If you’re ready to rethink the way you approach reading, habits, and self-improvement, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Richard Trillion Mantey, an author who’s written over 150 books on health, mindset, and wealth, and he shares some personal stories about how reading and writing transformed his own life—starting with a tough wake-up call in a park and leading all the way to helping people around the world. You’ll hear why just reading a self-help book once isn’t enough, and Richard will share simple tips on turning what you read into habits that actually stick. If you’ve ever struggled to lose weight or wondered why money slips through your fingers, Richard breaks down how our subconscious beliefs get in the way—and how simple steps, like imagination and affirmations, can lead to real change. By the end, you’ll pick up practical advice for applying lessons from any book and walk away motivated to try new habits for yourself.

Two takeaways you’ll learn:

• Why repeating and applying lessons from books matters far more than just reading them once.

• How our early beliefs about health and money shape our lives, plus steps for gently shifting those beliefs.

Connect with Richard Mantey

Website: https://richardtmantey.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/RichardTMantey

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Episode Intro
00:50 Meet Richard Trillion Mantey
01:27 The Book That Changed Richard’s Life
04:13 Turning Weight Loss Into a Book
05:52 How Reading and Writing Fueled Change
07:22 Applying What You Read
08:28 The Four-Step Method Explained
10:03 Imagination, Affirmations, and Results
14:13 How Long Does Change Take?
16:03 Why Money Mindset Matters
18:57 Changing Subconscious Money Beliefs
21:06 Where to Start: Book Recommendations
22:41 How to Connect With Richard Mantey
23:27 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered how books can help us connect, heal, and discover more about ourselves, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Thomas Wilson, a storyteller and advocate who shares how stories supported him through tough times and inspired him to help others do the same. We talk about the real benefits of reading for mental health—whether you’re a fast reader, love comics and audiobooks, or find reading challenging. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll pick up ideas on making storytelling and books welcoming for neurodiverse communities, and learn practical ways to create inclusive, sensory-friendly spaces for all. We also explore how intentional, empathetic storytelling can make people feel seen and valued. Tune in for heartfelt conversation and simple tips on building a more supportive, story-rich world for yourself and your audience.

Connect with Thomas Wilson

Website: https://www.rhcreativeadvocacyandstorytelling.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wilson-

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Chapters

00:00 Opening and Introduction
00:59 Thomas's Storytelling Journey
01:25 Books and Reading Growing Up
02:45 The Impact of "Oh, the Places You'll Go"
05:26 Representation and Finding Connection
09:23 The Power of Intentional Storytelling
09:45 Reading and Writing for Healing
12:40 Encouraging Reading Without Shame
15:06 Sensory-Friendly Events & Accessibility
17:27 Mentoring Young Readers Today
19:10 Building Inclusive Reading Cultures
21:43 Book Recommendation and Reflections
22:59 Stories Thomas Looks Forward To
24:13 How to Connect With Thomas
25:20 Closing and Next Steps

On this episode, you’ll hear about how reading new books can do so much more than just fill your mind with information—they can spark real change in your life. I’m joined by David Richards, a former Marine Corps officer, executive coach, and bestselling author. We talk about what it really means to “embody” what you read, especially when it comes to spiritual or personal growth books, and why just knowing something isn’t the same as living it.

If you’re a podcaster, creator, or anyone looking to grow, you’ll walk away with practical ways to turn what you learn from books into action—not just knowledge. You’ll also hear about how incantations and daily practices can help you internalize new ideas and make lasting changes. Plus, David shares some surprising biblical insights that might have you seeing well-known stories in a new light.

If you’ve ever wondered why some people read and instantly change, while others read and stay the same, this episode is for you.

