Michele Herrmann brings a fun and fascinating perspective to travel by exploring destinations that feel like Halloween all year long. From historic towns steeped in mystery to cities filled with eerie legends and ghostly lore, this conversation dives into the stories behind some of the world’s most spine-tingling places. What I loved most is how Michele blends history, culture, and a sense of adventure—showing that these destinations aren’t just about fear, but about curiosity and storytelling.

We explore places like Salem, New Orleans, Sleepy Hollow, and even international destinations like Transylvania and Ireland, uncovering what makes each one unique beyond just the spooky reputation. Whether you’re someone who loves haunted tours or simply enjoys rich history with a twist, this conversation is a reminder that travel can be both thrilling and deeply meaningful. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:39] – Introduction to Michele Herrmann and her work as a travel journalist

[01:54] – Salem, Massachusetts: history of the witch trials and why it’s worth visiting year-round

[04:27] – New Orleans: haunted tours, cemeteries, and the city’s eerie charm

[06:19] – Sleepy Hollow, New York: literary history and the Great Jack-o’-lantern Blaze

[10:06] – Transylvania: the real history behind Dracula and Romanian folklore

[12:27] – St. Helens, Oregon: filming locations for Twilight and Halloweentown

[15:20] – Savannah, Georgia: haunted tours and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

[16:54] – Charleston, South Carolina: chilling experiences at the old city jail

[18:21] – Anoka, Minnesota: the Halloween Capital of the World and its festive traditions

[20:59] – Island of the Dolls, Mexico: eerie origins and haunting visuals

[21:04] – Ireland: the birthplace of Halloween and its rich cultural traditions

[22:10] – Michele’s advice: don’t wait to travel—life happens while you’re making plans

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If you’ve been dreaming about visiting one of these destinations—or adding a little adventure to your travels—this is your sign to start planning. Share this episode with someone who loves travel, history, or a little bit of mystery, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and review to help others discover these stories.

Amy Bizzarri’s story is a beautiful blend of resilience, curiosity, and the courage to choose a bigger life. From teaching in Chicago classrooms to traveling the world as a writer, Amy has created a life filled with adventure—one that didn’t follow a straight path, but instead unfolded through passion, persistence, and a willingness to say yes to opportunity. What stood out most to me is how she turned even the hardest moments into a catalyst for growth and discovery.

We talk about how a life-changing diagnosis reshaped her perspective and pushed her to finally pursue the dreams she had put on hold. From becoming a real-life mermaid to trekking through Uganda to see gorillas in the wild, Amy shares what it means to live intentionally and fully. This conversation is such a powerful reminder that there is no perfect time to start—you just have to begin. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce Amy and her fascinating life as a teacher, writer, and world traveler

[03:30] – How she began travel writing as a creative outlet alongside teaching

[06:30] – Amy shares her breast cancer diagnosis and how it shifted her perspective on life

[08:00] – Creating a travel bucket list during treatment and learning to pursue dreams now

[09:30] – Becoming a real-life mermaid at Weeki Wachee and embracing reinvention

[12:00] – Her journey as an author and writing books centered on Chicago history and travel

[15:00] – Trekking through Uganda to see gorillas in the wild and the emotional impact of that experience

[18:30] – Driving Route 66 with her kids and why it remains one of her most memorable adventures

[21:22] – Her mantra: “Choose the bigger life” and what it means to live boldly

Links & Resources

• Amy Bizzarri Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amybizzarri/

If this conversation inspired you to dream a little bigger or finally start that list you’ve been putting off, share it with someone who needs that reminder too. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover these stories and step into their own adventures.

Chief Chris Cowan’s journey into law enforcement wasn’t something he planned—it was something he felt called into. Hearing him reflect on the past 30 years, it’s clear that his leadership is rooted in service, faith, and a deep commitment to people. From navigating the challenges of modern policing to building meaningful relationships within the community, Chris brings a perspective that goes beyond enforcement and into transformation.

We talk about what it really takes to lead in today’s environment, how law enforcement is evolving, and why connection, accountability, and communication matter now more than ever. Chris also shares the innovative programs being implemented in his department and how they are creating real impact. This conversation offers a thoughtful, honest look at leadership, service, and the importance of meeting people where they are. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I share a life update and introduce Chief Chris Cowan and his extensive background in law enforcement

[03:11] – Chris reflects on how he found his way into law enforcement through faith and purpose

[04:52] – The biggest challenge in leadership: moving from transactional to relational leadership

[05:56] – How his career has shaped his family and the importance of their support

[08:06] – What motivates him daily and how service, faith, and discipline guide his leadership

[10:25] – Addressing public trust, recent tensions, and the importance of communication between communities and law enforcement

[15:26] – His perspective on criminal justice reform, accountability, and providing real opportunities for those reentering society

[21:37] – The School-to-Squad initiative and creating pathways from education into law enforcement careers

[25:50] – Community-focused programs like 50 Fade Fridays and building relationships through presence and conversation

[28:52] – The Citizen Advisory Committee and how community members are directly involved in decision-making

[32:20] – His advice on leadership: the importance of having a coach and continuing to learn

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PJ Barnes' journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance isn’t just a mindset—it’s a lifestyle. From early days of creativity and storytelling to building a production company and navigating the realities of the entertainment industry, PJ has consistently found ways to create his own opportunities rather than wait for them. His passion for storytelling, teaching, and uplifting others shines through every chapter of his path.

We talk about the highs and lows of pursuing a creative career, what it really takes to keep going when things don’t go as planned, and how one life-changing accident shifted his perspective without stopping his momentum. PJ opens up about resilience, community, and the importance of continuing to create—even in the hardest seasons. His story is honest, motivating, and a true testament to staying the course no matter what. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce PJ and share how our paths crossed through family and the acting community

[00:05:19] – PJ reflects on discovering his love for acting through creativity, storytelling, and performance at a young age

[00:09:04] – How high school and college shaped his passion for film, editing, and producing his own work

[00:10:20] – The journey to Los Angeles, using gift cards for gas, and learning the realities of the industry

[00:14:33] – PJ shares the challenges of acting and why he chose to create his own opportunities through production

[00:18:48] – Transitioning into directing and the realities of bringing a script to life

[00:23:20] – The life-changing car accident and the difficult days that followed

[00:29:07] – The outpouring of support from the community and how it impacted his recovery

[00:30:16] – Choosing to keep creating during recovery and finding purpose through storytelling

[00:31:41] – His latest film All We Got and the process of writing, filming, and producing during the pandemic

[00:39:36] – PJ shares his philosophy on perseverance and why it’s the key to success

• Screw UP TV Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/screwuptv/
• Screw Up TV FB: https://www.facebook.com/SUTVProductions/
• Patreon: https://patreon.com/screwuptv/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Screwuptv2009/videos

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Christina Karis and I share more than just a conversation here—we share roots, similar experiences, and the understanding of what it feels like to grow up in a place where you don’t fully feel like you belong. From the same small Alabama town and even the same high school, we both knew there was something bigger waiting for us, even if we didn’t yet know how to reach it. Watching Christina build a career in film and television has been inspiring, and hearing her reflect on that path makes this conversation especially meaningful.

We talk about identity, worth, imagination, and what it takes to keep saying yes to your dream even when fear, doubt, and old wounds try to convince you otherwise. Christina opens up about her childhood, how acting became both an escape and a calling, and how she’s learned to trust the gifts she’s been given. Her story is honest, grounding, and such a beautiful reminder that the dream in your heart is there for a reason. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce Christina and share why this conversation feels so personal for me, given our shared hometown and similar journey out of it

[00:04:12] – Christina reflects on growing up in a racially divided small town and realizing what those divides meant as she got older

[00:08:38] – She talks about acting as her earliest form of imagination, escape, and self-expression

[00:10:40] – Christina shares what it took to finally say yes to pursuing acting fully and how self-worth played a major role in that journey

[00:12:47] – Landing the role of Dana Wheatley on Law & Order: Organized Crime and why the part felt deeply aligned

[00:14:08] – How this character is helping her discover new parts of herself, especially power, confidence, and presence

[00:15:17] – What it has been like joining a major cast during such an uncertain time and how that created a sense of connection on set

[00:16:40] – The advice she would give her younger self about trusting the opportunities placed in front of her

[00:17:56] – How she hopes to use her influence to build empathy and help people see the humanity in one another

[00:18:53] – The daily creative and meditation practices that help her stay grounded and balanced

[00:19:43] – Christina opens up about branching into writing and producing and listening to the stories that keep calling her

[00:21:48] – Her closing words of wisdom about dreams, perseverance, and why the dream chooses you too

Links & Resources

• Christina IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2458187/

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Marc Howard’s work challenges the way we think about justice, education, and second chances. When I first spent time on Georgetown’s campus and learned more about the Prisons and Justice Initiative, I was struck not only by the impact of the program, but by the humanity at the center of it. Marc has devoted his career to changing lives inside and outside prison walls, and that commitment comes from a deeply personal place.

