My Simplified Life

In this episode, Michelle Glogovac and Anastasia Zadeik explore the intricacies of storytelling, the significance of life lessons, and the celebration of life through funerals. They delve into the importance of mental health, the power of presence, and the unique experiences that shape our understanding of literature. The discussion highlights the beauty of connection through shared stories and the impact of personal experiences on the reading journey.

What we’re talking about

• Everyone has a story worth sharing.

• Writing can be a powerful tool for mental health.

• Funerals should celebrate the life lived, not just the loss.

• Mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth.

• Life is about appreciating present moments.

• Books can evoke different interpretations based on personal experiences.

• Mental health struggles can lead to profound insights.

• Celebrating life can be colorful and joyful.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:44 The Journey of Writing and Storytelling

06:30 Life Lessons from Family and Mistakes

09:36 Celebrating Life Through Funerals and Obituaries

12:31 Reflections on Death and Legacy

15:24 Mental Health Journey and Seeking Help

21:02 Living in the Present Moment and Noticing Life

24:03 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

25:38 The Power of Connection in Difficult Times

28:38 Navigating the Book Publishing Landscape

31:30 The Reader's Experience: Personal Interpretations of Books

35:56 The Role of Neuroscience in Communication

41:15 Embracing Neurodiversity and Creativity

46:46 The Power of Connection

47:37 Sharing Your Story

LINKS MENTIONED

Anastasia Zadeik’s Website

www.anastasiazadeik.com

Anastasia Zadeik’s Instagram

instagram.com/anastasiazadeik/ 

Anastasia Zadeik’s Substack

anastasiazadeik.subatack.com

Anastasia Zadeik’s Facebook Facebook.com/anastasiazadeik

Anastasia Zadeik’s LinkedIn Linkedin.com/in/anastasia-zadeik-hipkins-5a825966/ The Other Side of Nothing by Anastasia Zadeik

https://a.co/d/8NuAuwW

In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac welcomes back Emma Grey, author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You. Emma shares insights into her writing journey, discussing the challenges and inspirations behind her latest novel. The conversation touches on character development, tackling complex themes, and the importance of persistence in the face of rejection.

What we’re talking about

• Embrace the Messy First Draft

• Persistence in Writing and Rejection

• Draw Inspiration from Personal Experiences

Embrace the Messy First Draft

Emma emphasizes the importance of racing to the end of a messy first draft. By focusing on getting the story down on paper without worrying about perfection, writers can refine and enhance their work later. This approach encourages creativity and helps overcome the fear of imperfection.

Persistence in Writing and Rejection

The episode highlights the significant role of persistence and resilience in a writer's journey. Emma discusses the concept of aiming for a hundred rejections, illustrating that facing rejection is a natural part of the creative process. By embracing rejection, writers can learn, grow, and ultimately succeed in their endeavors.

Draw Inspiration from Personal Experiences

Emma shares how her personal experiences and family influences have not just shaped her storytelling, but also made her narratives authentic and relatable. By weaving elements from her life and the lives of those around her into her novels, she creates stories that connect with readers on a deeper level, making them feel understood and part of a shared experience.

LINKS MENTIONED

​Emma Grey’s Website

www.emmagrey.com.au 

Pictures Of You by Emma Grey

https://tinyurl.com/ymw7j9jd

The Last Love Note by Emma Grey

https://tinyurl.com/53sfpkcb

Emma Grey’s Facebook

https://facebook.com/emmagreyauthor 

Emma Grey’s Instagram

https://instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

In this solo episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac reflects on the significance of Election Day 2024. Michelle shares her personal experiences and emotions and discusses the importance of staying positive and focused on the highs despite the challenges faced during the election period. She emphasizes the power of using our voices for good, advocating for kindness and unity, and maintaining hope for the future.

What we’re talking about

• The importance of reflecting on the highs and lows of the election period

• The power of standing up for the rights and freedoms of all individuals

• There is a need for kindness, unity, and recognition that everyone deserves better

Reflection on Highs and Lows

Michelle encourages listeners to reflect on both the positive and negative aspects of the election period. She highlights the importance of identifying the "roses" and "thorns" in our experiences and how focusing on the positive can help us overcome challenges and stay hopeful.

Standing Up for Rights and Freedoms

Throughout the episode, Michelle emphasizes the importance of advocating for the rights and freedoms of all people, regardless of their background or beliefs. She shares her commitment to standing up for others and encourages listeners to do the same, highlighting the impact of collective action and support.

Kindness and Unity

Michelle discusses the value of kindness and unity, stressing that we all deserve better and should strive to lift each other up. She reflects on the need to move away from judgment and hatred and instead focus on creating a more inclusive and supportive society where everyone feels valued and respected.

In this solo episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac explores the New Happy concept introduced in Stephanie Harrison's book. Michelle also addresses the unrealistic portrayals of success in the online world, urging listeners to recognize the hidden struggles behind seemingly perfect lives. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity, self-care, and the need to prioritize what truly matters in life.

What we’re talking about

• The concept of New Happy focuses on helping others to achieve personal happiness.

• Online portrayals of success may not always reflect reality.

• Authenticity and self-awareness are crucial in personal and professional growth.

The concept of New Happy focuses on helping others to achieve personal happiness

 Michelle discusses how happiness is evolving from a self-centered pursuit to one rooted in community and support. By helping others, we not only improve their lives but also enhance our own sense of fulfillment.

Online portrayals of success may not always reflect reality 

Michelle highlights how many public figures may not disclose the full extent of the help and resources they have. This can create unrealistic benchmarks for others. Recognizing this can alleviate the pressure to measure up to these often unattainable standards.

Authenticity and self-awareness are crucial in personal and professional growth

Emphasizing the importance of being genuine, Michelle encourages listeners to trust their instincts and be true to themselves. Doing so, they can better navigate their journey without being swayed by external perceptions or pressures.

LINKS MENTIONED

New Happy by Stephanie Harrison

https://tinyurl.com/5n867b6w 

In this solo episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research before voting in elections, particularly at the local level. She shares her personal process for evaluating candidates, highlighting the significance of understanding endorsements and having meaningful conversations about political choices. Michelle encourages listeners to be proactive, informed, and engaged in the democratic process, stressing the value of voting as a fundamental right and civic duty, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement.

What we’re talking about

• The importance of local elections

• Researching candidates and their endorsements

• Engaging in meaningful political conversations

The Importance of Local Elections

Michelle highlights that local elections, such as those for school boards and district councils, directly impact our communities. She emphasizes that while presidential elections often capture more attention, the decisions made at the local level can affect our daily lives more significantly. Understanding this, Michelle encourages listeners to focus on these elections and make informed choices.

Researching Candidates and Their Endorsements

Michelle outlines her method of researching candidates by examining their websites, social media presence, and endorsements. She stresses the importance of understanding who supports a candidate and what those endorsements signify. By doing this homework, voters can align their choices with their values and the best interests of their community, thereby feeling more informed and empowered.

Engaging in Meaningful Political Conversations

The episode emphasizes having genuine conversations about political choices. Michelle advocates for asking insightful questions and listening to others' perspectives to foster better understanding and reduce division. By engaging in these discussions, voters can become more informed and contribute to a more connected and informed society.

In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac is joined by author Raz Tal Schenirer to discuss her debut novel, Where Love Lies. Raz shares her journey from participating in beauty pageants to serving in the Israeli army and how these experiences shaped her writing. The conversation explores the themes of toxic relationships, personal growth, and the fine line between fiction and nonfiction in storytelling.

What we’re talking about

• The impact of personal experiences on storytelling

• Recognizing emotional toxicity in relationships

• The cultural and personal journey of moving back to Israel

The impact of personal experiences on storytelling 

Raz discusses how her own life experiences have influenced her writing. These real-life events have provided a rich backdrop for her novel, from her participation in the Miss Israel Beauty Pageant to her time in the Israeli army. She emphasizes the blend of fiction and nonfiction in her work, using her experiences to create authentic and engaging narratives.

Recognizing emotional toxicity in relationships 

A central theme in Raz's novel is the exploration of emotionally toxic relationships. She highlights the subtle signs of emotional abuse that are often overlooked and the importance of recognizing these signs to prevent harm. Raz's dedication to her daughters underscores her desire to educate young women about the dangers of such relationships.

The cultural and personal journey of moving back to Israel 

Raz shares the significant cultural transition she experienced when moving back to Israel from the United States at a young age. This move not only impacted her personal identity but also provided unique insights into the military culture and social dynamics in Israel. Her journey illustrates the challenges and growth of adapting to a new environment while holding onto one's roots.

LINKS MENTIONED

Smart Girl Knows

smartgirlknows.com

Raz Tal Schenirer’s Website raztalschenirer.com

Where Love Lies by Raz Tal Schenirer

https://amzn.to/4egCwRe

In this episode of "My Simplified Life," host Michelle Glogovac interviews Jonathan Conyers, a respiratory therapist, author, and co-founder of the Brooklyn Debate League. Jonathan shares his incredible life journey, from his challenging childhood in New York City to becoming a successful professional and author. He discusses his memoir, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here, which details his experiences growing up with parents battling addiction, overcoming numerous obstacles, and the importance of community and mentorship in his life.

What we’re talking about

• The power of community and mentorship

• Overcoming adversity through resilience

• The importance of sharing personal stories

The Power of Community and Mentorship

Jonathan emphasizes the crucial role that supportive individuals and mentors have played in his life. From his debate coach to various teachers and social workers, he highlights how these figures provided guidance and encouragement, helping him navigate challenging situations and achieve his goals.

Overcoming Adversity Through Resilience

Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares stories of the numerous obstacles he faced, including his family's struggles with addiction and homelessness. His resilience and determination to build a better life for himself and his family demonstrate the strength to overcome significant adversity and succeed.

The Importance of Sharing Personal Stories

Jonathan discusses the significance of sharing his story and the stories of others from similar backgrounds. By writing his memoir and speaking about his experiences, he aims to inspire others and bring attention to the challenges faced by many individuals who do not often have a platform to share their narratives.

LINKS MENTIONED

Jonathon Conyers’ Website

https://www.jonathanconyers.com/

Jonathan Conyers’ Instagram

http://instagram.com/iamjonconyers

I Wasn’t Supposed To Be Here by Jonathan Conyers

In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac talks with Katie Prentiss, a multi-hyphenate creative who shares her journey from being a photographer to becoming an actor and filmmaker. Katie discusses how she stumbled into acting, her experience making her first film, and the importance of telling stories that resonate. She also delves into the challenges of the film industry, particularly for women in midlife, and outlines her current project, a feature film titled Wake Up Maggie.

What we’re talking about

• Embrace the Journey

• Create Your Own Opportunities

• The Power of Storytelling

Embrace the Journey

Katie Prentiss' transition into acting and filmmaking was not a planned route but a journey of curiosity and passion. Her story underscores the importance of being open to new experiences and following one's interests, even if they initially seem unconventional or daunting. This should encourage you to embrace your own journey.

Create Your Own Opportunities

Faced with the limited roles available for women in midlife, Katie took the advice of her acting coach to heart and began creating her own films. This takeaway highlights the importance of taking initiative and making your own path in industries that may not readily offer opportunities.

The Power of Storytelling

Katie's films, particularly those based on personal experiences, demonstrate the impact of storytelling. Her work shows how sharing personal stories can connect with audiences deeply, raising awareness and empathy for often overlooked issues.

LINKS MENTIONED

Katie Prentiss’ Website

https://www.katieprentiss.com/ 

Wake Up Maggie Movie

https://www.katieprentiss.com/wake-up-maggie 

Katie Prentiss’ Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/katieprentiss/

In this solo episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac celebrates the fifth anniversary of her podcast. She reflects on her journey, the valuable lessons learned, and the incredible relationships built through podcasting. Michelle shares how the podcast has become a vital part of her life, both as a personal legacy and a means of connecting with others. She expresses gratitude for her listeners and looks forward to continuing this journey.

What we’re talking about

• Embracing Realness

• Building Meaningful Relationships

• Creating a Personal Legacy

Embracing Realness

Michelle discusses how podcasting has helped her embrace her true self. Over the years, she has grown comfortable using her voice and sharing her opinions genuinely. She highlights the importance of showing up as herself, both on and off the air, and how this genuine approach has been a significant factor in her personal growth.

Building Meaningful Relationships

Through the podcast, Michelle has forged new friendships and professional connections that she might not have encountered otherwise. By inviting guests to her show, she creates a platform for meaningful conversations, which has expanded her circle and enriched her life. She emphasizes the joy and fulfillment these relationships have brought her and how they have created a strong, supportive community.

Creating a Personal Legacy

Michelle views her podcast as a legacy for her children and future generations. She reflects on how the episodes capture her thoughts, beliefs, and experiences, giving her children a unique insight into her life. This realization has added depth to her work, knowing she is leaving behind something tangible for her family.

LINKS MENTIONED

Chapters To Chats: An Author’s Book Club for How To Get On Podcasts

https://bit.ly/CTCPodSocial 

​The MLG Collective®

https://themlgcollective.com

In this episode of My Simplified Life, Mary Jones, the author of the short story collection The Goodbye Process, shares her journey as a writer and her deep love for short stories. Mary discusses the inspiration behind her work, the challenges of writing short stories, and how her background in psychology has influenced her writing. She also delves into the themes of loss and humor in her stories, providing insight into her creative process.

What we’re talking about

• The Art of Writing Short Stories

• The Role of Psychology in Storytelling

• The Intersection of Humor and Loss

The Art of Writing Short Stories

Mary Jones sheds light on the unique challenges and rewards of writing short stories. She emphasizes that while the shorter format might seem easier, it requires precision and clarity, as every word must be purposeful to convey the full depth of a character's life or a pivotal moment.

The Role of Psychology in Storytelling

Mary discusses how her background in psychology has enriched her understanding of human nature, allowing her to create more nuanced and relatable characters. Her studies have provided her with insights into why people behave the way they do, which she weaves into her narratives.

The Intersection of Humor and Loss

Mary shares her perspective on the balance between humor and sadness in her stories. She believes humor can offer relief and comfort when dealing with serious subjects, and it's a natural part of processing difficult experiences. Her stories often reflect this balance, providing readers with moments of levity amidst the exploration of loss.

LINKS MENTIONED

Mary Jones’ Website

http://www.maryjoneswriter.com

Mary Jones’ Instagram https://instagram.com/maryjoneswriter