I am so happy to have my friend, Peter Bedard joining me again on the Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast.   

Peter Bedard has an MA in consciousness studies and has extensive training in hypnotherapy and alternative health.  He is a celebrated author, consultant, international speaker, and healer.

After a near-death experience, Peter was faced with the greatest challenge of all.  Namley, living a life in severe physical, emotional, and spiritual pain and anxiety. The former dancer soon discovered that the anger, frustration, and anxiety that he felt, because of his injuries, were not only keeping him in pain.  Instead, they were waiting to teach him the greatest gifts of his life.

This is a amazing, proven 10-point process. Peter explains noninvasive, life-altering practices to help you permanently heal your mind, body, and spirit. His process to heal chronic pain is without prescription medicine.

Peter has also written 2 other books that he spoke about on the podcast.    Read more here.

“You can heal!  When we heal on all levels of our being, we can create a healing plan for ourselves that is doable and actionable. Every pain, whether it is physical, mental, or spiritual, must be addressed on all of those levels. A broken bone needs to be healed physically AND mentally in the mind.”

“A broken heart needs to be healed emotionally on the spirit/energetic level AND in our physical bodies. To neglect any part of the healing process is to neglect ourselves and to force the problem into other parts of our lives.”

“Someone newly sober and not drinking, must address the “emptiness” they feel physically and not fill that emptiness with cigarettes or sugar. They must give their body a new way to process the pain that the addiction was hiding and they must address the wound in their heart that was caused by the drinking…not to forget the wound that potentially prompted the drinking.”

Above all, Peter has helped thousands of people overcome pain and the fearful shadow it has cast over their lives. As a result, he helps his clients to live a life to their full potential.  While at the same time, by integrating the lessons of pain, including  physical, mental, and spiritual lessons into balanced living. Lastly, Peter will share his process of doing so. This includes his process for “Steps for Creating the Life You Want.”

Thank you Peter for sharing your story with us.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

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Joining me on the Born To Talk Radio Show podcast is Debra Eckerling.

Debra Eckerling is the book proposal expert and strategist, as well as an author, and podcaster. She helps thought leaders clarify their message. While at the same time she helps them elevate their platforms, and craft winning nonfiction book proposals. Thus getting the attention of agents and publishers.

Debra Eckerling is also the creator of The DEB Method for goal-setting simplified.  She is author of Your Goal Guide (IPPY Silver Medal, Self-Help) and 52 Secrets for Goal-Setting and Goal-Getting; and host of GoalChat, Taste Buds with Deb (LA Press Club SoCal Journalism Awards, 1st Place), and the Book Proposal Podcast. Debra has spoken for TEDx, Innovation Women, Wellcoaches, Writer’s Digest, the LA County Bar Association Lawyer Well-Being Project, and more.

“My goal for this conversation is for listeners to walk away feeling clear, confident, and empowered. Whether they’re thinking about writing a book or tackling any big goal. All they need is to take a “hop” of faith  It doesn’t even have to be a leap. Goals do not have to be complicated or overwhelming. With the right structure, realistic goals, and a step-by-step approach, progress becomes probable. Clarity and intention can turn ideas into action.”  

You will learn about ways to help you reach your goals and not lose momentum in the process.  The Deb Method is Goal Setting Simplified. You will hear about small steps you can take this week if you want to move closer to publishing a book. Get ready!

Thank you Deb for sharing your story with us.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

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Joining me on the Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast is Dr. Allen Saxon.

Since retiring as a general surgeon, Dr. Allen Saxon has had time to pursue two of his passions—creative writing and medical education. A graduate of Tulane Medical School, he has experienced the value of safety net hospitals to society first-hand.  This includes both indigent populations and to those learning the art of medicine.

Allen currently teaches at two medical schools: Northwestern University and Rosalind Franklin University. He lives in the Chicago area. His novella, The Climber of Pointe du Hoc, was published in 2024. A captivating story of love and heroism set against the Allied invasion of Europe. Based on historical research and intended to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

His new book is a novel called Training in Charity.

