Real Things Living

What if the challenges you face could be reframed into stories of love, resilience, and belonging? In this episode, Brigitte Cutshall speaks with Kathi Lockwood, author, minister, and mother, whose incredible journey of turning personal pain into powerful stories inspires connection and healing. Kathi’s life is a testament to resilience. From adopting her son through what she calls “divine intervention” to losing her husband unexpectedly and becoming a single parent, she has faced profound challenges with grace and purpose. As an author of three children’s books, Kathi weaves her experiences into narratives that address adoption, addiction, and grief, helping families navigate these complex topics with love, compassion, and understanding. Takeaways: The Power of Stories: Kathi shares how her children's books tackle sensitive topics like adoption, loss, and addiction, helping children and adults navigate difficult emotions with compassion and understanding. Resilience Through Wonder: Learn how Kathi's

Think empathy is a soft skill? Think again. Maria Ross reveals how it’s the secret weapon for effective leadership, stronger teams, and lasting success. She shares her journey from experiencing a life-changing health issue to becoming an empathy advocate and author. Maria also talks about how empathy is not just a personal virtue but a powerful tool to enhance professional success and foster meaningful connections. 3 Key Takeaways: Empathy is Scalable:Maria reveals how organizations can embed empathy into their culture through intentional design. By training teams and creating policies centered on patient and family feedback, organizations can build a framework of care and connection that feels authentic and impactful. Empathy Requires Strength:Empathy isn’t about being emotional or lenient; it’s a strength that requires self-awareness, clear communication, and decisive action. Leaders who balance empathy with performance create an environment where people thrive. The Five Pillars of Empathy:Maria ou

Can small physical changes lead to big emotional breakthroughs? In this episode, bestselling author Janice Kaplan, discusses her newest book, What Your Body Knows About Happiness, and shares how tuning into your body’s signals can unlock a deeper sense of happiness and well-being. Our physical sensations, environment, and simple actions profoundly impact our mental state and overall happiness. She explains the fascinating interplay between body and mind, offering science-backed strategies to elevate our well-being. Three Key Takeaways: Shift Your Perspective Through Physical Cues: Learn how small changes—like sitting up straight or holding a warm beverage—can influence emotions and encourage positivity. Curiosity as a Superpower: Tune in to your body’s signals with curiosity instead of judgment. From craving chocolate to dealing with anxiety, asking “why” can be transformative. The Power of Nature and Environment: Surrounding yourself with greenery, water, or even flowers can dramatically enhance we

What if aiming higher isn't the risky choice, but the safest? Christian Ray Flores, a refugee-turned-pop-star, entrepreneur, and high-performance coach, shares his remarkable story of resilience, transformation, and ambition. Christian’s journey proves that no dream is too big if you're willing to aim higher and embrace growth through challenges. Takeaways: * Resilience is a choice that can lead to growth. * Empathy is crucial for understanding driven individuals. * America offers unique opportunities that should be appreciated. * Diversity in perspectives enhances creativity and problem-solving. * Having mentors accelerates personal and professional growth. * Aim higher to reduce competition and unlock potential. * Leadership requires empathy and understanding of diverse backgrounds. * Personal experiences shape our ability to connect with others. * Continuous learning and guidance are essential for success Inspired by Christian’s story? Join the waitlist for his upcoming book https://bigreasonstolove

Change is one of life’s only constants, yet it often feels like an uphill battle. What if, instead of resisting it, you learned to embrace it? Lisa DeAngelis is an author, speaker, and holistic change practitioner who helps individuals and organizations navigate life's complexities. With a focus on building resilience, she offers a fresh perspective and finding strength in adaptability. Her book, Embracing the Unknown, has inspired countless readers to redefine their relationship with uncertainty and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Lisa's work combines deep introspection with practical tools, empowering her audience to step into the future with confidence and purpose. Three Key Takeaways: Redefining Change: Shift your perspective on change from something to fear to an opportunity to grow and realign with your core values. The ARC of Growth: Adaptability, Resilience, and Courage are key tools for navigating life’s uncertainties. Learn how to build and strengthen these traits daily.

In this episode of Real Things Living, Brigitte Cutshall talks with CJ Grace—author, humorist, former BBC journalist, and cancer survivor—about thriving in the face of life’s toughest challenges. CJ shares how humor, creativity, and curiosity helped her overcome cancer twice and navigate personal turmoil, including divorce. Key Takeaways: Humor as a Healing Tool: CJ emphasizes the importance of finding humor in dark times to make difficult situations more bearable. The Power of Information: She advocates for being an informed patient, encouraging curiosity and personalized approaches to health decisions. Community and Creativity: Surrounding yourself with supportive people and exploring creative outlets can be transformative during challenging times. Listen to CJ’s journey and insights—find her books and more at cjauthor.com.

"Empathy and understanding are crucial in addressing social issues." In this enlightening conversation, Jeff Frazier shares his incredible journey from being an Army veteran to a humanitarian working in Haiti. He discusses his experiences with philanthropy, the challenges of economic development in Haiti, and the harrowing ordeal of being kidnapped for 43 days. Jeff emphasizes the importance of resilience, empathy, and understanding in overcoming trauma and highlights the role of his wife in negotiating his release. The conversation also touches on the realities of life in Haiti, the impact of gangs, and the need for kindness and humility in addressing complex social issues. Learn more at https://stimpack.org/

Susan Servais, a retired CEO and author, talks about her mother's memoir 'Escape from Dachau,' which recounts her family's harrowing experiences during the Holocaust. The discussion explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the importance of sharing historical narratives to educate future generations. Susan reflects on her family's journey, the bravery displayed in the face of adversity, and the need to recognize and learn from the past to prevent history from repeating itself. - Bravery can manifest in unexpected ways during crises. - Resilience is often learned through adversity. - History must be taught to prevent repetition of past mistakes. - Sharing stories can help heal trauma and educate others. Link to buy the book - https://amzn.to/4fKKlPl Connect with Susan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanservais

John Parsons and Brigitte Cutshall explore the multifaceted world of writing, ghostwriting, and the impact of digital versus print media. The conversation emphasizes the enduring value of storytelling and the evolving landscape of books in the digital age. Takeaways: Books played a significant role in shaping perspectives. Print media offers a deeper neurological engagement than digital. Investing in quality production enhances reader experience. AI presents challenges but also opportunities for writers. Authenticity in writing is crucial for connecting with readers. Crafting engaging nonfiction requires careful structuring. Visual elements can enhance the readability of a book. Collaboration is essential in the writing and publishing process. Building an author platform is vital before publishing. The future of storytelling will encompass various formats and media. If you're a writer or creator looking to share your message authentically, connect with John through his website https://

What if life's hardest blows were actually guiding you toward a higher purpose? Rob Rene’s journey from athlete to health advocate reveals how faith, resilience, and natural solutions can transform lives. Rob is the CEO of Exodus Strong and a faith and health advocate. Rob shares his extraordinary journey from a passion for running to a life-altering accident. Following a career in sales and a difficult period induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rob discovered the power of natural health solutions. He emphasizes the importance of faith, health awareness, and holistic approaches to well-being while advocating for natural solutions. Rob is also the host of I am Pain Free Podcast. Check out https://exodusstrong.com/ where you can learn more about his mission.

"Starting with one small change can lead to significant improvements." Brigitte Cutshall and Kathleen Klug explore the multifaceted nature of holistic health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Kathleen shares her personal journey into holistic health, the importance of simplicity in health practices, and the role of mindset and relationships in achieving well-being. They discuss the impact of social media on self-perception and the necessity of curiosity and open-mindedness in health. Takeaways Holistic health encompasses body, mind, and spirit. Simplicity is key in changing health behaviors. Curiosity fosters open-mindedness and growth. Comparison to others can hinder personal joy. Integrated health looks at all areas of life. Mindset plays a crucial role in health. Relationships can significantly impact well-being. Social media can distort self-perception. Health knowledge is constantly evolving. Learn more at https://kathleenklug.com/ Where to get the b

We dive into the incredible story of Georges Cordoba, a stage-four melanoma and brain cancer survivor who defied the odds through faith, mindset, and holistic health.Georges opens up about his decade-long battle, sharing key insights on what it takes to overcome adversity and live a life with purpose.Key Takeaways:​Faith in Action: Georges emphasizes that faith without action is ineffective. He made radical lifestyle changes, trusting both his intuition and holistic practices while staying grounded in his faith.​Four Pillars of Wellness: Georges advocates balancing four key areas—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Each “leg of the table” must be strong for true well-being and disease prevention.​Simple Changes for Big Impact: Georges highlights that prevention doesn’t require extreme diets or intense routines. Small habits, such as chewing food thoroughly and mindful eating, can significantly improve health.Call to Action:Georges reminds us that healing starts from within and urges listeners t

Igor Ledochowski shares his personal journey from a career in law to dedicating his life to hypnotherapy, and is the co-founder of the Hypnosis Training Academy. He dives into topics such as the power of hypnosis for personal development, the importance of aligning your internal and external environment, and how affirmations can shape your unconscious mind. Igor provides insights into how hypnosis can help you access untapped potentials and transform your mindset for a more fulfilling life. Whether you're dealing with personal challenges or striving to reach new levels of success, this conversation offers valuable perspectives and practical exercises to help you harness the power of hypnosis. Learn more at https://hypnosistrainingacademy.com/

Grace Redman shares her inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of having a coach or mentor, and the key differences between the two. Grace discusses the significance of mindset, gratitude, and how to navigate change and unexpected challenges. She emphasizes the power of presence and connection, using examples from nature and the influence of dogs in her life. She also shares her insights on dealing with failures, setting boundaries, and the role of clarity, commitment, and consistency in achieving success. Grace's story is a testament to resilience, emotional freedom, and the fulfillment found through personal growth and helping others. Check out https://www.daretoachieve.com/

Ralph Pasquariello is a cybersecurity expert. The discussion covers the critical aspects of cybersecurity, the frequent underreporting of data breaches, the role of artificial intelligence in cyber threats, and the importance of both preventive measures and adequate insurance for businesses of all sizes. Ralph emphasizes the need for employee training. He also explains how he is working to fix long-standing issues in the industry through initiatives like the Tech Collective's CARE program. TAKEAWAYS: Cybersecurity is crucial for all businesses, regardless of size. Many data breaches go unreported, skewing public perception of risk. Employee training is essential to mitigate cyber threats. Multi-factor authentication is a must for all online accounts. Regular assessments and benchmarks can help companies understand their risk. Awareness and proactive measures are key to preventing cyber incidents. Definitely check out https://CARE-report.com/

Elysia Everett Burns is the founder of Friendly Like Me, an app designed to help individuals with disabilities and accessibility needs find suitable places to visit. Elysia shares her personal journey that led her to create the app, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse accessibility needs and the economic benefits of inclusivity for businesses. She also highlights the challenges of navigating legislation and the importance of community support in driving change. Check out https://friendlylikeme.com TAKEAWAYS: * Friendly Like Me helps people find accessible places. * One in four Americans have a disability. * Accessibility needs are diverse and multifaceted. * Personal experiences can drive advocacy and innovation. * The app allows users to customize their search for accessibility. * Businesses can benefit economically from being accessible. * Empathy is crucial in addressing accessibility issues. * Legislation alone is not enough to ensure accessibility.

What happens when your life is turned upside down—first by a career crisis, then by a cancer diagnosis? Rachel Minion, founder of Rockstarr & Moon and Beyond Basic Needs, shares how she built a marketing company from the ashes of a family business and turned her battle with cancer into a movement for supporting others. She turned adversity into an opportunity to help others, all while staying grounded in her mission to make a difference. 3 Takeaways: Adaptability fuels growth – Rachel’s pivot from the printing industry to marketing highlights how embracing change can lead to new opportunities, even in challenging times. Small actions can make a big impact – Through her nonprofit, Rachel provides chemo care kits, showing that even small acts of kindness can uplift cancer patients during their hardest moments. Community and curiosity matter – Whether in business or health, Rachel emphasizes the power of asking questions and staying connected with those who can offer support. Call to Action:If yo

Wynford Dore is the founder of Zing Performance & Education Development. He's on a mission to transform the way we think about health. Wynford shares his personal journey of becoming dedicated to researching brain development after his daughter struggled with severe learning and mental health issues. Wynford emphasizes the need to shift our approach to mental health, focusing on natural ways to enhance mental capacity and resilience. (1) the importance of understanding neurodiversity (2) the impact of trauma on the brain (3) innovative methods to improve mental health. His work aims to provide affordable solutions for those facing learning difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more, highlighting the potential for a significant positive impact on individuals and families. Learn more at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braindevelopment/ https://podfol.io/profile/wynford-dore

Lesley Seymour, founder of Covey Club, shares her journey of starting the club and the importance of creating a supportive community for women over 40. Covey Club evolved from an online publication to a club that offers workshops, pods, and live events. Lesley emphasizes the power of women coming together, sharing their knowledge, and supporting each other in their personal and professional reinventions. She also discusses the need for women to ask for help and the importance of continuous learning and curiosity. Takeaways: (1) Covey Club provides a supportive community for women over 40 who are going through personal and professional reinventions. (2) The club offers workshops, pods, and live events to help women connect, learn, and support each other. (3) Women often have a hard time asking for help, but it is important to reach out and seek support from others. (4) Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for personal growth and navigating life's challenges. Learn more at: https://www.co

Jason Silver, author of the book 'Your Grass is Greener,' shares his journey of coping with grief and reevaluating his relationship with work. He emphasizes the importance of using work as a positive driver in life and making small changes to improve the work experience. Takeaways: Recognize the importance of using work as a positive driver in life. Make small changes to improve the work experience. Create a 'not-to-do' list and say no to unnecessary tasks. Recognize your agency and make intentional choices in work and personal life. Improve productivity, communication, and prioritization. Check out https://yourgrassisgreener.com