Taking it for Granted

I'm bringing back one of my favorite episodes of the past year, because I think everyone needs to hear it, and if you already have, you should hear it twice. Wic Whitney is a musician and LGBTQ+ Advocate, and his music took over my ears in 2021. He is the definition of being your true self, and that's something everyone can learn from. Check out his genre-blending music by following him @wicmakesmusic, and listen to his episode for the first, or hopefully, second time!

A special compilation episode of the year's guests and what brings them the most happiness and joy in their lives.

Charity Freeland is an author, motivational speaker, and burn victim survivor who just wrote "Life Beyond the Scars." In her book, she details the life lessons learned through tragedy, and tells readers how she has continued to find hope and joy in her life. Through family, faith, and her own courage, Charity is helping countless people find their own hope and motivation. To learn more about Charity, visit her website charityfreeland.com or lifebeyondthescars.com

Sam Rivera is the founder of Samuel Rivera Films, but he took quite the path to get to where he is today. Through shifting his mindset and focusing on getting one percent better everyday, Sam has been able to create the life he wants to live. He has told numerous inspirational stories through his work, and has been able to learn some life lessons along the way too. To learn more about Sam, check out his website https://www.samuelriverafilms.com/

Mandy Connell is the host of The Mandy Connell Show on iHeartRadio and 850 AM KOA, and she has scratched and clawed her way to get there. Through hard work and making the most of the opportunities presented to her, Mandy has created one of the most popular talk radio shows in the country. While she loves her work, over the years, Mandy has found that what is most important to her is the relationships in her life, and seeing those she cares about succeed and find happiness. To learn more about Mandy, check her out on Instagram and Twitter or go to koacolorado.iheart.com/featured/mandy-connell!

Romi Bean is a sports reporter and anchor at CBS4 in Denver, Colorado. While she may have had an unusual path to where she is now, through hard work and perseverance, Romi has open doors she never thought she would. Letting people in and putting a smile on people's faces is what brings Romi true joy, and she is doing a great job at that!

Stu Adams is the Caucus Director for the Iowa House Democrats, and one of the nicest people you'll ever hope to meet. With his previous work as a campaign manager all across the Midwest, to the work he is doing now, he is doing everything he can to be the change he wants to see in the world. While his work is very rewarding, Stu takes time to notice the little moments that make his life complete!

Paul Moak is a Grammy nominated producer and musician who has worked with countless artists, and recently got off tour with Ann Wilson of Heart. Paul's passion for bringing artists' voices into their music really shines through in his work, but who he is as a person is what really sets him apart. He stays open minded and curious, and doesn't limit himself to what people think he should be. To learn more about Paul and his work, check out his website at paulmoakmusic.com.

Michael Poore is a middle school teacher, and an author of books such as "Up Jumps the Devil," "Two Girls, A Clock, and A Crooked House," and my personal favorite "Reincarnation Blues." He embraces the little moments in life, but realizes that when things get heavy, it's the people around you that make a difference. He credits those people around him with a lot of his success, but his hard work and eloquent writing style have a little something to do with it too! To Learn more about Michael and his work, follow him on Instagram, or check out his website michaelpoore.live.

Blaine Dillinger is an amazing guitarist for the reggae band Hirie, but he's so much more than that. His curious mind keeps him busy, constantly learning new ways to better himself, or new instruments to play. Blaine overcame numerous failed bands to get to where he is now, and he doesn't forget the moments that made him who he is. Whether it be through producing music, teaching, or being on the road, Blaine tries to be a bright light wherever life takes him. To learn more about Blaine, check out his and his band's Instagram @dillingermusic and @hiriemusic.