The Kindness Podcast

What does kindness look like when we learn to train our minds instead of being controlled by them?In this thoughtful conversation, Nicole sits down with Shashin Surkund, a technology leader who has spent his career building data and AI systems that shape how people experience products and services. But after a deeply personal life event, Shashin turned that same curiosity inward and began asking a different question: what if we trained our minds the way we train AI?That question became the foundation for a powerful new way of thinking.Shashin has spent the last decade raising awareness around mental health and helping people build lives rooted in gratitude, trust, and a more supportive inner voice. In his TEDx talk, he introduced the world to the idea of “inner ChatGPT,” a way of befriending the mind by being more intentional about what we feed it. In his world, GPT means something a little different: Gratitude and Positive Thoughts.Together, Nicole and Shashin talk about mental spirals, self-talk, positivity, and the quiet but powerful practice of being kinder to ourselves. They explore what it means to interrupt negative patterns, why small consistent messages matter, and how we can begin building an inner voice we actually trust.This episode is a reminder that kindness is not only something we offer to others. It is also something we practice in the way we speak to ourselves.About Shashin Surkund:Shashin Surkund is a seasoned technology professional who works for a leading financial organization and has spent much of his career enabling data platforms where analytics and AI are used at scale to create better products, services, and customer experiences.A personal life event led him to discover a deeper purpose: raising awareness around mental health. For the past decade, he has dedicated himself to fostering a culture of gratitude, trust, and positivity in both his personal and professional life.In November, Shashin introduced his best friend, POSH, short for Positive Shashin, on the TEDx stage. Through vulnerability and insight, he shared an innovative approach to mental wellness by encouraging people to treat their minds like AI language models and train them like their own inner ChatGPT. In his framework, GPT stands for Gratitude and Positive Thoughts.To kickstart each day, Shashin sends a simple email with a few uplifting thoughts to thousands of people in his organization. He calls it Daily Dose of Positivity, or DDOP.His story and openness have deeply resonated with others, earning him an unofficial but meaningful title from colleagues: Chief Happiness Officer.Connect with Shashin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shashin-surkund-4288a7 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innerchatgpt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18SshKoJu3/?mibextid=wwXIfrWatch or read more: TEDx: Harness Your Inner ChatGPT https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/harness-your-inner-chatgpt-shashin-surkund-cdake https://youtu.be/BsZg2y9XCQ4?si=hn8tdHVBhXtyDcfu

Episode Description:In this honest conversation, Nicole sits down with Asha Miller, breast cancer survivor, vitiligo advocate, storyteller, and founder of Asha Miller Creative. Diagnosed with stage 3B aggressive breast cancer at just 33, Asha shares how that experience reshaped not only her health, but her sense of self, her voice, her faith, and her understanding of what it means to live fully in the body she has now.Together, they talk about visible difference, truth telling, motherhood, healing, community, and the courage it takes to stay open when life gets hard. Asha’s story is powerful, grounded, and deeply human. This episode is for anyone navigating illness, identity shifts, or the quiet work of learning to be kind to yourself in a life you did not plan.In this episode, we talk about: • What life looked like before Asha’s breast cancer diagnosis at 33 • How cancer impacted her identity, not just her body • What it means to live fully in the body you have now • How vitiligo shaped her relationship with visibility and self acceptance • Why telling the truth matters more than telling the polished version. Why this conversation matters Asha reminds us that kindness is not denial. It is not pretending everything is fine. It is honesty. It is tenderness. It is learning to stay with yourself, even when your body feels unfamiliar and your life has taken a turn you never asked for.Her story offers hope without sugarcoating. Truth without performance. And a powerful reminder that healing is rarely neat, but it can still be meaningful.About Asha Miller Asha Miller is a breast cancer veteran, vitiligo advocate, storyteller, and consultant based in Columbus, Ohio. Diagnosed with stage 3B aggressive breast cancer at 33, she transformed her diagnosis into a life rooted in advocacy, truth telling, and building community. She is the founder of Asha Miller Creative and the voice behind Dear Cancer, It’s Me, where she creates space for honest conversations about identity, healing, faith, visible difference, and what it means to live fully in the body you have now. Through writing, speaking, and storytelling initiatives with hospitals and national organizations, Asha helps people reclaim their voice and push back darkness with love. At the heart of everything she does are her two children, who remind her daily that kindness begins at home, in the smallest moments, and in the courage to stay tender even when life has been anything but.Connect with Asha: Instagram: @dearcancer_itsme Everyday Health contributor page: Asha Dee Miller Linktree: Dear Cancer, It’s MeOutro If this conversation meant something to you, share it with someone who might need it too. And if you’re walking through something hard right now, you’re not alone in it.And remember, what you look for is what you’ll see.

Episode Summary What if getting older didn’t mean fading into the background… but stepping more fully into who you are?In this episode, Nicole sits down with Gaylynn Baker, actor, director, writer, and the vibrant force behind Mabel from Retirement House. With over 30 years in the industry, Gaylynn is not slowing down. She is expanding, creating, and showing up in bold, joyful ways that challenge everything we’ve been taught about aging.Together, they explore what it means to stay visible, embrace reinvention, and practice kindness toward yourself in every season of life.At the center of the conversation is a powerful question: What does kindness look like when you refuse to disappear as you age?What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy aging does not have to mean becoming lessWhat it really looks like to “embrace aging without getting old”How Gaylynn continues to show up creatively and visibly in this seasonLessons from playing Mabel in Retirement House and why humor mattersA powerful reminder for anyone who feels invisible or unsure of their placeAbout Gaylynn Baker: Gaylynn Baker is an actor, director, writer, and storyteller with more than three decades of experience across film, television, and stage. She is widely known for her role as Mabel in the viral comedy Retirement House, which has built a global audience of over 10 million followers and more than 5 billion views.She is also the creator of three award winning documentaries, including We Know Not What We Do, The Trail of Painted Ponies (PBS), and When Buffalo Roam. Her work has earned multiple honors, including the Accolade Humanitarian Award and Best Woman Director at the White Sands Film Festival.Gaylynn is the author of Gifts of Gratitude and continues to create content centered on joy, spirituality, and living a daring, visible life. She currently connects with audiences through livestreams and social media, where she encourages people to embrace aging with humor, depth, and presence.Connect with GaylynnWebsite: https://gaylynnbakerofficial.comTikTok: @gaylynnbakerofficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaylynnbakerofficial/Retirement House IG: https://www.instagram.com/retirementhouse/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethgaylynn.bakerFinal Thought Aging is not about shrinking. It is about expanding into who you really are.If you’ve been feeling invisible, consider this your reminder. You still get to show up. You still get to create. You still get to be seen.And remember, what you look for is what you’ll see.

What Does Kindness Look Like When We Treat Our Body as a Friend with Camellia JadeIn this episode of The Kindness Podcast, I’m joined by Camellia Jade, a creative visionary helping women build confidence, community, and a healthier relationship with their bodies. Through fashion, vulnerability, and a lot of courage online, Camellia has turned style into a vehicle for self love. She is the founder of Confidera, a speaker, and the creator of events that invite women to show up fully as themselves.We talk about the difference between visibility and validation. How stepping on camera can expose old wounds. And why so many women feel isolated inside bodies they live in every day. Camellia shares what viral attention did to her mental health, how burnout showed up physically, and what healing body dysmorphia taught her about kindness toward herself.This is a conversation about more than clothes. It is about identity, safety, and the quiet courage it takes to be seen. It is about building circles of women who choose honesty over performance and connection over comparison.Big question this episode explores: What does kindness look like when we treat our body as a friend instead of a project?In this episode, we talk about: • How Camellia describes her work to someone meeting her for the first time • When fashion became a doorway to deeper healing • The hidden problem she sees women struggling with • Lessons from stepping into public visibility • Viral fame and its impact on mental health • Why social media can turn toxic and how she navigates it • Body image, vulnerability, and practicing self kindness • Healing body dysmorphia in a public space • What victory in vulnerability actually looks like • One kind thing women can do for themselves todayAbout Camellia JadeCamellia Jade is a Creative Visionary for Confidence and Community dedicated to helping women look good, feel good, and live boldly. As Founder and CEO of Confidera, she designs clothing that blends style, comfort, and purpose. She also creates empowering events that celebrate movement, connection, and self expression.A sought after speaker, Camellia inspires audiences to embrace their unique style, own their story, and build communities where confidence thrives.Website: www.camelliajade.com Instagram: @camellia_jadeThank you for listening to The Kindness Podcast.If this episode made you think of someone who could use a little encouragement, share it with them.And remember, what we look for is what we will see.

Finding the Eye of the Storm with Richard GreeneIn this episode of The Kindness Podcast, I’m joined by Richard Greene, author of Finding the Eye of the Storm. After a near death experience, Richard returned with a new way of seeing the world. Less separation. Less urgency to be right. More awareness of how we treat each other in ordinary moments.We talk about what it means to live from the “eye of the storm.” A place of calm, clarity, and presence even when life feels chaotic. Richard shares how this experience shaped the five pillars he now lives by and how curiosity and humility can completely change the tone of hard conversations.This is a conversation about kindness that goes deeper than being nice. It is about being awake. Paying attention. Choosing connection.Big question this episode explores: What does kindness look like when you have seen the end and come back more awake to the beginning?In this episode, we talk about: • Growing up feeling both the biggest and the smallest • Richard’s near death experience and how it changed his life • What “the eye of the storm” really means • The five pillars he now lives by • How curiosity and humility shift difficult conversations • Kindness as awareness, not performance • One small shift that can change how you move through the world • A favorite kindness storyAbout Richard Greene (He/Him)Richard Greene is an author, speaker, and seasoned business leader who helps organizations create lasting success with a strong human foundation. He is CEO of Clarus Advisors, where he supports mission driven organizations through mindful leadership, cultural alignment, and clear strategy.He has held executive roles at Bank of America, the U.S. Soybean Export Council, and served as Executive Director of the NC Craft Brewers Guild. His work blends strategy, emotional intelligence, and presence.Richard is the author of Building Value: The 5 Keys for Achieving Success and Finding the Eye of the Storm, a memoir and reflection on life, loss, and resilience.He grew up in New Jersey, earned his BA from the University of Florida, and has lived in several states across the country.Get the book: Finding the Eye of the StormPurchase at a discounted price here: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=PTvA0Y4X5dz5ti9cHTlVYYdxi16zi3am4V7ZpW4KGv4Thank you for listening to The Kindness Podcast.If this episode made you think of someone who could use a little encouragement, share it with them.And remember, what we look for is what we will see.

