STORYTELLHER

For the 100th episode of STORYTELLHER, the tables are turned as host Deborah Kevin takes the guest seat! Emily Arndt leads this special conversation, diving into the heart of the podcast’s mission: elevating women’s voices and amplifying their stories. Discover how these powerful conversations have not only inspired listeners but also profoundly shaped Deborah herself. This milestone episode marks an exciting beginning of even more stories, insights, and impact still to come—don’t miss it!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Deborah’s personal journey and how she transformed her beliefs along the way
• The story behind founding Highlander Press and launching the STORYTELLHER podcast
• Why amplifying women’s voices is so powerful and necessary
• How storytelling can bridge divides and foster empathy
• Insights into what truly makes a great interview
• The valuable lessons Deborah has gained from her guests
• And much more!

About Deborah:

Deborah Kevin is the founder of Highlander Press, host of the STORYTELLHER podcast, bestselling author of Shelf Life: A Field Guide to Long-Term Author Success, and an unapologetic disruptor of the status quo. She’s on a mission to elevate women’s voices and help changemakers share their stories with impact and heart. An adventurer at heart, Debby has trekked the Camino de Santiago and thrives on exploring the world with her family. A magic believer, French Press enthusiast, and master of irreverent humor, she brings warmth, wit, and bold truth-telling to everything she touches.

Connect with Emily Arndt!

The Space Between film: https://www.spacebetweenfilm.org/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thespacebetweenfilm2025/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespacebetweenfilm2025/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thespacebetweendoc2025

Website: https://emslenscreative.com/

Book Recommendation:

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Behind every book lies a story—and Stacey Wilk’s path to becoming a romance author is one you won’t want to miss! In this episode, Deborah sits down with Stacey to uncover the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs that shaped her journey. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a writer or simply love hearing how authors bring stories to life, this conversation is sure to spark your own creativity and passion. Get ready to be inspired!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Why writing is a skill anyone can learn, not just a gift you’re born with
• Stacey’s unique writing process and publishing journey
• Overcoming common challenges—plot, characters, and deadlines
• Creating authentic connections between the author and readers
• How writing fuels both communication and self-discovery
• And much more!

About Stacey:

Best-selling and award-winning author, Stacey Wilk, writes romance that hooks you heart and soul. She published her first novel in 2013. Since then, she’s published another thirty, so women everywhere can slow down and indulge. They certainly deserve it.

When she isn’t writing, she speaks to groups to educate, entertain and motivate. She even earned a degree in Speech, Theater, Communications. Let’s face it. She has a lot to say. Wanna chat?

Connect with Stacey Wilk!

Website: https://www.staceywilk.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/staceysnovelfamily

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

Book Recommendations:

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier 

Sea Glass Made with Second Chances by Stacey Wilk 

Sea Glass Hidden in Plain Sight by Stacey Wilk 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Many women still struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn when it comes to their hormonal health, even with so many resources available today! In this episode, Deborah sits down with Aditi Manocha to uncover how women can better understand their bodies, embrace their health, and find the guidance they need on their hormonal journey. If you’ve ever wished for a roadmap on your wellness journey, this episode is filled with insights you won’t want to miss!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Aditi’s personal health journey and how it shaped the work she’s doing today
• Breaking the taboo around women’s health issues and starting open conversations
• Uncovering the biggest misconceptions about women’s hormones
• Understanding the fundamental differences between male and female hormonal cycles
• Learning to accept, honor, and navigate natural changes in the body, including aging
• And much more!

About Aditi:

Aditi is a lawyer and policy professional turned passionate hormone and gut health nutrition coach, based in Washington DC. Her own health journey led her down this path, and in 2021 she enrolled at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City to learn more about chronic health conditions and how to manage them organically. Aditi loves talking all things food, culture, travel, and yoga. She hails from New Delhi, India, where she loves spending her Christmas break every year with her friends and family.

Connect with Aditi Manocha!

Website: https://www.head2heal.co/

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/head2heal.co

Book Recommendation:

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Our society is undeniably divided! But is division our destiny, or can we choose a different path? Join Deborah and Emily Arndt as they dive into the roots of polarization and the real possibility of change. Together, they uncover how understanding, compassion, and common ground can shift the narrative from conflict to connection. This isn’t just another talk about problems—it’s an invitation to be part of the solution!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Emily’s mission to repair conversations and build genuine connections
• The most common myth about communication—and why it holds us back
• Why are people more similar than different
• How visual storytelling can unite people across differences
• Breaking free from internal narratives and societal stereotypes
• And much more!

