In this uplifting episode of Conversations Ignite, I’m joined by award-nominated author and podcast host Kim Lengling for a heartwarming conversation about the power of kindness, healing through storytelling, and the simple joys that keep us grounded.
Kim opens up about her latest book, Nuggets of Hope: Cultivate Kindness, and how small acts of compassion can ripple out to create a more connected and hopeful world. We also explore her beloved Paw Prints on the Couch series and the deep emotional bonds we share with our furry companions. From living with PTSD to leading collaborative book projects and hosting her podcast Let Fear Bounce, Kim shares wisdom, warmth, and a message we could all use more of: hope is everywhere—you just have to be willing to pass it on.
You can explore Kim’s books and learn more about her mission by visiting www.kimlenglingauthor.com.
🔗 Connect with Kim Lengling:
🌐 Website: www.kimlenglingauthor.com
📺 YouTube: @LetFearBounce
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/lenglingauthor
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kimberlylengling
🛍️ Amazon Author Page: Kim Lengling on Amazon
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we dive into the wild and deeply inspiring life of Michael Jai Grant—author, filmmaker, photographer, and longtime Sundance volunteer. Michael shares stories that are as heartfelt as they are hilarious, from navigating a 30-year love story that required three weddings, to a spiritual awakening in India where a dead guru delivered ten life-changing truths.
We also explore his debut novel, The Limited Edition Bicentennial Cadillac Convertible Joy Ride—a bold, genre-bending story narrated entirely by a vintage Cadillac Eldorado. It’s a soulful, sharply funny tale of connection, liberation, and the unexpected friendships that move us forward.
If you’re into conversations about creativity, identity, reinvention, and the strange poetry of life—you’re in for something special.
🌐 Connect with Michael Jai Grant:
🔗 Website: https://www.michaeljaigrant.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljaigrant
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaeljaigrant
📖 Grab the Book:
📦 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1737359170/
📚 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-limited-edition-bicentennial-cadillac-convertible-joy-ride-michael-jai-grant/1144027365
🌟 Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198430168-the-limited-edition-bicentennial-cadillac-convertible-joy-ride
💸 ThriftBooks: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-limited-edition-bicentennial-cadillac-convertible-joy-ride_michael-jai-grant/39782179/item/#edition=68131214&idiq=58865496
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we’re joined by fantasy author J.M. Shaw, creator of the Callum Walker series, including her latest installment The Fractured Veil. J.M. shares the personal inspirations and creative process behind her richly imagined world—where myth and magic collide with emotional depth, identity, and personal growth.
We explore how her characters navigate complex themes like friendship, trust, and self-discovery, and how the dynamic between Callum and Jax reflects the power of opposites working together. J.M. also reflects on her lifelong love of storytelling and the role empathy plays in shaping authentic, emotionally resonant characters.
Whether you’re a fan of immersive fantasy or curious about the mind behind the magic, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a deep dive into storytelling with heart.
🔗 Connect with J.M. Shaw:
Join Conversations Ignite for a powerful episode featuring retired fire captain and award-winning author Cindie Schooner-Ball, as she shares her incredible journey through 28 years in the fire service.
In her memoir, Sister in a Brotherhood, Cindie details what it took to rise through the ranks of a major South Florida fire department as one of the few women in the field. From high-stakes emergency calls to the camaraderie of the firehouse—and the moments she had to fight for respect—her story is one of resilience, purpose, and leadership.
Hear what it really means to serve on the front lines, what she learned about building successful teams, and why she encourages women everywhere to pursue careers they’re passionate about—even in spaces where they’ve been told they don’t belong.
Whether you're in public service or simply need a dose of inspiration, this episode will ignite something in you.
🔗 Grab Sister in a Brotherhood on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=sister+in+a+brotherhood&crid=2CZDUGJC1DB30&sprefix=sister+and+a+brotherh%2Caps%2C904&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-pd-dpltr-ranker_1_21
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, I sit down with Tricia Copeland, a multiple award-winning and critically acclaimed author whose work spans fantasy, dystopian, and young adult fiction. Tricia is the creative force behind the Kingdom Journals series, To Be A Fae Queen, and Azreya, Aztec Priestess—a collection of novels that transport readers into magical, high-stakes worlds filled with richly drawn characters and powerful themes.
We talk about her journey into writing, the inspiration behind her epic fantasy series, what it's like to navigate the world of self-publishing, and how she crafts such immersive and emotional stories. Whether you're a fellow writer or a fan of fantasy, you’ll take away valuable insights from Tricia’s experience and passion for storytelling.
If you’d like to learn more about Tricia and follow her work, visit her here:
🔗 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6s0imhxH3qgQiHhNhpIxwF
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@triciacopelandauthor
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@triciacopelandauthor
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authortriciacopeland/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriciaCopelandAuthor/
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we welcome Doug Lawrence, an experienced mentor, international bestselling author, and founder of TalentC – People Services Inc. With over 35 years of mentoring and leadership experience, Doug dives into the powerful role mentorship plays in personal growth, mental health, and professional development.
Doug shares his journey from coaching university students to co-founding the International Mentoring Community and developing certified mentorship programs that support both individuals and organizations. He discusses how mentorship can be a critical support system—especially for those dealing with grief, mental health struggles, or reintegration after military service.
A strong advocate for active listening, empathy, and humility, Doug emphasizes that true mentorship is never one-size-fits-all. Instead, it’s about building trust, meeting people where they are, and empowering them to discover their own solutions.
📩 Connect with Doug Lawrence:If you’re interested in learning more about Doug’s mentorship programs or resources, visit his website at https://talentc.ca/ or email him at doug.lawrence@talentc.ca
🌐 Doug’s Social Media & Online Presence:
LinkedIn – Connect professionally and explore his mentorship work:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglawrence-mentor/
YouTube – Watch presentations, mentorship insights, and the “You Are Not Alone” book trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TalentcDougLawrence/videos
Facebook – Follow for personal updates and mentorship reflections:
https://www.facebook.com/doug.lawrence.1610
Quora – Read Doug’s answers and thoughts on mentorship, leadership, and wellness:
https://www.quora.com/profile/Doug-Lawrence-6
X (formerly Twitter) – Stay up to date with Doug’s latest updates and thoughts on mentoring:
https://x.com/DougLawrenceJM
Season 1 Episode 29In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we sit down with Jonni Jordyn, a multi-talented author whose journey spans from music and poetry to scriptwriting and novel writing. Jonni is the mastermind behind The Mother of All Viruses, a gripping cyber-thriller packed with high-stakes action, government conspiracies, and a hacker at the heart of it all.
We dive into Jonni’s creative process, the real-world inspirations behind her stories, and how her background in storytelling has shaped her unique voice. From exploring the fine line between fiction and reality to discussing the challenges of writing tech-driven thrillers, this episode is a must-listen for fans of fast-paced, thought-provoking storytelling.
So sit back, relax, and let’s get into it!
Connect with Jonni Jordyn:
🌐 Website: jordynatlargebooks.com
📖 Amazon: The Mother of All Viruses https://www.amazon.com/Mother-All-Viruses-Book-ebook/dp/B0DJMGVD55/
🐦 Follow on X: @KovacichJohn
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, acclaimed author and educator Don Sawyer takes us on a fascinating journey through his life and writing. With experiences spanning West Africa, Jamaica, Hungary, and beyond, Don shares how different cultures and human connections have shaped his storytelling.
We dive deep into his latest novel, The Burning Gem, a gripping mix of urban fiction and fantasy that explores empowerment, rebellion, and the hidden forces shaping our world. Don reflects on themes of colonialism, oppression, and the strength of community, offering profound insights into the power of storytelling and the role of imagination in today’s world.
Along the way, he shares thought-provoking perspectives on empathy, the nature of power, and the transformative impact of reading. As Don puts it, "The power doesn’t corrupt—it reveals your true character."
Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges the way we see the world and invites us to explore what lies beyond the limits of our imagination.
Connect with Don Sawyer
📌 Check out Don’s work on his website: DonSawyer.org📖
Grab a copy of The Burning Gem:
Amazon (U.S.)https://www.amazon.com/Burning-Gem-Don-Sawyer/dp/B0D16DDX8MAmazon (Canada)https://www.amazon.ca/Burning-Gem-Don-Sawyer/dp/B0D16DDX8M
🎙️ #Podcast 🔥 #ConversationsIgnite 🎧 #PodcastEpisode 📢 #ListenNow 📖 #Storytelling 📝 #WritingCommunity 📚 #AuthorInterview 📜 #FantasyBooks #TheBurningGem 🌍 #HiddenWorlds ⚡ #PowerOfStorytelling 🔮 #FantasyMeetsReality ✍️ #DonSawyer
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we sit down with Angela Calzone, President and CEO of Inroads to Opportunities, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual, developmental, and mental health disabilities to reach their full potential—especially in the workplace.
Angela shares how her personal journey, inspired by her daughter with special needs, led her to transition from the for-profit sector to nonprofit leadership, applying her business expertise to create meaningful impact. She discusses common misconceptions surrounding hiring individuals with disabilities, emphasizing their loyalty, reliability, and enthusiasm as valuable assets to businesses.
The conversation explores the vital role of inclusive language, how Inroads to Opportunities provides training and support to ensure workplace success, and why shifting perspectives can break down stigmas.
To learn more about Inroads to Opportunities and their mission please visit https://www.inroadsto.org/
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, I sit down with Sabrina Osso, founder and CEO of Osso Safe, to discuss how she's transforming home safety through education and technology. Drawing from her personal experience growing up in a household affected by domestic violence, Sabrina has built a groundbreaking certification program that helps property owners create safer living environments.
We explore the powerful tools Osso Safe offers—ranging from policies and seminars to an app that detects violent movements—all designed to make respect a standard in every home. Sabrina also shares her bold stance on shifting the burden of responsibility away from victims and onto abusers, advocating for a future where children have a say in their living conditions before adulthood.
🔹 "Respect is a lifestyle."
🔹 "Shame has to change sides."
🔹 "Love is supposed to make you feel good, not bad."
From tackling misconceptions about love and control to addressing the role of landlords in preventing domestic violence, this conversation is a deep dive into what it truly means to feel safe where you live.
Listen in and be part of the movement to make every home Osso Safe. 🔥
Learn more at www.ossosafe.com
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we sit down with Kim Keane, a certified life coach, Reiki master, and holistic healer. Kim shares her journey of leaving a teaching career due to burnout and discovering the power of holistic healing to overcome trauma and limiting beliefs. She discusses the importance of self-care, resilience, and breaking free from external validation. Kim also explains how life coaching differs from traditional therapy and offers insights into finding the right coach.
🔥 Tune in to learn how to clear energetic blocks, regulate emotions, and empower yourself on your personal growth journey. And as always, keep that fire burning!
In this inspiring episode of Conversations Ignite, we sit down with Ethan Poetic, a self-published author, mental health advocate, and survivor of a near-fatal car accident. With only a 1% chance of survival, Ethan defied the odds and transformed his experience into a powerful message of resilience and perseverance.
Ethan shares how his journey led him to earn two college degrees, become a role model for young athletes and local leaders, and use his platform to advocate for mental health awareness. We also discuss his latest achievement—receiving an NAACP award for his dedication to community impact and positive influence.
Ethan reflects on the importance of self-publishing his autobiography, the power of leaving a lasting legacy, and how overcoming adversity can shape one's purpose. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, motivation, and a reminder that resilience can lead to incredible opportunities.
Connect with Ethan:
https://ethanspeaks.com/
Instagram, TikTok, Lemon8, Threads and Snapchat: Ethanpoetic23
Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn:
Ethan Poetic
James Gebhardt, Founder and CEO of MyArkit, joins Conversations Ignite to discuss the future of digital memory preservation. With the rise of "digital dementia" and lost memories due to shifting technologies, MyArkit provides a secure and lasting solution for safeguarding personal histories. James shares heartfelt stories, the platform’s innovative features, and upcoming expansions. Discover why preserving your digital legacy today is more important than ever!
To learn more about MyArkit, visit www.myarkit.com
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we sit down with Tarra Stubbins, a dynamic entrepreneur and Lifestyle Manager who transitioned from the world of rock and roll to building two multi-million-dollar businesses. Tarra opens up about her unconventional path—from leaving high school to managing high-profile clients like Mick Jagger and Richard Branson.
She shares insights on the power of delegation, the myth of multitasking, and the importance of building a strong professional network. With her no-nonsense approach, Tarra offers actionable tips on setting clear priorities, creating impactful habits, and embracing self-motivation.
Discover how Tarra's unique experiences shape her philosophy on time management and accountability and learn how you can unlock your potential to live the life you've always dreamed of.
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Richard Blank, the CEO of Costa Rica’s Call Center, who shares his remarkable journey from Philadelphia to Costa Rica at the age of 27. Richard talks about how his bilingual skills opened doors across Latin America and how he built his company from the ground up, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
We dive into his leadership philosophy, which focuses on empathy, motivation, and the power of human connection in the call center industry. Richard also discusses his unique approach to training over 10,000 bilingual telemarketers and the tools that have helped him succeed, like phonetic micro-expression reading and the famous Buffer-Boomerang Technique.
In addition to his professional expertise, Richard shares his personal passions, including his massive collection of restored American pinball machines and antique jukeboxes, and how gamification plays a key role in his company’s culture. He reflects on the importance of authenticity, following your dreams, and embracing the journey with integrity.
This episode is filled with insights on leadership, the future of AI in telemarketing, and how living authentically can bring true happiness. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond business and explores what it means to live a fulfilling and impactful life.
In this insightful episode of Conversations Ignite, Josef Stetter—known as the "Resume Whisperer"—shares his unconventional career journey and passion for helping others achieve their dream jobs. With a track record of guiding over 12,000 people to success, Josef offers five essential tips for writing a better resume, strategies for confident job interviews, and the importance of personal branding. He also explores corporate culture, emphasizing actionable policies to retain talent and foster growth. Learn how Josef’s innovative AI-driven platform is shaping the future of HR and enhancing the employee experience.
In this inspiring episode of Conversations Ignite, Jessica Zemple shares her transformative journey from corporate life to becoming a life coach and advocate for mental health. Jessica reflects on overcoming personal challenges, including her father’s schizophrenia and a traumatic brain injury, to embrace her calling as a "life shucker." We delve into her philosophy of uncovering the pearl within, her groundbreaking documentary Cracked, and the power of patience, self-compassion, and small steps in personal transformation. Tune in for an uplifting conversation on resilience and growth!
Website: Home - Life Shucker YouTube: Jessica Zemple | Life Coach | Mental Health - YouTube
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we dive into the fascinating journey of John Bukowski, an accomplished author and former veterinarian who transitioned to a successful career as a fiction writer. John shares how his diverse experiences in veterinary science, epidemiology, and public health have enriched his storytelling. As the author of fast-paced thrillers like Project Suicide and Checkout Time, which was a 2024 finalist for the Silver Falchion and Imadjinn awards, John offers insights into how his scientific background informs his work.
He discusses the challenges of career transitions, the importance of perseverance, and how his background in writing medical literature has shaped his fiction. John also offers advice on pursuing passions, dealing with rejection, and navigating the “mushy middle” of writing a book. He emphasizes that success isn’t always measured by sales, but by personal fulfillment and reader recognition.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing change, persevering through challenges, and the craft of storytelling.
In this episode of Conversations Ignite, I sit down with the inspiring Anne Montgomery—a former Emmy-winning ESPN SportsCenter anchor, Phoenix Suns studio host, author, teacher, and amateur sports official. Anne shares her remarkable career journey, from breaking barriers in sports broadcasting to discovering new passions after being told she was no longer “camera-worthy.”
We discuss her transition from TV to writing, the stories behind her novels, and her impactful 20-year teaching career at a Title I high school. Anne also reflects on her four decades officiating sports and her adventurous hobbies, including rock collecting and scuba diving.
Tune in for an engaging conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of pursuing your passions.
Ever wondered what it’s like to get paid for cuddling strangers, sniffing armpits, or delivering pizzas underwater? In this episode of Conversations Ignite, we’re diving into the top 10 strangest jobs you can actually get paid for! From snake milkers to professional mourners, these careers are as quirky as they are fascinating. Tune in for surprising details, jaw-dropping anecdotes, and maybe even some inspiration to rethink what a 'normal' job looks like. Would you try any of these? Let’s find out!