Episode DescriptionWhat if kindness wasn’t soft at all, but one of the most powerful biological forces we have?In this episode of The Kindness Podcast, Nicole Phillips talks with David R. Hamilton, a former pharmaceutical scientist and one of the world’s leading researchers on the science of kindness.Dr. Hamilton explains why kindness is literally wired into our genes, how it counteracts stress at a physiological level, and why genuine kindness changes inflammation, immunity, aging, and mental health. They also talk about why “being nice” out of duty does not count, why kindness has real teeth, and how small moments of compassion can ripple out to change lives we will never meet.This conversation is honest, science-backed, and deeply human.Show NotesGuest: Dr. David R. Hamilton Author of 12 books including The Joy of Actually Giving an F*ck Former pharmaceutical scientist turned kindness researcher Based in Scotland, UKWhat We Cover• Why calling someone a “kindness expert” can feel uncomfortable • How Dr. Hamilton’s work in pharmaceuticals led him to study kindness • The placebo effect and why kindness is a mind-body phenomenon • What actually counts as kindness and what does not • Why duty-based kindness gives no benefit to the giver • “Nature’s Catch-22” and why kindness has to be genuine • How kindness directly reduces stress, blood pressure, and inflammation • The link between kindness and slower cellular aging • Why kindness is the true physiological opposite of stress • A powerful personal story about compassion at the exact right moment • What to do when life feels too heavy to be kind • The ripple effect of kindness and how one small act can impact over 100 peopleKey Takeaways• Kindness is not weak. It is biologically powerful. • The benefits only happen when kindness is real. • You don’t need grand gestures. Small moments matter. • You are already creating ripple effects, whether you see them or not. • Kindness changes the quality of other people’s days, and your own body.Memorable Quotes“Physiologically speaking, the opposite of stress is kindness.”“You only get the benefits of kindness if you mean it.”“Kindness has teeth. Powerful teeth.”“You are setting waves in motion that reach people you will never meet.”ResourcesDr. David Hamilton’s website: https://drdavidhamilton.com Better You Backed By Science vlog: https://www.youtube.com/@davidrhamiltonphdSign up for weekly science-backed kindness emails and check out his books!Dr. David Hamilton's latest online course (Why Woo Woo Works) starts in January. Sign up here: https://drdavidhamilton.com/online-courses/

***A quick heads up. The audio quality in this episode isn’t perfect. We’ve corrected the issue moving forward and chose to share this conversation anyway because Jess’s perspective is too valuable to miss.Season 7, Episode 5• Mic Drop Bootcamp Registration is open now. Bootcamp begins January 16. • New book coming May 2026 Making It Without Losing It How to Stay Motivated in a World Where We Are Never Done https://a.co/d/0CeFDJg• Free weekly Hype Text Text HYPE to 704-228-9495Question: What does kindness look like when women encourage women?Nicole Phillips sits down with Jess Ekstrom for a real conversation about women supporting women without competition, comparison, or performative cheerleading. This episode is about what encouragement actually looks like in practice and why it matters.What we talk about• Encouragement that builds confidence instead of pressure • Turning frustration into meaningful ideas • Why optimism is a strategy, not a mood • Helping more women step onto stages • Staying motivated when the work never feels finishedAbout JessJess is the founder of Headbands of Hope and Mic Drop Workshop. She is a two time bestselling author, Forbes Top Rated Speaker, investor in women owned businesses, and mom.She launched Headbands of Hope with a $300 grant and has since donated millions of headbands to children facing illness, reaching every children’s hospital in the U.S. and 22 countries. The brand is now the official headband provider for the NBA and WNBA and is sold in Kohl’s nationwide.Jess founded Mic Drop Workshop to help more women share their message as public speakers and authors. Her work has been featured on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, CNN, Forbes, Vanity Fair, and People Magazine.Books• Chasing the Bright Side • Create Your Bright Ideas • Making It Without Losing It coming May 2026Ways to connect with Jess• Instagram: www.instagram.com/jess_ekstrom • Facebook: www.facebook.com/jessekstrom • X: www.twitter.com/jess_ekstrom • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessekstrom • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ekstrom-59160342/Key takeaways• Women lift each other by being specific and generous • Relatability builds trust faster than polish • Purpose grows when your work connects to others • Kindness shows up in action, not just intentionListen to The Kindness Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or watch on YouTube.

The Kindness Podcast Episode Overview: In this episode, Nicole talks with Dr. Caitlin Ryan about what real support looks like for families with an LGBTQ child. Dr. Ryan has spent decades listening to young people and their caregivers, and she brings a clear, grounded view of what helps and what harms.They focus on the work of the Family Acceptance Project, which has shown how everyday family behaviors strongly influence a child’s health, safety and sense of belonging. Nicole and Dr. Ryan talk about why small relational shifts matter so much, why families sometimes react in painful ways without meaning to, and how practical guidance can change outcomes for both kids and parents.A key part of the conversation explores the tension families feel when faith or cultural beliefs seem at odds with their child’s identity. Dr. Ryan shares how she has seen families honor those beliefs while still choosing understanding, curiosity and love, and how that choice often opens the door to healing.The episode returns to one guiding question. What does kindness look like for families who want to support their LGBTQ child? Dr. Ryan offers simple, realistic steps that bring the answer within reach.Our guest is LGBTQ expert, Dr. Caitlin Ryan.Caitlin Ryan, PhD, ACSW is a clinical social worker, educator and researcher who has worked on LGBTQ health and mental health since the the 1970s and whose work on LGBTQ health has shaped policy and practice for LGBTQ children and youth. She directs the Family Acceptance Project® (FAP) at San Francisco State University – a research, education, intervention and policy project – to help ethnically, racially and religiously diverse families to support their LGBTQ children. Dr. Ryan and her team conducted the first research on LGBTQ youth and families and developed the first evidence-based family support model to help diverse families and caregivers to prevent health risks and to promote well-being for LGBTQ children and youth in the context of their families, cultures and faith traditions. Dr. Ryan’s work has been recognized by national professional groups in the fields of counseling, medicine, nursing, psychiatry, psychology and social work, and from civic, LGBTQ, advocacy, arts and faith-based groups. This includes recognition for her work by the American Psychological Association’s Division 44 that gave her the Distinguished Scientific Contribution Award for groundbreaking research on LGBTQ youth and families, by the American Psychiatric Association and by the Human Rights Campaign for lifetime contributions to well-being for LGBTQ youth. Dr. Ryan is implementing FAP’s trauma-informed family support model across systems of care and has trained more than 130,000 families, providers, religious leaders and youth on FAP’s family support approach across the U.S. and in other countries. She works with organizations, faith communities, families and providers to integrate FAP’s family-based support model to build healthy futures for LGBTQ children, youth and young adults across disciplines, services and systems.https://lgbtqfamilyacceptance.orghttps://familyproject.sfsu.eduBehaviors that help/behaviors that hurt posters: https://familyproject.sfsu.edu/postershttps://familyproject.sfsu.edu/publications

In Season 7, Episode 3 of The Kindness Podcast, Nicole talks with Adam Schluter. Together, they answer the questions: What does kindness look like when we're talking to strangers? and What does kindness look like when we're trying to connect in a world that feels disconnected? Our guest, Adam Schluter has spent over eight years independently exploring the dying art of genuine human connection – unfunded. It’s not a trick or special skill—he’s an artist, not a psychologist—driven by the intrinsic value of something he believes the world is losing. He’s been published multiple times in National Geographic and given a TEDx talk on it (below) so his spontaneous and intuitive approach belies the emotional intelligence required to actually do what he does so naturally. Adam’s lens on life is both curious and compelling. However, it’s his ability to hold space for others in a way that enables people to candidly share their own perspectives with us that is so powerful. In listening radically to each other in a respectful and undivided space people are able to share their beautiful, humanising vulnerability and wisdom with us. In capturing this seemingly dying art of genuine connection, we aim to celebrate something we all need as humans – real, face-to-face community.Be sure to check out these links: To the whole project: hellofromastranger.comFor the Monday Night Dinners: https://www.hellofromastranger.com/monday-night-dinnerThe trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPT4qlo-PZ0The documentary on the whole project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W72niMR2Dwo&t=4s

The Kindness PodcastEpisode: What Does Kindness Look Like When We’re Talking to Our Teens? Guest: Shanna Reyes, MS, LCMHCSEpisode OverviewTalking to teens can bring out the best — and sometimes the worst — in us. In this episode, host Nicole J. Phillips talks with trauma expert Shanna Reyes about how kindness can reshape the way we communicate with our kids, especially when conversations get uncomfortable.They explore how to connect instead of control, how to set expectations when college kids return home for the holidays, and what to do when we inevitably get it wrong. Because kindness in parenting isn’t about saying all the right things — it’s about being willing to repair when we don’t.About the GuestShanna Reyes is the founder of Counseling Integrity and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor with nearly two decades of experience specializing in complex PTSD, dissociation, and developmental trauma. She combines cutting-edge neuroscience with deep clinical intuition to help clients heal at the root level.She is one of only four EMDR Institute Facilitators in North Carolina and serves as Co-Coordinator for the NC Trauma Recovery Network (EMDR HAP). Shanna is also EMDRIA Certified and trained in Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Parts Work/Ego State Therapy, and Transactional Analysis/Redecision Therapy.Key TakeawaysHow to open conversations when your teen seems shut down or defensive.Why setting expectations before college kids come home can prevent conflict.How to recover when you say something you regret.Why repair — not perfection — builds lasting connection.Simple ways to bring curiosity and calm to tough moments.Resources MentionedCounseling Integrity – Shanna ReyesThe Gottman Institute – Parenting ResourcesThe Whole-Brain Child and No-Drama Discipline by Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson (“Repair, repair, repair.”)

