What drives happiness? Actually, what is happiness? It sounds so vague, like "puppy dogs and rainbows," doesn't it? Well, today, we're going to define it, get our hands wrapped around how you measure it + see what the key drivers for happiness really are. Our guest Meik Wiking is the founder + CEO of The Happiness Research Institute, is improving the quality of life across the globe and has consulted with the Danish government and the city of Goyang in South Korea among others to increase key dr...
May 09, 2019•41 min•Season 10Ep. 148
We've been producing these Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moment segments for two months. I hope they're giving you a quick burst of inspiration to start your week ON FIRE . Today I share a preview of this Thursday's guest Meik Wiking, founder + CEO of The Happiness Research Institute. Meik's native Denmark routinely ranks highest in United Nations Happiness Report, inspiring his six-year journey to discover what drives human happiness + how to increase it around the globe. On Thursday, Meik joins...
May 06, 2019•3 min•Season 10Ep. 147
Singer-songwriter Walker Hayes shares his unlikely path to the top of the Country Music Billboard Charts. You'll hear the stories behind the songs on his latest album, boom., like platinum-hit You Broke Up with Me about losing a record deal and Craig, which is a tribute to a life-changing friendship. More exceptional than hearing "behind the scenes" stories of big Nashville country music are the raw conversations Walker and I have in between – about life, loss, love, sobriety, failing and trying...
May 02, 2019•1 hr 19 min•Season 10Ep. 146
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our "Monday Moments" segments. Today, I share a story submitted by Grace M. of Naperville, IL, a listener + Live Inspired community member. Grace shared that some of her favorite Live Inspired Podcast guests include 5x New York Times bestselling author Brené Brown ( ep. 103 ) and lawyer-turned-bestselling author Bob Goff ( ep. 115 ). If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to m...
Apr 29, 2019•7 min•Season 10Ep. 145
You know the beloved children's classic Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day? Today we talk with the amazing author, Judith Viorst! Judith shares her warmth, wisdom + cheeky humor about what it's like to write books across genres for more than six decades – and what it was like not getting published for her first three decades! In honor of national poetry month, Judith will read an excerpt from her "decades series" most recent is her book Nearing Ninety: And Other Comedies...
Apr 25, 2019•54 min•Season 10Ep. 144
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our "Monday Moments" segments. We've had nearly 120 guests on the Live Inspired Podcast. As you know, at the end of the interview, each guest answers the Live Inspired 7 questions, with the first question being: What's the best book you've ever read? As we gear up to celebrate World Book Day, I want to share the most mentioned books by our guests. The Bible has been mentioned by 11 guests including my mentor Brian Buffini from ep. 1 and hu...
Apr 22, 2019•6 min•Season 10Ep. 143
We live, play and work at an ever-increasing pace, amidst a lot of noise – yelling, fear, anxiety, texting, streaming, email. In this environment, we long for hope and humanity, but often give more reactive responses than ever. Today, we identify how we can influence our daily moments to make them more inspired. Rand Stagen, Managing Director of Stagen Leadership Academy, joins us to share how to create a little space between key stimuli – think of your triggers: a colleague's sarcasm, your spou...
Apr 18, 2019•51 min•Season 10Ep. 142
I had so much fun talking with my new friend + country music star Walker Hayes, that we stayed on the phone for two hours ! We only had 45 minutes scheduled for his interview. That , my friends, has never happened before. I couldn't wait to share a little of the fun with you. So today, you get a preview! Get the entire conversation on upcoming Live Inspired Podcast ep. 146. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Insp...
Apr 15, 2019•4 min•Season 10Ep. 141
Almost 13 years ago, I read Judith Shulevitz's New York Times article Taking Back Sabbath and still today, it has a profound effect on me. As a society, we've put such an emphasis on work and being busy and this article reminds us of the importance of Sabbath, what "Sabbath" is and what it means in all of our lives – regardless of our faith background. Today, our conversation with Judith will challenge you to build a pause into your week, nourish your community and remember that you are so much ...
Apr 11, 2019•42 min•Season 10Ep. 140
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our "Monday Moments" segments. Today, we celebrate National Sibling's Day this Wednesday, April 10 by reaching out to your sibling (or chosen sibling!) to share your love + gratitude for them. Listen to Live Inspired Podcast ep. #88 to hear the heroic acts of my siblings that saved my life 30 years ago and three ways to enhance your adult sibling relationships. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts ...