Connect with David Richards

Website: https://davidrichardsauthor.com/

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

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

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating National Reading New Book Month
01:10 David’s Current Book Inspiration
02:17 How Reading Shaped David’s Career
04:40 A Military Speed Reading Story
07:09 Learning From Others’ Writing Styles
08:06 King David’s Surprising Legacy
09:26 Psalms and Personal Prophecy
12:10 Awakening Your Divine Identity
14:44 Turning Words Into Real Life
18:06 Making Books Transformative
20:02 Embodying Knowledge, Not Just Learning
20:34 The Essential Leadership Chapter
21:31 What Authenticity Really Means
22:18 Book Recommendation to Get Unstuck
23:15 David’s Book Titles and Inspirations
24:38 Where to Find David’s Work
25:03 Wrapping Up and Next Steps

If you’ve ever wondered how books can help us slow down and treasure the little moments with our kids, this episode is for you. I chat with Gabrielle Martin, author of Hold My Hand Mama, about how children’s books make it easier to capture love, memory, and healing in our busy lives. You’ll hear Gabrielle’s honest story about going from a bedtime moment with her daughter to publishing a book—without any prior writing experience. We also talk about the practical realities of being a parent and creative, and what to do when inspiration hits but life gets in the way.

We dig into:

• How books help families pause, connect, and talk about life's everyday milestones

• Why the simplest stories and illustrations are often the ones that stick with us, even across generations

• Real advice for parents and creators who want to start a project but don’t know where to find the time

If you’re a creator, parent, or anyone who loves sharing stories, you’ll come away with ideas (and encouragement) for making creative dreams work alongside real life.

Connect with Gabrielle Martin

Website: https://www.holdmyhandmama.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction
00:48 The Meaning of Everyday Moments
02:24 How “Hold My Hand Mama” Was Born
04:19 Writing Her First Book
05:13 Why Write a Children’s Book?
06:09 Personal Stories and Book Illustrations
07:14 Building Parent-Child Connections
08:10 The Emotional Ending (No Spoilers)
08:53 Balancing Creativity and Parenthood
10:44 Advice: Don’t Give Up on Writing
11:08 Reader Stories That Made an Impact
12:57 When the Book Reaches All Ages
13:12 What She’d Tell Her Past Self
14:21 Audiobook and Graphic Audio Ideas
15:29 Book Recommendations for Parents
15:58 Wrapping Up the Main Conversation
16:35 The Lightning Round Begins
17:19 Favorite Bedtime Stories
18:13 Hardcover, Paperback, or Audiobook?
18:31 Childhood Books That Stayed With Her
18:51 Small Moments That Inspired Gabriel
20:12 Finishing the Sentence: Books Make Family Life…
22:04 Future Book Ideas and Multicultural Editions
22:41 Where to Find the Book and Connect
23:48 Outro and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever thought about making a big change or starting a new creative chapter, this episode is just for you. I sat down with Dan Clouser, an author, blogger, podcaster, and former youth sports nonprofit leader who traded a long, successful career to travel full-time, write, and connect with people across the country. You’ll find inspiration in how Dan listens to his “inner voice” and lets real-life adventures—planned or unexpected—shape his storytelling.

Listen in for thoughtful lessons on why it’s never too late to pivot, and tips for how everyday moments and genuine encounters can fuel your writing or creative projects. As a fellow creator, you’ll learn:

• How small encounters can spark big insights for your content.

• The value of slowing down to appreciate the journey, not just the destination.

If you’re ready to reimagine what your next chapter could look like or to find meaning in the little things, hit play on this episode!

Connect with Dan Clouser

Website: https://journeyofmymothersson.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/DanClouser5

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-clouser-

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Observe Day
00:22 Meet Dan Clouser, Author & Traveler
01:02 The Book That Changed Dan’s Life
01:17 From Sports Nonprofit to Full-Time Travel
02:28 The Power of Slowing Down
05:18 How Book Themes Are Chosen
07:08 “Journey of My Mother’s Son” Series
08:11 Which Book to Start With
09:05 Different Books for Different Readers
10:52 The Little Things Philosophy
12:32 Road Life & Storytelling
13:43 Lessons from True Adventure Stories
14:50 It’s Never Too Late to Pivot
16:21 Facing Unexpected Detours
16:41 New Project: “A Good Boy’s Journey”
18:11 Creativity and Change
18:23 A Reading Challenge for Listeners
19:58 Where to Find Dan’s Books
20:52 Episode Wrap and Farewell

If you’re a creator, parent, or educator looking to help kids grow into thoughtful, resilient adults, you’ll find plenty to take away from this episode. I talk with Barbara Ann Mojica—a historian, retired educator, parent, and creator of the Little Miss History book series—about why teaching kids their own history matters so much, especially during tough times like National Suicide Prevention Month. We get into how learning about the struggles and setbacks of real people can inspire hope and build self-esteem in kids today. You’ll hear how storytelling (and even simple family stories) can help young people process challenges, ask for help, and see their own lives as meaningful. Barbara also shares practical tips for making history engaging so kids become curious, critical thinkers—not just memorisers. Tune in to discover:
• How understanding history can help build resilience in today’s youth
• Why storytelling remains one of the best tools to spark hope and connection
If you want to raise, teach, or support kids in a thoughtful way, this episode is packed with down-to-earth ideas.

Connect with Barbara Ann Mojica

Website:https://www.littlemisshistory.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/bamauthor

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

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Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Episode Introduction
00:49 Meet Barbara Ann Mojica
01:23 Barbara’s Journey in Education
03:20 Insights from Special Education
04:37 Issues in Today’s Education System
07:29 National Suicide Prevention Month & History
12:08 Hope Through Learning History
15:19 Building Resilience and Identity Early
17:21 Historical Figures as Examples
19:57 Overcoming Struggle: Lessons from Lincoln and Others
24:00 The Power of Storytelling
27:31 Connecting History to Today’s Issues
30:11 Where to Find Barbara and Her Books
31:19 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or confused by the way health care benefits work—especially if you run a business or care about how your workplace covers employees—today’s episode is for you. I sit down with Donovan Pyle, someone who’s gone from being a health insurance insider to a whistleblower and author. Instead of just talking in complicated terms, Donovan breaks down how the system really works, where the money goes, and why so much is wasted each year.

Here’s what you’ll walk away with:

• Clear understanding of the “broker blind spot”—why many businesses aren’t getting unbiased advice about their health plans.

• A surprising look at the history of health insurance in the U.S., and how it’s shaped what we’re dealing with today.

• Practical first steps you can use right now, whether you’re a business leader or just want to ask better questions about your own health coverage.

If you’re curious about making smarter health care decisions or just want a new perspective during National Reading New Book Month, tune in!

Connect with Donovan Pyle

Website:https://donovanpyle.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Days That Matter
00:23 Donovan Pyle’s Unpredictable Journey
01:31 The Broker Blind Spot Explained
02:51 What Readers Can Expect
04:43 Who the Book Is For
06:39 The Writing Process Challenges
08:17 Industry Pushback and Whistleblowing
09:11 Why Change Is Needed in Healthcare
10:40 Surprising Truth: Origins of Health Insurance
13:54 Hospitals and Insurers: Partners, Not Rivals
15:57 A Chapter Worth Revisiting
16:39 Author Effect and Market Response
17:38 Immediate Actions for Employers
18:16 How to Get the Free Executive Summary
18:40 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered how reading a new book can shift your outlook or what really happens behind the scenes in publishing, today’s episode is for you. I’m joined by Laura Stanfill, publisher, novelist, and founder of Forest Avenue Press, as we celebrate National Reading New Book Month. Laura and I dive into why taking a chance on a new book—or a new author—can not only spark joy but also build empathy and change how you see the world.

We also talk about the fascinating path a book takes from a writer’s idea to your local bookstore shelf, and Laura shares honestly about the role of indie presses and bookstores in bringing diverse voices to readers. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll pick up practical tips on how to find your next favorite book without feeling overwhelmed, plus how writers can build resilience and community as they create. Tune in to get inspired to read—and maybe even write—that next new book.

Connect with Laura Stanfill

Website: https://www.forestavenuepress.com/

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

Twitter: https://x.com/forestavepress

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating National Reading Month
01:06 Why Reading New Books Matters
01:41 Surprises When Trying New Authors
02:34 A Book That Changed Laura’s Life
03:44 Journey From Idea to Bookshelf
06:41 Small Presses and Diverse Stories
08:13 The Role of Indie Bookstores
09:34 Encouraging Writers and Readers
12:22 Advice for Overwhelmed Readers
14:01 When Reading Feels Like Work
15:25 Choosing What to Read Next
16:46 Finding Joy in Difficult Books
17:50 Lightning Round — Book Favorites
19:12 Where to Find Laura Stanfill
19:54 Episode Wrap-Up and Newsletter Plug

If you’ve ever wondered how to bring real human emotion into your fantasy writing—or you’re looking for fresh ideas on how to connect with your readers—this episode is for you. I sit down with J.F. Monroe, author of the Legacy of the Four trilogy, to talk about flipping familiar fantasy tropes, why flawed heroes leave a lasting impression, and how a deep love for movies influences her storytelling style. You’ll hear some candid stories about self-doubt, the surprises and challenges of indie publishing, and the unexpected realities of book marketing. 

Listeners who are fellow writers or podcasters will walk away with two big takeaways: practical ways to create more relatable characters even in wildly imaginative settings, and mindful advice for overcoming creative doubt—especially at those vulnerable moments of sharing your work with the world. We also have some thoughtful book recommendations from J.F. that’ll inspire your next read. Tune in to remind yourself why stories matter—and how you can tell yours, too.

Connect with J.F Monroe

Website: https://www.jfmonroebookshelf.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jf.monroe/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/j-f-monroe/

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating National Reading New Book Month
00:42 Inspiration Behind Legacy of the Four
02:42 Exploring Genres Before Publishing
03:39 Bringing Human Connection Into Fantasy
05:09 Creating Morally Complex Characters
07:26 Writing Relatable and Messy Reunions
09:13 Cinematic Storytelling Influences
11:47 Christopher Nolan’s Impact and Favorites
12:47 Biggest Writing Challenges and Marketing
15:46 Navigating Self-Doubt in Creativity
17:44 Book Recommendations Outside Fantasy
19:36 What J.F. Hopes Readers Take Away
20:36 Where to Find J.F. Monroe
21:18 Lightning Round: Favorites and Advice
24:08 The Impact of Reader Feedback
25:00 Why Stories Matter

If you’re looking to bring fresh energy and purpose to your creative work or business, this episode is for you. I sat down with Paul Pape, author of The Creative Player's Handbook to Business, to explore how turning business into a game can actually make planning and marketing feel more like an exciting quest than a chore. Paul shares why separating yourself from your “business character” helps you see your strengths and blind spots more objectively, and how storytelling can make even the most serious topics stick.

You’ll walk away with practical tips on how to approach business (or any serious subject) with more fun and creativity, and guidance on banishing the “starving artist” myth once and for all. If you’re a podcaster or creator, you’ll learn:

• How to use character creation, RPG-style, as a tool for business planning and personal growth.

• Why reading (and writing) unique, story-driven books can unlock new ideas and confidence in your work.

Connect with Paul Pape

Website: https://www.gamifybusiness.com/

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

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Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Reading New Book Month
00:42 Introducing Paul Pape and Creative Gamification
01:23 Turning Business Into a Game
03:32 Why Write a Book for Creatives?
05:37 How Books Take You on Adventures
07:23 Books vs. Doomscrolling and Social Media
10:20 Reading Aloud, Voices, and Imagination
10:56 Character Creation for Business Planning
11:45 Identifying Strengths and Finding Your Party
14:08 Fighting the Starving Artist Myth
15:36 How Creatives Should Value Their Work
17:45 Picking the Right Book for Inspiration
19:04 The Takeaway From Paul’s Handbook
20:17 Lightning Round: Books & Creativity
23:58 More From Paul: Current and Upcoming Books
25:18 Inspiration for Paul’s Fiction Book
28:28 Where to Find Paul and His Work
29:43 Wrap Up and Newsletter Invite