The C.K. Simms Show

Guest Name: Maya Sharfi

https://buildyourselfworkshop.com/ck

Instagram: maya.sharfi

LinkedIn: mayasharfi

📝Summary:

Leadership and executive coach Maya Sharfi joins C.K. Simms for a deeply honest conversation about ambition, burnout, and the emotional patterns that shape our careers. Drawing from her upbringing as a scholarship kid in elite schools, Maya explains how early beliefs can fuel overachievement, perfectionism, and the endless chase for “enough.” She and C.K. explore faulty assumptions, internalized pressure, the myth of safety through success, and how to shift from resentment to purpose. This episode blends mindset coaching, career strategy, and raw vulnerability as C.K. reflects on his own journey, including moments of ego, frustration, and rediscovering gratitude. A powerful listen for anyone navigating ambition, identity, and the desire for a more aligned life.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

• Early beliefs shape adult ambition — Maya explains how growing up with limited resources in elite spaces created the assumption that she had to “outthink and out plan everybody else.”

• Achievement doesn’t create safety — Even major milestones didn’t deliver the emotional security she expected.

• The “carrot on a stick” effect — External goals shift endlessly when internal needs go unaddressed.

• Resentment repels opportunity — Maya highlights how thoughts like “I should be further ahead” create emotional blocks.

• Gratitude must evolve — C.K. reflects on how gratitude helped him transform his life, but new levels require new internal work.

• Burnout mimics depression — Both discuss how burnout feels like a major depressive episode and how easily it goes unnoticed.

• Ego-driven goals create stagnation — C.K. shares how internalizing others’ expectations led to months of anger and misalignment.

• Success requires proactive visibility — Maya notes that opportunities rarely “just happen”; people must raise their hands and initiate conversations.

• Purpose fuels momentum — Shifting from entitlement to mission unlocks creativity and forward motion.

Self‑reflection reveals hidden assumptions — C.K. uncovers a childhood belief that “someone should notice me,” showing how old narratives can quietly shape adult expectations.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Early Influences

04:05 Navigating Career Challenges and Achievements

07:11 The Pursuit of Success and Its Illusions

09:47 Understanding Deservingness and Gratitude

12:44 Shifting Perspectives on Goals and Opportunities

15:49 Emotional Drivers and Motivation

18:40 Taking Control of Your Career Path

30:19 Navigating Burnout and Recovery

32:32 The Journey to Coaching and Mindset Work

34:29 Cognitive Restructuring and Emotional Awareness

38:50 Manifestation and Creating Opportunities

40:45 The Hidden Job Market and Career Advancement

42:54 Feminism and Risk-Taking in Careers

45:47 Proactive Leadership Conversations

51:40 Assessing Career Obstacles and Next Steps

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auth0rcksimms/

💖 Spread the Love

If this personal mental health recovery story centered on self-acceptance helped you, please share it with friends or family. Like the video, subscribe, and turn on notifications. Your support truly means everything.

Keywords:

#achievementmindset #burnoutrecovery #careerdevelopment #careerjourney #careermindset #careersuccess #cksimsshow #executivecoaching #growthmindset #innerwork #leadershipcoach #leadershipdevelopment #lifecoaching #mindsetcoach #mindsetmatters #motivationdaily #personaldevelopment #podcastconversation #podcastinterview #podmatch #professionalgrowth #purposefulliving #selfawareness #selfgrowth #selfreflection #successmindset #vulnerabilityinleadership #wellbeingjourney #womeninleadership #worklifebalance

Guest Name: Amy Lenius

https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/group-coaching/

Instagram: amylenius

📝Summary:

This powerful conversation with Amy Lenius of Next Level University explores her journey from years of chronic illness and misdiagnosis to becoming a speaker, educator, and advocate for women’s health. Amy shares how endometriosis, PCOS, and repeated medical dismissal shaped her early identity and how studying anatomy, holistic wellness, and self‑advocacy transformed her life. She breaks down the “inner seasons” of the menstrual cycle, the impact of stress and environment on hormones, and why women must understand their bodies to reclaim their power. The episode also dives into self-worth, personal development, and the unsexy fundamentals that create lasting change. A deeply human, inspiring, and educational conversation.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Medical dismissal is common — and harmful: Amy shares how she was repeatedly told “welcome to womanhood” despite debilitating symptoms.

