Observeday

If you’ve ever wondered how stories can literally save a life, you’ll want to listen to this episode. I sit down with Alicia Rush, who went from the depths of medical trauma and losing hope to becoming an author who uplifts others facing their own chaos. This conversation isn’t just about reading books; it’s about using the act of storytelling — even simple journaling — to heal, rebuild, and find meaning when everything falls apart.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Alicia RushWebsite: https://www.thegoodkindofcancer.comChapters00:00 Why Stories Matter in Survival01:04 Facing the Darkest Moments02:48 Fighting for Life After Trauma03:51 Advocating and Finding Hope05:15 The Cancer Diagnosis and Timeline07:00 Medical Crises and Family History09:25 Guilt, Forgiveness, and Moving On10:31 Missteps in Recovery and Second Chances12:08 Living on Borrowed Time13:17 Finding Purpose After Devastation14:17 Journaling and Writing to Heal16:05 From Healing to Helping Others16:27 Life After Cancer — The Untold Struggles17:28 Rediscovering Purpose in Dark Times19:03 How to Connect With Alicia20:03 Closing Thoughts and Newsletter Invitation

Ever wonder why those classic weight loss tips never seem to stick? In this episode, I sit down with exercise physiologist and longtime gym owner, P J Glassey, for a refreshingly honest look at why “trying harder” might not be the answer. We look past the usual talk about diet and exercise and dive into the real role your brain plays in lasting fitness and fat loss. You’ll hear why so many fitness routines are stuck in the past, why motivation and habits are a mental game, and how focusing on the right kind of change leads to long-term results. By listening, you’ll get a clear idea of:Why changing your brain is just as important as changing your body (and how simple tactics can help)Why traditional weight goals might miss the point—and what actually matters for lasting healthConnect With P J GlasseyWebsite: https://xgym.comIf Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 What World Obesity Day Gets Wrong01:10 Top 5 Steps to Stay Young02:18 Rethinking Old-School Fitness03:29 The Origin of Sets and Reps04:57 Training for Real Life, Not Just “Jacked”05:42 The Stories That Matter Most08:11 Why the Brain Shapes Habits11:29 How Real Change Happens13:41 Linking Brain Health and Metabolism17:09 Why Weight Isn’t the Whole Story20:26 Rethinking the Scale and Metrics24:09 Where to Find P J Glassey24:52 Wrapping Up and What’s Next

Looking for a deeper connection with reading beyond just finishing another book? In this episode, I sit down with Swami Nityananda, a spiritual teacher and longtime literature professor, to explore how books can shape who we are inside — not just what we know. You’ll hear real stories about how texts like “The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass” help us find inner freedom and empathy, and how the act of reading itself can train your attention in a world that constantly distracts us.Whether you love books, teach, create, or are simply looking to be more present, this episode will help you rethink how stories and silence can work together.Connect With Swami NityanandaWebsite: https://awakeyogameditation.orgEmail: [email protected] Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Welcoming Swami Nityananda00:51 How Books Shape Attention and Empathy01:14 A Life-Changing Book: Frederick Douglass04:15 Early Reading and Worldview05:59 Discovering Frederick Douglass as a Professor06:53 From Academia to Spiritual Leadership07:39 Living Truth vs. Knowing Concepts09:32 Turning Teachings Into Transformation10:39 Reading, Silence, and Daily Practice12:02 What We Miss About Books and Growth13:33 Learning Face-to-Face From Teachers14:14 Community, Screens, and Human Connection15:13 How Deep Reading Trains Attention16:42 Stories Building Empathy and Accountability19:05 Why We Keep Returning to Stories21:27 The One Question for World Book Day22:39 Sharing, Gifting, and Little Libraries23:14 Swami Nityananda’s Meditation Center23:57 Closing and Where to Connect

