Wondering what the path to true happiness, love, and inner calm looks like? In this episode, I have the joy of speaking with Haemin Sunim—renowned Zen Buddhist teacher, celebrated author, and a guiding light for those seeking inner peace. Whether you’re searching for calm in the storm or inspiration to rediscover yourself, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and deeply grounded.

In this episode, we delve into:

1. The Search for True Happiness and Where We Can Definitely Not Find It
2. One of the Most Common Reasons for Our Own Suffering
3. Buddhist Rituals and Practices for Animals
4. How Limiting Mindsets Can Be Inherited Over Generations

This episode is perfect for you if:

●you struggle to find inner calm amidst the chaos of daily life.

●your life currently feels like it’s not going your way.

●you’re seeking genuine happiness and are ready to discover where it truly resides.

●you want to deepen your spiritual connection with animals.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to hear from you!

Sending lots of love,

Sarah

Connect with Haemin Sunim:

Website: www.haeminsunim.com

Instagram: @haemin_sunim

Book: The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down

Book: When Things Don't Go Your Way

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Kayla Craig—author, podcast host, and mother of four—to explore the grounding power of gratitude and the transformative practice of centering and breath prayers. Kayla shares wisdom on being fully present, finding hope in life's messiest moments, and the quiet miracles that illuminate our everyday lives. We also dive into the profound comfort and connection pets bring, reminding us of the beauty found in the simplest of joys.

This episode is perfect for you if:

● You long to experience prayer and connection in new, meaningful ways.

● You’re a parent, caregiver, or nurturer seeking solace and inspiration for the journey.

● You’re curious about embracing gratitude while navigating life’s chaos.

● You love animals and want to hear how they reveal profound truths about love and presence.

Take a deep breath and let this conversation remind you to pause, embrace life’s messiness, and rediscover the quiet moments where love, gratitude, and connection thrive.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!

Sending lots of love,

Sarah

What we discussed:

02:16 Connecting with God Through Writing

03:51 Navigating Acceptance, Perspective Shifts, and Resilience Through Life’s Complexities with Gratitude and Freedom

06:49 How Kayla’s Children, Especially Her Daughter Eliza, Deepen Her Understanding of God’s Love

09:44 Centering Prayer: A Transformative Practice of Listening to God with Your Heart.

15:04 Breath Prayers: Using Simple Phrases to Turn Breath into Prayer During Life’s Highs and Lows.

24:30 Holding onto Faith Through Life’s Challenges and Changes.

36:40 The Special Role of Pets

42:49 A Heartfelt Reading from Every Season Sacred

Connect with Kayla Craig:

Website: www.kaylacraig.com

Instagram: @kayla_craig and @liturgiesforparents

Her Book Every Season Scared

Her Podcast Liturgies for Parents

Free Guided Journal

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

Have you ever felt torn between all the different passions, talents, and aspects of who you are? It can feel overwhelming to figure out how to balance it all while staying true to yourself. In this episode, I’m opening up about my own struggles with this, something I’ve been so nervous to share, and how I’ve learned to embrace my multi-faceted nature.

In this episode, we delve into:

1. Something I’m Super Nervous to Share on This Podcast (OMG!)

1. My Candid Thoughts on the Word “Healer”

1. Why You Have to Bring Everything You Are to the Table

1. The Challenges of Being Multi-Faceted – How to Overcome Them

This episode is perfect for you if:

You feel torn between various aspects of your identity, passions, and talents.

You’re curious about the concept of “self-healing” and what it really means.

You want to stop playing small and embrace everything you have to offer.

Let's travel this path together because a more fun and fulfilling life awaits you when you bring your whole self to the table.

