Inspire Me Forward

Welcome to Season 7 of Inspire Me ForwardPositive Foundations for when Life Throws a Time Shift There are times in our lives when our relationship with time changes. Sometimes it is a slow burn, sometimes a U-turn. Your perspective of time might evolve into a space where you value it more, perhaps it speeds up, or maybe it slows down. However you are affected, life does throw time shifts, and in those moments, we are called to look for positive foundations. Resources that help us hold our bearings and tend to our resiliency. Helping us stay grounded and not float away altogether.   This season, we will speak with folks who have experienced those time shifts and stayed upright through the dynamic force, the change, and the landing. We will discuss what kept them standing. What did they hold onto so they could settle into that new time perspective with a gentle heart and feet firmly on the ground? ~*~  In this, episode 49, we speak with Terra Mitchell of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.We had a great and insightful conversation. Terra shared where she was and where she is now with grace and compassion. What a beautiful and inspiring journey you are on. So much wisdom shared. I will let you, dear reader, find the wisdom that resonates with you. Thank you, Terra, for the gift of your time. You can find Terra and her work now at:  www.911yourself.comShe can also be found on FB at 911yourself and Instagram at @911yourself_Terra shares a few books that she found useful on her journey.Three Feet from Gold by Napoleon HellYou Are the Medicine by Asha Frost ~*~Thank you for listening to Inspire Me Forward. Please consider Sharing It Forward so the ripples of good may spread far and wide. Stay well, stay connected, stay inspiredLynda J Watson

Welcome to Season 7 of Inspire Me ForwardPositive Foundations for when Life throws a Time Shift There are times in our lives when our relationship with time changes. Sometimes it is a slow burn, sometimes a U-turn. Your perspective of time might evolve into a space where you value it more, perhaps it speeds up, or maybe it slows down. However you are affected, life does throw time shifts, and in those moments, we are called to look for positive foundations. Resources that help us hold our bearings and tend to our resiliency. Helping us stay grounded and not float away altogether.  This season, we will speak with folks who have experienced those time shifts and stayed upright through the dynamic force, the change, and the landing. We will discuss what kept them standing. What did they hold onto so they could settle into that new time perspective with a gentle heart and feet firmly on the ground?~*~  In this episode, we speak with Shirley Bhutto of New Hampshire, USAWhat a beautifully real conversation we had. Time flowed with many wisdom-filled mic drop moments; moments of shifts and perspective expansion. I will leave you, dear listener, to sit with us for a while and find your own wisdom within our conversation. Thank you, Shirley, for the gift of your time. You can find Shirley’s awesome podcast here:https://littlebylittlepeacebypeace.buzzsprout.comIt can also be found on all podcast streaming apps.You can contact Shirley at the Fan Mail section on her BuzzSprout page. She can be found on Instagram and TikTok ~ @peacebypeace24 ~*~ Thank you for listening to Inspire Me Forward. Please consider Sharing It Forward so the ripples of good may spread far and wide.  Stay well, stay connected, stay inspiredLynda J Watson

Welcome to Season 7 of Inspire Me ForwardPositive Foundations for when Life throws a Time Shift There are times in our lives when our relationship with time changes. Sometimes it is a slow burn, sometimes a U-turn. Your perspective of time might evolve into a space where you value it more, perhaps it speeds up, or maybe it slows down. However you are affected, life does throw time shifts, and in those moments, we are called to look for positive foundations. Resources that help us hold our bearings and tend to our resiliency. Helping us stay grounded and not float away altogether. This season, we will speak with folks who have experienced those time shifts and stayed upright through the dynamic force, the change, and the landing. We will discuss what kept them standing. What did they hold onto so they could settle into that new time perspective with a gentle heart and feet firmly on the ground? In this episode we speak with Japji (Jessie) Kaur of Atma Things.  What a rich, raw, and beautifully real conversation we had. Time flowed like waves on the shore; there were so many moments of deep authentic lifing. I will leave you, dear listener, to sit with us for a while and find your own wisdom within our conversation. Thank you, Japji for the gift of your time. You can find more about Japji at: https://www.atmathings.com/aboutOr on IG: atma_things I quoted an article that shared some points on time, entitled How Time Works. You can find it here. Thank you for listening to Inspire Me Forward. Please consider Sharing It Forward so the ripples of good may spread far and wide. Stay well, stay connected, stay inspiredLynda J Watson

Welcome to Season 7 of Inspire Me ForwardPositive Foundations for when Life throws a Time Shift  There are times in our lives when our relationship with time changes. Sometimes it is a slow burn, sometimes a U-turn. Your perspective of time might evolve into a space where you value it more, perhaps it speeds up, or maybe it slows down. However you are affected, life does throw time shifts, and in those moments, we are called to look for positive foundations. Resources that help us hold our bearings and tend to our resiliency. Helping us stay grounded and not float away altogether.   This season, we will speak with folks who have experienced those time shifts and stayed upright through the dynamic force, the change, and the landing. We will discuss what kept them standing. What did they hold onto so they could settle into that new time perspective with a gentle heart and feet firmly on the ground?  In this episode (the first of Season 7 ~ our 46th conversation), we speak with Anita La Selva of The Unbridled Theatre Collective.What a rich, raw, and beautifully real conversation we had. Time flowed like waves on the shore; there were moments of deep emotion and authentic life. I will leave you, dear listener, to sit with us for a while and find your own wisdom within this episode. Thank you, Anita, for sharing your time and journey with us. Here is Anita’s story that she spoke of, which was printed in Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories Sharing the Wisdom of the Horsehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10als.html Anita’s play (that she speaks of here), 12 Litres 8800 Steps begins May 1st and runs to May 17th at the Factory Theatre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.You can find out more and get tickets here.I quoted an article that shared some points on time, entitled How Time Works. You can find it here. Thank you for listening to Inspire Me Forward. Please consider Sharing It Forward so the ripples of good may spread far and wide.  Stay well, stay connected, stay inspiredLynda J Watson

