In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I sat down with Ryan Reichert, a retired Army lieutenant colonel, author, and speaker whose journey has taken him from small-town America to the frontlines of combat—and, ultimately, to a place of hope and healing. Ryan shares his favorite grounding quote from Isaiah 40:31: “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Through raw stories about battling addiction, the lifelong effects of PTSD, and rebuilding after dark seasons, Ryan shows us how this scripture isn’t just a comfort, but a battle-tested formula for resilience. Our conversation unpacks what real trust looks like—not just as an abstract concept, but as a daily act of surrender and perseverance, even when life doesn’t make sense. Listeners seeking honest wisdom and encouragement will find both practical tools and fresh inspiration to keep pressing forward, fail forward, and trust deeper—no matter where you are on your journey.

Connect with Ryan Reichert

Website:https://www.protectorinstinct.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ArmyRT1978/

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 New Strength Through Faith
00:32 Introduction To Ryan Reichert
01:16 Sharing A Life-Shaping Quote
01:46 Stories Behind The Favorite Quote
02:36 Overcoming Addiction And PTSD
04:22 Embracing Trust And Surrender
06:18 Generosity And Seeing The Good
07:26 Coping With Loss And Change
07:54 Making Trust Concrete
10:23 Trusting Beyond Outcomes
11:29 Hope Rising From Tragedy
13:30 Trusting Beyond Human Logic
15:56 The Long Way Is The Shortcut
16:40 The Value Of Putting In The Work
18:03 Don’t Skip The Strength Step
19:13 Failing Forward In Life And Business
20:17 Only Fail When You Stop
21:26 The Power Of Perseverance
22:21 Where To Find Ryan Online
23:29 Closing And Final Wisdom

This episode of Relatable Wisdom features the incredible Kelly K. Walker, a speaker and coach specializing in helping ADHD entrepreneurs turn their big, busy ideas into powerful messages. I loved diving into Kelly’s favorite quote: “Nobody cares about your story until it changes their story.” We explored the real meaning behind being authentic—sharing not just our highlights but also our struggles, even when it feels uncomfortable. Kelly unpacks why documenting your struggles can help others feel seen and less alone, and she shares practical advice on how to actually keep track of your stories, inspired by the “Homework for Life” method. We dig into how to connect with audiences by being honest, relatable, and intentional—whether you’re telling stories to inspire, teach, or just make someone laugh. Listeners will walk away with new tools and a lot of encouragement to embrace their own messy, meaningful journeys in life and business.

Connect with Kelly Kaye Walker

Website: https://www.kellykayewalker.com/

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Documenting The Struggle
00:20 Welcome And Guest Introduction
00:47 Kelly’s Story And Quote
01:33 Unpacking The Meaning Of Authenticity
02:25 Making Stories Matter To Others
03:36 Honesty And The Real Path
05:22 Social Media Vs. Real Life
06:42 More On Storytelling Techniques
07:33 Tips For Documenting Your Stories
08:27 “Homework For Life” Story File
09:41 Collecting And Remembering Stories
10:16 Becoming Mindful Through Story Collection
11:00 Choosing What To Pay Attention To
13:06 Connecting Stories To Your Audience
14:07 Choosing Stories For Impact
15:53 The Pitfalls Of Speaking For Ego
16:21 Knowing Your Audience’s Needs
17:35 Building Connection Through Caring
18:35 Where To Find Kelly’s Workbook
19:32 Closing And Reflections

In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I sit down with Zulma Williams—a licensed clinical social worker, immigrant from Argentina, and cancer survivor—who shares the powerful mantra she crafted for herself: “I had cancer. Cancer didn’t have me.” Zulma’s journey is truly inspiring. Diagnosed with breast cancer just weeks after earning her bachelor’s degree, she faced an uncertain future. Yet, Zulma’s refusal to let her diagnosis define her led her to pursue her master’s at age 50 and eventually build her own thriving therapy practice. Throughout our conversation, Zulma dives into the deeper meaning behind her quote, encouraging us all to see life’s challenges as parts of our stories, not the whole book. She reminds us that taking risks and pursuing our dreams—regardless of age, setbacks, or circumstances—can lead to transformation and meaning. Listeners will find actionable wisdom on embracing courage, making choices, and breaking through limiting beliefs. Zulma’s story is a beautiful call to own your power and rewrite your narrative, no matter where you start.

Connect with Zulma Williams

Website: https://dragonflytherapyservices.com/

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

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Cancer and Career Crossroads
00:56 Welcome and Guest Introduction
01:28 Zulma’s Background in Therapy
01:43 Her Favorite Quote and Its Origins
02:45 Exploring the Mantra’s Meaning
03:09 Cancer’s Impact on Her Dream
04:12 Navigating Recovery and Determination
06:07 Focusing on Strengths, Not Lacks
07:10 Zulma’s Story of Immigration
08:01 Taking Risks and Avoiding Regrets
08:52 Overcoming Age and Language Barriers
10:16 The Power of Living in the Now
11:35 Action Over Overthinking
12:38 Non-Choices Are Choices Too
13:44 Taking Control of Your Future
14:32 Building a New Path in Parallel
16:11 The Value of Pursuing Dreams
17:52 Learning from Setbacks
18:16 The Brain’s Fear of the Unknown
19:03 Unhappiness vs. the Unknown
20:29 The Reality of Starting Small
22:18 Comparing Yourself to the Right Example
22:48 Growth Takes Time and Consistency
24:12 Zulma’s Background in Accounting
25:45 Where to Find Zulma Online
26:01 Closing and Final Reflections

What does it really mean to face your fears and live courageously? In this deeply personal episode, I’m joined by Dana Pemberton, co-founder of The Digital Dojo, as he shares a quote that has quietly but powerfully shaped his life: “Courage is the most important virtue because without it, no other virtue can be practiced consistently,” by Dr. Maya Angelou. Dana opens up about growing up with a military father and a hardworking mother from the Caribbean, and how their lessons on courage and duty shaped his views on vulnerability, authenticity, and the value of hard work. We dig into the real story behind facing fears—not by erasing them, but by honoring the values and love that push us forward. Dana’s journey is a reminder to own your unique contribution, take action despite fear, and find meaning in every challenge. Whether you’re starting a podcast, chasing a dream, or just overcoming daily doubts, this episode will inspire you to walk toward what matters most with courage.

Connect with Dana Pemberton

Website: https://www.thedigitaldojo.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.digital.dojo/

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Facing Fear and Purpose
01:13 Welcome and Guest Introduction
02:07 Dana’s Favorite Quote
02:33 The Power of Courage and Vulnerability
03:45 Overcoming Fear and Excuses
05:25 Fear of Failure and Shame
06:25 Courage as the Tip of the Spear
07:25 Courage, War, and Perspective
08:57 Shifting How We See Fear
10:28 Parenting Lessons on Resilience
11:40 Redefining Courage and Duty
13:00 Military Training and Managing Fear
14:41 Facing Duty Through Fear
16:17 Love, Duty, and Overcoming Obstacles
17:27 Two Opposing Thoughts: Fear vs. Desire
18:30 Obstacles as Signs of Commitment
20:22 Failing Forward and Learning
21:05 The Pitfalls of “I’ll Try”
23:22 Showing Up for Yourself and Others
24:03 Family Stories of Hard Work
26:46 Choosing Action Over Complaining
27:55 Resources, Opportunity, and Action
28:08 Fear of Hard Work and Upbringing
29:20 Courage and Environmental Influence
30:31 Shining Your Light for Others
31:26 Everyday Acts of Courage
32:37 Where to Find Dana Online

In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I sit down with celebrated storyteller Alan Katz, who brings us the profound mantra: “The truth will set you free.” Alan shares a deeply personal journey—from his successes in film and TV to the shadow of a 45-year secret that nearly cost him everything. His raw honesty about battling depression, confronting past trauma, and finding purpose after hitting rock bottom offers powerful lessons in vulnerability, healing, and transformation. Alan opens up about how embracing his truth not only liberated him but also unlocked his ability to connect and create as a storyteller. We explore how telling your own story with honesty is the first step toward empowerment and meaningful human connection. Whether you’re struggling to find your voice or simply seeking insight on life’s turning points, Alan’s journey and wisdom will inspire you to reconsider what it means to truly live—and speak—your truth.

Connect with Alan Katz

Website:https://costardandtouchstone.com/

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Alan’s Favorite Quote
01:00 Success, Depression, and Secrets
03:36 Seeking Help and Breakthrough
04:35 Revealing a Life-Changing Truth
05:36 Storytelling and Personal Freedom
06:25 Writers vs. Storytellers
07:38 Purpose, Connection, and New Relationships
08:27 Dads From the Crypt and Podcasting
09:27 The Making of Bordello of Blood
10:05 TV Industry Realities
11:33 From TV to Podcasts
12:23 A DNA Horror Story Explained
13:45 The Donor Conceived Community
14:24 The Power of Speaking Truth
15:19 Inner and Outer Alignment
16:56 Living a Purposeful Life
17:12 Why It Took 45 Years
18:18 The Importance of Acting Now
19:29 Truth-Telling and Human Connection
20:29 Wisdom to End the Episode
20:58 The Power of Being Heard
21:51 Where to Find Alan’s Work
22:29 Closing and Farewell

What does it really mean to “get things done” and build a life that truly matters? In this episode, I’m joined by Helene Gidley, a seasoned project manager and author, whose mantra “You can do hard things” offers a powerful reminder that we are all capable of facing and overcoming life’s challenges. Helene opens up about a deeply personal turning point—the loss of her father at a young age—and how grief sparked her determination to pursue work and a life she truly wanted, not just what was handed to her. We talk about finding meaning in difficult moments and how to focus on what’s important. Helene shares practical tips—like breaking projects into small, manageable pieces, using sticky notes, and celebrating small wins—to help anyone move from overwhelm to accomplishment. Whether you’re struggling with procrastination or just want to feel more confident and intentional in your daily life, this conversation offers relatable wisdom and actionable strategies to help you choose the right “boat” and steer it where you want to go.

Connect with Helene Gidley

Website: https://www.a2agile.com/agileliving

Twitter: https://x.com/hsgidley

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

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 The Power Of Accomplishing What Matters
00:40 Welcome To Relatable Wisdom
01:09 Introducing Helene Gidley
01:56 Sharing Her Favorite Mantra
03:09 A Life-Changing Family Loss
06:01 Choosing A Different Path
08:17 Finding Silver Linings In Grief
10:40 Lessons On Work And Life Focus
11:34 Building Confidence With Small Wins
12:26 Picking The Right Life “Boat”
14:07 How To Actually Get Things Done
15:56 Using Sticky Notes For Focus
18:14 Managing Distractions And Staying On Track
20:31 Making Time For What Matters
21:04 What To Do When You Don’t Know Where To Start
22:41 Studio Work Vs. Real Progress
23:13 Prioritizing For Real Results
24:41 Where To Find Helene And Her Book
25:34 Thanks And Sign Off

On this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I sat down with Greg Vigdor, a passionate changemaker in America’s healthcare system, who offered a deeply personal and actionable mantra: “Live your life with purpose for others.” Greg’s story is both inspiring and practical—he shares how this guiding principle, which he dubs the “Theory of Irv,” helped him resist the typical lures of fame and fortune, even as his peers gave in. Through heartfelt anecdotes from both his own journey and his fictional character Irv Tinsley, Greg shows how asking “Am I doing good for others?” can be a powerful compass for making life’s biggest decisions. Whether you’re searching for work with meaning or looking to avoid the trap of living for others’ opinions, Greg’s wisdom is all about honest self-reflection and finding true fulfillment in service to humanity. If you’re hungry for grounded advice on building a life—and legacy—that helps more than just yourself, this episode delivers timeless insights and a practical roadmap.

Connect with Greg Vigdor

Website: https://www.washhealthfoundation.org/book-the-theory-of-irv

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-vigdor

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Greg’s Search for Purpose
00:31 Welcome and Guest Introduction
01:00 The Theory of Irv Explained
02:14 Living the Mantra in Real Life
03:32 Personal Stories and Challenges
04:39 Choosing Values Over Temptation
06:21 Writing and the Birth of Irv
07:17 Book Title Inspiration
07:47 Publishing the Irv Series
08:19 Lessons from Fictional Irv
10:26 Revisiting the Quote’s Meaning
11:15 Defining “Betterment of Others”
12:39 Service vs. Seeking Approval
14:13 Honest Self-Assessment
15:13 Practical Challenges and Examples
16:27 Personal Integrity and Decisions
17:19 The Pitfalls of Self-Deception
18:27 The Complexity of “Doing Good”
19:14 Where to Find Greg’s Work
19:47 Closing and Final Reflections

Ever wondered how true change really happens? In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I’m joined by Coach Jonathan Mclernon, whose powerful mantra, “Compassionate awareness is the foundation of transformational change,” sets the stage for an honest, deeply human exploration. Jonathan shares his journey from trauma and self-loathing—after surviving a violent attack—to rebuilding his identity and helping others as a health coach. We dig into how he moved away from harsh self-judgment and punishment, and discovered that real, lasting transformation begins with noticing what’s really happening within us—without judgment, but with kindness. Through Jonathan’s personal stories and practical reframing (even breaking his quote down into kid-friendly language!), you’ll learn why compassion isn’t weakness—it’s the necessary first step to growth. If you’ve struggled with habits or old narratives about who you are, you’ll find wisdom, hope, and real-life tools in this episode. I had so many “aha!” moments, and I know you will too.

Connect with Jonathan Mclernon

Website: https://freedomnutritioncoach.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/FNjonmclernon

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Jonathan’s Struggle With Self-Judgment
00:53 Introduction To Compassionate Awareness
01:26 Breaking Down The Quote
04:15 Jonathan’s Trauma And Binge Eating
07:35 The Difference Between Compassion, Enabling, And Judgment
10:13 What Transformation Really Means
15:21 Making The Quote Kid-Friendly
17:00 Live Prompting With AI
19:24 Choosing The Best Version For All Ages
20:51 Key Takeaways And Closing Wisdom
22:05 Where To Find Jonathan

In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I sit down with songwriter and storyteller Reeya Banerjee, whose heartfelt artistry offers solace and inspiration through both words and music. Reeya shares her favorite quote, attributed to Bruce Springsteen: “The best music is essentially there to provide you something to face the world with.” We dive into how this mantra became a lifeline for her while navigating a difficult period and how music evolved from a personal means of survival to a way of connecting with, and uplifting, others. Reeya opens up about her relationship with memory, nostalgia, and the magic of storytelling, weaving in her Indian-American experience and her love for Bollywood music. We even get a spontaneous private performance of her newest single, “For the First Time”! If you’re seeking creative courage, emotional healing, or a reminder of music’s unique power to unite and heal, this episode will leave you feeling seen and inspired.

Connect with Reeya Banerjee

Website: https://www.reeyabanerjee.com/

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

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:31 Reeya’s Musical Journey
00:45 Bruce Springsteen’s Inspiring Quote
01:25 The Quote’s Personal Significance
02:39 Healing Through Music and Community
03:51 Paying Wisdom Forward Through Art
04:09 What Makes Music Special
05:07 The Power of Art and Representation
06:27 Bollywood, Identity, and Belonging
07:34 Good and Bad in Every Movie Industry
09:22 Indian Film Music and Its Impact
09:34 The Emotional Depth of Movie Scores
10:39 Studying Film and Music’s Interplay
12:42 Music’s Philosophical Importance
13:40 Shakespeare on Music and Humanity
14:13 Can Anyone Truly Hate Music?
15:35 Emotional Ties and Musical Memories
17:29 Music, Grief, and Healing
19:11 Reeya’s Songwriting on Memory
20:35 A Spontaneous Song Performance
22:36 Where to Hear the Full Song
23:26 Writing in Hindi and Bilingual Artistry
25:03 Creative Challenges and Future Plans
26:12 Where to Find Reeya Online
26:54 Closing and Listener Takeaways

In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the journey of James Julian Rojas Taylor—a former Marine turned actor who champions the cause of mental and emotional literacy. James shared the powerful mantra, “Burn the fat off your soul,” borrowed from the film Jarhead, as a guiding force in his life and message. Together, we explored what it truly means to develop our inner world, using tools that actors hone on stage to understand their minds and emotions—and how we can apply these same techniques to real life. James unpacked the method of self-questions actors use to get into character, turning them into practical wisdom for everyday self-awareness, decision making, and growth. Whether you’re seeking more presence, intention, or resilience, James offers a system that goes far beyond the stage and into lasting personal transformation. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the day-to-day or wished you had a method to understand yourself better, this conversation is a must-listen.

Connect with James Rojas Taylor

Website: https://www.tbcenterprises.com/

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

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-rojas-taylor-

If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.

Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join

If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq

Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom

Chapters

00:00 The Power Of Emotional Literacy
00:52 Welcome And Guest Introduction
01:17 Favorite Quote: Burn The Fat Off Your Soul
02:13 Meaning Behind The Mantra
03:16 Exercising The Mind And Spirit
04:07 Foundations Of Mental Literacy
05:46 Stanislavski System And Its Life Lessons
07:31 Seven Questions For Daily Awareness
09:14 Real-Life Application Of Acting Tools
11:17 Why Reflection Is So Rare
12:20 Breaking Free From Manipulation
13:22 Stage Fright Vs. Insecurity
14:46 Why Schools Don’t Teach This
15:53 Changing Roles And Self-Identity
16:28 The Actor’s Toolkit For Everyone
17:54 Reading Behavior And The It Factor
19:07 Five Learnable Skills For Presence
20:17 James’s Personal Journey
21:36 Suits, Bubbles, And Adaptation
22:33 Advocating For Emotional Education
23:32 Where To Find More Resources
24:34 Closing Thanks And Reflections