I’d would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode! Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Sending lots of love, Sarah

What We Discussed:

00:00 Coming Up: I’m So Nervous Sharing This

01:30 The Struggles of Being Multi-Faceted – How to Overcome Them

07:15 Redefining Myself: From High Performance Coach to Health and Mindset Coach

09:40 My Honest Thoughts on the Word “Healer”

14:10 Stop Playing Small: It’s Time to Embrace and Bring All of You to the Table

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

In this episode, we dive deep into the sensitive yet transformative topic of grief. It's a journey that often feels overwhelming, but with compassion, understanding, and a touch of humor, we can navigate it together. Join me and my friend Stuart as we hold space for the heaviness of grief while also finding moments of lightness and laughter—yes, even when a dog farts at the most unexpected time!

In this episode, we delve into:

1. Three common expectations that can make grief even harder

1. Is energy medicine the missing piece in healing?

1. How animals help us heal

1. And let’s not forget about how Stuart never fails to make us laugh

This episode is perfect for you if:

• You’re feeling the weight of loss and need a compassionate space to reflect.

• You’re curious about how grief manifests in unique and personal ways.

• You’ve ever wondered about the power of connection, from the love of pets to the unspoken bonds of family.

• You’re seeking comfort in the idea that grief and love are two sides of the same beautiful coin.

Take a deep breath and know that this conversation will leave you feeling held, inspired, and gently reminded of the love that gives grief its meaning.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode! Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Sending lots of love, Sarah

What We Discussed:

00:00 Coming Up: Why Our Expectations Can Make Grief Much Harder 01:10 Welcoming Stuart Back—Because You Asked (And I Maybe Bribed Him!)

03:06 Grief Isn’t Just About Death—It’s About Losing What Matters

07:26 Feeling the Loss of Who You Were (Or Who You Thought You’d Be)

14:19 Why Judgment Builds Walls and Compassion Builds Bridges

27:27 Riding the Waves of Grief: From Storms to Still Waters

42:13 Rituals and Synchronicities: How the Universe Sends Comfort

56:50 How Animals Help Us Heal Without Saying a Word

1:03:33 Is Energy Medicine the Missing Piece in Healing?

1:05:21 Unconditional Love: The Gift That Makes Grief Worth It

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

Are you in the midst of a life transition that’s making you feel unsteady or anxious? Wondering how to find your footing and feel more grounded? In this episode, I talk with Ayurveda health counselor and founder of Soul Space, Dhyana Masla, about embracing life’s significant transitions with grace and grounding. Whether stepping into motherhood or moving through life’s many chapters, Dhyana shares insights on creating space, releasing guilt, and slowing down to find clarity and strength. Let this conversation remind you that each experience, whether joyous or challenging, can transform you and lead you forward with purpose.

In this episode, we delve into:

1. Grounding Practices During Periods of Change

2. Cultivating Trust in Your Inner Wisdom (You’ll Love It!)

3. How Ayurveda Supports Times of Transformation

4. Rebuilding Your Connection with Your Body Post-Pregnancy

This episode is perfect for you if:

● You are in a phase of life transition and seeking more grounding practices.

● You want to explore how Ayurveda can support the journey into motherhood or any new chapter.

● You’re interested in building self-trust and learning to listen to your own needs.

● You are inspired by animals and how they embody natural rhythms we can learn from.

I hope this talk reminds you that the strength you need is already within you. May it inspire you—as much as it did me—to trust yourself and embrace each season of life with confidence.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode! Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Sending lots of love, Sarah

What We Discussed:

03:30 Dhyana’s Journey: Growing Up with Ayurveda and Yoga

07:20 Every Experience Is Medicine

10:56 Ayurveda Mama: Your Book for Preparing for Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

18:15 Motherhood as a Profound Rite of Passage into the Next Version of Yourself

24:00 Building a New Relationship with Your Body After Pregnancy

26:00 It Is Supposed to Be Different

27:00 How Ayurveda Can Support You in Times of Transition

34:15 Soul Space Community: Your Online Platform for Ayurveda, Yoga, and Joyful Living

