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In this episode, Paula is joined by the remarkable Illana Burk, a coach and consultant with a passion for helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs thrive. Illana shares her journey from being a dancer to becoming a successful business mentor, diving into her philosophy on building values-based businesses. The conversation is filled with practical advice, laughter, and a fresh perspective on modern entrepreneurship.
Key Points That We Discuss:
Illana Burk's background and journey from dancer to business mentor. The concept of 'feral preneurs' and how it differs from traditional solopreneurship. Practical advice on overcoming common 'stuck points' in solopreneurship and entrepreneurship. The significance of aligning your business with personal values over following mainstream business advice. How Illana successfully monetizes her podcast through live coaching sessions. Insight into Illana's 'Go For the No' program, which encourages embracing rejection as part of the growth process. The impact of moving to Portugal on Illanaâs personal and professional life, highlighting the importance of life-work balance.Additional Resources:
Visit Illana Burk's website Check out Illanaâs podcast 'Good Business with Illana Burk' Join the 'Go For the No' program Information about the 'Compassion Quest' retreat in Danville, California on August 17, 2024Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Jump Start Your Joy
00:17 Meet Illana Burk: Coach and Consultant
01:09 Warm Welcome and Episode Overview
03:08 Illana's Earliest Sparks of Joy
05:25 Journey from Dancer to Business Mentor
08:55 Challenges and Realizations in Entrepreneurship
15:28 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business -
Liminal space is defined as the transitional space that can be physical, metaphorical, spiritual, or emotional. Pulling from examples in Disneyland, Proper People, & Station Eleven I'm looking at how we navigate through liminal space when we encounter it.
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/02/liminal-space/
In this episode, I'm discussing:
- the definition of liminal space
- the four types of liminal space: physical, emotional, metaphorical, and spiritual
- examples of liminal space in every day life
- intentional liminal space and happenstance liminal space, and how they are different
- 5 ways to work with liminal space when you encounter it in your life
Resources
Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ
What is Liminal Space on "A Liminal Space"
The Impact of Liminal Space on Mental Health on Very Well Mind
The Proper People on YouTube
Liminal Space at Disney Parks by Offhand Disney
Station Eleven on HBO Max
Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube
Love the show, and what to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
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Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/navigating-politics-and-self-care-with-expert-tami-hackbarth/
In this episode, I'm joined by Tami Hackbarth, a seasoned author, activist, and advocate for 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care. Together, they explore the crucial intersection of self-care and activism, especially vital in todayâs political climate. Tami shares practical strategies for sustaining joy and energy, even when the world feels overwhelming.
Key Takeaways:
Self-Care is Essential: Prioritize self-care to maintain your energy and effectiveness in activism. Incorporate daily practices such as walking, meditation, and screen-free time to manage stress and enhance your well-being.
Know Your Values: Use your core values as a compass for your actions and decisions, helping you stay grounded and focused amidst political challenges.
Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Utilize deep canvassing techniques to have constructive, impactful discussions about politics, fostering understanding and collaboration within your community.
Resources
Tami Hackbarth's website and podcast
Tami's book: The Essential Guide to 100% Guilt Free Self Care
The Persuaders by Anand Giridharadas
The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
Words to Win By with Anat Shenker-Osorio (podcast)
The NewsWorthy with Erica Mandy (podcast)
Resistance Live with Elizabeth Cronise McLaughlin (YouTube)Mobilize US â Find and join local activism events.
Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 Deep Dive into Self-Care and Activism 03:51 Practical Self-Care Tips 06:43 Meditation and Self-Compassion 10:56 Political Landscape and Activism 20:42 Effective Communication in Activism 27:56 Discovering Trusted News Sources 29:27 The Impact of News on Mental Health 32:45 Understanding Stress Responses 34:35 The Importance of Self-Care 37:53 Deep Canvassing and Political Engagement 39:09 Building Community and Connection 42:31 Tami Hackbarth's Offerings 51:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps -
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/transforming-life-and-leadership-through-kindness-with-lara-heacock
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, host Paula Jenkins welcomes Lara Heacock, executive coach, and Editor-in-Chief of Kind Over Matter. We discuss the practices of kindness and joy, and how these have become essential tools in navigating today's world. Lara shares her journey from corporate America to becoming an advocate for kindness, including tangible tips for practicing self-kindness and integrating these values into professional settings. With a deep dive into the emotional facets of empathy, integrity, and resilience, this conversation offers valuable insights the audience can apply in their daily lives.
Resources:
Kind Over Matter: https://kindovermatter.com/
Lara Heacock's website: https://laraheacock.com/
Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock: https://amzn.to/3Y9PrPI
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 05:01 Practices of Kindness and Joy 31:19 Self-Kindness and Practical Tips 24:18 Kindness in Leadership 40:06 Final Thoughts and Conclusion -
Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/08/return-to-nature-emma-loewe/
Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this monthâs theme of âfinding home,â and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.
In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:
How the idea of this book came about A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature. My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees. What a forest bath is, and how to experience one The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming wayResources
Emma Loeweâs book, âReturn to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Usâ on Bookshop.org
Emma Loeweâs website
Emma Loewe on Instagram
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Reflecting on Nature's Restorative Power
01:04 Engaging with the Audience
02:24 Introducing Emma Lowey and Her Book
03:18 Emma's Early Inspirations and Environmental Path
04:26 The Personal and Passionate Journey of Writing
06:21 The Impact of Nature on Mental Health
09:20 The Science Behind Nature's Benefits 09:48 Creative Processes During the Pandemic
12:14 Exploring Different Landscapes 13:35 The Healing Power of Water and Forests
23:08 Practical Steps for Environmental Action
26:21 Emma's Personal Practices and Final Thoughts
31:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
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Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/celebrating-37-years-of-joy-an-interview-with-retiring-educator-molly-barnes/
In this heartfelt episode, Paula interviews Molly Barnes, the beloved principal and superintendent of Sunol Glenn Elementary. Molly shares her passionate journey in education, reflecting on the joy and challenges of her career. Listeners get an inside look at her unique approach to fostering a welcoming and enthusiastic school environment. Discover the powerful moments and intentional choices that have made Sunol Glenn Elementary a special place for students, parents, and staff alike. As Molly prepares for her well-deserved retirement, she discusses the importance of building strong community relationships, supporting educators, and creating joyful learning experiences. Tune in to hear moving stories, valuable insights, and the impactful legacy of a dedicated educator who truly made a difference.
Resources:
Molly receiving the Woman of the Year Award from Alex Lee
Coverage of Molly's retirement in the Pleasanton Weekly
Others:
Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee
Here are some of the key moments in this interview:
Earliest Sparks of Joy in Education: Molly Barnes talks about her childhood experiences that ignited her passion for education, including her love for school supplies and the excitement of preparing for a new school year.
Impact of Political Climate in Education: Molly reflects on the challenges posed by the political environment and its influence on the school district, emphasizing the importance of keeping the focus on students' well-being and learning.
Importance of Community in Education: Molly shares the significance of building a strong sense of community within the school, highlighting the roles of teachers, parents, and students in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Molly Barnes' Retirement Plans: As she approaches retirement, Molly discusses her future plans, including spending time with her family and potentially volunteering in local schools to continue her passion for education.