Curious about what makes YA sci-fi stories really stick with readers, and how creators find meaning (and an audience) for their work? In today’s episode, I chat with bestselling author and creative director Christian Hurst about blending heartfelt themes with bold storytelling. We talk about crafting genuine characters, why it’s okay to share flawed protagonists, and how feedback can shape a series.If you’re a writer or creator, you’ll hear how Christian moves from “idea” to “published book”—including the critical role of just putting your work out there and treating it like a product. You’ll also learn how his background in branding informs both his stories and his approach to audience connection.Tune in for an honest look at handling creative doubt, chasing validation (the real kind), and the surprising lessons Christian learned about readers’ reactions to imperfection in fiction. Whether you’re a sci-fi fan or a creator looking for practical, down-to-earth wisdom, there’s something here for you.Connect With Christian HurstWebsite: https://www.churstpublishing.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churstpublishingIf Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:23 Meet Christian Hurst00:47 The Lily Starling Series Explained01:40 The Spark Behind the Story02:53 Exploring Identity and Themes03:33 Starting With Characters03:56 Making Fictional Worlds Real04:49 Branding Background and Storytelling06:00 Symbols, Imagery, and Meaning07:29 Readers’ Surprising Reactions09:47 Making Work Meaningful and Marketable12:35 Writing Challenges and Process14:21 Legacy and Humanism18:00 Handling Creative Doubt20:23 What’s Next for Christian Hurst21:53 Where to Find Christian’s Books22:50 Outro and How to Connect

Looking to share science in a way that engages people — not puts them to sleep? This episode puts you in conversation with Jason Dietrich, who specializes in turning technical STEM topics into stories everyone can connect with. We dive into Global Media and Information Literacy Week, but this isn’t just theory; you’ll hear hands-on tips you can use right away.If you’re a podcaster, creator, or communicator wanting to reach more people with your message, you’ll walk away with practical ways to make your content clear and relatable, especially when tackling complex topics. Curious about how to catch your audience’s attention in the first few critical seconds? Jason gives real, field-tested strategies — both for audio and visual content. We also talk about how to build inclusion for neurodiverse audiences, offering a refreshing perspective for anyone looking to reach listeners of all backgrounds.You’ll learn:Why less is more when writing show or social posts and how to keep people from scrolling by.How to adapt your message for different audiences so your ideas really land, whether you’re talking to students, scientists, or the public.Connect With Jason DietrichLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/166110/admin/dashboard/⁠Website: ⁠https://www.ssaihq.com⁠YouTube Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ScienceSystemsandApplicationsI⁠ If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: ⁠https://observeday.com/join⁠Chapters00:00 What Global Media Literacy Means00:35 Introducing Jason Dietrich’s Story01:20 Communication Specialist in STEM02:32 Sharing Science Through Podcasts03:30 Engaging Social Media Strategies04:17 Measuring Outreach Success05:55 STEM’s Impact on Critical Thinking08:17 Hyperlexia: Turning Challenge Into Strength10:53 Navigating School With Hyperlexia13:16 Making STEM Accessible for Everyone14:40 Effective Social Media & Thumbnails16:05 Growing an Audience Over Time17:21 Avoiding Common Communication Mistakes18:01 Knowing and Reaching Your Audience19:38 Visuals and Video Make STEM Clear21:44 Hands-On Learning and Inclusion22:05 The 4 C’s for Neurodiverse Audiences26:24 Lightning Round: Favorites and Insights28:08 Highlight: Launching a STEM Podcast29:20 Where to Find Jason & SSAI30:38 Wrapping Up and Next Steps

If you care about making every day meaningful, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Roger Canaff, a former prosecutor and advocate, to help us all understand the real-world effects of technology and trauma on justice for survivors of violence — especially women and vulnerable communities. You’ll learn why technology like generative AI is much more than just an online trend (and how it’s creating new risks for exploitation), and get clarity on why certain groups go unheard by our justice system. If you’re a podcaster, creator, or someone who tells important stories, you’ll pick up thoughtful advice on how to report on sensitive topics with care, so you’re helping—not harming—communities. Plus, Roger shares practical steps any of us can take to support survivors and build a safer, more understanding world. If you're curious about how to respond when someone shares a difficult story or want to avoid harmful myths in your reporting, this conversation gives you tools that matter.Connect With Roger CanaffWebsite: https://rogercanaff.comIf Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Today’s Theme00:23 Roger Canaff’s Background01:04 Getting Started in Special Victims Work02:35 Evolving Views of Justice04:10 The Meaning of This International Observance05:18 AI as a New Tool for Exploitation06:40 The Danger of AI-Generated Images08:35 How Far Behind Is the Law?10:04 Systemic Failures and Unheard Voices11:37 Barriers Facing Marginalized Victims13:27 How to Report on Sexual Violence Responsibly15:31 Reasons for Hope in Ending Violence17:20 What a Survivor-Centered Future Looks Like19:03 How to Connect With Roger Canaff19:41 Closing and Next Steps

If you've ever faced hardship and wondered how to find meaning in the middle of it, you’ll want to listen to this episode. I sit down with Dean Weitenhagen, a two-time acute myeloid leukemia survivor and caregiver who’s walked through life’s toughest stretches — from his wife’s stroke to his own health crisis. Dean opens up about what these challenges taught him about gratitude, purpose, and what really matters. We dive into those big questions: Why are we here? What does real success look like on the other side of a life-altering diagnosis? You’ll pick up two key takeaways: how to use gratitude as a daily practice, even during hard times, and how to rethink your own definition of success and purpose. Plus, you’ll hear a unique perspective on staying true to your values while facing medical uncertainty, and how relationships and simply being kind can shape your journey. Tune in for real talk on living thankfully — no matter what you’re up against.Connect With Dean WeitenhagenWebsite: https://www.deanweitenhagen.com/If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 What Does Success Mean?02:00 Rethinking Purpose in Hard Times04:16 Making Sense of Adversity06:08 Faith, Values, and Big Questions07:28 Facing a Life-Changing Diagnosis09:22 Miracles and Medical Surprises11:08 Life After a Stem Cell Transplant13:27 Lessons From a Second Chance15:18 How Illness Clarified Ambitions17:25 Dreams for the Next Chapter19:06 Redefining Living and Success20:37 How to Connect With Dean21:35 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

On this episode, we’re celebrating World Children’s Day by talking about one of the most important milestones in a child’s life: learning to communicate. I sat down with pediatric speech-language pathologist Jessie Kensey, who works daily with parents and toddlers to help them find their voices, even before the first word. If you’ve ever wondered about early intervention, how parents can tell the difference between “late talkers” and bigger concerns, or how something as everyday as a diaper change can actually spark your child’s language skills, this episode is for you. We also dig into some of the biggest myths parents hear about speech and language development, and how baby sign language can reduce frustration and strengthen your bond. Tune in to learn easy, actionable ways to turn everyday routines into powerful communication moments—and how to keep learning fun instead of feeling like pressure.A few takeaways for creators or parents:Which small changes at home can lead to big communication breakthroughs in kidsWhy “wait and see” isn’t always the best advice for language developmentSimple strategies to spark language, even before your child speaksConnect With Jessie KenseyWebsite: https://www.simplyspeechtherapy.org/Instagram: https://instagram.com/simplyspeechIf Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:28 Why Jessie Focuses on Early Voice01:40 Meaningful Progress Starts at Home03:00 The Power of Early Intervention04:04 Jessie's Aha Moment With a Family05:28 Myths About Speech Development07:08 “Wait and See” vs. Taking Action08:59 Understanding Late Talking10:05 Support Before Speech — What It Looks Like11:32 Practical Tips: Signs and Language Modeling12:37 Tantrums, Frustration, and Language Delay14:12 Baby Sign Language and Connection16:00 Everyday Routines as Language Moments17:21 Feeding Transitions and Communication19:22 Easing Parental Anxiety About “Behind”21:00 Making Communication Fun, Not Pressure23:29 One Thing To Start Today24:09 Lightning Round: Family and Favorites26:32 Where to Find Jessie Online27:34 Wrap-up and Farewell

