Joy of the Hang™

Send us Fan MailWhat would happen if your phone rang tomorrow with news that someone you love had suddenly passed away?No will. No instructions. No plan.Just grief, confusion, and a lifetime of unanswered questions.In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of HeirLight, Jermaine Ee, to explore one of the most important—and most avoided—conversations we'll ever have: what we leave behind.After unexpectedly losing his mother, Jermaine found himself navigating the overwhelming emotional and logistical challenges that come when a loved one dies without a clear plan. That experience inspired him to create HeirLight, a platform designed to help families preserve memories, document wishes, and protect the people they love.Together, Sharon and Jermaine discuss:✔ Why most families avoid conversations about death and legacy✔ The emotional burden of dying without a will or estate plan✔ How to organize your affairs before a crisis occurs✔ What truly matters when you're remembered by others✔ The difference between inheritance and legacy✔ How preserving stories, values, and memories can become your greatest gift✔ Practical steps everyone can take today to protect their loved onesThis isn't just a conversation about estate planning.It's a conversation about love, family, memory, and making sure the people you care about aren't left carrying unnecessary burdens during the hardest moments of their lives.Whether you're 30 or 80, married or single, wealthy or not, this episode may be one of the most important hours you invest in your future—and your family's peace of mind.🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.#EstatePlanning #LegacyPlanning #WillAndTrust #FamilyLegacy #EndOfLifePlanning #JoyOfTheHang #JermaineEe #HeirLight #PersonalLegacy #ProtectYourFamilySupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailAt 21 years old, Christian "Boo" Boucousis was living his dream. After being selected for the Royal Australian Air Force's elite fighter pilot program, he was flying F/A-18 fighter jets and doing exactly what he had worked his entire life to achieve.Then everything changed.A diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis abruptly ended his military career, forcing him to walk away from the identity, purpose, and future he had spent years building. What followed was a journey through uncertainty, loss, reinvention, and ultimately, extraordinary growth.In this powerful conversation, Boo shares what happens when life doesn't go according to plan—and how some of our greatest opportunities emerge from our most devastating setbacks.Together, we explore:✈️ What it feels like to lose a lifelong dream overnight✈️ The emotional impact of having your identity stripped away✈️ How to rebuild confidence when you're starting over✈️ Why resilience is a skill anyone can learn✈️ The surprising lessons fighter pilots use to navigate uncertainty✈️ How to find purpose when life takes an unexpected turnWhether you're facing a career change, a health challenge, a divorce, a loss, or simply wondering what's next, Boo's story is a reminder that your greatest chapter may begin after the one you never wanted to end.Because sometimes the dream that falls apart is the very thing that makes room for the life you were meant to live.#JoyOfTheHang #ChristianBooBoucousis #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #LifeAfterLoss #Reinvention #MentalStrength #Leadership #Purpose #PodcastSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat would you do if a doctor told you that you had a year to live?For most people, a diagnosis of glioblastoma—the most aggressive and deadly form of brain cancer—would feel like the end of the story.For Jody Mayo, it became the beginning of a new chapter.In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Jody to discuss the moment her life changed forever, the fear and uncertainty that followed, and the mindset that carried her through one of life's greatest challenges.Together, they explore what happens when hope collides with impossible odds, how we find strength when the future feels uncertain, and why resilience is often built one day at a time.This conversation isn't just about surviving cancer. It's about choosing to live fully, finding meaning in adversity, and discovering what truly matters when everything else falls away.Whether you or someone you love has faced a serious illness—or you're simply navigating a difficult season of life—Jody's story is a powerful reminder that hope can exist even in our darkest moments.In this episode:• What it felt like to receive a glioblastoma diagnosis• The emotional toll of facing a life-threatening illness• How Jody found hope when the statistics weren't in her favor• The role of mindset, resilience, and support during recovery• What surviving cancer taught her about life, purpose, and gratitude• Why none of us should wait to live the life we wantIf this episode inspires you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a little hope today.#Glioblastoma #BrainCancerSurvivor #CancerSurvivor #Hope #Resilience #JoyOfTheHang #SharonStevenson #Inspiration #OvercomingAdversity #LifeAfterCancerSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the people shaping our youngest minds are overworked, underpaid, and unsupported?In this eye-opening episode of Joy of the Hang, host Sharon Stevenson sits down with entrepreneur, former preschool teacher, and Ratio Staffing founder Paul Buckley to unpack the growing childcare and early education crisis happening across America.After nearly 20 years working directly in preschool classrooms, Paul saw firsthand how broken the traditional staffing model had become—for teachers, schools, parents, and ultimately, children. So he built a platform designed to change it.Together, Sharon and Paul explore:The hidden challenges facing early childhood educatorsWhy teacher burnout and staffing shortages are reaching critical levelsHow traditional staffing agencies fail schools and educatorsThe importance of flexibility, transparency, and fair payWhy supporting teachers directly impacts childhood developmentThe future of preschool education and childcare in AmericaHow better systems create better classrooms—and better outcomes for kidsBefore launching Ratio Staffing, Paul spent years in biotech manufacturing leadership, earning a Six Sigma Green Belt and leading global training initiatives. Now, he’s combining operational excellence with deep compassion for education to build a more sustainable future for schools and educators alike.This conversation is powerful, timely, and deeply human—because behind every classroom is a teacher trying to make a difference.If you care about education, parenting, leadership, workforce culture, or the future of children, this episode is a must-listen.https://ratiostaffing.com/about-us🎙️ Follow Joy of the Hang on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more meaningful conversations about connection, culture, leadership, and the human experience.