If you’re looking for inspiration on finding healing through creativity, this episode is for you. As we celebrate National Reading New Book Month, I sit down with Australian poet and academic Nadine Ellis to talk about her new poetry collection, “The Gray Between.” Nadine shares how poetry helped her process some of life’s most difficult moments—everything from trauma and motherhood to growing older and embracing change. You’ll hear her read a few poems that invite us to reflect on life’s turning points and see how honest writing can open doors to resilience.
We dig into how creative work can connect us even through hard-to-talk-about experiences, as well as practical ways to develop your own voice through everyday life. Podcasters, writers, and creators will pick up tips on:
Using poetry (or any writing) for self-healing and connecting with your audience
Framing difficult or personal experiences in ways that invite others in, rather than push them away
If you’ve ever wondered how books and creativity can be a lifeline, this one’s not to miss.
Connect with Nadine Ellis
Website: https://www.nadineellis.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadineellispoetry/
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Chapters
00:00 Why National Reading New Book Month Matters
01:59 How Books Help Us Feel Less Alone
02:52 Why “The Gray Between” Is Timely
04:24 Poetry’s Role in Healing Journeys
05:44 Connecting Through Shared Experience
07:28 The Making of “The Gray Between”
10:40 Poetry as Therapy and Lifeline
12:31 Poem: “Naha Island” and New Beginnings
14:45 Poem: “Six Decades” and Aging
16:06 How Reading Shaped Nadine’s Life
18:44 Finding Connection in Poetry
20:57 Rethinking What It Means to Read
21:24 Where to Find Nadine’s Work
22:25 The Wish for a Poetry Audiobook
23:00 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect
If you’re looking for real talk about what inclusion at work can look like—and what it actually takes—this episode is for you. Join me as I sit down with Win Charles, an author, podcaster, and Ironman triathlete living with cerebral palsy. Win opens up about building a career on her own terms, from writing her memoir to producing 1,500+ podcast episodes. In this conversation, we get into the small, practical changes that make workplaces welcoming (hint: think beyond awareness months), and how sometimes the biggest breakthroughs start with simply saying “hi” to someone different from you.
For creators and podcasters, you’ll pick up ideas on:
How sharing your own story can encourage others to create and connect in unexpected ways.
The nuts and bolts of producing a podcast solo—even when you’re teaching yourself as you go.
Why “it takes a village” applies to creativity and caregiving alike.
Win’s openness about her journey—from teaching to podcasting to overcoming adversity—offers a fresh perspective on belonging, creativity, and making every day count.
Connect with Win Charles
Website:http://winatlifepodcast.weebly.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wincharles/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome And Podcast Introduction
00:28 Meet Win Charles: Advocate And Creator
01:30 What Disability Employment Month Means
02:56 Teaching, Inclusion, And Education Stories
04:26 Lessons From Writing “I Win”
05:27 Podcasting As A New Path
06:02 How A Podcast Inspired Win
08:27 Finding Her Niche: Cerebral Palsy Podcast
09:25 Producing And Editing Her Own Shows
10:30 Why It’s Called “A Winning Heart”
11:02 Inclusive Workplaces—What Matters Most
12:14 Breaking Disability Misconceptions
13:33 Simple Changes For Real Inclusion
14:52 How Adversity Shapes Mentoring
17:04 Inspiring Others To Start Creating
18:04 Listener Reception And Podcast Growth
19:20 On Excuses And Taking Action
20:10 Encouragement For Caregivers
22:02 Where To Find Win’s Podcasts
23:09 Wrap-Up And Farewell
If you’ve ever thought humor and mental health don’t go together, this episode is for you. I sit down with Dave Mowry, author, mental health advocate, and stand-up comic, to explore how laughter can be an unexpected and healing way to cope with life’s hardest moments. You’ll hear stories of transformation—not just from Dave, but also from students who discovered courage by turning pain into comedy. Dave shares what happens when we stop hiding our struggles behind silence and start connecting through shared laughter.
By tuning in, podcasters and creators will pick up:
How finding humor in personal challenges—especially mental health struggles—can help break stigma for your audience.
Why just listening and accepting others, rather than “fixing” them, leads to deeper, more supportive conversations on and off the mic.
Dave’s journey can help you rethink the stories you tell and the space you create for your listeners.
Connect with Dave Mowry
Website:https://davemowry.wordpress.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-mowry
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and World Mental Health Day
00:55 Why This Episode Matters
01:17 Meet Dave Mowry
02:07 Humor as a Turning Point
03:10 Discovering Comedy for Healing
04:04 Writing Jokes About Mental Illness
05:49 Using Humor to Cope With Anxiety
06:22 Teaching Comedy: Student Transformations
07:31 Laughing With Yourself, Not At
09:10 How Comedy Empowers People
09:36 “OMG That’s Me” and Reader Responses
11:36 From Struggling Alone to Sharing on Stage
12:24 Speaking Honestly About Suicidal Thoughts
13:51 Laughter as Healing
14:30 Practical Actions for Supporters
16:11 Words for Those Feeling Hopeless
18:07 Can Anyone Be Funny?
21:15 Where to Find Dave’s Books and Work
23:04 Closing and How to Stay Connected
If you care about deeper conversations around Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this episode is for you. I sit down with Erica Neubert Campbell, a breast cancer survivor who brings candor and warmth to a topic we often shy away from. Erica opens up about her journey from her own diagnosis through surgery, sharing the type of honest storytelling that moves people to action. You’ll get a peek at the rarely-discussed choices women have to make, and how a simple act of vulnerability from a near stranger can offer genuine hope.
For creators and podcasters, you’ll learn:
How personal storytelling can be a more powerful motivator than statistics or expert advice when it comes to awareness and advocacy.
The importance of finding and trusting community—even when telling tough stories or facing hard choices.
Erica also speaks about the roles of choice, trust, and vulnerability, plus offers a look behind the meaning of the pink ribbon and what truly makes support useful. You won’t want to miss her practical and heartfelt advice for anyone supporting someone with breast cancer.
Connect with Erica Neubert Campbell
Website:https://www.breastcancer.org/podcast/my-mastectomy-experience
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-neubert-campbell-/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Observeday and Today’s Topic
00:23 Introducing Erica Neubert Campbell
01:14 The Power of Storytelling in Awareness
02:01 Learning the “Vocabulary of Cancer”
04:20 Erica’s Diagnosis Moment
06:49 Life Changes After Diagnosis
08:30 Family, Work, and Practical Shifts
08:45 Choosing a Mastectomy: Erica’s Why
11:53 Double Mastectomy and Mindset Shifts
13:04 What Reconstruction Really Means
14:19 A Stranger Offers Hope
16:45 Paying It Forward Through Her Book
17:15 The Role of Trust in Healing
20:19 Seven Years After Diagnosis
21:09 Beyond the Pink Ribbon
22:33 What Is the Pink Ribbon?
23:29 Finding Community and Not Feeling Alone
24:38 Three Words for Erica’s Journey
25:20 Where to Connect With Erica
25:41 Closing and Newsletter Invitation
If you want an honest and thoughtful look at how we can transform deep pain into new understanding, this episode is for you. I sat down with Kerry Blaser, a shaman, author, and mental health advocate, to talk about her own journey through childhood trauma, loss, and a suicide attempt—and how these moments led her to a life of healing and helping others. We don’t shy away from tough topics, but you’ll find real encouragement and clarity here. If you’ve ever wondered how to spot hidden signs of struggle in yourself or loved ones, Kerry shares what she would have wanted people to notice in her darkest times. Podcasters and creators will pick up ideas on how to talk about the hard stuff without shame and how to hold space for others’ pain—even when you don’t have all the answers. Plus, Kerry’s example is a reminder that sharing your story honestly can help listeners feel seen and less alone.
Connect With Kerry Blaser
Website: https://kerryblaser.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kerryblaserofficial
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:49 Kerry’s Story: Trauma and Resilience
02:42 September and Suicide Prevention
03:26 When Darkness Hits Home
06:22 Recognizing Hidden Calls for Help
07:29 Souls, Healing, and Energy
10:36 Why We Feel Alone
13:26 How to Support Others
15:25 Lessons from Family and Reflection
16:19 Transforming Pain Into Wisdom
18:53 A New Understanding of Mental Health
19:26 Where to Find Kerry and Her Work
20:16 Episode Wrap-Up and Newsletter Invite
If you’ve ever wondered how to truly support someone going through a tough time, today’s episode with Mr. Whiskey gives you a fresh, honest perspective. We talk about veteran suicide and mental health, but this conversation goes deeper—touching on why it’s so hard to talk about suicide, the real impact it has on friends and families, and practical ways to help. You’ll hear why caring as a friend means more than passing along a hotline, and how social media affects the mental health of both veterans and younger generations.
If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll learn:
Why raw, personal stories can break the stigma around tough topics and encourage real conversations.
How to create safe spaces for guests and listeners to share openly—even about things that are hard to say aloud.
Whether you’ve dealt with this personally or want to be better prepared to help others, there’s insight here about building trust and making a difference—one conversation at a time.
Connect with Mr Whiskey
Website:https://www.coupleonukes.com/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/coupleonukes/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-whiskey-/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:41 Mr. Whiskey’s Journey to Speaking Out
01:48 Suicide in the Military: Firsthand Stories
03:24 The Ripple Effect of Suicide
05:26 Can the Military Environment Change?
09:05 Breaking Taboos in Veteran Communities
11:11 Suicide Prevention for Kids and Teens
12:23 Misconceptions About Veteran Suicide
14:40 What True Suicide Prevention Looks Like
16:49 Recovery and Finding the Root Cause
20:25 Faith, Hope, and Rebuilding After Trauma
22:35 Social Media’s Role in Youth Mental Health
26:07 Spotting Warning Signs and Being Present
29:45 The Importance of Genuine Care
31:01 Advice for Listeners in Dark Times
35:09 Where to Find Mr. Whiskey
37:04 Final Thoughts and Farewell
If you’ve ever wondered how art and personal experience can help us navigate pain, this episode is for you. I sat down with Lora Arbrador, a registered nurse and artist, who brings a unique perspective as both a care provider and someone who’s lived with chronic pain. We get into her creative journey with the ancient painting technique of egg tempera and talk through how creativity can offer joy, even when facing life challenges.
You’ll pick up some fresh ways to think about expressing your experience—whether that’s pain, growth, or healing—through art, no matter your skill level. Lora also shares practical approaches to managing pain that blend both medical and creative practices. And, if you’ve ever struggled with confidence in your creative work, her honest reflections may help you find motivation to keep going.
Listen in to discover how making and sharing art shapes both personal identity and community connections—and why it’s never too late to start exploring your creative side.
Connect With Lora Arbrador
Website: https://artandlovebook.com
Newsletter: https://artandlovebook.com
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Chapters
00:00 September is Pain Awareness Month
00:35 Lora’s Dual Perspective: Nurse and Patient
01:09 The Power of Art and Healing
02:43 Lora’s Book: Art and Love
03:09 Discovering Egg Tempera Painting
05:10 Navigating Confidence as an Artist
06:33 The Practical Side of Egg Tempera
08:17 Does Egg Tempera Smell?
09:20 What Is Hypermobility?
10:37 Living and Creating with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
11:41 Nurturing Artistic Interest as a Teen
13:27 Finding Her Medium in Art
14:15 How Pain Shapes Identity and Work
16:16 Facing the Possibility of Not Painting
18:18 Wisdom Spots the Painting’s Hidden Meaning
19:37 Living Close to Nature: Teepee Inspiration
21:51 Art Capturing Pain and Loss
24:22 Advice for Those in Pain or Seeking Creativity
26:11 Where To Find Lora’s Work
27:09 Thanks & How to Connect Further
If you’ve ever struggled with pain—whether it’s physical or emotional—this episode is for you. I sit down with Michael Ostrolenk, a longtime resilience and conscious relationship coach, to explore how pain is more than just something to “get through.” We look at how pain can be a signal for growth, and how reshaping your mindset can actually transform your relationship with difficult experiences.
Michael shares his unique childhood story of bypassing quick-fix solutions and instead learning self-mastery, meditation, and biofeedback. You’ll hear about the real difference between pushing pain away and actually sitting with it, plus why building resilience isn’t just individual, but also deeply relational and even communal.
Two practical takeaways you’ll discover:
How to tell if you’re truly being resilient versus just ignoring your pain.
Simple steps for creators and podcasters to build supportive relationships for facing life’s tough moments.
If you want a thoughtful, grounded perspective on pain—and what it really means to grow through it—you’ll want to tune in.
Connect with Michael Ostrolenk
Website:https://michaeldostrolenk.com/
Twitter:https://x.com/mostrolenk
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ostrolenk-ma
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Chapters
00:00 Welcoming Listeners and Pain Awareness Month
00:23 Michael’s Early Journey With Resilience
02:44 Discovering Meditation and Self-Mastery
04:08 Evolving Relationship With Pain
06:18 Defining Pain Beyond the Physical
09:05 Emotional Pain and Energy Flow
11:03 What Resilience Is (and Isn’t)
13:20 Sitting With Pain vs. Ignoring It
14:34 When Avoidance Is Sometimes Necessary
15:56 Optimizing the Physical System for Resilience
17:16 Relationship and Interpersonal Resilience
19:25 Community and Leadership as Resilience
20:48 Advice for Listeners in Pain
22:18 Where to Find Michael’s Work
22:47 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps
If you’re someone who wants to grow, get unstuck, or just make the most of where you are in life, this episode is for you. I’m talking with Kevin Jackson (aka Kevi the Dreamer), a self-improvement creative, nurse-turned-podcast-host, and someone who knows a lot about what it means to “grow through what you go through.” We dig into why celebrating small wins is so important—not just for your mindset, but for moving forward. You’ll also hear us talk about what courage, confidence, consistency, and creativity really look like in action, and which one most creators secretly struggle with.
Two specific takeaways you’ll get in this episode:
– How owning your differences (even those you were bullied for) can turn into your biggest creative strength.
– Why revisiting your childhood joys or nostalgic memories can spark fresh ideas and help you feel more confident as a creator.
Whether you’re building a podcast, navigating a career change, or looking to shake off some self-doubt, you’ll find plenty of relatable wisdom here.
Connect with Kevin Jackson
Website:https://keviethedreamer.com/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kevthedreamer/#
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/keviethedreamer/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Self Improvement Month
01:50 Celebrating Small Wins
02:03 Kevin’s Journey: Nursing to Creative
03:35 Growing Through Life’s Challenges
05:35 Turning Differences Into Strengths
08:08 Handling Criticism and Bullying
09:33 The Four Cs of Self-Empowerment
13:48 Inner Child & Consistency
17:17 Cultivating Confidence and Creativity
18:09 The Power of Nostalgia
20:11 Advice to Younger Self
21:04 Where to Find Kevin
21:45 Final Reflections & Farewell
If you’ve ever felt weighed down by grief, addiction, or the silence that often surrounds mental health struggles, this episode is especially for you. I sit down with Damian Bloss, who generously shares his story of losing a loved one to suicide, battling addiction for 20 years, and the moment everything changed. Whether you’re a podcaster, creator, or simply someone seeking hope, you’ll walk away with practical insights on how speaking out can spark healing—not just for yourself, but for your audience, too.
Listen in to discover why breaking the silence is vital in conversations about mental health and addiction, and get tips on how to create safe spaces for sharing difficult stories. Damian also opens up about the turning points in his recovery journey and how family involvement and trauma therapy played a crucial role. You’ll leave with new ideas for supporting guests and fostering open, stigma-free dialogue in your own creative work.
Connect with Damian Bloss
Website: https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Silence-Journey-Addiction-Healing
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/breaking._.the._.silence/#
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Why We Celebrate
00:24 Introducing Damian Bloss
01:03 Damian’s Story: Grief & Addiction
01:47 The Weight of Losing a Loved One
03:11 Carrying Secrets Alone
05:45 Self-Destruction and Denial
06:40 What Rock Bottom Looked Like
07:44 The Accidental Call That Changed Everything
10:17 Beginning True Recovery
12:39 Why Breaking the Silence Matters
14:42 Family and Community Support
17:19 Life After Sobriety
19:45 Advice for Those Struggling
21:43 How to Connect With Damian
22:10 Episode Wrap-Up & Final Thanks
Ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels, trying to “improve” but not really getting anywhere? In this episode, I sit down with coach and entrepreneur Rob Tracz to dig into burnout, self-improvement, and why simply consuming podcasts or books isn’t enough to actually move forward. Rob shares how he broke out of “robot mode” and now helps side hustlers build businesses (and lives) that feel more integrated, not just jam-packed.
Listen in to hear Rob’s six principles for sustainable self-improvement, and practical ways to create routines that work for you (not someone else’s checklist). If you’re a creator or podcaster always learning but struggling to implement, you’ll especially enjoy our discussion on “intentional consumption”—how to shift from just listening to actually applying what inspires you. Plus, we chat about simple starting points for reflection and measuring meaningful progress in your work and life. Give it a listen for insights you can actually use, not just think about.
Connect with Rob Tracz
Website: https://robtracz.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robtracz/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Today’s Topic
00:33 Rob Tracz’s Burnout Turning Point
02:05 Why Rob Chose Side Hustlers
05:49 The Six Core Principles Overview
07:07 What “Looking Good” Really Means
08:01 Feeling Good: Clarity & Efficiency
08:29 Doing Great Things & Luck Creation
10:13 Integration vs. Separation in Success
11:56 Intentional Consumption Explained
13:30 Action vs. Endless Consumption
16:39 The Competence Continuum
18:07 How Projects Help Us Grow
21:42 First Steps for Self-Improvement
23:29 Where to Connect with Rob
24:29 Closing and Newsletter Invite
If you’ve ever wondered how automation and AI can actually make your life — and your business — simpler, this episode is for you. I sit down with Michael Buckbee, co-founder of Noahtoa, to talk about the real-world ways intelligent automation is becoming more accessible, even for those of us who aren’t tech experts. You’ll hear why Michael believes almost anyone can start using tools like ChatGPT and Claude for real productivity, from automating tedious tasks to making communication smoother at work.
You’ll find out:
How AI-powered automation is not just for coders — and where almost anyone can start.
Why giving your brand a clear voice (even as a creator or podcaster) will actually matter more as people start using AI agents for research.
The simple way Michael turned a fun side project into a business serving founders, marketers, and search professionals.
If you want fresh ideas on bringing automation into your workflow — or you’re just curious about how AI is already changing what people find about you or your business — give this one a listen.
Connect with Michael Buckbee
Website: https://wafris.org/
Twitter: https://x.com/wafrisorg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbuckbee/
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Chapters
00:00 Intelligent Automation Month & Intro
00:52 Michael’s Accidental Startup Story
03:30 Core Lessons Across Industries
04:39 How Michael Uses AI for Workflow
06:38 Making Automation Accessible
09:15 Misconceptions About Automation
12:52 How to Start Automating Your Work
14:58 Unexpected Ways Non-Techies Use AI
18:18 Should You Care About Your Personal Brand in AI?
19:45 AI Search and Personal Branding Tips
21:08 How Brands Can Stand Out to AI Agents
24:09 Where to Find Michael & Closing Thoughts
September is Self-Improvement Month, and on this episode, we dig into what real personal growth truly looks like — beyond feel-good quotes and routines. I sit down with Dina Ovsepian to hear how law school, of all things, became her experiment in self-growth. Dina shares honest lessons about how big changes come from doing uncomfortable things, and why logic and resilience sometimes outweigh pure emotion.
If you’ve ever wondered how to tell if self-improvement advice is actually serving you, or how to set up a framework for real, lasting change, you’ll get a lot from this conversation. We talk about why it’s so tempting to get stuck in the “talk” of growth without actually taking action, and Dina explains the difference between consuming self-help content and committing to something concrete that pushes your limits.
Specifically, you’ll learn:
How to separate real progress from the illusion of it when building your personal brand or platform.
The importance of knowing yourself first before following any “one-size-fits-all” strategy.
Practical steps for combining mindset work with tangible action to see growth, not just dream about it.
Connect with Dina Ovsepian
Website: https://bio.site/dinamikaela
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dina_mikaela
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muse.ology/#
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome and What Self-Improvement Means
01:00 Dina’s Law School Growth Experiment
02:53 Lessons in Logic and Resilience
05:18 Before and After Law School
08:45 Struggles With Building a Platform
10:56 When to Listen to Yourself
13:25 The Danger of Doing Without Purpose
15:32 Consumption vs. Real Change
16:31 Why Mindset Alone Isn’t Enough
19:27 Building a Framework of Small Wins
21:46 Law School Lessons for Life
23:29 Know Thyself: The Real Advantage
25:39 Testing Your Limits Through Experience
27:07 Routines, Success, and Personal Fit
29:34 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Dina
If you’re looking for comforting and practical ways to support yourself—or others—through tough times, this episode is a must-listen. I sit down with Anil Gupta, known as the Love Doctor, who opens up about his own journey stepping back from the edge and choosing a life dedicated to helping others. We talk honestly about why it can feel almost impossible to ask for help, and what small steps you can actually take if hope feels out of reach.
In this episode, you’ll hear how a simple shift in focus—like practicing gratitude or performing small acts of kindness—can make a difference on even the hardest days. Anil also shares his “happiness formula” (G x G x G), a straightforward tool you can use daily to lift your mood and find purpose. If you’re a creator or podcaster, you’ll learn the value of showing up authentically for your audience and how cultivating strong relationships can act as your support system, both on and off the mic.
Curious? Tune in for practical steps and heartfelt advice you can start using right away.
Connect with Anil Gupta
Website: https://meetanil.com/
Twitter: https://x.com/MY_LOVE_DOCTOR
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anilgupta-lovedoctor/
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Why This Episode Matters
00:23 Introducing Anil Gupta’s Story
01:16 Facing Crisis and Sharing the Truth
02:37 The Importance of Supportive Relationships
03:41 Shifting Focus From Loss to Service
05:00 The Power of Gratitude in Hard Times
05:37 Why We Struggle to Talk About Suicide
06:40 First Steps Out of the Darkness
07:30 Gratitude and Kindness Practices
07:50 The Happiness Formula Explained
08:26 About the Happiness Test
09:21 Boosting Your Own Happiness Score
10:10 Forgiveness—Starting With Yourself
11:28 Relationships as Our Support System
12:56 How to Build Healthy Connections
13:41 Why We Are the Common Denominator
14:20 Saving Yourself—Taking Action
14:32 Is Happiness Really a Choice?
16:28 Don’t Wait To Be Rescued
16:57 Where To Find Anil’s Work
17:52 Wrap Up & Where To Connect
If you’ve ever felt like your stories “aren’t big enough” to share, this is the episode for you. In honor of National Read a New Book Month, I talk with Sara Lohse about how even life’s small, everyday moments make for powerful stories—especially in podcasting and content creation. You’ll hear about Sara’s unusual claim to fame (yes, she really told a tattoo story on a finance podcast!) and how learning to share smaller, personal stories is often more relatable than sweeping, dramatic narratives.
In this episode, you’ll walk away with:
A fresh approach to uncovering and telling your own authentic stories, even if you think your life isn’t exciting enough.
A simple technique for connecting the message you want to share to real-life moments—making your content more engaging and memorable.
Plus, Sara shares how she chooses what to read, and why stealing like an artist can unlock your creativity. Tune in to find inspiration and practical tips for making your story stand out by starting small.