Supporting Educators and Teachers: Both Paula and Molly discuss the critical role parents and the community can play in supporting teachers and school staff. They emphasize the need for understanding, communication, and collaboration to foster a positive educational experience for all.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:19 Meet Molly Barnes: A Celebrated Educator
02:13 Molly's Early Sparks of Joy
03:11 The Excitement of Back-to-School
06:20 The Role of Community in Education
09:19 Navigating Political Challenges
13:03 A Unique Commuter School
20:25 The Benefits and Challenges of a Small School
26:16 Memorable Moments at Sunol Glen
30:41 Heartfelt Reflections
32:05 The Changing Landscape of Education
35:36 Supporting Teachers and Administrators
36:50 Challenges in the Teaching Profession
42:27 Memorable Teachers and Experiences
45:22 Award Recognition and Community Support
47:22 Retirement Plans and Future Aspirations
51:02 Spreading Joy and Final Thoughts
52:56 Closing Remarks and Reflections
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Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/activism-and-resilience-with-christy-tending-writing-through-grief-and-joy/
I'm welcoming back my friend and author Christy Tending. Christy is joining me to discuss her new book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," which is a lyrical exploration of disobedience, grief, healing, and climate activism. Packed with heartfelt reflections and practical advice for activists, Christy's book offers a unique blend of memoir and guide.
We also dive into a thoughtful conversation about the personal and societal challenges we've faced over the last few years, highlighting the importance of community, preparedness, and personal resilience. We discuss the practical aspects of activism, the emotional toll of recent global events, and how Christy's writing has navigated these complex landscapes.
Key Highlights:
Christy talks about the inspiration and process behind writing "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," including the challenges of writing about deeply personal and societal issues. The importance of community and collective efforts in activism and beyond. Practical tips for personal and activist preparedness, including a PSA about phone security. The process of submitting work to literary magazines and dealing with rejection as a writer. Encouragement for creators to pursue their projects without waiting for external validation or permission.Resources:
Find Christy's book: ChristyTending.com/books Follow Christy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christytending Buy Christy's book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3W71dc4 Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a CoffeeTimestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
00:20 Introducing Christy and Her New Book
00:33 Exploring the Themes of the Book
01:04 Community and Resources for Listeners
02:08 Christy's Journey and Writing Process
03:37 Navigating Modern Challenges
10:47 Practical Tips for Activists
15:13 Emergency Preparedness and Community Support
21:39 The Power of Community in Publishing
26:56 The Weird Book Thing
27:05 Self-Publishing Journey
27:48 Making Cool Stuff Without Permission
29:04 The Challenges of Writing a Book
30:18 Processing Isolation and Loss
39:37 The Role of an Editor
41:16 The Importance of Specificity in Writing
48:58 Finding Joy in the Little Things
50:59 Final Thoughts and Inspiration
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Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/finding-joy-through-structure-and-elegance-with-jennifer-l-scott/
In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, Paula interviews Jennifer L. Scott, the New York Times bestselling author of the Madame Chic Series and content creator behind The Daily Connoisseur, who shares how adding structure and more formality to life can bring intentional joy.
Jennifer highlights her experiences living with a traditional family in Paris, her journey as a YouTuber through the Daily Connoisseur, and how she navigates homeschooling while balancing her professional life.
The conversation dives into how self-discipline and mindful living can transform daily routines, and Jennifer offers tips on being present, observing nature, and incorporating lifelong learning into one's lifestyle. Paula also introduces a new segment on inspiration, intention, or action, encouraging listeners to continually seek personal growth.