Our conversation explores how one childhood friendship reshaped the course of his life and led him into criminal justice reform. We talk about the power of education, the need to recognize human potential in nontraditional places, and why creating opportunities for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people matters so deeply. Marc’s perspective is thoughtful, compassionate, and a powerful reminder that transformation is possible when people are truly seen. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce Marc and reflect on how my time at Georgetown helped inspire my own return to school

[00:05:26] – Marc shares the personal story that led him into criminal justice reform: his childhood friend Marty’s wrongful conviction

[00:09:40] – He explains how the Prisons and Justice Initiative began and why teaching inside prisons became life-changing work

[00:13:11] – Marc talks about Joel Castón, his remarkable leadership, and the hope for his release

[00:18:23] – We discuss the “Making an Exoneree” course and how Georgetown students help investigate real wrongful conviction cases

[00:21:14] – Marc reflects on the Pivot Program and why reentry support can completely change the trajectory of someone’s life

[00:23:24] – He shares the story of Trey and why recognizing growth and humanity matters in conversations about incarceration

[00:32:03] – Marc introduces the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice and its mission to humanize incarcerated people through connection

[00:33:59] – What’s next for Marc and why going inside prisons remains the center of his work

[00:35:35] – His closing message on finding and honoring the humanity in everyone

Links & Resources

• Marc Howard: https://www.marcmhoward.com
• Douglass Project: https://www.douglassproject.org

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I came across a short film called Almost Normal and immediately felt drawn to its message. After watching it multiple times, I knew I had to connect with the person behind it. John Austin’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and learning to embrace what makes you different—even when the world doesn’t understand it right away.

In our conversation, John shares what it was like growing up feeling misunderstood, being labeled early on, and struggling to find his place. We talk about the mentors who changed his life, how he discovered his unique ability to speak backwards, and how that “different” trait ultimately became a gift. His journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the very things we’re told are limitations can become our greatest strengths.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce John and share how I discovered his short film Almost Normal

[00:02:15] – John reflects on childhood criticism and feeling like no one believed in him

[00:03:00] – Discovering backward speech by spinning records as a young child

[00:04:00] – Being labeled and struggling in school, eventually leaving traditional high school

[00:08:01] – The moment that changed everything: visiting a movie theater projection room

[00:10:00] – A mentor recognizes his intelligence and encourages him to believe in himself

[00:11:05] – Meeting Ralph and gaining wisdom from another influential mentor

[00:13:16] – His parents’ concerns and misunderstanding of his passion for film

[00:17:16] – Being diagnosed later in life and finally understanding himself

[00:19:34] – The moment he decided to share his backward-speaking talent publicly

[00:22:41] – A defining experience on Germany’s Got Talent and receiving a standing ovation

[00:24:22] – What it means to be different and why embracing it matters

[00:25:05] – Advice for parents of children on the autism spectrum

[00:26:36] – Reflecting on the mentors who believed in him when others didn’t

[00:28:10] – A favorite quote and a powerful reminder about doing the impossible

Links & Resources

• Check out Almost Normal -> https://youtu.be/LKI28BHxv2c
• Backwords Dude: https://www.facebook.com/backwordsdude/

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If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who might need the reminder that being different is not a weakness—it’s a strength. And if you enjoyed listening, don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review. It truly helps these stories reach more people.

Meeting Aspen Heidikrueger through Cancer for College was incredibly special for me, because she was the very first recipient of our family scholarship—and her story is one I will never forget. Aspen was diagnosed with lymphoblastic leukemia at just 13 years old and endured one of the most intense chemotherapy regimens in existence. What she has walked through physically, mentally, and emotionally is hard to even put into words, yet the strength and grace she carries today are nothing short of remarkable.

Our conversation explores the reality of childhood cancer far beyond the diagnosis itself. Aspen shares what treatment did to her body, how it impacted her mental health, what survivorship really looks like, and why she now uses her voice to advocate for other young cancer survivors. She is thoughtful, honest, and deeply inspiring, and I know her words will stay with you long after you listen.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – I introduce Aspen and share how Cancer for College connected our families through the Old Family Scholarship

[00:02:34] – Aspen walks through the first symptoms that led to the doctor’s appointment that changed everything

[00:04:17] – She reflects on being diagnosed with leukemia at 13 and what that moment felt like

[00:05:29] – Aspen shares what happened after her first dose of chemotherapy and the terrifying reaction her body had

[00:07:43] – She explains the intensity of her treatment plan and why her chemotherapy was especially severe

[00:10:42] – We talk about how childhood cancer affected friendships and what support can really look like for young patients

[00:11:43] – Aspen opens up about how chemotherapy contributed to an eating disorder and the struggle to recognize what was happening

[00:13:57] – Her mother is diagnosed with breast cancer during Aspen’s final months of treatment

[00:15:08] – Aspen describes how she felt when she finally finished chemotherapy—and why relief wasn’t the emotion that came

[00:16:35] – She shares her experience with anxiety, depression, and PTSD after treatment ended

[00:18:36] – We talk about the long-term physical effects of chemotherapy and the new medical battles that followed survivorship

[00:20:01] – Aspen explains how she found Cancer for College and why that support changed her future

[00:21:03] – She talks about school, advocacy, and her incredible volunteer work with wolves and wildlife

[00:22:06] – Aspen shares what’s next, including writing, advocacy, and her hopes for making a difference for other survivors

[00:24:58] – She leaves us with a powerful quote about choosing to keep living through pain

Links & Resources

• Complicated Cancer: https://complicatedcancer.com/
• TikTok: @theaspenleaf
• Facebook:   @complicatedcancer
• Instagram: @theaspenleaf
• Cancer for College: https://cancerforcollege.org/

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If this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who needs hope or who may be walking through a difficult season. And if you enjoyed listening, don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people find these stories.

Jackson Snelling is already making a powerful impact through his music—and at just 18 years old, his story carries depth far beyond his years. From stepping onto the American Idol stage to earning Video of the Year in Nashville, he’s quickly building a name for himself as both an artist and a storyteller.

In this conversation, I explore how his life experiences have shaped his music in such a meaningful way. Jackson opens up about growing up alongside his brother, navigating life with autism, and the profound loss of his father at a young age. We also talk about the emotional stories behind his songs and how he’s using his voice to bring awareness, healing, and connection to others.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – Introducing Jackson and his recent success, including American Idol and his award-winning music video

[00:01:10] – What it felt like walking into his American Idol audition after multiple attempts

[00:01:57] – Growing up with his brother Dawson and how music and sign language became a way to connect

[00:03:16] – Jackson shares his personal journey with autism and learning to embrace it

[00:04:42] – Losing his father at a young age and how it deeply impacted his life

[00:06:17] – How music became his outlet for processing emotions and finding balance

[00:06:53] – The story behind “Please Listen” and how it was written in an emotional moment

[00:08:44] – The inspiration behind “If I Only Knew” and honoring a friend lost to suicide

[00:09:00] – The powerful impact of bringing together families affected by suicide for the music video

[00:10:47] – Jackson’s message of hope for anyone going through difficult times

[00:11:14] – His perspective on mental health and the importance of reaching out

[00:11:39] – What’s next: new music, performances, and future opportunities

Links & Resources

• Website: https://jacksonsnelling.com

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If you enjoyed this conversation, share it with someone who loves meaningful music and powerful stories. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps these stories reach more people and continue making an impact. 

Dayvee Sutton has built a career that blends storytelling, travel, and purpose in a way that is both inspiring and deeply intentional. From her early days working in radio to earning national Emmys and becoming a trusted travel expert across major networks, her journey is a powerful reminder that success rarely follows a straight path.

In this conversation, I reflect on how our paths first crossed and the impact she had on my own journey, while also exploring how she carved out her own space in a competitive industry. We talk about resilience, creating opportunities when doors don’t open, and the importance of believing in your vision—even when the path ahead isn’t clear. 

Episode Highlights

[00:00:38] – Introducing Dayvee and her impressive career across major networks and platforms

[00:02:07] – Reflecting on how our paths first crossed and the importance of taking initiative

[00:05:07] – Dayvee shares how her love for storytelling and travel began in childhood

[00:07:34] – Her college experience at UCLA and how her path unfolded from there

[00:08:30] – Breaking into the broadcast industry and navigating early career challenges

[00:12:48] – Embracing personality traits like being an “extroverted introvert” in the industry

[00:13:26] – A powerful and complex travel experience in Israel that left a lasting impact

[00:16:04] – Why it’s important to say your dreams out loud and not let fear hold you back

[00:18:54] – Practical advice for anyone wanting to get started in media or storytelling

[00:19:17] – A meaningful quote about love and connection that continues to guide her

[00:19:45] – What’s next: new projects, courses, and expanding her travel brand

Links & Resources

Dayvee Sutton Website: http://www.dayveesutton.com

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If this conversation inspired you to take a step toward your own dreams, share it with someone who needs that encouragement. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps these stories reach more people and continue making an impact.