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me ForwardOur next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Kate Neligan from the Central Coast area of California, USA for joining me in this sacred space. It was such an inspiring and profound conversation. One might say it was: timeless. I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Kate was one of our illustrious authors in our 8th Edition of Equine LeadershipHere story: THE AWE OF HORSESCatalyzing the Great Awakening My favourite quote is her opening paragraph:“Horses remind us of who we can be. They require presence, evoke awe, celebrate authenticity, and help us to awaken to our true nature. Just being and breathing with them can help us to reset the nervous system and to feel unconditionally loved and accepted.”A bit of info on Kate:Kate Neligan is an Equine-Partnered Life/Business Coach who supports her clients' intuition, emotional intelligence, and empowered leadership both virtually and in-person with horses and goats. Kate left her VP of Marketing career at a movie studio to pursue her calling for the transformation that happens within the human-animal bond. She brings her Master's degree in Spiritual Psychology and numerous trainings in various healing modalities to her 15 years as a coach. Kate is passionate about helping women to thrive and is a best-selling author with stories in the books The Power of Being a Woman and Women Will Save the World. She is also an Animal Communicator & Healer and is published in the books Animals and Nature by Common Sentience. Kate is a motivational speaker with a TEDx talk on perfectionism. The Awakening With Equines certification program and horse wisdom card deck she created is for new or next-level equine-partnered coaches who are trailblazing new paths with humans and horses. Thank you, Kate for sharing your stories, time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.Here are some of Kate’s links:Website: www.kateneligan.comAWE card deck: https://www.kateneligan.com/carddeck IG: @KateNeliganEquineCoachFB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/awakeningwithequines ~*~Join us at:Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadership  OR IG @equineleadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca    Equine Leadership Volume 11 Previews https://www.equineleadership.ca/elvolume11.html Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories is available online. Our last volume is now available on Amazon. Next Volume: early 2026 https://www.equineleadership.ca/elpublication.html If you have enjoyed this or other episodes of Inspire Me Forward, please consider a donation to assist with the cost of creating these inspiring conversations. https://www.equineleadership.ca/donateel.html    

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me Forward Our next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) Is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Kathy Moffat of Rideau Breeze Stables and Wellness Center in Merrickville, Ontario, Canada, for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you. Kathy authored for Equine Leadership in our 9th volume.The following is a link to that story:Four Horses Two Women, A Story of Connectionhttps://www.equineleadership.ca/9theditionkm.html  Thank you, Kathie for sharing your time, wisdom, and your herd with us. With the utmost of gratitude.~*~Kathy and all she does with her herd can be found at:https://rideaubreezestablesandwellnesscentre.com/ ~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca  Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories is available online and our last volume is now available on Amazon (as will the next one). https://www.equineleadership.ca/elpublication.html  If you have enjoyed this or other episodes of Inspire Me Forward, please consider a donation to assist with the cost of creating these inspiring conversations. https://www.equineleadership.ca/donateel.html 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me Forward Our next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Miichaela Slade from Somerset, UK, for joining me in this sacred space. It was such an inspiring and profound conversation. One might say it was: timeless. I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Michaela was one of our illustrious authors in our 10th Anniversary Edition of Equine Leadership The Felt Sense of Connection with HorsesQuote: “I’m young and life feels upside down and inside out.  It seems like it has always felt this way, which endures the question, what is the point? Everything hurts! What is it all about?’ …. This. This is what it’s all about. Here. Now. The timeless continuum of Now is shared with this beautiful being of presence and stillness. I’m here: in my legs, arms, hands, feet, breath, heart, and soul. A sense of rhythm enters my being like a slow, deep pulse that emanates from the earth. My lungs move slowly and deeply, aligning with this rhythm. I feel him next to me, sharing space with me and my presence; guiding me into his rhythm, the rhythm of nature.”https://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10ms.html  Thank you, Michaela for sharing your stories, time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.Here is Michaela’s link to her website:www.theheardtherapy.com ~*~Join us at:Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadership  OR IG @equineleadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca    Equine Leadership Volume 11 Previews https://www.equineleadership.ca/elvolume11.html Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories is available online and our last volume is now available on Amazon (as will the next one). https://www.equineleadership.ca/elpublication.html If you have enjoyed this or other episodes of Inspire Me Forward, please consider a donation to assist with the cost of creating these inspiring conversations.  https://www.equineleadership.ca/donateel.html 

Our next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest, as well as the horses. Thank you, Stephanie Sawtelle from Edinboro, Pennsylvania, USA, for joining me in this sacred space. It was such an inspiring and profound conversation. One might say it was timeless. I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Stephanie was one of our illustrious authors in our 10th Anniversary Edition of Equine LeadershipHow Time WorksAs Learned Through a Lifetime with my Horse“Time is not one thing; it does not work in only one direction or at one pace, but it is undeniably one of the great structures by which we can define, experience, and create our existence, including our connection with each other.”https://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10ss.html  Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your stories, time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.Here are Stephanie’s links:www.StephanieSawtelle.com www.facebook.com/share/19wkykoAbZ/www.instagram.com/stillpoint_farmasea?igsh=MXhkbXk4djdmbHdqZA== ~*~ Join us at:Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadership  OR IG @equineleadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca    Equine Leadership Volume 11 Previews https://www.equineleadership.ca/elvolume11.html  Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories is available online, and our last volume is now available on Amazon (as will the next one). https://www.equineleadership.ca/elpublication.html If you have enjoyed this or other episodes of Inspire Me Forward, please consider a donation to assist with the cost of creating these inspiring conversations. https://www.equineleadership.ca/donateel.html      

