The Wishbeads Podcast

What happens when life changes your path in ways you never expected, and somehow brings you closer to your truth? In this heartfelt conversation, I welcome back my dear friend Cristi Christensen — teacher, author, sound healer, and a woman whose journey has been marked by deep courage, transformation, and grace. Together, we explore how life's greatest challenges can also become profound teachers, opening the door to healing, clarity, and a deeper connection to who we really are. Cristi shares her story of moving from a lifelong identity rooted in athletics and performance into a more expansive calling through yoga, chakra work, sound healing, and the powerful lessons that emerged through her cancer journey. We talk about what it means to rebuild from the inside out, how sound can support the nervous system and soften fear, and why manifestation begins with regulation, presence, and embodied intention. This conversation is about much more than healing. It's about remembering that even in the hardest seasons of life, there is still beauty, creativity, connection, and possibility waiting to be claimed. In this episode, we explore: How Cristi and I first met through a magical series of connections Her early dream of becoming an Olympian and the identity shift that followed injury How yoga and the chakra system became part of her life's work What her cancer journey revealed about surrender, resilience, and rebirth How sound healing became part of her personal recovery The ways sound supports the nervous system, brain waves, and emotional regulation Why its difficult to manifest from a dysregulated state The connection between intention, energy, coherence, and receiving Why embodied practices can help move wishes out of the mind and into lived experience How creativity, movement, and sound can become part of a deeper healing path Explore Cristi's work and learn more about her offerings here: CristiChristensen.com Learn more about Cristi's beautiful book here: ChakraRitualsBook.com Listen to my first podcast conversation with Cristi here: Wishbeads.com/blogs/wishbeads/cristi-christensen

What happens when you stop fighting the parts of yourself you were taught to hide — and discover they may be your greatest allies? Kristan Sargeant has lived a life of reinvention, curiosity, and deep inner work. From co-founding a company with her father that grew from a backyard startup into a half-billion-dollar business, to producing TEDxWomen conferences, to earning a master's degree in psychology, Kristan's path has been anything but straight — and that winding road holds the wisdom she now shares. In this rich, honest conversation, Kristan opens up about why traditional success and discipline weren't enough, how she became disenchanted with past-focused therapy, and what changed when she discovered shadow work. We talk about the hidden parts of ourselves that quietly shape our choices, leak our confidence, and sometimes run the show — and how meeting those parts with compassion can restore clarity, courage, and momentum. This episode is an invitation to soften the inner battle, reclaim wholeness, and rethink what it means to grow. If you've ever felt like something inside you is asking to be seen — or like your wish is waiting for you to say a fuller yes — this conversation will meet you right where you are. Learn more about Kristan's work: https://kristansargeant.com Instagram: @kristansargeant

What does it look like to reinvent yourself at nearly 80? Billie Fischer — artist, style maven, and living proof that it's never too late to follow a creative calling. When the world shut down, Billie opened a new chapter, logging into Zoom art classes and discovering a deep love of mixed media and collage. Fast-forward to today, and she's stepping boldly into the spotlight: launching her own website, producing an art show with her fellow artists, and even dreaming of becoming a "grandfluencer," sharing her passion for fashion, art, and fearless creativity at any age. In this inspiring conversation, we look back on Billie's first appearance on the Wishbeads podcast and trace the extraordinary arc of her journey since then — from hesitant beginner to unstoppable creator. Whether you're 18 or 80, Billie's story is a joyful reminder that your wishes don't come with an expiration date. Join us in celebrating Billie's new work at her upcoming art show at Wish Club and follow her creative adventures on Instagram at @blingbybillie.

This episode is extra special because my guest is none other than my husband, Robert LaPorta. If you've ever wondered what it's like to wish alongside me in real time, this conversation is your chance to hear it unfold. Robert has been my behind-the-scenes creative collaborator for years—editing podcasts, producing courses, and listening (endlessly!) to my ideas. But today, he's stepping into the spotlight to share his own wish story: how he went from dreaming about broadcasting to actually doing it, and how a single Wish Circle visualization led him on a completely unexpected path. We talk about: ✨ The magic of saying yes to creativity—right where you are. ✨ How Robert's wish to broadcast turned into live-streaming baseball games (and building a whole community around it!) ✨ The intersection of art, confidence, and putting yourself out there—including his journey from private creativity to launching his first solo art show ✨ The real work of overcoming self-doubt (and how I totally called him out on it 😆) ✨ And… a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT about a retreat we're co-leading in Costa Rica! This is a conversation about trusting your path, leaning into creative flow, and realizing that wishes unfold in ways you never expect. So if you've ever held back on putting your work into the world, or if you're looking for a little inspiration to finally take the next step, you're going to love this episode. 🎧 Listen now: https://wishbeads.libsyn.com/episode-95-robert-laporta-the-voice-of-an-artist And if you want to stay connected to your own wishes, join me for my next Wishcircle—one hour of magic, visualization, and community. Sign up here: Sign up Online: rlaporta.com Follow Robert on IG: @littleman.daily and @theinnerfort Catch our next baseball broadcast: @newroadsbaseball

In this episode, I'm joined by the amazing Vanessa Till Hooper as we dive into our journey with Wish As One: Joy House. From the challenges of organizing a global virtual concert to the joy of supporting displaced communities through art and music, we share how collective wishing and creativity can truly transform lives.

Susan Grau is a Healer, Renowned Intuitive Medium, Inspirational Speaker, and Hay House Author. She also happens to be one of the most delightful and inspiring thought leaders in helping people connect with the spirit world.

As she approaches her eighth decade, Billie Fischer is thrilled to be dancing her way into her next exciting chapter as an artist! We celebrate her courage to make her wish come true and embrace her new found passion with her signature style inspiring us all along the way!

Dr. Jessie Mahoney is not only a pediatrician and physician coach but also a passionate advocate for wellness who has beautifully incorporated Wishbeads into her retreats for physicians. It's truly moving to see how the integration of Wishbeads can amplify these effects, providing a tangible reminder of their journey.

This month I'm thrilled to feature my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Frank Ricciardi on the Wishbeads Podcast. His journey has been remarkable–from traveling all over the world building businesses to taking the leap of faith to launching his own company.

Sheila Darcey is a visionary artist and the founder of SketchPoetic, a creative expression practice that empowers individuals to express, reflect, and heal. In 2021, she authored the book "Sketch by Sketch - A Creative Path to Emotional Healing & Transformation". 

I had the pleasure of connecting with Evie after an extraordinary experience she had on a trip to Southeast Asia following the passing of her beloved grandmother. You'll also hear Evie's personal journey of motherhood, which informed her work in surrogacy, egg-freezing, fertility and access to information. It's an inspiring story that illustrates how a life journey can shape one's destiny!

Amy Liu is the founder + CEO of Tower 28 Beauty, a clean, vegan, modern beauty brand. Hear about the leap of faith she took to make her wish come true and build a business that captured the essence of her unique vision–to create fun, effective, inclusive products with a beach vibe!

Actor, Director, and Writer Elizabeth Gaylynn Baker plays Mable on the long-playing Social Media hit Retirement House. They've been making people laugh all over the world for nearly two years and have an incredible 5 million followers and over 3 billion views.

Jamie Cole is a seasoned expert at helping businesses and people thrive with purpose and positivity. We were delighted to be introduced to one another by a mutual friend, sensing our kindred spirits and shared outlook on life. In fact, she made one of MY WISHES come true!

Sandra Magsamen is an artist, art therapist, mom, and award-winning author who has touched millions of people with her heartfelt creations. On the podcast, Sandra shares so many gems of insight that have shaped her journey as an artist and entrepreneur. 

Susyn joined me on the podcast to share her true story of wishing for love and finding it! Recorded while she was in Portugal with her new boyfriend, she recounts how she wrote her wish and less than one year later is living the life she imagined. 

Many months ago, Susan attended one of our virtual Wishcircles and saw herself speaking from the stage. In this episode, in addition to sharing how Susan's Tedx talk come to be, I'm also coaching her on how to best prepare for her moment in the spotlight. Vision + action makes wishes come true!