About Emily:

Communications expert with a master's in political communication and years of experience working in politics, filmmaker, small business owner (Em's Lens - (emslenscreative.com) photo and video for nonprofits, small businesses, and individuals), came from a family of poor communicators, so she wants to help mend our nation’s communication.

Connect with Emily Arndt!

The Space Between film: https://www.spacebetweenfilm.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespacebetweendocumentary/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thespacebetweendoc

Website: https://emslenscreative.com/

Website Recommendation: https://www.allsides.com/unbiased-balanced-news

Book Recommendations:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle 

Beyond the Politics of Contempt by Doug Teschner, Beth Malow, and Becky Robinson 

Uncivil Agreement by Lilliana Mason 

Connect with Deborah Kevin!

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the world because of your sensitive nature? You’re not alone—and it’s not a weakness! Join Deborah and Karen Blaine as they uncover how sensitivity, when embraced, can become one of your greatest assets. With Karen’s guidance, you’ll discover how to celebrate your sensitivity and use it as a source of strength, clarity, and empowerment!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• How Karen’s personal transformation became the foundation of her writing journey
• The unique approach of conversational hypnotherapy and how it differs from traditional methods
• Insights on personal growth, self-love, and tapping into the power of the subconscious mind
• Why leaning into your inner wisdom is more empowering than relying on external validation
• A closer look at Karen’s books and why they matter
• And much more!

About Karen:

Karen Blaine is a published author, full-time writer, retired certified hypnotherapist, and intuitive empath dedicated to inspiring her readers to embrace their authentic selves and live more fulfilling lives. With a background in creative arts and a BA in Speech Communications, Karen writes books that explore personal growth, the power of the subconscious, and the importance of self-love. Her works, including You Are Not Alone, Who Are You, Dreamscapes, Subconsciously Speaking, and Up In The Air, offer tools for self-discovery, resilience, and emotional well-being. A lifelong Southern California resident, Karen is also a passionate reader and a proud mother of four.

Connect with Karen Blaine!

Website: https://www.eternalempath.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenblaine1/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenblaineeternalempath/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eternal_empath

Book Recommendation:

The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

The world tells women to compete, but Sharissa Bradley is here to prove otherwise! In this episode, Deborah talks with Sharissa about why collaboration, not competition, is the true key to success. From empowering women to championing writers, Sharissa shows us how to create space for everyone to thrive—and how you can do it too!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Sharissa’s journey with Project Seed Money and her role in shaping its mission
• How the platform uplifts and empowers women writers
• Building success through a collaborative, non-competitive approach
• Sharissa’s perspective on grant applications and how women can reframe rejection
• Insights from Sharissa’s book Journey Back to Health
• And much more!

About Sharissa:

Sharissa Bradley is the visionary behind Project Seed Money—a free resource platform dedicated to empowering female authors. Sharissa provides women writers with the education, tools, and connections necessary to secure funding and navigate their publishing journeys. As a published author and homeschooling mother of three who resides in Northern Nevada, she combines personal experience with professional expertise to foster a supportive community for women writers.

Connect with Sharissa Bradley!

Website: https://projectseedmoney.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharissa-bradley-619832113/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@project.seed.money

Book Recommendations:

The Ultimate Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams 

Journey Back to Health by Sharissa Bradley 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

As we grow older, it’s easy to feel our energy slipping away under the weight of life’s challenges—but it doesn’t have to stay that way! In this empowering episode, Deborah sits down with Isabelle von Boetticher Fouchard to explore the power of transformative energy work. Isabelle shares her holistic approach to restoring balance and strength, showing why this practice is a true game-changer for living life to the fullest!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Isabelle’s journey of healing and reinvention
• The mindset shift that makes dreams attainable
• How to break free from limiting beliefs and societal conditioning
• Isabelle’s unique “I Am” method—Initiation, Activation, and Mastering—and how it transforms lives
• How energy work supports women through menopause
• And much more!

About Isabelle:

Isabelle von Boetticher Fouchard is a multicultural & multifaceted holistic health practitioner, leadership development & personal energy management catalyst.

After two impactful losses of partners and burnout as vice president in the corporate world, she, at more than 45 years old, reinvented herself as a first-time entrepreneur living and working between her two home countries: Germany and Haiti.

As mother of an adult child, caregiver to her elderly parents, and holistic health and life coach, she now truly knows how to empower ambitious women in menopause to overcome and heal exhaustion, fears, and self-doubt through transformative energy work and personal development coaching.

Connect with Isabelle von Boetticher Fouchard:

Website: https://cayae.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-von-boetticher-fouchard-1141ba40/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556378234484

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@isabellevonboetticher-health4U

ReBORN & EmPOWERED 1:1 Coaching Program: https://empowered.cayae.org/

Free Energize Meditation: https://cayae.org/

Book Recommendation:

Archetypes: A Beginner’s Guide to Your Inner-Net by Carolyn Myss, PhD 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Inner peace doesn’t always come from serious effort — sometimes, it starts with pure fun! In this episode, Deborah sits down with Emily Iannuzzelli to explore the surprising and transformative power of improv. More than just comedy, improv can be a powerful tool for healing, growth, and joy. It’s a path you may never have considered before, but this conversation might open your eyes to a whole new way of finding peace!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• What inspired Emily to step into improv
• The unexpected life-changing benefits of improv classes
• How clarity fuels the process of manifesting goals
• The role of play in creating a balanced adult life
• A sneak peek into Emily’s upcoming book
• And much more!

About Emily:

Emily Iannuzzelli is an improv teacher, somatic facilitator, and writer based in Baltimore. She blends comedy, nervous system science, and embodiment to help people heal through play. A project manager by day, Emily brings clarity and heart to every space she leads—whether hosting workshops, mentoring women, or building digital experiences. She's currently writing a book weaving memoir, nervous system theory, and spiritual principles of creativity. Emily’s work uplifts creative, neurodivergent women through humor, regulation, and authentic connection.

How to Find Emily:

Website: https://emilyiannuzzelli.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/find.focus.within

Book Recommendations:

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron 

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert 

Mind Over Back Pain by John Sarno, M.D. 

Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke, M.D. 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

Who can you trust when everything feels like it's falling apart? In this heartfelt episode, Deborah sits down with Kimberly De Jong to talk about navigating life's most challenging transitions. Together, they share insights on resilience, trust, and finding hope when circumstances feel out of control. If you're going through a tough season right now, this conversation will remind you that hope and healing are possible!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Kimberly's inspiring writing journey and how it shaped her perspective
• How Kimberly faced and overcame self-doubt and low self-esteem
• Why writing can become a source of confidence and empowerment
• The power of faith when navigating life's hardest transitions
• How writing a memoir became a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery
• And much more!

About Kimberly:

Kimberly has been married to her husband Phil for 49 years. They live in Central California, in the small city of Ripon. They have two children and six grandchildren. She enjoys quilting, reading, and visiting with her grandchildren when not writing. She published her first book, "Trusting God Through Life's Transitions," at age 68. She is currently working on her second book, "With Me in the Storm," a memoir.

Connect with Kimberly De Jong!

Website: https://kimberlyadejong.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.dejong.927

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

Three Free Devotions from Kimberly's book: https://skilled-artisan-5649.kit.com/f8aa084afd

Book Recommendations:

Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristoff and Sheryl WuDunn 

Trusting God Through Life’s Transitions Kimberly A. De Jong 

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

What happens when you write with zero expectations and end up reaching millions? In this episode, Deborah chats with Manjari Sharma, who shares her incredible journey from self-doubt to fully embracing uncertainty. Her story is a testament to the magic that happens when you trust the process and let creativity lead the way. If you’re an author or creative, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep going!

Here are the things to expect in the episode:

• Keily’s inspiring success story
• Manjari’s experience of having her work adapted for the screen
• Why taking small steps and trusting the process matters more than chasing big, overwhelming expectations
• Unsuitable Proposal—Manjari’s empowering new novel that speaks directly to women’s truths
• And much more!

About Manjari:

Born and raised in Lucknow, India, Manjari penned Keily during lockdown on the Inkitt platform. What began as a passion project quickly took off and has since reached over 1 million readers on Galatea and over 600,000 viewers on CandyJar. Thanks to her hard work and with the help of Inkitt, her writing journey has far exceeded what she ever imagined.

Connect with Manjari Sharma!

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

Keily by Manjari: https://www.inkitt.com/_Manjari

Fat Keily: https://www.inkitt.com/stories/655711

Keily: https://galatea.com/en/s/1222

Keily(TV Short): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt33402457/

Book Recommendations:

Don’t Feed the Monkey Mind by Jennifer Shannon, LMFT

Connect with Deborah Kevin:

Website: www.deborahkevin.com

Substack: https://debbykevin.substack.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/

Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher

Check out Highlander Press:

Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpress

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress