If you’re looking for fresh ways to get kids (and even yourself) excited about reading and climate action, this episode is for you. I talk with Laurel Colless, author and sustainability advocate, about how stories can help us make sense of big problems and turn “eco-anxiety” into hope and action. Laurel shares how her fantastical Peter Blue series gives kids relatable heroes and monsters—like the “anthrogs,” villains born from human pollution. We get into how books can fill the gaps mainstream education and governments might miss, especially when it comes to building kids’ agency and optimism around environmental issues. You’ll pick up tips on weaving eco-friendly celebration ideas into daily life and why the right story can spark teamwork and creativity in any group. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll also learn:

• Creative ways to make sustainability fun and accessible for all ages

• How books and stories can inspire real-world action (and not just fear)

• Simple, meaningful ways to add an “eco layer” to your own community events or projects

Connect with Laurel Colless

Website:https://www.laurelcolless.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Meet Laurel Colless and Anthrogs
02:16 Climate Change as a Story Villain
04:51 Laurel’s Journey to Writing for Kids
06:25 Book Recommendations for Climate Conversations
08:39 How Children Respond to Fantasy Eco Stories
12:10 Fostering Empathy and Creativity Through Reading
14:41 The Role of Books in Climate Education
17:00 Stories That Turn Eco Sadness Into Action
20:43 The Evolution of the Carbon Busters Club
23:58 How to Celebrate With an Eco Layer
25:26 Focusing on What We Can Do
27:06 Personal Benefits of Sustainable Choices
28:32 Lightning Round: Favorite Books and Authors
31:40 Surprising Reader Reactions and Tree Friends
32:46 Dream Carbon Busters Characters
33:30 The Hardest Anthrog to Defeat
34:11 Memoir Titles and Quick-Fire Answers
37:40 Laurel’s Thoughts on Climate in Nigeria
38:49 Where to Find Laurel’s Work
39:31 Wrapping Up and Next Steps

If you’ve ever wondered how personal stories can turn into compelling fantasy worlds, you’ll want to listen to this episode. Today, I’m joined by Danielle Orsino—a nurse, martial artist, and fantasy author—who shares how she went from telling stories at a hospital bedside to writing a nine-book series. We chat about the unexpected and sometimes bumpy transitions between careers and how Danielle’s martial arts experience brings real-life detail to the fight scenes in her novels.

You’ll pick up insights about what it’s actually like to publish and market your own books, including what surprised Danielle the most once she became an author. If you’re a creator or podcaster, you’ll learn:

• Creative ways your own life experiences can fuel more authentic storytelling.

• How to handle the vulnerability and challenges of showing up fully as yourself online or even on your book covers.

• What it really takes to build reader connections and why gratitude matters.

Tune in if you’re looking for inspiration to blend your many interests into something new—or just need a nudge to finally start that creative project.

Connect with Danielle Orsino

Website: https://www.dmorsino.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Meet Danielle Orsino
00:25 Danielle’s Book Recommendation
01:16 Hospital Storytelling Sparks Fantasy
02:49 Empathy and Healing Through Books
05:47 Life as Martial Artist, Nurse, Author
06:03 How Martial Arts Shapes Fight Scenes
07:13 Nursing and Realistic Writing
08:21 The Turning Point to Becoming an Author
11:32 What Surprised Danielle About Publishing
14:05 What Is Cosplay?
16:12 Reader Reactions to Author Cosplay
18:53 Receiving Reader Feedback
20:56 Danielle’s Gratitude for Her Readers
21:58 Hopes for Readers of Her Book
22:36 Where to Find Danielle’s Books
23:00 Wrapping Up the Conversation

If you’ve ever found it hard to talk about mental health, or worried you might say the “wrong thing,” this episode is for you. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and I sat down with Grace Ogren—clinical research specialist, writer, and lived experience advocate—to talk honestly about depression, suicidality, and how we can all play a part in supporting those who struggle. Grace shares why open conversations matter, how noticing small shifts in behavior could save a life, and how she uses creativity (especially fiction writing) to process pain and find hope. If you’re a creator or podcaster wanting to cover sensitive topics, you’ll pick up practical ways to make your shows more compassionate and helpful for listeners. You’ll learn: (1) The real difference between depression and sadness, and why this matters for ending stigma; (2) How to support someone in crisis—even if you don’t have “the right words”; and (3) Creative approaches that make tough subjects safer and more human. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that might shift how you see these important issues.

Connect with Grace Ogren

Website: https://www.graceogren.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Introducing Grace Ogren
00:47 Suicide Prevention Month: Personal & Professional Impact
03:13 Misunderstandings Around Depression & Suicidality
06:06 How to Support a Struggling Loved One
08:30 Addressing Stigma and Hidden Struggles
09:30 Spotting Warning Signs Beyond Words
11:32 Regaining Hope: Grace’s Personal Journey
13:47 Gaps in Mental Health Care
16:46 Creativity as a Healing Tool
18:41 Advice for Those in Darkness
20:34 Small Steps for Sustainable Recovery
22:32 Where to Find Grace Online
22:55 Wrapping Up & Listener Invitation

Looking to build deeper connections in your creative life and community? In this episode, I sit down with David Homan, a composer, author, and what many call a “connection orchestrator.” We chat about building meaningful relationships, why intentional community matters, and how books can open doors to new ideas and relationships—even across generations. David shares how small actions rooted in gratitude and generosity can have a real ripple effect, both personally and professionally.

You’ll walk away with practical ways to be more intentional about who you spend time with, and get simple exercises you can start right now to strengthen your own creative circle. Plus, we talk about the mindset shift from transactional networking to truly relational connections—something that can help any creator or podcaster looking to grow their audience and impact.

If you’re interested in building trust, creating authentic networks, or just want to find new ways to connect through books and story, this conversation is for you.

Connect with David Homan

Website: https://orchestratingconnection.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome & National Reading New Book Month
00:48 David’s Book That Changed His Perspective
02:17 Writing Orchestrating Connection
04:11 Music, Metaphors, and Community
06:10 The Power of Books for Connection
07:08 Stories That Shift Worldviews
08:54 Choosing Who You Surround Yourself With
09:49 When Book Characters Rub Off on You
10:46 Taking Gratitude Into Action
12:00 Moving from Transactions to Relationships
12:57 Building Your Own Relationship “Orchestra”
14:12 What Is a Connection Orchestrator?
16:02 Global Connections Through Sports
18:40 The One Lesson from David’s Book
21:02 Where to Find David Online
23:04 Thanks and Episode Wrap-Up

If you’ve ever wondered how music and storytelling weave together to create moments that really stick with us, this episode is for you. Today, I’m joined by Franky Corcoran, a multi-talented Canadian artist, to explore the creative spark found at the crossroads of theater, music, and everyday life. We dig into the lessons Franky learned from directing Tick, Tick... Boom! and how the journey of artists like Jonathan Larson can resonate with anyone chasing their own dream.

You’ll come away with advice on why quality matters more than quantity when you’re creating new work, and practical wisdom for artists who juggle multiple roles—actor, director, writer, or all at once. Plus, we talk about how performing music, especially on the piano, can build real connections with your audience in a way that acting sometimes can’t.

If you’re a podcaster or creator wanting to rekindle your creative energy or find ways to stay grounded while wearing many hats, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Connect with Franky Corcoran

Twitter: https://x.com/FrankyCorcoran

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

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Chapters

00:00 Kicking Off National Piano Month
00:37 Meet Franky Corcoran
02:07 How Music Shapes Creativity
03:23 Creating a One-Person Musical
04:27 Insights from Directing Tick, Tick...Boom!
08:10 Music’s Power to Connect Emotionally
10:12 Lessons From Building Corcoran Entertainment
12:31 Staying Grounded Across Creative Roles
14:17 Advice for Rediscovering Creativity
15:24 Lightning Round: Franky’s Favorites
16:50 Where to Find Franky’s Work
17:38 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Curious about how reading and creativity can open new doors at any age? In this episode, I talk with Nancy Napier about her journey from professor to fiction writer — and how it feels to start something brand new, even after decades in academia. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll walk away with thoughtful ways to keep learning and stay curious, plus why trying something completely different (even when it feels tough) can actually spark fresh ideas. Nancy also shares how her expertise in teaching creativity and strategy shaped her writing process — and reveals a simple framework for choosing your next creative project. We also touch on how drawing inspiration from real-life stories can lead to unexpected and powerful fiction. If you’re thinking about reinventing yourself or just looking for new ways to find creative joy, you’ll find plenty to reflect on in our conversation.

Connect with Nancy Napier

Website: https://nancynapier.com/

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

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome & Episode Introduction
00:59 Meet Nancy Napier
01:29 The Impact of Reading Widely
03:08 Books That Changed Her Perspective
04:41 From Academia to Fiction Writing
07:27 Lessons From Being a Beginner
10:14 How Innovation Influenced Her Writing
12:19 Mysteries, Problem-Solving, and Business
14:08 Why Real Stories Inspire Her Novels
16:19 Exploring Art Crime and Vietnamese Culture
17:47 On Reinventing Yourself Creatively
22:15 What’s Next for Nancy
22:51 Writing About Vietnam
23:18 Nancy’s Project-Choosing Framework
24:53 Where To Find Her Books and Connect
25:07 Farewell & Newsletter Reminder

Looking for ways to spark your love for reading or get inspired as a creator? This episode is for you. I sit down with Michael Strangeland, author of "Junk World: The Ballad of Leroy Brown," to chat about how reading and writing shape our worldview—especially during National Read a New Book Month. Michael opens up about the books that sparked his imagination growing up, and how a lifelong love of stories (plus a dose of stand-up comedy) has influenced his creative process.

If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll pick up practical tips on finding time for creative work even with a busy schedule, and how humor and storytelling can make your content more engaging. Plus, we talk about the changing landscape of publishing and what it means to bring your work directly to your audience. Tune in to discover how reading sci-fi (or any new genre) can help you question the world around you and maybe even inspire your next big idea.

