Glass Half Full

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Ever felt stuck in your own head, trying to think your way out of difficult emotions? Susan Hensley discovered a powerful alternative when she picked up some crayons during the pandemic and let her "inner five-year-old get loose." This simple act of creative play opened a doorway to profound healing and self-discovery that changed the trajectory of her life.

Susan joins us to share how art journaling became her pathway from corporate executive to transformational coach and author. With warmth and wisdom, she explains why this practice works especially well for people who don't consider themselves creative or artistic. "I have yet to meet an adult who takes themselves seriously while holding a crayon," she laughs, revealing how this simple tool helps silence our inner critic and access deeper wisdom.

What makes Susan's approach so refreshing is its accessibility. Her three-minute scribbling exercise requires nothing more than two colors and a small piece of paper. Yet this brief creative play can provide what she calls a "turbo boost" for emotional processing—helping us move through rage, fear, and uncertainty with greater ease. She shares fascinating examples of how the images and symbols that emerged in her journals revealed truths her conscious mind hadn't yet recognized, from winding paths that predicted her career transition to an open door with a yellow lab that appeared just as she was publishing her book.

For anyone navigating life's "messy middle" between endings and new beginnings, Susan offers both practical tools and compassionate perspective. Whether you're facing career changes, relationship shifts, or simply seeking more joy in your daily life, her insights on creative resilience provide a refreshing alternative to traditional self-help approaches. Try her simple exercises, explore the patterns that emerge, and discover what your soul might be trying to tell you through color, shape, and symbol.

Ready to scribble your way to greater clarity and peace? Visit susan-hensley.com for free resources to start your own art journaling practice today.

https://susan-hensley.com/

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What happens when someone survives unthinkable childhood trauma and transforms that pain into purpose? In this powerful conversation, Denise G. Lee takes us through her extraordinary journey from severe childhood abuse to recovery from sex addiction and alcoholism to becoming a trauma-informed entrepreneur coach.

With remarkable vulnerability, Denise shares how her life's theme evolved from feeling betrayed by others to recognizing how she betrayed herself, and finally to embracing complete responsibility for her healing. She recounts surviving her mother's physical, emotional, and sexual abuse until age 11, attempting suicide at just seven years old, and later developing addictions as coping mechanisms while trying to find connection and meaning.

The turning point came when a therapist confronted Denise with the reality of her sex addiction, leading her to 12-step programs where she finally found people who could see her fully—broken parts and all—while offering practical tools for healing. This experience fundamentally transformed how she understands leadership, personal growth, and coaching.

Today, Denise works with high-achieving entrepreneurs who appear successful on the outside but struggle internally. She helps them recognize how unhealed trauma manifests in their business practices and relationships, guiding them toward authentic leadership through vulnerability. "You can only lead people to the point of your own level of vulnerability," she explains, highlighting how our willingness to acknowledge our imperfections creates psychological safety for those around us.

Whether you're facing your own healing journey or leading others through change, Denise's perspective offers profound wisdom: our failures and struggles aren't a summary of who we are—they're just data points that can refine rather than define us. Ready to transform your relationship with your past while creating a more authentic future? This episode is your roadmap.

 https://info.deniseglee.com/learnwithdenise

Today's Sponsor: Body N Voice Studios https://www.bodynvoicestudios.com/

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Author and personal transformation advocate Daryl Dittmer joins me, 
Chris Levens, to unravel his remarkable story of resilience and growth. From his early years in Michigan, facing the pressures of a strict Protestant work ethic, to the crossroads of addiction and a journey to sobriety at just 19, Daryl's path is nothing short of inspiring. Through nearly four decades of sobriety, he has turned his life around, using his experiences to guide others with wisdom and compassion. 

We explore how Daryl transitioned from recovery to entrepreneurship, emphasizing principles like willingness, humility, and teachability that not only aid personal recovery but foster successful business leadership. Daryl opens up about how daily practices like breath work and meditation anchor him in the present, highlighting the importance of gratitude in personal and professional growth. His stories reveal the power of honesty, humility, and faith, shedding light on how these values have enriched both his sobriety and his entrepreneurial ventures.

