In this episode of Wisdom for Wannabes, host Jackie Morreale interviews artist Zena Frey, who shares her artistic journey from Montreal to New York City. Zena discusses her passion for art, the influence of her family, and the importance of authenticity in her work. She also talks about her recent e-commerce launch, her inspirations, and the significance of community in the art world. Zena emphasizes the importance of following one's heart in art and life, encouraging others to embrace their creative journeys.

Takeaways:

• Zena Frey is an artist and illustrator from Montreal, now based in New York.

• Art is an integral part of life, often unnoticed.

• The journey of creating art is fulfilling and meditative.

• Family support plays a crucial role in pursuing artistic passions.

• Zena's favorite artist is Toulouse-Lautrec, whose work inspires her.

• She believes in the importance of vintage aesthetics in her art.

• Zena recently launched her e-commerce website to sell her artwork.

• Community and connection with other artists are vital for growth.

• Age should not be a barrier to pursuing one's passions.

• Authenticity in art leads to true fulfillment.

Quotes:

• "Don't paint for your audience."

• "Just do it. Take the plunge."

• "The journey is the best."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Zena Fry

01:10 Zena's Artistic Journey

03:57 The Essence of Being an Artist

08:09 Influences and Inspirations

12:11 Artistic Techniques and Styles

13:47 Launching the Website

17:00 The Process of Creation

20:39 Embracing Age and New Beginnings

23:03 The Art of Fashion and Inspiration

24:05 Upcoming Shows and Community Engagement

25:54 Creative Process and Authenticity

26:38 Aesthetic and Vintage Influence

28:38 Sourcing Vintage Frames and Materials

30:43 Quality and Craftsmanship in Art

31:26 Mentorship and Influences

34:52 Advice for Aspiring Artists

36:15 Future Collections and Artistic Growth

37:55 Embracing Change and Personal Identity

The conversation touches on the **art process**, **creativity**, happiness, and the wisdom she has gained as a **female artist** over the years. This **interview** provides **inspiration** and a glimpse into the world of **visual art** and **contemporary art**.

Jackie Morreale, host of Wisdom for Wannabes, is excited to announce she is now a published *writer**! As an author and illustrator, her debut **picture book* is called 'Princess Tessa Meets Luke the Duke'. She shares her creative process and gives viewers a peek into her **storytime for kids**.

Now in ebook and paperbook on Amazon: Princess Tessa Meets Luc the Duke: A Tale of Sisterly Love for a New Baby Brother. Perfect gift for princesses/princes who are becoming big siblings! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FP26ZM3N/

Takeaways:

• Jackie Morreale is the host of Wisdom for Wannabes.

• She has fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming an author.

• The book is titled 'Princess Tessa meets Luc the Duke.'

• It is a tale of sisterly love for a new baby brother.

• The book is appropriate for children ages four through eight.

• The story is based on real-life adventures and creative fiction.

• Jackie encourages others to explore their creativity through art.

• The book's dedication is to her children and family.

• Tessa's character embodies the challenges of becoming a big sister.

• The book is available in eBook and paperback formats.

Quotes:

• "This story has been on my mind for many years."

• "A baby is a gift from God."

• "Principessa mia, come meet your baby brother."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom for Wannabes

00:16 The Journey to Becoming an Author

01:24 Reading Princess Tessa Meets Luke the Duke

08:13 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this engaging conversation, Jackie Morreale interviews Reverend  @joeiadanza , a contemporary spiritual teacher, and wedding officiant and owner of @Long Island Wedding Officiants. Joe shares his journey from a musician to a reverend, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness in his life and work. He discusses memorable weddings, the impact of his family heritage, and the significance of the Hidden Treasure Program in his spiritual growth. Joe also highlights the role of yoga in community healing and offers advice for couples on communication and forgiveness. The conversation concludes with Joe's aspirations for future creative projects, including a book and new music.

Takeaways:

• Joe's passion in life is forgiveness, which shapes his work and interactions.

• He has officiated over a thousand weddings, finding joy in each unique love story.

• The importance of communication and forgiveness in maintaining a healthy marriage.

• Joe's journey to becoming a reverend was influenced by his experiences in the Hidden Treasure Program.

• He emphasizes the need for personal growth and self-reflection in spiritual development.

• Music has been a vital outlet for Joe, helping him process emotions and experiences.

• The Hidden Treasure Program taught Joe to question everything and look at life through a new lens.