Curious about how to make your days feel productive without giving in to endless hustle? In this episode, I sit down with productivity coach Emily Guerra, who shares fresh, practical advice for creators and entrepreneurs feeling stuck in “busy but not productive” mode. If you ever wonder why your to-do list is getting longer while your goals aren’t moving forward, you’ll want to tune in.We discuss the real difference between being busy and being productive — and why progress, not just task completion, matters most. Listen for tips on breaking down big goals so you can focus on actionable steps, not just lofty outcomes. Emily also shares her favorite simple (and free!) tools for daily productivity, including why staying flexible and owning your process is key.You’ll learn:How to set meaningful goals with the right “inputs” and action steps, not just vague outcomes.The importance of a workday shutdown ritual to actually create work-life balance.Ways to use timers, apps, and small routines to boost focus and avoid overwhelm.Connect With Emily GuerraWebsite: https://theproductivityflow.comIf Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Introduction & About Emily01:11 Rethinking Hustle Culture02:44 Busy vs. Productive04:36 To-Do List Overload05:30 Focusing on Top Priorities06:39 Measuring Real Progress08:14 Action Plans and Flexibility09:17 Goals: Inputs vs. Outputs10:45 Working Backwards from Your Goals12:33 Favorite Productivity Tools15:27 The Low-Tech Timer Trick16:59 Productivity Tools Swap19:09 Underrated Google Calendar Features20:26 Rapid Fire: Habits & Myths22:46 Emily’s Planning Preferences22:55 Where to Find Emily23:17 Wrap Up & Outro

If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to “live the dream,” this episode is for you. I sit down with author, poet, and spiritual director Jessica L. Morris, who didn’t just stumble into her dream — she spent years taking one small step at a time to get there. We talk about the winding road that led her from fundraising and event planning to becoming a writer, including the challenges she faced, what woke her up to her purpose, and how she built her daily trust in the journey. Podcasters and creators will pick up two big takeaways: first, embracing the process — even when it doesn’t make sense — can lead to peace and surprising progress in your own creative work; second, the idea that “just enough light for the next step” is sometimes all you need, both in recovery and in making something meaningful. Tune in for thoughtful tips on staying present, trusting your path, and celebrating each day as it comes.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Jessica L MorrisWebsite: https://jessicalmorris.comPublisher: https://www.westbowpress.comAmazon: Search for “Sonbathing Jessica L Morris” on AmazonChapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction00:25 Jessica’s Journey to Writing01:36 Living the Dream vs. Dreaming02:34 Taking the Leap of Faith03:23 Support and Sacrifice in Family04:09 Early Love for Poetry05:19 Waking Up to Purpose06:01 The Process of Awakening07:00 Patience, Trust, and Progress08:02 Struggles with Addiction and Recovery10:32 Rising to a Calling11:23 Sunshine, Awakening, and Her Book12:14 Meaning of “Sonbathing”13:06 How the Book Helps Readers14:24 Finding the Book’s Title15:17 Staying Focused on the “Son”16:06 Writing, Blogging, and Book Creation16:57 What Jessica Hopes Readers Gain18:25 Trusting the Next Step19:02 Recovery Is One Day at a Time20:18 Success Is Showing Up20:48 Advice for Those Still Dreaming21:21 Accepting Where You Are22:55 Letting Go of Certainty24:13 Final Words and Living the Dream24:57 Trusting the Future to God25:29 Where to Find Jessica’s Book26:11 Closing and Thank You

