Have you ever wondered why the richest countries on Earth consistently rank so high in anxiety and depression? 

Research says this is because we’re so overstimulated by instant gratification that our brains never feel satisfied and become increasingly unhappy in the quest for more. We’re literally addicted to pursuing pleasures that will never satisfy us.

The cure to this man-made misery? Self-control. 

I know, I know. Your body might be rejecting this idea as too boring or hard. But stay with me. 

In this episode, you’ll learn how hyper-access to indulgence is physiologically changing your brain, and I’ll coach you on what to do so you can calm your mind and start experiencing more vitality and true joy on a permanent basis. 

Ever been cut off mid-sentence and feel a whirlwind of emotions – frustration, anger,  embarrassment? Why do we take interruptions so personally, and how can we handle them with grace?

I'm your host, Sarah Mikutel, and in this episode, I dive into effective communication and mindset strategies that will help you be seen and heard. By the end, you'll be equipped to handle interruptions confidently, communicate effectively, and enjoy life with less anxiety.

https://sarahmikutel.com/

What do courage and resilience truly mean?

As the anniversary of D-Day approaches, I reflect on the incredible bravery of the 'Greatest Generation' during World War II, drawing inspiration from my visits to historic locations such as Auschwitz and Churchill's War Rooms in London.

From blackouts to rationing, the everyday experiences of European civilians during WWII serve as a testament to human resilience.

In the film Saving Private Ryan, a dying Captain Miller says to Matt Damon's character: "Earn this." He was also speaking to us.

We have a responsibility to earn the lives that other people died for. In this episode, I talk about how we can do this by showing up as Stoic leaders and embodying courage, wisdom, moderation, and justice in our own lives.

By giving ourselves space to think and show up as our best selves, we can strive to live a life of meaning that honors the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation.

https://sarahmikutel.com/

In a few days I’m headed to Salzburg, Austria for my friend’s birthday (We need more of these kind of trips! Destination parties should go beyond weddings. Do you agree?)

And that’s why today I’m speaking with Vivien Conacher, a trained opera singer from Sydney who now lives in Salzburg.

From Mozart's birthplace and Sound of Music locations to the historic fortress and breweries, discover the magic of Salzburg and its hidden gems. Perfect for a solo or group trip or an adventure with your dog (this is a very animal-friendly place).

Before moving to Austria, Vivien  founded Songhaven, a not-for-profit that organizes free concerts by top classically-trained artists for people with dementia. How wonderful is that? 

Clearly, Vivien has a passion for helping people and the performing arts. 

And today she’s helping us by sharing her favorite must-have experiences in Salzburg, Austria. Enjoy!

If you have a dream like moving abroad but you’re feeling stuck, let’s chat. 

Book a consult with me — https://sarahmikutel.com/chat — and let’s talk about what we can do together to move you forward. Perhaps literally!

How long will you wait before you start demanding the best for yourself? 

Have you ever noticed how our thoughts and reactions can create unnecessary stress, or cultivate empathy and understanding for others?

On a recent flight to Florida, I was reminded of the power of perception and emotional resiliency.

I share the story of passengers clapping after a smooth landing, the reactions of those around me as a father rushed to exit the plane, and how the simple words of a child turned turbulence into an exciting adventure.

Inspired by the wisdom of Epictetus, we'll discuss how to be more emotionally resilient by challenging our first impressions and choosing more rational thoughts.

sarahmikutel.com

Do you have a philosophy that you live your life by?

My guest today thinks you should — and so do all the Stoics who came before her.

I’m speaking with Brittany Polat, author of Tranquility Parenting: A Guide to Staying Calm, Mindful, and Engaged and  Journal Like a Stoic: A 90-Day Stoicism Program to Live with Greater Acceptance, Less Judgment, and Deeper Intentionality. She’s also a steering committee member of Modern Stoicism, and co-founder, along with Eve Riches, of the nonprofit Stoicare, which “aims to share Stoicism with everyone who cares about people and the planet.”

We discuss the importance of having a life philosophy for yourself before you can hope to influence other people — especially kids. We also talk about how to cultivate more positive emotions in your life; how to be more mindful; how to fit reflection into your day, and more. 

As you’re listening to this conversation, think of one thing you want to start implementing to live a more harmonious life.

https://sarahmikutel.com/

Today, we’re exploring the picturesque city of Cambridge, England, home — or at least temporary home — of some of the world’s greatest minds across the centuries. Cambridge is known for its prestigious university, beautiful architecture, and punting — and if you’re not sure what that is, you’ll know by the end of this episode. 

I’m back with tour guide Sib Jackson, who’s here to share insider tips on the must-sees and hidden gems of this historic city with cobbled streets and breathtaking spires of the colleges. 

Sit back, relax, and soak in some travel inspiration for this charming city.

Are you living the life you want to live, or are you ready for something braver and bolder? 👉 https://sarahmikutel.com/

What happens when life upends you? Things seem to be running smoothly, then all of a sudden you lose your job, someone walks out on you, you graduate, you retire. Some big shift happens — now what?

Do you ruminate about the past, or do you honor it and reflect on how to move forward?

My guest today chose the latter. Sib Jackson is a German living in England as a Cambridge tour guide, amongst other fun things. But she didn’t start out that way. 

In this episode, we talk about how Sib’s story unfolded like a literary novel. Seriously, I think her life is a beautiful time capsule of our age. You’ll see what I mean on this episode. 

In the next episode, Sib and I will talk about all the experiences you should have in Cambridge.

Today is more about rolling with life and being present with it. Enjoy. 

***
I’m passionate about helping as many people as possible avoid the Top Five Regrets of the Dying, a list put together by palliative carer Bronnie Ware:

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

2. I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

5. I wish I had let myself be happier.

Every day could be our last, no matter what we have planned. 

Someday is today. Take action on the dreams that scare you. Today. Give voice to what you believe in. Today. Bring joy to someone. Today and every day.

Want to talk through what a braver life could look like for you? I’m here for you. 

Get ready to be transported to the sun-soaked beaches, charming coastal villages, and rolling hillsides of Sicily, Sardinia, and beyond. 

Katie Parla is back and just published her third book: Food of the Italian Islands. 

Katie’s an American who has been living in Rome for about 20 years as a food and beverage writer, culinary guide, and cookbook author.

We will be diving deep into the cultural and historical significance of the island’s regional cuisine, and tell you where to find Katie’s favorite food. 

Get ready to be inspired and hungry!


Katie's other cookbooks:
Tasting Rome: Fresh Flavors and Forgotten Recipes from an Ancient City: A Cookbook

Food of the Italian South: Recipes for Classic, Disappearing, and Lost Dishes: A Cookbook

sarahmikutel.com

What would life be like if we felt more happy connections with people on a regular basis? How can we embrace the wider world and bring people closer to us, even if for a few moments at the seaside? 

Oikeiosis

Stoics believe we are all citizens of the world, part of one global community. This is Stoic cosmopolitanism. 

The Stoic philosopher Seneca said: 

“Our relations with one another are like a stone arch, which would collapse if the stones did not mutually support each other, and which is upheld in this very way.” Seneca, Letter 95, Tao of Seneca

Just like each stone in an arch depends on the strength of the others to maintain its stability, we human beings are part of a harmonious system meant to support one another.

Stoics believe meaningful connection is important to our wellbeing, and for society as a whole. 

We’re here on this Earth to take care of one another, and this starts with taking care of ourselves. I’ve talked previously about the Stoic concept of the circles of concern, which describes our relationships to everyone, including ourselves.

https://sarahmikutel.com/