• Yoga and community healing are essential components of Joe's work with United We Aum.

• Joe believes that everyone has the potential for creativity, regardless of their background.

• He expresses a desire to write a book and create new music, seeking inspiration through retreats.

Quotes:

• "My passion is forgiveness."

• "Yoga can be healing for trauma."

• "I need a retreat."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Joe Iadanza

01:17 The Journey to Becoming a Wedding Officiant

03:16 Passion for Forgiveness and Spiritual Counseling

05:20 Memorable Weddings and Personal Connections

07:44 Quickfire Questions: Personal Insights

09:19 Family Legacy and Spiritual Influences

13:21 Exploring Spiritual Connections and Community

15:04 Journey Through Seminary and Personal Growth

17:43 Key Learnings from Seminary Experience

19:20 The Hidden Treasure Program and Its Impact

24:59 Becoming a Reverend and the Church of Ancient Ways

30:01 The Journey to Becoming an Officiant

30:19 Connecting with Couples: The Art of Officiating

32:01 Advice for Newlyweds: Communication and Forgiveness

33:22 Lessons from Long-Married Couples

33:32 The Role of Forgiveness in Relationships

34:06 The Intersection of Music and Personal Growth

35:30 The Creative Process: Writing Music

36:53 Bringing Music and Creativity into Life

38:53 Yoga and Healing: The United We Aum Initiative

42:48 Acknowledging Influences: Gratitude and Reflection

44:35 Future Aspirations: Writing a Book and New Projects

In this episode, Jackie Morreale interviews Reverend Joe Iadanza about **spirituality** in everyday life. They discuss finding **inner peace** through reflection and offer **spiritual support** for listeners. Morreale and Iadanza also touch on the importance of **self development** and **awareness** in achieving personal growth.

Join Jackie Morreale and Reverend Joe Iadanza as they explore themes of **self improvement** and **personal growth**, offering a **motivational** perspective on finding **inspiration** in everyday life. They discuss practical advice for fostering **inner critic** and achieving a more fulfilling existence.

In this 7th interview for Wisdom for Wannabes, host Jackie Morreale interviews Professor Melissa Andrade Costa, a dedicated educator and philosopher, and professor of philosophy with ‪@NewAcropolisUS‬ New Acropolis USA and ‪@NovaAcropole‬ North Brasil (Brasilia). They discuss Melissa's journey into philosophy, her passion for teaching, and the importance of connecting high ideals to everyday life. The conversation explores the role of philosophy in personal growth, the significance of dialogue, and practical advice for integrating philosophical practices into daily routines. Melissa shares insights on the challenges of adulthood, the value of learning from experiences, and the importance of community in the pursuit of wisdom. Takeaways:

• Professor Melissa Andrade Costa emphasizes the importance of connecting high ideals to everyday life.

• Philosophy can serve as a tool for personal growth and societal change.

• Engaging in dialogue is crucial for understanding and evolving as individuals.

• Experiencing both joy and pain is part of the learning process.

• Being aware and present in daily life enhances our experiences.

• Learning from others, including their mistakes, accelerates personal development.

• Humility is essential for continuous learning and growth.

• Excellence in whatever we do brings fulfillment and joy.

• Philosophy should be approached with both reason and intuition.

• Community and belonging are vital in the journey of self-improvement.

Quotes:

• "We can learn from everyone."

• "It's a matter of attitude."

• "We need to belong as well."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom for Wannabes

01:43 Professor Melissa Andrade Costa's Background

03:52 Passion for Philosophy and Education

05:11 Personal Insights and Quickfire Questions

06:44 Philosophical Influences and Favorite Texts

09:40 Educational Background and Its Impact

13:20 Role in International Organizations

14:51 Bridging Philosophy and Daily Life

18:37 Encountering New Acropolis

21:02 Becoming a Philosophy Teacher

22:44 The Journey of Self-Discovery

26:10 Philosophy in Daily Life

31:26 Practical Philosophy Practices

34:18 Embracing Life's Challenges

37:21 Getting Started with Philosophy

43:22 Future Aspirations and Collaborations

Jackie Morreale welcomes Professor Melissa Andrade-Costa to discuss *philosophy**. They explore the value of **self improvement* through philosophical study, and how it can be applied to everyday life. Morreale values the *ancient philosophy* found in timeless texts to help people become a *deep thinker* and improve their **mindset**.

In this episode, Jackie interviews Professor Melissa Andrade-Costa about *philosophy of life* and other *big ideas**. The guest shares her insights on **stoicism* and how to achieve *inner peace**. It's a **deep dive* into philosophical concepts applicable to daily living.

In this episode of Wisdom for Wannabes, Jackie Morreale discusses the challenges of fitting in, especially during the back-to-school transition. She reflects on her own experiences with self-doubt and the importance of growth through discomfort. Jackie offers valuable advice for middle schoolers, emphasizing the significance of belonging, being present, and embracing one's individuality. She encourages listeners to find their community, not sweat the small stuff, and enjoy the journey of personal development. These six areas of advice apply to not only starting middle school or a graduate degree program, but also to anyone starting a new role, business venture, or chapter in their life.This message has been lovingly made, and (thankfully) approved by my daughter. Go girl!Takeaways:• The transition back to school can be challenging for both parents and children.• Self-doubt about fitting in is a common experience at any age.• Growth often comes from discomfort and challenges.• Creativity can be a powerful outlet for frustration and anxiety.• You belong in the spaces you occupy; trust your journey.• Being present is crucial for personal development.• Embrace your uniqueness and let it shine.• Building a supportive community starts with being a good friend.• Don't let small setbacks overshadow your progress.• Enjoy the journey of growth and learning.Quotes:• "You belong here."• "Keep going."• "You got this."Chapters: 00:00 Navigating the Journey of Fit04:14 Words of Wisdom for Middle Schoolers, especially my daughter!08:35 Embracing the Journey Ahead

In this Wisdom for Wannabes voice note, host Jackie Morreale reflects on the concept of fit, both in clothing and in life. She shares a personal story about an old suit that no longer fits her, prompting a deeper discussion about how our clothing choices reflect our personal growth and aspirations. Jackie emphasizes the importance of understanding apparel fit standards and how they relate to our self-image. She also explores the evolution of personal style and the need to reassess our roles and goals in life, encouraging listeners to consider what truly fits them as they strive for growth and fulfillment.

Dedicated to Susan P. Ashdown, PhD, fashion industry fit expert and Emerita Professor at Cornell University's Department of Human Centered Design.

Chapters

00:00 The Suit That No Longer Fits

02:04 Understanding Apparel Fit

04:18 The Evolution of Personal Style

06:19 Fit Beyond Clothing: Career Aspirations

In this 6th interview of Wisdom for Wannabes, host Jackie Morreale interviews Susan P. Ashdown PhD, a renowned expert in the field of apparel design and fit technology. They discuss Professor Ashdown’s journey from a small town in North Carolina to becoming an emerita professor at Cornell University's College of Human Ecology, Human Centered Design department, in Ithaca, New York, and soon to be role as an adjunct professor at Ontario College of Art & Design⁩  in Toronto, Canada. They also discussed her passion for making and designing, and the challenges she faced in her educational journey, including dyslexia. The conversation delves into the evolution of apparel design, the impact of technology on fit and customization, and the pressing need for sustainability in the fashion industry. Professor Ashdown shares her insights on research, the importance of learning how to learn, and her current passion for stained glass art, highlighting the creative process that drives her work.Takeaways:• Susan P. Ashdown, PhD emphasizes the importance of hands-on making in design.• The transition from ready-to-wear to custom clothing is essential for fit.• Education should focus on learning how to learn, not just acquiring knowledge.• Dyslexia can be a challenge, but it can also be a superpower.• Theater arts provide a unique foundation for understanding apparel design.• Sustainability in fashion is crucial to combat fast fashion's impact.• Technology can aid in creating better fitting clothing.• Community support is vital for local seamstresses and custom clothing.• Research in fashion requires persistence and adaptability.• Artistic pursuits, like stained glass, can provide relaxation and inspiration.Great Quotes:• "I consider myself a maker."• "I love draping."• "Ready-to-wear can't work."Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Susan Ashdown01:18 The Journey of a Maker03:43 The Evolution of Apparel Fit05:37 Personal Insights and Inspirations07:24 Education and Overcoming Challenges08:48 Transitioning to Academia10:43 The Role of Mentorship12:46 The Importance of Apparel Engineering14:44 The Future of Apparel Fit Technology16:56 Reflections on Family and Relationships19:09 The Evolution of Academic Departments19:23 Key Learnings from Childhood19:23 Theater and Costume Design Challenges20:45 The Importance of Collaboration in Creative Fields21:29 Creating Your Own Educational Journey22:44 Path to Academia: Becoming a Professor at Cornell25:43 Passion for Teaching: The Art of Draping26:59 Research Journey: Fit Technology and Body Scanning30:40 Sustainability in Fashion: The Case Against Ready-to-Wear35:11 Publishing Research: Tips for New Scholars38:03 New Ventures: Stained Glass Art and Community Engagement

In this voice note,  @wisdomforwannabes  podcast host Jackie Morreale shares her thoughts on the study of **philosophy** with  New Acropolis USA and how it relates to the challenges faced in every day life. This course is for **deep thinkers** and the book list offer insights into the complexities of **human nature** as it relates to deep thought and intelligence.

Jackie Morreale describes in her own words Plato's Allegory of the Cave, as an example of learnings from this course, from Plato's Republic book first published around 380 BC. The Allegory of the Cave alludes to our ability to break free from barriers of society, see the light, and teach others in words that they can understand, to show leadership and create change.

Jackie Morreale introduces her podcast, sharing the **philosophy of life** she learned studying with New Acropolis USA. She values the **ancient philosophy** found in timeless texts, and the **deep thinker** community fostered by the program. Find out more about philosophy today!

More at: Wisdom for Wannabes: A podcast series hosted by Jackie Morreale - Blog

In this engaging Interview 5 for Wisdom for Wannabes podcast series, host Jackie Morreale interviews Laura Hoffman, a clairvoyant healer and intuitive wellness coach, and business owner behind Laura’s Intuitive Wellness at lauraheals.com. They discuss Laura's journey into healing, her new book 'Sacred Alignment', and practical techniques for personal transformation. Laura shares insights on the healing process, the importance of grounding, and advice for aspiring healers and entrepreneurs. The conversation concludes with Laura's future projects, including a PhD in Metaphysical science, clairvoyant development school, and a charity for women in need.Takeaways• Laura's journey into healing began with her own personal transformation after a divorce.• She blends various modalities including Reiki, energy work, and coaching in her practice.• Grounding techniques are essential for maintaining balance and clarity in daily life.• Her book 'Sacred Alignment' aims to simplify spirituality and healing for readers.• Daily spiritual hygiene rituals can significantly improve one's well-being.• Trusting and believing in one's healing abilities is crucial for aspiring healers.• Laura emphasizes the importance of practice in developing healing skills.• She plans to create a clairvoyant development school to teach others.• Laura is also working on a memoir to share her personal story.• Her future projects include a charity to support disadvantaged women.Sound Bites• "What you seek is seeking you."• "Healing is all about practice."• "You’ve just got to go for it."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Laura Hoffman and Her Journey05:00 The Healing Process and Client Transformations10:00 The Writing Journey: Sacred Alignment15:00 Practical Healing Techniques and Daily Practices20:00 Advice for Aspiring Healers and Entrepreneurs25:00 Future Projects and Closing ThoughtsIn this episode, Laura Hoffman shares insights on **health and wellness**, providing valuable **health tips** and **wellness tips** for daily life. She touches upon the importance of **self-care** and promotes the **pursuit of wellness** for a balanced lifestyle. Tune in for practical advice to improve your overall well-being!

In this voice note and mini research study, Wisdom for Wannabes podcast host Jackie Morreale discusses the importance of our energy on our interactions, particularly during the #summer season. She reflects on a note she found at her children's school that emphasizes the idea of matching energy with others. Through a social experiment, she explores how positivity can be contagious and how our energy affects those around us. The conversation encourages self-reflection on the energy we bring into different spaces and the impact itcan have on our interactions.

Takeaways:

• Energy is contagious and can affect our interactions.
• Self-reflection on the energy we bring is crucial.
• Positivity can lead to a chain reaction in social settings.
• A simple greeting can change the energy of a space.
• The majority of people will mirror our positive energy.
• Acknowledging others' positive energy encourages them to continue.
• Administrative professionals play a vital role in creating a positive environment.
• We often get caught up in our own worlds and forget to connect with others.
• Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact.
• Bringing light and positivity into our interactions is essential.

Chapters:

00:00 Summer Reflections and Energy Matching

02:24 Self-Reflection on Energy in Spaces

04:03 Social Experiment: Spreading Positivity

06:45 Insights from the Experiment and Conclusion