Resources:
Buy Jennifer's Book, Lessons From Madame Chic: https://amzn.to/3KYSCln
The Daily Connoisseur on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEnEnLT5wBVnK56QFRg_Iwg
Jennifer L. Scott's website: https://jenniferlscott.com/
Jump Start Your Joy's website: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/
Labyrinth Walk information: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:42 Jennifer L. Scott's Background and YouTube Channel
03:34 The Joys of Childhood and Early Inspirations
05:40 Writing the Madame Chic Series
08:08 Living a Formal Life: Lessons from Paris
10:43 Pandemic Reflections and Seeking Structure
16:23 Community Feedback and Personal Transformations
22:28 The Struggles of YouTube Content Creation
22:58 Taking YouTube Seriously
24:25 Balancing YouTube and Personal Life
26:36 The Chic Assignments
29:54 Homeschooling and Delegation
31:17 The Reality Behind YouTube Success
34:21 Future Plans and Community Building
37:37 Final Thoughts and Inspirations -
Get the full show notes: Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy Alison Arngrim, the actress best known for her role as Nellie Oleson on 'Little House on the Prairie' joins Paula in this look back episode. This episode, originally recorded a few years ago, is revisited as Paula and her son prepare to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead and on the 50th anniversary of the TV show. Alison shares her journey from suffering abuse as a child to finding empowerment through acting. She discusses her audition for Nellie Oleson, her experiences working with Michael Landon, and her transformation into an AIDS activist after her co-star Steve Tracy's death. Alison also touches on the dynamics with her castmates, the impact of the show globally, and her post-'Little House' work, including her standup comedy and public speaking on surviving abuse. The episode emphasizes Alison's decision to turn her situation into a source of joy and advocacy. Listeners are also guided to check out the show notes and follow Paula's adventures in Kansas on Instagram. Resources
Alison Arngrim's Bonnetheads.com website (sign up for the Nellie Newsletter here)
Alison Arngrim's Book, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch on AmazonLove the show, and want to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:31 Revisiting a Classic Episode 01:04 Welcome New Listeners 01:48 Introducing Alison Arngrim 03:04 Alison's Early Career and Little House on the Prairie 05:13 The Audition for Nelly Olson 11:42 The Global Impact of Little House on the Prairie 14:42 Behind the Scenes with Michael Landon 19:25 The Friendship with Melissa Gilbert 21:58 Public Reactions and Personal Reflections 31:29 Navigating Early Uncertainty 32:02 Building a Support System 32:54 A Love Story Blossoms 33:26 Shared Values and Compatibility 35:44 Embracing Public Recognition 39:31 Turning Fame into a Force for Good 43:05 Confessions of a Prairie Bitch 45:21 Empowering Women Through Lectures 51:03 Practical Advice for Aspiring Changemakers 56:03 Finding Joy in Everyday Life -
Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/exploring-trauma-and-joy-with-author-jen-soriano
Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy
In this episode of Jumpstart Your Joy, Paula interviews Jen Soriano, a Filipinx writer and movement builder, about her experiences with trauma and healing. They discuss Jen's book 'Nervous Essays on Heritage and Healing,' the effects of trauma, and the importance of addressing collective pain. The conversation delves into the difference between trauma-informed and trauma-wise approaches, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the pressing issues within local communities, such as the banning of pride flags in schools.
Jen also shares her personal journey through grief and chronic pain and offers practical advice and insights into the fundamentals of healing and finding joy.
Find Jen Soriano's website: https://www.jensoriano.net/
Jen Soriano on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensorianowrites
Buy the book: https://amzn.to/4cfAkrw
Love the show, and want to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel
00:00 Welcome to Season Eight!
01:03 Introducing Jen Soriano
01:38 Diving into Trauma and Healing
04:16 Jen's Childhood Joys
06:21 The Birth of a Book
10:17 Understanding Trauma
15:23 Chronic Pain and Trauma
22:54 The Fluidity of Our Nervous Systems
25:09 Rewiring Neural Circuits for Joy
27:25 The Pandemic's Collective Trauma
29:44 Addressing Global and Local Issues
32:28 School Board Controversies and Trauma
42:15 Healing Trauma and Finding Joy
46:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/what-do-you-stand-for/ In the first episode of Season 8 of 'Jumpstart Your Joy,' I'm returning after an 18-month break to discuss the profound changes and reflections experienced during the hiatus. The episode dives into themes of intentional living, navigating grief, the importance of setting boundaries, challenging hustle culture, and the reverberating impact of focusing on internal growth over external validation. Emphasizing the significance of finding joy even amidst hard times, the host also introduces upcoming topics and invites listeners to join a vibrant community centered around positivity and personal growth. Want to Learn More About Labyrinths and get a Labyrinth Walking guide? Sign up on my website. https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/
Resources:
Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan: Discover the Joy of Spending Less, Sharing More, and Living Generously by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller
Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie
High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out by Amanda Ripley
Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate)
Love the show, and want to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel
00:00 Welcome Back to Jumpstart Your Joy 01:00 Reflecting on a Long Break 01:28 Intentional Living and Time Management 01:59 Navigating Grief and Personal Loss 03:20 Understanding Growth Beyond Hustle Culture 09:07 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 14:05 Finding Joy Amidst Societal Challenges 24:29 The Power of Intentionality and Reflection 25:11 Embracing Labyrinth Work 29:48 Looking Forward: Season Eight Plans -
This week's episode is the finale of season seven where I've been talking all about intentional comfort and how to bring more comfort and ease into your everyday life.
If you have not yet listened to the episode where I did the countdown of the top 10 most downloaded episodes, you can tune in here.
1. Choose comfort, and build it into our lives. I think we are looking for a way to wind down and a way to hold space for the things that we've done and to take a breather. It may be that the world feels heavy, and that you need a break. Mirror what you choose to do with what the seasons do. Winter is a time of darkness and quiet and solitude. And so I think comfort and joy are bookends for each other, but I think they also go hand in hand.
2. See it as riding the wave. If youcan ride the wave of whateverdifficult thing you're facing, and intentionally schedule in comfort, you will be in a better place. It can be helpful to know that this current situation is temporary, and ride it out. And, you can get through it by clinging to that intentional comfort that we are setting up for yourself.
3. Everything is cyclical. Hard times, good times. Comforting times, overwhelming times. It's all cyclical. Knowing that there is a season for each thing that sometimes will be easier. Sometimes it'll be harder. And knowing this can maybe help you find comfort in one that the season will change just like if you ride out the wave. But in two, that, that this is part of the bigger plan and pattern.
4. Learn to live an "Untethered Life," as inspired by the book by Michael A Singer. The really big takeaway for me with that book is that you can start to question some of the patterns and habits that you recognize that you have after you spent some time looking at them. Because comfort can come from getting to know yourself instead of fighting whatever comes up and ruminating on whatever comes up.
5. Joy and happiness is comforting. Make time for whatever it is that makes you happy. Let go of the expectations and the pressure of day-to-day life that's telling us what we "should" do or want. Learning to let yourself be in the present moment, without feeling the need to document for social media or feel the pressure to share every detail with anyone else.
Resources:
Season 7 Countdown (finale pt 1)
Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate)
Join me for a Virtual Labyrinth walk (free) on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 1pm PST | 4pm EST
Love the show, and want to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel
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Andrea Scher has thrilled and inspired others for nearly twenty years through her award-winning blog Superhero Journal, her international workshops, her Creative Superheroes podcast, and her joyful e-courses. In this episode, we discuss Andreaâs new book, Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today, and how and she describes why this is the perfect time to tune into the small things that bring you joy.
Read the full show notes on my website. Click here.
In this episode, Andrea and I talk about:
Why Andrea was inspired to write her book to inspire others to add more wonder and magic to their lives What a Wonder Seeker actually is and how wonder relates to joy Becoming braver and more resilient as you pivot your attention towards wonder and joy How Wonder Seekers create comfort by being open-hearted and cultivating a spirit of kindness and love Some of the exercises in Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy Today and why 144 is her personal favorite How Andrea sets intentions and the magic the practice can bring How to move past the rigid routines of the last 18 months and embrace the magic and wonder your world has to offer Andreaâs e-courses, retreats, and creative workshops, and how to find out more about her Three ways Andrea recommends to jump-start joy in your life, in the world, or other peopleâs lives?Resources
Preorder Andrea Scher's book: Wonder Seeker: 52 Ways to Wake Up Your Creativity and Find Your Joy
Get your free gift from Andrea after purchasing Wonder Seeker here
Andrea Scher's Superhero Life
Andrea Scher on Instagram
Other books and resources we mention in this episode
The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Wisdom, and Love: Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson
Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence by Rick Hanson
Camera Obscura in San Francisco
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Intentional Comfort is the theme of this season, and in this episode I'm taking inspiration from Priya Parker's Art of Gathering, and using her 3 rules of gathering to consider new ways to reconnect with what nourishes, fortifies, and supports you. While her Ted Talk is about how to interact in groups and gatherings in new ways, I find that her rules and thoughts offer insights on how to connect with yourself, and how to determine what is meaningful to you when looking for intentional comfort.
Here are the basics of what I'm covering:
Don't leave it to chance
This is the intentional part of things. If we leave the relationship and connection we have to and with ourselves to chance, it's far too easy to focus on the basics and logistics of life, and ignore time for self care. If you're longing for more time for yourself, or time to do thoughtful, comforting things, schedule that time in.
Embrace your purpose
For many of you, especially over the stretch of the pandemic, you may have developed some habits that arenât really serving you. And, while they likely did serve you for a period of time, now that weâre nearly into the third year of all of this, I think the way we look at comfort and what fortifies us has likely changed. Itâs become super apparent that this isnât about a sprint, this is about a transition. What is the purpose, or meaning, behind setting up time for intentional comfort?
How can you craft something that supports and nourishes you, as we all work through this transition together?
What is the purpose of what you want to do, in finding comfort?
What would meet your needs?
If youâre looking for an escape, what does that look like given any of your current constraints?
If youâre looking for peace and quiet, why?
And if you dig a layer deeper, is there something you feel is missing?
Cause good controversy
Priya says that âhuman connection is as threatened by unhealthy peace as it is by unhealthy conflict.â And, Iâd add that this connection is true for gatherings as it is for the connection you and I have with ourselves.
For this, Iâd ask yourself what do you need, right now? Drop any sort of âshouldsâ or polite answers. You're answering this just for yourself.
Some of these answers might be overly simple: a walk, a shower, a drink of water, a meal
Some of these answers might be more complicated and feel harder to figure out: a feeling of connectedness, quiet time when Iâm not needed by anyone else, a day to just bake cookies and connect with the holiday spirit
How can you do this? It might feel like it involves creating some good controversy, especially if it involves speaking up to divide up housework with your family, to find quiet time, to find time to pursue a hobby, or to interview for a new job. You may need help from other people to do these things. So, dive in and ask yourself what you need and then figure out what kind of help you need from other people in your family.
The other side of this good controversy could be a totally inside job. It could be that youâve been sitting with something for a long time that doesnât feel so great, and in order to find comfort and joy on the other side, you need to work through it. You may need to break through a Story - or something youâre assuming is true but isnât really true.
Use "pop up" rules
Priya suggests this for groups that gather that donât necessarily share the same background, or are part of the same generation, culture, or rules for etiquette. She says in those situations, you can set up pop up rules to encourage meaningful connection.
What if you changed your own rules for a bit? What rules could you set for yourself, just for a day or a week, to support yourself?
An example might be: set a bedtime for yourself for the next week if you are tired.
Make a rule for yourself that this week, you will slow down and have an afternoon snack and see how that feels.
Limit your interaction with people who stress you out, if possible.
Maybe if thereâs a particular person that tends to upset you but you know youâll see at a holiday event, maybe set a rule that you can leave after a certain amount of time at the event, or request that you not be seated next to them?
This might mean that youâre asking for something slightly different of yourself and other people - and that could be uncomfortable. So, let it be an experiment. Try out what something new looks like.
Wrap up
These ideas are all so applicable to how we can find intentional comfort and joy in our lives. Itâs so easy to get into habits that donât really support you, but have addressed discomfort you may have been feeling. Intentional Comfort is all adding a layer of mindfulness to what you do every day. I have been looking for ways to intentionally add nurturing and nourishing habits to my days, and find that when I make those choices, I do find more joy, too.