39:50 Trusting Inner Knowing: Reclaiming Confidence in Parenting

45:15 Do This When You Don’t Have Time for a Break

49:15 What Animals Teach Us About Living in Sync with Our Natural Rhythms

56:15 Spirit Animals and Their Power as Sources of Guidance and Strength in Life

Connect with Dhyana Masla:

Instagram: @dhyana.masla

Soul Space: https://www.thesisterscience.com

Book Ayurveda Mama: https://a.co/d/07hQBexQ

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

Are you struggling with anxiety? We’ve got your back! In this episode, I sit down with therapist Stephanie Sorady to explore the many carry roles and responsibilities that weigh on our hearts, powerful journeys of self-compassion, breaking free from inner pressures, and the grounding presence of pets. Stephanie opens up about her own path through anxiety, giving us the gift of her wisdom and amazing tools to reconnect with ourselves.

Join us to discover:

1. Why Chronic Anxiety May Look Very Different to What You Think
2. The Heavy Shoulders of “Parentification”: Exploring the Emotional Weight of Growing Up Too Soon and the Journey to Heal
3. How Anxiety Talks Through the Body
4. How EMDR Can Help You Release Distressing Life Experiences

This episode is perfect for you if:

● You’re feeling the weight of responsibility and need a reminder that it’s okay to break free.

● You want to learn about ways to nurture yourself and build a more compassionate relationship with your inner self.

● You’re looking for real, open conversations about how our bodies and minds are deeply connected.

● You love animals and understand the joy and comfort they bring.

Take a deep breath and allow this conversation to remind you that you’re not alone and that healing is possible.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!

Sending lots of love,

Sarah

What we discussed:

00:00 Coming Up with Therapist Stephanie Sorady

01:20 Her Journey into Psychotherapy: How Personal Experiences Shaped Stephanie's Path

04:55 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Does Age Really Matter When Starting Your Career?

13:30 The Pressure of Being the Eldest: Understanding Parentification

18:28 How Including Your Cultural Background Can Help With Reparenting Yourself

22:35 Recognizing the Early Signs of Overwhelm and Burnout

30:00 Chronic Anxiety May Look Very Different to What You Think

35:00 The Emotional Messages Behind Your Physical Symptoms

38:15 How EMDR Can Help You Release Distressing Life Experiences

45:50 How She Found Her Rescue Dog Perry

50:00 The Therapeutic Role of Her Dog

Connect with Stephanie Sorady:

Instagram: @stephaniesorady

Psychotherapy Consultation: https://latinxtherapy.com/therapists/stephanie-sorady-lcsw/

The Better Habits Workbook: https://shorturl.at/evEPZ

Kiss from God: https://shorturl.at/knpqH

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl

In this special anniversary episode, we’re taking a heartfelt look back at your favorite moments—the laughs we’ve shared, the insights that resonated, and the stories that touched us all. It’s been an unforgettable journey, and we are so grateful for every single one of you joining us.

Here are the links to the full episodes featured in this anniversary mash-up:

Ep 26. Unlocking the Secrets of Animal Communication: What You Need to Know with Kara Daniels: https://youtu.be/hmWphmBHZAk?si=YiORCCEzbOND4Wd9

Ep. 30. The Power of Faith: A Journey of Strength and Hope with Tanner Olson: https://youtu.be/-kdMl45UcFk?si=BSRd4Fs077jYMFr0

Ep. 23. Transform All Your Relationships With The Millenial Therapist Dr. Sara Kuburic: https://youtu.be/kAHg_E8cAPE?si=81GwvwOBjHwrcqMv

Ep. 16. How to REALLY Listen to Your Intuition with Ellie Laks, Founder of Gentle Barn: https://youtu.be/TtRvJEguq1E?si=ETzuj9JeY9iZsnH_

Ep. 33. From Passion to Purpose, Life-Changing Impact in Animal Welfare with Ruud Tombrock:https://youtu.be/Y2JY36AqY6g?si=CmL-IHilzcselT94

Ep. 13: Dr. Renée Alsarraf on Pet Loss, Dog Health, and Life-Changing Lessons: https://youtu.be/6YFITdxtY7o?si=XJiXsakiKrQUd3AT

Ep. 25. The Neuroscience of Spirituality with Harvard-trained brain surgeon Dr. Allan Hamilton: https://youtu.be/UhCLDU7zYkA?si=2o5fSBb0hUO2bntU

Ep. 24. How can I live a more purposeful life? With Life Coach Elina Dalinova: https://youtu.be/zCM50rNQxUM?si=6CnaOBI5uO6PW4v0

Here’s to many more incredible moments ahead!

Sending lots of love, Sarah

What We Discussed:

01:10 Ep 26. Unlocking the Secrets of Animal Communication: What You Need to Know with Kara Daniels

13:34 Ep. 30. The Power of Faith: A Journey of Strength and Hope with Tanner Olson

22:39 Ep. 23. Transform All Your Relationships With The Millenial Therapist Dr. Sara Kuburic

28:54 Ep. 16. How to REALLY Listen to Your Intuition with Ellie Laks, Founder of Gentle Barn

33:02 Ep. 33. From Passion to Purpose, Life-Changing Impact in Animal Welfare with Ruud Tombrock

39:18 Ep. 13: Dr. Renée Alsarraf on Pet Loss, Dog Health, and Life-Changing Lessons

44:55 Ep. 25. The Neuroscience of Spirituality with Harvard-trained brain surgeon Dr. Allan Hamilton

49:51 Ep. 24. How can I live a more purposeful life? With Life Coach Elina Dalinova

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

Life can get pretty messy, can’t it? No matter how much I plan, things still seem to go off track, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. But some of the greatest lessons come from those unexpected twists and turns. In this episode, I’m sharing how I’ve embraced the chaos, found some humor in the mess, and what has helped me trust that even when life doesn’t go as planned, there’s always a way forward.

In this episode, we delve into:

1. How I (Unwillingly) Ended Up Looking Like a Shih Tzu

2. Leaning Into Where You Are When Life Sucks: Battling Fatigue, Brain Fog, and Emotional Struggles

3. The Impact of Social Support and Our Pets on Healing

4. Why a “Ladybug Moment” List Can Help Trust That Solutions Will Appear

This episode is perfect for you if:

● You’re facing setbacks and need a reminder that it's okay to not be okay.

● You're looking for ways to cultivate more patience and compassion for yourself.

● You love real, honest stories that remind you life doesn’t always go according to plan.

● You’re an animal lover who knows the joy that pets can bring, especially during tough times.

Take a deep breath and know that this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and encouraged to trust in the process of life.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode! Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Sending lots of love, Sarah

What We Discussed:

01:04 I’m Proof – People Do End Up Looking Like Their Pets

04:21 Being Sick for Weeks: It’s Hard When You’re Not Where You Want to Be

09:10 It’s OK to Be Sad – No Matter How Small or Big the Battle Seems

11:20 Impact of Isolation and the Healing Power of Connection

14:18 Why Starting a Ladybug Moment List Can Help You Trust Throughout Life’s Challenges

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world https://www.instagram.com/purplestars.world

Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl https://www.instagram.com/sarah.hoelzl

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld https://www.youtube.com/@PurpleStarsWorld

Dion went from being overweight, a heavy smoker, and a heavy drinker to becoming a successful ultramarathon runner. He shares his remarkable transformation, which began with a simple bet and, over time, led him to many ultramarathons, including the grueling 155-mile race through the Gobi Desert in China. During this race, Dion crossed paths with an unlikely companion—a stray dog who would later be named Gobi. This remarkable pup stayed by his side for 77 miles, keeping pace across the towering Tian Shan Mountains and sweeping sand dunes, forging a bond that would forever change both of their lives.

Join us to discover:

1. Why it’s never too late to transform your life
2. The Phenomenal True Story of the Stray Dog Gobi and Ultramarathoner Dion Leonard
3. How one kind, selfless decision can change your life forever
4. The hilarious question kids have about whether Dion had to become a doggy poop scooper in the desert

This episode is perfect for you if:

You are a huge animal lover

You love real life stories of personal adversity and resilience

You are seeking motivation to overcome life’s challenges

You doubt that you can achieve your goals

This episode is full of inspiration and touching moments you won’t want to miss! It might even be a story that changes YOUR life forever.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!

Sending lots of love,

Sarah

What we discussed:

00:00 Coming Up with Dion Leonard

01:36 How an Unexpected Path Led Dion from 250 Pounds to Ultra Marathon Running

03:03 The Bet That Changed His Life

06:06 How He Found Joy in Running After a Challenging Past

08:14 A Sliding Door Moment: Changing Life Overnight

10:03 How Running Became a Way to Heal

12:37 Day Three of the Race: Choosing a Dog Over the Lead?

14:45 Gobi's Incredible Journey Across the Gobi Desert

17:13 The Search for Gobi: The Second Twist of the Story

21:02 Finding Gobi Again: An Emotional Reunion

23:28 Why Dion Decided to Share Gobi's Story with the World

26:29 What Gobi Taught Him About Kindness

29:05 The Ripple Effect of a Single Act of Kindness

31:09 How Gobi and Lara Brought the Family Closer Together

33:24 The Impact of the Animal-Human Bond

36:41 How One Act of Kindness Changed Everything

39:49 Learning to Let Go of the Past Through Writing

42:29 How He Balances the Intensity of Running with Rest

44:52 The Importance of Finding Your Why in Life

Connect with Gobi & Dion Leonard:

Instagram: @findinggobi

Website: www.findinggobi.com

Book “Fiding Gobi”: https://a.co/d/1gHClp0

Connect with us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld

Craving more calm? Join me on a transformative journey as I share hard-earned lessons about patience, walking slower, workout routines, and owning your voice. Get ready for a blend of personal stories, practical tips, and heartwarming moments that will inspire you to tap into your inner strength, cultivate lasting peace, and build unwavering trust in yourself and life's journey.

Join me to discover:

1. How to find peace and purpose during life's waiting periods
2. The surprising secret to a consistent workout routine
3. The reward of friendship through unexpected dog encounters
4. Overcoming self-doubt and embracing your unique voice

This episode is perfect for you if:

● You want to cultivate a more positive mindset.

● You feel overwhelmed by fear in the midst of uncertainty.

● You're ready to live life to the fullest.

● You're yearning to find your voice and share your story.

I hope this episode offers you a moment of reflection and encouragement, much like it did for me. May you find peace in embracing your journey, allowing yourself to slow down, and recognizing the depth and value within each moment.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!

Sending lots of love,

Sarah

What We Discussed:

02:10 Reconnecting with Working Out After Loss & Yoga's Emotional Impact

05:10 Adjusting to a New Workout Routine

07:30 Insights from Listening to Your Body

09:51 The Importance of Self-Acceptance in Fitness Routines

11:08 The Mantra “Walk a Little Slower” (by Tanner Olson) and Its Impact

13:10 A Beautiful Prayer Everyone Needs to Hear

15:00 The Value of Knowing You Are More Than Your Achievements

18:11 Taking Up Space: Lessons for Life from Podcasting

21:43 Simple Ways to Take Up Space in Daily Life

26:30 How to Embrace the Season of Waiting

29:30 Shifting Your Focus During Times of Waiting

32:00 Unexpected Blessings: A Friendship Forged on Four Paws

40:00 Why We Are Taking a Summer Break (and You Should Too)

Connect With Us:

Website: https://purple-stars.us

Instagram: @purplestars.world

Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld