Love and Compassion with Gissele

In this episode, Gissele talks to Maria Belanic about navigating the loss of her son and her father.  We discuss how to have compassion for ourselves and others during difficult moments.  We also chat about the possibility that joy and grief can co-exist in the same space.  If you are struggling with grief, check this episode out. 

On this very special episode, I speak to Megan Fuccarelli about why it is so difficult to be authentically ourselves in this world.  We talk about how to speak our truths even when faced with difficult people and how to address micro aggressions with compassion and patience.  Additionally, we talk about how to raise more authentic children.  

Listen to this powerful episode as Gissele chats with Celestin Gariyunka, ED of Prison Fellowship Rwanda who are actively working on creating long lasting peace by bringing together victims and perpetrators of the Rwandan Genocide.  Celestin shares his secret to creating true harmony and how housing enemies together brings greater unity. 

On this amazing conversation, Caroline Jose and I talk about the roots of her people pleasing persona and why she believed that kindness did not pay off.  On this episode she talks about all the adversity she has faced including illness, financial instability, divorce, death and loss of identity.  She discusses what keeps her going and how generosity and focusing on giving hope to those in the Autism community give her hope of a brighter tomorrow. 

For this episode I speak to Barbara With, who channels Einstein and many other key figures.  Her work focuses on compassion and how to resolve conflict by using her conflict revolution strategy.  We discuss the importance of compassion, and why it is so needed in today's world.  We also speak about why it is so difficult to practice it. 

On this powerful episode, I speak to Adam Guzman-Puell about how to unconditionally love ourselves, others and even our enemies. We talk about how we have to consciously choose love every day and some of the struggles I have faced living up to those ideals.  

What does it take to become truly happy, joyful and at peace? we have heard that happiness is an inside job, but how often do we depend on external circumstances to to determine how happy we are.  On this episode I chat with Karen Olson, who despite having an accident where she lost her ability to walk, she is one of the happiest people you will meet.  She shares why she has always cared about others and how despite her inability to walk, she lives a full life. 

In this conversation I speak to the CEO of SIGN, Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours, which focuses on caring for all members of their community, especially the most vulnerable. We talk about SIGN's humble beginnings, and the impact of their services on their community.  In particular, how free mental health has enabled men who haven't previously access mental health supports to get what they need.  After this conversation, you will be left wondering why we didn't start these services sooner! 

What happens when love challenges the prejudices of an entire family, and what can that teach us about the world we live in today? In this powerful conversation, Annie Waxman shares her experience of facing intense anti-Black racism from her family in the 1960s after falling in love with a Black man, and reflects on the pain, courage, and forgiveness that shaped her journey. Together, we explore what happens when societies choose to "let things lie," why confronting difficult truths matters, and whether we have truly moved forward on race relations, or whether history still has lessons we have yet to learn.

In this amazing conversation with Alex Kopelman, we chat about how authenticity can help us be more accepting of others. We talk about how we have been programmed to conform rather than be authentically ourselves, and how belonging and authenticity can complement one another, and how learning to regulate ourselves during difficult moments can help us achieve true inner feelings of safety.  

Would you be able to forgive your child's murderer after a school shooting? would you be able to have compassion for the person who took your son away? In this powerful conversation, I speak to Scarlett Lewis, founder of the Choose Love Movement, whose son Jesse was killed at the Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting. Scarlett talks about why hatred doesn't work, why forgiveness is so essential for healing, and why caring for her son's killer and choosing love, is the only way we may finally be able to address school shootings.  

Imagine you adopt two children from foster care, only to find out they come with extraordinary mental health challenges.  One of your children has even been diagnosed with sociopathy and is trying to kill one of her sisters...what would you do? How far does a mother's love go and does it have the power to transform and help heal their child?

Have you lost trust in yourself? are you in the process of becoming but feel lost? Then this episode is for you.  Natasha Ramlall works with high functioning women who have lost their old identity but have not yet embodied their new ideal.  In this episode we talk about how to handle an identity crisis with compassion, acceptance, and patience. 

What power does surrender have in helping us be more authentically ourselves? In this conversation, I chat with Daryl Dittmer about what helped him address his addictions, the power of vulnerability, the need for boys to feel all their feelings, and how boundaries can help us be more compassionate towards ourselves and others. 

What if death was not the end? Would we then be able to live more fully and create a world that is more compassionate? I chat with Angel Morgan about connecting to the other side, how to release conflict even with those who have passed over and how forgiveness can help us heal our lives. 

Can you find joy, even when challenges are occurring? In this episode, I chat with Tony Stewart who wrote about his journey of losing his wife to cancer, how they found moments of joy in the chaos, and the aftermath of finding a new relationship.  

With everything that is going on with ICE deportations, in this episode we talk to Andy Semotiuk on the importance of compassion in immigration. He clarifies the different types of people who immigrate into countries, talks about his own past with immigration, offers advice regarding if you are stopped by ICE and reminds us of the importance of kindness in helping us create a better future for all. 

What happens when someone the world has written off is faced with death? Sentenced at 16, Fernando Murillo spent decades in prison, until he began caring for dying inmates in a hospice unit, ensuring no one faced their final moments alone.  In this powerful episode, we ask: Do prisoners deserve a humane death?  Fernando shares what he witnessed inside an inhumane system, how compassion can emerge in the darkest places, and how his journey transformed his understanding of true freedom.

In this beautiful conversation with Aline, we talk about grieving the loss of our pets, we challenge the many misconceptions about love and loss, and discuss the gifts that loss can bring to our lives.  

In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Dr. Jitmoud shares the unimaginable journey of forgiving the man who took his son’s life. Rooted in his faith in Allah, he reflects on the true meaning of forgiveness not as weakness, but as a profound act of strength, surrender, and spiritual clarity. Together, we explore what it really takes to move beyond anger and separation, and to see even those who harm us as part of our shared humanity. This is a conversation about grief, faith in God (Allah), destiny and the radical possibility of love in the face of the unthinkable.

Can a relationship survive separation and come back stronger? In this intimate conversation, a couple shares their journey apart and the unexpected path that led them back together. Along the way, we explore compassionate parenting, women’s rights, travel, and how we can reimagine aging, relationships, and love itself.

Can we create a more compassionate civilization from our current state of fear and division? we sure can, and Robertson Work can teach us how.  In this podcast episode we talk about how to address the fear of the other, what the essential pillars of a compassionate civilization are, and the role the feminine energy plays in helping us create a more loving and kinder world. 

Teen anxiety and disconnection are rising but what if the real solution isn’t more confidence, but more self compassion?  In this powerful conversation, Karen Bluth shares research backed approaches to help teens build emotional resilience and treat themselves with kindness when it matters most.

In this heartfelt conversation with Iona Sky, we explore LGBTQ+ family estrangement, the pain of separation, and what it takes to heal and reconnect. Together we discuss forgiveness, releasing internalized homophobia, and how individuals and organizations can create more inclusive spaces where belonging and reconciliation become possible. A powerful episode about love, healing, and finding a way back to one another.

In this transformative episode, I speak with spiritual teacher Rashi Nayar about shadow work, spiritual awakening, emotional healing, self-love, and our relationship with God. We explore how embracing our shadow selves leads to deeper compassion, authenticity, and inner peace and how learning to love those we perceive as hurtful can radically transform our lives. This inspiring conversation is perfect for anyone interested in spirituality, mindfulness, and learning to love themselves. 

What if educational leadership began with self-worth and compassion? In this powerful conversation, Gissele and Deidre Harris explore compassionate leadership in education and why educator wellbeing is essential for student success. They discuss how self-worth, social-emotional learning, and empathy shape healthier school cultures and more inclusive learning environments. This episode is a must-listen for educators, school leaders, parents, and anyone invested in transforming the education system.

In this heartfelt conversation, Rebecca Schaper shares her experiences communicating with animals who have crossed over, offering comfort to those grieving and a gentle reminder that death may not be the end. We also speak openly about her relationship with her brother who lives with schizophrenia, exploring stigma, love, and the deep importance of compassion. This episode invites reflection on grief, mental health, and the unseen bonds that continue beyond physical life.

In this powerful conversation, I speak with Larry Rosen, Host of The Enemies Project about what it truly takes to bring people together in a divided world. We explore why empathy is essential, how to stop seeing one another as enemies, and how listening can transform conflict into connection.

In this deeply moving episode, Barry Adkins shares how he transformed unimaginable grief into a powerful mission of love and awareness after losing his son to binge drinking. Barry walked more than 1,400 miles to start conversations about alcohol misuse, peer pressure, and the silent risks young people face.

In this episode, author Sabrina Trobak joins Gissele to explore the hidden ways the belief of “not feeling good enough” shows up in our lives. Together, they discuss how to recognize the subtle signs of low self-worth and the importance of acknowledging and feeling difficult emotions. This gentle conversation invites listeners to slow down, get curious, and bring compassion to the parts of themselves that struggle with not being enough.

In this powerful and compassionate conversation, Krysti Beckett and I explore women’s health, sustainable weight loss, pelvic health, and the emotional journey of learning to be kind to your body. From pelvic floor wellness and hormonal balance to body image, metabolism, and self-compassion, this episode invites women to move away from shame and restriction and toward healing, strength, and self-trust. You’ll discover how women’s pelvic health impacts weight, confidence, and daily life, why traditional weight loss culture often fails women, and how practicing self-compassion can be the most powerful health strategy of all. Whether you’re navigating postpartum recovery, perimenopause, menopause, or simply seeking a healthier relationship with your body, this conversation offers hope, science-based insight, and practical tools for real, lasting change. Keywords: women’s health, pelvic floor health, sustainable weight loss, body image, hormone balance, self-compassion, holistic wellness, trauma-informed health, perimenopause, menopause, postpartum care.

Can compassion be trained? In this inspiring episode of Love and Compassion with Gissele, Dr. Olga Klimecki, neuroscientist and compassion researcher joins us to explore the science of compassion and what helps people genuinely care for others, even those they find difficult to like.

Discover how play can transform your relationship in this enlightening conversation with Peter Anderson, “The Playful Couple.” In Choosing Play in Relationships: From Conflict to Connection, we explore practical strategies to turn tension into joy, strengthen intimacy, and reconnect with your partner in meaningful ways. Whether you’re navigating conflict, seeking more fun in your marriage, or curious about building deeper connection, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring stories to help you bring playfulness, love, and laughter back into your relationship.

Part 2 of my chat with Britton and Carolee and they share their story of trying different types of school systems from Walford and Montesori to Unschooling to determine the path of greatest soul development for their children. We talk about why schools don't focus on skill development such as love and compassion in this episode.

Listen to PART 1 of this podcast episode with Britton and Carolee as they share their struggles in dealing with infidelity with compassion for themselves and their partners. They share how their childhood and upbringing lead them to having issues within their relationship and how a "BIG" decision changed their entire lives and the lives of their children.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Robi Damelin and Layla Alsheikh, two courageous mothers from Israel and Palestine and members of the Parent Circle Friends, who share their journeys of grief, reconciliation, and hope. Through their unimaginable loss, they have chosen love over hatred, showing us what it truly takes to build a more united and peaceful world.  **This episode has been nominated for Best Non-Fiction Podcast award, Yorkton Film Festival, 2026**

Are you struggling at work? Do you wish that workplaces could be more forgiving or more humanizing? Listen to this powerful and moving chat with Dr. Jenn Griggs about ensuring people's dignity, the importance of authenticity, and the power of forgiveness at work.  

In this powerful episode, I sit down with author Vivien Kalvaria to discuss her moving memoir, My Nameis Not Rifka focusing on a remarkable journey of family, trauma, reconciliation and forgiveness.  In this episode we discuss the holocaust, the banality of evil, and the long road to forgiving those who are estranged. 

Tired of red vs. blue? Meet Scott Grace, the Spiritual Dr. Seuss, as we explore how to heal division with humor, heart, and his new book Beyond Red and Blue. Politics, peace, and poetry, this episode has it all, one rhyme at a time!

In this deeply moving episode, Sonny Von Cleveland shares his extraordinary journey of survival and transformation, from enduring childhood sexual abuse and rape in prison to spending 19 months in solitary confinement. But this is not a story about staying broken, it's a story about choosing love over hate. Sonny opens up about the radical act of forgiveness, the power of compassion, and what it truly takes to create a more loving world. We explore healing from trauma, confronting greed and ego, and finding the courage to transform pain into purpose. His message is clear: no matter what we’ve lived through, we all have the power to love. If you're searching for hope, healing, or a reason to believe in the human spirit again, then this episode is for you.

In this inspiring episode, Gissele chats with Dr. Bruno Roque Cignacco, international business consultant, TEDx speaker, university professor, and author of The Art of Compassionate Business to explore how compassion can transform workplaces. With over 30 years of experience guiding global organizations, Bruno shares why leading with heart isn't a soft sell, it’s a strategic growth engine!

How do the spaces we live in reflect the peace we seek within? In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by award-winning interior designer Kim Depole of Depole Designs to explore the power of mindful design. Kim shares how her time with Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh and the teachings of Plum Village transformed her approach to space—shifting from external aesthetics to designing from the inside out. We dive into how intentional design can support mental well-being, emotional clarity, and even spiritual growth. Whether you're looking to create a calming home, a sacred work space, or simply live more consciously, this episode offers practical wisdom and soul-centered guidance. 🎙️ Topics we explore: How mindful design fosters peace and presence Thich Nhat Hanh’s influence on creative living Turning everyday environments into sacred spaces Designing for energy, flow, and emotional harmony Creating beauty that reflects inner balance Tune in to discover how to make your space not just beautiful—but deeply healing. Keywords: mindful interior design, Kim Depole, Thich Nhat Hanh, conscious living, sacred space, home wellness, emotional design, Plum Village, spiritual spaces, wellbeing, zen interiors, compassionate design

Can we truly communicate with animals? In this enlightening episode of Love and Compassion with Gissele, world-renowned animal communicator Penelope Smith joins us to explore the world of animal telepathy—a heart-based, intuitive connection that transcends language. Penelope shares how animal communication can foster deep emotional healing, strengthen the human-animal bond, and awaken our innate capacity for compassion. You’ll hear inspiring stories, practical insights, and a powerful message: animals are not just companions—they are teachers, healers, and conscious beings. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode will shift your perspective on what’s possible between species. Keywords: animal telepathy, animal communication, Penelope Smith, animal communicator, telepathic communication, compassion, healing, intuitive connection, love and compassion podcast

hat does it take to bring real compassion into the child welfare system? In this heartfelt episode, we talk with Peter Mutabazi—author, advocate, and single Black foster and adoptive father—about his extraordinary journey from surviving life on the streets of Uganda to fostering over 36 children in the U.S. With raw honesty and deep wisdom, Peter shares the joys and challenges of being a foster parent, the unique barriers faced by Black single men in the system, and why love, safety, and belonging must be at the core of how we care for vulnerable children. This is more than a story—it's a call to action to reimagine the child welfare system with compassion at its center. 🎧 Tune in for inspiration, insight, and a powerful reminder that one person can truly make a difference. #FosterCare #ChildWelfare #PeterMutabazi #NowIAmKnown #CompassionateParenting #Adoption #SocialJustice #Podcast

In today’s evolving workplace, emotional intelligence isn’t optional—it’s essential. In this powerful episode, leadership coach and business strategist Jeff Ma joins us to talk about how love, compassion, and vulnerability are transforming company culture and improving team performance. We explore how to lead with empathy, create a psychologically safe environment, and have honest, difficult conversations at work. You’ll learn how forgiveness, trust, and authenticity can increase employee engagement, reduce burnout, and fuel long-term success. Whether you're a CEO, manager, or team member, this conversation offers actionable insights for building a more human, high-performing workplace.

In this powerful episode, Sean Hemeon opens up about growing up Mormon, coming out as gay, battling addiction, and learning to forgive himself. We explore religion, shame, manifesting, and what it really means to live authentically. A must-listen for anyone on a healing journey.

Do you want to know about the connection between love and money? Do you desire to understand what your passions are and how to live authentically? then listen to this conversation with Ghary D. Won around his experiences with homelessness, how a mindset shift helped him overcome that challenge and how his relationship with abundance changed after a conversation he had with money. 

We are living in a time of great division.  Where rights are being eliminated, and people are struggling more than ever finding common ground. Additionally, people seem to be struggling more internally. They are feeling more burnt out.  Many spiritual traditions claim that love is the answer.  But how? Listen to my chat with Scott Stabile, on the power of love.  We will discuss why choosing love is always the better choice and the connection between self-love and love for others.  A must listen if you are interested in understanding how love can help us heal. 

Do you believe it's possible to raise children without punishment? what would happen if you decided to not use time outs, spanking, or other methods of controlling your children, could they be raised to be good people and have good lives? Join me as I chat with Dr. Rebecca Woulfe, author of the book, The Gift of a Punishment-Free Childhood as she shares her story of raising children without punishment. Listen to her wisdom as she shares the outcome of her experiment in going punishment free. Do not miss this episode you are a parent who wants to do something different.

Are you craving true intimacy? do you have difficulties expressing your needs for intimacy, connection, touch and sex? Then tune into this episode of the love and compassion podcast with Gissele. Today, we talk to Lyuba Venable who is a sex coach focusing on the needs of men and women for greater connection, unity, communication, and love.