As the conversation unfolds, Daryl shares heartwarming anecdotes about family, the joy of writing, and his dedication to lifelong learning. With the influence of mentors and the wisdom passed down through generations, Daryl illustrates how embracing change and self-compassion can lead to a life full of abundance and gratitude. His reflections on staying humble and teachable offer valuable insights for anyone seeking personal transformation and growth. Join us for an episode brimming with lessons on authenticity, presence, and the beauty of life's unpredictable journey.



Website: https://www.daryldittmer.com/

Books: When I Stop Fighting
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJWW8LDP
When You Stop Fighting https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFW7PSQT

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In this weeks epsiode, Chris talks with Lisa Sugarman. Lisa joins us for an episode that promises to touch your heart and mind. A celebrated author and mental health advocate, Lisa's personal journey from the tragic loss of her father to her advocacy at The Trevor Project is as inspiring as it is poignant. She opens up about how the discovery of her father's suicide reshaped her life, propelling her into a career devoted to changing the narrative around mental illness and supporting those in crisis. Lisa's story is a testament to resilience and the power of vulnerability, offering a beacon of hope for listeners grappling with their own struggles.

Together, we navigate the complex terrain of grief and healing. Lisa and I discuss how grief, while universal, is intensely personal, shaping us in unique ways. Through heartfelt conversations, we explore how sharing our stories can foster connection and aid healing, not only for ourselves but for those around us. We dive into the necessity of self-care, particularly for those working in emotionally demanding roles, with Lisa sharing personal practices like meditation and setting daily intentions that help her stay grounded.

The episode also challenges societal stigmas around mental health, with Lisa providing insights into post-traumatic growth and the transformative power of language. We discuss the importance of reframing our understanding of vulnerability and the impact of wording like "died by suicide" in fostering a compassionate perspective. Lisa's commitment to mental health advocacy shines through as she introduces her rebranded website, The Help Hub, a vital resource for support and connection. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of life, loss, and the enduring power of human connection.

Author & Columnist | 3x Survivor of Suicide Loss | Crisis Counselor with The Trevor Project | Storyteller with NAMI | Grief Group Facilitator | Mental Health Advocate

email: [email protected]

website: lisasugarman.com

linktree: linktr.ee/thelisasugarman

youtube: youtube.com/@thelisasugarman

tiktok: tiktok.com/@thelisasugarman

facebook: facebook.com/thelisasugarman

instagram: instagram.com/lisa_sugarman

linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-sugarman-16925b69

amazon author page: www.amazon.com/stores/Lisa-Sugarman/author/B00JY0DY28?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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Laurie Parente, the visionary CEO and founder of Parente Inner Harmony Academy, joins us to uncover the secrets of spiritual connection and healing. Embark on a journey through her fascinating life story, from her Calgary upbringing to her early experiences with angelic presences during childhood hospitalizations. Laurie's path illuminates the powerful role of mediumship, angel connections, and meditative healing, revealing how she embraced her unique gifts in her mid-40s to guide others on their spiritual journeys.

Listeners will gain insight into Laurie's personalized approach to spiritual guidance, focusing on connecting with spiritual guides and utilizing visualization techniques like the "soul sanctuary" to promote mental and physical well-being. We explore the mystical dimensions of the Akashic records and the profound wisdom they hold.Laurie emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and kindness as essential foundations for both personal and spiritual growth. Her teachings inspire individuals to tap into their inner resilience, gentleness, and power, fostering deeper connections with their spiritual support teams.