What does kindness look like when we can't fix what's wrong in someone's life? In this moving kickoff to Season 7 of The Kindness Podcast, host Nicole Phillips sits down with trauma chaplain Robyn Hare, who spends her days walking into the hardest moments imaginable — emergency rooms, trauma bays, and hospital waiting areas where lives change in an instant.Nicole and Robyn talk about what it really means to show up for people when their world has fallen apart, how to offer comfort instead of control, and the smallest gestures that bring light to unbearable situations. If you’ve ever wondered what to do when someone you love is hurting — or how to stay kind and grounded in a world that feels heavy — this conversation is for you.Be warned -- Nicole and Robyn are good friends and find humor in almost everything.

We thought you'd want to know about this new podcast! You can listen today wherever you get your podcasts and at wowgod.com

Hear the brand-new podcast called "Wow God Stories", with hosts, Lisa WIlliams and Ann Sorenson. This podcast reminds us of a God who is able, alive, and active in our lives. https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/wow-god-stories/ Click the link, or subscribe on Apple, Google, or Spotify today.

Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring episode of The Kindness Podcast, as host Nicole Phillips bids farewell for a season. In this special episode, producer Jason Rackow sits down with Nicole for an interview, where she shares some of the most valuable kindness lessons she's learned over the years. From touching anecdotes to personal experiences, Nicole opens up about the transformative power of kindness and how it has shaped her life. Through heartfelt storytelling, she reflects on the importance of empathy, compassion, and God's kindness towards her  Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in and be inspired by Nicole's journey of kindness and the lessons she imparts along the way.

  #1 international best-selling author of A Child Called It, speaker and humanitarian Dave Pelzer welcomes readers into the next chapter of his life – and examines why, after spending decades saving others in the military, as a fire captain, and as an internationally acclaimed advocate, he is confronted with the need to save himself. His new book, Return to the River, was written for anyone who has been hurt, victimized, abandoned or feels alone, as a reminder there is always a way to rewrite your own story. Connect with Dave at DavePelzer.com. 

    Steve Sjogren is the founding pastor of Vineyard Community Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. He and his wife Janie started with a small group of 5 that ultimately grew under his leadership to a weekend attendance of over 6,000 attendees. During this journey, Steve has mentored numerous church planters and leaders.   Steve’s first book, Conspiracy of Kindness, has been translated into several languages with more in the works. His first book has sold over 300,000 copies.  Conspiracy of Kindness has gained attention across a broad base of church leaders as an effective and creative approach to sharing the love of Christ. Steve’s passion for evangelism, church planting, and leadership development are reflected in his writing. You can connect with him at https://www.stevesjogren.com   

  Author of the Mom's Choice Gold Award honorees What's Under Your Cape? and the picture book Mr. Quigley's Keys, Barbara Gruener is a bilingual educator, speaker, coach and beloved school counselor who works passionately to influence school culture. Barbara is in her 38th year in education. Barbara grew up on her family's dairy farm in Wisconsin, but today home is Texas, where she and her husband John raised their three now-adult children. Connect with Barbara at https://barbaragruenerauthor.com. 

In a culture where constant offense and polarization dominate so many interactions, singer, songwriter and bestselling author Mike Donehey (formerly of the Grammy-nominated CCM band Tenth Avenue North) offers good news about a more productive way to disagree. His new book is called Grace in the Gray: A More Loving Way to Disagree. Check out Mike’s podcast, Chasing the Beauty, and visit him at www.MikeDonehey.com. 

Steven Shields is passionate about helping others regain their freedom through processing trauma. In 2016, he started the UnashamedUnafraid podcast to be a voice of hope, speaking personally about sexual addiction recovery. Now as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), Steven works with others to help them experience the freedom of healing. He also leads groups and individuals through life-changing workshops. Steven says hope is possible for every heart no matter how big the trauma or how hopeless it seems. Connect with Steven at  https://www.stevenwshields.com and https://acceptedlife.com. 

Author Thomas J. Penisten’s new release, A Time for Color, A Book About Joy, is a vibrant and poignant story about living with joy and not losing yourself and your zeal for life when things get tough. Thomas has always loved the arts and writing, having attended the Metropolitan School of Art where he studied the classics. His wife, Landa, is instrumental in his editing and publishing process. He was also inspired by the goodness of his late sister, Chrissy, a schoolteacher who was kind to all.   A kid at heart, when he isn't busy writing thought-provoking books, Thomas enjoys hiking, camping, snowmobiling, ATVing, and bicycle riding with his wife. They have two daughters, one son and two grandchildren. They live in Platteville, Wisconsin, with their two Boston Terriers, Gertrude and Winston.    You can find Thomas’s books online at GammaBurstBooks.com. 

