Real Things Living

Afarin Bellisario shares her unique journey from a high tech to historical fiction author. She discusses the motivations behind her latest book, Silenced Whispers, and reflects on the intersection of technology, culture, and human resilience. Afarin's story highlights the power of storytelling to connect past and present, offering insights into how societal changes shape individual lives. 3 Main Takeaways: Balancing Dual Passions: She explains how her love for both technology and writing shaped her career, illustrating the possibility of pursuing multiple passions simultaneously. Cultural Reflections in Fiction: Her novel Silenced Whispers explores historical and cultural changes in Iran, drawing parallels to contemporary societal shifts. Resilience and Empowerment: She emphasizes the importance of resilience, particularly for women, in navigating challenges and breaking free from societal constraints. If Afarin's story resonated with you, share this episode with friends or leave a revie

"Compassion is lacking in the world and is the key to resolving conflicts and inequalities." Ali Horriyat is the founder of Compassiviste and author of over 13 books. Ali shares his journey from the finance world to a life focused on compassion. He realized that money and material possessions did not bring lasting happiness and decided to use his excess wealth for philanthropy. Ali believes that compassion is lacking in the world and that many conflicts and inequalities stem from a lack of compassion. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and making a positive impact in the world. Ali also discusses the need for change in various industries, such as publishing and healthcare, to be more environmentally friendly and compassionate. Learn more at https://compassiviste.com/

Justin Jones-Fosu is the founder of Work Meaningful and author of "I Respectfully Disagree." Justin shares the inspiration behind his book, emphasizing the importance of building bridges, understanding different perspectives, and fostering respectful disagreement. Tune in to learn about the five pillars of bridging divides and the significance of maintaining an inclusive mindset in our interactions. Check out https://howtorespectfullydisagree.com/ Connect with Justin on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/iworkmeaningful/

Fred Talisman is a seasoned business consultant and marriage counselor with over 25 years of experience. He shares his journey from learning about communication and psychology at a young age to facing personal challenges. Effective communication and timing are crucial in relationships. Creating mutually satisfying agreements can prevent resentment. Self-care is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. Practicing positive honesty and making choices that support your partner's emotional well-being can strengthen the relationship. Check out Fred's free pop-up podcast episodes at https://relationshipmagic.com.

Dr. Tasha Golden is an international leader in arts and health with a PhD in public health. She shares her unique journey from being a singer-songwriter to becoming a health scientist and thought leader in creativity and well-being. Her initiatives include the "Arts on Prescription" program and "Project Uncaged," which use arts to enhance public health and support incarcerated girls respectively. The conversation highlights the profound connection between creative expression and mental health, emphasizing the importance of integrating arts into healthcare for holistic well-being. Check out https://tashagolden.com/realthingsliving

Linda Fisk, CEO of LeadHERship Global, discusses with Brigitte Cutshall the importance of community and collaboration in developing strong leadership skills. They explore the concept of resilience, particularly in the context of women's unique leadership qualities like empathy and emotional intelligence. Linda also shares her personal journey overcoming a childhood stutter to become a successful public speaker and leader, highlighting the value of grit and mental toughness in achieving long-term goals. Learn more at https://leadhershipglobal.com/

Have you ever felt a connection with your dog that's deeper than words can describe? Michelle Slater is an author, dog lover, and president of the MayApple Center for the Arts and Humanities. She discusses her book "Soulmate Dog," which delves into the profound relationships between humans and their canine companions, particularly the bond with her German Shepherd, Brady. Three Key Takeaways: Profound Human-Dog Relationships: Michelle emphasizes the deep and impactful connections humans can have with their dogs, which she terms as "soulmate dogs." These relationships can be as significant and meaningful as those between humans. Animal Communication and Care: The importance of animal communication in understanding and meeting dogs' needs, especially regarding medical and emotional support. Michelle shares how this helped her support Brady through a severe illness. Validating Grief and Emotional Support: Michelle discusses the legitimacy of grieving the loss of a pet and h

Holly Bertone is a trailblazer who transitioned from a career at the FBI to becoming a leading voice in holistic health for women. Holly's journey is nothing short of remarkable after battling cancer and chronic illness. She emphasizes the importance of holistic healing, addressing not just the physical symptoms but also the mental and emotional aspects. Holly's "Rocky Framework" guides women to make peace with their past, take responsibility for their health, and create a sustainable, vibrant future. 3 Key Takeaways: Healing is Multifaceted: Disease is often the result of years of chronic inflammation from diet, toxins, stress, and trauma. True healing involves addressing these root causes through a holistic approach that combines lifestyle changes, nutrition, and mental well-being. Small Steps Lead to Sustainable Change: Instead of drastic diets or workouts, focus on small, consistent changes that you enjoy. Empowerment Through Self-Responsibility: Take ownership of your health

Vicki Goodman is an author, singer, and violinist who transformed her grief into a journey of optimism and insight. After the loss of her husband Sam to cancer, Vicki experienced unexpected clarity and serendipitous events that inspired her to write a book about her revelations. Here are three key takeaways: (1) Embracing Optimism Through Loss: Vicki shares how she was unexpectedly flooded with optimism after Sam's passing, leading her to embrace new opportunities and experiences. (2) Insights on Life and Death: Raised in a secular family, Vicki's quest for understanding led her to profound insights about the afterlife and the enduring nature of the soul. (3) Transformative Power of Creativity: Through writing and music, Vicki found a therapeutic outlet that not only helped her cope with grief but also allowed her to share her journey and inspire others. Learn more at https://vickiparisgoodman.com/ Get the book - https://inspiredgrief.com/book/

Lauren Shippy is the powerhouse behind StoryWork and author of "Seen, Known, and Heard." Lauren's journey from navigating the fast-paced world of startups to building a thriving business centered on leadership, strategy, and marketing is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and powerful connection. Key Takeaways: (1) Unlocking Clarity: Learn how to articulate your unique value and connect deeply with your audience. (2) Balancing Life: Discover the importance of integrating personal and professional life for a more fulfilling and effective experience. (3) Adapting to Change: Embrace the need for continuous improvement and learn how to navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. Learn more at: https://www.storywork.co/ https://www.laurencshippy.com/

Renzo Del Castillo discusses his journey into art and poetry; how his childhood experiences and exposure to books and art allowed him to travel through imagination despite financial constraints. He emphasizes the complexity of truth and the role of art in understanding different perspectives. Renzo also talks about the therapeutic role of poetry in coping with personal losses, as well as the importance of empathy and dialogue in addressing global issues. Renzo's poetry book "Still" was born from a need to process profound loss and find connection in stillness. Learn more at https://renzodelcastillo.com/ Link to the book, "Still: A Collection of Poetry" - https://amzn.to/4ceJMvH

Heather Eck is a talented multimedia abstract artist and writer who uses the power of color to transform lives. She combines art and healing to create vibrant, soul-soothing pieces that resonate deeply with her clients. Heather’s journey is a testament to the profound impact of creativity and energy work on personal well-being. Join us as we explore her unique process and the inspiring stories behind her most meaningful projects. 3 Key Takeaways: (1) Healing Art: Heather's creations are more than beautiful—they’re therapeutic. (2) Color and Energy: Learn how specific colors influence emotional and spiritual healing. (3) Personal Transformation: Hear real-life stories of clients who found peace and inspiration through Heather’s work. Learn more about her at https://heathereck.com

Cathy Derksen shares her journey from overcoming personal adversities to creating a platform, Inspired Tenacity, dedicated to uplifting women through collaboration, support, and storytelling. Takeaways: (1) Overcoming Adversity: Learn how Cathy transitioned from a toxic marriage and work environment to becoming a successful financial planner and entrepreneur. (2) Power of Storytelling: Discover the unique ways storytelling can be therapeutic and empower women to connect and support each other. (3) Leadership and Empowerment: Understand the importance of leadership in women’s empowerment and how Cathy's anthology book projects provide both therapeutic and marketing benefits. Connect with Cathy at https://inspiredtenacity.com and on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathyderkseninspiredtenacity/

Kaycee Parker is on a mission to inspire and empower others living with a chronic illness. She is an entrepreneur, designer, and writer who has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for over 30 years. Kaycee shares her emotional and practical experiences managing the chronic condition, shedding light on the physical and emotional challenges she faces daily. Main Takeaways: (1) Resilience and Adaptation: Kaycee's journey illustrates the importance of resilience and adapting to life’s challenges, turning a chronic illness into a source of strength and inspiration. (2) Faith and Perspective: Kaycee shares how her faith provided a new perspective on her illness, helping her to see it as a way to glorify God and inspire others. (3) Practical Support: Through her book "Devotions on Diabetes" and diabetic-friendly recipes, Kaycee offers practical support and resources for others managing diabetes, emphasizing the power of community and shared experiences. Learn more at https://devotionsondiabetes.co

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the chaos around you? Corey Lyon Folsom shares how we can find inner peace and strength amidst the noise of modern life. Corey is a highly regarded Love and Relationship coach, and the author of "Soul Statements: A Love Coach's Guide to Successful Communication." Main Takeaways: Managing Negative Self-Talk: Corey emphasizes the importance of recognizing and rewriting our inner narratives. By scripting positive "soul statements," we can replace unhelpful thoughts with affirmations that reflect our true strengths and values. The Power of Nature and Solitude: Drawing from his experience as a wilderness guide, Corey shares how spending time in nature and embracing moments of solitude can help us gain clarity, manage frustration, and reconnect with our inner selves. Effective Communication and Kindness: Corey and Brigitte discuss the crucial role of clear, empathetic communication in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships. They

Are you tired of battling chronic pain that feels never-ending? You're not alone. Millions of people struggle with pain that medications can't fully address. This episode offers a glimmer of hope with a story of resilience and a path towards healing. Meet Janet Hudson, a retired Air Force nurse practitioner who battled chronic pain and autoimmune issues for a staggering 25 years. Janet also shares actionable wellness tips, emphasizing the significance of self-care practices in conjunction with innovative treatments. Key Takeaways: Don't just rely on medication: Janet found traditional medicine offered limited solutions with potential side effects. She recommends a more holistic approach that considers factors like diet, exercise, and sleep. Explore alternative therapies: Janet credits LifeWave patches, which use light therapy to activate copper peptides and stimulate stem cell activity, for significantly reducing her pain and improving her overall health. Listen to your body: While Janet

Ever wondered how creativity can be a powerful tool for healing and happiness? Karen DeLoach is an artist and creativity specialist. She emphasizes the benefits of creativity, finding joy, and engaging in activities that stimulate the brain. The conversation explores personal experiences, the impact of art therapy, and the role of creativity in mental and emotional well-being. Main Takeaways: Engaging both sides of the brain through creative expression can lead to healing and emotional well-being. Creativity is accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level or background, and can be expressed in various forms. Overcoming self-doubt and embracing creativity can bring joy and fulfillment, contributing to overall mental health and happiness. She has a three episode podcast that dives more into creativity and how you can engage. No cost. Learn more at - http://www.getcreativewithkaren.com/ And check out her book "How to Draw: Exercises for Skill Development" - https://a.co/d/gsh8zk5

Feeling lost and stuck in a routine? We're joined by entrepreneur and reality TV star Kelly Chase, who talks about crafting your own path, overcoming roadblocks, and finding success on your terms. She shares her insights and experiences with authenticity and vulnerability. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology, diversity, and the significance of storytelling in connecting and learning from others. Get ready for a dose of inspiration and practical advice to embrace the detours and build a life you love! Here are 3 key takeaways you won't want to miss: Embrace your unique story: Don't be afraid to carve your own path and leverage your unique experiences to build a brand or business. It's okay to pivot: Your journey won't always be linear. Be prepared to adjust your approach as you learn and grow. Self-care is essential: Prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Learn more at www.chaselifewithkelly.com  Instagram - @chaselifewithkel

Marc Scheff shares his journey to experiencing a significant life change during COVID that led him to coaching. This helped him to create a supportive environment for change. He discusses the impact of coaching on personal growth, overcoming challenges, and finding one’s purpose through creative exercises. He provides insights into his coaching techniques that foster creativity and purpose, aiming to help individuals and leaders make profound life and career shifts. Learn more at: https://www.unleashcreativity.club/ https://www.marcscheffcoaching.com/

Jose Pereira, a former CEO of Citgo Petroleum, shares his harrowing experience of being held hostage in Venezuela for 1,775 days (basically 5 years). Despite the challenges, Jose and his five colleagues, known as the CITGO6, relied on resilience, teamwork, faith, and connection to overcome the ordeal. Jose now uses their story to inspire others to navigate adversity with the right mindset, support, and spiritual connection. Here are three key takeaways: Resilience in Adversity: Jose emphasizes the importance of mindset and support in overcoming challenges. He and his fellow captives formed a strong bond, supporting each other mentally, emotionally, and physically throughout their ordeal. Spiritual Connection: Jose discovered the power of spirituality during his captivity, finding solace and strength through prayer, meditation, and connecting with God. Leadership and Communication: Through their shared experience, Jose and his fellow captives learned valuable lessons in leadership, empathy, and commu