Truly Great Life
by Ilana Ivan
Wondering how to navigate this wild world? Join me in exploring how to answer this question through the lens of Jewish wisdom, positive psychology, personal experiences and a whole lot of optimism (not Pollyanish or toxic!) so you can create a life that's not just good, but truly great. Each episode will help you build your toolkit for handling the twists and turns of this wonderful, wacky life with bits of insight, perspective, practical tips, and normalizing and inspiring stories. If not now, when? Let's make the most of our time here!
Episodes
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Some thoughts on how to tackle college essays
Some thoughts on how to tackle the college application essay #collegeadmissions #strengthsbased #coaching #graduation #careercoaching Originally published August 30, 2024. Watch it here: https://www.facebook.com/trulygreatlife/videos/493999030056512 Know a soon-to-be college grad - or a recent…
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✨ Embracing Uncertainty, Rewriting Your Life's Script | Raw DMC with Penina Taylor
Who says you have to fit into somebody else's box? In this powerful RAW DMC (raw, real, deep meaningful conversation), Penina Taylor takes us on an extraordinary journey of personal growth, and radical reinvention. From religious transformations to career changes and her upcoming full-time RV...
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[Recorded 10.1.24] Brief thoughts on the attack by Iran this morning
Immediate thoughts on the morning (USA) that Israel was attacked by Iran, on the last day of the Jewish year 5784, in light of a social media campaign I was sharing for the month of Elul about how to connect with God even if it's difficult. Originally published October 1, 2024. Watch it here:...
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RAW DMC #5 Unfiltered Truth: The Future of American Judaism with Aaron Weil
In this 5th episode of RAW DMC (Raw, real, deep meaningful conversations), Jewish community leader Aaron Weil breaks down the critical challenges facing American Jewry in the 21st century. With over 30 years of experience transforming Hillel communities and now living in Israel, Aaron offers an...
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Remembering 9/11 and thoughts on God
Remembering 9/11 and thoughts on God How can we believe when bad things happen? Why should we even try? I used to work in the World Trade Center, in Tower 1 and Building 4 years before the attacks. I didn’t know anyone personally who perished but I do know people who survived. I don’t have…
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Thoughts on perfection, doing the thing, social media and God
Thoughts about perfection, doing the thing, and God. #elul #spiritualawakening #connectingwithgod Originally published September 6, 2024. Watch it here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1511477802886018 Copyright Truly Great Life LLC All Rights Reserved 👉 Get my FREE email course: 30 Ways to…
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🔥 Are You Stuck in Your Own Personal EXILE? 🔥
What if the key to your freedom is HIDDEN in a single word? This Passover, I'm revealing a mind-blowing interpretation that could transform how you see your life's challenges. One ancient Hebrew word holds the secret to breaking through your limitations... Intrigued? Listen now and discover how…
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Raw DMC #4: A conversation with Nadav Weil
🌍 ADVENTURE, RESILIENCE & BREAKING BARRIERS 🌟 Imagine being told you'll never succeed, then proving everyone wrong. In this latest RAW DMC (raw and real deep meaningful conversation), meet Nadav Weil, a young professional, writer, and world traveler who is neurodivergent and has Tourette...
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🌟 Welcome to the Month of Miracles! 🌟
Nisan is here—the month of redemption, transformation, and open miracles. ✨ Just as our ancestors broke free from Egypt, this is your time to step into your own personal Exodus. 💭 What miracle are you calling in this month? What is your personal "Egypt"—the place where you feel stuck? And most...
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RAW DMC #3: A conversation with Ariela HaLevi
🌟 Ready to dive into a soul-stirring conversation? Join me for this RAW DMC (raw, real, deep meaningful conversation) with Ariela HaLevi, a healer, teacher, and spiritual mentor who blends Shamanic Kabbalah, somatic practices, quantum energy work, and deep spiritual connection to guide others on...
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What hill are you willing to die on?
What hill are you willing to die on? What about our kids? Sharing some thoughts about this well-known phrase to hopefully getcha thinkin' about it as well. We can't be on automatic pilot anymore. Originally published August 2, 2024. Watch it here:...
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RAW DMC #2: A conversation with Jackie Hafter
Discover the power of resilience and hope in my latest episode of RAW DMC (Raw, real, deep meaningful conversations) with blogger Jackie Hafter. 🌟 Jackie shares her incredible journey through life's toughest challenges, including parenting a child with special needs, overcoming personal loss…
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Surprise at Trader Joe's
My first time trying a "Live" on Facebook - oh man am I old :) - from August 27, 2024 Sometimes it's the little things that can make a difference. Watch the original here: https://www.facebook.com/trulygreatlife/videos/894952786003184 Copyright Truly Great Life LLC All Rights Reserved 👉 Get my...
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Parenting + Choice + Authority
Short, slightly rambling pre-Shabbat message about parenting and what we turn to / tune into. Originally published July 19, 2024. Watch it here: https://www.facebook.com/trulygreatlife/videos/1031439218503315 Copyright Truly Great Life LLC All Rights Reserved 👉 Get my FREE email course: 30 Ways…
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From Trauma to Healing: Jewish Identity After October 7th | RAW DMC with Rena Shoshana
Introducing RAW DMC - raw, real, deep meaningful conversations with people who have faced challenges, taken the road less traveled, embraced risks and made changes without guarantees, while pursing their vision of a truly great life. Today's conversation is with Rena Shoshana Forester, a teacher...
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You Are Like a Tree in the Field - a Tu Bishvat Message
Check out this message of hope and renewal during the winter season, drawing from the Jewish holiday of Tu BiShvat, the New Year of the Trees. We'll explore the metaphor of trees and how it relates to our lives, encouraging us to nurture our inner selves and prepare for the blossoming of new…
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Why The Ten Commandments Matter Today
Why the 10 Commandments Matter Today Think they're too old and irrelevant? Discover why the 10 commandments are more relevant than ever - yes, for you personally. For an easy way to learn them, check out https://youtu.be/k9FiD3hqc3k Originally recorded the day before Shavuot (when Moses received...
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Jewish American Heritage Month and the National Day of Prayer
Originally recorded May 2, 2024 Jewish American Heritage Month - Fun Fact #1: Day of Prayer Did you know May 2nd is the National Day of Prayer? Learn about a Jewish prayer for the United States from the mid 1800s and why it feels relevant and helpful (hopeful?) for the challenges facing the…
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"Get your act together" - helpful or not?
Join me as I spontaneously reflect on the phrase "Get your act together", and share a heartfelt wish for meaningful and joyful celebrations this holiday season. May 2025 be amazing. Copyright Truly Great Life LLC All Rights Reserved 👉 Get my FREE email course: 30 Ways to Happier & Stronger Days…
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30 Ways to Stronger Days: Way #30 - Structures and Surroundings
In this final episode of the series 30 Ways to Happy Stronger Days, I dive into the importance of our surroundings and how they shape our experiences. From the jewelry we wear to the art on our walls, these seemingly small choices can profoundly impact our journey through life's ups and downs. I...
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30 Ways to Stronger Days: Way #29 - Be Your Best (Self)
Welcome back as we near the finish line with Way #29 of the series, 30 Ways to Happy Stronger Days on creating better, stronger days. Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to my heart: being your best self. We all have those moments when we wish we could have handled a situation...
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30 Ways to Stronger Days: Way #28 - the Push, the Pull and Balance
In this Way #28 of 30 Ways to Happy Stronger Days, we're diving into the delicate balance of our character strengths. Ever felt like you're either holding back or going overboard with your strengths? It's all about finding that just right sweet spot, like Goldilocks. We'll explore how underusing…
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30 Ways to Stronger Days: Way #27 - Fear Responses
In this episode of the 30 Ways to Happy Better / Stronger Days series, we're diving into our instinctive responses to fear and threats. Ever heard of fight, flight, freeze, or fawn? These are our natural reactions when we feel threatened, and understanding them can be a game-changer in navigating...
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Response to October 7 - #3
In this third recording in response to October 7, I reflect on the importance of surrounding ourselves with sources of strength—whether it's the people we cherish, the music we listen to, or the symbols we hold dear. I talk a bit about the significance of faith, belief, and the structures that...
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Response to October 7 - #2
In this recording, I open up about the shifts in our world and how they call us to tap into our inner strength and resilience. As we navigate these challenging times, especially with what's unfolding in Israel, I feel drawn to share messages of hope and encouragement. Together, we'll explore how…
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Response to October 7 - #1
As I mentioned in the introduction to this podcast, I decided to keep this recording and the following two in chronological order as they took place in the 30 Ways to Happy Days series I was producing. Depending on when you're reading or listening to this, the world and the situation could look...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #26 - Kindness
Welcome back to the 30 Ways to Happy Days series. We’re diving into Way #26 today, and it’s all about the character strength we all know: kindness. This episode is a gentle reminder of how kindness, whether to ourselves or others, can truly elevate our days. We explore how kindness feels, how it...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #25 - Creativity
Welcome to the 30 Ways to Happy Days series. Today, we're diving into the magic of Way #25 - creativity, a character strength that's within all of us, just waiting to be tapped into. We'll explore how creativity isn't just about art or music, but about original thinking and problem-solving in…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #24 - Curiosity
Welcome to another episode in the 30 Ways to Happy Days series. Today we're diving into Way #24: the powerful character strength of curiosity, where I encourage you to embrace a beginner's mind, to explore with openness, and to find joy in learning something new. We'll reflect on how curiosity…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #23 - Honesty
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're diving into Way #23: Honesty. We'll explore how honesty isn't just a character strength but a vital tool for living authentically. We'll reflect on what honesty truly means, how it aligns with our core values, and the delicate balance of being...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #22 - Zest
In this episode of the 30 Ways to Happy Days series, we're diving into the vibrant world of Zest, which is Way #22. Zest is all about that infectious enthusiasm and energy that makes life feel like an adventure. We'll reflect on where zest fits into our lives and how we can nurture it. Whether...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #21 - Prudence
In this episode of the 30 Ways to Happy Days series, we dive into Way #21 - the often misunderstood character strength of prudence. We'll reflect on how prudence - also known as cautious wisdom - can save us from undesirable outcomes and help us inch closer to our goals. At heart, it's about…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #20 - Leadership
In this episode of the 30 Ways to Happy Days series, we're diving into Way #20 - the character strength of leadership. We explore what leadership truly means beyond the traditional roles and authority figures you may be thinking of. It's also about positively influencing others and organizing...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #19 - Bravery
In this episode of the 30 Ways to Happy Days series, we're diving into Way #19 - the character strength of bravery. We'll explore what it truly means to be brave, how it shows up differently for each of us, and why it's a vital part of living a full and meaningful life. I'll share personal…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #18 - Spirituality
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're diving into Way #18, one of my favorite character strengths: spirituality. I know spirituality can be a loaded topic for many, but let's break it down together. It's all about finding that connection with something greater than ourselves, whether...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #17 - Perspective
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we'll dive into Way #17- the character strength of perspective. We explore how this strength helps us see the big picture, learn from our mistakes, and navigate life's challenges with wisdom and grace. I'll share personal insights and stories, like my own...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #16 - Self Control
Join me for Way #16 of 30 Ways to Happy Days as we explore the often overlooked but incredibly powerful strength of self-control. We dive deep into what it means to harness this character strength, how it can transform our lives, and why it's foundational to achieving our goals. Self-control…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #15 - Gratitude
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're hitting the halfway mark with a deep dive into Way #15 - Gratitude. We all know gratitude's a buzzword, but what does it truly mean? It's not about ignoring life's challenges but finding the good within (or despite!) them. Let's explore seeing the...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #14 - Forgiveness
In this next episode of the series 30 Ways to Happy Days, we dive into Way #14: the powerful character strength of forgiveness. We'll explore how forgiveness can transform our well-being and relationships, lighten our emotional load and bring us closer to our best selves. Learn some of the…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #13 - Teamwork
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're diving into the power of Teamwork, which is Way #13. It's all about connecting, contributing, and finding joy in being part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether you're on a sports team, working on a project, or just supporting your local...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #12 - Love of Learning
Welcome to Way #12 of 30 Ways to Happy Days: Love of Learning! In this episode, we'll explore how this character strength can transform your day, offering not just knowledge but joy and resilience. Whether you loved school or not, there's something in life that ignites your curiosity and passion....
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #11 - Humility
In this Way #11 of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we'll take a good look at the often misunderstood strength of Humility. Join me as we explore what humility truly means and how it can be a powerful tool in our lives. We'll look at how humility isn't about diminishing ourselves but recognizing that...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #10 - Humor
Welcome to another episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days. Today, we're diving into Way #10 - Humor. We're exploring how humor isn't just about cracking jokes or being the life of the party; it's about finding lightness and playfulness in everyday life. We'll chat about how a good laugh can shift your...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #9 - Hope
Join me in this next step of our journey through 30 Ways to Happy Days as we dive into Way #9 - the character strength of Hope. In this episode, I explore how hope isn't just wishful thinking—it's a muscle we can all strengthen to navigate life's challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck or just...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #8 - Fairness
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're diving into the Way #8 - the character strength of fairness. It's a big one! We all know that feeling of being treated unfairly, whether it's at work, in our families, or even in our daily interactions. But what if we flipped the script and saw...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #7 - Appreciation of Beauty, Wonder and Excellence
In this episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we dive into Way #7 - Appreciating Beauty, Wonder and Excellence. We'll explore how recognizing the value in the world around us can transform our relationships and our lives. From the breathtaking wonders of nature to the incredible skills in sports and...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #6 - Critical Thinking
Welcome to another episode of 30 Ways to Happy Days. Today, we're diving into Way #6 - Critical Thinking. It's much more than being analytical, it's about embracing open-mindedness and seeing the world from all angles. We'll explore how this character strength can enhance not only your personal...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #5 - Perseverence
In Way #5 of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we dive into the powerful character strength of perseverance. It's not just about getting things done; it's about sticking with it, overcoming obstacles, and seeing things through the long haul. We'll explore how perseverance plays a role in every aspect of our...
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #4 - Social Intelligence
In this Way #4 of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we're diving into the power of social intelligence. We'll explore how understanding our own emotions and those of others can lead to deeper connections and happier days. Social intelligence isn't just about knowing yourself; it's about tuning into the…
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30 Ways to Happy Days: Way #3 - Love
In this Way #3 of 30 Ways to Happy Days, we dive into the character strength of love. Learn about love in its many forms—romantic, familial, friendship, and universal. We'll explore how to both give and receive love, emphasizing the importance of balance. Reflect on your own relationships and...
About this show
Wondering how to navigate this wild world? Join me in exploring how to answer this question through the lens of Jewish wisdom, positive psychology, personal experiences and a whole lot of optimism (not Pollyanish or toxic!) so you can create a life that's not just good, but truly great. Each episode will help you build your toolkit for handling the twists and turns of this wonderful, wacky life with bits of insight, perspective, practical tips, and normalizing and inspiring stories. If not now, when? Let's make the most of our time here!
Hosted by
Ilana Ivan
Categories