Resources
Priya Parker's Ted Talk
Stasia Savasuk on Jump Start Your Joy (episode 303)
The Joy Diet by Martha Beck
The Work of Byron Katie
Loving What is by Byron Katie
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Signe Myers Hovem is a spiritual counselor, an energy worker, and the author of The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide. In this interview on Jump Start Your Joy podcast, we are talking about empaths and highly sensitive people (HSPs).
If you are a highly sensitive person, or if you have a sense that you may be an empath, then I think you're going to get a lot out of this conversation (which ties so closely to this season's theme of intentional comfort on the podcast). HSPs and empaths notice the energy around people and places and things, and this can be overwhelming to them. The Empath's Field Guide, and this conversation, offers a lot of insight on how to manage your energy, hold space, and work with your gifts.
In this episode, Signe Myers Hovem talk about:
What it means to be a functional empath. The difference between empathy versus being an empath. Exploring what it means to identify as a highly sensitive person. The power of our words and what we choose to call things. Minding your energy, and holding space without having your own energy drained. How to set up strong boundaries with people, places, or things if you feel an energetic drain and decide if you want to get involved further. How do we navigate through the space of being an empath or an HSP in everyday life?Resources
Signe Myers Hovem's website
The Space in Between: An Empaths Field Guide by Signe Myers Hovem
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Season 7 was all about "Intentional Comfort." This episode shares the top ten most downloaded and beloved episodes from season 7.
They are:
10. Emma Loewe, author of Return to Nature
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
9. 5 Tips to Bring More Mindfulness to You Everyday
Listen to the episode
8. Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth on Finding a Mardi Gras State of Mind
Listen to the original episode
Buy their best of album.
7. Heather Hall, Author of Step Up and Stand Out: 20 Tips for Aspiring Introverted Leaders
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
6. Jenn Oglesbee: Intentional Comfort and Joy in the Midst of Grief
Listen to the original episode
5. Stasia Savasuk: Wearing Your Word of the Year
Listen to the original episode
4. 10 Things to Inspire More Passion and Joy in Your Life and Work
Listen to the original episode
3. Finding Your Heart's Second Home
Listen to the original episode
2. William J. Peters, Author of At Heaven's Door
Listen to the original episode
Buy the book
1. Scott Leftwich, owner of "Weiners and Losers," and 80s arcade, Airbnb and band member.
Listen to the original episode
Resources
Brene Brown's "Living Our Values" Exercise
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Are you looking for ways to define what brings you joy, and identify your passions? In this episode I'm sharing 2 exercises to help figure out what you're passionate about and 10 ways to bring more of that passion to your work and your life.
Read the full show notes on my website
Introspection - Using the tools above, or working with a coach, a mentor, or a journal can provide a lot of insight for you. It's also important that you take time to heal any sort of past trauma or issues that might be making it hard for you to define or get in touch with your passions. Just start moving and working on things. Lots of times people think that they need to have everything all figured out before they can take the first step. Instead, think of the first logical step and give it a try. Let your passion stand on it's own. If you're interested in something, give it a try. Sometimes, instead of taking a first step, you may think that you need to have a plan to monetize a hobby, or have an end goal in mind for why you'd begin working on it. Passion and creativity are often most joyful when they are done for the sake of being fun and playful. You don't need an end "result" on the horizon to begin. It's OK to make bold moves. You often learn the most when you try something that is out of your comfort zone. Many people worry that they will "fail" when they try something they haven't done before. What if you removed that idea from the equation, and decided that there was no such thing as failure when it comes to following your passion? It's OK to "go back" to something if your first try doesn't work the way you'd planned. If you are working on building a business, and it doesn't work the way you'd envisioned the first time, it's OK to go back to work that supports you and your family. There's no shame, and nothing lost in continuing your quest as a side hustle, or starting over with a new focus. Notice if you've had "enough." You might discover that something that once brought you joy no longer does. Or, you might realize that you've had enough at a job that isn't serving you, or that you're no longer interested in continuing a hobby or a business that you once enjoyed. This is natural and part of being human. Look for the pivot points. I also call this being "well planned and loosely held," but notice when you see something shifting before your eyes in your plans. Often times, as you begin to build something your focus changes. You can also shift your business or your hobby or your interests to match those changes. Follow what feels right. If you've grown tired of doing something, stop. If something else feels interesting or bring you joy, do that. Resist staying with something just because you "should." The universe will give you opportunities to show you that you can do it. As you begin to grow your hobby or your passion or business, you'll see that the universe will show you that you're very capable of doing something. Looking back, you'll be able to see that you overcame challenges to get to where you are. Stop to celebrate those wins. You grow and change as your interests do, and it's always good to notice that you did something you once thought might be impossible. You'll get more of something when you're ready. This may have to do with manifesting, or with growth. You'll see that once you've got a grasp of how to do something, you'll often be faced with opportunities that allow you to grow. Be intentional about the growth. You might find that old versions of what you thought you wanted resurface. It's OK to say no to things that don't fit you, anymoreSign up to receive the Jump Start Your Joy newsletter
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Resources
Resources
Brene Brown's "Living Our Values" Exercise
ClaimPodParity List and Website
Heather Hall, Coach for Introverts
Interview with Lauren Artress about Labyrinth
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
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I'm really excited to have author Renee Linnell back on JSYJ!. This is her second time on the podcast, and in this brand new conversation, we're talking about her book that came out on August 16, 2022, which is titled "Still on Fire: A Memoir."
Renee first came on the show when her first book, "The Burn Zone," came out. This book was was all about how she found herself in a cult several years ago. Her new book is a delightful continuation of her amazing craft of storytelling. The themes that come through in her new book are all around trusting your intuition, manifesting things in your life, and the idea that this life is a continuation of your soul's ongoing journey.
Of course, these are some of my very favorite themes and there's such joy and delight in this conversation with Renee.
Resources:
Renee Linnell's first interview on JSYJ
Renee Lineell's book: "Still on Fire: A Memoir"
Renee Linnell's book: "The Burn Zone"
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Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this monthâs theme of âfinding home,â and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.
Read the full show notes on my website.
In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:
How the idea of this book came about A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature. My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees. What a forest bath is, and how to experience one The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming wayResources
Emma Loeweâs book, âReturn to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Usâ on Bookshop.org
Emma Loeweâs website
Emma Loewe on Instagram
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Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
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Creativity and joy are closely related. If you're feeling stuck, and need some inspiration on how to tap into creativity - Marion Abrams of Grounded Content and I have 8 ideas for you to jumpstart your creativity and joy.
Here they are:
1. Just do the thing. Starting is the hardest part.
2. Double down on what you've been doing. Recommit to it.
3. Take yourself on an "artist's date. " (as inspired by Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way)
4. Revisit the source of your inspiration. What started you on your creative journey? Spend time with that, and DO some of it.
5. If you're creating something and have data that can inform you as to what has done the best (on your blog, podcast, social media), spend some time looking at what past episodes or posts have done the best. Go back and look at what some of your favorite past work has been, and take inspiration from that.
6. Take a break or a breather.
7. What has been the favorite thing you've created for your show / blog / art? What did you love about it, or love about creating it? Use your past favorite work as inspiration for what comes next.
8. Go pro, as inspired by Steven Pressfield's "War of Art." Sometimes, you are not going to love your art or the thing you create. And, that's when you need to go back to it and do the work.
Bonus: try "Morning Pages" as an exercise, (Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way)
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Resources:
Podcasting and Content Creator Insights / Our YouTube Show
Marion's site and Grounded Content
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
The Art of War by Steven Pressfield
Big Magic by Liz Gilbert
Love the show, and what to show your support?
Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.
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