Curious about what really holds us back from progress? In this episode, I sit down with leadership expert Charlie Shepherd for a conversation that might shift the way you think about drama, energy, and the everyday choices that shape our lives and work. We dig into the drama triangle versus the leadership triangle, and you’ll hear Charlie’s surprising take on why leadership isn’t just a title, but a daily behavior anyone can choose.If you're a podcaster or creator, you'll get practical ideas about how energy impacts conversations—whether you’re lifting people up or draining the room. Plus, you’ll learn how to spot when you (or your guests) are slipping into default, reactive patterns and what it means to move toward greater presence and intention.We also chat about Charlie’s newest projects, like Human Presence Institute and his upcoming children’s book, and even share a few behind-the-scenes podcasting stories. If you want a fresh take on personal connection and building something meaningful—both on and off the mic—this episode is for you.Connect With Charlie ShepherdWebsite: https://www.sheppardpartners.com/If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Reflecting on Barriers to Progress02:00 Introducing Charlie Shepherd03:07 Drama Triangle vs Leadership Triangle06:32 Moving from Drama to Leadership08:39 Examples of Draining and Raising Energy09:43 Handling Powerlessness and Vision13:05 The Connection of Podcasting16:26 Human Presence Institute Origins18:58 Creating Transformative Workshops21:02 Charlie’s Upcoming Children’s Book23:22 Why Write for Children24:20 Path of Light Blessing and Music26:12 The Power of Presence in Conversation27:54 Why I Started Podcasting30:28 The Art of Spotlighting Guests32:06 Questions, Silence, and Deep Listening32:24 Worst Listener in the World?33:24 Staying Present with Others34:03 Conversations that Become a Show35:33 The Skill Behind Modeling Genius37:02 Guest Excitement and Show Potential38:48 Where to Find Charlie’s Work40:03 Wrapping Up and Episode Close

If you’re looking for ways children’s books can spark real conversations about courage, resilience, and hope, you’ll want to hear this episode. I chat with Jenny Milton, the author of Gail and the Red Kite of Courage. Her touching story, based on her own childhood and her brother’s battle with cancer, shows us how families can find joy and healing through simple, creative play — like flying a kite.You’ll discover the power of using true stories to help kids talk about tough feelings, and how to turn difficult life experiences into uplifting lessons for both children and adults. If you’re a podcaster or creator, tune in to learn:How sharing vulnerable, real-life experiences can deeply connect with your audience.Practical ways to use children’s books as tools for sparking conversations about emotions, both at home and in classrooms.The importance of blending fun, hands-on activities with storytelling — and why that makes an impact kids remember.Connect With Jenny MiltonWebsite: https://galeandtheredkite.comAmazon: (Search for "Jenny Milton" or "Gail and the Red Kite of Courage" as mentioned in the episode)If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinChapters00:00 Welcome & Episode Intro00:24 Meet Jenny Milton00:55 Why Courage Matters in Stories01:40 National Reading New Book Month02:37 Addressing Tough Topics With Kids03:30 Jenny’s True Family Story04:53 How a Kite Changed Everything07:10 Finding Healing in the Wind09:13 Linking the Book to Charity10:33 Disability, Triumph, and Family12:01 Books as Tools for Emotional Growth13:14 Changing Kids’ Feelings About Wind14:52 Fun Kite Activities for Kids15:49 Gail’s Next Adventure Revealed16:28 Wind Warriors & Finding Your Tribe19:15 Lightning Round: Favorites & Fun Facts20:49 A Brother’s Inspiring Journey22:08 Next Book & Big Dreams23:06 Jenny’s Dream: Animated Series23:47 Where to Find Jenny’s Books24:24 Website and How to Connect24:34 Closing Thoughts & Goodbyes

