If you’ve ever struggled to get a good night’s sleep, this episode is for you. September is “Sleeptember,” and we’re exploring just how much quality sleep impacts everything—from your energy to your relationships and even your creativity. I sit down with transformational coach Raj Khedun, who shares the story behind his unique “3:3 Insomnia Hack”—a simple breath-based method that’s helping people around the world fall asleep fast, no medication required. You’ll hear Raj’s take on what’s really happening in our bodies and minds when we sleep and how ancient knowledge links to modern well-being.

Two things you’ll learn in this episode:

• How simple breathing techniques can quickly help you drift off, including what actually makes them effective.

• The hidden costs of sleep deprivation and why creators, founders, and anyone striving for their best should take sleep seriously.

Listen in for practical tips and some bigger ideas about how sleep shapes our days (and dreams).

Connect with Raj Khedun

Website: https://33insomniahack.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/33_insomniahack

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raj-khedun

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Sleeptember
00:54 Why Sleep Is Foundational
02:08 The Hidden Costs of Poor Sleep
04:09 Mysteries and Meaning of Sleep
06:37 The 3:3 Insomnia Hack Origin
08:29 Light, Electricity, and Magnetism in Breath
09:22 Who Can Use the 3:3 Method
10:00 Support and Testimonials for the Method
10:39 Scaling the Mission Globally
12:16 Influences: Philosophy, Yoga, and More
13:23 Dinosaurs, Planets, and Curiosity
15:21 Where to Learn the Full Method
16:37 Closing and Where to Find More

If you’re curious about how bold creativity and a little courage can shape a more joyful, meaningful life, this episode is speaking your language. I sit down with Kirsten Rudberg, whose creative journey spans writing, podcasting, screenwriting, and adventures like walking the Camino. Kirsten shares what it’s really like to step far outside your comfort zone — from racing across Oregon to solo journeys through Europe — and reveals the secret voices (and stubborn “nagging monkey”) that push her to “have a go,” even when she feels afraid.

Podcasters and creators will pick up practical ideas on:

• How to find courage to try something new, even (especially) when you think you’re not “that kind of person.”

• Ways to channel your own energy and quirks into your creative projects, so they feel more joyful and true to you.

Whether you’re looking for a nudge to start your next project or just want to hear some real talk about creative living, there’s plenty here to inspire your own “Have a Go” moment.

Connect with Kirsten Rudberg

Website: https://bytesizedblessings.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:41 Introducing Kirsten Rudberg
01:22 Kirsten Reflects on Her Journey
02:01 Facing New Challenges: Hood to Coast Race
03:41 Training, Running, and Surprising Herself
04:40 Becoming What You Do
05:26 Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
06:39 Preparing for the Camino Walk
08:11 Facing Obstacles and Unexpected Kindness
10:18 Camino vs. Team Races
12:02 Community Makes Challenges Easier
13:04 Did the Camino Spark Creative Ideas?
14:54 Creativity Through Contemplation
15:57 Lessons Learned From Doing Hard Things
16:22 Finding Courage for New Adventures
17:36 How Kirsten Gets Creative Work Done
18:05 Creative Projects: Fun and Delight
19:57 Growing Up Abroad & Community
22:14 Animated Crows and Social Observations
25:04 What the Crows Would Say About Us
25:59 Finding Most Joy in Podcasting
27:41 Where to Connect With Kirsten
28:08 Closing and Invitation to Listeners

Looking for inspiration to keep your creative spark alive—no matter your age or background? In this episode, I talk with award-winning novelist Joni Marie Iraci about her journey from nurse and caregiver to published author, and how fiction can reveal powerful truths about history, resilience, and empowerment. You’ll hear why stories like Joni’s Vatican Daughter have the power to challenge big institutions while offering an escape into the beauty of Italy.

A couple of things podcasters and creators will take away from our conversation: how persistence and a willingness to learn are crucial for new projects (even if you’re starting later in life), and ways fiction can provide both healing and perspective—essential tools for any creator. Plus, Joni opens up about her research process, the challenges of balancing dark topics with captivating settings, and the unique strengths of women’s stories. If you need a little reminder that it’s never too late to go after your creative goals, this one's for you.

Connect with Joni Marie Iraci

Website: https://www.jonimarieiraci.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/JoniIraci

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joni-marie-iraci

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:46 Joni’s Journey to Authorship
01:16 National Reading New Book Month
02:20 Reading, Writing, and Modern Challenges
03:42 Bookstores and Community
04:10 Inspiration for Vatican Daughter
05:38 Researching Papal Kidnappings
07:39 Returning to School Later in Life
08:29 Balancing Age, Courage, and Creativity
08:58 The Protagonist and Women’s Strength
10:06 Facing Stereotypes as an Older Student
11:11 Real-Life Papal Kidnapping Story
12:40 The Healing Power of Writing
13:19 From Nursing to Writing Parallels
14:12 Creating Suspense and Beauty
15:21 Perseverance Through Publishing Ups and Downs
16:09 Rapid-Fire: Books and Authors
17:24 Favorite Settings to Write
18:31 Research Challenges in Vatican History
19:08 Books to Read This Month
19:22 Proudest Moments and Book Titles
20:07 Where to Find Joni and Her Work
20:42 Thank You and Closing Remarks

Listening to today's episode, you'll get a gentle nudge to step outside your comfort zone and rediscover what brings you joy—even after a major setback. My guest, Irina Shehovsov, joins me for a down-to-earth chat on what it really takes to “have a go” at life again, with a special focus on creativity, continuous learning, and making joy a daily habit.

If you're a podcaster or creator, you'll find practical ideas you can try right away. First, Irina shares a simple mindset for battling imposter syndrome—perfect for anyone feeling scared to start something new (like launching a podcast or writing a book). Second, you'll learn why investing in hobbies and small moments of daily gratitude can fuel your growth and keep your creative spark alive long-term. There’s also an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to learn or try, no matter your age or background.

Tune in for stories, real-talk, and a few tips you might just want to keep by your side as you try, create, and grow.

Connect with Irina Shehovsov

Website: https://www.irinashehovsov.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/re.claimyourlife/#

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Today’s Observance
01:00 Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
03:04 The Value of Continuous Learning
04:17 Taking Bold Creative Steps
06:05 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
07:37 Small “Have a Go” Steps After Heartbreak
09:12 Gratitude and Moving Through Loss
09:43 Mindset Shifts from “The Gift Inside”
10:24 Joyful Hobbies as Daily Habits
12:32 Lessons from Writing Seven Books
14:05 Why Everyone’s Story Matters
15:20 A Glimpse Inside “The Gift Inside”
17:22 Where to Find Irina’s Work
18:58 Episode Wrap-Up and Newsletter Invite

If you’ve ever wondered how nonprofits really fund their work or how you can make a difference—no matter your budget—this episode’s for you! I sit down with Katherine Lacefield, a fundraising consultant for animal nonprofits, to look behind the curtain at what keeps meaningful causes running. Katherine shares how donations and grants actually work, and why diversifying your fundraising strategy is vital for small organizations.

As a listener, you’ll get fresh ideas on how you can support nonprofits in surprising ways, even if you can’t give big donations. You’ll also learn the difference between grants and donations, and how a nonprofit’s mission can shape which fundraising methods work best.

Creators and podcasters will pick up:

• How emotional connection impacts fundraising success and audience building.

• Why spreading awareness—online and offline—can be just as valuable as financial support.

• Practical tips for audience engagement that apply far beyond the nonprofit world.

Katherine’s insights are both inspiring and down-to-earth, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Connect with Katherine Lacefield

Website: https://www.justbecause.consulting/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/just.because.consulting/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-mac-donald/

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:26 Katherine’s Journey Into Fundraising
01:10 How Nonprofits Get Their Funding
01:40 Grants vs. Donations Explained
02:33 Why Diversify Fundraising Strategies
03:19 Emotional Connection and Donations
04:12 Guide Dogs: A Multifaceted Cause
05:11 Do Fundraising Strategies Vary?
06:12 Trends in Funding Different Causes
07:21 How Non-Donors Help Nonprofits
08:20 Small Donations That Make a Difference
09:08 Awareness, Volunteering, and Impact
10:02 Creative Ways to Volunteer Remotely
10:28 Katherine’s Contact Info
11:07 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you want to know how real conversations can make a difference during tough times, this episode is for you. I sat down with Paul Skidmore, the author and filmmaker behind “The Darkness Rolled Over Her,” to talk about National Suicide Prevention Month and why support and connection matter so much — for ourselves and those around us. You’ll hear how a simple question like “What are you thankful for?” can break down barriers, and how sharing your story can ease the heaviest burdens.

Paul also shares the creation of his “Five Coffees in a Book” discussion guide and book club — a surprisingly easy way to spark genuine conversations with friends, even if you feel awkward talking about mental health. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll take away ideas for using storytelling to tackle sensitive topics and the value of making space for hope alongside difficult stories. Listen in for small, meaningful actions you can take this month — and every day — to spread hope and build lasting friendships.

Connect with Paul Skidmore

Website: https://fivecoffeesandabook.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/_fivecoffees

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Chapters

00:00 Why National Suicide Prevention Month
01:08 The Danger of Isolation
02:14 Breaking Misconceptions About Suicide
04:06 Bringing Light With Storytelling
06:26 The Power of Conversation
07:38 Why Human Connection Matters
10:21 Approaching Those Difficult Questions
11:39 Being Present for Each Other
12:53 Five Coffees in a Book Explained
14:10 Fostering Real, Honest Conversations
14:38 Balancing Hope and Heavy Topics
16:18 Adapting the Book to Film
17:34 Making an Indie Film Happen
19:12 Where to Find the Book and Film
19:31 Lightning Round: Spreading Hope
20:57 What Are You Thankful For
21:22 Episode Wrap-Up and Resources

If you want to make new and deeper connections as a creator, this episode is for you. I sat down with Ahmard Vital to unpack what real friendship and mentorship look like—not just on the surface, but in the moments that matter most. You’ll hear us dig into the role that accountability and service play in authentic relationships, and why stepping out of your “digital bubble” leads to more fulfilling connections.

A couple of takeaways you won’t want to miss:

• The simple ways showing up for others (and letting others show up for you) creates opportunities for personal and creative growth.

• How volunteering and serving your community can expand your circle and support system, especially if you’re feeling isolated.

If you’re a podcaster, creator, or just someone who wants to surround themselves with genuine people, this conversation will give you practical, encouraging ideas to act on right away. Tune in to get inspired about making every season of your life richer with the right relationships.

Connect with Ahmard Vital

Website: https://ahmardvital.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/ahmardvital

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmard-vital/

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Observe Day & National Friendship Month
00:31 Introducing Ahmard Vital
01:03 A Mentorship That Shaped Ahmard
02:02 Sports as a Metaphor for Friendships
03:37 Mentorship as Extension of Friendship
05:04 What Makes Friendship Go Beyond Surface
07:15 Advice to Young People Seeking Mentors
08:18 How to Approach Potential Mentors
10:21 Navigating Life Transitions with Friends
13:59 A Friend Who Changed My Direction
15:35 How to Build Meaningful Friendships Today
17:40 Practical Ways to Connect and Serve
17:51 Lightning Round: Friendship Quickfire
18:41 Where to Find and Connect With Ahmard
19:37 Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up

If you want a fresh look at the aging journey—whether for yourself, your family, or your community—you’ll get a lot out of this episode. I sit down with Dr. Corinne Aumann, author, psychologist, and founder of Choice Care Navigators, to talk about why how we think and read about aging really shapes our experiences as we get older. Dr. Corinne shares how stories (and the language we use) can help us spot and challenge ageism, and why it’s time to rewrite the script on “older adulthood.” We touch on books, both new and classic, that reframe what aging can look like, and she points out how early planning (and honest conversations) can make growing older something to look forward to—not fear.