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me ForwardOur next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest, as well as the horses. Thank you, Kerri Lake from Half Moon Bay, California, for joining me in this sacred space. It was such an inspiring and profound conversation. I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Kerri has been an alumni author with Equine Leadership since its 6th volume (we are on 11 now)The following are links to her pieces and the words from each story that we wove through our conversation. 6th volume – A Culture of the Heart, Include Yourself in the Harmony of ConnectionEmbodied Harmonyhttps://www.equineleadership.ca/6theditionkl.html 7th volume – Non-Linear Communication, Horses Remind Us of our Innate Relationship with LifeEmotional Weatherhttps://www.equineleadership.ca/7theditionkl.html Upcoming 11th volume – Relational Intelligence, Horses are Masters of Embodied IntellectEmbodied Intellecthttps://www.equineleadership.ca/elvolume11.html Thank you, Kerri for sharing your stories, time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.More on Kerri and her amazing work can be found here:  www.generateharmony.com/blogwww.compassconversations.comwww.intuitivelearningfoundation.orgwww.substack.com/@kerrilakewww.facebook.com/kerrilake1http://www.courses.kerrilake.com www.amazon.com/author/kerrilake~*~ Join us at:Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadership  OR IG @equineleadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca    Equine Leadership Volume 11 Previews https://www.equineleadership.ca/elvolume11.html Equine Leadership: A Collection of Short Stories is available online and our last volume is now available on Amazon (as will the next one). https://www.equineleadership.ca/elpublication.html  Dara McAnulty, author of Diary of a Young NaturalistI shared a quote of Dara’s in our conversation: “I’m still pretty certain we can fix this crisis, but if we solve it because of fear and we go back to our original ways, the problems that we thought we dealt with reappear, and we’re back in the same boat in about a hundred years, basically. But if we solve the problems because of wonder, because of joy, because we care, that’s a lot more permanent.” https://emergencemagazine.org/conversation/finding-joy-in-the-unknown/ 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me ForwardOur next episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Georgie McBurney from Dorchester, UK for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Georgie has been an alumni author with Equine Leadership since its third volume (we are on 11 now)The following are links to her pieces and the quotes we shared:3rd volume – Equine ReWilding (co-authored)  Quote: When we are with equines, particularly outside in nature, we are reminded of our own connectivity to our external and inner worlds. This allows our wild self to come to the fore. Sometimes to strengthen our connection, we need to unlearn what we have learnt, to discover what we already know - we call this Equine ReWilding.  https://www.equineleadership.ca/thirdeditiongmla.html 5th volume -  Freeing the Inner Child  Quote: In essence the horse links us back to our ancient ancestor’s way of well being, a way of being in connection with ourselves, each other and with our planet. https://www.equineleadership.ca/fiftheditiongm.html 10th  volume - The Three Grey Ponies, A Story Written in the Stars  Quote: Each pony has encouraged healing, which has allowed me to know myself fully. An inward journey discovering chaos and order, neither bad nor good, but like sides of the same coin.https://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10gm.html  Thank you, Georgie for sharing your time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude. Here is Georgie’s website, work we spoke of, and contact info:https://georginamcburney.com/  (contact info available here)https://forestedgetherapy.co.uk/  (a collaborative therapy Georgie is a part of)~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me ForwardOur fourth episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) Is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Greta Matos from Patagonia, Chile for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Greta is an alumni author with Equine Leadership. The following are links to stories she has shared with us over the years. As Nature Intendedhttps://www.equineleadership.ca/7theditiongm.htmlThe Whisper of Reverencehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/8theditiongm.htmlReawakening Our Peaceful Naturehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/9theditiongm.html Here is a bit more about Greta and links to her essence that she shares: Greta is deeply committed to a life of intentional relationship with Earth, Horse and Soul. With her family and herd, she composes a life in the heart of Patagonia, where she is devoted to soulful relationships with human and non-human kin. Her life practice nurtures spaces where the wild essence of the horse, human and earth can encounter their shared language. Collaborating with horse herds at liberty, she works with folks longing to deepen their natural capacity to flow and evolve authentically with all that exists within the unknown. She is a writer, a mother, a soul friend and a dedicated spirit.  Quila Quina - https://quilaquina.com/my-workInstragram - @curakuda / @wanderwithgretaContact - [email protected] you, Greta for sharing your time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipOr visit our website:  www.equineleadership.ca 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me Forward Our third episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as her herd. Thank you, Kelly Jones of Unbridled Connection in Colorado, USA for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you. Kelly is an alumni author with Equine Leadership. The following are links to stories she has shared with us over the years.  Equine Leadership Publications6th Volume Allowing and Healing with Horses https://www.equineleadership.ca/6theditionkj.html 9th VolumeSimplification and Lovehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/9theditionkmj.html 10th VolumeFrom Doing and Beinghttps://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10kj.html   Here are some links to learn more about or contact Kelly:Web Sites:https://www.unbridledconnection.com/ https://www.equisomatic.com/home Links: Somatic Experiencing International, Somatic Experiencing Practitionerhttps://directory.traumahealing.org/practitioner/kelly-jones/ Peer Support Professional https://cmwn.org/Natural Lifemanship Institute https://naturallifemanship.com/     Kelly’s Book:Unbridled Connection: Soul Discovery Through Nature & Horses https://bookstore.weeva.com/products/unbridled-connection-soul-discovery-through-nature-horses Thank you, Kelly, for sharing your time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude. ~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me Forward Our second episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) Is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Debbie La-Haye of Horses Helping People in Buckinghamshire, UK, for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much, and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you. Debbie is an alumni author with Equine Leadership. The following are links to stories she has shared with us over the years.  THE ULTIMATE IN ‘LESS is MORE’How hanging out with the herd can change our liveshttps://www.equineleadership.ca/fiftheditiondlh.html Treasure Hunthttps://www.equineleadership.ca/9theditiondlh.htmlThe Herd – our welcome feature in our 10th Anniversary volumehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10featuredlh.html   Debbie spoke of her profound time in the Lake District with the Fell herds. Here is a link to that group.Learning Wild courses https://learningwilduk.wixsite.com/learningwild Fell Pony Heritage Trust - https://www.fpht.co.uk/ Debbie can be contacted via her website: https://horseshelpingpeople.co.uk/ Thank you, Debbie for sharing your time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude. ~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca 

