Life Shift | True Stories of Healing, Grief & Loss

The Life Shift Rewind

I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

Diane Diaz is back on The Life Shift for a bonus episode that digs into the heavy stuff—specifically, the impact of toxic relationships and the journey to reclaiming one’s identity.

We chat about how Diane's experiences shaped her understanding of what it means to carry dead weight and the pivotal moments that pushed her to break free. It’s not just about sharing her story; it's about the realization that many folks feel trapped in their own narratives, and sometimes, it takes a conversation to spark change. Diane emphasizes the importance of storytelling, revealing how her past has equipped her with resilience and empathy, allowing her to help others find their voices.

So, if you’re in a place where you feel stuck, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to Diane Diaz's full episode on The Life Shift – https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/triggered-by-two-words-leaving-a-toxic-relationship-diane-diaz/

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In this episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Susan Lieu, a Vietnamese American playwright, performer, and author, who shares her powerful journey of healing and self-discovery after losing her mother at a young age. Through her art, Susan has found a way to process her pain, reclaim her narrative, and inspire others to embrace vulnerability and the power of storytelling.

Susan takes us through her childhood as the daughter of Vietnamese refugees, growing up in a bustling household filled with extended family. She recounts the pivotal moment when, at just 11 years old, her mother tragically passed away due to complications from plastic surgery. This loss not only shattered Susan's world but also led to years of silence and unresolved grief within her family.

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of intergenerational trauma and the expectations placed upon children of immigrants. 

As you listen to this episode, consider:

Join us for this inspiring conversation that reminds us of the healing power of storytelling and the beauty of embracing our whole selves – imperfections and all.

Susan Lieu is a multi-hyphenate storyteller, activist, and author. Through her book, podcast, and live performances, Susan takes audiences on a journey of healing intergenerational trauma, embracing authenticity, and finding boldness in vulnerability.

Susan is the creator of her theatrical solo show "140 LBS: How Beauty Killed My Mother," which received critical acclaim from the LA Times, NPR, and American Theatre. Her debut memoir, The Manicurist’s Daughter (Celadon), is an Apple Book Pick of the Month and Must Listen of the Month, and has received accolades from The New York Times, NPR Books, Elle Magazine, and The Washington Post.

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

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Special guest: Pamela Topjian

The Life Shift Rewind

I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

Pamela Topjian joins us for this bonus episode, exploring the transformative power of storytelling and its role in healing. We discuss how sharing our narratives not only empowers us but also fosters connections with others who may relate to similar experiences. Pamela reflects on her own journey, highlighting how pivotal moments—like purchasing a bus ticket that changed her life—can often arise from seemingly small decisions. She emphasizes the importance of engaging in conversations that enable us to explore our past while looking toward the future. This honest chat serves as a reminder that everyone has a story worth sharing, and by doing so, we can inspire and support one another through life’s challenges.

Listen to Pamela's full episode: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/a-bus-ride-to-finding-hope-overcoming-childhood-trauma-to-start-anew-pamela-topjian/

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Life Shift Rewind

Out of the vaults, I am sharing the bonus episodes from Patreon, where I went back and spoke to previous guests about what's changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I only have the lower tiers now, I wanted to share these conversations with the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

Marz Marcello is back on The Life Shift in this bonus episode, diving into the deep waters of identity and transformation. We explore the significance of a haircut that marked a profound turning point in Marz's life. What seems like a simple decision becomes a powerful symbol of self-acceptance and authenticity. Marz shares how cutting their hair short catalyzed a journey of embracing their true self, shedding societal expectations and personal doubts that had weighed them down for so long.

Listen to Marz' full episode: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/a-haircut-pronouns-and-complete-authenticity-cristina-marcello/

Stay tuned for more from The Life Shift Rewind.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

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Robert Peterpaul returns to The Life Shift Podcast to talk about the profound impact of kindness, particularly in the face of tragedy.

The Life Shift Rewind

I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

He shares his personal story about losing his brother to cancer at a young age and reflects on how those experiences shaped his understanding of compassion and community. Throughout our chat, we explore how acts of kindness can serve as a lifeline during tough times, highlighting that these moments help us heal and connect us deeply with others. Robert's insights remind us that kindness is not just a nice thing to do; it's essential to our humanity.

Check out the full episode here: The Art of Kindness in the Face of Tragedy - Robert Peterpaul – https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/the-art-of-kindness-in-the-face-of-tragedy-robert-peterpaul/

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt like your true self was hidden behind societal expectations? In this heartwarming episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Trystan Reese, a transgender man who shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery, love, and family.

Trystan takes us through his early years growing up in the conservative Mojave Desert, where he felt like a "certified weirdo" without many role models. Despite the challenges, his Canadian parents gave him the freedom to explore his identity, setting the stage for his future transformation.

Join us for this inspiring conversation that challenges our perceptions of family, love, and personal growth. Trystan's journey reminds us that by being true to ourselves, we can create a life filled with joy, purpose, and meaningful connections.

Trystan Reese is an award-winning author and facilitator dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. He has nearly two decades of experience in the trans community. His acclaimed book, How We Do Family, was released in 2021, and he co-authored the children's book The Light of You with his partner, Biff Chaplow.

A Lambda Literary Fellow, Trystan's storytelling gained attention through a viral performance on The Moth MainStage, featured in the 2024 anthology A Point Of Beauty. He founded Collaborate Consulting to provide training on LGBTQ+ inclusion and has contributed to various mental health and social justice anthologies. Trystan lives in Portland, Oregon, with Biff and their three children: Riley, Sully, and Leo.

