Life Stories Podcast with Shara Goswick: Real People. Inspiring Stories. Making a Difference.

In this episode, I sit down with Karen Smithson, the inspiring creator behind the Instagram account "Choosing to Reset." Karen shares her journey of holding herself accountable to get up and move every day, while also opening up about her life experiences. We discuss the motivation behind her daily movement challenge, the impact it's had on her physical and mental health, and how she hopes to inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives. You can find Karen on Instagram @choosing_to_reset. Thanks for listening!

Today I chat with Mariela DeSantiago, host of New Mom Talk, to dive into the wide range of subjects she covers in her episodes. Mariella's mission is to ensure that no woman feels alone during the transformative experience of motherhood. Join us for an honest and supportive conversation packed with practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. Discover more about Mariella and New Mom Talk at newmomtalk.com.

In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Speer, acclaimed author of books designed to empower pre-teens and teens. We delve into her insightful works that address the challenges of friendships, the complexities of middle school life, and the responsible use of cell phones. Jessica shares her inspiration, key messages, and practical advice for young readers and their parents. Her compassionate and knowledgeable approach offers valuable guidance for navigating these formative years. You can find out more about Jessica at jessicaspeer.com. Thanks for listening!

Have you ever found a resource so invaluable that you can’t wait to share it with everyone you know? That’s exactly how I felt about this interview. Deborah and her team of incredibly talented experts created The Mentor Project to offer free mentorship to any student in need. This is an absolute treasure! After you listen, please share it with someone who could benefit from The Mentor Project. Discover more about this amazing organization at mentorproject.org. Thanks for tuning in!

Today's guest, Julia DeNey, is the founder of Sense-ational You, a company that blends her fashion design expertise with her passion for helping children with sensory needs. She creates stylish, comfortable, and sensory-friendly clothing that makes a real difference for families. I was deeply moved by Julia's story of how she started and the impact she's making.As a mother of a child with autism, this conversation holds a special place in my heart. Don't miss out—listen in and share with anyone who might benefit. Discover more about Julia and Sense-ational You at shopsensationalyou.com. Thanks for tuning in!

Today's guest, Jan Hanson, lives by the motto: "We can't do everything, but we can all do something." And I couldn't agree more! Jan founded the non-profit organization 200 Orphanages Worldwide, which raises funds to support orphanages around the globe. Like all of my previous guests, Jan is making a significant impact. I hope you'll listen and be inspired to do your "something." Learn more about this incredible organization at 200orphanagesworldwide.org. Thanks for joining us!

Giving your time and money each week to help others is one thing, but starting a restaurant so people who can't afford a meal can still enjoy dining out is on another level. Mrs. Lisa McMillan's love for people shines through in everything she does, and it was an honor to speak with her! Discover more about her incredible restaurant at drexellandhoneybees.com. Thanks for tuning in!

I'm thrilled to connect with individuals who embody principles close to my heart, and my recent conversation was truly special. Moms in Prayer is an organization that unites mothers globally, gathering weekly to pray for their children and communities. It's a simple yet profoundly impactful initiative. Whether you're a parent or not, I invite you to listen and draw inspiration to initiate something similar in your community. Discover more about Moms in Prayer and access helpful resources to start your own group at momsinprayer.org. Thank you for tuning in!

I'm truly inspired by individuals worldwide making a difference. Take Julie Rutland, founder of The Gifted Gown. Her initiative offers free formalwear, makeup, and accessories to those in need. Talking to Julie was a joy; her program ensures everyone walks out fully equipped. Discover more about this incredible effort at thegiftedgown.org. Thanks for tuning in!"

After reading Maya's book, Reading for our Lives: A Literacy Action Plan from Birth to Six, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing why Maya is passionate about reading. Her bio gives you a glimpse into how she is helping families in so many ways:Maya Payne Smart is a parent educator, literacy advocate, and the author of Reading for Our Lives: A Literacy Action Plan from Birth to Six (Avery/Penguin Random House). Her website, MayaSmart.com, publishes new book lists, literacy activities, and other free family resources weekly to help parents play their dual roles as first teachers and educational advocates. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the Medill School at Northwestern University and a bachelor’s in social studies with honors from Harvard University. She serves as affiliated faculty in Educational Policy and Leadership in the College of Education at Marquette University.Whether you are raising readers at this moment or not, I believe you will enjoy this conversation. Thanks for listening!