Life's Checkmark: Overcoming Adversity, Finding Purpose

How One Man's Mission Fed 200,000+ Kids with Tom Cottar EP | 191

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Tom Cottar, the heart behind Backpack Friends, a grassroots effort that's provided food security for over 200,000 kids in Texas. We talk about Tom's personal childhood as one of "those kids" in need, the challenges and mistakes along the way, and how something small grew into a movement that fills not only bellies, but lives. Tom shares practical advice, the huge impact that simple actions make, and stories guaranteed to move you. Whether you're looking to serve your neighborhood or start building a bigger purpose, this episode will encourage you to step up, figure it out, and trust the gifts only you can bring.

5 Key Takeaways:

• Real numbers behind childhood hunger in our own neighborhoods
• Why "just saying yes" is the key to starting anything meaningful
• Simple steps to launch a local impact project
• The ripple effect of helping even one child
• How to keep going when things feel overwhelming

Connect with Tom Cottar: Website: https://www.backpackfriends.com

Podcaster's Hub: https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Optimize Your Health: Milvia Pili on Blue Zone Nutrition & Reversing Hypothyroidism Naturally EP | 190

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I connect with Milvia Pili, a nutritionist from Sardinia, one of the world's five Blue Zones, famous for longevity. Milvia shares how she reversed her hypothyroidism and other chronic conditions without medication, simply by embracing traditional food wisdom and healing her gut. We talk about making healthy choices, creating new habits, and the power of asking the right questions about your health. If you're looking for inspiration to take control of your wellbeing, this conversation with Milvia will give you practical tools and hope. Plus, I want you to share your own health journey with us. Drop a comment or message and let the community hear your story!

Key Takeaways:

• Small daily habits make a huge difference
• Natural strategies for thyroid health
• Food can be real medicine
• Accountability supports lasting change
• Longevity starts with your choices

Connect with Milvia Pili:

Website: https://bluezonenutrition.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1345506153134296

Join the Podcaster's Hub: https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about

Life's Checkmark Podcast: https://www.lifescheckmark.com

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Faith and Hope After Tragedy: Carrie Eaton's Story of Loss and Recovery EP | 189

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Carrie Eaton, who opens up about her journey through profound loss, grief, and the power of faith. Carrie shares how caring for her mom, writing two books, and trusting God's plan brought her out of darkness and into a place of hope. We talk about family struggles, mental health, and what it means to keep moving forward even when life throws you the hardest curveballs. This conversation is about finding strength, building faith, and helping others who are facing tragedy. If you've walked a tough path or just need some encouragement, you'll find so much value in Carrie's story; it's a call to action for listeners to share their own journeys. Your story matters; join the conversation and let us know how you've grown and healed.

Key Takeaways:

• Trust builds resilience
• Faith brings hope during loss
• Gratitude changes perspective
• Everyone grieves differently
• Helping others grows healing

Connect with Carrie Eaton:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chvycwgrl4

Purchase Book: Walking in the Fullness of Joy After Tragedy https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/walking-in-the-fullness-of-joy-after-tragedy-carrie-eaton/1149130882

Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Purpose Through Connection: The Power Of Community With Jon Emery

In this episode, I open up about feeling alone, reaching out for help, and how joining communities, from men's groups to podcasting networks, helped me grow into who I am today. I share real moments of hitting rock bottom, the breakthroughs I had connecting with others, and how stepping outside my comfort zone changed everything. You'll hear about building Life's Checkmark, ranking top 20, and how every listener (that means you!) is part of this movement. If you're ready to make a change, you're not alone. This episode is for anyone wanting clarity, hope, and a fresh start.

Key Takeaways:

• How reaching out can turn things around

• Faith and timing guide your journey

• Community creates lasting impact

• Getting outside your comfort zone pays off

• Every story (including yours) matters

Connect with Me (Jon Emery): Website: https://www.lifescheckmark.com

Email: [email protected]

Want to be a guest or connect directly? Email me through my site or DM me on social!

Podcasters and Aspiring Podcasters. Check out Podcaster's Hub https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Share Your Journey! I want to hear your story! Every listener has faced their own highs and lows. Leave a comment, send a message, or reach out to me with your own life journey, your checkmarks matter. Let's inspire each other to keep moving forward. [email protected]

Are You In A Toxic Relationship? Navigate Exiting A Toxic Relationship with Rania EP | 187

In this heartfelt episode of Life's Checkmark, I talk with Rania, a resilient relationship coach and survivor from Toronto who gets real about her upbringing, breaking cultural molds, and facing toxic relationships head-on. Together, we get honest about recognizing signs of conditional love, finding the courage to break unhealthy patterns, and the everyday process of healing and self-love. Whether you're seeking support, feeling stuck, or looking for hope after toxic relationships, this episode proves that you're never alone in your journey. Tune in for true stories, actionable insights, and a reminder that you can always rewrite your story.

• Spot the signs of conditional vs. unconditional love

• How past patterns show up in new relationships

• Why self-love is essential, not selfish

• Steps to safely leave a toxic relationship

• Strategies for ongoing healing and growth

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r2rcoaching/

• Podcast Website: https://healingtrain.ca/

• Email: [email protected]

Join a Podcaster Community, Podcaster's Hub

Listen to Life's Checkmark Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Balancing Business and Relationships: Daniela Roman Shares Her Story of Food, Family, and Resilience EP | 186

In this inspiring episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Daniela Roman, a powerhouse in the kitchen, entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Daniela's Delicious Delights. Daniela opens up about growing up in a traditional Italian family, launching her own catering business, and supporting her husband Emilio through both publishing and life. Her story is filled with lessons learned from self-taught hard work, family loyalty, navigating business with a spouse, and knowing when to ask for help. We talk about struggles, wins, and how keeping the family bond alive over a meal can shape your whole outlook. Daniela's honest sharing is a reminder that our stories matter. I invite YOU to share your journey—your lessons could help someone else on their path!

Key Takeaways:

• Why asking for help matters
• How to discover and know your worth
• Making the kitchen fun & stress-free
• Balancing business and family relationships
• The importance of giving more than you get

Connect with Daniela Roman: Website: https://www.danielasdeliciousdelights.com Email: [email protected]

Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast: https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource

Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Battling Thyroid Cancer, Anxiety and Desperately Searching For Joy with Courtney Hancock EP | 185

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Courtney Hancock—nurse, mom of four, podcast host, and author of "My Diamond Within." We talk about balancing motherhood, health battles, and building something meaningful even when life feels overwhelming. Courtney opens up about battling thyroid cancer, anxiety, and feeling stuck, but she also reveals how she kept moving forward, why small moments matter, and how her book is inspiring others to find hope and joy in their struggles. If you've ever felt weighed down or needed encouragement, Courtney's story will remind you that you're not alone and you can write your own comeback.

5 Amazing Key Takeaways:

• Simple joys help us get through tough times
• Everyone's journey with struggle is different
• Small steps and self-kindness matter
• You can find purpose, even in hard moments
• Your story can help someone else

Connect with Courtney Hancock:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyrhancock/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/courtney.hancock.790

Amazon: My Diamond Within Book https://a.co/d/7O2LxL6

Listen to The Diamond Within Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/25Nj5fozP6LwtFDZuHZHRW?si=8979283c49a94f6c

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtneyrhancock

Podcasters and Aspiring Podcasters Check Out Podcaster's Hub https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714

Listen to Life's Checkmark Podcast: https://podfollow.com/lifescheckmark

Finding Strength in Grief: The Power of Asking How Over Why to Heal and Thrive with Debbie Simmons EP | 184

It's Jon Emery, and in this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Debbie Simmons for a raw, uplifting conversation about how life's hardest moments can spark powerful change. Debbie shares her incredible story of overcoming heartbreak, building resilience after losing her quadruplets, adopting nine children, and founding a thriving ministry. Her journey is all about asking the right questions, daring to dream again, and finding true meaning beyond worldly success. We talk about faith, family, leadership, and how every setback can be a setup for significance. Whether you're facing your own challenges or looking to make a bigger impact, Debbie's wisdom will inspire you to pursue your calling with purpose and courage.

Key Takeaways:

• Moving from success to significance
• Turning loss into hope for others
• The power of asking "how" over "why"
• Learning to lead with impact
• Staying committed through life's challenges

Connect with Debbie Simmons: Website: https://www.thedebbysimmons.com

Free Book: https://www.theheartoflegacy.com

Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource

Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Your 2026 Goals Depends On This

In this solo episode of Life's Checkmark, I reflect on my personal journey of growth, faith, and vision as we kick off a new year. Inspired by stories in Genesis and my own experience launching the Life's Check Mark project podcast, book, and community, I challenge you to look up, think big, and imagine your own stars in the sky. Everyone's path is unique, and our stories can reach and inspire so many beyond what we can see. I encourage you to reflect on your vision for 2026 and take those first steps, no matter where you are. Let's create something bigger than ourselves and remind each other: you're never alone in your journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your vision should be as big as the stars
• The power of small actions over time
• Importance of faith and persistence
• How sharing your journey inspires others
• You're truly not alone on this path

Connect with Jon Emery:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.emery.167

Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource

Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub

Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

Surviving Stroke to Inspiring Others: Stacie Jones's Journey of Hope and Purpose EP | 182

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Stacie N Jones, a resilient travel agency owner whose life took a major turn after a stroke in 2022. Stacie shares her inspiring story of pushing through the challenges, her journey from corporate life to living her childhood dream, and how she helps families make lasting memories through travel. We talk about the power of gratitude, forgiveness, and patience, even when life feels overwhelming. Stacie's story is a reminder that life can reset our direction and that it's never too late to pursue what makes us feel alive. Tune in for the motivation to keep going no matter what you're facing.

Key Takeaways:

• Finding purpose after adversity
• The value of family travel and memories
• Travel can be more affordable than you think
• Embracing patience and gratitude
• Staying connected despite challenges

Connect with Stacie N Jones:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abj.travelagency/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromdaydreamstodestinations

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

Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource

Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub

Life's Checkmark Podcast

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7