2. Self‑advocacy can save your life: Her persistence led to diagnoses of endometriosis and PCOS, including a ruptured cyst that caused internal bleeding.

3. Knowledge is potential power — action makes it real: Understanding anatomy and physiology helped Amy reclaim agency over her health.

4. The body is a holistic ecosystem: Gut health, liver function, sleep, stress, hormones, and environment all interact — nothing operates in isolation.

5. Women’s cycles are a vital sign: Irregular, painful, or heavy periods are common but not normal and signal deeper imbalance.

6. Women experience “inner seasons” each month: Winter (menstruation), spring (follicular), summer (ovulation), fall (premenstrual) — each with different strengths and needs.

7. Working with your cycle builds self‑compassion: Understanding hormonal shifts reduces shame around productivity, energy, and emotional changes.

8. Environmental toxins matter: Endocrine disruptors and daily chemical exposure can worsen hormonal conditions.

9. Healing is slow, unsexy, and worth it: Amy emphasizes fundamentals, consistency, and curiosity over quick fixes.

10. Self-worth is a lifelong practice: Amy’s evolution from victim to empowered leader reflects deep inner work — and she hints at a future episode dedicated entirely to self-worth.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:39 Living with Chronic Illness

08:13 Empowerment Through Knowledge

15:19 Self-Advocacy in Healthcare

19:53 Holistic Healing and External Influences

28:06 Journey of Healing and Wins

29:22 Understanding Women's Health and Hormones

31:16 Holistic Self-Improvement and Community Engagement

33:09 Embracing Hormonal Cycles for Success

37:12 Practical Applications of Hormonal Awareness

40:25 The Four Seasons of a Woman's Cycle

55:44 Integrating Integrity in Personal Development

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auth0rcksimms/

📜 Disclaimer

The C.K. Simms Show is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this content. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Always perform your own due diligence.

📄 Copyright Notice

All content is owned by The C.K. Simms Show. Sharing video links and embedding content is permitted with proper attribution to this YouTube channel.

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

Keywords:

#advocacy #amylenius #chronicillness #cksimsshow #empowerment #endometriosis #feminism #healingjourney #healthadvocate #holistichealth #hormonehealth #innerseasons #menshealth #menstrualcycle #mindbodyconnection #nextleveluniversity #pcos #personaldevelopment #podcast #podcasting #podmatch #selfadvocacy #selfgrowth #selfworth #stresshealth #toxinfree #wellbeing #wellness #womenshealth #womensupportingwomen

Guest Name: Marita Littauer

https://thepersonalities.com/

https://livingyourbestlife60plus.com/

Instagram: maritalittauertedder

Facebook: energyrabbit

📝Summary:

In this insightful and energetic conversation, C.K. Simms interviews bestselling author Marita Littauer about her influential book Wired That Way, a personality‑typing framework rooted in ancient theory and refined through decades of research. Marita shares the origins of the system, created by her parents nearly 60 years ago, and explains how understanding personality blends—like the popular sanguine, perfect melancholy, powerful choleric, and peaceful phlegmatic—can transform communication, relationships, and self‑awareness.

Together, they explore learned vs. natural traits, emotional needs, marriage dynamics, and the power of caring enough to adapt to others. This episode is packed with revelations, humor, and practical wisdom for anyone seeking better connection in life, work, or love.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. The Wired That Way personality profile was created nearly 60 years ago by Marita’s father and remains relevant today.

2. The four core personality types—sanguine, choleric, melancholy, and phlegmatic—originate from Hippocrates, making the system over 2,000 years old.

3. Your “natural” personality may differ from learned behaviors, especially if shaped by childhood expectations or family dynamics.

4. Popular sanguines are expressive, energetic, and relationship‑driven, often seeking affirmation and connection.

5. Perfect melancholies value order, structure, and precision, but these traits can also be learned responses to upbringing.

6. Opposites often attract in relationships, but without understanding personality differences, conflict can arise.

7. Caring enough to adapt your communication style is the key to improving any relationship—personal or professional.

8. Emotional needs differ by personality type, and meeting those needs can dramatically improve connection and harmony.

9. The Wired That Way system helps people understand themselves and others, leading to better marriages, friendships, and workplace interactions.

10. Marita is dedicating this year to reintroducing Wired That Way, celebrating its 20‑year anniversary and continued impact.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Personality Insights

06:00 The Origins of Personality Profiling

13:20 Personal Experiences and Marital Dynamics

18:03 Understanding Personality Types

26:47 The Historical Context of Personality Types

31:25 Practical Applications of Personality Understanding

32:03 The Influence of Upbringing on Behavior

37:23 Understanding Personality Types and Relationships

51:45 The Importance of Caring in Relationships

57:40 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auth0rcksimms/

📜 Important Information

The C.K. Simms Show is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this content. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Always perform your own due diligence.

📄 Copyright Notice

All content is owned by The C.K. Simms Show. Sharing video links and embedding content is permitted with proper attribution to this YouTube channel.

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

Keywords:

#authenticity #communication #emotionalintelligence #growthmindset #interview #leadership #maritalhealth #maritalrelationships #maritalwisdom #mindset #personaldevelopment #personality #personalityassessment #personalityprofile #phlegmatic #podcast #podcasting #podcaster #podcasters #podcastinterview #podmatch #psychology #relationships #selfawareness #selfgrowth #selfimprovement #sanguine #transformation #wiredthatway #womenover60

Guest Name: AdamBrownlie

https://adambrownlie.com.au/

📝Summary:

In this thought‑provoking conversation, author Adam Brownlie joins CK Simms to explore the origins of his book Happypedia and the life experiences that shaped his philosophy on happiness, forgiveness, and human behavior. From growing up on a remote Australian cotton farm to boarding school, farming, business, and eventually writing a 600‑page happiness encyclopedia, Adam shares how his worldview evolved — including his belief that people are shaped by forces beyond their control. Together, they unpack the shock, resistance, and liberation that come with reframing blame, accountability, and forgiveness. This episode dives deep into happiness science, personal growth, and the radical mindset shift that could change how we see ourselves and others.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Adam’s upbringing on a remote Australian farm shaped his independence, curiosity, and early happiness.

2. Boarding school was a major social learning curve, exposing him to thousands of peers after years of isolation.

3. Rule‑following became a lifelong strength, influencing his health habits, discipline, and time in the Army Reserves.

4. His career path evolved from farming to business, property development, and eventually writing about happiness.

5. A childhood health scare sparked his early fascination with forgiveness and human suffering.

6. He developed a philosophy that people are shaped by forces beyond their control, reducing blame and increasing compassion.

7. Forgiveness is central to happiness, not for others but for our own emotional freedom.

8. Resentment and regret are major happiness blockers, and releasing them unlocks energy for healthier habits.

9. Happypedia took three years to write, with extensive research, academic review, and exercises to help readers apply concepts.

10. Adam believes this philosophy can reduce stress globally, improving health, relationships, and emotional resilience.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Adam Brownlie

01:27 Early Life and Homeschooling

05:18 Transition to Boarding School

10:15 University and Early Career

14:51 The Journey to Happiness

23:17 Philosophy of Forgiveness and Accountability

31:02 Forgiveness and Caution in Relationships

31:58 Understanding Responsibility and Change

33:48 Applying Logic to Life's Challenges

39:29 The Importance of Forgiveness for Happiness

42:54 The Connection Between Forgiveness and Stress

45:45 The Journey of Writing Happypedia

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auth0rcksimms/

📜 Disclaimer

The C.K. Simms Show is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this content. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Always perform your own due diligence.

📄 Copyright Notice

All content is owned by The C.K. Simms Show. Sharing video links and embedding content is permitted with proper attribution to this YouTube channel.

💖 Spread the Love

If this personal mental health recovery story centered on self-acceptance helped you, please like the video, subscribe, andshare it with friends or family.

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠⁠

Keywords:

#accountability #australia #authorinterview #bookdiscussion #forgiveness #happiness #Happypedia#healing #inspiration #innerpeace #interviewpodcast #lifelessons #mentalclarity #mentalhealth #mindfulness #motivation #neuroscience #personalgrowth #philosophy#podcast #podcaster #podcasting #podmatch #psychology #selfawareness #selfcare #selfdevelopment #selfhelp #stressrelief #wellbeing

Guest Name: Wendy Correa

www.wendybcorrea.com

Instagram: wendybcorrea

Facebook: wendycorrea

📝Summary:

Author Wendy Correa joins The C.K. Simms Show to discuss her memoir My Pretty Baby, a powerful exploration of childhood innocence, early trauma, family secrets, and the lifelong journey of healing. She opens up about losing her father at seven, surviving an abusive home, navigating addiction, and ultimately finding recovery through spirituality, therapy, and self‑reflection. Her story becomes a call to action for others to confront family dysfunction, embrace inner‑child healing, and reclaim their lives with compassion and honesty.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Childhood innocence can be shattered abruptly, and healing often begins with acknowledging the child you once were.

2. Unprocessed grief in childhood leaves deep emotional imprints, especially when adults fail to explain or support.

3. Family dysfunction and secrets shape identity, but uncovering the truth can be liberating.

4. Estrangement can be an act of self‑protection, not a lack of love.

5. Forgiveness doesn’t require continued relationship, only compassion and boundaries.

6. Addiction often begins as a coping mechanism, especially for children living in unsafe environments.

7. Sobriety is possible with community support, and sometimes unexpected moments—like meeting Ringo Starr at an AA meeting—become turning points.

8. Healing is a lifelong, multi‑layered process, often involving therapy, spirituality, nature, and self‑inquiry.

9. Writing can be a powerful tool for understanding trauma, helping untangle complex family histories.

Sharing your story helps others heal, creating space for conversations about trauma, resilience, and recovery.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:04 Childhood Innocence and Loss

05:36 The Impact of Grief on a Child

08:45 Family Dynamics and Trauma

12:57 Unraveling Family Secrets

17:13 Compassion and Healing

18:38 Estrangement and Boundaries

22:17 Navigating Family Relationships

27:46 Reflections on Love and Acceptance

28:26 The Essence of True Christianity

30:32 Personal Reflections on Responsibility and Growth

31:02 Journey to Sobriety: A Personal Story

37:34 The Role of Support in Recovery

39:52 Spirituality Beyond Organized Religion

43:07 The Struggles of Quitting Addictions

47:51 Celebrating Literary Achievements

51:23 Future Aspirations and Healing Messages

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auth0rcksimms/

📜 Disclaimer

The C.K. Simms Show is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this content. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Always perform your own due diligence.

📄 Copyright Notice

All content is owned by The C.K. Simms Show. Sharing video links and embedding content is permitted with proper attribution to this YouTube channel.

💖 Spread the Love

If this personal mental health recovery story centered on self-acceptance helped you, please share it with friends or family.

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

Keywords:

#addictionrecovery #authorinterview #bookdiscussion #booklovers #bookmemoir #childhoodtrauma #cksimsshow #emotionalhealing #familydysfunction #healingjourney #innerchildwork #inspiration #memoirwriter #mentalhealthmatters #myprettybaby #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podmatch #recoveryjourney #selfcompassion #selfdiscovery #selfgrowth #sobrietyjourney #spiritualhealing #storytelling #traumahealing #traumarecovery #writersofinstagram #writingcommunity #writingmemoir

GuestName: Dr. Niran Al-Agba

https://www.secondopinion-md.com/

📝Summary:

Pediatrician and medical scientist Dr. Niran Al‑Agba joins the show to expose a hidden crisis inside child‑abuse investigations: misdiagnoses, racial and cultural bias, and the devastating consequences families face when medicine and CPS systems get it wrong. Drawing from real cases across 24 U.S. states, Dr. Al‑Agba explains how birth trauma, genetic conditions, and overlooked medical history can be mistaken for abuse — and why independent, blind second opinions are essential. This conversation reveals the systemic gaps that harm marginalized families most, the immunity child‑abuse doctors receive even when they’re wrong, and the emotional and legal fallout for parents whose children are removed without cause. A powerful, eye‑opening discussion on science, justice, and the urgent need for reform.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Misdiagnosis is common — Dr. Al‑Agba finds scientific or medical explanations in roughly 60% of cases labeled as abuse.

2. Racial and cultural bias is widespread — Black, Indigenous, immigrant, and low‑income families are disproportionately accused.

3. Child‑abuse doctors have legal immunity — even when they make serious errors, they cannot be sued for malpractice or civil rights violations.

4. Birth trauma is often ignored — difficult deliveries, vacuum extractions, and C‑sections can cause injuries later mistaken for abuse.

5. Second opinions are rarely blind — colleagues reviewing each other’s work creates bias; independent reviews are crucial.

6. Families can lose children instantly — CPS can remove a child within minutes based solely on a doctor’s report.

7. Parents are often handcuffed or escorted out — even when later proven innocent, the trauma is lasting.

8. Marginalized families have fewer resources — making them more vulnerable to wrongful accusations and unable to fight back.

9. Some doctors see abuse everywhere — specialists trained only to look for abuse may overlook medical explanations.

10. Independent pediatricians face backlash — doctors like Dr. Al‑Agba who challenge the system risk professional retaliation.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Niran Al-Agba

04:00 Journey into Pediatrics and Advocacy

06:52 The Catalyst for Change in Child Abuse Cases

09:37 Biases in Child Abuse Investigations

12:20 The Role of Second Opinions in Medical Practice

15:10 Challenges Faced by Pediatricians in Child Abuse Cases

17:55 The Immunity of Child Abuse Doctors

20:56 The Impact of Bias on Families

23:44 The Process of Child Removal and Legal Representation

25:46 Understanding Child Abuse Cases

28:41 The Role of Medical History in Assessing Abuse

32:59 Complications in Childbirth and Their Implications

38:12 The Impact of False Accusations on Families

40:52 Exploring the Nuances of Abuse Cases

46:44 Recognizing Signs of Potential Abuse

50:17 The Importance of Second Opinions in Child Welfare

55:25 Advocating for Change in Child Protection Policies

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

🌐 Connect With The C.K. Simms Show:

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

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thecksimmshow

Keywords:

#advocacy #biasinmedicine #childabuseawareness #childadvocacy #childprotection #cpsreform #doctorstories #familyjustice #healthcarebias #healthcareethics #independentmedicine #medicalbias #medicalethics #medicalinjustice #medicalmisdiagnosis #medicalreform #medicine #parentalrights #pediatrics #podcast #podcaster #podcasting #podcastinterview #podmatch #publicdefense #racialbias #socialjustice #systemicbias #traumainformed #wrongfulaccusations

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

Guest Name: Scott Martin

https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin

https://librarytalespublishing.com/products/play-from-your-heart

https://a.co/d/08oCbL5F

Summary:

Former nationally ranked soccer coach and quad amputee Scott Martin joins C.K. Simms for a powerful, deeply human conversation about trauma, resilience, fatherhood, discrimination, and the long road back to purpose. After contracting Group A Strep with necrotizing fasciitis and waking from a month‑long coma to life‑altering amputations, Scott pushed forward—coaching for five more years while silently battling depression, then walking away from the sport entirely. A spontaneous moment watching a news report led him and his then‑wife to adopt five children from Romania and Ethiopia, all of whom had lost their parents to AIDS.

Scott opens up about guilt, shame, identity, and the “fog” he lived in for years. He explains how prosthetics work, how he rebuilt his life, and how returning to coaching decades later led to an undefeated season with a team no one believed in. His new book, Play From Your Heart, captures his journey and the lessons he now shares with athletes, students, and readers: trust yourself, expect failure, accept it, and keep moving.

This episode is raw and inspiring—an honest look at humanity, healing, and what it means to truly play from the heart.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. A single moment can change your life’s direction — Scott decided to adopt after a 10‑minute emotional spark from a news story.

2. Trauma doesn’t always look like trauma — he pushed through five years of coaching while silently drowning in depression.

3. Men are rarely taught emotional processing — Scott openly discusses the “stupid male decisions” he made because he didn’t know another way.

4. Disability brought unexpected discrimination — especially from male coaches who underestimated him before matches.

5. Women reacted differently — female coaches never flinched or hesitated when shaking his prosthetic hands.

6. Prosthetics are powered by muscle signals — Scott explains how myoelectric hands work and why reliability matters more than fancy tech.

7. Adoption reshaped his identity — becoming a full‑time father pulled him out of the spotlight and into healing.

8. Failure is part of mastery — his philosophy: expect failure, accept failure, learn from failure.

9. His return to coaching was triumphant — he led a C‑team of 12‑year‑olds to an undefeated state championship season.

10. His book is a message for dark times — a positive story meant to inspire, educate, and challenge assumptions about disability and humanity.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Scott Martin

02:57 The Journey of Adoption

07:41 Life Before Disability

12:23 The Impact of Illness and Amputation

18:22 Navigating Life with a Disability

24:56 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

28:55 Recognizing Depression and Guilt

31:17 The Journey of Fatherhood and Coaching

32:41 The Birth of a Book: From Idea to Publication

37:10 Finding Fulfillment in Relationships

39:33 The Importance of Trusting Yourself

47:53 A Message of Kindness and Humanity

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? SendC.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc

⁠

Keywords:

#adoptionjourney #authorinterview #cksimms #disabilityawareness #disabilityinclusion#empowermentstories #fathersjourney #healingjourney #inspirationalpodcast #inspirationdaily #lifelessons #mentalhealthmatters #mindsetshift#motivationstory #nevergiveup #overcomingadversity #parentingjourney #playfromyourheart #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podmatch #prosthetics #quadamputee #resilience #soccercoach #storytellingpodcast #survivorstories#traumarecovery #upliftingstories #worldcup2026

Guest Name: Laura Van Wormer

https://lauravanwormer.net/

https://classof74podcast.com/

Summary:

In this powerful conversation, novelist and former Doubleday editor Laura Van Wormer shares her extraordinary life story — from discovering storytelling at a young age to becoming a bestselling author, getting sober at 27, surviving a devastating drunk‑driving crash, and rebuilding her life and creativity.

Drawing from moments like “I started writing again for the first time” and her description of being “literally Humpty Dumpty” after the accident, Laura opens up about resilience, identity, and rediscovering purpose through her fictional podcast The Class of 74. This episode is a testament to reinvention at any age, the healing power of storytelling, and the courage to begin again.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Creativity begins with curiosity — Laura’s mother sparked her storytelling at a young age by asking her to describe Life magazine photos.

2. Sobriety unlocked her writing career — After getting sober at 27, she "started writing again for the first time.”

3. Her publishing career was shaped by chance encounters, including meeting Jackie Onassis at Doubleday.

4. She survived a catastrophic drunk‑driving crash, waking up a month later and describing herself as “literally Humpty Dumpty.”

5. Cognitive injury forced her to relearn how to create, eventually discovering new ways to work.

6. Community saved her — She received 242 letters from her former classmates during recovery, inspiring her future storytelling.

7. The Class of 74 podcast was born from wanting to be heard again, after struggling to speak at her reunion.

8. Fiction became a vehicle for healing, allowing her to revisit the past safely and with humor.

9. Reinvention has no age limit — at 70, she launched a successful serialized podcast.

10. Her message: start where you are — creativity, purpose, and connection can begin at any moment.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Connection

04:22 The Journey of a Writer

07:00 Influences and Early Life

09:24 The Class of '74 and Societal Changes

12:06 Career Beginnings and Jackie Onassis

14:49 Writing and Personal Growth

17:27 Overcoming Alcoholism

19:58 The Impact of a Life-Altering Accident

22:25 Rebuilding Life and Career

25:12 Navigating Mental Health Challenges

27:51 Finding Purpose in Writing Again

38:44 The Journey of Writing and Discovery

43:02 Reconnecting with the Past: High School Reunion

45:40 The Birth of a Podcast: Class of 74

55:35 Finding Purpose and Kindness in Creativity

59:03 Historical Context and Personal Narratives

01:04:13 Building Community Through Storytelling

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

📜 Important Information

The C.K. Simms Show is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this content. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Always perform your own due diligence.

📄 Copyright Notice

All content is owned by The C.K. Simms Show. Sharing videos, links and embedding content is permitted with proper attribution.

Keywords:

#addictionrecovery #authorlife #bookcommunity #creativejourney #fictionpodcast #healingjourney #inspirationdaily #lauravanwormer #lifereinvention #mentalhealthstories #novelistlife #overcomingadversity #patreoncreators #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podcastinspiration #podcastinterview #podmatch #publishinglife #resiliencequotes #selfgrowthjourney #sobrietystories #storytellingmagic #survivorstories #theclassof74 #traumarecovery #womenauthors #writerscommunity #writinglife #writingmotivation

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

Guest Name: Tom LeNoble

www.tomlenoble.com

www.linkedin.com/in/tomlenoble

https://www.facebook.com/tomlenoble

https://www.instagram.com/lenoble.tom

📝 Summary:

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, award‑winning author and philanthropist Tom LeNoble shares the remarkable story behind his memoir My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns, and High Heels. From growing up in a shack in Jacksonville Beach to performing in drag pageants, from leading operations at Facebook as one of its first 75 employees to surviving two life-threatening illness, Tom’s life is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and purpose.

He opens up about living through three “six‑months‑to‑live” diagnoses, building a high‑level corporate career while battling life‑threatening illness, and ultimately dedicating his life to philanthropy, coaching, and helping others live fully. Tom also reveals what’s next: a one‑person stage production that brings all three of his life personas to the spotlight, and two upcoming books that continue his extraordinary story. This episode is inspiring, raw, funny, and unforgettable.

🎙️ Topics explored in this episode:

1. Your beginnings don’t define your destiny. Tom grew up in a one‑bedroom shack with no hot water, yet built a global career.

2. Identity is layered. His life includes business suits, hospital gowns, and high heels — all equally real and formative.

3. Performing helped him. It gave him a community, confidence, and a belonging during some difficult times.

4. He survived the AIDS crisis firsthand. Diagnosed with full‑blown AIDS in 1989 with only nine T‑cells.

5. Purpose fuels survival. Returning to work after disability dramatically improved his health and outlook.

6. He helped create the early Facebook culture. As one of the first 75 employees, he built customer operations and worked directly with Mark Zuckerberg.

7. Philanthropy is his life’s mission. He supports underserved communities, youth in the arts, first‑gen students, and more.

8. Manifestation works — when you release control. Tom shares powerful stories about letting go of expectations and allowing life to unfold.

9. We are the sum of all our parts. Every chapter — even the hidden ones — shapes who we become.

10. Living fully is a choice. Tom teaches that we are all “living while dying,” and gratitude is the foundation of a meaningful life.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Tom LeNoble

03:51 Growing Up in a Shack: Early Life and Family

07:00 Transitioning from Childhood to Adulthood

09:38 The High Heels Era: Embracing Performance and Identity

12:24 Career Journey: From Bartending to Corporate Success

15:23 Life Threatening Illnesses: Overcoming Adversity

18:20 Philanthropy and Coaching: Giving Back to the Community

25:24 A Journey of Resilience and Reflection

30:39 Living Fully While Dying

36:39 The Power of Gratitude and Service

40:15 Manifestation and Expectations

49:24 The Sum of Our Parts: Embracing Life's Journey

Keywords:

#aidssurvivor #authorinterview #cancerwarrior #cksimsshow #dragstory #empowermentjourney #facebookhistory #healingjourney #hivaidsawareness #inspirationdaily #interviewpodcast #lifelessons #lgbtqstories #memoirwriter #mindsetshift #motivationtalk #overcomingadversity #personaltransformation #philanthropywork #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podmatch #resilience #selfgrowth #selfhelpstories #survivorstories #tomlenoble #transformationjourney #wellnessmindset #womenandallies

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? SendC.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc

Guest Name: Dr. Melanie Gray

https://www.drmelaniegraytheconfidencecoach.com/

Instagram: drmelaniewellnesscoach

Facebook: melanie.gray.550422

LinkedIn: drmelaniegray

📝Summary:

In this powerful Black History Month episode, C.K. Simms sits down with Dr. Melanie Gray — a 2017 Black Excellence Award recipient — to explore her extraordinary 41‑year journey in nursing, higher education, trauma‑informed care, and leadership. From growing up in a family shaped by Jim Crow to becoming the first in her family to earn a college and terminal degree, Dr. Gray shares how she navigated discrimination, embraced pivotal career shifts, and built a life rooted in purpose and faith.

She also introduces her upcoming book Stop It, a transformational guide to overcoming burnout and reclaiming personal agency. This conversation is rich with wisdom, empowerment, and a reminder that it’s never too late to pivot into your calling.

🎙️Top 10 Takeaways:

1. Pivots are powerful. Dr. Gray’s career includes multiple reinventions — from ICU nurse to educator to trauma‑informed care expert — each driven by purpose and self‑preservation.

2. Black excellence is lived, not claimed. Her 2017 Black Excellence Award reflects decades of service, leadership, and resilience.

3. Discrimination persists — but so does strength. She recounts being mistaken for an aide, ignored by physicians, and questioned about her credentials.

4. Education was a generational breakthrough. As the first in her family to earn both a college degree and a PhD, she fulfilled dreams her parents could not access.

5. Burnout is a signal, not a sentence. Her upcoming book Stop It teaches people to recognize burnout, tell themselves the truth, and prioritize healing.

6. Social media amplifies dissatisfaction. Dr. Gray warns that constant comparison erodes self‑worth and fuels division.

7. Leadership is not about titles. Anyone guiding others — parents, volunteers, community members — is a leader.

8. Preparation creates freedom. She intentionally built financial stability before pivoting into consulting and semi‑retirement.

9. Faith is her foundation. Dr. Gray speaks openly about her relationship with God and how it sustains her purpose.

10. You are a gift. Her message to all generations — especially Black listeners — is to step away from negativity, forgive yourself, and embrace your inherent worth.

⏱️Chapters:

00:00 Celebrating Black History and Excellence

04:54 Journey into Nursing: A Personal Story

07:40 Facing Discrimination in Healthcare

10:24 The Impact of Social Media on Perception

12:58 Navigating Career Changes and Education

15:31 The State of Society and Future Generations

22:47 Navigating Career Pivots

26:23 Embracing Change and Transformation

31:58 The Journey to Writing 'Stop It'

37:19 Faith, Resilience, and Personal Growth

42:45 Empowering Generations to Overcome Challenges

#affirmation #authenticity #blackexcellence #blackhistorymonth #blackleaders #burnoutrecovery #careerpivot #cksimsshow #confidencecoach #drmelaniegray #empowerment #faithjourney #healingjourney #inspiration #leadershipdevelopment #lifepurpose #mentalhealthmatters #motivationdaily #nursingjourney #onlineeducation #personalgrowth #podcastinterview #podmatch #resilience #selfcaretips #selfworth #traumainformedcare #wellbeing #womeninleadership #wisdom

🎬 About The Show:

Season Three of Poddin’ My Noggin has evolved into The C.K. Simms Show, expanding beyond the limits of a traditional podcast into a web-based talk show experience.

The show continues to explore the psychology of adversity and personal definitions of success while introducing exciting new segments:

Small business conversations

Independent artist spotlights

Fresh faces and inspiring stories

Public figures, actors, comedians, and thought leaders

Community giveaways and contests

Want to be a guest on The C.K. Simms Show? Send C.K. a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc