Greater Than with Jen Hoverstad

Dennis Gillan describes himself as an ordinary guy with an extraordinary story of loss, perseverance, and healing.

After losing two brothers to suicide, Dennis is on a mission to prevent suicide and be a catalyst for a larger conversation around mental health.

In this episode, we explore why it's critical that we check in on the mental health of those around us, especially during COVID19. I give you a three-step tool to help you in that conversation.

Inez Ribustello is a small business owner in Eastern North Carolina. But before she started her entrepreneurial journey in her hometown of Tarboro, she worked as the beverage director for Windows on the World. On September 11, 2001, she lost her job, more than 75 of her co-workers, and the life she loved in Manhattan.

Fast forward to today, and Inez identifies similarities in her own experience of September 11 and how she's addressing the COVID19 pandemic as both a business owner and friend to many.

It's crazy to realize that we're on week 9 (at least in North Carolina) of being at home due to COVID19.

In today's episode, I challenge you to acknowledge the uncertainty that's in your life right now and hold someone else's hand as they acknowledge their fears in the unknowns of life.

In this episode, I talk with Broadway actor Rob Marnell, currently performing in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.

A graduate of Elon University's theater program, we talk about the comment that sparked Rob's determination to succeed in acting and the challenges he has faced in process.

Rob's performance portfolio includes Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Gettin' the Band Back Together, and both on-stage (Las Vegas) and on-screen performances in Jersey Boys.

Most recently Rob and his wife, Broadway actress Laurel Harris, were diagnosed with and recovered from COVID19.

In this episode, we explore the benefits of having a hobby or creative outlet. Why is it important that we do something that might be completely unrelated to our everyday work? Some of the most successful people have unique creative outlets!

If you're feeling stuck in your job, in life, this is the episode that will help you brainstorm ways to spend your time that may help unlock the answers to your frustrations.

In this episode, I talk with my longtime friend Tommy Maher, the incredible dobro player from the Asheville-based band Fireside Collective.

Tommy talks about how he didn't pick up a guitar until after high school, where he draws his inspiration, and how Fireside Collective is staying connected with fans during the pandemic.

What did the arts mean to you as a kid? From visual art to performing arts to museum field trips - what did you enjoy?

In this episode, I reflect on how I grew up singing, playing flute and piccolo and performing in productions. But, now? As an adult? I know all the lyrics to the Frozen II soundtrack, but that's about it.

I'll give you ideas for rediscovering your lost art!

When my sister, Sarah Baker, agreed to be on the podcast, my interview questions were specifically about her yoga practice. However, to my surprise, she opens up and shares how, after two miscarriages, her views of yoga shifted.

Warning: This episode includes laughter, tears, and a whole lot of sister banter. I promise you'll be inspired by Sarah's story.

In this episode, I tell you about the impact a regular yoga practice has had on my life, and why you should practice, too!