Startin' Some Ripples is the podcast that turns real stories into powerful life lessons. Hosted by Heather N. Wilde—author, educator, indie publisher, and trauma survivor—this is a space where authenticity and connection thrive. Heather’s journey, chronicled in her memoir "Tumbled," proves that tough experiences, self-reflection, and a little grit can lead to profound growth.
Each episode invites cohosts to share their stories or those submitted by listeners, uncovering practical tips for building a more enjoyable life. Together, we’ll celebrate victories, unpack challenges, and connect through the common threads of human experience. It’s a safe, supportive space where vulnerability becomes strength, and shared life lessons spark ripples of change.
Whether diving into a listener’s story, exploring personal growth, or just having a heartfelt conversation, Startin’ Some Ripples is here to inspire, uplift, and remind you that life’s greatest teacher is experience itself. Let’s make waves together!
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Startin' Some Ripples is the podcast that turns real stories into powerful life lessons. Hosted by Heather N. Wilde—author, educator, indie publisher, and trauma survivor—this is a space where authenticity and connection thrive. Heather’s journey, chronicled in her memoir "Tumbled," proves that tough experiences, self-reflection, and a little grit can lead to profound growth.
Each episode invites cohosts to share their stories or those submitted by listeners, uncovering practical tips for building a more enjoyable life. Together, we’ll celebrate victories, unpack challenges, and connect through the common threads of human experience. It’s a safe, supportive space where vulnerability becomes strength, and shared life lessons spark ripples of change.
Whether diving into a listener’s story, exploring personal growth, or just having a heartfelt conversation, Startin’ Some Ripples is here to inspire, uplift, and remind you that life’s greatest teacher is experience itself. Let’s make waves together!
In this episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by storyteller, advocate, and Hezzie Mae author Bella Tousignant for a conversation that’s as courageous as it is deeply human. Bella opens the door to her memoir, The Uninvited Passenger—a book that spans six decades of carrying, and finally embracing, her truth as a transgender woman. From a childhood in the 1950s to navigating marriage, secrecy, and ultimately transitioning later in life, Bella’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and the radical power of choosing yourself.
We dig into what it truly means to carry an “uninvited passenger” for most of your life, and the liberation and joy that come when you finally stop hiding. I’m so proud to know Bella and to help bring her voice to the world.
In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Jen Fox—an entrepreneur, a community builder, and honestly, the kind of woman who doesn’t just talk about it, she shows up. We get real about what it takes to lead from the heart, to stay grounded in your values, and to keep pushing forward when the outcome isn’t what you prayed for.
Jen opens up about the firecracker grandmother who lit her up with a passion for advocacy and inclusion—and how that legacy now lives on in her family’s brewery, Spiral, where they’re not just pouring beer, they’re pouring community.
This conversation is about heart, grit, and the messy, beautiful work of showing up anyway.
Sam Nelson returns to the podcast to discuss her personal journey as a neurodiversity advocate. She opens up about receiving her own ADHD diagnosis a little over two years ago and how she and her family had to navigate their own unique ADHD-related circumstances. Sam also discusses her new brand, "Neurodivergent Not Broken," which she created to share her experiences and build a community where people can feel supported and less alone.
I’ve been holding this story close for years. Floyd’s Baller wasn’t just waiting to be written—it was waiting for the right moment to be released. AD lived it. I wrote it. Together, we’ve protected it until now, when the world—and our youth—need it most. This is a hood philosopher’s truth, grit, and hope, finally stepping into the light.
In this episode, I’m joined by the vibrant and deeply inspiring Jebeh Edmunds, a storyteller, educator, entrepreneur, and soon-to-be-published author of The Orange Blossom. We have a heartfelt conversation about the power of pivoting and what it means to resurrect parts of ourselves that may have been silenced. From her childhood in Liberia, West Africa, to becoming a wife, mother, and business owner, Jebeh shares her journey of honoring her heritage and making a profound impact beyond the classroom.
In this episode, I revisit my very first podcast appearance as a guest on Jill Davis’s The Storyteller’s Porch. Long before I had a logo, I was already living the message—through handmade pillowcases, purpose-driven teaching, and a deep commitment to honoring the journey. Listening back, it’s wild to hear pre-publisher Heather, unsure of what was ahead, yet already rooted in the values that now define the brand.
In this episode, I’m joined by wellness entrepreneur, educator, and founder of The Power of Elderberries, Jessica Lowery, for a rich and heartfelt conversation about healing, intuition, and what happens when you say yes to your calling. From childhood illness to motherhood to becoming a business owner almost by accident, Jessica shares the deeply personal story behind her now beloved elderberry syrup—and how it all started with a need to care for her daughter.
We reflect on her journey of reconnecting with her body, trusting her instincts, and learning to fully show up—not just as a maker and healer, but as the face and voice of a mission-led business.
In this episode, I’m joined by chef, creative, and Third Coast Superior co-founder, Steven Peyer—for a conversation rooted in honesty, healing, and a little culinary magic.
Together, we reflect on what it means to rebuild: after a marriage, after a life shift, after a quiet nudge from the universe. From tarot cards to late-night intuition, Steven and I share how we found our way back—not as partners in love, but as partners in purpose.
This is a story about second chances, soulful business, and leading with the kind of integrity that leaves room for wonder.
In this episode, I’m joined by educator, equity advocate, and visionary changemaker Amy Spohn, who shares her evolving journey from high school science teacher to social impact entrepreneur. With a passion for DEI&B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) and a drive to create systemic change, Amy opens up about the defining experiences that inspired her newest initiative aimed at bridging gaps in financial literacy, healthcare navigation, and access to services for families in need.
In this episode, I’m joined once again by illustrator, designer, and creative scholar Chani Becker, who returns to share one of her favorite fairytales: Tatterhood. Chani guides us through a vivid retelling of this lesser-known Norwegian folktale and invites us to explore its powerful psychological symbolism through a Jungian lens.
As part of her MFA thesis in Illustration, Chani used Tatterhood as a springboard for a deeper conversation about the ego, shadow self, transformation, and wholeness. Together, we reflect on what this bold, wild heroine can teach us about embracing all parts of ourselves.
In this episode, I’m joined by registered psychiatric nurse and certified grief coach Adrienne Bender, who opens up about her powerful, personal journey through unimaginable loss and unwavering resilience. We explore her newly published memoir, The Almost Miracle Years, and the deeply human stories behind it—stories of surviving the deaths of both her children, and the strength it took to find hope and purpose in the aftermath.
With remarkable vulnerability and warmth, Adrienne shares the truth behind her grief, how she found meaning through suffering, and why she believes in celebrating life, even amidst heartbreak.
In this episode, I’m joined by intuitive guide, Hezzie Mae author, and energy worker Sacha Rondeau for a deep and expansive conversation on alignment, creativity, and reconnecting with the truth of who we are. We explore how pain, reflection, and choice shape our personal evolution—and how creativity, when channeled from within, becomes a tool for healing, awakening, and reconnection.
Together, we reflect on the energetic and spiritual layers behind Sacha’s channeled book, The Book of Love: Return to Oneness, and how aligned living can create space for real transformation.
In this episode, I sit down with artist, author, and creative guide Rachel Gilbertson to talk about what really happens when you commit to showing up for your creativity every day. We get honest about the 100-Day Creative Soul Retrieval Journey—the magic, the mess, and everything in between. This one’s for anyone craving deeper self-connection, creative freedom, and the reminder that it’s not about the outcome—it’s about the becoming.
In this episode, I’m joined by Brandi Fleming, a millennial with a remarkable story of transformation and self-discovery. We talk about Brandi’s journey from a chaotic home life to finding stability and pursuing her dreams, including moving to Spain and becoming an author. Brandi shares her experiences with overcoming depression, trusting her intuition, and the importance of self-awareness. We explore the significance of breaking cycles and setting personal goals, as well as the impact of intuitive guidance on one’s life path. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and the powerful ripple effects of sharing our stories.
In this episode, I’m joined by Chani Becker, a creative, a mama, and a storyteller. We talk about Chani’s background in art, her journey to becoming a creative professional, and her recent work in teaching and illustrating. She also shares insights into the psychological and archetypal symbolism in fairytales, specifically the story of "Blue Beard." We explore how these tales can offer profound self-understanding and even healing.
In this special birthday episode, we’re gettin’ real. I’m sharing 50 Years, 50 Truths—a mix of lighthearted laughs, gut-punch lessons, and the moments that shaped me. Some are sweet, some are raw, but all of them are honest. It’s my way of honoring the road I’ve walked and the ripples I hope to keep making as I cross the half-century mark.
In this episode, I’m joined by my daughter Evelyn. We talk about Evie’s journey through college, navigating relationships with peers and professors, and the pressures of graduating into an uncertain world. Evie shares advice on adjusting to college life, embracing change, and managing stress through personal hobbies and self-reflection.
In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and stylist, Sam Nelson, about the significant impact that understanding neurodivergence has had on their families. We discuss how awareness and accommodation of ADHD and sensory needs have transformed their parenting and professional lives. Sam shares experiences from her hairstyling career, emphasizing the importance of creating safe environments for neurodivergent individuals.
In this episode, I’m joined by Marci Hawkinson. We talk about Marci’s story of transforming her life, embracing values, and setting boundaries. In addition, we also get into personal growth journeys, life coaching, self-care, morning rituals, and managing responses to external chaos to maintain personal peace and authenticity in an ever-noisy world.
During a recent YWCA board meeting, I felt the weight of a shared truth—fear and stress are pressing in on all of us. I see it. I feel it. And I refuse to let it have the final say. In times like these, we need spaces that ground us, connect us, and remind us of our own power. That’s why I’m answering the call, stepping into the storm as a light for those who need it. One way I’m doing that is by opening a space every Wednesday night—an open writing group where we can show up, find connection, and turn fear into fuel. We don’t have to do this alone.
Startin' Some Ripples is the podcast that turns real stories into powerful life lessons. Hosted by Heather N. Wilde—author, educator, indie publisher, and trauma survivor—this is a space where authenticity and connection thrive. Heather’s journey, chronicled in her memoir "Tumbled," proves that tough experiences, self-reflection, and a little grit can lead to profound growth.
Each episode invites cohosts to share their stories or those submitted by listeners, uncovering practical tips for building a more enjoyable life. Together, we’ll celebrate victories, unpack challenges, and connect through the common threads of human experience. It’s a safe, supportive space where vulnerability becomes strength, and shared life lessons spark ripples of change.
Whether diving into a listener’s story, exploring personal growth, or just having a heartfelt conversation, Startin’ Some Ripples is here to inspire, uplift, and remind you that life’s greatest teacher is experience itself. Let’s make waves together!
