Sagely Speaking

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Sarah Murphy, a first-generation bison rancher from Durango, Colorado, who transitioned from a corporate marketing career to ranching in 2016 with just 15 bison. In their conversation, Murphy discusses the challenges and rewards of her new lifestyle, emphasizing the vital role community support plays in her journey. She highlights the ecological benefits of bison in regenerative farming, noting how they enhance soil health and biodiversity. Murphy advocates for sustainable agriculture that is both economically viable and environmentally impactful, aiming to inspire younger generations to pursue ranching. Her story reflects themes of hard work, resilience, and the importance of reconnecting with nature, ultimately underscoring the potential for collaborative efforts to foster a sustainable future.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Scott Strode, the founder of The Phoenix who shares his inspiring journey of recovery and discusses the mission of his nonprofit organization. The Phoenix provides a free, sober, and active community for individuals overcoming addiction, emphasizing the transformative power of community support. Scott highlights the importance of addressing relapse with compassion rather than stigma and advocates for innovative approaches to tackle challenges in the addiction and mental health fields.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Michael Lopéz-Alegría, the chief astronaut at Axiom Space, who shares his inspiring journey from aspiring astronaut to seasoned space traveler. He discusses his experiences aboard various spacecraft, the emotional aspects of space travel, and the vital role of training in managing fear and uncertainty. Michael Lopéz-Alegría highlights Axiom Space's mission to build a commercial space station, with plans for its first module set to launch in 2026, and the development of next-generation spacesuits for NASA. He reflects on how witnessing the moon landings fueled his passion for space and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with industries beyond traditional space sectors to foster innovation. The conversation also addresses the political landscape surrounding space funding and the bipartisan commitment to maintaining leadership in human spaceflight, offering valuable insights into both Michael Lopéz-Alegría's personal journey and Axiom Space’s ambitious goals.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes psychology Professor Robin Fivush who discusses how family storytelling strengthens connection, memory, and identity. She and Mary explores its role in processing experiences, fostering communication, shaping generational identities, and its cultural and healing significance, especially in dementia and community settings.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Marisa Wayne, who reflects on her father, John Wayne, his legacy, and their work with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. Marisa shares fond memories, including family traditions, her father’s humor, and their time together on their boat. She discusses the foundation’s efforts in cancer research, prevention, and treatment, as well as the creation of the John Wayne Museum. Marisa also opens up about fan mail sent to her father, her passion for cooking and her fitness industry involvement. Throughout, she highlights the family’s values of kindness, respect, and faith.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Dr. Steve Gelfand, a retired rheumatologist who discusses the opioid crisis, covering its history, medical education's role, addiction stigma, fentanyl's rise, and the need for education and open dialogue on drug use.

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Emmy-winning actress Eileen Davidson who shares her journey from starting her acting career in her late teens to becoming a beloved figure in daytime television, particularly known for her role as Ashley Abbott on The Young and the Restless. Eileen reflects on the hurdles she overcame, including the emotional toll of rejection and the mentors who helped her stay grounded, emphasizing the importance of preparation, personal growth, and integrity in an industry that often prioritizes drama over peace. She also discusses her creative ventures beyond acting, such as writing, which she now considers her first love, and her surprising shift into hypnotherapy to manage fears like flying. In conversation with Mary Bono, Eileen addresses the challenges women face in balancing career, family, and personal life in the fast-paced entertainment industry, exploring the evolving landscape for women post-#MeToo and the significant impact of social media on public perception. Sharing lessons learned from her time on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she highlights the necessity of staying true to oneself despite external pressures. With humor and wisdom, Eileen offers valuable advice for aspiring women in the industry, stressing the importance of a strong support system and embracing rejection as a crucial part of the growth process. This heartfelt discussion serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength required to navigate the complexities women face in their personal and professional lives.

Sagely Speaking With Mary Bono welcomes Cammie Wolf Rice, a dedicated philanthropist and activist. Cammie shares her personal story of loss from the opioid crisis and her journey of resilience. She is the founder of the Life Care Specialist Program, which provides vital support and education to hospital patients about opioid use. Cammie stresses the importance of prevention, education, and community mobilization in combating substance misuse and the fentanyl crisis. Additionally, she collaborates with Usher's Foundation to empower youth and discusses her new book, "The Flight," which aims to inspire others through her experiences. Join Mary and Cammie as they delve into these crucial topics, highlighting hope and community action in the fight against opioid misuse.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Scott D. Payne, a retired FBI agent with 28 years of law enforcement experience, who shares insights on the evolving challenges in policing. He discusses the dynamic nature of smuggling, emphasizing that demand influences supply and methods, while expressing concern about the impact of open borders on national security. Payne highlights ongoing challenges in interagency collaboration since 9/11 and notes the evolution of domestic terrorism into a more dangerous form called accelerationism. As one of only about 600 certified undercover agents in the FBI, he reflects on the rarity and emotional toll of undercover work. Additionally, he addresses a significant crisis in Tennessee, stressing the need for better public policy to address the situation. Throughout his career, Payne emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding in law enforcement, advocating for love over hate in society as a crucial aspect of effective policing.

Former Congresswoman Mary Bono welcomes Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). They cover key issues like border security, immigration reform, and the fentanyl crisis. The Congressman discusses his advocacy for the Legal Workforce Act, which mandates E-Verify for new hires, emphasizing strong border policies for a secure workforce. He addresses the fentanyl crisis as a critical national security issue, calling for a comprehensive response to its impact. On international matters, Calvert shares insights on countering China’s influence, supporting U.S. engagement in Ukraine for global stability, and combating misinformation. The conversation also touches on the excitement around space exploration and the need for investment in this area, as well as the importance of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing to enhance economic and national security. Congressman Calvert’s passion and perspectives are sure to inspire thoughtful discussion among listeners.