Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, blogger, life coach, and health and wellness professional, Cindy Georgakas.

In this vibrant conversation we get such a wonderful taste of Cindy’s energized and connected presence. She tells us how Covid was the impetus of starting to share wellness information in a different format.

That led to her book released last year in the Happiness Category, Re-Create and Celebrate: 7 Steps to Live the Life of Your Dreams.” In the process of releasing that book, she planned a second release of the book of the poetry she wasn’t able to include in Re-Create & Celebrate. Celebrating Poetry is due out mid-November.

Hearing Cindy tell these stories underscores the rich lessons of learning to adjust when what we’ve planned turns out to be different timing and format.

Vicki and Wynne ask Cindy about what else she has planned on her creative radar.

This is a great episode because all of Cindy’s answers are so full of heart. She is an inspiring author to listen to – because she’s so interested in creating a-ha moments for others. Cindy is a well-spring of wisdom that speaks to the essence of who we are.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in poetry, and in conversation.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode:

Episode 93 show notes

Cindy's website and blog: https://uniquelyfitblog.com/

Re-create & Celebrate: 7 Steps to Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/

Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, and blogger, Lauren Scott.

Lauren tell us the beautiful story about how she started a poetry blog 14 years ago. In the process, she cultivated the roots she’d planted as a young girl for poetry as a destination for her emotions.

Vicki and Wynne ask how she took the step from her blog to publishing books. Lauren tells us the themes of each of her FOUR published books. She weaves the theme of love through all of them, even the most serious, just the way love carries us through life.

And she gives us a sneak peek into the children’s book that is about to hit the press. She authored it with her nephew as illustrator.

The morning we recorded this podcast, Lauren’s piece Treats Only, Please was announced as best publication of the month on Spillwords Press

This podcast is like a master class on the growth mindset. Those are our words, not Lauren’s because she is wonderfully humble and real. Which makes it even more powerful and inspiring to hear Lauren tell about her writer’s journey – all the things she’s overcome and been willing to try – and how that feeds into fantastic ideas for new projects.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in posts, and in novels.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this podcast:

Episode 92 show notes

Website: baydreamerwrites.com
Author Of The Month, May 2023 Spillwords Press
Monthly Contributor, Gobbers-Masticadores Literary Website
Amazon Author Page

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson dive into the need to nest.

As September begins, we feel the summer's intensity wane in the Northern Hemisphere. While I cherish summer, there's a point where the expectations for endless outdoor fun with my family become overwhelming.

Vicki and I discuss transitioning from the carefree days of summer to the structured school year. Whether you're a parent, teacher, empty nester, or caregiver, we explore the opportunities that come with a fall reset.

From dedicating more time to writing and reflecting to tackling projects set aside for vacations or house guests, we can embrace the seasonal shift.

Vicki shares insights from a nutritionist and the Surgeon General, offering food for thought on eating earlier and acknowledging our burdens.

These are all great ideas for recognizing the benefits of resetting with the change of seasons. So, let's put on our cozy sweaters, don our creative thinking caps, and enjoy the fall.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling.

Links for this episode:

Episode 83 show notes

From the hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with author, graphic designer, and blogger, Dave Williams.

We love reading something that gets our creative juices going. But even better in the community of podcasting and blogging is catching a ride on everyone else’s enthusiasm!

In this episode, Dave Williams, tells us about the inspiration he gleaned from reading Felicia Day’s book, “Embrace Your Weird.”

Felicia’s book is more than a read, it’s an experience of exercises to break us out of our creative ruts. Dave shares his take on what inhibits our natural flow and some of the things that inspire him.

This is a great episode with the incredibly talented and creative Dave Williams. We get to draft off of his inspiration, Felicia Day’s book, and the flow of creative sparks.

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 82 show notes Dave Williams – writings and drawings (wordpress.com)

‘Bubba Ho-Tep’ and feeling more okay about creating weirdness – Dave Williams (wordpress.com)

Dave’s review of Felicia Day’s book can be found here.

“Embrace Your Weird” by Felicia Day - linked here.

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with blogger and retirement specialist, Michelle Oram.

We all love Michelle for her grounded approach to decluttering and the accountability example she provides.

She shares some of that and more in this episode featuring her clutter tales.

Michelle provides a great approach with what to do as we declutter and uncover the wonderful memories that are stashed in the objects we’ve hung onto. By writing out those stories, Michelle shows us how we can hang on to the essence even while saying “thank you” and letting go the objects.

So Vicki and I laugh along as we talk about a piece of French homework from the 80’s.

And we appreciate the greater lessons taught by an effective high school teacher.

This episode is a fantastic dive into how we celebrate and share the life we’ve lived while freeing up space for the life we have now.

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 81 show notes

Boomer Eco Crusader - Live Green | Declutter | Simplify Life

Clutter Tales Archives - Boomer Eco Crusader

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with blogger and author, Mark Petruska.

Mark tells us a great story about how he willed a campsite into existence. Even better, it was for his wife’s birthday! And it was in one of my favorite places – Mt. Rainier National Park!

We love Mark’s incredible mix of optimism, focus, and passion. So Vicki and I get him to elaborate how he harnesses the power of manifestation.

Building on the published work of Stanford professor, Dr. James Doty, we talk about the steps Dr. Doty suggests for manifesting outcomes in our lives. This isn’t just wishing for something, it is digging one’s heels in and passionately pursuing an outcome.

Which Mark illustrates beautifully with a great story about manifesting a refund.

This is a great episode about the power of setting our intentions, not listening to naysayers, and manifesting the things that are important. It’s inspirational, powerful, and fun!

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 80 show notes

Mark My Words – MARK PETRUSKA | WRITER

Ohanapecosh, By Gosh! – Mark My Words (markpetruska.com)

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with retired elementary teacher, blogger, and author, Pete Springer.

Pete tells us a hilarious story about a volunteer job that devolved into the giggles. And we talk about how laughter is such a great unifier and connector.

Sure, there are some things in life that need to be taken seriously. But is it okay to laugh even as we are trying to do a good job?

Pete carries that forward to another story about a recent mad dash through the airport. In his version of planes, carts, and shuttle vans, he delightfully reminds us that we will eventually get to our destination. And it’s better to go laughing.

So please join us for this delightful episode that has Vicki and me in giggles and I know you will be chuckling right alongside us.

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 79 show notes

They Call Me Mom by Pete Springer

Pete Springer – Passionate Teacher and Future Children's Author (wordpress.com)

Sometimes You Just Have to Laugh – Pete Springer (wordpress.com)

When You Crack Yourself Up: “Wind Beneath My Wings” – Victoria Ponders

Other Episodes with Pete:

Episode 68: The Circle of Life with Pete Springer

Episode 36: They Call Me Mom with Pete Springer

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode my hosts Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with esteemed psychologist, Dr. Gerald Stein.

Dr. Stein has become a great friend of the Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcast so it was so fitting that he came on to share revealing and delightful stories about friendship.