Apr 08, 2019•4 min•Season 10Ep. 139
I've been so eager to bring Sparsh Shah onto the Live Inspired Podcast since I was first introduced to him in March 2017. Fifteen-year-old Sparsh shares about being born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or "Brittle Bone Disease", and how he hasn't let it define his life. Sparsh, also known by his rapper name Purythem, went viral with his rendition of Eminem's Not Afraid and since sang the National Anthem at Madison Square Garden . He radiates positivity while owning his disability with awe-inspirin...
Apr 04, 2019•50 min•Season 10Ep. 138
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our "Monday Moments" segments. Today, I take pause to celebrate Doctor's Day and share the important role play in all our lives. With a special shout out to my childhood physician, Dr. Tsifutis, who I recently got to have lunch with and thank in person. I reference the three lessons I learned from my burn doctors that I still live by today. Hear about these and how they apply in your life on one of our most listened to episodes: Live Inspi...
Apr 01, 2019•4 min•Season 10Ep. 137
The Kindness Diaries, streaming on Netflix, is a series that follows Leon Logothetis as he travels the world relying solely on the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected, inspiring ways. Leon joins us to share how a once "lonely kid" grew up to be a successful stock broker and then, upon discovering his passion for human connection and kindness, has embarked on the adventure of a lifetime. His new book, Go Be Kind , and this conversation will leave you ready to do exactly that. ...
Mar 28, 2019•44 min•Season 10Ep. 136
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our "Monday Moments" segments. Today, my friends, we are stepping into spring! Nature is blossoming in front of us; offering a reminder that the best in life is yet to come. Today, let's celebrate the three life lessons my beautiful magnolia tree offers. I promise, they will get you ready to launch into spring + beyond. Three lessons from magnolia trees: Life is seasonal. Loss is painful and leads to opportunities for growth. Life happens ...
Mar 25, 2019•7 min•Season 10Ep. 135
"You can't imagine your life without it, but you desperately want to let it go." This is addiction as defined by today's guest, Fr. Tom Hoar, President + CEO of Enders Island Retreat Center, a treatment facility that helps addicted adults. More than seven million Americans struggle with some form of addiction. Today, Fr. Tom debunks an often-taboo topic by sharing stories of redemption and healing – including his own. Don't miss this critical conversation or the life-changing intent behind Fr. T...
Mar 21, 2019•37 min•Season 10Ep. 134
Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. Today, I share a sneak peek from upcoming Live Inspired Podcast guest Fr. Tom Hoar and, his poignant question "have you had enough" + what asking it could mean in your life. Thank you to my dear friend, Live Inspired community member Mary B. for recommending Fr. Tom Hoar! If you have questions or feedback, you can always send them to me a...
Mar 18, 2019•4 min•Season 10Ep. 133
Michele Cushatt is a self-proclaimed expert of trauma, pain and the deep need for human connection. As a three-time cancer survivor, mother of six, author and speaker, Michele's warmth, strength and transparency will remind you that you're not alone. Michele shares her story, how hope got her through her struggles and how it will help you through yours. Today, you'll be reminded that your best days remain in front of you to live a more inspired life. SHOW NOTES: Fear + worry give a false sense o...
Mar 14, 2019•57 min•Season 10Ep. 132
Every Monday moving forward, join me for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. This week, I answer questions submitted from three Live Inspired community members. Tune in to hear my answers! Lisa K. asked: Have you interviewed anyone that has left you speechless? You've had so many amazing guests. Which has been your favorite, and why? And who are some of your "dream" guests? Chris F. asked: Do you h...
Mar 11, 2019•10 min•Season 10Ep. 131
During his eleven years as a business leader at Build-A-Bear Workshop, Manley Feinberg implemented solutions inspired by his extreme outdoor adventures in the Himalayas, Uzbekistan and El Capitan in Yosemite. Today, Manley shares compelling tales from the trails that led to lessons in leadership that will help you overcome your challenges and live more inspired. SHOW NOTES: Courage is contagious, a lesson Manley learned early from his mom and lives by today. Get On Belay! A belay is a tool used ...
Mar 07, 2019•46 min•Season 10Ep. 130
Every Monday moving forward, join me for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. Today, I share a story submitted by Mike F. of Alton, Illinois, one of our Live Inspired community members. Mike has done something truly amazing by applying the Live Inspired 7 – the questions we ask every guest at the end of our Live Inspired Podcast episodes – to his own life... You'll love the result. Ask your loved on...
Mar 04, 2019•7 min•Season 10Ep. 129
Gary Sinise is an award-winning actor – most notably is his Oscar-nominated role of Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump. This role reshaped the trajectory of Gary's life; not because of the acclaim for the film, but because it ignited a relentless drive in him to champion veterans' sacrifices and ensure they're never forgotten. Gary's philanthropy has made him a beloved to countless and earned him prestigious awards including: Presidential Citizens Medal, Honorary Battalion Chief by New York City Fir...
Feb 28, 2019•49 min•Season 10Ep. 128
Every Monday moving forward, join me for a quick burst of inspiration during Monday Moments. Each week, I'll cover a different topic that will spark you to live more inspired. I am honored to be joined by my dear friend Dennis Gillan to discuss a topic that desperately needs to be revisited: suicide prevention. Today, we will break down the stigma around mental health and how to better care for ourselves + others who are struggling or suffering with suicide. Take this powerful episode as reminde...
Feb 25, 2019•31 min•Season 10Ep. 127
SoulPancake is an entertainment company with a mission to make the world a better place. How? By creating content that explores meaningful topics with integrity, heart + humor. You've likely seen some of their viral hits (that have amassed nearly one billion views!) like Kid President , Tell My Story + My Last Days . Shabnam Mogharabi, co-founder, shares the best tips she's discovered while curating the signature SoulPancake content for 10 years. SHOW NOTES It doesn't matter what you do, just tr...
Feb 21, 2019•53 min•Season 10Ep. 126
In honor of Valentine's Day I went deep into the vault -- we're over 100 episodes deep now! -- to feature one of our resident love experts Les Parrott. He'll give us practical tips to love (and live!) more inspired. This episode originally aired in June 2017. Les is a co-creator of the match-making software behind eHarmony, psychologist, professor, author, husband, and father. He's shared his expertise with Oprah, Barbara Walters, and Tom Brokaw and today he shares it with us. Are you ready to i...
Feb 14, 2019•54 min•Season 10Ep. 125
Are you ready to celebrate Valentine's Day right this year? This holiday is about so much more than Hallmark cards and boxes of heart-shaped chocolates. It's about the power of love - all love not just romantic love - in our lives. I'll share two love letters I've written, the life-changing impact they've had and challenge you to write one, too. [The winner of the challenge will get a $100 gift card to take their loved-one to their favorite restaurant.] Today's episode will leave you ready to li...
Feb 07, 2019•28 min•Season 10Ep. 124
The book Proof of Heaven ignited a conversation around the globe about how heaven can be scientifically proven by examining near-death-experiences (NDE). It shared the NDE of the author, neurosurgeon Eben Alexander, MD, and it soared to the top of the New York Times bestsellers list. Today we are joined by Dr. Alexander to discuss his NDE, how it changed his understanding of science, the world we live in today, the life beyond it and what it means in your inspired life. SHOW NOTES Dr. Alexander ...
Jan 31, 2019•44 min•Season 10Ep. 123
Embracing your emotions at work is the key to being more fulfilled, genuine + professional. Liz Fosslien, co-author + illustrator of the just-released book No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work , joins us to share how to recognize, understand + channel emotions to be the best versions of ourselves. This light-hearted conversation will help you value and feel your emotions so you can live + work more inspired. SHOW NOTES: Suppressing emotions is not sustainable. Process...
Jan 24, 2019•56 min•Season 10Ep. 122
True or false: The world is worse than ever before. FALSE. My friends, today's guest shares hard facts as to why this is the best time in human history. He'll expose which elements of your life are making you feel otherwise. Most importantly, he'll share the value of recapturing a true, positive perspective + what it could mean for your relationships, business, life + world. Gregg Easterbrook is the New York Times Bestselling author of the book It's Better Than It Looks: Reasons for Optimism in ...
Jan 17, 2019•52 min•Season 10Ep. 121
Today we discuss a topic that many families are dealing with quietly, quietly... 72,000 Americans died from drug overdose last year. That's a two-fold increase in a decade. I'm sure you've heard similar stats like this in the news, along with headlines including words such as "opioid crisis" + "heroine epidemic." Today, my friend Steve Grant joins us to share his story, how this epidemic has deeply touched his life + what it means for you on your journey to live inspired. SHOW NOTES: Learn more ...
Jan 10, 2019•51 min•Season 10Ep. 120
Today's episode is about you. Specifically, how to make sure 2019 is absolutely your best year yet. I'll give you a peek at the exercise (created by Jinny Ditzler) I complete every year to ensure I have my best possible year. Since starting this process 10+ years ago, I've: Become more inspired + stayed focused on living inspired Improved my spiritual health + focused on my marriage Built a speaking business Written ON FIRE , which became a #1 national bestseller + has been translated into 12 la...
Jan 03, 2019•16 min•Season 10Ep. 119