Connect with Michael Strangeland

Website: https://www.goodreads.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/goodreads

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodreads-com/

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Chapters

00:00 Exploring National Read a New Book Month
01:10 The Role of Reading in Writing
02:13 Michael’s Childhood Sci-Fi Favorite
07:08 The Story Behind Junk World
10:33 Creating a Children’s Fairy Tale
12:01 Balancing Creativity With Daily Life
15:12 How Stand-Up Comedy Shapes Writing
18:17 Storytelling and Joke Delivery
21:52 How Science Fiction Changes Perception
25:45 Where to Find Michael’s Book
26:45 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on in the mind of a guide dog—or how we can tune in to what our animals are telling us—this episode is for you. I’m talking with Anne Angelo Webb, an animal communicator, about the deep, unseen connections between humans and dogs, especially service animals. You’ll hear about a unique perspective on animal communication beyond simple commands and learn how animals often sense what’s going on in our lives, sometimes even before we do. Two things you’ll walk away with: how guide dogs intuitively support their humans in ways training can’t always explain, and simple steps for starting to communicate with your own pets in a more meaningful way. Plus, Anne shares her thoughts on the misconceptions about the inner life of dogs, and how everyone, not just a select few, can reconnect with the ability to “talk” with animals. If you’re curious about trust, resilience, and love—especially from our canine friends—this episode will give you plenty to reflect on.

Connect with Anne Angelo Webb

Website: https://intuitivetouchanimalcare.com/

Instagram: https://intuitivetouchanimalcare.com/

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating National Guide Dog Month
00:49 Anne Angelo Webb Joins the Show
01:10 The Powerful Bond of Guide Dogs
02:07 What Is Animal Communication?
03:22 How Animals Tune Into Us
04:31 The Unique Intuition of Service Dogs
06:38 Animal Communication vs. Training
09:31 Trust, Intuition, and Everyday Connections
12:28 Stories: When Dogs "Just Know"
14:16 How Animals Share About Our Lives
15:00 If Guide Dogs Could Tell Us Stories
17:37 Common Myths About Dogs' Inner Lives
21:02 Ways to Mark National Guide Dog Month
22:01 Resources and Discounts From Anne
23:34 Quick-Fire Wisdom Round
27:00 Where to Find Anne Online
28:20 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered what draws us back to time-honored tales, you’ll love today’s episode. On this episode, I sit down with Joseph Bolton, author of Old Grandmother's Tree, as we celebrate National Read a New Book Month. Together, we talk about why picking up a folktale can be just as rewarding as reading the latest bestseller. You’ll hear how Joseph blends real family history and cultural memory with playful, magical storytelling. Curious about how to use old stories to spark new creativity? We touch on how anyone—especially writers and creators—can reimagine ancient wisdom for modern readers. Plus, Joseph shares how folktales can help you reconnect with your own roots and even inspire you to write your own stories from the depths of your own experiences. If you want to celebrate reading, understand what makes cultural stories universal, and get practical advice for your own storytelling journey, this one’s worth a listen.

Connect with Joseph Bolton

Website: https://oldgrandmotherstree.com/

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Chapters

00:00 Why Celebrate Reading New Books
01:39 The Universal Power of Folktales
02:55 Lessons Hidden in Ancient Stories
04:21 Inspiration Behind Old Grandmother’s Tree
05:50 Family, Resilience, and Community
07:31 Identity After Loss
09:00 The Gift of a Simple Eulogy
10:07 Weaving History With Folklore
11:30 Folktales: Wisdom From Ancestors
12:34 How Folktales Shape Our Roots
14:01 Old Stories for Modern Readers
16:08 Lightning Round With Joseph
18:25 Where to Find Joseph’s Work
19:17 Wrapping Up and How to Connect

If you’ve ever wondered why childhood obesity is more than just a diet or exercise issue, this episode is for you. I chat with Dr. Evan Nadler, a leading pediatric bariatric surgeon, to dig into what really drives childhood obesity and why it’s so often misunderstood. We talk about how genetics and even the environment before birth play a huge role, and why childhood obesity isn’t just “baby fat” that kids will simply outgrow.

You’ll learn why weight stigma and blame are so harmful for families, and how reframing obesity as a disease, not a choice, can lead to better care and understanding. If you’re a creator or podcaster, you’ll hear how breaking down misconceptions with simple science can clarify complex topics — and how to have compassionate conversations around stigmatized issues. Tune in for practical advice for parents, surprising facts from the science of obesity, and honest talk about what really works to support kids’ health.

Connect with Evan Nadler

Website: https://www.obesityexplained.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-nadler-adipomics/

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Chapters

00:00 Why Childhood Obesity Deserves Attention
01:10 Meet Dr. Evan Nadler
02:15 Reframing Obesity as a Disease
04:28 How Childhood and Adult Obesity Differ
07:01 Genetics and Risk Factors Before Birth
10:28 Prevention vs. Treatment for Obesity
11:29 What Actually Works: Treatments for Kids
13:59 Defining and Diagnosing Obesity
16:13 The Real Impact of Weight Stigma
18:58 Two Types of Advice for Parents
21:19 Finding the Right Support and Care
24:14 Dr. Nadler’s Final Thoughts and Resources
25:39 Where to Learn More and Signing Off