There's nothing like a home remodel to learn a thing or two about yourself. In this episode, I'm sharing some of the discoveries I've made along the way. When you rip down your walls, you see the TRUTH of what's going on below the surface.  If you're ready to remodel your life, then this episode is for you!

I met Lesley at a Wishcircle after the loss of her husband, uncertain of how she could build a new life for herself and two daughters. With courage, hope, and commitment, she did just that and we were privileged to witness her journey as she attended every monthly Wishcircle for over a year.

Bob LaPorta is an 81 yr old retired entertainment executive, grandfather, an aspiring architect, mathematician, and lifelong chart, list, and infographic artist. He also happens to be Alexa's father-in-law! Together, along with Alexa's husband Robert, they turned his ingenious game concept into a cool, carry-along game called 3/9 Baseball.

Helice Bridges, "Grandma Sparky," is the Founder of Blue Ribbons Worldwide, a nonprofit on a mission to Unite Humanity Through the Power of Love. Her work has impacted over 50 million people in corporations, organizations, and schools worldwide on her way to reaching 1 billion.

In times of turmoil, let's turn to our youth to see how they're building the future. This month I'm thrilled to interview my son, Elio LaPorta. Since he was 6 years old, he's been working towards building his own dream, as a baseball player!

Glodean Champion is an author and transformational leader who specializes in personal and professional development, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In our conversation, Glodean shares her love of people, road trips, and the magic that can happen when you leap into a world of possibility.

Vanessa Till Hooper is the Founder of Studio HHH whose work traverses the overlapping disciplines of art and architecture. In today's podcast, we chat about the creative process and the gifts that come with giving yourself time and space to think through a spark of an idea.

A new year. A fresh start. Time to pause and plan—not just about what I want to accomplish, but also how I want to FEEL. In the podcast, I chat about the power of your feelings as it relates to what you are creating in all aspects of your life. When we experience the joy of those feelings, then in some way, we are living our wishes RIGHT NOW.

Singer/guitarist Steph Johnson is an award-winning, multi-dimensional recording artist. Her recording career has taken a back seat in recent years to social activism. Steph co-founded and is now Executive Director and Music Director of the Voices of Our City Choir, whose members are experiencing homelessness. 

From growing up with bullet holes outside of his bedroom window to sharing the stage with Marianne Williamson and Deepak Chopra, Justin Michael Williams knows well the power of healing to overcome. On our podcast, Justin and I discuss his upcoming event Manifest NYE!

Lesley Jane Seymour is the Founder of CoveyClub, an online group for life-long learners with a focus on reinvention. After a celebrated career as the Editor-in-Chief for More Magazine, Marie Claire, Redbook, and YM, she decided to re-invent herself - moving to New Orleans and embracing life as a media entrepreneur. On the podcast, we chat about the power of bold moves, especially as we age!

For the past 20 years, Sylvia Martinez has helped empower young minds. In our podcast, she shares her own journey as a proud alumn of Girls Inc. of Carpinteria which turned into a lifelong passion for shaping the next generation of female leaders.

Cristi is an author, teacher, and global wellness leader, on a mission to shake up the planet! With more than two decades of experience in helping students transform their lives, she has become a leading global voice for women's awakening and liberation.

Jake Roussos is a speaker, philanthropist, and life enthusiast. He taught me to swim through my fear of the waves so I could enjoy the awe on the other side. His deep connection to the water and its amazing healing ability has shaped the direction of his life!

Theresa Reed is a life-long learner who has turned her passion and curiosity about astrology and tarot into a thriving business that helps others use the mystical arts as a tool for guidance. At long last, she is bringing tarot to young ones and the young at heart!

I've learned quite a lot in this Wishbeads journey, especially about the importance of staying positive, persistent, and proactive. Making your wishes come true takes time, but when you believe in your dreams and you are non-attached to the results, you experience MAGIC.

As Founder & CEO of The XX Project, Michelle has built a community of female leaders to propel women to their next phase of personal and professional success.

Inbal is a woman who has reinvented herself many times. From a premed student to an event planner, a student, and parent educator, and a mother of three, she received an exciting download a year ago sending her life on a new adventure. Hear her story about how her wish came true!

Josephine Atluri is an expert in meditation and helping people overcome adversity to find joy. Her meditation sessions and online mindfulness classes teach practical coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and loss to improve the balance of mind, body, and spirit through health and fertility struggles.

Kimberly Stimmel is the Founder, CEO, and President of Closet of Caring, a nonprofit that provides clothing and other essential items to the homeless in Summit County Ohio. Launched in the middle of the pandemic, Kimberly felt the call to jump into service despite every conceivable obstacle.

Let's talk about LOVE! If you're looking to learn more about relationships and The Law of Attraction, you're in for a treat. Today's podcast guest, Arielle Ford is a celebrated love and relationship expert, author, speaker, and her mission is to help people Find Love, Keep Love and Be Love. She is the author of eleven books including the international bestseller, THE SOULMATE SECRET: Manifest The Love of Your Life With The Law of Attraction.

On this week's podcast, we're chatting about the energy of money and how we can learn the invaluable skill of managing our pennies so we can manage our millions. Tara Jones-Williamson delivers some sage advice, no matter where you are on your financial journey. Her story is sure to inspire you. 

I met Corey in my first class at Northwestern University. His big smile, warm heart, and fantastic sense of humor made me love him right from the start. On today's podcast, you'll get a crash course in the importance of telling great stories and how to tell your own!

My guest this week, JJ Flizanes, is an expert in the Law of Attraction. In this week's podcast, she shares her own true story of creating what you crave, even when faced with a new city, no job, and just a fistful of cash in your pocket. Today her success speaks for itself! 

Joyce Shulman is Co-Founder and CEO of 99 Walks. In this episode, we share the highs and lows of life as an entrepreneur and the gifts that come with setting intentions and putting them into action. Hear the remarkable impact that one bit of advice from her Dad had on the rest of her life.

I've been a fan of John Lee Dumas for over a decade. I had the pleasure of being interviewed for his podcast, and I used his Freedom Journal to help me launch my Kickstarter campaign for Wishbeads. Making your wishes come true takes hustle and commitment. Take it from us and may it ignite your success!

Michele Sammons is an inspirational author, spiritual teacher, and highly-attuned guide who works with clients worldwide helping them transform their lives through divine guidance. She's a bright light in this world and I hope you enjoy her words of wisdom!

In our podcast, Kelsey shared one of her favorite quotes from Miles Davis, "Do not fear mistakes. There are none." In our conversation, she tells us her journey of discovery, from changing careers to discovering new talents, finding new friends, and surrendering to new experiences. I'm sure her story will inspire you!

I decided to take the plunge and schedule a palm reading for myself after I had heard glowing recommendations. The experience was incredible! On today's podcast, he and I discuss the wisdom, insight, and guidance you can receive when you recognize the messages in your hands.

Tiffany Shlain is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker, founder of the Webby Awards, author of 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week, winner of the Marshall McLuhan Outstanding Book Award, and hosts a monthly #ZoomChallahBake. If you're to re-discover life beyond your screen - listen to today's episode!

I first "met" AJ on the app, Nextdoor. His spirit and message were so moving, I decided to contact him to purchase his book, "L.O.V.E. Is The Answer," about improving police-community relations, dismantling systemic racism, and helping people, in general, to learn how to love each other.

Barbara Mouradian is the creative force and magical moon water maker at her new company, Eye Love Love. She felt drawn to create moon waters - a practice she learned from both her mother and grandmother. Her creativity, passion, and inventiveness all came together to launch her new business - at home in quarantine!

When I met Sally Lou Loveman, there was an instant connection. As the former audience producer for The Oprah Winfrey Show, Sally Lou had a front-row seat to the most powerful stories. She's also the author of the book SPEAK: Love Your Story, Your Audience Is Waiting. She believes that we all have a gift - our story.