The conversation culminates in a celebration of patience and divine timing, essential elements in personal development and spiritual growth. Laurie shares her ongoing journey of self-improvement, including her passion for stage performances and writing, and the tools she provides to empower others. Her perspective on life as "refillable" encourages us to embrace our potential for healing and intuitive connection. Tune in to be inspired by Laurie's wisdom and learn how to unlock your own spiritual connections.

my website, laurieparente.com or on IG @laurieparente & youtube( Laurieparente)

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Can you imagine facing a terminal cancer diagnosis at 22 and still radiating positivity and strength? Today's episode of Glass Half Full is graced by Christopher Cochran, who shares his extraordinary journey of love, loss, and resilience shaped by his late son, Christian. Christopher, an author, inspirational speaker, CEO, and director of the Christian Cochran Legacy Fund, takes us through his upbringing in a supportive and creatively nurturing family, revealing how these early experiences grounded his outlook on life.

We explore the incredible bond between Christopher and Christian, a young man whose intelligence and empathy left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Diagnosed with terminal cancer just after college, Christian's response was a testament to his unyielding spirit. Through his book, "What's Good About Today," Christian's message of finding daily positives continues to inspire many. Christopher honors his son's legacy through the Christian Cochran Legacy Fund, which supports children in need, the arts, and animal welfare, and promotes initiatives that uplift inner-city kids.

Our conversation dives deep into the healing journey of Christopher's family, highlighting the importance of mindset in overcoming grief and adversity. We discuss essential leadership qualities like love, kindness, and resilience, drawing insights from Christian's life and daily choices. As we conclude, we leave you with a poignant reflection on viewing the glass as half full, urging you to find something good in every day. Join us for this heartfelt episode that promises to enlighten and inspire.

https://www.chriscochranspeaks.com/

https://www.christiancochran.org/

https://a.co/d/hULg0kl ( Amazon Book link "Whats Good About Today")

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In this weeks episode, Chris talks with Craig Meriweather. Unlock the secrets of your subconscious mind and discover effective strategies to overcome anxiety and build a confident future with our special guest, Craig Meriweather. Craig’s journey is nothing short of mesmerizing—growing up in a religious household, exploring Zen Buddhism and Sufism in Santa Cruz, and battling depression. His personal struggles turned into a mission to help others, leading him to become a certified clinical hypnotherapist and expert in medical hypnosis and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP).

Join us as Craig demystifies hypnotherapy and sheds light on how it can be a faster, more direct path to resolving deep-seated emotional traumas compared to traditional talk therapy. We’ll unravel the complexities of the subconscious mind, discuss its role in holding onto past traumas, and understand why these protective mechanisms exist. Craig also shares his experience at the Hypnotherapy Academy of America, emphasizing how hypnotherapy can access these survival instructions and reset the nervous system.

But that’s not all—you'll also gain actionable insights into managing test anxiety and resetting the nervous system. We discuss effective techniques like the 3-2-1 Reset and deep abdominal breathing to activate the parasympathetic response, inspired by the practices of the Soviet Union gymnastics team. By incorporating mental rehearsal and visualization, you can reprogram your mind for success. This episode is loaded with practical advice and inspiring stories that will leave you with a renewed sense of possibility and tools to transform your outlook on life. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Craig Meriweather on Glass Half Full.

https://aceanytest.com/

https://arizonaintegrativehypnotherapy.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@aceanytest

https://www.facebook.com/AceAnyTest

https://www.instagram.com/ace_any_test/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-meriwether-44286718b/

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How do you navigate life when it feels like every challenge is stacked against you? Join us on this eye-opening episode of "Glass Half Full" as we sit down with Win Kelly-Charles, a podcast host living with Cerebral Palsy. Win opens up about her journey from her idyllic upbringing in Aspen, Colorado, to facing significant hurdles, including the heart-wrenching experience of emotional and physical abuse by her aunt in 2019. As a mandatory reporter, Win passionately discusses the urgency of recognizing and reporting abuse, especially for individuals with disabilities.

Win's story takes us through the physically and emotionally grueling aftermath of a five-hour spinal surgery. Imagine the disorientation of waking up with a full oxygen mask on your face when you already have a condition like Cerebral Palsy, which is caused by lack of oxygen at birth. From this initial distress to battling pneumonia and a twisted bowel, Win's resilience is nothing short of extraordinary. Listen as she recounts the emotional toll of these experiences, compounded by the absence of her usual pastoral care, and how a brief visit from a determined clergy member provided a glimmer of hope.

Finally, we delve into Win's advocacy journey, from discovering her condition at a young age to fighting for necessary medical interventions like spinal fusion revisions. Her story underscores the critical importance of self-advocacy and community engagement for people with disabilities. Whether it's demanding respect in social settings or ensuring fair treatment in medical care, Win's experiences serve as a powerful call to action. This episode is an inspiring reminder of the need to challenge institutions to accommodate and recognize individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and respectful society.

https://winatlifepodcast.weebly.com/

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Ever wondered how embodying energy and vibrational frequency could transform your life? Join us for a captivating episode of "Glass Half Full," where we host the incredible Lucie Ptasznik. From her humble beginnings in suburban Detroit to building a thriving seven-figure business in the horse industry, Lucie's story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. You'll be inspired by her journey of becoming a sought-after horse trainer at just 16 years old, despite having no formal education in the field.

Lucie not only shares her personal journey but also delves into the fascinating world of energy and vibrational frequency. Discover how your emotional state affects your decision-making and learn practical strategies to raise your vibrational frequency, such as engaging with nature and changing your physiology through movement. We also discuss the critical role of maintaining a peak emotional state to align with your goals and attract financial abundance. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you harness the energy you need to achieve your dreams.

To top it all off, we explore the transformative power of gratitude, meditation, and having a clear vision for your life. Learn how a daily gratitude practice can rewire your subconscious to focus on opportunities, and how meditation can help you become the observer of your thoughts. We'll also touch on the importance of the Reticular Activating System (RAS) in keeping your mind focused on your goals. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools to break free from reactive behaviors, respond with kindness and compassion, and ultimately achieve true happiness and fulfillment. Don't miss this enriching discussion with Lucie Ptasznik—your journey to becoming the best version of yourself begins here.


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This week on "Glass Half Full" Chris talks with Dr. Tara Halliday.
Have you ever been plagued by that nagging doubt that you're just not as competent as people think? You're not alone. Join me for an intimate conversation with Tara Halliday, the exceptional imposter syndrome coach who transitioned from engineering to guiding high achievers out of the shadows of self-doubt. Tara's insights unwrap the layers of imposter syndrome, that deceptive voice that can echo in the minds of even the most successful individuals, as seen in the case of Meryl Streep. Together, we explore the complex journey from early influences to personal leadership, tackling the vital question: how do we reconcile our achievements with the way we see ourselves?

As someone who's grappled with leadership challenges, from my days as a Girl Guide patrol leader to the throes of adulthood, I've been through the gauntlet of self-questioning. Tara and I discuss strategies to calm the nervous system and reframe the way we compare ourselves to others, shifting the focus from differences to similarities. This chapter of our lives is about breaking free from the cycle of imposter syndrome and cultivating a healthier, more assured approach to both personal development and leadership.

The journey doesn't end there. Tara introduces us to the life-altering concept of unconditional worth, a beacon of hope for those lost in the sea of conditional self-worth. We share stories of transformation, celebrate the successes of those who've eschewed burnout for joy in their careers, and discuss the societal ripple effects of embracing our inherent value. By sowing seeds of self-inquiry and empowerment, this episode is an open invitation to embark on your own path to breakthroughs and growth, with the wisdom of Tara Halliday lighting the way.

Website: https://www.outsmartimpostersyndrome.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-halliday-phd/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@OutsmartImposterSyndrome

Free quiz: https://bit.ly/ImpostorQuiz

Online course: https://bit.ly/OutsmartIS

Amazon #1 best-selling books by Tara

‘Outsmart Imposter Syndrome’  (2023)

‘Unmasking: The Coaches Guide to Imposter Syndrome’ (2018)

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