  Charlie Berens is an Emmy-winning journalist, comedian, and creator of the Manitowoc Minute. The Wisconsin native has been featured on Fox, CBS, Funny or Die, TBS Digital, Variety, MTV News, and more. He's really funny. And I think he's also a pretty good guy. Tell your folks I says Hi and hustle on over to https://www.charlieberens.com. 

Sophia R. Tyler hopes to reintroduce the timeless message of the Golden Rule to young children. Currently a senior at Hope College, she will begin the Master of Social Work program at the University of Denver in Fall 2023. Sophia also interns for Ready for Life, a nonprofit organization that fosters an inclusive community and provides creative and engaging opportunities for college students with disabilities. Her children’s picture book, The Friendly Mouse, launched on March 21, 2022. Read the rave reviews about this debut book on Goodreads. 

Dr. Scott Morris is a leading voice in the field of faith and health, and is the founder and chief executive officer of Church Health in Memphis, Tennessee. The clinic opened in 1987 to provide healthcare for working, uninsured people and their families. It has grown into the largest faith-based health care ministry of its type.       Connect with Church Health at https://churchhealth.org. 

Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and bestselling author with more than 145 million products in print that have been translated in 45 languages and distributed in 80 countries worldwide. Max entered the ministry in 1978. As a writer, Max is known for combining poetic storytelling and homespun humor with the heart of a pastor. He’s been dubbed “America’s Pastor” by Christianity Today, and “The Best Preacher in America” by Reader’s Digest. He was awarded the 2021 ECPA Pinnacle Award for outstanding contribution in publishing. Max currently serves as Teaching Minister of Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas. Max and Denalyn live nearby in Central Texas. They have three grown daughters, two sons-in-law, and two grandchildren. Visit his website at www.MaxLucado.com. 

Bruce Reyes-Chow speaks and writes on issues of faith, technology, race, parenting, and church culture. He was the Moderator of the 218th General Assembly and is currently the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto. He is also a Senior Consultant and Coach with The Convergence Network, and a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach. Bruce hosts the podcast, BRC & Friends and is the author of four books. His latest, In Defense of Kindness: Why It Matters, How It Changes Our Lives, and How It Can Save the World was published by Chalice Press in 2021. He has an active online presence and can be found on most social networks via @breyeschow.

Diana Knott began Asher’s Gift Box after receiving the news of hearing loss in her seven month old son, Asher. The mission of Asher’s Gift Box is to support and empower newly diagnosed children under 3 years old, who are hard of hearing, and their families. Each Asher’s Gift Box contains a children’s book with hard of hearing characters, an American Sign Language book, a stuffed animal with a hearing device, among other treasures. Head to Diana’s Facebook page to read testimonies and find out how you can get involved. 

Noel and Alex Miranda are co-founders of Bravebird, a woman and indigenous-owned video production agency that brings dignity through visuals. Alex spent 15 years working in Hollywood, first as a professional actor and later in creative development at a top Hollywood studio. His credits include TV shows like The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Walker Texas Ranger. Noel produced Bravebird's first competitive short film, Fantasy in D Minor, which premiered at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival and won Best International Short Film at Oxford. Check out their work at https://www.wearebravebird.com. 

Chrystal Evans Hurst is a gifted writer, speaker, and worship leader. Being the eldest child of Dr. Tony and Lois Evans, Chrystal been surrounded by the Word of God her entire life. Chrystal recently co-authored Divine Disruption with her dad and three siblings. You can find Chrystal writing on her blog—Chrystal’s Chronicles—where she poignantly reflects her thoughts about her faith and day-to-day experiences. Chrystal is a dedicated wife and homeschooling mother of five. She considers herself to be the COO (Chief Operating Officer) of the Hurst household which is located in a small town just outside of Dallas, Texas. Learn more at https://chrystalevanshurst.com.

Nicole turns the tables on Fargo’s Life 97.9 morning show icon Allen Jones! Nicole is usually the one to share kindness stories on his show – now it’s his turn!

In her debut children’s book, Christina Dankert takes us into Mr. Wilson’s second grade classroom where students learn the power within themselves to be kind. Even adults will feel the encouragement of The Kindness Machine!

Adam Weber is the founder and lead pastor of Embrace, a church based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Author of Love Has A Name and Talking with God, he also hosts a podcast called The Conversation. Adam likes sitting on his front porch, singing in his car at the top of his lungs, and meeting strangers (the stranger the better). He still cheers for the Cincinnati Bengals but no longer drives a Rambler. He’s married to his (patient) wife, Becky, and has four kids: Hudson, Wilson, Grayson, & Anderson. He also has seven chickens, two dogs, & three fish, but what he really wants is a sheep. You can find out more at adamweber.com.

As a Top-3 finalist on Season Eight of American Idol, Danny Gokey quickly became a favorite of millions. Following Idol, Gokey dropped his first album, My Best Days, which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart. Since that time, Danny has cemented his place on the radio charts with multi-week, multi-chart top-ten runs in the United States, Canada and now Latin markets with his Spanish singles. He has been honored with three Grammy nominations, three wins as KLOVE Male Vocalist of the Year, two Dove Awards and numerous Dove Award nominations. You can connect with Danny at https://www.dannygokey.com.

In this special episode of The Kindness Podcast, we are kicking off Season 5 by introducing our new listeners to our host, Nicole Phillips. Nicole is a champion for using kindness and the power of prayer to overcome all of life’s difficulties, including her own battles with alcoholism, depression and breast cancer. You may have seen Nicole on Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family show, HGTV’s House Hunters or on The Price is Right. She was also Miss Wisconsin 1997. Nicole is the author of five books, including Kindness is Contagious and The Negativity Remedy. She is married to her childhood crush, Saul, who is the college men’s basketball coach at Northern State University. The couple lives in Aberdeen, South Dakota with their three children and oversized Goldendoodle. You can connect with Nicole at www.NicoleJPhillips.com.

Christine Caine is a sought-after international speaker, author and activist. Known for her ability to effectively communicate a message of hope, Christine has a heart for reaching the lost, strengthening leadership, and championing the cause of justice. Together with her husband, Nick, she founded the anti-human trafficking organization, The A21 Campaign – a recipient of the Mother Theresa Memorial Award for their work combating human trafficking among refugees. They also founded Propel Women, an organization designed to celebrate every woman’s passion, purpose, and potential. Christine and Nick make their home in Southern California with their daughters, Catherine and Sophia. See more at https://christinecaine.com/. You can also connect on social media at https://www.instagram.com/christinecaine/ https://www.facebook.com/theChristineCaine/ https://twitter.com/ChristineCaine

Josh Neumann is on a mission to end bullying and teach the world to speak through kind lips. He’s created his own lip balm company -- kind lips -- to spread the message, and it’s working! Kind Lips has been featured by Ellen, Forbes, and Reader’s Digest just to name a few. Learn more about his mission to end bullying at www.kindlips.com.

Twila True, a lifelong member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe, is a mega-successful entrepreneur whose businesses total more than one billion dollars. With roots from the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, the poorest community in the U.S., Twila overcame a challenging family upbringing to become a business megaforce, from investing and incubating, to owning and operating, multi-million dollar companies in entertainment, beauty, fashion, food and real estate. In addition to her businesses, Twila’s charitable ventures include an orphanage assistance foundation in China, and a Native American personal development foundation in the U.S. One of Twila’s latest projects involves bringing up young musicians at 1500 Sound Academy, a state-of-the-art music college based in Inglewood, California. Learn more about Twila at https://twilatruecollaborations.com/.

Kevin Williams has been Chick-fil-A franchisee for 28 years. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a Management Information Systems degree. Kevin began his career in banking prior to his career with Chick-fil-A. He was first introduced to the Chick-fil-A brand by the founder Truett Cathy as a teenager when he spoke to his church. Kevin operates three Chick-fil-A Restaurants in Canton, GA. Kevin recently released his first book, “Irrational Kindness: A Crazy Pursuit of an Extraordinary Life” written as part-operating manual for life and part-employee handbook. He and his wife Gwen have 4 children and they love a good walk, cheering on UGA and exploring creative places & spaces. Connect with Kevin at www.irrationalkindness.com.

Jackie Moore received her Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology, but it’s real life that has been her greatest teacher. Three years ago she launched Jordyn's Summer Shirt Project to teach Jordyn, her daughter with autism, job skills. Jordyn has not only learned valuable work skills, she’s also encouraging people to be kind to everyone. Find Jackie and Jordyn online at www.bekindtoeveryone.com and @summershirtproject.

Kim and Penn Holderness have been married for 16 years. For seven of those years, they have chronicled their marriage and their family with funny music videos, vlogs, skits, and a podcast. Their videos have garnered over a billion views worldwide. Penn and Kim honed their storytelling skills with 25 combined years in the TV news business. When the wonderful worlds of YouTube and Facebook appeared, Kim had the idea to ditch the traditional broadcast world and start making content in the digital space. When they aren’t dancing around like crazy people on the internet, Penn and Kim help international companies make videos of their own. Penn and Kim live in Raleigh with their two children and dog. Check out their new book, Everybody Fights and connect at https://theholdernessfamily.com/.

Nicki Koziarz is a two-time ECPA bestselling author and speaker with Proverbs 31 Ministries. She speaks nationally at conferences, retreats, and meetings and hosts her own podcast. An evangelist at heart, Nicki inspires others to become the best version of who God created them to be. Nicki and her husband and three girls run a small farm just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, which they affectionately call The Fixer Upper Farm. In her new book, Flooded: The Five Best Decisions to Make When Life is Hard and Doubt is Rising, Nicki bravely shares her own struggles with doubt and the man with the arc who became her role model for faith. Visit Nicki's website : www.nickikoziarz.com

It’s hard to imagine how many times Micah Tyler spent his days wondering ‘what’s next,’ while driving a sausage delivery truck across southeast Texas. Surely he was questioning his own discernment to quit his youth pastor gig, sell half of what he owned to move his family into a single-wide trailer, and start traveling the region performing songs he’d written. It’s seems to all have worked out pretty well -- Fast-forward down that long road and the same guy behind the delivery truck wheel now has a record deal, multiple Dove Award & KLOVE Award nominations, two BMI Top 25 Christian Songs, and three #1 songs. His new album, “New Today” is out now. Learn more about the man and music at micahtyler.com.