Connect with Sara Lohse
Website: https://favoritedaughtermedia.com/open-this-book/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/favoritedaughtermedia/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/favoritedaughtermedia/
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Chapters
00:00 National Read a New Book Month
00:39 Sara’s Approach to Choosing Books
01:44 Trust Issues and Summer Camps
02:54 The Value of “Steal Like an Artist”
03:53 What Inspired “Open This Book”
05:26 The Art of Small Stories
07:10 Learning Storytelling Through Embarrassment
08:19 Why Small Moments Matter
10:33 Finding Your Story as a Creator
12:12 Making Stories Personal—Even with Fiction
14:58 Sharing Experience Versus Giving Advice
15:29 Lightning Round: Books, Coffee, and More
17:19 Where to Find Sara’s Work
17:47 Outro & Newsletter Invitation
If you’re ready to rethink what it means to be truly well—especially during Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month—this episode is for you. I sat down with Shruti Sethi, a cancer survivor, holistic nutritionist, and founder of Awana Health, to dig into some of the most overlooked signs and triggers when it comes to thyroid and overall health. You’ll hear Shruti’s personal diagnosis story, plus down-to-earth ways you can start tuning into your own body’s signals for better health outcomes.
Curious how emotions and stress can show up in your physical health? Shruti’s perspective on the mind-body connection just might change the way you listen to yourself. We also peel back the curtain on holistic nutrition strategies for reversing thyroid issues—something every podcaster or creator managing stress will appreciate. Plus, you’ll learn how paying attention to subtle everyday signs and prioritizing emotional well-being can make a real difference, both on and off the mic.
Connect with Shruti Sethi
Website: https://awaanahealth.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shruti_sethi_/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shruti-sethi-/
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Chapters
00:00 Kicking Off Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
01:05 Why Thyroid Cancer Awareness Matters
04:30 Shruti’s Diagnosis and First Steps
06:28 Connecting Stress and Hormonal Health
09:08 Processing Emotions During Illness
10:08 How Emotions Impact Physical Health
12:13 Body Signals Shruti Wishes She Noticed
13:10 Managing Fear of Cancer Relapse
14:39 Why Shruti Wrote The Healing Power Within
16:06 How Awana Health Supports Healing
17:53 Inspiring Thyroid Healing Strategies
18:47 Where to Find Shruti’s Book
19:16 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for ways to spark creativity in your music or storytelling, this episode is for you. I sat down with Christopher Kaufman, a fantasy author and composer, to talk about how music—especially the piano—fuels his imagination and shapes his unique approach to writing epic fantasy. You'll get to hear how combining music, narration, and art creates a truly immersive story experience, and why practicing piano can be a lot like flexing your imaginative muscles.
For podcasters or creators, you’ll walk away with ideas on:
How blending multiple creative forms (like music, narration, and art) can bring new life and emotion to your projects.
The parallel between disciplined practice—whether at the piano or in creative writing—and the freedom it unlocks for your imagination.
Whether you want to make your stories stand out or reignite your passion for music, there’s plenty of inspiration here for you.
Connect with Christopher Kaufman
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaufmantales/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoundArtists
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome & National Piano Month
00:36 Meet Christopher Kaufman
01:07 Piano’s Role in Creativity
02:10 Formal Training Meets Fantasy
03:12 How Stories and Music Come Together
04:45 Why Music Is Central to Storytelling
06:18 Early Influences and Mentors
08:04 How Music Changes Audience Experience
08:52 Music, Imagination, and Modern Life
10:46 Discipline, Freedom, and Imagination
12:45 Personal Stories in Creative Work
15:38 Sister’s Real-Life Hero Journey
16:45 Musical Influences Beyond Stravinsky
18:01 Lightning Round: Quick Creative Insights
21:03 Where to Find Christopher’s Work
22:16 Closing Remarks & Farewell
If you’ve ever wondered why picking up a fresh book can change more than just your reading list—or if you’ve been curious about writing one yourself—this episode is for you. I chat with Rodney Miles, known as “the Book Dude,” who has spent over 14 years helping authors publish their stories. We dig into how reading and writing new books keeps your mind healthy, and Rodney shares practical ways you can use reading as a springboard for your own writing—especially during National Reading New Book Month.
Podcasters and creators will find out:
Why learning something totally new (not just your area of expertise) can spark creativity and stave off burnout.
How writing a book can be deeply therapeutic and even refine your personal or business process. Rodney also shares free, hands-on resources for anyone interested in publishing, and explains how shorter attention spans and digital formats are actually leading to more books being read than ever before. If you’re ready to celebrate stories—your own included—give this one a listen.
Connect With Rodney Miles
Website: https://rodneymiles.com
Free Book Dude Bundle: https://rodneymiles.com
If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.
Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.
Sign up here: https://observeday.com/join
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Episode Intro
01:05 Rodney’s Current Book Picks
03:45 Why New Books Matter
07:37 Rodney’s Journey Into Publishing
10:22 Reinventing Life at 40 Through Books
12:17 How Writing is Therapeutic
15:35 Books in the Age of Short Content
19:42 Using Reading to Spark Writing
21:46 Resources for Aspiring Authors
25:05 Where to Find Rodney Miles
25:22 Closing and Newsletter Invitation
September is National Reading New Book Month, and in this episode, I’m sitting down with Michele Defilipo, a publishing veteran who knows all about how new stories come to life. If you’ve ever wondered how to professionally publish a book—or avoid common missteps as a creator—this episode has some essentials you won’t want to miss. Michele unpacks the differences between self-publishing, hybrid, and traditional models, helping you see which path might fit your next project. We also dig into the top mistakes new authors make (and how to sidestep them) and the best way to hire professionals who really know books inside and out. Whether you’re an indie author, a hopeful writer, or just curious about the publishing world, you’ll walk away knowing how to give your work a professional edge. Tune in for smart, down-to-earth advice on making your book stand out—and learn why every voice (including yours) is worth sharing.
Connect With Michele Defilipo
Website: https://1106design.com
Newsletter & Free Guide: https://1106design.com
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Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.
Sign up here: https://observeday.com/join
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating National Reading New Book Month
01:14 Michele’s Journey in the Book World
02:18 Why New Books and Voices Matter
03:18 What True Self Publishing Means
05:56 The Three Main Publishing Models
07:07 Choosing the Right Publishing Path
08:24 First-Time Self-Publishing Mistakes
09:27 What Makes a Book Professional
10:47 Finding Legitimate Publishing Experts
13:28 Fixing a Badly Published Book
15:30 Supporting Indie and Self-Published Authors
16:33 Michele’s Resources for Authors
17:35 Final Thoughts and Farewell
If you’re a creator looking for a real, honest talk about mental health, this episode is for you. On today’s show, I sit down with Brandon Held, host of the Life is Crazy podcast, in honor of National Suicide Prevention Month. Brandon shares his personal journey through trauma, loss, and rock bottom — and how he chose not only to survive, but to build something positive from his darkest moments.
We explore how creators can spot early signs when things aren’t right, for themselves and others. You’ll also hear Brandon’s approachable ideas for starting tough conversations and creating space for those around you. If you want to feel less alone or wonder how to support others without having all the answers, you’ll find both wisdom and practical steps here.
Takeaways for podcasters:
How to recognize subtle and obvious warning signs beyond “I’m fine.”
Ways to foster genuine, supportive conversations in your own community.
Tune in for gentle, encouraging advice you can use in your personal life and creative circles.
Connect With Brandon Held
Website: https://www.brandonheld.com/
If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.
Get more than what you hear—join the Observeday newsletter for thoughtful takeaways, extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show.
Sign up here: https://observeday.com/join
Chapters
00:00 Welcoming Brandon and Introductions
01:07 Brandon’s Story and Mission
02:14 Hitting Rock Bottom and Finding Hope
05:45 Choosing a Different Path Forward
06:09 Turning Survival Into Support
07:06 Signs Someone May Be Struggling
09:15 Breaking Down the Taboo
11:35 The First Steps Toward Healing
15:02 The Role of Community in Prevention
18:02 Teaching Resilience to the Next Generation
19:37 Final Takeaways and Ways to Connect
20:30 Brandon’s Links and Contact Info
21:10 Reflections and Closing Remarks