It may be true that the best things in life aren’t things…. Things have a way of holding onto the memories of some of the best things in life. Join me as I invite guests to share the stories of the Things that matter to them. Show & Tales was “born” in the backroom of Branded Saloon in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn a decade ago. 160+ S&T’ later I’ve never tired of listening to the stories of the THINGS that matter. About me: I’m a personal historian/visual artist who creates visual narratives from my client’s photo, document & memorabilia archives. In other words, I tell stories with other people’s stuff.I’m also an interactive story-sharing heartist who helps people create connections by holding space for them to share the stories of the Things that Matter. What photo or object do you hold dear? Building connections one story of stuff at a time.
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Episode 53: Exploring Grief, Legacy, and her Personal Museum: A Conversation with Dr. Karen Kramer
jeudi 29 janvier 2026 • Durée 24:12
It was a sunny afternoon when Martie McNabb welcomed Dr. Karen Kramer onto her popular show, Things That Matter. The virtual studio was set up, mug in hand, and the air was tinged with curiosity and connection. Martie, ever passionate about the ways our cherished objects reveal the truths of our lives, caught up with Karen after their brief encounter at the 2nd Annual Grief Awareness and Education Conference in Hartford CT.
As the conversation began, Martie reflected on the heart of her work: “It’s never really the thing itself that matters, but the stories we weave around them—how they become threads to our past, our loves, and our grief.” She introduced Karen with warmth, inviting her to “show and tell” like it was elementary school all over again.
Karen beamed as she revealed her treasured item—one she’d owned since the age of eight: a pair of poi balls picked up during a formative family trip to Hawaii. She recounted her awkward, wonder-filled attempt to master the Maori-inspired dance and how that moment blossomed into a lifelong passion for Polynesian dance—a journey that ultimately shaped her health, identity, and career. With a touch of humor, she tried to demonstrate the poi balls in her small space, dodging her cat, Strawberry who had "pulled up a chair" to be part of the interview.
Martie was instantly captivated. “I’ve never had a dancer bring in such an unusual accessory!” she exclaimed. Their shared laughter bridged parallels in their lives—both had found deep joy in dance and movement, and both understood how such passions anchor us during times of change.
The discussion naturally shifted to Karen’s work as a grief alchemist and hypnotherapist. “Grief is everywhere,” Karen said. “It’s not just about death—it’s in the changes, the transitions, even in the birthdays and numbers on a scale.” She explained how her work, including her book Healthy Grief and a new Oracle card deck, helps people process both visible and invisible losses. Karen emphasized the danger of toxic positivity, and how important it is to acknowledge pain before hope can take root.
Martie nodded in agreement, grateful for the clarity Karen brought to the conversation, and noted how our homes—all the things we hold onto—are personal museums filled with stories often left untold. She encouraged listeners to share the stories of the Things that matter to them now, so their meaning wouldn’t be lost to time.
As the episode drew to a close, both women felt the quiet power of what they’d uncovered together: Every ordinary object—and every grief—tells an extraordinary story if only we take the time to listen and share.
To learn more about Dr. Karen Kramer & her important healing work visit & connect with her here:
https://drkarenkramer.com/ ; https://www.thevillavision.com/ ; https://www.facebook.com/DrKarenKramer ; https://www.instagram.com/drkarenkramer ; https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkarenkramer/
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants?
Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨ If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell?
Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 52: From Downsizing to Story-Sharing: How Objects Connect Jolynn Baca Jaekel to Her Heritage
jeudi 15 janvier 2026 • Durée 30:54
Martie McNabb settled into her seat, the sunlight spilling across her cozy workspace in Albuquerque where she first met today's guest. She glanced over the Zoom screen at Jolynn Baca Jaekel, whose energy and warmth always seemed to fill any room she entered. Today’s conversation was set to be a meaningful one; as the host of "Things That Matter," Martie loves exploring the personal stories behind the objects people chose to keep close.