Sissy Goff, M.Ed., LPC-MHSP is the Director of Child and Adolescent Counseling at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville, Tennessee, where she works alongside her counseling assistant/pet therapist, Lucy the Havanese. Since 1993, she has been helping girls and their parents find confidence in who they are and hope in who God is making them to be, both as individuals and families. Sissy is a sought-after speaker for parenting events and the author of twelve books, including the bestselling Raising Worry-Free Girls and Braver, Stronger, Smarter (for elementary aged girls) and her new release for teenage girls, Brave. Sissy is a regular contributor to various podcasts and publications as well as her own podcast called Raising Boys and Girls. You can find more information and resources at raisingboysandgirls.com and follow Sissy on Instagram at @sissygoff.

Carol McCloud, the “Bucket Lady,” is the author of ten books, which began with the blockbuster Have you Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids in 2006. By trade, Carol is a speaker, author and certified emotional intelligence trainer. Her books have sold three million copies and have been translated into many different languages. A champion for bucket filling, Carol works with a powerful presenter team who strive to help all ages and occupations grow in kindness, self-control, resilience and forgiveness, all leading to a happier life. Connect with Carol at : https://bucketfillers101.com.

Dr. Gary Chapman is an author, speaker, pastor, and counselor. He has a passion for people and for helping them build lasting relationships. He is an internationally recognized marriage counselor and director of marriage seminars. The 5 Love Languages is one of his most popular titles—it has been translated into 50 languages and has sold more than 11 million copies worldwide. Dr. Chapman was a family counselor in private practice for 40 years. His nationally- syndicated radio programs air on more than 400 stations. Learn more at https://www.5lovelanguages.com.

Brad Aronson knows the transformative power of kindness. When his wife, Mia, was diagnosed with leukemia, Brad began caring for his wife and walking their young son through the journey. But they didn’t walk alone. Brad was so overwhelmed by the abundance of kindness that he began taking note - literally. Then he began to collect the stories of people around the world. That became his Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling book, Human Kind: Changing the World One Small Act At a Time. Brad provides more stories and inspiration on his website, bradaronson.com. The author’s royalties go to support charities, including Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Scott Sauls is senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville. Before this, he served with Tim Keller at New York City's Redeemer Presbyterian Church as a lead and preaching pastor. Scott has authored five published books: Jesus Outside the Lines, Befriend, From Weakness to Strength, Irresistible Faith, and A Gentle Answer. Scott also blogs weekly on his website scottsauls.com and is active on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube at @scottsauls.

Penn and Kim Holderness have produced more than 100 videos since the global pandemic started, including over 50 songs - some with multiple tracks in a medley format. Their videos on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram have garnered over 365 million views from all over the globe! They receive thousands of comments per day from viewers thanking them for helping bring levity to such an uncertain, scary time. Get to know this hysterical family at https://theholdernessfamily.com/ or check out The Holderness Family on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Jason Mraz’s new album begins and ends with the same phrase: “Look for the good.” Those four words are not just a lyric or the title of his seventh studio album, but also an all-encompassing world philosophy for the musician, who believes that in dark and challenging times we should search for something positive. The musician also runs the Jason Mraz Foundation, which has donated over $1 million to organizations supporting inclusive arts education and equality. The foundation recently put on an event in San Diego, “SHINE,” to celebrate all-inclusive arts education and become more fully immersed in the community using Jason’s music as a backbone. In many ways, Jason, a two-time Grammy winner, Songwriters Hall of Fame Honoree and board member of the ASCAP Foundation, aims to use his position to empower others and inspire real-world change and positivity. Everything he does and every song he writes comes back to the idea of love. Look For The Good is not just an album – it’s a refreshing way of seeing and experiencing the world we live in. You can connect with Jason at : https://www.facebook.com/JasonMraz/ https://twitter.com/jason_mraz https://www.instagram.com/jason_mraz/ https://www.youtube.com/jasonmraz And on his website at https://jasonmraz.com.

Tony Bennett is the only living three-time winner of the Henry Iba Award for national coach of the year. A Wisconsin native, Tony took over as the head men's basketball coach at the University of Virginia in 2009 and set the goal of building "a program that lasts." Originally inheriting a 10-win team, his Virginia Cavaliers have since had four 30-win seasons and won the NCAA Tournament Championship in 2019. Follow Bennett’s Cavaliers this season at https://virginiasports.com.

Like many of us, Dr. Peter Kapsner wears dozens of hats. As a business owner, professor, radio host and church leader, there is one thread that is a constant in his life: Kindness. Peter talks with me about his thoughts on kindness as a form of practical theology in this episode of The Kindness Podcast.