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat if one encouraging voice could change the trajectory of a child’s life?In this heartfelt episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with educator, author, and storyteller Bridget Gengler, whose work has impacted generations of students over more than 30 years in education.From the classroom to the pages of her children’s books, Bridget’s mission is simple but powerful: help people recognize their worth, find their voice, and believe in their own story.We talk about:What today’s children are truly struggling with emotionallyWhy confidence and kindness must be intentionally taughtThe lasting impact teachers can have on a child’s identityRediscovering yourself after divorce and major life changesHow storytelling helps both children and adults heal, grow, and connectWhy every person — no matter their age — has a story worth tellingBridget is the author of Hold Your Head Up and Walk with Grace, You Have a Story to Tell!, Rediscovering You: A Guide to Life After Divorce, and her upcoming children’s book You Can Do Anything!This conversation is uplifting, wise, and filled with reminders we all need — especially in a world where so many people feel unseen.🎙️ Follow Joy of the Hang on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.📲 Share this episode with a teacher, parent, friend, or anyone who needs to be reminded that their story matters.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens after the introduction?After the networking event ends?After you finally get a seat at the table?In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with entrepreneur and community builder Coreena Breazeale to talk about the skill nobody teaches women: how to turn connection into real opportunity.Coreena is the founder of multiple purpose-driven companies helping women lead, grow, and scale with more clarity, confidence, and intention. Through The Collective and Revive Connects, she’s helping founders move beyond surface-level networking and build relationships, systems, and strategies that actually create momentum.We talk about:Why networking alone often fails womenWhat successful women do differently once they’re “in the room”The importance of communication, follow-through, and visibilityBuilding businesses without losing yourself in the processWhy authentic connection is still one of the most powerful currencies we haveThis conversation is honest, empowering, and deeply practical for women navigating leadership, entrepreneurship, growth, and reinvention.If you’ve ever wondered why some conversations change lives while others go nowhere, this episode is for you.🎙️ Follow Joy of the Hang on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.📲 Share this episode with a woman who’s ready to stop simply showing up — and start truly stepping into her power.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the pain you’ve been told to “live with” isn’t inevitable at all?In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Bruce Phelps—creator of the Stretch n’ Release Technique, founder of The Muscle Repair Shop, and author of Stretch n’ Release—to challenge everything we think we know about chronic pain, aging, and healing.With a background in Aging Sciences and over two decades of hands-on experience, Bruce has helped thousands of people move beyond pain without relying on prescriptions, injections, or surgery. But what makes his story even more compelling is that his breakthrough didn’t begin in a lab—it began in his own body. While carrying an extra 135 pounds and battling severe back pain, Bruce set out to solve a problem most people are told to accept.Together, Sharon and Bruce explore:Why pain is often misunderstood—and misdiagnosedThe difference between managing pain and actually fixing itWhat your body is trying to tell you (and why most people miss it)How the Stretch n’ Release Technique works in real lifeWhat it really takes to reclaim mobility, strength, and confidence at any ageThis conversation isn’t just about physical pain—it’s about reclaiming ownership of your body, challenging limiting beliefs, and realizing that what you’ve accepted as “normal” may not be normal at all.If you’ve ever been told, “that’s just part of getting older,” this episode may change everything.https://a.co/d/0gS8fdASSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailSome stories don’t just inspire you—they change you.In this deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Krystal Geist opens up about her journey through trauma, survival, and ultimately, transformation. As the founder of Her Warrior Heart, she’s on a mission to help women rediscover their strength and reclaim their lives.Together, we explore what it means to heal emotionally, rebuild self-worth, and find connection after pain. This is a conversation about resilience, courage, and the kind of strength that doesn’t just survive—but rises.If you’re on a healing journey or walking alongside someone who is, this episode is for you.https://krystalgeist.comhttps://shadowwarriorsproject.org/the-founders/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it truly mean to lead from the front—not just in combat, but in life?In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with retired Brigadier General Remo Butler, a trailblazer, leader, and the first Black man to achieve the rank of Brigadier General in his division. With decades of military service and leadership at the highest levels, General Butler shares the principles that shaped his journey—and the personal battles he faced after the uniform came off.We explore his newly released book, Lead from the Front, and the deeper meaning behind leadership, resilience, and responsibility. General Butler also opens up about the unseen cost of service, including his struggle with PTSD after retirement—and the pivotal role his wife played in helping him recognize it and begin the path to healing.This is a conversation about courage, identity, and what it takes to lead when no one is watching.In this episode, you’ll hear:What “leading from the front” really looks like beyond the battlefieldThe responsibility that comes with breaking barriers and making historyThe transition from military leadership to civilian lifeThe hidden toll of service—and the power of asking for helpLessons from Lead from the Front that apply to all of ushttps://a.co/d/07fKuWMZSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat’s the secret to living a long life—and more importantly, a meaningful one?At 101 years old, Olga Genersich has lived through over a century of change, challenge, love, and growth. In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, she shares her perspective on longevity, healthy aging, life lessons, and what truly matters in the end.This isn’t about quick fixes or longevity hacks. It’s about the kind of wisdom that only comes from living—fully, deeply, and over time. Olga reflects on love, loss, resilience, relationships, and the small everyday choices that shape a life well-lived.Her words are simple, honest, and unforgettable.In this episode, we explore:-How to live to 100 (and beyond)-Longevity secrets from a 101-year-old woman-Life lessons you can apply at any age-The truth about happiness, resilience, and aging-What really matters at the end of life-How to live a meaningful, connected lifeIf you’ve ever wondered how to live longer—or how to live better—this conversation will stay with you.🎧 Follow Joy of the Hang on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube💛 Share this episode with someone you love—because the best conversations are the ones we pass onSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailListener Note:This episode contains sensitive content, including discussion of child trafficking and abuse. Please listen with care, and take breaks if needed. If this topic is personal for you, you are not alone—support resources are included below.In this deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Chasity Vannatter, a survivor of child sex trafficking who was exploited by her own mother for seven years.Chasity shares her story with courage and honesty—offering a rare and powerful look into the realities of trafficking, the long road to healing, and what it takes to reclaim your life after unimaginable trauma.Now working with Manatee Children’s Services, Chasity is turning her pain into purpose—advocating for vulnerable children and helping others find their voice.This is not an easy conversation—but it is an important one.If you’ve ever wondered how trafficking happens, how survivors rebuild, or how we can better protect children, this episode will stay with you long after it ends.“If this conversation moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Awareness creates change—and silence keeps these stories hidden.”If you or someone you know may be experiencing abuse or trafficking, confidential help is available:National Human Trafficking HotlineCall: 1-888-373-7888Text: 233733 (Text “HELP” or “INFO”)Chat: humantraffickinghotline.orgChildhelp National Child Abuse HotlineCall or Text: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)Live chat available at childhelphotline.orgIf you are in immediate danger, please call 911.You deserve safety, support, and to be heard.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn one of the most powerful conversations on Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Mark Geist—one of the security operators portrayed in 13 Hours—and his wife, Krystal, to share the real story behind the 2012 Benghazi attack.This is not a retelling of headlines. This is a firsthand account from someone who lived it.Mark takes us inside the chaos of that night—the decisions, the danger, and the moments that would change his life forever. But what makes this conversation truly unforgettable is what comes after. Together, Mark and Krystal open up about the long road of recovery, the invisible wounds of trauma, and the strength it takes to rebuild a life—and a marriage—after war.This episode offers a rare and deeply human perspective on service, sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring power of love in the face of unimaginable circumstances.Whether you know the story of Benghazi or are hearing it for the first time, this is a conversation that will stay with you.https://shadowwarriorsproject.org/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat if everything we’ve been told about education… is wrong?In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with actress, author, and education advocate Sam Sorbo for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about parenting, homeschooling, and the systems shaping our children’s futures.From questioning traditional schooling to redefining what it means to truly educate, Sam shares why she believes parents—not institutions—should lead the learning journey. Together, we explore independence, critical thinking, and the courage to challenge the status quo.This conversation isn’t about easy answers—it’s about asking better questions.https://sorbostudios.com/sam-sorboSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang™, Sharon sits down with author, content creator, and military spouse Kendall Mariah for a deeply honest conversation about what happens when life doesn’t unfold the way you expected.From navigating ADHD and fertility struggles to the realities of motherhood, marriage, and identity, Kendall shares what she calls “soul friction” — those seasons where everything feels uncertain, uncomfortable, and unresolved… yet quietly transformative.Together, they explore the pressure to have it all figured out, the emotional weight of changing roles, and the courage it takes to keep showing up when there are more questions than answers.This is not a conversation about having it all together.It’s about learning how to live — and even grow — in the middle of the unknown.If you’ve ever felt stretched between who you were and who you’re becoming, this episode will stay with you.https://kendallmariah.com/about-1Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailToday, I turn 60. And instead of slowing down, I’m stepping fully into who I was always meant to be.In this special solo episode of Joy of the Hang, I’m sharing the life lessons that didn’t just shape me — they transformed me. The moments that broke me open, the experiences that rebuilt me, and the connections that reminded me what it truly means to belong.This isn’t just a reflection on age — it’s a celebration of growth, resilience, and the power of choosing joy, again and again.I talk about what I’ve learned about relationships, reinvention, courage, and why it’s never too late to become more of yourself. Because the truth is, the most meaningful parts of life aren’t behind us — they’re built in the moments we choose to show up, reach out, and connect.If you’ve ever felt like you’re still becoming… you are.And maybe the best years of your life aren’t ahead or behind — they’re happening right now.Let’s hang. 💛Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat turns an event into an experience people talk about for years?In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Gillian Marto and Debra Hull, the creative minds behind Events of a Lifetime Productions, an award-winning event production and branding company known for turning ordinary gatherings into unforgettable experiences.Gillian, named Atlanta’s Event Industry “Rising Star,” is known for bold, imaginative concepts like the Branded Live Hand Wall and the now-famous Champagne Vending Machine—interactive moments that surprise and delight guests.Debra brings decades of experience as a branding strategist and event producer, blending creative storytelling with strategic precision to deliver high-impact corporate, charity, and destination events.Together, we dive into:• What separates a good event from a truly unforgettable experience• The psychology behind creating connection through live events• How branding and storytelling shape the guest experience• The wildest and most creative event ideas they’ve produced• Why meaningful moments matter more than ever in a digital worldBecause when people gather with intention, something powerful happens.And that’s where the real magic of the hang begins.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailSuccess on paper doesn’t always feel like peace in your body.In this episode, Emilee Tucker shares how corporate stagnation and a painful breakup forced her into a deeper journey of self-discovery — one that went beyond productivity hacks and leadership books.Emilee believes the soul is the missing piece in modern self-development. Through energetics, breathwork, Human Design, and deep self-awareness, she now helps others reconnect with who they truly are — not who they were conditioned to be.We explore:• Why burnout is often misalignment• The danger of chasing information instead of integration• What it means to “decondition” yourself• How authenticity transforms leadership• Why alignment creates peace and powerIf you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or exhausted from trying to “fix” yourself, this conversation will feel like a reset.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Kortney Farhat for an honest and energizing conversation about what it really takes to build, lead, and evolve in today’s fast-changing world.Kortney shares her journey—lessons learned, pivotal risks taken, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate challenges and step confidently into new levels of growth. We talk about leadership under pressure, trusting your instincts, overcoming self-doubt, and how to stay aligned while scaling your ambitions.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, executive, or someone in the middle of your own reinvention, this episode will leave you thinking bigger and moving bolder.https://www.kortneymurray.com/about-meSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat if turning 50 wasn’t the beginning of the end — but the start of your most powerful chapter?In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Lorraine Ladish, CEO and co-founder of Viva Fifty!, a dynamic bilingual community celebrating life at 50 and beyond.Originally from Madrid and now based in Sarasota, Lorraine shares her bold reinvention story — from losing her print journalism career during the 2008 recession to becoming a leading midlife content creator and voice for women’s empowerment.We talk about:• Reinventing yourself after 50• Navigating identity shifts in midlife• Entrepreneurship in the digital age• Cultural belonging as a Spanish-American woman• Confidence, longevity, and why it’s never too late to start againAt 62, Lorraine believes she still has so much to build — and this conversation will inspire you to rethink what’s possible in your next chapter.Because we are born to bond. Built to belong. At every age.Follow Joy of the Hang for more conversations about connection, reinvention, and living fully.https://www.vivafifty.com/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this honest and heartfelt episode, Sharon sits down with interior designer and new mom Christiana Engert to talk about the life shift no one can fully prepare you for: your first baby.We go beyond the cute photos and nursery décor to unpack the real changes that happen after becoming parents. Christiana opens up about what surprised her most — from the emotional and physical transformation of her body to the unexpected mental load of new motherhood. We talk about how your relationship with your spouse evolves, how roles shift, and how connection can feel both deeper and more strained at the same time.This episode is about identity, partnership, exhaustion, love, and learning to communicate in a season where everything feels new. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this part?” — this conversation is for you.Whether you’re expecting, newly postpartum, or years into parenting, you’ll walk away feeling less alone and more understood.Because sometimes the most important hang… is the one that helps you find each other again. 💛Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Christina Ordonez for an honest conversation about the emotional, physical, and relational challenges of pregnancy and IVF treatments.Christina shares what it’s really like to walk through uncertainty, medical interventions, hope, disappointment, and resilience—often quietly, and often without enough support. We talk about the parts of fertility journeys that are rarely discussed: the isolation, the pressure to stay positive, and the deep need for connection during one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.This episode is for anyone who has struggled to conceive, supported someone who has, or felt unseen during a season that was supposed to be joyful. It’s a reminder that hope can coexist with grief—and that no one should have to walk this road alone.🎧 A conversation about courage, compassion, and the power of being held—emotionally and socially—when the journey gets hard.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Francesca Graham, an advocate working with the Walk the Talk Foundation, an organization dedicated to defending whistleblowers in service who risk their careers—and often their well-being—by telling the truth.Francesca shares what it really means to “walk the talk” when integrity collides with institutions, and why protecting those who speak up is not just a legal issue, but a moral one. Together, they explore the personal cost of courage, the isolation whistleblowers often face, and the urgent need for systems that support honesty rather than punish it.This is a conversation about bravery, accountability, and the human toll of doing the right thing when it’s hardest. It’s not always comfortable—but it’s deeply important.If you’ve ever wondered what happens to people who refuse to stay silent, this episode will stay with you.https://walkthetalkfoundation.org/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you remove alcohol from the founder lifestyle—and replace it with clarity, community, and purpose? In today’s episode, Sharon sits down with Andrew Lasisse, founder of Sober Founders, to talk about sobriety in entrepreneurship, building identity without drinking culture, and why going alcohol-free can become a true competitive advantage. We dive into business growth, mental health, confidence, and the power of connection when you choose a new way to “hang.” If you’re sober-curious, in recovery, or building something big—this one will hit home.https://www.soberfounders.org/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailThis episode is a gripping, heart-stirring journey you’ll never forget.At just 14 years old, Nini Ta fled South Vietnam as one of the Vietnamese Boat People—risking everything for a chance at freedom. Her escape was perilous, her time in a refugee camp was uncertain, and her arrival in the United States marked only the beginning of an entirely new fight for survival.But Nini didn’t just rebuild her life… She rose.Today, she’s an acclaimed dentist who runs a thriving practice, a testament to what determination, resilience, and faith can create even out of the darkest circumstances.In our conversation, Nini opens up about:The night she escaped Vietnam and what she carried with herThe brutal reality of life as a young refugeeThe moments that nearly broke her — and the ones that carried her forwardHow she built a successful career in dentistry from the ground upThe legacy she hopes her story will inspire in othersThis is a story of survival, courage, grit, and the unshakeable spirit of a young girl who refused to give up.Don’t miss this one. It stays with you.https://www.siestavillagedentistry.com/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailSeason 2 opens with a remarkable story of bold faith and unstoppable purpose.In this episode, I sit down with Zach Kyriazis—a 20-year-old evangelist and missionary who speaks ten languages and spends his life spreading the message of Christ across Ukraine and developing nations. Zach found Jesus at just fourteen years old, and from that moment on, his path was set: go where hope is needed most and meet people exactly where they are.Together, we talk about:The moment Zach encountered Christ and how it reshaped everythingWhat mission work really looks like in places facing war, poverty, and fearHow a young man carries spiritual courage into some of the hardest circumstancesThe unexpected ways God shows up in the fieldWhat Zach believes the world needs most right nowIt’s a powerful, grounded, and eye-opening conversation with a young man whose wisdom far exceeds his years. A beautiful reminder that purpose doesn’t wait for permission—and that one faithful “yes” can ripple across the world.A meaningful start to a new season. Let’s dive in.http://www.modernday.org/profile/zachary-kyriazis/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailAt just 12 years old, Haley Stark survived a spinal stroke that left her partially paralyzed and fighting for her life. Today, she is a powerful example of resilience, disability empowerment, and overcoming adversity.In this moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Haley joins her mom, Sharon Stevenson, to share how surviving a childhood stroke reshaped her identity—and her future. After losing the use of her dominant right hand, Haley retrained her brain, adapted to life with a disability, and refused to let limitations define her.A Harvard University graduate, Haley earned a dual degree in Psychology and Theater, blending mental health insight with creative expression. Along the way, she discovered the transformative power of improv and stand-up comedy, using humor as a tool for healing, confidence, and connection.This episode explores:Life after a spinal strokeNavigating disability and identityThe psychology of resilience and adaptabilityHow comedy, improv, and laughter support mental healthRedefining success after traumaTurning survival into purposeFrom hospital rooms to Harvard classrooms to comedy stages, Haley’s journey is a reminder that joy, belonging, and confidence can be rebuilt—one brave choice at a time.✨ A hopeful conversation for stroke survivors, people living with disabilities, caregivers, parents, and anyone learning how to rise after life-altering challenges.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailReady to reset your health in the new year? Personal trainer Jim Foubister joins Sharon with practical, sustainable tips for building strength, boosting metabolism, and creating fitness habits that last longer than January.Jim shares simple strategies for improving mobility, staying motivated, and designing routines that fit your real life—not the idealized one on Instagram. His approach is grounded, encouraging, and perfect for anyone wanting to feel stronger, lighter, and more energized in 2025.And in true Joy of the Hang spirit, Jim helps us reconnect with the “H” in HANG: Healthy Habits as a form of self-connection. Because when we honor our bodies with small, consistent choices, we create a deeper hang with ourselves—one built on respect, discipline, and joy.If you’re searching for expert insight on New Year fitness goals, strength training, fat loss, and healthy routines, this episode is your fresh start.A Joyful Act for today: choose one Healthy Habit and let it anchor your week.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Mylitta Butler, author of Slim Down, Level Up, to talk about her extraordinary 161-pound weight loss journey — and how she’s kept it off.Mylitta opens up about the mindset shifts, the daily rituals, the emotional healing, and the deep “why” that fueled her transformation. This isn’t a story about dieting. It’s a story about reclaiming your life, your health, and your joy.If you need hope, motivation, or a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story, this conversation is for you.https://a.co/d/bDX7EsTSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Jessica Rueger — a guide to visionary leaders who are ready to create a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside. Jessica’s work is all about divine embodiment, energetic alignment, and conscious creation—helping people design a life of freedom, fulfillment, and success that money alone can’t buy.Together, we explore what it really means to live an exquisite life: one built on intention, connection, and the courage to listen to your soul’s calling. Jessica shares how to shift out of survival mode, tune into higher wisdom, and step into the version of yourself that’s been waiting for you all along.If you’re craving more meaning, more alignment, and a life that feels deeply yours, this episode is your permission slip to rise.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, host Sharon Stevenson travels—figuratively and emotionally—to Italy with mother-and-son duo Mary Ann and Mimmo Cricchio, the heart behind Da Mimmo Tours. From their legendary Baltimore restaurant to luxury culinary adventures along the Amalfi Coast, the Cricchios have built a life centered on food, family, and connection. Discover how they transformed hospitality into heritage, and why they believe joy is best served with good wine, good company, and a view of the Mediterranean.https://www.damimmotours.com/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailBeth Lawlor has built her career at the highest levels of finance—leading thousands across the country as President of U.S. Bank Wealth Management. But in this candid conversation, Beth opens up about more than markets and money. She shares how she leads with purpose, creates connection in a competitive industry, and defines true wealth beyond the balance sheet.We talk about resilience, leadership lessons from her 25-year career spanning UBS, Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo, and how she stays grounded in a fast-moving financial world. Named one of Crain’s New York Business’ Notable Women on Wall Street, Beth brings both wisdom and warmth to the table.💡 Joyful Act: Take five minutes today to reach out to someone who’s helped you grow—financially, personally, or professionally. Gratitude is a form of wealth too.🎙️ Welcome to Joy of the Hang, where we explore the transformative power of connection. Follow us on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you hang out with your favorite podcasts—and share this episode with a friend who’s building their version of wealth and joy.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon welcomes Ukrainian entrepreneur-philanthropist Yana Matviychuk — founder of the creative agency ARENA CS, the Women’s Aid International charity fund, and a driving force for business, volunteerism and humanitarian impact in wartime Ukraine. We dive into how Yana started a company with just $300, scaled it into multi-million-dollar success, pivoted into radical philanthropy during conflict, and is now helping reshape Ukraine’s economy, infrastructure and civil society. If you’re curious about business as service, leading with heart under pressure, and creating legacy that crosses borders—this conversation is a masterclass in the power of purpose.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this Joy of the Hang episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Robin Perry Braun—PhD in Integrative Medicine, MS in Psychology, and ordained minister—whose life’s work is helping people release the inner blocks that keep them from peace, joy, and purpose. We get into the “how”: energy and the nervous system, belief patterns, trauma imprints, and practical tools to support real-world change. Dr. Braun shares insights from 30+ years of practice and her books (Living Like a Son, Thrive, A Believer’s Guide to the Law of Attraction, 30 Days to Peace and Joy, Journey Through the Storm), plus what her certified modality looks like in action. If you’re curious about integrative, faith-forward, science-informed approaches to feeling better—and creating a life that actually fits—this conversation is your starting line.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailEver wondered why your body feels different lately—why you might be low on energy, struggling with night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, or just feel like you’re not you anymore? In this episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Victoria Andarcia, board-certified in internal medicine with advanced training in integrative and functional medicine, to explore what it really means to reclaim vitality, rebalance your hormones, and feel good in your body again.Dr. Andarcia practices at Reveal Vitality in downtown Sarasota, where she helps women navigate pivotal life stages—fertility, perimenopause, menopause—by focusing on root-cause health instead of just masking symptoms. This means digging into hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and hormone balancing, nutrition and lifestyle medicine, emotional wellness, sleep, gut health, and even the subtle ways your hormones impact your confidence, libido, and sense of joy.You’ll hear them talk about:The meaning and value of hormone therapy, bioidentical hormones, HRT vs non-HRT options—why timing, delivery method, and individual risk matter. Canadian Cancer Society+4Mayo Clinic+4Patient Info+4How hormonal changes show up (hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, low libido, weight gain, fatigue) and how rebalancing estrogen, progesterone (and sometimes testosterone) can help you feel like you again.Why integrative and functional medicine matter—because true healing isn’t just about pills, it’s about lifestyle, mindset, emotional intelligence, movement, and whole-body vitality.Practical tools you can start this week to boost your hormonal wellness: sleep hacks, stress reduction, food as medicine, supporting your gut and liver—because hormones don’t just live in a pill bottle.The mindset shift: moving from “I’m just surviving this body” to “I’m thriving in this body”—with confidence, humor, presence, and purpose.Whether you’re navigating fertility challenges, perimenopause, full menopause, or simply feeling out of sync with your body and spirit—this episode gives you a roadmap for hormone balance, renewed energy, and sustainable vitality. Tune in, take notes, and give yourself permission to feel good again.To learn more contact: https://revealvitality.comSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn a world obsessed with hustle, Katie Close teaches a different path—one that honors the soul behind the strategy. With over two decades of experience helping entrepreneurs and executives transform their businesses from the inside out, she joins Sharon to talk about the evolution of leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how to stay grounded in your humanity while scaling your dreams.https://katieclose.com/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailHospice work isn’t about dying—it’s about living with grace. In this powerful episode, Sharon talks with Carla Armstrong, Director of Philanthropy at Gulfside Hospice, about what it truly means to show up for others at the most tender moments of life. They discuss generosity, grief, and the surprising joy that emerges when we stop fearing the end and start embracing connection.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and deeply personal episode, Sharon sits down with Connie Going, a nationally recognized advocate, adoption expert, and tireless voice for children in the foster care system.With more than 40 years in social work—and as an adoptive mom herself—Connie has witnessed the heartbreak, beauty, and resilience that come with finding “forever homes.” From the trenches of child welfare to national media spotlights like The View, Oprah’s O Magazine, and CBS On the Road with Steve Hartman, Connie’s mission has remained the same: to make sure every child knows the power of unconditional love and belonging.Together, Sharon and Connie talk about the realities of trauma, the courage it takes to parent through pain, and the radical act of choosing family—again and again.It’s a raw, hopeful conversation about healing, humanity, and what it really means to hang on for each other.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon welcomes Elle McComb and Michelle Burnett of RX Weight Loss Clinic for a conversation that blends science, healing, and hope. Together, they explore today’s most innovative treatments—like EmSculpt for muscle toning, EmSella for core and pelvic health, and cutting-edge peptides—alongside practical approaches to weight loss and wellness.But this episode goes deeper than medical solutions. Elle and Michelle also open up about divorce, resilience, and the healing process—reminding us that true transformation is about more than the body. It’s about rebuilding confidence, restoring strength, and finding joy on the other side of life’s challenges.Whether you’re curious about breakthrough health treatments or looking for inspiration to move forward after loss, this conversation offers both knowledge and encouragement.https://rxweightlosssarasota.comSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Sean Croker and Tanner Kim of League of Angels—the world’s only undefeated baseball team. But this isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about transforming lives. League of Angels is dedicated to giving people with special needs the chance to experience the joy of playing baseball, fulfilling lifelong dreams that might not otherwise be possible. Together, we explore the power of sports to build belonging, create community, and remind us that joy is often found in the simplest, most human moments—stepping up to the plate, hearing the crowd cheer, and feeling part of a team.https://www.theleagueofangels.org/Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, executive coach and Luxury Executive Wellness founder Linda Mullins shares how a 2007 burnout and an immersive fitness retreat transformed her life—and inspired her to build personalized well-being retreats, executive offsites, and board retreats that actually move the needle. We dig into root-cause coaching, trauma-informed leadership, and practical ways high performers can release what no longer serves them, regulate stress, and rebuild energy without sacrificing impact. If you’re leading a team (or leading yourself) through overwhelm, this one’s your blueprint for sustainable success—mind, body, and mission.For more information about Linda please visit her website at:  https://www.luxuryexecutivewellness.com/In honor of suicide prevention month, if you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. SuicidePreventionMonth reminds us that talking about suicide isn’t harmful — silence is. One honest conversation can be a turning point in someone’s life. Throughout this month — and beyond — we invite you to share the messages below or create your own about Suicide Prevention Month through the power of courageous community conversations.If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.You can also chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, host Sharon Stevenson welcomes Ryan O’Malley—wine sales rep, storyteller, and fellow podcaster. Ryan believes wine is more than what’s in the glass—it’s a catalyst for connection, laughter, and lasting memories. From building a career in wine sales to writing his book The Girls and the Grapevine and hosting Hot Sex and Cold Champagne, Ryan shares how every pour opens the door to deeper conversations and meaningful relationships.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailTo celebrate 50 episodes of Joy of the Hang, I’m joined by my best friend, Maria Richardson, for a conversation filled with laughter, reflection, and wisdom. Together we dive into meditation, mindfulness, and manifesting joy — and how these practices have carried us through both the messes and the milestones of life. This heartfelt episode is a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the power of connection.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailAfter a 30-year career dedicated to caring for seniors, Toni Sexton has embraced her passion for fashion as the creator of VintageLuxe. Specializing in vintage fashion, modern styling, and statement pieces, Toni blends timeless classics with fresh, contemporary trends to design looks that stand out. Whether you’re searching for a unique vintage piece, a head-turning modern outfit, or the perfect fashion statement accessory, Toni helps clients create their personal WOW moment. With VintageLuxe, she proves that true style is about confidence, individuality, and finding the perfect balance between vintage elegance and modern flair.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Melissa Howard, a passionate Guardian ad Litem from Sarasota, to explore the guts and grace of the foster care system. Melissa breaks down what it means to be a voice for at-risk youth, the realities of foster parenting, and how compassionate community action can change lives. Whether you’ve considered becoming a GAL, fostering, or simply want to support a vulnerable child—you’ll leave this conversation enlightened, empowered, and ready to make a difference.Sarasota County Resources1. Become a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)The 12th Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program—serving Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties—recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who advocate in court and beyond for abused, neglected, or abandoned children. Volunteers receive training on advocacy, child development, cultural sensitivity, and more, without needing legal credentials nationalcasagal.org+7VolunteerMatch+7childrensguardianfund.org+7.To volunteer contact:  guardianadlitem.org.2. Become a Foster ParentHeart Gallery of Sarasota helps connect prospective foster families with children in need. To foster, you must be 21+, complete a 21‑hour training class, pass background checks, have stable housing and income, and appropriate sleeping space for the child Heart Gallery of Sarasota | Sarasota, FL+2Florida Foster Family+2.Support for foster (and adoptive) families comes through Bridge A Life, which offers practical help such as meals, childcare for date nights, home repair assistance, training programs, and community events—all designed to lighten the load and strengthen healing homes bridgealife.com.3. Extra Support for Children & VolunteersThe Children’s Guardian Fund supports the GAL program and dependent youth across the 12th Circuit. They help ensure basic needs and “normalcy” for kids—like prom clothes, camp, tutoring—as well as development funds for older youth aging out of care childrensguardianfund.org.All Star Children’s Foundation runs the local Campus of Hope and Healing—providing trauma‑informed foster parent training, mental health services, enrichment programs, and a deeply supportive community for caregivers and kids alike All Star Children's Foundation+1.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Joe Gallagher Jr., author of Bars to Jars. Joe opens up about his battle with addiction, the consequences that landed him behind bars, and the faith and redemption that helped him rebuild his life.It’s a raw and hopeful conversation about rock-bottom moments, second chances, and the power of community when willpower isn’t enough. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself or love someone who has, Joe’s story will leave you encouraged, challenged, and reminded that redemption is always possible.If you or someone you know needs help, call SAMHSA’s 24/7 helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailAt just 32 years old, Ethan Crosson—a former collegiate athlete in peak physical shape—suffered a massive heart attack that left him flatlining in the back of an ambulance. No warning signs. No family history. Just a 100% blockage that changed his life in an instant.In this powerful and poignant episode of Joy of the Hang, Ethan shares his story of survival, the guardian angel who helped save him, and how the experience reshaped his understanding of health, purpose, and what really matters. We dive into the silent risks men often overlook, the importance of early detection, and the role that stress, genetics, and lifestyle can play—even when you "do everything right."This conversation is a wake-up call and a lifeline.Resources for Heart Health Support:American Heart Association – Know Your NumbersCDC: Heart Attack Symptoms in MenMen’s Health NetworkFind a Cardiologist Near YouIf you or someone you love has ever thought, "It won't happen to me," this episode is a must-listen.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailShe stole hearts as Maddie Ashby on The Young and the Restless—but Lexie Stevenson’s story is just getting started. On this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with the actress, singer, and fierce advocate to talk about her incredible journey from small-town Maine to Hollywood and now Nashville.Lexie opens up about what it was like growing up biracial in a rural community, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and how she’s using her voice to make a difference as Chairwoman of the Endometriosis Association, a cause close to her heart. And now, she's chasing a new dream: country music star. Her debut single, Cowboy Pillows, is out now—and trust us, you’re going to want to listen.🎵 Listen to Cowboy Pillows here: https://open.spotify.com/track/5RQCSwA3curdSFGWYz2w6A?si=9d4fa991a59946efThis episode is all about resilience, reinvention, and the power of using your platform to help others. Come hang with us—you’ll leave inspired.Click here for more information about endometriosis:https://endometriosisassn.orgSupport the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, we sit down with a guest who—though choosing to remain anonymous—has made it their mission to shine a light on one of the darkest issues facing our communities: human trafficking.Together, we unpack the myths, misconceptions, and hidden realities of trafficking today. From how traffickers operate to the vulnerable populations most at risk, this conversation reveals just how close this issue hits to home—including right here in Florida.Our guest shares the signs to watch for, how everyday people can help, and the urgent need for awareness, education, and stronger systems of support.This episode is a call to consciousness—and a reminder that change starts with paying attention.📌 Episode Notes & ResourcesIf you or someone you know is being trafficked—or you suspect something isn't right—please don’t stay silent. Help is available:National Human Trafficking Hotline (U.S.)📞 1-888-373-7888📱 Text “BEFREE” to 233733🌐 humantraffickinghotline.orgFlorida Human Trafficking Hotline📞 1-855-FLA-SAFE (1-855-352-7233)🌐 youcanstopht.comSelah Freedom (Sarasota-based nonprofit working to end sex trafficking)🌐 selahfreedom.comPolaris Project (Leading national anti-trafficking nonprofit)🌐 polarisproject.orgLet’s stay aware. Let’s stay involved. And let’s never stop fighting for the voiceless.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailFor those who believe every gathering should be an experience, Adrianne Mellen delivers. As the visionary luxury event planner in NYC and founder of Tailored By Propeller, she curates high-end events, bespoke experiences, and unforgettable celebrations where elegance meets innovation. With a background in precision planning and an eye for luxury event design, Adrianne transforms concepts into flawless, one-of-a-kind occasions.In this episode, she also invites listeners to experience one of the most iconic events of the year—New York Fashion Week, taking place September 11–16, 2025. With over 20 shows, including world-renowned designers like Alice + Olivia, Bronx & Banco, PatBo, Sergio Hudson, and more, NYFW is the ultimate blend of fashion and culture. To secure your spot at the runway, contact Tailored By Propeller at https://tailoredbypropeller.com/Use the code "Hang10" to receive 10% your favorite show!  And tell them Sharon sent you!Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Joy of the Hang, we sit down with Sarasota’s own Vanessa Silvana, founder of Loch Nessa Makeup Creations, to talk all things glam, glow, and growing into your beauty at every age. Whether you're in your 20s or 70s, Vanessa believes makeup should enhance—not hide—who you are. She shares her favorite tips for timeless beauty, how to adapt your makeup routine as you age, and why confidence is the ultimate cosmetic. From everyday elegance to full glam moments, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to slay your next look.Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang. If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.