"Jolynn," Martie began, smiling, "I’ve been looking forward to this. You always bring so much light to these conversations. I know you’ve had quite a year helping your parents sort through their lifetime of memories. How did you start deciding what stays and what goes?"
Jolynn nodded, her eyes shining at the mention of family. "It was a big exercise in soul searching, honestly. My parents and I realized quickly some things mattered a little, some a lot—and some we just had to let go of. It pushed me to think about why we hold onto certain objects and what letting go really means."
Martie leaned in, curious. "Was there anything in particular that stood out to you in this personal process?"
With a gentle laugh, Jolynn pointed to a small, shimmering golden tree positioned beside her. "Absolutely. This is my grandmother’s jewelry tree—a piece I had made with help from a friend who designs jewelry. My grandmother’s costume jewelry, most of it not worth much except to us, and my own pieces from over the years are all part of this tree. At its heart is a brooch set with the birthstones of all her grandkids."
Martie’s eyes widened in appreciation. "That’s beautiful, Jolynn. So it’s more than just an object—it’s a celebration of your grandmother, your family, and yourself. Do you think that’s what makes certain things matter? The stories attached to them?"
Jolynn nodded. "Exactly. It reminds me every day of the strength of the women I come from—my grandmother, my mother, me, and now my daughter. That tree is more than just jewelry—it’s a daily reminder that I can do hard things and I’m not alone."
Martie smiled, the gears of her own memory turning. "You know, I think that’s the reason people sometimes struggle with passing things down. It’s not just about what the object is, it’s about what it means. Do you have thoughts on what should happen to the tree after you’re gone?"
Jolynn considered the question thoughtfully. "I do. At first, I thought maybe my daughter wouldn’t want it because she never met my grandmother. But the tree represents our whole lineage—and I want her to have the choice. If it speaks to her, she’s welcome to keep it. And if not? At least she’ll know the story behind it, and that might be enough."
Martie’s matter-of-fact tone matched Jolynn’s. "And that’s what we’re all about here, isn’t it? Making sure the stories stay alive, even if the things themselves eventually move on."
Jolynn nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "Absolutely. And that’s something I carry into my work now—my journal, ‘It’s Your Day,’ is all about helping people celebrate the small wins and document their stories. And I’m launching a podcast soon to highlight women who do things their own way—solving problems, creating businesses, making bold moves without asking for permission."
Martie gave Jolynn a warm look. "You’ve found a way to keep those stories alive and empower others to do the same. Thanks for sharing a piece of your family’s story, and for reminding us that it’s the meaning—and the memories—that make things matter."
With that, Martie and Jolynn closed out their conversation, both filled with gratitude for the tangible connections to their past—and the stories that keep legacies alive.
To connect with this beautiful human follow her at jbacaj on Instagram and Jolynn Baca Jaekel on Facebook. Keep an eye out for her upcoming podcast: Doing It Her Way.
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants?
Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨ If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell?
Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Introducing Martifacts: Martie McNabb’s Personal Stories Behind the Things She Keeps
jeudi 1 janvier 2026 • Durée 15:30
For over three years, I’ve been hosting the Things That Matter podcast and YouTube channel—listening to countless people share stories about the objects that hold meaning in their lives. But until now, I realized I’d never really opened up about the things I keep, the things that matter to me personally. That’s why I started “Martifacts”—a special new segment where I finally share my own treasures and their stories with all of you.
One of my favorite rituals over the last decade has been inviting people to in-person and virtual events reminiscent of elementary school show and tell. I’ve never tired of the conversations—over 400 events!—and each story reminds me how our homes become personal museums, full of objects we’ve chosen or inherited. But now it’s time to switch roles and tell you about my own collection.
One chapter of my story happened about eight years ago when I made the difficult decision to sell my Brooklyn apartment after 18 years. New York had given me so much, and I loved every bit of city life, but things were getting harder financially and logistically, and I felt the pull to go on a new adventure. That’s when I decided to try van life as a way to explore new places and find my next home—and yes, I named my van “Brooklyn” as a tribute.
Before setting out on the road, everyone told me I needed a travel companion. While a dog was the popular suggestion, I knew from my own experience (and my mom’s anxious nature) that worrying about a pet might ruin the journey. Then, in a delightful coincidence, I received a package from my favorite quirky small business, Blue Q. Inside was a funny cardboard cutout cat, inspired by the family saying, “the only good cat is a flat cat.” I decided to name her Flatsy the flat cat, and she quickly became my perfect travel companion—worry-free and a constant source of joy as she journeyed thousands of miles with me across the country.
Now I’m excited for the next phase: starting in spring 2026, I’ll be doing regular LIVES to share not just my stories but yours as well. Maybe you’ll join me LIVE for an episode of “Martifacts and Other Things That Matter” and tell me about the objects that have shaped your life. Thanks for coming along with me on this unusual—and very personal—episode.
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch Here:
Or Listen Here:
Episode 51: Exploring Grief, Legacy, and Healing with Wy Woods Harris
jeudi 18 décembre 2025 • Durée 24:22
In this episode of Things That Matter, host Martie McNabb sits down with nurse, grief facilitator, and author Wy Woods Harris for a deeply meaningful conversation about love, loss, and legacy. The two first connected during the early days of the pandemic through Let’s Reimagine, a space dedicated to open conversations around grief, death, and healing—making this reunion especially powerful.
Wy shares the story of one of the most meaningful objects in her life: her late husband’s urn, adorned with butterflies chosen together as a symbol of transformation and hope. Their conversation explores the importance of having honest, proactive discussions about end-of-life wishes, cremation options, and what happens to our most sacred belongings—especially in blended families. Wy offers practical wisdom drawn from both her professional experience and personal loss, emphasizing the relief and clarity that written instructions can provide loved ones during times of grief.
The episode also touches on storytelling as a form of legacy, including Wy’s published books and collaborative writing projects that preserve the voices and memories of those she loves. Together, Martie and Wy reflect on how stories—whether shared through objects, words, or rituals—allow us to keep people close even after they are gone.
This conversation is a heartfelt reminder to treasure the people we love, put our wishes in writing, and continue telling the stories behind the things that matter most.
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-thing...
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 50: The Power of Repair: Aging, Healing, and Things That Matter with Jeanette Leardi
jeudi 4 décembre 2025 • Durée 21:10
As the afternoon sunlight streamed softly into my mom’s basement—a place filled with stories tucked into objects on every shelf—I sat ready for another episode of "Things That Matter." Surrounding myself with the things we collect, inherit, and adore, I welcomed my guest, Jeanette Leardi, whose inspiring work in aging and intergenerational connections had first caught my eye on LinkedIn.
I kicked off the conversation with my favorite question: “Jeanette, what’s a thing that truly matters to you?” She smiled, reached behind her Zoom screen, and held up a small Chinese vase. Its elegant form was interrupted by delicate cracks, the traces of a story she was eager to tell.
“I’m 73, and I want people to declare their age, not hide it,” Jeanette Leardi began. “Forty years ago, my best friend sent me this vase. It arrived in pieces, but I decided on New Year's Eve to put it back together. The cracks aren’t flaws—they’re reminders of the process of repair.”
As she spoke, I saw the vase differently: it wasn’t only a keepsake but a symbol of a challenging, healing process. Jeanette Leardi shared how that evening shaped her perspective on life, inspiring a blog post (link below) years later about four daily actions: creating, maintaining, repairing, and letting go.
We talked about how not just objects, but our experiences, can always be mended and treasured. The conversation drifted to ideas from Japanese art—how imperfection elevates meaning, how bones heal stronger—and landed on the profound truth that our society overlooks the beauty and potential in aging.
“With this vase, the legacy isn’t the item itself,” Jeanette Leardi explained. “It’s the lesson. If anyone hearing this applies the process of repair to their own life, that’s the real gift I’d love to leave behind.”
I was struck by the matter-of-factness in her voice and the clarity of her mission. Through keynotes, workshops, and her book, Aging Sideways (link below), she urges us all to rethink aging—not just as something to survive, but as a right, a privilege, and a chapter full of a different kind of "productivity" perhaps and some wisdom too.
As we wrapped up, I encouraged listeners to pause and look around. What do you keep close, and why? What stories do your objects tell about creativity, maintenance, repair, or letting go?
“Thanks for sharing your story, Jeanette,” I said. “You remind us that the process matters—sometimes even more than the thing itself.”
And as the episode ended, I felt grateful for this reminder that the real museum we build aren't just collections of things, but of the stories and repairs that shape our lives.
Here is the Ageful Living blog post (mentioned above) about creating, maintaining, repairing, and letting go: https://www.jeanetteleardi.com/post/how-should-we-change-aging-in-2015
To learn more about my incredible guest, social gerontologist & her important book visit: https://www.jeanetteleardi.com/aging-sideways-book
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-thing...
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 49: Exploring Life’s Journey Through Library Cards with Ted Cragg
jeudi 13 novembre 2025 • Durée 28:09
Martie McNabb settled into her favorite chair, the one that cradled her through countless conversations, and smiled as the camera started rolling. Across the video feed, Ted Cragg seemed right at home, surrounded by art and little mementos—a fitting backdrop for an episode of "Things That Matter."
“Welcome, Ted!” Martie greeted him. “I always love to begin with how I met my guests. Your journey to this chair started through our mutual ties to Location Indie, Camp Indie & the Everything Conference in Minneapolis, MN ... AND me stopping by on my way back to Vermont from Summer School at The Old School in Montreal!"
Ted laughed, his eyes lighting up with the memory. “Absolutely. It was a real treat to connect, and now here I am, ready to share something a bit unexpected.”
Martie leaned in, always intrigued by what people brought for show-and-tell. “So Ted, what have you brought for us today?”
Ted showed his 1st library ... well really video membership card and began to fan out a handful of library cards. “This is my accidental collection. Library cards from all over the world—Canada, England, Australia. When I look at these, I see my life mapped out in places I tried to call home, if only for a while.”
Martie grinned. “I love that—a timeline told in paper & plastic. Did you always visit libraries as a kid?”
“Oh yeah, all the time. And as I traveled, especially before widespread Wi-Fi, libraries became my connection to the world. You didn’t get a library card for a weekend visit; it meant you were trying to put down roots, at least for a stretch.”
As Ted described each card, Martie listened closely. There was one from Peterborough, Ontario, where he grew up, and even one from a video rental store called Ted’s Place (another way to travel & his namesake). Each card—a physical ticket to another chapter in Ted’s adventurous life.
“I notice you collect selectively. What do these cards mean when you think about your legacy?” Martie asked gently.
Ted nodded, thoughtful. “I don’t want my kids to feel burdened by my stuff. But maybe these cards, with their stories, can trace my journey. If the stories matter to them, they can keep the cards, or just the memory.”
Martie reflected on her own philosophy—things she keeps must have a purpose, or a story and ideally both. “If you share the stories, maybe the things themselves aren’t as important. Sometimes a photograph or a recording—like today—can be enough.”
As the conversation circled toward its close, Martie invited Ted to share his own work. “Let my listeners and watchers know—what are you up to when you’re not collecting library cards?”
Ted smiled. “I produce podcasts—Quick Edit Podcasts, to be exact. I thrive on variety and helping others get their stories out there, much like what we’re doing now.”
Martie wrapped up with her signature encouragement. “Everyone, think about the things you surround yourself with—the stories they tell, and share them. Stories connect us, build community, and who knows—maybe change the world in small ways.”
As the episode came to a close, the library cards, scattered on Ted’s desk, seemed to glow a little brighter, their stories remembered & shared.
To learn more about Ted's work visit: https://quickeditpodcasts.com/ & connect with this lovely human here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedcragg/
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 48: A Ring’s Unbelievable Journey Out of Bergen-Belsen & Into Artist Judi Varnai Aronson’s Life
jeudi 16 octobre 2025 • Durée 21:17
In these dark times, where some people are trying to erase history, telling our stories is an act of resistance.
“Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of Things That Matter,” she began with her trademark warmth. “Today, I have the privilege of speaking with Judi Varnai Aronson—artist, entrepreneur, and keeper of a truly remarkable family jewels story.”
Judi smiled, her hands resting gently on her lap. “Thank you, Martie. I’m honored to be here and grateful to share this part of my family’s history.”
Martie nodded. “We’ve known each other for over 20 years. Our connection runs deep with Brooklyn, but also with the stories of the treasures we carry. You mentioned something recently of Facebook—a ring, and the incredible journey it took that brought it to you. Would you share that with us?”
Taking a deep breath, Judi opened her palm to reveal a delicate diamond ring. “This is my grandmother’s engagement ring. She lived in Hungary during the Holocaust, and though I never met her, her legacy is part of who I am.” Her voice was steady, but emotion flickered in her eyes. “She was offered the chance to escape by the brave Wallenberg, but out of fear and uncertainty, she refused. Instead, she boarded a train to Bergen-Belsen, and with unimaginable courage, she managed to hide this ring from the guards—despite their efforts to strip every last bit of gold from their victims.”
Martie leaned in, visibly moved. “How did the ring make it out—how did it come to be yours today?”
Judi nodded solemnly. “When my grandmother knew she might not survive, she entrusted the ring to a stranger and begged him to give it to her only son, my father, whom she didn’t even know was still alive. Against all odds, the man survived, found my father through refugee agencies after the war, and delivered the ring. My father kept it safe all his life, through liberation, loss, and a new beginning after we fled Hungary during the revolution. About ten years before he died at age 98, he passed it on to me.”
Martie’s voice softened. “That’s incredible, Judi. With everything your father endured, to hold on to this one thing—a symbol of love, family, and survival. What do you hope will happen to the ring when you are dead & gone?”
Judi smiled. “I want it to stay in our family. I’ve considered passing it to my daughter, or eventually to my three-year-old grandson. But even more important than the ring itself is the story it carries. In a world where there are still people who deny the Holocaust, passing on this story is my way of making sure the truth lives on.”
The room was quiet for a moment, the weight of the story settling in. Then Martie gestured to Judi’s surroundings. “You’re also a talented potter and artist. How does your creative work tie into your family’s story and your own healing?”
Judi turned her camera to showcase beautiful pieces of pottery—totem poles of raku ware, vases, and more. “For me, working with clay is healing. It’s a way to honor the past, find joy, and keep creating.”
Martie closed the conversation with her signature reflection. “Thank you, Judi, for sharing this deeply personal story and for reminding us that it’s not just the objects, but the stories behind them that truly matter. To everyone watching or listening, remember to share your stories and cherish those Things that hold meaning in your own life.”
With a final smile & a thank you, the episode ended, having woven together memory, survival, and the art of keeping history alive.
It's important for all of us to remember that our stories are always part of our collective history. There is no history without personal history. Keep on sharing your stories of the Things you keep, the Things that matter & the Things you will leave behind. Your stories matter!
To learn more about & connect with this amazing artist: Find her on Instagram & Facebook by typing in Judi Varnai Aronson. Check out her gorgeous pottery & jewelry.
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 47: Woven Generations: filmmaker Melissa Davey’s 100-Year-Old Rug That Connects Her Family
jeudi 2 octobre 2025 • Durée 27:36
Martie McNabb glanced at her screen, a familiar spark of anticipation in her eyes. She loves hosting Things That Matter, a series devoted to the stories held by the objects in our homes aka our personal museums. Today’s guest is someone she’s admired for years: filmmaker Melissa Davey, a woman whose story embodies the very spirit of the show: connection, community & legacy.
After a brief greeting, Martie smiled and put her trademark question to Melissa: “So, Melissa, what’s one thing that truly matters to you?”
Melissa beamed. “I brought something a little unusual,” she said. She shifted her laptop to reveal a large, richly patterned rug sprawled across her living room floor. “I can’t exactly hold it up, but I hope you can see it. This rug is over a hundred years old and it's been in my family for generations.”
Martie leaned in, intrigued. “It looks beautiful! But what makes it special to you?”
As Melissa spoke, the rug transformed in Martie’s mind from a simple floor covering to a living archive. Melissa shared how her grandmother had purchased the Iranian rug a century ago, how her mother inherited it, and how it graced every house Melissa lived in since childhood. Melissa’s voice softened with emotion, recalling crawling on its surface as a toddler, the laughter of cousins during family get-togethers, the quiet moments of reflection as the years slipped by.
“It’s more than just a rug,” Melissa explained. “It’s a canvas of my family history—every generation has literally stood, walked, and played on it. Even now, my grandchildren and my cat find special spots on it.”
As Melissa described the weight of memories bound up in the rug, Martie nodded. She too believed objects held energy—that stories could be woven into fibers, wood, or stone. “Some people say things don’t matter,” Martie reflected, “but clearly, this connects you to everyone who came before.”
Melissa agreed. “Exactly. And when my mother passed away at 98, I knew this was the keepsake I wanted—a living legacy. I hope my own children, and their children, keep the tradition alive.”
The conversation shifted, and Martie invited Melissa to share more about her recent work. With characteristic humility, Melissa explained how she’d started filmmaking at age 65—a nod to her lifelong love of movies and a realization that, if not now, when?
“I made ‘Beyond 60’ about women over sixty doing extraordinary things, and then ‘Climbing Into Life’ about the oldest woman to climb El Capitan,” Melissa explained. “I learned so much—mostly, to never underestimate the stories people have to share, no matter their age.”
As the interview wound down, Martie asked Melissa how viewers could keep up with her projects. “Just visit my website, melissadavey.com,” Melissa smiled.
When the cameras were off, Martie sat for a moment, reflecting on the stories she’d just heard. She glanced at her own collection of keepsakes—wondering anew what stories they held, and what stories others still longed to tell.
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
Episode 46: Building a Legacy: author Blair Mostyn on Family, Fantasy, and Following Your Dreams
jeudi 18 septembre 2025 • Durée 18:15
“Welcome to this episode of Things That Matter BL,” Martie began. “Today’s conversation is truly special. You reached out after attending a workshop I facilitated for Alexa Bigwarfe's Women In Publishing community — well, technically, after watching the replay — and I was struck by your open embrace of the show and tell method I taught to help authors truly connect with their audience.”
BL’s laughter was soft. “I felt the same, Martie. Your advice about storytelling, especially through the objects and memories that define us, really resonated. It’s what I do through my writing—but I’d never thought to show it with something as simple as a photograph.”
She held up a picture: herself at a recent conference, arms crossed, the words “I kept dreaming” written boldly on her skin. The image wasn’t just a portrait, BL explained—it was a memory, an artifact from an exercise meant to symbolize lessons learned and dreams held dear.
Martie listened, captivated, as BL recounted her young beginnings as a writer—a 13-year-old girl crafting fantasy worlds to escape life’s troubles. The first novel she ever completed, she’d handed to her father, seeking encouragement. His response, honest but perhaps not filtered for a young heart, was that it was good, but not great. The words stung, but they also lit a fire. Blair kept writing, kept dreaming, letting her imaginary worlds provide both escape and empowerment through adversity.
The conversation turned to BL’s latest accomplishment: “Heroes of Another Age,” the prequel to her now-sprawling fantasy series. Martie’s eyes sparkled as Blair described magic, brotherhood, and coming-of-age adventures.
Now that the show and tell section was complete, Martie turned our attention to legacy: “So, what do you want to happen to that photograph when you’re dead & gone?”
BL smiled. She spoke of her two daughters, now 12 and 9, her biggest cheerleaders. “I want them to keep that photo as my final message—never stop dreaming, never stop growing into who you’re meant to be.”
Their discussion circled back to connection—how life’s smallest moments and artifacts can spark the most powerful stories. Martie offered her support, inviting Blair to collaborate on future events to help other writers share their own stories through objects and memories.
As the interview wound down, BL shared how listeners could stay in touch and find her award-winning book, inviting everyone to step into a world where magic and family intertwine.
Martie closed the show with her signature warmth, reminding viewers that it’s not the things that matter most, but the stories attached to them—and that sharing those stories is the real legacy we leave behind.
To find out more about my guest, author BL Mostlyn visit: https://blmostyn.com/
To learn more about Alexa Bigwarfe & Women In Publishing: https://alexabigwarfe.com/
https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/
Check out the workshop I offered, via WIP, to authors looking for unique ways to build & connect more deeply with their audience: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/event/things-that-matter-connections-community-legacy-with-martie-mcnabb/
Are you an author looking to build your audience of readers? Hire me to host unique story-sharing gatherings as an alternative to typical book launches. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
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Episode 45: From Childhood Collections to Curating History, Denny Daniel shares stories of Interesting Things
jeudi 4 septembre 2025 • Durée 23:24
Martie McNabb straightened the stack of index cards on her lap, eyes sparkling with anticipation. “Welcome back to Things That Matter,” she greeted the invisible audience, her voice warm with genuine curiosity. “Today, we’re joined by Denny Daniel, the founder of the Museum of Interesting Things, a place where stories quite literally fill every corner.”
Denny sat across from her, the afternoon sunlight glancing off one of the peculiar objects he’d brought—a tiny, exquisitely crafted shoe, a souvenir from his late father’s days as a renowned designer. Martie leaned in, sensing the significance.
“Denny, let’s start at the very beginning,” she said. “Was there a single spark that set off your love for collecting?”
Denny grinned, nostalgic. “Honestly, it began with show and tell in first grade. I would turn my house upside down every week, searching for something—anything—that could kickstart a story. Beetle records, Spider-Man comics, even batteries. I couldn’t get enough of sharing how these things fit into my growing world.”
Martie nodded, connecting the dots. “So, in some ways, those early shows and tells shaped everything that came after—right up to your museum’s founding.”
“Absolutely,” Denny replied. “Collecting always felt creative to me, a mix of storytelling, art, and honoring history. My dad was a shoe designer, so craftsmanship and narrative were family values. When my creative paths crossed with a desire for something deeper than filmmaking or DJing, the Museum of Interesting Things was almost inevitable.”
Martie smiled. She, too, believed in the power of objects to tell stories. “And now your museum has these three lives—you bring history into schools and communities, offer private tours in your New York apartment, and host lively speakeasies even folks across the country can join. Denny, what is it you hope people carry away from these experiences?”
“That the things around us aren’t just things—they’re vessels for connection,” Denny said. “When kids, neighbors, or visitors hold these objects, they feel the pulse of invention, creativity, and shared memory. And hopefully, they leave inspired, ready to see the stories in their own treasures.”
Martie glanced around at the souvenirs framing Denny’s space, the sense of history tangible in the air. “And what about long-term? What happens to your collection when you’re gone?”
Denny’s answer was matter of fact: “I want to donate the entire building and collection to New York. That way, these stories—mine, my family’s, the inventors’ and all the visitors’—become part of the city. They’re not just relics for sale online; they’re a living legacy.”
Martie closed the interview with a smile, feeling the resonance of the objects and stories shared. “Thank you, Denny, for keeping history alive—not behind glass, but in our hands, hearts, and conversations.”
As the cameras faded, the stories lingered, woven into the fabric of things that truly matter.
To learn more about these beautiful interesting (never boring) human check out his website: www.museumthings.org or follow him on facebook.com/museumthings or instagram.com/museumthings
And if you live in NYC or will be visiting, reach out to Denny to schedule your private tour of the Museum of Interesting Things at dennydanielx@ gmail.com
Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked "What Things would tell your life story?" What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself .... what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
Watch here:
Or Listen here:
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