing the helicopter, letting go of control, andhelping our kids build the skills they need to stand on their own two feet.

In this raw and relatable solo episode, Jessica pulls back the curtain on her struggles with being a helicopter parent, where love and fear collide. From micromanaging every move to learning when to land the chopper, she shares honest confessions, hard-earned lessons, and why letting go might be the bravest parenting move of all. If you've ever hovered a little too close, this one's for you.

If you've ever walked out of a doctor’s office feeling dismissed, confused, or unsure whether you did enough, this episode is for you.Jess sits down with healthcare expert and patient advocate Dana Sherwin to talkabout how to confidently and effectively advocate for your child in medical settings. With over 35 years of experience as a healthcare executive and her own experience as a chronic illness patient, Dana shares how to prepare forappointments, ask the right questions, and ensure your child is heard—even whenthe system feels overwhelming or rushed.

Many moms and families dream of building a business, but are scared of what it might cost in terms of time, sanity, and relationships. In this episode, I talk with top mindset and entrepreneurship expert Nicky Billou about how to create a business that serves your life, not the other way around. We’ll cover mindset shifts, family-friendly business strategies, and how to start taking action today, without sacrificing the things that matter most.

Welcome to the very first episode of Jess Saying with Jessica Danel. I'm an author, mama, and unapologetically somewhat "bougie" redneck girl. In this intro episode, I’m sharing the story behind my book, Bucket List from a Redneck Girl, and giving you a front-row seat to why I started this podcast. We'll talk about what you can expect each week—from my adventures in each chapter, to the raw, real issues today’s parents face. No fluff, no filters—just honest conversations, laughs, and a whole lot of heart.