The setting of his novel, Charity Hospital in New Orleans, opened shortly after the establishment of New York City’s Bellevue in 1736.  It is the second oldest public hospital in the country.  Told with humor and empathy, Training in Charity captures what it meant to begin a life in medicine before computers and technology softened the edges.  This was a time when skill was learned by doing.  Compassion was earned at the bedside.  The making of a doctor was as raw and real as the city that held him

Allen trained at Charity in real life. The education he received there gave him a chance to learn and perform procedures in a way students cannot today. The art of taking histories and performing physical exams was learned on actual patients.  As opposed to actors hired as simulated patients or mannequins. Patient encounters were not scripted as they often are today.  Examinations revealed pathologic physical findings which are mostly absent in staged encounters.

But more importantly it provided opportunities to understand patients’ socioeconomic backgrounds that were very different from their own and to develop human connections with the wide variety of people represented by the patient population and hospital staff.

“The education for medical students has changed over the years but at its core it remains an endeavor centered on the care of the patient.  Becoming a doctor involves a transformative path in which students become healers by focusing on their patients’ needs as they apply the skills of medical science.”

It is clear that Allen has a passion for medicine and also making the difference in the lives of the patients he cares for and the students that learn from all of his experiences.

Thank you Allen for sharing your story with us.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

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Joining me on the Born To Talk Radio Show podcast is Dr. Wojciech Kocyan. He is Pianist, Clinical Professor in the Music Department at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, President of the Paderewski Music Society in Los Angeles and Artistic Director of the American International Paderewski Piano Competition in Los Angeles.

Dr. Wojeich Kocyan was born in Poland.  He studied with two of the world’s most esteemed piano pedagogues:  Andrzej Jasinski in Poland, where he received his Masters Degree.  And also with John Perry at the University of Southern California, where he received a Doctor of Musical Arts Degree.

He is a laureate of several international piano competitions, including F.Busoni and Viotti, as well as a special prizes winner of the XI International Chopin Competition and the First Prize winner of the Paderewski Piano Competition.

The Paderewski Music Society in Los Angeles, is a Section 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. It was established in 2008 by a group of prominent musicians and music lovers alike to uphold the legacy of the great Polish pianist, statesman and philanthropist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski.  Throughout his life he was deeply engaged in the promotion of music and culture and its all-important place in society.  Most recently, the Society established a scholarship fund to aid in the education of most deserving young pianists.

“We want to make the audience aware that there is an international piano competition of the highest order happening right here in Los Angeles. This is an opportunity to hear a lot of wonderful live performances, in a great intimate concert hall. It is an opportunity to meet the best young pianists from around the world, on the cusp of their professional careers. And at the same time to meet other piano afficionados. They discuss the performances in real time with real people, to passionately argue about them, to have your favorites and generally to have a lot of fun – all while supporting high culture and art in our city.”

There will be a competition at LMU for those of you that can attend from February 8-14th. You will hear 25 of the best young pianists in the world, ages 16-31.

Thank you Wojciech for sharing your story with us.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

[email protected]

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Welcome to the first Monday in January of 2026.  Happy New Year!  I can’t think of a better way to start the year than with my guest Celeste Barbier.

Celeste Barbier is a Professional Vocalist, Ordained Minister, and Certified Expert Sound Healer. She is also a women’s group travel curator & leader, and public speaker.  And,  hopefully future published author based in Oceanside, California. Known for a versatile repertoire spanning more than a century of music, Celeste brings warmth, precision, and emotional resonance to corporate events, private celebrations, weddings, and memorials. In doing so she creates experiences that feels both elevated and deeply personal.

In 2019 and 2020, Celeste released two professional albums, with one original song gaining strong traction leading into 2020. During the COVID era, she became a daily content creator, beginning with “Quaranteatime,” a series of brief uplifting segments, and expanding into her one-hour show “Celeste’s Quest For Her Best Life,” streamed through outlets including The Quarantine Network (TQN) and Palapa TV.

In 2022, a profound personal healing experience catalyzed her expanded path in sound healing. She became a Certified Expert Sound Healer and hosted her first sound bath on 11/22/22.

Today, she and her wife René Cosby (Reiki Master) offer Resté Sound Healing experiences and curate Resté Getaway For Women.  This is a transformational group travel rooted in relaxation, exploration, culture, and connection.

Resté Getaway for Women offers curated, luxury, all-inclusive women-only vacations to unique, once-in-a-lifetime destinatins. Coming in March will be a trip to Thailand.  They focuse on exclusive experiences designed for women by women, rather than being a typical travel agency. They create boutique travel events emphasizing discovery and connection, distinct from general women’s retreats or destination ideas. 

In January 2026, Celeste begins her role as Director of Meditation & Music at Seaside Center for Spiritual Living in Encinitas.

“My ‘why’ is to create spaces where people feel safe to soften, reconnect, and remember what matters — through voice, sound, and presence. In an era where the country feels more divided than ever, I’m devoted to the common denominator: music and healing that reunites people across all backgrounds. Healing in the form of connection, peace, nervous system regulation, nostalgia, and remembrance of who we are and why we are here: to love one another.”

Celeste joined me when I was in the LA Talk Live Studio in 2016.  In fact, here is a link from our show:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKChhMnT8A8.

Thank you Celeste for sharing your story with us.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

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My guest today on The Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast is Evan Hart.  Evan is a music teacher and Handbell Choir director at Highland Hall Waldorf School in Northridge, CA. He is a composer, also a founding member of an Alternative LA Rock Band, Stage 11.

Born into a musical family, Evan began playing drums at age five and was soon gigging with his father in the Santa Barbara area. As a teenager, he formed a rock band with friends and performed original music at venues across California’s Central Coast. Evan is a founding member of the alt-rock band STAGE 11 and currently performs in three additional bands. He has also played in the pit for numerous musicals and contributed his skills as a session drummer, film composer, and audio engineer.  Evan brings over 30 years of experience in music, drumming, and percussion to his teaching. In doing so, he helps students discover how fun and expressive playing music can be. His students learn the basics of Western music theory while also developing active listening and collaboration skills.

In Evan’s middle school and high school classes, students who often have no experience playing music learn the fundamentals; melody, harmony, rhythm, and especially teamwork. He brings over 30 years of experience in music, drumming, and percussion to his teaching, helping students discover how fun and expressive playing music can be. His students learn the basics of Western music theory while also developing active listening and collaboration skills.

“Music and sound designs are forms of storytelling. As a composer, I don’t have to be a wordsmith to contribute meaningfully to a story. And if a composer or sound designer has done their job well, most people won’t necessarily notice because they will be so enveloped by the story. I encourage people every once in a while to mindfully notice the music in movies, TV shows, and video games. Listen to how it builds tension, punctuates the moment, and brings the story to life. As a teacher, I encourage people who have trouble expressing themselves in words to try music. You don’t need to start with an expensive instrument or formal lessons, although that can help later on. Play around with any instrument you can get your hands on, stay curious and explore. You might surprise yourself.”

Evan’s inspiration comes from a lifetime surrounded by music—classic rock, Motown, funk, R&B, jazz, breakbeats, and classical—often making music alongside his father. From an early age, music was an essential language for expression. Today, he thrives in exploring deep grooves and experimental sounds, always seeking new ways to tell stories through music.

Thank you Evan!

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

[email protected]

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Joining me on the Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast from across the pond in Preston, England is Debra Blackman. This is the first time I have had a guest from the United Kingdom.

Debra Blackman is an entrepreneur, international multimedia speaker, and the visionary CEO of Viessentially Ltd. She is also the host of the acclaimed podcast Sphere of Success that can be seen on Youtube. Debra empowers purpose-driven individuals to find their voice and amplify their impact through her signature podcast training programs.

She helps entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and business owners get seen, heard, and recognized.   Whether it’s through powerful podcasts, media appearances, live events, or streamlined business support that frees up their time for what truly matters, Debra is there to guide her clients along the way.

Founded in 2016, Viessentially has a highly commercial mindset collaborated to spot business opportunities, be it an ambassador for your brand, become the eyes and ears of your office, make sure your customer touchpoints are seamless, increase profitability, and more.

Here are some of the questions I will be asking Debra about her experience as a podcaster.  What’s one common mistake people make when preparing for a podcast guest spot. How do you fix it?  Why do you believe podcasting is one of the most powerful visibility tools for purpose-driven entrepreneurs?  How do you help clients turn one podcast appearance into long-term visibility and credibility?  What’s your advice for someone who wants to be a guest on podcasts but doesn’t know where to start?

In this powerful episode, listeners will discover how podcasting became a transformational tool for one introverted entrepreneur, turning quiet confidence into captivating presence. Debra shares how stepping behind the mic not only amplified her voice but also unlocked new business opportunities, authentic visibility, and meaningful connections. Through real stories, practical strategies, and mindset shifts. Debra reveals how podcasting and guest appearances can help purpose-driven professionals grow their influence without compromising who they are. Whether you’re introverted, unsure where to start, or simply curious about the power of podcasting, this conversation will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to take the next step toward being heard.

 Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!    

[email protected]

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Today’s guest is Erin Thompson.  Erin is the Chief Operating Officer at the Polk Institute Foundation.

Erin earned a Jurist Doctorate from The John Marshall Law School where she graduated as a member of Phi Delta Honors Society. She was President of the Entertainment Law Society and Treasurer of the Mediation and Arbitration Society. Erin also studied abroad with the South Western Law School in London. She has a Bachelors Degree in Business Management from Columbia College. She also spent time studying at Augustana College and American University. Erin was an adjunct professor in Loyola Marymount University’s MBA program in Playa Vista, CA where she taught Social Entrepreneurship.

The Polk Institute Foundation is a 501(C)(3). It is an innovation driven enterprise offering a tuition-free Master Practitioner, Training and Incubator and Accelerator programs. There is an 11-month Incubator Program for startups and pre-revenue companies and an 11-month Accelerator Program for existing businesses. Their focus is on graduating fundable CEOs. At the Polk Institute Foundation, social entrepreneurship companies are endeavors that are purpose-driven. They represent the passion of the founder, Gary Polk.  These endeavors focus on People, Planet and Profit (Triple Bottom Line) and the belief that behaving ethically and generating profits are not conflicting concepts.

This is a virtual training program with the focus of graduating ethical and fundable CEOs.  Applications are being accepted for the 2026 Cohort through November 23.

“When you meet someone who mentions that they want to start, scale, or transform their business, we want the Polk Institute Foundation to be at the top of your mind.   The membership program is for mature and legacy owned businesses to find community and explore exit, merger and acquisition strategies and can be joined at any time of the year. We are here to help.”

The Polk Institute Foundation believes in the power of business to bring about positive change in the world.  Their mission is to serve social entrepreneurs to help make the world a better place.  There are numerous ways to get involved.  You can donate, volunteer, or become a mentor. Check out their website to learn more.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Erin!!!   

Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!

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My guest today is Karin Wallerstein. She is the CEO of the Venice Chamber of Commerce, located in Venice, California.

Karin Wallerstein was born in New Jersey and has been a Venice resident for over 14 years.   Karin brings drive, energy and love for the Venice Community into her role as Chief Executive Officer. She earned her Masters Degree in Criminal Justice and Research from John Jay College in NYC and has given her time to the Venice Chamber of Commerce and Santa Monica Rotary Club for five years.  In doing so, she leads volunteers in their philanthropic efforts and giving her time to community and volunteer efforts.  Karin is a believer of teamwork and collaboration and  to foresee great things ahead for Venice.  Karin also currently serves on the Board of the Santa Monica Rotary Club.

Venice is one of LA’s most creative spots to work, play and visit! By joining the Venice Chamber, members become part of a network of local leaders serving to promote and support businesses within the community.  And at the same time, working to enhance the image of Venice. Being involved with Chamber activities is a great way to give back.   Therefore, it allows members to do their part to help keep the community a thriving place to work and live. Chamber involvement is the cornerstone to building a solid foundation for pursuing  professional goals.

Chambers of commerce provide access to valuable resources, discounts, and relationships that help businesses save money and market their products. Joining a chamber of commerce can boost sales and significantly improve a local business

Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self”, embodies the humanitarian spirit of more than 1.2 million members worldwide.

Chartered in 1922, the Rotary Club of Santa Monica is one of the largest and most active clubs in the Greater Los Angeles area. With over 120 business and professional leaders who live or work in the community, the club has earned a reputation as a hub for Westside professionals committed to improving both local and global communities.

Their weekly meetings offer the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and build strong networks. Through hands-on service projects, members engage in meaningful philanthropy, learning, leading, and making a lasting impact together

“I am honored and excited to the lead the Venice Chamber of Commerce into its next chapter. With the blend of the unique Venice character and the Chamber a catalyst for economic growth, we can see a thriving Venice for all to enjoy! I believe in being a “communitarian” giving back to people in my community and around the world. And, I believe that together we can make the impossible happen. I am a lover of life and laughter, and always say,  keep on rocking and rolling, because you never know when the music ends!”

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Karin!!!   

Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!

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I’m happy to say that Wendy Smith is joining me again on my Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast!

Wendy Smith, Ph.D., LCSW, is a retired clinical professor of social work and associate dean of curriculum development and assessment at USC, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. She taught courses on child and adolescent development and social work practice with children, families, and transition age youth.  Wendy is a licensed clinical social worker who maintained a private practice in psychotherapy in Los Angeles for thirty-five years. She specialized in the treatment of individuals, couples, and survivors of childhood maltreatment.  Wendy is a recognized expert in child abuse and child development.

Wendy has a long history of community volunteer work related to children and families, including 8 years on the Los Angeles County Commission for Children and Families.  She chairs the board of directors of the National Foster Youth Institute, and is a member of the Foundation Board of the Venice Family Clinic.  Wendy is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Children’s Rights Division of Human Rights Watch.   She is an advocate for individuals incarcerated for crimes committed as juveniles. Wendy has previously served on the boards of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition and United Friends of the Children.

Wendy is the author of Youth Leaving Foster Care: A Developmental, Relationship-Based Approach to Practice 2011.

Her latest book is Before Their Crimes

Before Their Crimes: What We’re Misunderstanding about Childhood Trauma, Youth Crime, and the Path to Healing.  In this  ground-breaking book, Wendy sheds new light on the relationship of childhood trauma and juvenile crime. She uses the framework of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) to explain how the toxic stress of early childhood trauma can make children vulnerable to committing criminal acts. Wendy draws from interviews with twenty men and women from across the racial and social divide who spent years in prison after committing serious crimes as children. Not only does she reveal the pernicious mechanisms that link early trauma to later crime, but also illuminates the potential for healing among even the most egregious offenders.

“We forget how intense childhood is, and how everything that happens—the good and the bad—affects children deeply.  Traumatic experience can be completely derailing for kids who are alone with trying to understand or recover from it.  But if there is a trusted adult to process even the most distressing events with, children are able to heal and move forward in their lives.”

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Wendy!!!   

Conversations + Connections = Community

Making the world a better place.  One Story at a time.

 What’s Your Story? I want to share it!

[email protected]

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