In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Michele DeFilippo discuss the complexities and realities of independent publishing. They explorethe misconceptions surrounding traditional and hybrid publishing, the importance of understanding the economics of book sales, and the necessity of professional editing and design. Michele emphasizes the importance of authors maintaining control over their work and profits, while also offering insights into the publishing process, including the significance of ISBNs and potential pitfalls to avoid. The discussion highlights the advantages of self-publishing and the importance of marketing and distribution strategies for authors.

In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Teri M. Brown, an author and resilience advocate, who shares her transformative journey of healing through a tandem bike adventure across the United States. Teri discusses her past experiences with emotional abuse, the importance of communication in relationships, and the life lessons learned during her ride. She emphasizes the importance of not giving up on bad days, the power of self-expression, and the courage it takes to reinvent oneself at any stage of life. The discussion is filled with insights that resonate with anyone facing challenges, particularly mothers balancing family and personal growth.

In this engaging conversation, Bria Rose, a romance author, shares her journey from working at Disney to becoming a dark romance writer. She discusses the influence of Disney on her storytelling, the complexities of characters in her retellings, and her independent publishing journey. Bria offers valuable writing advice and insights into the themes of her work, emphasizing the importance of creativity and personal expression in writing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of publishing and the excitement of connecting with readers through her unique stories.

In this conversation, I’m joined by high-conflict divorce strategist and author Lisa Johnson to unpack legal abuse—when an ex weaponizes the justice system to exhaust you emotionally and financially. We get practical: red flags to watch for, how to document every interaction without losing your mind, why “parallel parenting” often beats “co-parenting,” and what to do when your ex starts turning your kids against you (a reality facing an estimated 22 million parents in the U.S. and Canada). Lisa blends story with step-by-step tactics you can use this week—communication scripts, evidence logs, and court-ready timelines—so you can show up calm, credible, and prepared. If you or someone you love is stuck in a custody war with a relentless ex, this one’s a lifeline. This episode offers education, not legal advice.

Parenting a child with disabilities is never simple—but it can be profoundly transformative. In this episode of Jess Saying, Jessica sits down with John Fela, who calls himself the “Swiss Army Knife of Disability Advocacy.” As the father of a 16-year-old son with autism who is also nonverbal, a former elementary educator of 20 years, and now a national advocate through his work with Joni and Friends, John Fela brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the conversation. Together, they discuss the joys and challenges of raising a child with special needs, the power of faith-based community support, and how one parent’s advocacy has grown into a national platform for change. Get ready for honesty, hope, and the kind of wisdom only lived experience can provide.

Motherhood is beautiful but messy, and sometimes it feels like life’s challenges pile on all at once. In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Fiona Demark — a professional speaker, coach, and author — to talk about how moms can cultivate resilience, reframe challenges, and prioritize their wellbeing. Fiona shares her powerful story of living with a disability, as well as practical tools for shifting mindset and finding joy in everyday moments. Ifyou’ve ever needed a reminder that you’re stronger than you think, this episode is for you.

In this conversation, Tommy Kilpatrick shares his journey of overcoming $85,000 in credit card debt through a unique legal approach. He discusses how he uncovered what he believes to be bank fraud and the importance of understanding the nature of credit cards and loans. Tommy emphasizes the need for financial literacy and encourages listeners to question the banking system and their own financial agreements. He also introduces his book, 'Forgive and Forget: How to Nuke Your Credit Card Debt,' which outlines his strategies for dealing with debt and advocating for oneself in the financial system.

SHOW NOTES:

Amazon Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1DV398C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T2J79MRKEUEU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.G90ZVPhD0xasgrjK1S6Zav-5RWRmyKGJXLtFrEC-vmXA6jUGS2pViUpmSgWO-Ej1.kCp4IluM5LPmPjlMj27czPETspNIHPNSRAuqq-BBEgw&dib_tag=se&keywords=forgive+and+forget+by+kilpatrick&qid=1738377754&sprefix=forgive+and+forget+by+kilpatrick%2Caps%2C328&sr=8-1

Landing Page https://www.diy-debtrelief.com/

1. Banks don't lend money: https://www.educatedinlaw.org/2017/03/banks-dont-take-deposits-banks-dont-lend-money/#https://youtube.com/shorts/zmkLfzjMcIU?si=wU3cO42SyVcawZmb

2. Banks must have a promissory note for the bank to grant aloan. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Modern_Money_Mechanics.pdfThe Federal Reserve says the only way a bank can make a loan is if you firstsign a promissory note to pay and the bank will enter numbers in your freechecking account. Page six, right column, second paragraph, second line.

3. Fraud undoes all contracts. https://casetext.com/case/vokes-v-arthur-murray-incThe bank says you used the card, therefore you are contracted to our terms andconditions, but Hirschman v. Hodges, etc., (1910) In this case, the FloridaSupreme Court found that a contract could be rescinded based on fraudulentmisrepresentation.

4. Banks match your deposits and all you have to do is towithdraw it and close the account; the same when the bank gave (GAVE YOU) abank-issued alleged credit card that was in fact a “Gift Card” to induce you tobe a customer, in this video he explains how to get free money from the bank: https://youtube.com/shorts/CbGSRvHgbKQ?si=9WOLMhxBMbKA6OtQ

5. Dave Ramsey on CC Debt Relief Companies that scam you. https://youtube.com/shorts/MgEJIocyefc?si=43SEAZY4gphYPxw-

In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Michelle Choairy discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with complex needs. They share personal stories about their experiences in the NICU, the journey of diagnosis, and the importance of advocacy and support for parents. Michelle introduces her Thrive method, which helps parents organize their approach to caring for their children. They also delve into the intricacies of IEP meetings, the emotional aspects of parenting, and the resources available for families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and knowledge in navigating the complexities of raising special needs children.

In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Lucy Milligan Wahl discuss the intricacies of home organization, emphasizing the psychological aspects of clutter and the importance of establishing effective systems. Lucy shares her expertise on decluttering, organizing, and the emotional ties people have to their belongings. They explore practical steps for maintaining an organized home, the role of family involvement, and the challenges of consumerism. The discussion also touches on the significance of teaching children organizational skills and the potential of digital solutions in managingclutter. Lucy's journey to becoming a professional organizer is highlighted, along with resources for those seeking to improve their home organization.

What happens when you trade bachelor life for caregiving? Mark Steven Porro, author of the award-winning memoir A Cup of Tea on the Commode, shares his unforgettable journey caring for his ninety-year-old mother. Through humor, love, and resilience, Mark found joy in one of life’s hardest roles — and became a better man for it. In this heartfelt episode of Jess Saying, we celebrate caregivers, talk about finding laughter in difficult times, and explore the life-changing lessons that come with caring for those who once cared for us.