Conversations With Kate

In this deeply personal episode of Conversations with Kate, I open up about a season that forever changed my life—losing eight people in a matter of months, including my mother and brother. Rather than focusing solely on the pain, this conversation centers on what grief unexpectedly taught me grace: grace for myself, grace for others, and grace in the moments where life is imperfect.

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This episode is a celebration of the voices that inspire us. I’m talking about people and moments that inspired us. Honoring the conversations and people that made me think, laugh, and grow. It’s a gratitude-packed episode you won’t want to miss.

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Who says magic only happens in fairy tales or big moments? In this episode, I am exploring how the smallest details—a warm mug between your hands, the first snowflake on your nose, a kind word from a stranger—can turn an ordinary day extraordinary. Tune in to rediscover wonder hiding in plain sight.

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Life can get messy—deadlines, distractions, and that never-ending to-do list—but that doesn’t mean joy has to disappear. In this episode, I am talking about how to protect your peace and keep your inner sparkle shining even when things feel overwhelming. From simple mindset shifts to little rituals that make a big difference, this episode is about trading pressure for presence and stress for sparkle.

Mentioned This Episode:

Finding Your Sparkle Worksheet

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Pop the confetti, cue the countdown, and grab your sparkly hat—it’s time to look back at 2025 and celebrate everything this wild, wonderful year brought us. In this episode, I am reflecting on the highs, the lessons, and the surprises that shaped the past twelve months, and looking ahead to what we’re ready to call in for the fresh new year. Whether you’re a resolutions person, a vision board enthusiast, or just here for the midnight champagne toast, join me as I wrap up the year with gratitude, laughter, and a little sparkle for the road into 2026. 🥂✨

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Cotton-headed ninny muggins, it’s time to get festive! 🎄 In this episode, I am talking about what it means to show up to the holidays with full-on Buddy the Elf energy—sparkles, syrup, snow angels, and all. From turning ordinary days into magical moments to spreading cheer louder than a caroler on a sugar high, I’ll explore how to sprinkle extra joy into every corner of the season. Warning: side effects may include uncontrollable smiling, spontaneous hot cocoa breaks, and an urge to hug random Santas.

For All To Hear:

Elf: The Musical EXCERPT

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In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Gewirtz, Professor and Music Department Faculty Lead at Lansing Community College, to explore the evolving landscape of music education, creativity in the classroom, and the power of interdisciplinary learning. With a career spanning performance, composition, and academic leadership, Jonathan shares his insights into nurturing the next generation of musicians and how community colleges can play a pivotal role in making music education more accessible and innovative.

We dive into his own journey as a musician and educator, the challenges and joys of leading a diverse music program, and how he sees the role of music evolving in both academic and community settings.

Whether you're a music lover, educator, or creative thinker, this conversation offers inspiration and thoughtful perspectives on the intersection of music, mentorship, and lifelong learning.

LCC Music webpage:

https://www.lcc.edu/academics/music/music/

Link to the LCC jazz band last Feb:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x45ylLUQzGs

Link to a website with links to album:

https://thejongewirtzquartet.hearnow.com/

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In this episode, we explore the charm, hustle, and heart behind your neighborhood coffee spots. Whether you're sipping cold brew or pulling espresso, this episode is a warm tribute to the atmosphere and ambiance behind your local coffee shops!

Kate's Honorable Mentions from the Episode:

Haraz Coffee House: https://harazcoffeehouse.com/pages/locations-and-hours

7 Brew: https://7brew.com/location/michigan-lansing-000058

Strange Matter Coffee: https://strangemattercoffee.com/

Château Coffee Company: https://www.chateaucoffeeco.com/

The Coffee Barrel: Https://thecoffeebarrel.com

Main Street Bakery and Cafe: https://mainstbakeryandcafe.com/

Moca & Co.: https://www.mokanco.com/locations/grand-river-ave

517 Coffee Company: https://www.517coffeecompany.com/

Vito’s Espresso: https://vitosespresso.com/

Risen Breakfast and Bakery: https://risenbreakfastbakery.com/

Taste Coffee Company: https://www.tastecoffeecompany.com/

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Have you ever wondered how your presence, words, or even your silence might shape someone else's day—or life? In this episode, we dive deep into the unseen influence we all carry. Whether it's a kind word, a small act of patience, or simply showing up authentically, we often underestimate the ripple effect of our actions.

You may never hear about the time you made someone feel seen, inspired a change in their mindset, or helped them choose hope. But the truth is: you're impacting people, even when you don’t realize it.

YogaConnect: Breathwork

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Ever found yourself lingering longer in a store—or suddenly feeling the urge to splurge—because of the background music? In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology of sound with special guest Vic Veda, Vice President, Communications at Michigan Retailers Association. We will break down how tempo, genre, and even volume can influence what we buy, how long we stay, and how we feel while shopping.

From the science behind supermarket playlists to the strategic soundscapes of luxury boutiques, discover how music is subtly guiding your shopping decisions—whether you realize it or not.

Tune in to learn:

1. Why slow jazz might make you spend more in a wine shop
2. How brands use curated playlists to craft identity and emotion
3. The role of music in online vs. in-store shopping behavior

Press play and get ready to rethink your retail therapy—soundtrack and all.

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