For podcasters or creators tuning in, here are two key takeaways:

• How sharing and seeking out more diverse, real-life aging stories can help challenge hidden biases in our content and communities

• The value of using creative formats—like humor or comics—in talking about serious aging issues to spark empathy and reach new audiences

Connect with Dr Corinne Aumann

Website:https://corinneauman.com/

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

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Corinne Aumann
00:29 Reframing the Aging Journey
01:09 National Reading New Book Month
01:28 Influential Books on Aging
02:42 Challenging Aging Stereotypes Through Stories
03:02 Realities Versus Stereotypes in Aging
04:30 Modern Aging Compared to the Past
05:11 Writing Teenagers and Its Impact
06:08 Rethinking Aging Stereotypes for Ourselves
07:04 Why Write a Book About Ageism
08:13 Bringing Awareness to Ageism
09:38 Planning Ahead for a Positive Older Adulthood
11:56 What Readers Gain From Teenagers
12:11 Lightning Round: Rapid-Fire Book Picks
13:31 Print, Ebook, or Audiobook?
13:47 Books That Inspired Teenagers
14:19 Book Recommendations for Turning 60
14:46 Favorite Chapter in Teenagers
15:35 Books That Make Us Smile
16:34 If Life Was a Book Title
17:35 Where to Find Dr. Corinne Aumann
18:11 Wrapping Up and Newsletter Invitation

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn on your mental health journey, this episode is for you. We’re marking National Suicide Prevention Month with Jayne Reynolds, a board certified holistic nutritionist who knows firsthand what it’s like to feel hopeless — and how small, intentional changes can start to restore hope. You’ll hear what actually shifted things for Jayne when therapy and medication alone weren’t enough, including how tweaking what you eat might just help your brain more than you think. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll discover: Why being open about personal struggles can help listeners feel less alone, and the importance of sharing diverse methods for finding hope — not just the standard resources. Plus, we unpack the often-overlooked role of nutrition and small daily choices in mental health. I hope this episode sparks new ideas for supporting your own well-being and for helping others, no matter what stage they’re at.

Connect with Jayne Reynolds

Website: https://sycamoreandsagenutrition.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thementalhealthnutritioncoach/#

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayne-reynolds-03698413/

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome & Why This Topic Matters
00:45 Meet Jayne Reynolds & Her Story
01:35 What National Suicide Prevention Month Means
02:53 Navigating Hopelessness
04:34 Nutrition’s Role in Mental Health
08:00 When Therapy Isn’t Enough
10:01 Blending Faith and Science
13:02 Jayne’s Turning Points
16:15 Your First Step Toward Hope
17:26 Lightning Round: Uplifting Habits & Food
20:46 One Thing to Remember
20:58 Where to Find Jayne
21:17 Closing & Newsletter Invitation

If you’ve ever wondered what NICU Awareness Month is really about, this episode is for you. I sit down with Dr. Angelo Valenti, an experienced psychologist and author, to gently explore how families cope with the emotional rollercoaster of having a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. You’ll hear honest reflections on the stress, isolation, and helplessness parents often feel, and why sharing those feelings can genuinely lighten the load.

For creators, this conversation brings two valuable perspectives: First, you’ll learn how simply reaching out—without offering advice—can make a world of difference for someone in crisis. Second, you’ll gain insight on using awareness months (like NICU Awareness Month) to open important conversations and build compassion in your community. Listen in if you want ideas for better supporting loved ones through tough times and practical ways to channel awareness into empathy.

Connect with Angelo Valenti

Website: https://angelovalenti.com/

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

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

If Observeday inspires you, subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your review and support help more people discover these stories.

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and NICU Awareness Month
00:36 Introducing Dr. Angelo Valenti
01:08 The Emotional Challenges of NICU
02:42 Why Open Sharing Matters
04:15 Coping With Stress and Anxiety
05:53 The Importance of Self-Care
06:42 Building Resilience for Families
08:29 How to Truly Support NICU Families
09:35 Staying Connected Across Distances
10:28 Moving From Guilt to Self-Compassion
13:45 Navigating Grief and Complex Emotions
14:22 Maintaining Relationships Under Stress
15:08 The Impact of Awareness Months
16:55 A Message of Hope for Parents
17:36 Closing Thoughts and Resources