If you want a real, unfiltered look at life beyond statistics during National Suicide Prevention Month, you’ll get that in this episode. Adrienne Caldwell joins me to talk about surviving trauma, addiction, mental illness, and choosing hope in the darkest moments. We talk honestly about warning signs that someone may be struggling, and why shame and stigma keep too many people silent. You’ll hear how practicing gratitude can truly shift your mindset—even when things seem hopeless. Adrienne shares eye-opening advice on how we can help break the stigma by making space for these tough conversations. You’ll also hear simple ways to offer real support to someone in crisis and signs to look for if a friend or loved one is hurting. Don’t miss the part about practical daily rituals that keep Adrienne grounded, and why she says her spirit remains “unbroken,” no matter what she’s faced. There’s so much wisdom here for anyone who wants to support others or needs encouragement themselves.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Adrienne CaldwellWebsite: https://unbrokencaldwell.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbrokencaldwellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/unbrokencaldwellChapters00:00 Honoring National Suicide Prevention Month00:39 Introducing Adrienne’s Story01:06 Life Outside the Lines02:04 Surviving and Growing Through Trauma03:03 The Suicide Attempt That Changed Everything04:08 Root Causes and Pain05:29 Finding a Reason to Survive06:48 Recognizing Warning Signs07:49 Tackling Shame and Stigma09:47 Hope, Healing, and Daily Tools11:18 How Motherhood Changed Everything12:16 Gratitude as a Practice13:05 Direct Words for Those Struggling14:52 How Allies and Friends Can Help16:28 Lightning Round: Rituals and Hope17:47 What “Unbroken” Means18:37 Where to Find Adrienne Online19:55 Wrap Up and Final Thoughts

If you love the companionship of animals or want to find more meaning in your relationships with pets, this episode is for you. I sit down with Julie Marty-Pearson, host of The Story of My Pet, to explore real stories about the ways pets — especially rescue animals — shape our lives and inspire everyday advocacy. You’ll get to hear how Golden Retriever Day is more than just pictures on social media and discover easy ways you can help support animal welfare even if you don’t have a pet yourself.By tuning in, you’ll learn:How firsthand stories around rescue, fostering, and adoption help break down barriers and inspire more people to get involved.Simple, practical actions you can take to support animal shelters and pet rescues (often with things you already have at home).How storytelling about pets can build unexpected community and even support mental health.Whether you’re reflecting on pets you’ve loved or thinking about bringing a new friend into your life, you’ll walk away with ideas for spreading a little more kindness to animals — and yourself.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Julie Marty-PearsonWebsite: https://thestoryofmypetpodcast.comYouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@storyofmypetpodcastChapters00:00 Welcome & Today’s Observance00:23 Introducing Julie Marty-Pearson00:57 Early memories of Goldie02:25 How pets shape our identity03:35 Goldie’s influence on animal advocacy05:13 Julie’s pets today06:12 Julie’s unique pet household06:26 Why no dogs right now06:51 Staying connected to dogs07:34 Pet storytelling as advocacy08:46 The power of rescue stories09:36 Real-life fostering stories11:29 Pets, mental health, and community12:38 Lessons across life stages14:05 Why Golden Retriever Day matters15:00 Celebrating beyond cute photos16:26 Remembering the good17:14 Where to find Julie’s work17:42 Closing thoughts and newsletter

If you're looking for ways to honor Cancer Awareness Observance, today's episode will help you see survivorship from a whole new angle. I sit down with Sheila Butler, a longtime cancer survivor and brand-building expert, to talk about what transformation really means when life doesn’t go as planned. We'll dig into how Sheila's experience has shaped her approach to work, purpose, and the idea of leaving a legacy — lessons any podcaster or creator can use.Listen in to learn how facing a major challenge can shift your perspective about what really matters, both personally and professionally. Plus, you'll pick up practical ideas on supporting friends or loved ones going through tough times — without saying “let me know how I can help.” If you want to rethink how you approach your brand’s legacy, or just want a deeper understanding of what life after a diagnosis looks like, this conversation has something for you.Takeaways How life-altering events can help you clarify your brand promise and the legacy you want to leave.Practical, heartfelt ways to support others in your community beyond just offering help.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Sheila ButlerWebsite: https://butlermg.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilabutlerChapters00:00 Why Cancer Changed Everything01:17 Shifting Perspective on What Matters02:21 Identity and Living Beyond Diagnosis04:05 The Loneliness of Cancer06:13 Keeping Illness Private at Work08:05 Carrying Lessons Into Work Life10:13 Finding Your Brand Promise11:51 Leaving a Lasting Mark12:33 How to Really Support Others13:56 Honest Conversations About Cancer15:26 Processing Change and Transformation19:02 Ambition After the Hardest Days20:41 How to Connect With Sheila21:12 Episode Close and Newsletter Reminder

If you want to understand what real inclusion looks like beyond surface-level awareness days, this episode is for you. I sit down with Tracy King, a learning strategist and late-diagnosed autistic entrepreneur who’s building neuro-inclusive systems at work and at home—often before even knowing why her approach was different. Tracy shares honest stories about navigating late diagnosis and why many organizations unintentionally exclude neurodivergent people just by sticking to "the way things have always been done."We dig into how neurodivergence shows up in everyday life, what dynamic disability really means, and how you can create spaces where everyone does their best work—not just those who fit a typical mold.What you will learn:The most common (and damaging) myths about autistic productivity—and what to do differentlyPractical ways to audit your systems and spot invisible exclusionsHow to become a safer and more supportive collaborator for neurodivergent peersWhether this topic is brand new or close to home, I know you’ll leave with new ways to think about teamwork, leadership, and why inclusion benefits everyone.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Tracy KingWebsite: https://www.inspired-ed.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracykingceo/Chapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:23 World Autism Awareness Day Reflections01:23 Personal Meaning of Autism Awareness02:37 Creating Neuro-Inclusive Systems03:48 Signs of Being Different at Work04:42 Building Supportive, Flexible Work Environments05:47 Challenging Workplace Norms07:06 Misconceptions About Autism08:53 Why Systems Exclude Neurodivergent People10:04 Auditing Work and Learning Spaces11:12 Neuro Inclusion as Strategic Advantage12:57 Prevalence and Hidden Neurodivergence14:41 Interpreting Life After Late Diagnosis17:27 Designing for All Brain Types19:51 Meaningful Action Beyond Awareness21:27 Moving From Awareness to Structural Change22:40 Making Inclusion Last24:43 Finding Tracy King and Episode Wrap-up

If you’ve ever wondered what International Yoga Day can mean for those of us who don’t spend hours on the mat, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Aaron Hines, an exercise physiologist who helps adults over 45 move pain-free, stay strong, and enjoy life’s everyday moments. We talk about how flexibility and mobility are just as important as strength—especially as we age. Aaron Hines shares what changed his mind about practices like Yoga and Pilates, and why even skeptics can come to embrace mindful movement. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll learn two key things: why it matters to “play the long game” in health and fitness, and how slowing down—whether in wellness or your creative practice—can build true resilience. Plus, Aaron Hines offers a simple mindset shift anyone can use to reconnect with their body and goals. Give this one a listen if you need a practical nudge to look after yourself for the long haul.If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.Sign up here: https://observeday.com/joinConnect With Aaron HinesWebsite: https://www.premierperformancetrainer.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/premierperformancetnChapters00:00 Intro and Why Yoga Matters00:44 Meet Aaron Hines01:07 The Shift to Flexibility02:02 Recovering Mindfully After Sports03:04 Skeptics Who Become Believers04:05 Breaking Pilates Stereotypes05:30 Misconceptions About Mobility Work07:00 Why Consistency Is Hard07:50 Modeling Healthy Habits for Kids09:56 What Happens When You Ignore Mobility11:41 Longevity vs. Aesthetics in Fitness12:01 How Aaron Trains Adults Over 4513:22 Playing the Long Game in Health14:02 Balance: Strength and Restoration15:17 Slowing Down Builds Resilience16:29 Image vs. True Health18:52 What’s Missing in Wellness Awareness21:08 One Mindset Shift to Reconnect22:01 Where to Find Aaron22:30 Closing and Newsletter Invite