What if your greatest challenges were actually your most profound teachers? 
 
In this soul-stirring conversation, educator and writer Daphne Gregory-Thomas weaves together the threads of loss, resilience, and transformation through her journey as an innovative educator, cancer survivor, and storyteller. Her narrative illuminates how life's greatest challenges often become our most profound teachers, from early maternal loss to creating groundbreaking educational programs for students with learning differences, and ultimately facing her own mortality through cancer diagnosis and recovery. 
 
Through her raw authenticity and deep wisdom, Daphne reveals how staying open to life's lessons - whether they come from students, strangers on New York City streets, or her own healing journey - has shaped her understanding of purpose and meaning. Her story reminds us that every moment holds the potential for transformation if we remain receptive to the teachers who appear in unexpected forms, from classroom students to cancer diagnoses, each offering their unique wisdom for those willing to listen. 
 
Daphne Gregory-Thomas is an essayist and educational innovator who spent 45 years as a high school educator in the New York/New Jersey area, specializing in programs for students with learning differences. After retiring and overcoming two cancer diagnoses, she became a patient-to-patient volunteer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and discovered her voice as a writer through their Visible Ink program. A passionate advocate for authentic living and self-advocacy, Daphne's work focuses on finding wisdom in life's challenges and staying open to unexpected teachers. Her essays explore resilience, transformation, and the power of sharing our stories. 
 
In This Episode:  
 

• (00:00) Introduction to Daphne Gregory-Thomas and her background in education 

• (02:16) Early life experiences and learning from her children as teachers 

• (07:38) Creating an innovative program for students with learning differences 

• (09:29) Impact of student's death and continued advocacy 

• (10:41) The inspiring story of student advocacy and transformation 

• (13:05) Impact of the program over 40 years and breaking educational barriers 

• (15:01) Journey through second cancer diagnosis and life-changing decisions 

• (17:37) Finding strength and wisdom from strangers on New York City streets 

• (19:11) Discovering writing through Visible Ink and service as patient volunteer 

• (21:11) Learning from grandchildren and everyday moments, developing intuition and believing in meaningful connections 

• (24:26) Finding balance and gradual transformation 

• Like and subscribe to hear all of our inspirational episodes! 

 
Resources: 
Daphne Gregory-Thomas LinkedIn  
Daphne Gregory-Thomas on Instagram 
Daphne Gregory-Thomas on Medium 
Memorial Sloan Kettering Visible Ink writing program 
 
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Visit DaraLevan.com 

In what ways did author Sheila Athens transform her personal grief into a powerful source of resilience and creativity, leading to the release of her third novel?

In this episode of "Every Soul Has a Story," host Dara Levan welcomes novelist Sheila Athens to share her inspiring journey from a corporate HR executive to a successful author. Sheila recounts her early passion for writing, which was reignited in her 40s after a serendipitous NPR ad and the support of her husband. Sheila's HR background had quite an impact on her storytelling, offering a unique perspective on human behavior that now enriches her narratives. Sheila opens up about navigating the grief of losing her husband and soulmate to cancer, finding resilience through writing and the support of a vibrant women’s writing (and hiking!) community. Her experiences highlight the importance of maintaining work-life balance and remaining open to life's serendipitous messages. With her third novel on the horizon, Sheila's story is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the courage to follow one's creative calling.

Sheila Athens writes smart fiction set where the South meets the Sunshine State. Her stories are about women navigating internal and external battles to find peace. Her stories resonate with readers who believe in everyday heroes making a difference. After growing up in the Ozarks, Sheila relocated to Northeast Florida, where she now enjoys life living near her two grown sons. From a career in corporate HR, she gained deep insights into human nature, which fuels her writing. A feminist, nature lover, and audiobook enthusiast, Sheila is also discovering the joys of cooking while embracing a quiet life of writing and reflection.

In This Episode: 

• (00:00) Sheila’s path from an HR career in corporate America to novelist
• (03:15) Career shift from journalism to business, HR career and human behavior insights, a supportive spouse and NPR ad inspiring a writing career, moving to Florida
• (11:51) Grieving her husband’s death and finding resilience, writing and community support during personal grief, creativity and planning life after loss
• (19:00) A family of men and boys, value of female friendships and writing community
• (23:30) Neena Lee is Seeing Things: the novel's unique premise, Cumberland Island, the Carnegies and Kennedys
• (28:15) Signs, synchronicities and messages, closing thoughts
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our inspirational episodes!

Resources:
www.SheilaAthens.com 
We Should All Be Millionaires
Jennie NashSign up for Dara's Newsletter
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Connect with Dara on Instagram and FacebookVisit DaraLevan.com
Visit DaraLevan.com

Why is the fight against book banning so crucial for maintaining diverse viewpoints, and how can literature empower us to embrace empathy and understanding? 
 
In this episode of "Every Soul Has a Story," host Dara Levan welcomes bestselling author Emily Bleeker. This episode is a must-listen for writers and book enthusiasts as it delves into the art of weaving historical truths into fiction, a technique brilliantly showcased in Bleeker's latest novel, "Once We Were Enemies," inspired by her grandmother's wartime experiences. You’ll hear Bleker and Levan offer a critical examination of media bias, and advocate for open access to diverse perspectives, especially amid book-banning controversies in places like Florida. Emily shares her own journey from a conservative upbringing to embracing diversity, largely influenced by her children's identities. Through heartfelt exchanges, this episode emphasizes the value of perseverance and the profound impact of empathy and connection in personal and collective transformation. It's a rich narrative tapestry that resonates deeply with those passionate about the written word and its power to change lives. 
 
Emily Bleeker is a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author of seven novels. Combined, her books have reached over two million readers and counting. When she’s not writing or mom-ing, Emily performs on the house team of a local improv group in suburban Chicago where she lives with her husband, kids and kitten muse, Hazel. 
 
In This Episode:  

• (00:00) Emily’s fiction has been inspired at times by mysterious and exciting family anecdotes, blending fact and emotion, discussing today’s parallels to WWII, and the power of firsthand experience 
• (08:09) Exploring bias and truth in media, fiction vs. nonfiction story, media literacy and book banning, humanitarian implications 
• (12:20) Changing perspectives through empathy, being a parent of non-binary and LGBTQ+ children, book banning and religious programming 
• (17:23) Emily’s journey to embracing diversity and personal growth, divorce, conservative beliefs and family history, grace and openness 
• (25:00) Challenges and rewards of pursuing difficult but meaningful paths, perseverance and personal growth 
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our inspirational episodes! 

Resources: 
https://emilybleeker.com/ 
Sign up for Dara's Newsletter 
Listen to other podcast episodes Here 
Connect with Dara on Instagram and Facebook 
Visit DaraLevan.com

How did author and writing teacher Sarahlyn Bruck’s journey through unexpected twists and turns in the publishing world lead to her ultimate success as an author? 
 
Today host Dara Levan welcomes Sarahlyn Bruck to discuss the intricate paths of the publishing world. Sarahlyn’s setbacks, and ultimate success, reveal her belief in the power of perseverance and the crucial role of timing in the industry. Sarahlyn candidly shares her experiences with various publishing houses and the significance of persistence. You’ll hear her views on feedback and encouragement as a writer, the intersection of writing and past careers, and the mental health benefits of running. With an emphasis on authenticity and positive reinforcement, Sarahlyn and Dara explore the transformative nature of writing and the vital support needed in creative endeavors. With heartfelt anecdotes and insights, this episode is a celebration of creative evolution and the enduring belief in oneself. 
 
Sarahlyn Bruck writes contemporary, book club fiction—slice-of-life stories with heart and humor centered on friendships and family. She is the award-winning author of three novels: Light of the Fire (2024), Daytime Drama (2021), and Designer You (2018). Sarahlyn lives in Philadelphia with her family and is a full-time writing and literature professor at a local community college. 
 
In This Episode:  

• (00:00) Intro to author Sarahlyn Bruck - perseverance, timing, and the lessons learned from agent feedback, challenges of finding an agent 
• (09:34) Receiving feedback, balancing criticism with positive reinforcement, the crossover between storytelling and math
• (14:00) Running and walking for mental and physical health, exercise myths
• (18:00) “No bad kids” and enjoying your children’s vibes and evolution
• (20:40) The evolution of the Every Soul podcast, (celebrating four years!)
• (22:35) Transforming personally before, during, and after writing a book, the Pitch Wars experience
• (27:05) Artists and the encouragement from loved ones, the importance of someone believing in your talents
• (31:00) Closing thoughts, how to get in touch with Sarahlyn
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our inspirational episodes! 

Resources: 
Sarahlyn Bruck 
Sarahlyn Bruck Links 
Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky at @sarahlynbruck 
Pitch Wars Comes to an End 
Sign up for Dara's Newsletter 
Listen to other podcast episodes Here 
Connect with Dara on Instagram and Facebook 
Visit DaraLevan.com

We all live with the possibility that we won’t wake up one day, but not everyone is consciously aware of that fact. Today’s guest lives with a daily reminder of her mortality. In today’s episode, you’ll hear from Andra Watkins, a New York Times bestselling author known for her captivating writing and soul-stirring speeches. Andra, who has navigated the waves of adversity with unwavering resilience and turned her life into an adventurous journey, offered us an enlightening conversation about life, growth, and self-discovery. 
  
Andra discusses her challenging circumstances and the path she’s forged. She was diagnosed with a chronic parasitic illness that led to partial blindness and grappled with family dysfunction; yet, she chose not to let these issues define her life. Listen to the episode to hear what she has to say about her medical challenges, the manipulative dynamics within her family, empathy, and her pursuit of self-discovery, acceptance, and personal growth. 
  
Topics Discussed in This Episode 
  
●      Discussion on Andra's life-changing diagnosis and its impact on her life’s perspective 
●      Andra's pursuit of adventure and exploration 
●      Deep dive into Andra's past and the dynamics of her family 
●      Andra's experiences with gaslighting, manipulation, and narcisstic personality disorder 
●      Importance of compassion and empathy in dealing 
●      Conversation on Andra's struggles with setting boundaries, particularly with her mother 
●      Loving family members from a distance and estrangement 
●      Discussion on Andra's journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and personal growth 
●      Exploration of how adversities shape our identities 
●      Reflection on finding blessings in challenging situations 
 
Resources 
Andra Watkins 

Bringing my first book to life felt like an emotional adventure akin to childbirth—filled with excitement, challenges, and profound self-discovery. In this heartfelt solo episode of "Every Soul Has a Story", I share about the intense journey of editing, revising, and ultimately letting go of my "book baby". With poignant advice from a dear friend guiding me, I reflect on the incredible personal and professional growth I’ve experienced over the past six months. A highlight I cherish deeply is the warmth and acceptance I felt at my initial big book event in Miami, where my friend, Brad Meltzer, introduced me.   

Celebrating the power of connection, I dedicate a substantial part of this episode to the meaningful exchanges I've had with listeners and readers. Whether it's Instagram, Facebook, my website, or email, your messages and stories are a vital part of this journey. I respond to each one—these interactions bring immense joy and foster our vibrant community. Tune in to learn more about my ongoing work on my second book and the lessons learned, all while navigating the often tumultuous path with integrity and kindness.  

Topics Discussed in This Episode:  

• The exhilarating and challenging journey of publishing a first book 
• Reflections on valuable advice from a friend about letting go once a book is published  
• A memorable moment at Dara’s first big book event in Miami, where her friend, Brad Meltzer,  introduced her 
• The importance of kind communication and maintaining integrity while navigating challenges 
• The role of social media in connecting with listeners and readers 
• Dara’s ongoing work on her second book and the lessons learned from her first book's journey 
• Insights on protecting oneself emotionally and professionally, including setting boundaries and recognizing the importance of community support 
• Advice on being open to helping others with communication challenges and maintaining high standards 
• Every reader matters. It’s important to take the time and listen
• Personal stories of meaningful interactions at book events 
• The importance of listening to one's body and setting boundaries

Resources: 
Dara Levan 
Dara on Instagram 
Dara on Substack

What does it mean to receive an autism diagnosis in your 40s? Today’s guest, Katie Rose Guest Pryal, J.D., Ph.D., shares her unique journey of navigating life with a late autism diagnosis—an experience surprisingly common, particularly among women. Katie is an accomplished author, mental health advocate, professor, and mother who brings a rich blend of personal and professional expertise to the conversation. Diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and autism, she has become a powerful voice in the mental health and neurodiversity communities. Katie has authored several influential books, including A Light in the Tower: A New Reckoning with Mental Health in Higher Education and Even If You’re Broken: Bodies, Boundaries, and Mental Health, both of which have won prestigious awards. Her newest work, Parenting Neurodiversity: An Insider’s Companion, is forthcoming from Johns Hopkins University Press and provides a firsthand perspective on raising neurodivergent children. She is also an author of fiction books, including The Hollywood Lights Series. 
 
In addition to her writing, Katie is a sought-after keynote speaker and educator who draws on her academic and lived experiences to shed light on mental health, disability, and neurodiversity. As an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she combines her academic background with her passion for advocacy, frequently contributing to national publications like The Chronicle of Higher Education and Psychology Today. In this episode, Katie talks candidly about the intersection of gender, identity, and neurodivergence, drawing from her experiences growing up in the 1980s, navigating societal expectations, and parenting a neurodiverse child. Katie also delves into her work within the equestrian world, where she founded the NeuroEq show team to promote awareness and accommodation for neurodivergent riders. Join us as we explore the complexities of autism, neurodiversity, and identity through the lens of Katie's remarkable journey, learning from her insights into how we can all better understand and support neurodivergent individuals in every aspect of life. 
 
Topics Discussed in This Episode 
 

• Katie's journey of receiving an autism diagnosis in her 40s and the high rate of undiagnosed autistic women and girls 

• The high rates of non-binary and queer identification within the autistic community and their vulnerability 

• Katie's reflection on her upbringing as an autistic girl in the 80s and the struggle to conform to societal norms 

• The intersection between gender identity and neurodivergence 

• Parenting a neurodivergent child with comorbidities and its impact on family dynamics 

• The influence of Katie's own diagnoses on her treatment compliance 

• The importance of incorporating neurodivergent characters in fiction and how Katie's books reflect neurodiversity 

• The effort to raise awareness and gain accommodations for neurodivergent individuals in the equestrian world 

 
Resources 
 

Katie Rose Pryal 

The journey of “Every Soul Has a Story” began with an unexpected Instagram Live session during the early COVID-19 lockdown. These impromptu conversations, born out of a need for connection, have grown into a sanctuary for authentic dialogues. This season opener is a heartfelt recounting of my personal challenges, including an unexpected surgery and the profound loss of loved ones. It’s a testament to the power of embracing life's raw and imperfect moments, which have become the cornerstone of this podcast.  
 
We're kicking off this season with stories that embody resilience and authenticity. Joining us are Katie Rose Pryal and Andra Watkins, two remarkable women whose narratives will inspire you to embrace your true self and the support of those around you. Together, we’ll delve into how living in alignment with your values can empower you to overcome adversity and live a fuller life. I invite you to enter a space where genuine connections thrive, and perfection is left at the door. Your engagement is invaluable, and I’m excited to share upcoming episodes that will further unpack these compelling themes. 
 
Topics Discussed in This Episode 

• Introduction to the new season of "Every Soul Has a Story" 

• Reflection on the podcast's beginnings as an Instagram Live show during COVID-19 lockdown 

• Dara's personal challenges, including an unexpected surgery and the loss of loved ones 

• The importance of embracing life's raw and imperfect moments 

• The podcast's evolution from spontaneous chats to structured interviews 

• The role of authenticity and connection in the podcast 

• Introduction to the first two guests of the season, Katie Rose Pryal and Andra Watkins 

• Professor and author Katie Rose Pryal's journey of resilience, including her diagnosis of autism and bipolar disorder 

• Author and speaker Andra Watkins' story of overcoming chronic illness and family challenges 

• Ways for listeners to find Dara online and connect with the podcast community 

 
Resources 

Dara Levan 
Dara on Instagram 
Dara on Substack

Today’s guest is author, poet, editor, and writing teacher Michelle Cameron. Michelle is also a director of The Writers Circle, which offers creative writing instruction to adults and kids. She recently published her fourth novel, Babylon: a novel of Jewish Captivity, which is published by Wicked Son Books.

In this episode, Michelle joins the conversation to share how she learned that we can't always predict our paths for ourselves or our children. She talks about her experiences with four different publishing houses, adapting to unexpected changes, and why both patience and persistence are important. Michelle also delves into her creative process, why she loves her craft, and how characters often lead writers to unexpected plot twists. Her favorite part of the creative process is that moment when she is birthing a new idea or story. We also discussed the fulfilling journey of growing a small organization into a larger one, teaching young creators, parenting, and much more. What an insightful, engaging, and heartfelt conversation!

Today’s guest is author Elizabeth Sumner Wafler. She recently published her fourth novel, A Cleft in the World. In this episode, Elizabeth shares how she learned that her grandfather was Jewish when she was 50 years old. Elizabeth talks about her childhood, sharing she grew up in “an insular world and provincial community” in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She talked about how her family in the ‘60s swept controversial or topics perceived as embarrassing under the rug. We laughed as we bantered about our mutual love of Yiddish, an endearing language, and that she and her cousins enjoy exchanging Rosh Hashanah cards.

Elizabeth now lives in Greenville, South Carolina. She discussed her unique writing process, cultural influences, and the fascinating revelations about her heritage that impacted her upcoming book.

We also chatted about Elizabeth’s love of words, the influence of her first editor's advice, and how observation plays a key role in storytelling. She shared how she explores the themes of identity, love, and compassion in her novels. And why it's taken her a long time to not worry about what others think of her; she lives life on her own terms. What an insightful, lively, and connective conversation!