Inspire Me EquineA Collaboration of Equine Leadership and Inspire Me ForwardOur first episode of Inspire Me Equine (Season 6 of Inspire Me Forward) Is rich and full of wisdom from our guest as well as the horses. Thank you, Judy Brightman of Mindful Horse, Mindful Leader in Tamsworth, NSW, Australia, for joining me in this sacred space. We spoke of so much and I will let you, dear listener, find the wisdom that was meant for you.Judy is an alumni author with Equine Leadership. The following are links to stories she has shared with us over the years. Calmness, Connection, and CompassionOne Breath at a Timehttps://www.equineleadership.ca/7theditionjb.html The Power of The PauseThree Pony Taleshttps://www.equineleadership.ca/8theditionjb.htmlThe Journey from Separation to ConnecitonPaths to Wholeness Guided by Horseshttps://www.equineleadership.ca/volume10jb.htmlThere are multiple modalities mentioned in our conversation. Do connect if you wish to learn more about any of them Judy can be contacted via her website: https://www.mindfulhorsemindfulleader.com/Thank you, Judy for sharing your time, wisdom, and knowledge with us. With the utmost of gratitude.~*~Join us on FB at: Inspire Me Forward: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218273445447262Equine Leadership: https://www.facebook.com/EquineLeadershipWebsite: www.equineleadership.ca 

Season Five, Episode 35There is No HOW with Pat Hutchinson A perfect soul conversation was had. We laughed, explored, shared, and questioned. We delved into the unknown, and investigated each of our beliefs along the way. From defining joy, to looking into the dark places and turning on the light switch. From considering clarity versus sticky residue, and sharing expectations, judgments, and surrendering. We dove into the statement: There is No HOW.  I do hope you find the wisdom, clarity, presence, and some guidance in the words that Pat and I shared in the rabbit hole.    Thank you, Pat, what a joyful and deep conversation and thank you for your calm and nurturing presence.  Pat can be contacted at:  [email protected]  ~*~  I mention a short video about the wisdom and lessons in Alice in Wonderland. Head down the rabbit hole if you wish. Here is the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mdx8e-8SBuM  From my heart to yours,  Stay well, Stay Connected, Stay Inspired Lynda J Watson Music credit: FreeSound  ~ Gustavo_Alivero

Season Five, Episode 34Witnessing and Withing with Chelsea HannWhat a magical soul conversation. We went down the rabbit hole, into the unknown, and found magic and grace along the way. I hope you find the wisdom, softness, and liminality that we found in our words and in between them. Below are some references for names, books mentioned and the poem that Chelsea shared with us. Thank you Chelsea, what a beautiful and rich conversation. I look forward to picking it up again sometime and see where we go. From my heart to yours. Chelsea can be contacted at:  [email protected] ~*~ Stephen Gonzalez Montserro https://www.stevengonzalezm.com/abouthttps://mit-serc.pubpub.org/pub/the-cloud-is-material/release/1Thomas Kinghttps://www.cbc.ca/radio/ideas/the-2003-cbc-massey-lectures-the-truth-about-stories-a-native-narrative-1.2946870https://houseofanansi.com/products/the-truth-about-stories?srsltid=AfmBOopS5CRxtOs-XcQxUzpVE-Jw0c12fhCmCOSR57Tr1GdatHnPlPkbCraig Foster https://seachangeproject.com/projects/books/amphibious-soul/Some Introductory Reading on Liminalityhttp://borderpoetics.wikidot.com/liminalityhttps://indeterminacy.ac.uk/dictionary/liminality/From my heart to yours, Stay well, Stay Connected, Stay InspiredLynda J WatsonMusic credit: FreeSound  ~ Gustavo_Alivero

This was the second of two panel discussions we are hosting on Inspire Me Forward entitled: The Life of DeathLife and Death, A Celebration of Life, A Living Funeral, The Cycle of Life, Transitioning or Crossing Over. They all include two things; the living and those that have passed or are passing. Yet, we tend to only speak of the living part. The dying part has been put in a corner for far too long. So, WE are going to talk about it all. The Life of Death. What space does each hold in that cycle of life? How do we hold space for the living and the dying? How do we process it all? I offer such deep gratitude for our panel: Claire Misson and Gabriela Ostendorfer. Thank you so Louise Gallegher for doing her best to join us but technology had other thoughts. Thank you all.Each panelist shared their stories with a deep love and authenticity. The learnings in the endings offer us all a chance to live with more heart and honesty.    I will leave you to find your inspiration within the words and the heart of all that was said.From my heart to yours, Lynda

This was the first of two panel discussion we are hosting on Inspire Me Forward entitled: The Life of DeathLife and Death, A Celebration of Life, A Living Funeral, The Cycle of Life, Transitioning or Crossing Over. They all include two things. The living and those that have passed or are passing. Yet, we tend to only speak of the living part. The dying part has been put in a corner for far too long. So, WE are going to talk about it all. The Life of Death. What space do each hold in that cycle of life? How do we hold space for the living and the dying? How do we process it all? I offer such deep gratitude for our panel: Pat Hutchinson, Tina Turner, and Pamela L. Maynard, PhD. So much wisdom and heart in the stories told and the experience shared.I will leave you, dear ones, to find your own inspiration within the words and the heart of all that was said.Here is contact information for our panelists:Pamela L. Maynard, PhD: Sacred End of Life Care for Horses, Cats, Dogs, and other SoulMate Animals   https://www.facebook.com/groups/253913606983599Pat Hutchinson: [email protected] Tina Turner: www.wildlearning.caI shared a piece at the beginning of the episode and leave it here for you.The Life of DeathSimilar to our lived experience, dying is different for all.Some travel quickly with goodbyes having to be shared across realms.  Some are afforded time. Moments to embrace loved ones and travel slowly to that new world.The idea of leaving this world holds as many different levels of emotion in it as humans that face it.The continuum of emotion from fear to love is vast and well-travelled.With all that variance, there is one constant. The living.Whether the moment one crosses over is spent alone or with loved ones around there is always an element of living involved in dying.For them the continuum of emotions is vast and infinite as well. From fear to sadness to shame to anger to love. And every feeling in between. Each has a possibility of standing in the space of the loss of a loved one. For those who have passed and those who live on, and for the feelings that find space for expression, At the bottom of that experience, love is found. Rooted in our deepest hearts and waiting in our patient souls. We find the bond that connects us to our dear one.We send them on their journeys across time and space with a loving heart. The life of death is a sacred road. Travel well sweet souls. Lynda J Watson

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #31, The Support We Offer our Dogs with Alyssa Giles from Utah, USA. What ana fascinating conversation we had.  Alyssa and I delved into a discussion about our beloved family members, our dogs. We spoke about Affective Behaviour and Affective Dog Behaviour. We looked at the science behind our dog's emotions and how we can enhance our connection with them. We talked about what is behind that connection and how it builds on their feelings of safety, reduces their stress, and helps meet their needs. So much wisdom, and science in Alyssa's repertoire.  As is so important in that relationship, we touched on us, the humans who so love their dogs. What we can learn from being there for our dogs and supporting them better.Thank you, Alyssa, for sharing your knowledge and your heart. Our beloved canine family members thank you. Here are some of the folks and teachings We also talked we spoke of, as well as Alyssa's website.Alyssa’s website, Beyond Behavior LLC:  https://www.thinkbeyondbehavior.com/Circle of Security model:  https://www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/circle-of-security-model/what-is-the-circle-of-security/ Affective Neuroscience Theory and Personality: An Updatehttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7219919/ Affective Dog Behavior https://www.affectivedog.com/  Dr Dan Siegel https://drdansiegel.com/

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #30, Daring to be Wise. My guest, Louise Gallagher from Calgary, Alberta, Canada joined me for a deeply enriching and inspirational conversation.       In this episode Louise and I take a deep dive into ‘aging’. Or should I say ‘becoming’? Louise shares how her path brought her to create this movement of inspiring women to move through their later years with boldness, brightness, and bravery. We spoke of society’s view of aging in today’s world and the wisdom we all hold within.  We celebrate the 30th episode of Inspire Me Forward with so so much wisdom. I truly am surprised by how much wisdom we packed into one hour. But we did. I will leave it to you, dear listener, to extrapolate the wisdom that your beautiful soul is called to and embrace it will all your heart.  Thank you, Louise, for your shining light. Thank you for your energy and truth. You truly are an inspiration. Louise’s passionate work can be found at:Louise’s websitehttps://dareboldly.com/ She Dares FB Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1472939980316752The Rewrite Journeyhttps://louisegallagher.ca/rewrite/  Book recommendation:Soul of a Woman by Isabel Allendehttps://www.amazon.ca/Soul-Woman-Isabel-Allende/dp/0593355628 Louise shared a story of receiving from the quite wise, Max. Here is the story of another gift she received from Ian:https://dareboldly.com/2021/01/23/the-gift/ 

And just like that Episode #29 of Inspire Me Forward is in the books. With myself as host and guest I took some time to reflect on what The Book of Realizations is and what it holds. Thank you to to those that shared questions to assist in this episode having form and function. This book is:A collection of thirty personal realizations gathered and supported by wisdom from the equine herd, nature and her intelligence, my fellow human travelers, and my own inner well of wisdom. They are articulated from the heart with a sense of raw authenticity and from a space of genuine positivity. One might say it is a set of authentic tools that will offer support on the journey forward and into the present moment. This book is about nature and her intelligence that is within and around us all. We have a reciprocal connection to everything and everyone. That is our nature. That is our home. This collection of guiding insights is a handbook to humanity's journey home. One of my favourite passages:"There is space within each change we make and each realization we come to. It is like the pause between breaths or the moment between ebb and flow. We find a space in the presence of transformation and change, as well as between a yes and a no. Those are the spaces of possibilities where creative ideas are just out of sight and realizations are waiting to be found. I wish for you to invite curiousity into those moments, an inquisitiveness that calls in your own knowing and wisdom. Each realization you come to is there for you to navigate this journey through life with greater ease and deeper understanding. All that you need to know is within you. You simply need to offer that knowing a door to walk through and a gentle spot to land. This human journey can be filled with the greatest love and the brightest beacons to carry us along our path. We are offered this space with every breath and heartbeat, with every moment of movement and every minute of stillness. This is the magical space in between. All one needs to do is breathe in ~ hold ~ breathe out ~ hold, to find it. It is there, between the in and the out. Make that space sacred as well. That is what I wish for you, for all of us."From Realization #30 Make it ALL SacredLinkswww.equineleadership.ca  Here you can find details on the book and card deck including how to order them as well as full articles and editions of Equine Leadership magazine.www.lyndajwatson.ca Details on ordering Short Stories for a Long Life and World SanctuaryErin Morgenstern's The Starless Sea and The Night Circushttps://erinmorgenstern.com/the-starl...My first favourite book:  Hailstones and Halibut Boneshttps://www.amazon.ca/Hailstones-Hali...

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #28, Exploring the Space in Between and Within. My guest, Kim Hallin from Ravenel, South Carolina, USA joined me for an  organic discussion on boundaries, Kim’s area of expertise. This isn’t Kim’s first conversation with Inspire Me Forward. She was our second guest. You can hear Kim’s story at: https://youtu.be/lRu2YgB15eM?si=X4_yxr4SezDJj6xc     In this episode Kim shares her boundary journey with us and how one of her horses showed her so much about creating her own space with a sense of self worth.  Such important wisdom in our conversation. We spoke about the naturalness of boundaries and why they are just so very important to our well-being in all ways.  We also touched on how society and our upbringing suggests we ignore those boundaries in a myriad of ways.  We spoke of how exploring the space of the self helps us explore and define the space in between. And of course, we spoke of how the horses are just brilliant at showing us how to set healthy and compassionate boundaries.  Thank you Kim Hallin for joining us at Inspire Me Forward once again. We love having you. You always bring such grounding wisdom and your innovative work with boundaries is such an important piece of all of our journeys.  You can find more about Kim’s boundary tools and online course at: www.kimhallin.com  Kim and I also saved a few minutes to speak about our books.Kim’s book:  Horse Wisdom, Life Lessons for Humanity can be found at: https://www.amazon.ca/Horse-Wisdom-Life-Lessons-Humanity/dp/1955346135  And My new book (available on May 31,2024): The Book of Realizations, Guiding Insights from the Horses, Nature, Humanity and Within. It will be available on Amazon at that time. I’ll add a link here when the time comes. This episode will also be available on Apple and Spotify.

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #27 Surviving 911. My guest, Joan Marie Gjos from Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, Canada joined me for a pertinent conversation full of life’s realities from her journey in the Emergency Services sector. Joan Marie shared her work as a paramedic and as a 911 operator and shared her signs of stress and tools for healing.    We can be found on Apple and Spotify and YouTube.Forty-one years in the sector took Joan Marie through many ups and downs. After seeking therapy with the support of her manager and those around her, she found herself diagnosed with PTSD. Along with a number of factors she eventually decided to leave the field.  She now works in the field with a herd of horses to support others in their journeys through stress and healing. So much wisdom in our conversation. Here are a few that have stuck with me: ·        Putting something ‘on the shelf’ is not a useful thing. ·        Supports help you heal.·        It is important to feel the feelings.  ·        Horses can assist us in recognizing our stressors and guide us to create a healing path. Thank you Joan Marie for your service as well as for sharing your journey, and your healing path with us all.  Joan Marie’s contact information is listed below. __________________________________________Here are some resources we spoke of during our conversation. Roadayo Ranchhttps://www.facebook.com/roadayo.ranch.3?mibextid=ZbWKwL  Email: [email protected]  Boots of the Ground – Peer Support for First Respondershttps://www.bootsontheground.ca/  North of 9https://www.northof9bodywork.ca/  If you are interested in an Equine Facilitated Learning facilitator in your area (Canada) this is a great place to start.  https://horsespiritconnections.com/feel-certified-facilitators/ 

As a bonus episode of Inspire Me Forward we hosted our 3rd ever: 3 Humans~6 Questions~No Agenda dialogue. And it was as profound as our first two which we hosted four years ago (Past dialogues can be found HERE). It is always remarkable when we come together with no agenda, no objectives and simply a willingness to dance in the unknown with open hearts. Join myself along with Judy Brightman (Australia) and Kate Neligan (USA) as we delve into the questions, we each brought to the circle. Judy Brightman of: https://www.mindfulhorsemindfulleader.com Kate Neligan of: https://www.kateneligan.com/ And of course myself: www.equineleadership.ca 

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #26 Creating Joy Daily. My guest, Pamela L. Maynard, PhD from North Dakota joined me for an evolving conversation full of life’s realities and wisdom for a healthy future. Nuggets of insight were brought forward that we would all do well to sit with. Pamela shared her journey through life and her path to a diagnosis of complex PTSD. This came as a relief as she had been searching for an answer all her life, where she belonged. Now she had something to work with and heal from. We spoke of her journey through healing thus far in her life. How she worked at breaking old patterns and moved away from generational expectations. She found her own prayer and is living a full life sharing her wisdom with others. Pamela spoke so fondly of how the horses have been her support and her community. We wrapped it all up with a discussion on joy and how we create it in our lives. There is so much wisdom in this hour we had together. I know you will find your nuggets of wisdom in the conversation. Here are a few that rang true for me:·        Instead of looking for the grandiose we should be looking for the ‘glimpses’. The little moments that make your heart smile.·        Faith and fear cannot co-exist. We spoke of joy and that ties into the space in faith. Joy and fear cannot co-exist in the same space at the same time. ·        Take time to pick the berries.  In the end we left you with a few reflective questions:How are you finding your prayer?What makes your heart smile?How do we choose faith over fear? Thank you Pamela for sharing your journey and your prayer with us all. _________________________________Resources and Contact info:Beyond Horse Training-Discover a New Path with Purpose for You & Your Horsehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/153909321335651Facebook business page: Conscious Hoofbeathttps://www.facebook.com/NewPathWithPurposePamela’s email:[email protected] Judith Roche Poetryhttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=judith+roche&i=stripbooks&crid=1H9L54JFRDULZ&sprefix=judith+roche%2Cstripbooks%2C174&ref=nb_sb_nossPamela’s book recommendation:The Heart of the Horse by Shelley Groom Trevorhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6WYMN5W/ 

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #25 The Soft Magic of Stories. My guest, Liz Lane from Wales joined me for an organic discussion on stories, softening, and the magic of life. It was chalked full of wit, wonder, and wisdom. And many reflective questions arose that we would all do well to sit with. Liz shared her journey and life with her horses on the wild hills of Wales.  She shared her travels and thirst for adventure. Out of that came question 1: What is it that gets me up in the morning? We then dove into talking about stories, those we are told and by whom, those that are handed down to us, those we tell ourselves, and those we have within us. We spoke about how all of those stories shape our individual lives. Next question: What is your story of softening? (I think this one is my favourite.)Questions came from that question:Who are you?What is it that you are doing with this one precious life?How do you show up and what do you bring when you do show up?Where does the story expand from there?That last question got us exploring the edges of our lives. Being with others and the comfort and safety that provides as well as standing at the edge of our communities and looking into the unknown, the possibilities.  We spoke about the, “co-creation of home beyond a familiar contained life.”We spoke about “being held by life”. We then went to the horses, figuratively, and explored their magic that is most often beyond words. Another question then popped in, where is the story of the horse held?  I know I will sit with that one for a while. Liz offered some unique insight into the journey of the horse and the relationship we, humanity, have with them.  Summing it up, we must leave space for magic in our lives. So very much wisdom between all of the reflective questions. Get yourself a tea and sit with our conversation for a while. It will definitely have you considering your journey and Who you Are. Thank you, Liz, for a most powerful and heart-expanding discussion. Thank you for joining me in our Inspire Me Forward circle and sharing your wit, wisdom, and wonder. With the utmost gratitude for our conversation and your kind and gentle heart that offers the world a field of freedom to roam in. Keep sharing stories for, “the only thing you can change the world with is stories.” Anonymous__Resources:The Gene Keys by Richard Rudd,  https://genekeys.com/books/ Liz’s Book Recommendations. Books where you can lose yourself as well as find yourself. Erin Morgenstern – The Night Circus and The Starless Seahttps://www.amazon.ca/Starless-Sea-Novel-Erin-Morgenstern/dp/038554121X

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #24 is the first of our Years Together conversations. My guests, Rosanne Morphy of Saskatchewan and Phoenix Berry of Ontario joined in a tender discussion from each of their generational perspectives. Rosanne is from the Baby Boomer generation and Phoenix is from Gen Z.  We have moved into Season 3 of Inspire Me Forward with the title: Share YOUR Story. Staying open to receiving the stories that wish to be told.  Sharing journeys of life, love, and everything in between.  Years Together offers a deep sense of connection, profound wisdom of the past, and a promise for the future in the here and now.  Instead of the common phrase of people being years apart, we wanted to bring generations together and have an intergenerational shared discussion. To talk about that which we have in common and that which is different. How we were brought up and how we grew up. What we know and what we have yet to learn. And the wisdom we have found along the way.  We have entitled this episode: Generations Weaving Reflections Rosanne (65) and Phoenix (22) shared their journeys through life thus far and each expressed the joys and the trials they went through growing up. This led us into a discussion of how they both found ways to cope with any challenges they faced. We spoke of family traditions steeped in generations past and how those evolved with the passage of time. Each finding their own way to make changes in those traditions while always honouring those we hold close.  Both of my guests brought a question for each other. Phoenix posed the question: If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be and why?Rosanne posed the question: What was one thing as a child/teen that you wanted to hear that would have made a significant impact on you?Their answers will touch your heart and certainly have you asking yourself those same questions. I added the question: What would you say to each other’s collective generation? Once again, check out their answers. Profound.  Our time went so quickly and it is my hope we can continue to bring generations together to talk, learn, and grow in this ever-changing world.  To bring years together instead of experiencing years apart.  Thank you, ladies, for a most powerful and heart-expanding discussion. Thank you for joining me in our Inspire Me Forward circle and offering your wisdom from your perspective. With the utmost of gratitude for your sharing and openness to offer your wisdom to the world.

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #23 entitled The Weight of the World with guests Kathy Moffatt of Merrickville, Ontario, Canada, and Melissa Clark of Barrie, Ontario, Canada was an honest and authentic discussion about the realities of the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism.Melissa shared her personal story in Episode #21  and Kathy shared her journey in Episode #22. When they heard each other’s story they realized they had commonalities. The main one was the use of alcohol to cope with life’s stressors. Different catalysts to make change but common journeys nonetheless.In this panel discussion, each of these courageous women shares their unique relationship to alcohol, how they were able to relinquish the ties they had to it, and find healthier coping strategies. Many emotions were shared in our conversation, from those that keep us bound to our dependencies to those that calm the nervous system and release us from the judgment and blame of alcohol use. We can create new neural pathways with education, information, action steps, community, and support. In her TED Talk, Ann Dowsett-Johnston states, “Our secrets keep us very sick.” I think we could add, sharing our stories helps us become healthy and alleviates the weight of the world off of our individual and collective shoulders. Please find here, each of these women’s personal statements of wisdom and connection.  Melissa’s personal message: “Sometimes later becomes never.” From doing a simple chore to making lifestyle changes.   Melissa can be contacted via Instagram @offmy_chest_ Kathy’s personal message: “Playing the movie forward.” If anyone needs someone to talk to about their alcohol use, or if they have a friend or family member who would benefit from some non-judgmental support, I am happy to connect.  Send email to [email protected]. We can set up a call using whatever platform is suitable.Thank you, ladies for a powerful and healing discussion. ~*~Resources. This list includes some resources we spoke of and some that both, Melissa and Kathy have shared. Canadian Cancer Society: Some sobering facts about alcohol and cancer riskhttps://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/reduce-your-risk/limit-alcohol/some-sobering-facts-about-alcohol-and-cancer-risk TED Talk: Drinking and how it changed my life with Ann Dowsett-Johnston https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtZjpI1oVQ Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health   https://www.ccsa.ca/canadas-guidance-alcohol-and-health  The Feminisation of Alcohol Marketing  https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20200924-the-feminisation-of-alcohol-marketing  BooksAlcohol Explained - William Porter   Alcohol Lied to  Me - Craig Beck This Naked Mind  - Annie Grace Quit Like a Woman  - Holly Whitaker   Podcasts with good support communities“ Over the Influence”“Tribe Sober”“ One Year no Beer” You might have heard mention of the LCBO – This stands for Liquor Control Board of Ontario but also we refer to our liquor stores as the LCBO.  For Substance Use Support in Canada: https://www.ccsa.ca/addictions-treatment-helplines-canada    

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #22 entitled Finding the Ground with Kathy Moffatt of Merrickville, Ontario, Canada was a true mother’s journey through the realities of life.   We have moved into Season 3 Inspire Me Forward with the title of Share YOUR Story. Staying open to receiving the stories that wish to be told.  Sharing journeys of life, love, and everything in between. Exploring what it means to be the pilot of our own life journey and live in community with others. Kathy shared her journey of adopting, raising, and supporting her boys, as well as the journey back to herself.  We spoke of expectations, nurturing, and supporting a child who has lived with drug addictions, incarceration, and homelessness. Kathy shared the realities of childhood trauma and mentioned the concept of trauma stacking (https://fountainhillcenter.org/traumastack/ ). A few books on trauma that Kathy suggests:Waking the Tiger by Peter LevineIn the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Mate We also spoke of community, both on the judgmental side as well as the supportive side. Kathy then shared the day when she broke open and the light began to shine in. When she found her ground, her boundaries, and her own light. And how life changed for her after that. A few things from our conversation that resonated with me.•             The importance of community and the realities of community. Seeking support in a community of like-minded people.•             Learning to say no and let go with love. •             That letting go leaves space.•             Look after yourself first, you are no good to someone else if you don’t.As Kathy stated: The more we share these experiences the more we take the stigma away from it.  Addiction knows no social status or race.  Kathy thank you so much for sharing your heart and your journey with us. I found both windows and mirrors through your story and for that, I am truly grateful. I am sure others will find information, wisdom, and a reflective mirror in some way through this conversation. As we so often hear: These words were exactly what I needed to hear. Your story will do that for many, I am sure. Please, if Kathy’s words touched your heart, do drop her a message.  Kathy’s contact information can be found on her website. ~*~ Kathy's website https://rideaubreezestablesandwellnesscentre.com/ Other suggested resources: Nar-anon resources for family members of drug addictshttps://www.addictioncenter.com/treatment/12-step-programs/nar-anon/Publicly funded residential rehabs in Ontariohttps://www.connexontario.ca/en-ca/Public FB group Parents of Drug Addictshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/212315748795808 

Inspire Me Forward, Episode #21 entitled Off My Chest with Melissa Clark of Barrie, Ontario, Canada was raw, honest, and chalked full of wisdom for all.  Melissa shared her breast cancer journey including the challenges it has brought in identity and the feelings of guilt. She also speaks of the support from so many along the way.  Where she was, how she handled all that was handed to her, and where she is now. Melissa offered heartfelt thanks to her surgeon and massage therapist who were key in her recovery.Her surgeon, Renee Hanrahan https://www.rvhresearchinstitute.ca/hanrahan-oncoplastics  And, her massage therapist, Jackie Mungal, RMT https://freedommassageclinic.janeapp.com/ A few things from our conversation that resonated with me.•             Don’t sweat the small stuff… Melissa dives into this concept with some fresh insight.•             The absolute need for a positive outlook.•             Comfort can be found in many places•             Community is so very important but it is just fine to say no when space is needed. And that goes for all parties involved.•             Receiving is a beautiful thing, especially when accepted without judgment. Thank you so much Melissa for sharing your heart and your journey with us. As well as your wisdom that kept you going and keeps you going through this all.  You are a pillar for positive thinking.  Please, if Melissa’s words touched your heart, do drop her a message.  On Instagram @offmy_chest_You can find the YouTube version of this interview HERE