Learn more at Trystan Reese's website and Collaborate Consulting.

https://www.trystanreese.com/

https://collaborate.consulting/

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

Connect with me:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube

Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast

Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

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In this bonus episode of The Life Shift Podcast, I sit down with Angela Hollowell for an honest and inspiring conversation about the challenges and growth that come with creative endeavors. Angela and I reflect on our experiences tackling a 30-day daily podcasting challenge, sharing lessons on vulnerability and authenticity, and redefining success in the creator economy. We also dive into the emotional impact of pushing creative boundaries and balancing personal storytelling with professional goals. This episode is a candid exploration of what it means to embrace the creative process fully, and I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Takeaways:

Creative Challenges Push Us to Grow

Angela and I took on a 30-day daily podcasting challenge, which was as daunting as it sounds. For Angela, it was a chance to experiment with new formats and bridge the gap between her podcast and newsletter. It was an opportunity to share more of myself and push through the discomfort of imperfection. The challenge reminded us that growth often happens when we step outside our comfort zones, even if the process sometimes feels overwhelming. By the end, we both gained a deeper understanding of our creative potential and how to navigate intense commitments.

Authenticity and Vulnerability Build Deeper Connections

Throughout our conversation, Angela and I emphasized the importance of showing up authentically and being vulnerable. Angela shared how podcasting has allowed her to connect with her audience in new and meaningful ways. Similarly, I reflected on how my podcast creates a space for guests to open up and share personal stories. We both agreed that intentionality and authenticity are key to building genuine connections with listeners and finding joy and purpose in our creative work.

Success Is Personal and Not Defined by Numbers

One of the most valuable lessons we unpacked was that success in podcasting—or any creative endeavor – is deeply personal. Angela and I discussed how the pressure to meet external metrics, like downloads or sponsorships, can overshadow the real purpose of creating. Instead, we’ve both focused on defining success in ways that align with our values. For Angela, that’s about balancing personal storytelling with professional goals. It’s about creating a space where human stories can inspire connection and understanding.

About Angela Hollowell

Angela Hollowell is a creator, podcaster, and advocate for authenticity in the creator economy. Her thoughtful approach to bridging storytelling platforms and experimenting with creative formats has resonated with audiences and creators alike. Angela’s work exemplifies the beauty of vulnerability, intentionality, and creative exploration.

Connect with Angela:

Visit the website: https://www.honeyandhustle.co

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AngelaHollowell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelahollowell/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/honeyandhustle

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

Connect with me:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube

Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast

Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features a heartfelt exploration of pivotal life moments as I ask my guests what they would say to their past selves right before their life shifts. Dena Rueb Romero reflects on the journey of writing her book, emphasizing the importance of kindness to oneself during difficult times. Jenn Drummond shares a powerful message about pausing and trusting that things will turn out better than expected, while Ann Anderson Evans highlights the significance of simply being present for others in their struggles. Chad Foster offers a perspective on embracing one's true self, and Nina Rodriguez underscores the value of companionship and support during challenging experiences. Join me as we dive into these inspiring responses that remind us we're not alone in our journeys.

Takeaways:

Guest Appearances in order:

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

Connect with me:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube

Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast

Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

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Have you ever felt stuck in a financial rut, wondering if there's a way out? In this inspiring episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Audrey Faust, a business financial coach who transformed her life from struggling at the poverty line to becoming a millionaire.

Audrey shares her journey of financial transformation, beginning with a pivotal moment when she realized she was eligible for an earned income credit. This eye-opening experience forced her to confront the reality of her financial situation and sparked a determination to create a better future for herself and her family.

Audrey's story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-belief in achieving financial success. Her experiences offer valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their financial situation, regardless of their starting point.

As you listen to this episode, consider:

Join us for this motivating conversation that reminds us it's never too late to take control of your financial future and create the life you desire.

• Audrey Faust is an Expert CFO, Business Financial Coach, and Money Mindset Authority who helps entrepreneurs create financial strategies to scale their businesses for increased profit and growth. Through her unique blend of financial expertise and mindset coaching, Audrey empowers her clients to master their financial data with clarity and confidence. She is the author of She Grows Rich, which provides actionable steps for women to become financial powerhouses. audreyfaustconsulting.com

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

Connect with me:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube

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Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

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Have you ever felt like you don't quite fit into the boxes society tries to put you in? Martha S. Jones, a historian and writer, shares her powerful journey of self-discovery and identity in this thought-provoking episode of the Life Shift podcast.

Born to parents who defied societal norms in the 1950s, Martha grew up navigating the complexities of race and identity in a world that often struggled to understand her. She recounts a pivotal moment in college when a classmate challenged her right to speak about Black history, forcing her to confront questions about who she was and where she belonged.

Martha's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-reflection. Her experiences offer valuable insights for anyone grappling with questions of identity, belonging, and the impact of family history on our lives.

As you listen to this episode, consider:

Join us for this inspiring conversation that reminds us of the beauty and complexity of the human experience, and the importance of sharing our stories with the world.

Martha S. Jones is the Society of Black Alumni Presidential Professor and professor of history at Johns Hopkins University. The prizewinning author and editor of four books, most recently Vanguard, she is a past co-president of the Berkshire Conference of Women Historians and has contributed to the New York Times, Atlantic, and many other publications.

• For more information, please visit her website at https://marthasjones.com/

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/

The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/

Connect with me:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube

Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast

Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

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