He tells of the three categories of friendship according to Aristotle. And we talk about the investment that it takes to build a platonic relationship with another.

Of course, with investments come payoffs. And Dr. Stein coaches us through how to think about that term when it comes to friendship.

In the course of any lasting relationship, apologies come into play. Dr. Stein tells us some wonderfully illustrative stories about apologies and brings us to the heart of apology.

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

About Friendship by Dr. Gerald Stein

Becoming Close Friends: A Practical Guide by Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 78 show notes

Dr. Gerald Stein’s Blog: Dr. Gerald Stein

Other podcast episodes with Dr. Stein:

Episode 60: The Perils of Prediction with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 46: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein – Part I

Episode 47: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein – Part II

Episode 37: The Waiting Game with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 29: Accidental Philanthropists with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 20: The Art of the Interview with Dr. Gerald Stein

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and I are with Wynne's almost nine-year-old daughter, Miss O.

Miss O recently sang an acapella solo at the church that Wynne's dad used to lead. Listening to her pure, soprano voice while sitting in a sanctuary where I often feel the presence of him (and Him) surrounding me, brought me to tears.

So she generously sings a bit of what she sang and tells us how she prepared to sing this not once, but twice. Miss O reminds us that people are pulling for us when we step up and are brave.

Then she brings all the other elements that go in to stepping up – practice, preparation, nerves and excitement.

This is a wonderful episode from a young girl who feels and celebrates the generational pull of family and is willing to share her a bit of herself to honor that tie to those that have gone before.

I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story… and song.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode

Episode 77 show notes

Other Episodes with Miss O

Episode 45: Third Grade Writing Wisdom with Miss O

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this week's podcast, Wynne and Vicki talked with dear friend, marketing man, and creative guru, Eric Knudson about riding the bus.

Eric is a dear friend of Wynne's and a master story-teller. She's known Eric for ten years and through the years, he’s regaled her with many stories. She can’t tease out exactly the formula but it’s some combination of his use of humor, timing, and detail that makes him so entertaining to listen to.

He also had the pleasure of knowing Wynne's dad and understanding what a whirlwind of energy and good-natured sociability he was.

So in this episode, he brings both his fantastic storytelling and a bit of Wynne's dad to a great story about a recent bus ride. It’s hilarious, dramatic, and full of fun.

Links for this episode:

Episode 76 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are with blogger and retired pre-K teacher, Beth Kennedy.

Beth tells us the story of an instant perspective moment. In a chance encounter with an extremely friendly man, she is both buoyed and leveled.

It’s a funny and thoughtful story that is so true to Beth’s writing. In her beautifully concise presentation, she allows the sparkle of the realizations to shine bright.

So we talk about how we can get lost in our own worlds until something or someone breaks through and reminds us of the big picture. Naturally, our encounters with others ripple out.

This is a great conversation and story with a fantastic writer and keen observer of life that will stick with you long after it’s over.

So I know you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 75 show notes

I didn't have my glasses on.... | A trip through life with fingers crossed and eternal optimism. (ididnthavemyglasseson.com)

cast aside. | I didn't have my glasses on.... (ididnthavemyglasseson.com)

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with Melanie McGauran. Melanie is a former newspaper reporter and has a beautiful blog, Leavingthedooropen.com.

Melanie tells the story of her friend, doctor and educator, Lissa McKinley. As Lissa goes through her own journey of cancer, it informs her abilities as a doctor, teacher, and humanist.

Melanie tells us of her long friendship with Lissa, starting in all-girls preparatory school, and how she drew inspiration from Lissa both in life and in death.

We talk about how writing helps touch others long after we’re gone, especially when we go through similar experiences.

Melanie tells us about how Lissa’s joy and gratitude rippled out, even more so now that she has shared it with us.

We also get to hear about Melanie’s inspiration as a writer and newspaper reporter, starting with the legacy of her grandparents who were well-known artists.

This is a great episode with a fabulous writer about gratitude, empathy, and connecting with others. Through words, actions, and sometimes even tattoos.

So I know you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 74 show notes

Melanie’s Blog: Leavingthedooropen.com – Real Storytelling

Saving Lissa – Leavingthedooropen.com

A New Me - Leavingthedooropen.com

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, blogger, and corporate communications specialist, Brian Hannon about National Novel Writing Month.

Brian tells us why he values the encouragement and accountability piece of NaNoWriMo.

He spills a little bit about the project he has in mind and the goals he’s setting for the month.

Brian is such a great writer, with roots as a newspaper writer and corporate communications specialist. We get to see into the dichotomy of the flexibility in writing Brian has so beautifully explored in posts this week contrasted with the structure necessary to produce a novel.

So it’s fun to hear how he makes time to write, especially as he gears up for NaNoWriMo.

Brian also turns the tables on Vicki and me and gets us to reveal a bit of the bigger projects we are working on. We get to collectively talk about the wonderful goal of producing “wholehearted writing” in whatever medium we choose.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in posts, and in novels.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 91 show notes

Writing from the Heart with Brian: https://writingfromtheheartwithbrian.com/

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with writer, blogger, and planner Brian Hannon.

Brian tells us about how he plans family trips. He comes up with solid options and then his fellow travelers enthusiastically respond.

Well, that’s the idea at least. So we talk about what it actually looks like to be a planner who is coaxing everyone along.

Brian brings forward the beautiful sense of calm that comes with having something on the horizon to look forward to. And we talk about how to blend planning and spontaneity.

This is a great episode for the beginning of summer. Brian’s fantastic story-telling sparks our juices for how to enjoy our planned and unplanned vacations!

So I know you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 73 show notes

Two Kinds of People by Brian Hannon

Brian's blog: Writing from the Heart with Brian

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk about identity in the unemployment office.

One of the fascinating positions that Vicki has held is as a career counselor at the unemployment office. She gives us a glimpse into how the jobs we do become our identity by telling us the stories of some of the people who she coached.

We talk about how being a helper or a boss manifests even when someone is no longer doing that job.

I love Vicki’s powers of observation and ability to draw thru lines – talents that show up when she writes, tells stories, and in the many professional roles she has played.

So I know you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 72 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

Related podcast episodes:

Episode 71:  Catching an Edge with Wynne and Vicki

Episode 70: “A” is For Ambivalence with Vicki and Wynne

Episode 69: All You Have To Do Is Ask with Wynne and Vicki

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are talking about receiving unexpected feedback to our stories.

We know we’re not alone in being surprised sometimes by how a story is received. We tell about an experience to a person or persons and then are shocked at how it lands. We thought it was funny and they thought it stupid. We thought it was deep and they only appreciate the surface. Whatever it is, it is out of our control for better or worse.

When our inner editor starts curating the content we share, we sometimes short-circuit our ability to be fully seen. So Vicki and Wynne talk about the healing effect of telling our stories, no matter how they land.

Enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 71 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are talking about the surprising ways we can receive help and inspiration.

Vicki tells us a tale of self-discovery. In response to a pesky interpersonal situation, she goes to sleep wondering if she did the right thing. She’s facing a growth moment and needs a little grace for life’s crossroads.

