Kindness Matters Podcast

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Get ready to be inspired as we welcome the dynamic duo, Missy Merschman and Stacey Burnham. These extraordinary women have been spreading a wave of kindness through Minnesota with their initiatives - the Anoka Kindness Rock Garden and the Minnesota Kindness Alliance. Listen as they share their experiences of participating in the Anoka Halloween Parade and the Cambridge Snowflake Parade with a stunning light-up float, and their aspirations to grace the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade someday.

We delve into the profound concept of kindness in this episode. Drawing inspiration from Missy and Stacy's work, we lay out a proposal to dedicate a day each quarter for acts of kindness. Imagine the positive ripple effect when each of us takes a moment to share a smile, hold a door open, or perform a simple act of kindness. The highlight of this episode is the upcoming Minnesota Kindness Alliance Make a Difference Day Festival - an event designed to spotlight and support local nonprofits. We also underscore the vital importance of mental health and suicide awareness in our community outreach initiatives.

The concluding segment delves into an exciting project for Make a Difference Day. Missy and Stacey share their plans to distribute gift certificates at a local grocery store. Beyond this, they dream of establishing a community house, similar to St. Clouds' COP House, a place where various organizations can unite for a common cause - providing services and support for those in need. Be inspired by these wonderful women who are making tangible changes in their communities and find out how you can jump on the kindness wagon. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

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Have you ever pondered the transformative power a simple act of kindness might have on a challenging profession like nursing? Join us in a rewarding conversation with Eva ZobianWolf, a nurse with over two decades of wisdom accumulated from her experiences in the field of emergency medicine. Eva graciously paints a vivid picture of the demanding world of rapid responses and code teams, and how a mere smile or a kind gesture can have a profound impact during these nerve-racking moments. She shares heartwarming stories of volunteer work and the touching expressions of gratitude she has received from patients throughout her nursing career. 

We shift our focus from the nursing world to explore how professions like that can shape personal identity and mindset, extending beyond the confines of the workplace. The strength and resilience required to remain kind and patient in the face of adversity is not limited to professionals in high-pressure jobs; it is a universal human attribute worth celebrating and fostering. Our discussion takes us further into self-care and stress management, spotlighting yoga's transformative power. Hear from a guest whose life was reshaped by yoga, which helped her navigate through stress and anger, ultimately altering her relationship with herself and others.

In the concluding segment, we delve into the realm of adaptive yoga, a practice that emphasizes accessibility for every individual, regardless of physical capabilities. Eva ZobianWolf, also a yoga instructor, provides valuable insights into her work with first responders, nurses, and war veterans battling PTSD. This episode reminds us of the importance of incorporating kindness, compassion, and non-judgment into our daily lives, not only as stress management tools but as essential elements of overall well-being. Don't miss out on this heartfelt conversation that celebrates the remarkable effect of compassion in life and profession.

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live from a holistic perspective, connected to something bigger than ourselves? Have you ever desired to embrace joy in the present moment and love your perfectly imperfect self? If so, you're in the right place. In our recent conversation, we had the delightful opportunity to chat with Nanci Reed, a spiritual life coach, author, and creator of the micro philanthropy project, 32 favors. Nanci uncovers her unique approach to life coaching, combining traditional elements with a spiritual dimension, all without the constraint of any specific religion. 

Brace yourselves to wrap your mind around Nancyi’s life-altering motto, "Happily Ever Now, Not After." This idea, which finds its roots in joy in the present moment and the perfect imperfection of our selves, is an absolute game-changer. Nanci explores this concept in her book, "Happily Ever Now, Not After: Everything Else is Perfect," a practical 12-week program designed to help overcome perfectionism. We also dive into Nanci's studies and teachings of A Course in Miracles, a spiritual thought system that supports her motto and overall life view.

If you're ready to be inspired, you cannot miss our conversation about Nanci’s heartwarming project, 32 favors. Nanci embarked on a mission to commit a daily act of kindness for others, which started with a dream about a race and turned into a kindness campaign. From virtual acts of kindness to helping strangers, Nanci shares her experiences and the transformative impacts it had on her life and others. This endeavor attests to the power of kindness and its potential to change lives. Join us as we explore the power of kindness, a life embraced in the present, and the beauty of our spiritual selves.

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Have you ever wondered how you can show up for those in grief, especially during the holiday season? Well, that's exactly what we'll uncover in this episode with our guest, Heidi Dunstan, an author, grief coach, and someone who has personally navigated the unexpected loss of her husband. Heidi shares her heart-wrenching journey, unveiling the importance of understanding and supporting those who are grieving. Together, we explore the misconceptions around grief and stress the importance of open communication, respect, and avoiding judgment.

One thing we must remember is that grief isn't linear – it can catch people off guard. Heidi's unique insights will guide us on how to effectively hold space for those in grief, what to say, what not to say, and the sheer significance of simply being there with them. Additionally, we highlight the pressing need to change the narrative around grief, underscoring the importance of showing grace and understanding to those on this challenging journey.

As we round off this episode, we reflect upon the broader theme of kindness. We address the power of rooting for others, complimenting strangers, and encouraging people to believe in themselves. These acts of kindness, no matter how small, can indeed make a significant difference in the world around us. Remember to tune in next week for another heartwarming episode of the Kindness Matters podcast. Our conversations aim to spark kindness, foster understanding, and empower each of us to be a beacon of compassion in our everyday lives.

If you are interested in attending Heidi's free Masterclass, "Lean into Grief Through the Holidays" on December 6th, you can register here.

Also you can follow Heidi on Social Media
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Imagine having the power to shape your future, energize and engage your teams, and build strong relationships. This episode delivers just that, with the amazing insights of our guest, Brian Biro, known as America's Breakthrough Speaker. Brian has a unique blend of experience - he has been a swimming coach, author of 16 books, and a speaker who has made over 1,800 presentations, leaving a trail of inspiration and life-changing principles.

During our intriguing conversation, Brian shares a wealth of knowledge from his journey through three career paths. He opens up about the valuable lessons he learned as a coach which he has seamlessly transitioned into the corporate world, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. He helps us redefine the concept of leadership, reminding us that everyone has the potential to be a leader, capable of shaping their destiny and making decisions that impact others positively. Notably, Brian introduces us to 'breakthrough leadership' - the ability to channel our vision into shaping the future.

Moreover, we uncover the subtle power of kindness and gratitude with Brian. He shares research that reveals a fascinating correlation between kindness and success. Brian emphasizes the necessity to appreciate people's effort, energy, and attitude before acknowledging their results. He also shares how gratitude can revolutionize our lives, and how becoming a great buddy thinker is key. This episode is a masterclass in personal development, leadership, and the power of positivity. Tune in to learn from Brian Biro's transformative principles and make your breakthrough today!

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Ever wonder how embracing your quirks can set you on a path to success? This episode is a testament to just that. We get up close and personal with Joey Natale, the charismatic founder of Grow Our Light. Joey’s fascinating journey started from accepting his 'nerdiness' and ADHD, leading him to become a celebrated public speaker and coach. We dive into an enriching conversation about the importance of health, the honor in being a 'nerd', and how to express yourself in a way that resonates with others. Joey generously shares his insights on enhancing social skills and articulating your thoughts in a way that can truly make an impact.

We continue our dialogue with Joey, focusing on how integral kindness is to his coaching approach. We dialogue about the fine line between loneliness and solitude, and how to find peace in your own company. We explore the realms of self-love and shadow work, helping you understand their true essence. This episode is more than just a conversation, it's an invitation to realize the value of kindness, not just as a virtue, but as a tool to achieve your aspirations and build meaningful relationships. It's a gentle nudge towards remembering that kindness, like any other skill, needs to be nurtured and practiced. Come join us, and discover how kindness can deepen your ability to love and be compassionate towards others.

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What if we told you that yoga can lead to more than just physical wellness but can also inspire acts of kindness and community service? This is precisely the journey our guest today, Laura Mickler, embarked on. A yoga enthusiast turned certified instructor, Laura is the heart and soul behind the Sacred Steps Studio and Store. Recovering from surgery, distressed, and overwhelmed, she found solace in yoga. The studio was her beacon, leading her through challenging times, and now, she lights the way for others seeking the same path.

But Laura's story doesn't stop there. In a surprising twist, we discover how she repurposed a box truck into Millie. Millie, a moving service that's more than just transportation. Listen as Laura passionately shares how she transformed this service into a lifeline for local non-profits. From distributing prom dresses to replacing furniture for families devastated by house fires, Laura identifies needs and fills them, creating ripples of kindness in the community. She also shares her involvement with Secret Families, a program offering holiday gifts to families in need. So brace yourselves, because this episode isn't just about yoga and a moving service, but a tale of resilience, determination, kindness, and the extraordinary power of community.

If this episode spoke to you, inspired you, motivated you to do more kindness in the world, please consider sharing!

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Ever walked out of a store and been asked to show your receipt? Well, imagine being the employee who has to enforce that policy and faces the wrath of irate customers every day. That's the reality for Nancy, a diligent store greeter who's at the heart of our discussion today. We shine a light on the unsung heroes of our shopping season - the frontline workers who often bear the brunt of misplaced anger and frustration. 

Let's change the narrative this holiday season. Meet a woman who gifted a mere candy bar to a cashier and left a profound impact in return. A story like this serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference. It's time to foster a culture of gratitude and appreciation, especially towards those who serve us day in and day out. After all, amid the holiday hustle, your encouraging words or a simple thank you could be the bright spot in someone's hectic day.

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Ever wonder what it's like to grow up in one of the premier Italian restaurants in the nation, only to watch it all crumble in a federal grand jury investigation? Maria Palmer, co-author of the book, On the Rocks, offers us a front row seat to her father's life, from his meteoric rise to the top of the restaurant industry to his abrupt fall. While captivating us with her father's story, Maria also shares her own journey, a transition from vibrant Pittsburgh to the bustling cities of Los Angeles, and her transformation into a passionate advocate in the non-profit sector.

Through a tale of resilience and dedication, Maria talks about her experience with the organization Get on the Bus, a heartwarming initiative that helps children visit their incarcerated mothers on Mother's Day. Her narrative offers us an inspiring testament of service, exemplifying its profound impact on both individuals and communities. Maria's work with the St Paul's Community Development Corporation and her ongoing commitment to service make this conversation an enlightening journey.

Our chat concludes with Maria's touching account of a group of high school students who chose to serve rather than bask in the glitz of prom night. As we reflect on these students' decision and the power of the intergenerational experiences, we are reminded of the importance of connection and meaning in our lives. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with kindness, resilience, and an unwavering spirit of service. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and motivated by Maria Palmer's poetic retelling of her life story.

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Ever found yourself lost in the noise of social media, struggling to find the silver linings of kindness in a world filled with division and negativity? Listen up, because you're not alone. Brieonna Aljets, real estate instructor, advocate of kindness, and host of the podcast, What's the Cheese? joins us on this riveting episode of Kindness Matters. She shares insights from her personal journey, discussing the roots of bullying, the controversial nature of differing beliefs, and the power of kindness to unite us all. 

Catch an intimate glimpse into Brieonna’s life as she opens up about her husband's battle with cancer, their mutual journey of acceptance, and the transformation of their life perspectives. From the struggles of dealing with an ostomy bag during camping trips to witnessing Mike’s mother's triumphant victory over breast cancer without chemo or radiation, Brieonna’s stories are nothing short of inspiring. Additionally, she shares thought-provoking perspectives on adult behavior in youth sports and the path they paved for their son's passion for rock climbing. Ready for a heartwarming, insightful conversation? Join us for this episode of Kindness Matters with Brieonna Aljets.

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