And she gets a gift from her dearly departed dad. She tells the story about how the whispers of dreams can help us, especially when we need subtle guidance.

Please join us for the story behind "A" is or Ambivalence. And imagine what the rest of the alphabet could hold if you were to envision the next thing you need to hear. B is for Bounty? C is for Connection?

Please join us for the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you'll love it.

Links for this Episode:

Episode 70 show notes

A is for Ambivalence post

Lucid Dream: Vicki Style – Victoria Ponders

How to Lucid Dream With Tips From Experts (verywellmind.com)

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is co-host Vicki Atkinson and we are talking about questions.

It starts with a question that Wynne's eight-year-old daughter, Miss O, asked about what my dad thought about her divorce. As Wynne gives her the answer, she finally connect the dots to asking questions to her dad about his life.

Many of the answers Wynne has about family and foundation came because she had the gut feeling to ask him to tell her the story of his life.

Sometimes we forget to tell stories because someone has not yet asked. As our brilliant and witty friend, Jack Canfora says, "I'm an open book. I just don't know how to find the best pages."

What have been our inflection points? What makes us laugh? What is meaningful? How have we overcome the rough patches? What were the things we wouldn’t wish on anyone else but made us strong?

Vicki and Wynne talk about the questions and answers in this episode.

Please join us for the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you'll love it.

Links for this Episode:

Episode 69 show notes Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with blogger, author, retired elementary school teacher and great storyteller, Pete Springer.

Pete’s storytelling is fantastic. And the fun twist with this particular story is that the story I told about trying to rescue Buttercup the bunny in episode 66 is what prompted Pete to volunteer to tell us about the great adventures of class pets.

That’s the connective tissue of stories. We tell a story and it takes the listener someplace. Hopefully someplace worth going.

Pete also shares with us the impact he’s seen for storytelling across the generations. Regardless of age, there is an intimacy when we dare to utter our personal narratives.

Please join us for the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you'll love it.

Or subscribe to our YouTube channel to see a video clip of each story: @SharingtheHeartoftheMatter.

Links for this Episode: Episode 68 show notes

Episode 68: The Circle of Life with Pete Springer

Pete's blog: Pete Springer

Pete's post about Class Pets

Pete's previous HoTM podcast episode: Episode 36: They Call Me Mom with Pete Springer

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, blogger and author, Vicki Atkinson.

Vicki and Wynne are big believers in the power of story – to connect us, to create intergenerational healing, and to make meaning out of the events of our lives. Whether the story is funny or serious, we see others able to pick up the thread and run with it. Often it starts with, “That reminds me of…”

So in this episode, Vicki tell us about an a-ha moment story she had as a child about her dad, Sonny. He gracefully navigated the ups and downs of having a disabled daughter, Vicki’s sister, Lisa.  

And when they moved back to the town where he’d grown up, Vicki understood why. He’d been a champion of the differently abled for a long time.

Please join us for the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

We know you'll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 67 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, blogger and author, Vicki Atkinson.

We are changing our format starting with this episode. Vicki and Wynne are big believers in the power of story – to connect us, to create intergenerational healing, and to make meaning out of the events of our lives. To set the stage, we will be starting with someone telling a story in each episode.

In this case, Wynne tells a story about what happened when she and her kids recently rescued a bunny. We got to see and learn a little bit about the nature of life, death, and our part in the circle of life.

Please forgive me for talking too fast as I tell the story. It’s part of my learning process to transition between interviewer to being in the spotlight. My nerves pushed me to rush so I need to practice slowing down.

In this episode that is about 15 minutes long, after I tell the story, we talk a little bit about the elements of a good story. Drawing from the research of Will Storr and his Ted Talk, we highlight some of the features that come to play in most of our stories, whether they be personal narrative, fiction, or something in between.

Vicki brilliantly likens our new route starting with this episode, Route 66. Please join us for the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.

Links for this episode:

Episode 66 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and I are talk with one of our favorite repeat guests, blogger and author, Mark Petruska, about how to be the new guy.

Mark tells us the fascinating story of his new job. We talk about Mark’s great willingness to lean in to change.

We learn from Mark about living life to the fullest. As always, he keeps us laughing as he tells us about the excellent timing that occurred for the most recent solar eclipse to land on his first day on the new job.

This is a great episode about how to be daring when facing change. We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 65 show notes

Mark's blog (newly redesigned and looking great!): Mark My Words

Some of the posts we reference in this podcast:

• What comes around, comes around. – Mark My Words (markpetruska.com)
• Job-hopping saved my life. – Mark My Words (markpetruska.com)
• Leslie Knope is my spirit animal. – Mark My Words (markpetruska.com)




From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Vicki Atkinson, and we are talking about the latest book from author David Brooks, How to Know a Person.

We talk about his great encouragement to be vulnerable enough to be seen and his image of each of us as a creative artist who has a unique way of seeing the world.

And we dive into the methods that help us listen well.

We have a great conversation around what it takes to tell our own stories.

Vicki also shares with us the wisdom she learned listening to David Brooks give a commencement speech when she was a faculty member. She explains why his approach was so much more meaningful than many of the others she heard in her 40 years in academia.

This is a great episode about how we can be intentional about getting to know others. We know you’ll love it.

Links for this podcast:

Episode 64 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk about site design and WordPress themes.

We know - we can hear you groaning from here. In fact, Wynne is groaning right along with you even though this is a large part of what she's done professionally for 30 years.

But if you are thinking about changing up your site or even just wondering if you should, there are some good tactics to help make this manageable.

We talk through some of the design considerations to be mindful of like navigation and search. And then we look at the sections to consider when picking a theme like the header, footer, and sidebar.

We address some of the problems we’ve heard people have encountered when switching themes in WordPress like content disappearing and inability to revert back. Wynne offers some strategies for avoiding that flavor of disappointment and disaster.

There is a presentation that gives these elements and examples to download as a companion piece to this podcast. Here’s the thing – tackling site design isn’t always fun, but it’s better when we do it together with some good approaches and tactics.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling as told through well-designed sites.

We know you’ll love it!

P.S. Here's the link to a PDF presentation of the ideas and process presented in this podcast conversation.

Links for this episode:

Episode 90 show notes

Related episode: Episode 87: LinkedIn Tweaks for Authors

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with dear friend and co-host, Vicki Atkinson, and we are talking about the keys to success as collaborators.

We talk about how openness and authenticity are necessary to be good partners.

I bring my years of experience as a consultant for collaboration software to the table talking about the right mix of structure and openness to provide room for individual expression.

Vicki gives us a great metaphor about understanding what history is best packed away in a steamer trunk versus carried with us in a backpack.

And I love that because of my favorite backpack meditation.

Here’s the thing. Writing our stories has enabled Vicki and me to be collaborative partners even though we’ve never met in person. We recognize that we are lucky to have been able to build such a connection and that it doesn’t happen every day.

So in this podcast conversation, we break down the path to connection through vulnerability, openness, warmth and responsiveness in order to share what’s worked for us. It’s a great episode about how to collaborate with others. We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

Episode 63 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with author, podcaster, publisher, and former radio producer, Rick Kaempfer.

Rick has recently published The Loop Files: An Oral History of the Most Outrageous Radio Station Ever. It’s a celebration of a time when radio, rock and roll, and comedy all came together.

We talk about how Rick prepared to meet celebrities as a DJ and producer in the pre-Internet era. He tells us about his regimen to subscribe to all the magazines he could and read 7 newspapers a day.

Rick, who claims he is fueled by eye rolls, tells us great stories from his book, Father Knows Nothing, that pulled from his weekly column when he was a stay-at-home dad.

We recorded this conversation right after opening day for major league baseball which was a great segue to his book, Every Cub Ever. And we talk about his fiction and his work as a publisher supporting authors and encouraging the full publishing lifecycle including promotion.

This is a great episode with an incredibly prolific author, supportive publisher, and powerful presence. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 62 show notes

The Loop Files: An Oral History of the Most Outrageous Radio Station Ever | Eckhartz Press

EveryCubEver--6th Edition (2024) | Eckhartz Press

Back in the D.D.R | Eckhartz Press

Father Knows Nothing | Eckhartz Press

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with author and blogger, Cheryl Oreglia.

Cheryl has recently returned from attending the San Francisco writers conference. She shares her elevator pitch for her next book project.

She inspires us to keep writing by talking about the symbiotic relationship between the gatekeepers and writers.

In her inimitable style, Cheryl keeps us laughing alongside her as she reveals the mishaps, lessons, and successes of a writers conference.

She also beautifully describes our personal stories and the way, perhaps obligation, to keep writing them.

This is a great episode that will leave you inspired by Cheryl’s courage, ability to show up, and knack for telling a story. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this post:

Episode 61 show notes

Grow Damn It!: The Feeding and Nurturing of Life by Cheryl Oreglia on Amazon

We Are The Authors of Our Lives post

Cheryl's blog: Living in the Gap

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cheryl.oreglia 

Twitter: www.twitter.com/@cheryloreglia 

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/cheryloreglia 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cheryloreglia

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book, a special story about resilience and love: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are back with writer and retired psychologist, Dr. Gerald Stein.

In this fascinating episode, we talk about the factors that keep us from accurately predicting how we’ll react in a situation or knowing what we want life to be.

We talk about the tests in life like money, fame, winning, and more that look promising but probably feel different than we imagine if we achieve them.

Dr. Stein talks about the factors that impact our ability to anticipate how we feel.

In the face of our poor predictive power, Dr. Stein provides us some ways to face the future like evaluating our patterns and preparing for change.  He also reveals the practice of Tikkun olam, a Jewish concept that directs our energies towards repair of the world. Here's a sneak peak video:

This is a great episode that reveals the perils of prediction and suggests how we can live our best life even when we don’t know what’s coming. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode:

Episode 60 show notes

Dr. Gerald Stein's Blog: Dr. Gerald Stein

Don't be too sure of yourself: Why We aren't Good at Predictions by Dr. Gerald Stein

Other podcast episodes with Dr. Stein:

Episode 46: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein - Part I

Episode 47: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein - Part II

Episode 37: The Waiting Game with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 29: Accidental Philanthropists with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 20: The Art of the Interview with Dr. Gerald Stein

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with writer and musician, Todd Fulginiti. Our discussion centers around finding creative balance, especially in Todd’s post-Covid life as a musician gig worker.

He talks about grabbing opportunities when they pop up. Because you never know how long the invitations will keep coming. And then the overload that happens when you say “yes” to everything.

We talk through working with the tension between doing too much and taking care of oneself. Todd tells us his conclusion of finding his balance.

We also find out Todd’s why for playing music and his creative life.

This is a great episode that delves into balance (or lack thereof) in our creative lives. We know you’ll love it! Links for this Episode:

Episode 59 show notes Todd's Wise & Shine post about creative balance: Is My Problem Age or Stress?

Todd site where you can listen to his latest album and find out more: Todd Fulginiti Music

HoTM podcast about his album release: Episode 38: Jazz on King with Todd Fulginiti

Todd's Wise and Shine post about the release of his latest album, Jazz on King: My New Album Releases Today!

Todd's Wise & Shine post about finding his playing style: Why Did I Say That?

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with our colleague, writer and corporate communication leader, Brian Hannon.

Brian shares with us what sparks his creativity and impetus to write.

We talk about paradoxes and George Carlin.

Brian tells us the secret about his productivity to write both personally and professionally.

And because it’s always informative to find out how others do it all, we talk about balance. This is a great episode with a fantastic writer and friend. Brian always brings such warmth and inspiration to our conversations and truly has a creative heart. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode: Episode 58 show notes

Brian's blog: Writing from the Heart with Brian

Brian's post on paradoxes: A life full of paradoxes

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with author, blogger, and former ad-man Chris Thelen.

We talk about publishing his fun thriller, Islands of Deception. He highlights how important it is to have a great team when publishing a book. The goodness that comes from being surrounded by smart and supportive people.

We talk about how he incorporates key locations from his home state of Michigan in the book and the lifetime of experiences that made it fun and personal to write about.

Chris tells us how he landed on classifying it as a “beach read” and how that affected his marketing strategies.

And we talk about all the reasons not to publish – and the big ones that compel us to do it anyway. This is a great episode about the journey to becoming an author.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode:

Episode 57 show notes

Chris' blog: Chris G. Thelen, Author

Book website: Islands of Deception

Islands of Deception on Amazon

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with Edgerton award winning playwright, musician, and writer Jack Canfora.  

Talking with Jack is like attending a master class on creativity. In fact, our conversation with Jack is so rich with both writing practices and nuggets about authors and artists that we split it into two episodes.

In the first episode of this series that aired last week, we talked about writing practices Jack uses when in a lull and about creative attention.

In this second episode, we delve into the balance of sentences. Jack, trained as a Shakespearean actor, even recites a few lines of Hamlet for us (see this video snippet).

We talk about the responsibility of writers to their audience, whomever that may be, when they hit the publish button. And the confidence required to keep doing our best and putting things out there.

Jack holds that there are no writing rules – but there are some guidelines. He shares some of his, along with ideas for training as a writer.

Links for this Episode:

Episode 56 show notes

Jack's website: Jack Canfora | Playwright | Podcaster | Writing Coach

Jack's Online Theater Company: New Normal Rep

Jericho by Jack Canfora on Amazon

Jack Canfora on Instagram and Twitter: @jackcanfora

Other podcast episodes featuring Jack:

Episode 4: Why Theater Matters

Episode 55: Master Class in Creativity with Jack Canfora - Part I

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are talking with Edgerton award winning playwright, musician, and writer Jack Canfora.  

Talking with Jack is like attending a master class on creativity. In fact, our conversation with Jack is so rich with both writing practices and nuggets about authors and artists that we’ve split it into two episodes.

In this first episode, we talk with Jack about depression and creative expression. He adds some fantastic and funny insight from comedian, Gary Gulman (HBO special: The Great Depresh).

Jack also reveals a couple of his brilliant ways to experiment when he’s hit a creative lull. His answer about whether he writes long-hand will have you giggling right along with Vicki and me.

He tells us what is hard to teach and important to learn about creative attention. And he shares with us a delightful story about the Beatles song Eleanor Rigby that exposes an intimate insight into the creative process. (Here's a video clip of Jack telling this story)

With all the food for thought and inspiration, we know you will have plenty of chew on until the conclusion of our incredible conversation airs next week.

We love talking with the brilliant and funny Jack Canfora and leave each conversation a little bit smarter, much more inspired to hone the craft of writing, and in awe of a master creator. We know you’ll love this episode!

Links for this Episode:

Episode 55 show notes

Jack's website: Jack Canfora | Playwright | Podcaster | Writing Coach

Jack's Online Theater Company: New Normal Rep

Jericho by Jack Canfora on Amazon

Jack Canfora on Instagram and Twitter: @jackcanfora

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and I are with stylist, and my sister-in-law, Lindsey Bauer.

We are so delighted to air this conversation with Lindsey as she shares nuggets from her long career in the fashion industry involving design, manufacturing, and retail.

She tells us about the geometry of looking long and lean instead of fruit shaped.

Lindsey tells us why we shouldn’t buy clothes at Costco.

We talk through Lindsey's top three priorities when buying new clothes.

Vicki and I ask her about her process of styling a client and why she starts at the closet, not at the store.

Lindsey shares what she has learned along the way about color and enhancing that sense.

And we bring this episode full circle to creativity when we talk about my brother, Jay, who is also incredibly creative. She tells us about how living on a boat with no square corners constantly challenges their ingenuity. Lindsey tells us how they tackle it together.

This is a great episode about another facet of creativity – style. Lindsey gives us some great encouragement about how to be comfortable in our own skin.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode:

Episode 54 show notes

Lindsey's website: Style Lindsey

Lindsey Bauer on LinkedIn

Lindsey Bauer on Instagram: StyleLindsey1

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson share a cup of tea. They bring in one of Wynne's favorite quotes about tea from Mark Nepo. He likens tea to the way we make sense of our lives. From gathering the leaves, to pouring water over it, to drinking it slowly, we cultivate the aromatic blend that helps us and heals us. Both Vicki and Wynne like the ritual because it slows us down. Having a cup of tea is like an invitation to bring forward what we already know. Wynne shares her secret for how long I let it steep. And Vicki brings forward the treasures from her family that hold so much more than tea. Vicki shares a delightful book about making tea that has been a gift and a reminder to let the swirls of tea help settle our thoughts down. We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling over a cup of tea. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 89 show notes

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Vicki and Wynne talk with David from the Pinwheel in a Hurricane and Unwanted blogs.

David has so much to offer when it comes to the goodness of the creative process – for solidifying clarity, integration, and healing.

The tagline for David’s Pinwheel in a Hurricane blog is “an attempt at adding to the fray without just making noise.”

David tells us about his experience blogging for 10 years and how the first hurdle was just to believe that he had a voice.

We talk about sharing and telling stories – and how that allows all of our internal perspectives to come forward with their viewpoints.

And that “writing helps the swirly stuff in my brain have a soft place to land” to borrow a great phrase from David. A way to integrate ourselves and connect the dots.

David’s current focus is on practice and we love hearing how he’s reclaimed that word. Instead of the rigor and disciplinarian focus on practice as something that must be done to master anything, like a musical instrument, David is reimagining it as a word that holds space for kindness. As a gentle word that allows repetition to learn things he’s messed up before and to do it with self-compassion.

This is a great episode about the incredibly healing nature of what happens when we sit down to write. We love David’s viewpoint and experience as he brings forward all the goodness. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 53 show notes

Transcript for Episode 53 of the podcast

David's Pinwheel in a Hurricane blog

David's Unwanted Blog

David's recent post soft place that explains how writing helps the swirly stuff in the brain have a soft place to land

From the hosts:

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host Dr. Vicki Atkinson and they’re talking about unlocking secrets. Both Vicki and I have published books about family. Vicki about her mom, Sue, and me about my dad, Dick. As we’ve discussed in other podcasts, writing about family is hard.

But it’s also instructive - we learn so much about ourselves and where we come from. It’s a path that we’ve found to be so illuminating because we get to build on the secrets from those who went before.

Vicki talks about one of the secrets she learned which was not to keep secrets. Is it possible that underlying all or most of Sue’s issues was the toxicity of keeping secrets?

And what secrets did I learn from my dad? My dad had a formula for doing the next right thing, staying focused on what he was called to do, and then turning over the results to a Higher Power. The luxury I got was being able to talk to him about that as well as see him live it day in and day out.

Like Vicki was able to do with her dad, Sonny. Sonny had the 10-5 rule. Acknowledge people within 10 feet and greet them within 5 feet. It’s the kind of secret that carries itself forward in generational goodness.

Vicki and I have a great conversation about these secrets and more. We talk about all the benefits that come from writing about life. The secrets that we are able to pick up by diving down deep to find pearls of wisdom. It’s hard work – but the payoff is huge! Please join us in this episode as we share what we learned. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode: Episode 52 show notes

Wynne's post about her dad's formula for success: Fatherly Wisdom

Vicki's post about the 10-5 rule: Sunny Sonny

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with my co-host Dr. Vicki Atkinson and we’re talking with author and illustrator, Dave Williams.

I love bookstores and have a soft spot for any book written in them. Novels like The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield and The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin are two of my favorites.

But I’ve never met anyone that was raised in a bookstore – until now. Dave Williams grew up working in his grandparents bookstore – a converted Victorian house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

Dave shares about that experience and how it instilled the magic of stories. And then how it carried forward to passing on that magic to his twin daughters.

Vicki and I ask him how he developed his talent. He tells us how he set his writing and creativity aside for a time. That is, until he saw what fun his daughters were having at craft time when they were young girls.

We talk about working our way from writing what we think we should write to writing what lights our own creative fire. And how being curious and interested in lots of things helps spark ideas.

Dave shares his tips and tricks like asking “what if” questions and being inspired by the playfulness of kids. This is such a fun episode with the incredibly delightful and prolific, Dave Williams. We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Episode 51 show notes

Transcript for Episode 51 of the podcast

Dave's blog: Dave Williams

Dave's author page on Amazon: Dave Williams

We are celebrating our 50th podcast in this episode. We talk about my favorite quote as it relates to pulling ourselves together to start something – and then sticking with it.

Your first podcast will be awful.
Your first video will be awful.
Your first article will be awful.
Your first art will be awful.
Your first photo will be awful.
But you can't make your 50th without making your first.
So get it over with, and make it.

Vicki calls it the pancake quote - the first one out of the pan is never the best. For me, it is all about celebrating the art of practice. An ode to the process of becoming.

I wouldn’t say that every part has been awful. But there have been many things that have felt awkward. Working up the courage to ask strangers to be guests. Listening to our own voices. Finding our way to the heart of the matter.

So Vicki and I talk about the discoveries. Like the realization that at this age we aren’t coming at this from nothing – we get a boost by bringing our professional and personal knowledge to a new practice.

And the three things we learned:

1. Be prepared and organized – approaching a topic with a discussion points and a list of linked resources helps create a solid foundation for a good conversation.
2. People say “yes” – we have been so lucky that our esteemed guests have said “yes” to us. And as a bonus, they have also seemed to have fun doing podcasts with us.
3. Authenticity and respect will make up for lack of experience in many ways

One of the most wonderful parts of this journey has been our generous listeners. Thank you so much for coming along with us on this exploration. We are so grateful for your time and comments.

This is a great episode for anyone who is surfing the waves of learning something new. Come along with us and celebrate that practice might not make perfect (speaking for ourselves), but it can be so rewarding as we keep growing. I know you’ll love it.

Episode 50 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

The Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcast is back with its first episode of 2024! This year we are putting special emphasis on the why and how of creativity. We start the season with a special episode with Dr. Vicki Atkinson. We know and love our writing, blogging friend, and podcasting friend Vicki. But of course, dear Vicki has worn a lot of other hats – therapist, professor, college dean, and author.

And one of the places where her incredible experience wearing all these hats comes together? Six-word stories. On this podcast we get to learn about the history, benefits and examples of six-word stories from Dr. Victoria Atkinson.

We start with Vicki reading a post she wrote about six-word stories as it related to finding forgiveness process for her mom. She gives us the history of these powerful short stories as made popular by writer and publisher, Larry Smith.

Vicki tells us about the therapeutic value of forcing this brevity to check in and crystallize thoughts. She gives us a powerful reminder of how we can often feel more in control and on top of things when we package things in ways that feel like we can hold them in our hands.

Vicki gives us some wonderful examples of these potent and portable missives from her own life, and those shared by clients and students. She even circles back to one from our recent conversation with Dr. Gerald Stein: “I like to make new mistakes.”

Another one of my favorites comes from Vicki’s book, Surviving Sue and is about her mom, “She wore her regret like armor.” That carries the power of Vicki’s example of how crystallizing her thoughts helped her to build empathy and to find her way to forgiveness.

This is a great episode that celebrates the clarity that comes when we get quiet, the power that is unlocked when we write it out, and the gateway to growth that is opened when we use tools like six-word stories. We know you’ll love it.

Episode 49 show notes

Vicki's post: Peek Inside: “Surviving Sue” – Six-Word Style – Victoria Ponders

Larry Smith's site: Six-Word Memoirs – One Life, Six Words. What's Yours? (sixwordmemoirs.com)

Writing Our Lives in 6 Words | Psychology Today

How to Use 6-Word Memoirs in the Classroom | Edutopia

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Dr. Vicki Atkinson are back with the amazing blogger and author, Stuart Perkins.

We revisit a couple of Stuart’s recent pieces that highlight the kind of people who help us and inspire us to stay steady. Stuart writes so beautifully. Period. He hooks us and we get to come along for the ride. In this case, about the moments of doubt, and characters that help us to hold on. The people that make us want to be there for others when life feels unsteady.

In his essay, Hand on the Plow, his co-worker, Ms Wade was that influence. The grounded older woman who counseled Stuart as a new employee to exhibit determination in the wake of a mistake. Stuart tells us why she was so credible, and stuck with him for decades after they worked together.

We also chat about Stuart’s recent piece that was published in The Local Scoop magazine – Because Granddaddy Liked to Fish. His family roots are so strong, whether with Nanny on the farm or with Granddaddy on Chesapeake Bay. No wonder that Stuart can capture the feeling of family so well in his writing.

Because Stuart knows how to capture the hilarity of family and being together so well. He tells us the secret of family traditions and togetherness are how they are borne of balance, the long view, and a lot of laughter.

Please join us for this great episode of staying steady – in moments of doubt and also in the long view of family and tradition. We know you’ll love it!

On a programming note, we last episode in 2023. We’ll see you in 2024. Happy holidays.

Episode 48 show notes

Stuart's blog: Storyshucker

Hand on the Plow by Stuart Perkins

Because Granddaddy Liked To Fish in The Local Scoop magazine

In this podcast, which is episode two of a two-part series, Dr. Stein walks us through his list, How to Become Your Own Best Friend. This is one of our favorite essays from Dr. Stein which is saying a great deal given the depth and breadth of his wisdom.

In last week’s episode, we covered items focused on expanding our horizons to become both interesting and interested, making mistakes, self-compassion and advocating for ourselves and not overthinking things.

We continue in the vein of standing up for ourselves with do not explain, excuse or apologize because you believe someone else expects this. Dr. Stein walks us through this difficult but essential practice of being secure enough to stand our ground and also to say “no.”

One of my favorite phrases is from Roshi Joan Halifix – strong back, soft front. In that vein, we move to talk about Dr. Stein’s instruction that we allow love and kindness to emanate from our beings. This one is my personal favorite because I spent years surfing in my father’s wake of goodness. When we do the work to see others around us like the grocery clerks and people we pass by, and greet them warmly, we not only change the tenor in the air, but in ourselves as well.

And friends are always a benefit when we face disappointing and hard times. But Dr. Stein also explains that another way through is understanding that we’ll likely return to our set point after experiencing misfortune and unhappiness.

Dr. Stein says, “overcoming hardship will require a great deal of strength and willpower but it’s known we will return to our set point.”

This is a great episode full of the warm and wise advice of Dr. Stein. He proves an excellent guide past the pitfalls and into the fullness of a wonderful life. We know you’ll love it!

And if you haven’t already, read Dr. Stein’s complete list including my personal favorite, #29 “Empty your being of all your power, imagination, and grit. Use it up.” Also go back and listen to the first episode of Being Your Own Best Friend.

On a programming note, we will only be producing one more episode in 2023 after this one so that we can take a break for the holidays.

Episode 47 show notes

Dr. Gerald Stein's Blog: Dr. Gerald Stein

How to Become Your Own Best Friend by Dr. Gerald Stein

Other podcast episodes with Dr. Stein:

Episode 46: Being Your Own Best Friend With Dr. Gerald Stein - Part I

Episode 37: The Waiting Game with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 29: Accidental Philanthropists with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 20: The Art of the Interview with Dr. Gerald Stein

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson and psychologist and blogger, Dr. Gerald Stein. In this podcast, which is episode two of a two-part series, Dr. Stein walks us through his list, How to Become Your Own Best Friend. This is one of our favorite essays from Dr. Stein which is saying a great deal given the depth and breadth of his wisdom.

He opens the list with the question, “Who is the person closest to you?” If we are going to be our own best friend, how do we start?

Dr. Stein suggests that we start from by being good company. If we expand our interests, push our boundaries, and investigate new ideas, we can fill up from the inside out.

And when we grow, we will sometimes makes mistakes. Dr. Stein beautifully expands on his instruction that “Mistakes are inevitable. Master them. Please take steps to skip over their repetition.”

The next few instructions that Dr. Stein offers center around knowing our own place and value in relationship to others. His beautifully communicated points about having limits, becoming independent and pursuing advice speak the balance of knowing how to advocate for ourselves. If we are truly our own best friend, would we stick up for ourselves more?

I know one thing that my friends consistently help me with is with the timing of life. Dr. Stein exhorts us to be in the game of life and not to overthink. This gem of an instruction, especially paired with the others, speaks of being active participants in the events of life.

This is a great episode full of the warm and wise advice of Dr. Stein. He proves an excellent guide past the pitfalls and into the fullness of a wonderful life. We know you’ll love it!

And then come back next week for the second episode of Being Your Own Best Friend.

On a programming note, we will only be producing two more episodes in 2023 after this one so that we can take a break for the holidays.

Links for this episode:

Episode 46 show notes

Dr. Gerald Stein's Blog: Dr. Gerald Stein

How to Become Your Own Best Friend by Dr. Gerald Stein

Other podcast episodes with Dr. Stein:

Episode 37: The Waiting Game with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 29: Accidental Philanthropists with Dr. Gerald Stein

Episode 20: The Art of the Interview with Dr. Gerald Stein

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and we are talking about the courage to keep trying.

We open the podcast with some laughter about some silly stories with my kids where I’ve made mistakes. And it paves the way for a deep conversation about risk-taking, trying new things, and the journey to be vulnerable to others.

I share with Vicki some of the disappointment that I felt on her behalf when reading her book, “Surviving Sue” because Sue never saw her. We talked about how she armored up from an early age with Sue because of the mismatch between words and deeds coming from her mom.

But even through the low expectations, Vicki kept on showing up in order to care for Lisa and for Sue. So what did she learn about armor, vulnerability, and control? Vicki shares with us the wisdom of her toolkit for surviving disappointment, regardless of the source, by following her body cues and knowing that she can take back control.

We talk about all the lessons we’ve learned the hard way – and that the take-away is while it feels natural to try avoid being hurt, we opt for continuing to take risks. We dig in to the question of “what if I don’t?” that can be a great motivator.

And Vicki turns the tables on me for taking on the risk to talk with my dad about spirituality and faith. I open up about how my fear that if we talked about those things, knowing I didn’t see them the same way he did, that I risked feeling like my dear dad was disappointed in me. But Vicki gives me the gift of a great a-ha that positive regard that is based on assumptions, vagaries, or pretense isn’t really regard at all.

In this episode, we talk about how to switch out of disappointment by focusing on compassion for others. Risk – disappointment – vulnerability – big topics but we have a feel good conversation full of compassion for ourselves when we are disappointed, or for when we don’t want to take the chance, and appreciation for the opening that happens when we do take risks.

Disappointment isn’t easy but when you know that others have gone through it and see you, it makes the trip so much easier. Please risk a half hour of your time – you won’t be disappointed! In fact, we know you’ll love it.

P.S. The mention of Cooper in this episode refers to Wynne's new puppy.

Episode 42 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and her delightful daughter, Miss O.

Miss O shares a personal narrative that she's written as an assignment in 3rd grade. And then she tells us what a hook is and what she’s learned about drawing in an audience by using one. She fills us in on lessons that she’s been taught about adding details to her writing.

Another assignment she is working on in class is a piece of short fiction. Miss O tells us how she envisioned her main character, a piece of cute food, and teases us with a short summary about her story. Boy, do I have a lot to learn from her about how to deliver an elevator pitch for my writing.

So far, third grade has been full of interesting writing assignments including one to interview a family member. Miss O tells us about interviewing her cousin for that assignment and what she learned about how to get someone to open up and to listen when they do.

Miss O gently takes Vicki and I to task for some side giggles we get while talking with her, and somehow shows that she sees us, by noticing that we sometimes get carried away with delight. I think you’ll all understand when I say sometimes I can’t tell whether she’s eight or twenty-eight years old.

Finally we wrap up by talking about all the creative practices she does – writing, drawing, music and how they help her to express emotion. She fills us in on a sweet thing she’s been doing with her four-year-old younger brother, Mr. D. to help him do the same.

This is a fun episode filled with the enthusiasm and delight of youth. Miss O is someone I learn from on a regular basis and I think you will too. Please listen for inspiration and for some sweet smiles – we know you’ll love it!

Episode 45 show notes

Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk about meditative moments.

We think it’s fair to say that we all have times where life feels frenzied. And it isn’t only because our to-do lists get too long. It’s also because of the pace of the world around us, and our exposure to the news, in whatever way we consume it.

Both Vicki and Wynne start the day with sacred time for meditation. It’s non-negotiable for Wynne so that she can at least start the day with a measure of faith and perspective.

But we know that doesn’t work for everyone. So we talk about our tricks to instill some calm. Vicki tells us about how she sets aside multi-tasking to focus on one thing at a time. And more than that, how to slow tasks to reap the full benefit.

For Wynne, music can help to disrupt the stress swirl. Tuning in to songs from my youth delivers a noticeable energy lift as well. We touch on the research of Harvard psychology professor Dr. Ellen Langer about how our brains can impact our bodies.

It’s not hard to imagine that Vicki is an inveterate smile-r. She shares a story about how offering friendliness to others brings a side benefit of joy.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for the episode:

Episode 88 show notes

Episode 79: Sometimes You Have to Laugh with Author Pete Springer – The Heart of the Matter (sharingtheheartofthematter.com)

The Subtle Shaping of Our Brains – The Heart of the Matter (sharingtheheartofthematter.com)

Meditate on this! – The Heart of the Matter (sharingtheheartofthematter.com)

Write it Out – The Heart of the Matter (sharingtheheartofthematter.com)

Vicki’s book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode of the Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcast, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and writer and author, Brian Hannon. Brian is one of our colleagues on the Heart of the Matter blog and we love the inspiration he brings forward about writing and creativity on a regular basis. In this case, it was an article on Writer’s Digest by Sierra Godfrey entitled, 4 Ways to Write Complicated Families.

Oh boy. What family isn’t complicated? So we get Brian to talk about Sierra’s four points: pair the darkness with humor, use character imperfections, leave room for characters to grow, and have empathy.

The great thing about having good source material and a great writer to comment on it is that it adds up to a fantastic conversation about how to actually do it. Brian talks about writing about family members, whether in personal narratives or in fiction, from a three-dimensional viewpoint. We dig into the humor of Vicki’s book Surviving Sue as an example of how to lighten up the load that came with Sue’s dysfunction.

Brian asks me a great question about my book, Finding My Father’s Faith that is based on conversations that I had with my dad. Could we have talked in-depth about life, religion and spirituality ten years earlier than we did? Nope, because as Parker J. Palmer says, “The inner life of any great thing will be incomprehensible to me until I develop and deepen an inner life of my own.” I wouldn’t have been able to have those conversations until I was ready.

Timing is such a key to writing about family and the three of us talk about it. Vicki brings up the readiness factor – that we have to have done enough work in order to be able to follow Sierra Godfrey’s points to write full characters.

And through it all we affirm all that writing can do for us, especially when dealing with complicated characters and family. Brian borrows from Jerry Maguire, “It completes me.” We get to work through our stuff, leave room for our own growth as a character in the story, all the while leaving a story so that others know they aren’t alone.

This is a great episode about great tips that comes with writing about all the facets of family. We know you’ll love it.

Episode 44 show notes

Brian’s personal blog: Writing from the Heart with Brian

Sierra Godfrey article on Writer's Digest: 4 Ways to Write Complicated Families

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and blogger, Deb Tecca. Deb is one of our colleagues on the Heart of the Matter blog and we’ve loved her take on growth, acceptance, and personal evolution.

So we ask her about her courageous writing and she explains how she’s come to see it more as reclaiming herself. After growing up in the shadow of her mom’s blame, Deb finds she’s had a voice all along that she’s worked her way back to. Being courageous enough…pushing fear to the wayside….to allow the space for authenticity - Deb’s heart, soul and spirit. Her own voice.  The essence that is Deb.

We ask Deb about a recent description that our mutual colleague, Erin wrote about Deb and her blog, Closer to the Edge. In that description Erin encapsulates all that Deb writes about – kindness, community, family and trends. Then Erin sums it up with a description of Deb as “feisty and self-assured, yet kind and understanding.” Deb responds to that summary with a virtual hug for Erin – for seeing the glory in Deb’s feisty demeanor – a badge of courage and confidence from a dear blogging friend.  Sometimes our friends see our strengths before we do.

Vicki and I ask Deb about the courage to write about family when life was anything but sunshine and rainbows.  We ask about Deb’s process as she writes and true to form, our amazing, contemplative and thoughtful Deb tells us that long before she writes, her thoughts begin to take shape in her head and only then do words come together.   

And one of Deb’s strengths?  She’s a terrific listener, commenter, and thoughtful human.  She often writes what others might be thinking, contributing to conversations with depth and perspective. We laugh about the moments when Deb thinks she gone on a ‘rant’ and applaud her for knowing how to tailor her messages and points of view to provide input and insight.  If that’s a ‘rant’ – we love it. 

We ask Deb about her ‘secret sauce’ for prioritizing what matters most and in addition to her meal planning and love of nature, Deb’s picked up a few tried-and-true tricks that we know will resonate with listeners.  If they’re good enough for Deb, they’re great for the rest of us!   One of the tricks Deb has learned is to say “no.” So we are so grateful that Deb said “yes” to us to create this beautiful podcast. We know you’ll love it.

We've added transcript to our podcasts. See the link below.

Episode 43 show notes

Episode 43 transcript (provided by Otter AI): Reclaiming_Oneself_With_Deb_Tecca.pdf

Deb's blog: Closer to the Edge

Deb's post about reclaiming herself: Reclaiming Myself

Rooted: Life at the Crossroads of Science, Nature and Spirit by Lyanda Lynn Haupt

Are you ready for some spooky talk? In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and we are back with author and blogger, Mark Petruska. We hope you are ready for some fun because Mark has a story to tell  -- a spine-tingling paranormal tale if ever there was one!

Mark holds NOTHING back as he regales us with the disconcerting details about his night of inexplicable sights, sounds and sensations from a real-life haunted house.  We feed our inner “Ghost Busters” as Mark tells us about the technology that his friend, Steven, a professional ghost hunter, used in the investigation.

Note – there is a one sentence glancing mention of some trauma that purportedly happened to a young girl in the story.

But In between shivers and shakes, Vicki and Wynne chime in about a couple of our own head-scratcher experiences that might, like Mark’s ghost hunting, point to mysteries beyond our realm. 

Mark confesses – he’s really a skeptic at heart and his night in a haunted house changed him, and his view about the paranormal forever.  Calm and deliberate, Mark breaks down all the creepy events and we were simply awe-struck. The fact that one of the inhabitants was a police officer, looking out for his dear mom who was terrified and besieged in her own house adds an extra spooky glow to the story. 

This is an episode you will love…but maybe keep the lights on?  Listening to Mark – whether he’s talking about his ghostly adventure or his thriller of a book, No Time for Kings,  will entrance you.  Almost literally…..bwah ha…ha…ha.

Make sure you listen until the very end when we ask Mark the million-dollar question about his conclusions and beliefs – after his experience as a real-life ghost buster.  You will love his answer…we know it.  

So, ENTER this podcast IF YOU DARE….Who Ya Gonna Call? Mark Petruska!

Episode 41 show notes

Confronting Her Demons HoTM blog post by Mark

Mark’s Blog: Mark My Words

⁠No Time for Kings⁠ by Mark Petruska – a fantastic eco-thriller!

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with my co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and they are talking about choice and Wynne's journey to parenthood.

Following up on the question a pre-school teacher asked Wynne about how she became a parent, she shares the story of how she started a family as a single person. From the fertility clinic doctor who laid out all the options for getting pregnant as a 45-year-old single woman to some of the interesting facts I learned about in-vitro fertilization along the way, she share the answers that are part of my process.

With Vicki as a trusted guide, we talk about the role that agency and self-determination played in not only choosing to have kids but also as a part of parenting. Wynne often call the power of choice my secret for digging deep on the days that she doesn’t have enough in the tank. Knowing that she's living the life that she's chosen and doing it her own way gives Wynne the extra charge to step it up and also be so grateful for the life that she has.

In this vulnerable podcast, Wynne reveals the fears that I’ve had to work through to become a single parent. How she knew that she was opening herself up to the opinions of others when it comes to building family in a non-traditional way and how those opinions have sometimes been surprising. We talk about Brene Brown and Joseph Campbell’s The Hero’s Journey and how sometimes getting to where we need to go has to pass directly through the heart of vulnerability.

Wynne's often written about intertwined the cycle of birth and death was for me. She wrote my book about her dear father in the wake of his sudden death in a bicycle accident almost nine years ago as she was pregnant with Miss O. Vicki teases out the lessons that Wynne gleaned from her dad's special sparkle that Wynne uses in parenting. His specialties of love, curiosity, openness and faith directly come to play as Wynne navigates trying to parent my two precious kids.

And then we end with an incredible question that Vicki asks about what advice Wynne would give to her previous self to guide her through this journey to parenthood that I’ve gone on. It makes Wynne cry to think of all that I’ve gone through in the last ten years, and all the support she's had from family and friends. She talk through some of the quotes and inspiration that have kept her inspired along the way.

This is a deeply personal and wonderfully warm episode about what it looks like when we flip our scripts from fear to love and walk our individual paths through life – and the blessing of great company along the way. We know you’ll love it!

Episode 40 show notes

Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders

Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy

Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith