Category: howtoshare

What Do You Know To Be True?

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , , 48 Comments

“You never fail until you stop trying.” – Albert Einstein

I suspect that my podcast guests rarely listen back to the episodes that they record with me. After all, they lived it once, why listen to it again? (Anyone that has podcasted with me or Vicki, feel free to jump in and contradict me on this!)

And, speaking for myself, there’s a smidge of fear when watching myself that I’ll discover something terribly wrong that I said or spinach in my teeth that I can’t undo.

But there’s a huge upside in listening back to what we’ve recorded in that it helps to see ourselves from another angle.

I recently was a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the incredible host, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversations at the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.

Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal their superpower. Watching back the episode I did with him, I was blown away by how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. [It also reminds me that I like to talk with my hands and tell a lot of climbing stories!]

In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation, Roger and I talk about:

  • How my electrical engineering background helped me develop my superpower
  • Why trying is different than persistence
  • How mountain climbing helped shape and shift my ability to try
  • What my system is for creating order when trying
  • How trying helps keep us from being stuck
  • How documenting what we’ve tried helps us to pass on the learning to others

Here’s the podcast episode on What Do You Know to Be True?

Other ways to watch this episode:

  • Apple podcasts and Spotify: How To Overcome the Fear of Failure & Feeling Stuck | Wynne Leon
  • YouTube: How to Overcome the Fear of Failure & Feeling Stuck | Wynne Leon on

Links for this episode:

What Do You Know To Be True? website

What Do You Know to Be True? on YouTube

Roger Kastner on LinkedIn

How to Share A Return Home

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , 45 Comments

“The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” – Joseph Campbell

I lived in the Philippines until I was almost seven-years-old. When I went back to visit with my family 22 years later, I was surprised that I could navigate a few streets near where we used to live. It was like a pull that oriented me to where I spent the first years of my life.

So I related to Mario Cartaya’s phrase of letting the subconscious guide when he shared his emotional journey back to Cuba after 56 years on the How to Share podcast. Mario has written a touching and insightful memoir about that trip, Journey Back Into the Vault.

Mario tells us how his family’s rushed departure from Cuba as a nine-year-old left him with a vault of childhood memories that he couldn’t unlock. Mario shares stories from his 1-week journey back to Cuba that helped him unlock the memories in that vault. We talk about how so many magical moments unfolded as he visited the scenes of his childhood.

We talk about the close-knit sense of community in Cuba. Mario tells us about the Cuban diaspora and how the pain of separation affects families on both sides.

Mario tells us about his current project chronicling the historic friendship that the US and Cuba once shared.

Mario is a wonderful guest who delivers a strong sense of hope for whatever divides us and a reminder that we can all work to find our own inner peace and deliver it to this world. I know you’ll love this episode and his book, Journey Back Into the Vault!

Key Themes:

  • Mario’s traumatic departure from Cuba in 1960
  • The vault of childhood memories and their significance
  • Revisiting childhood homes and places in Cuba
  • The impact of family separation and diaspora
  • The historic friendship between the US and Cuba from 1860-1960
  • Mario’s current project on US-Cuba relations

Check out this short clip of Mario’s deep and insightful elevator pitch for Journey Back Into the Vault:

Here are some ways you can watch or listen to all of this fascinating and compelling episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How to Share a Return Home Transcript

Journey Back Into the Vault on Barnes and Noble and Amazon

Mario Cartaya’s website

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How to Share a Mission

Posted in howtoshare, UncategorizedTagged , , , , , , , , , 48 Comments

”There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots, the other is wings.” – Hodding Carter

In the days when I watched tv (somewhere about a decade ago before I had kids and started going to bed early so I could wake up early enough to write in that hour before they wake up), I really enjoyed watching Dancing with the Stars. There is something fascinating about watching someone translate their skills from one arena to another. Like when a football player does a ballroom dance and it reveals something essential about what they bring no matter the format.

It reminds me of the guest I spoke with on the How to Share podcast this week. Anthony Dyer was special missions aviator for the US Air Force for 20 years. Now he’s written a gripping memoir, Moon Child: Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator. In it you see his courage. First on the battlefield and then in his vulnerability in writing about it.

Anthony knows how to bring it. Here’s a short excerpt that gives a taste of his inspirational courage:

“In gambling, playing with house money means you’re ahead, taking risks with what you’ve already won. That’s exactly how I wanted to exist earthside: bold, fearless, and unburdened by the fear of losing. Life itself was the ultimate win, and I was determined to make the most of it. Living a ‘house money life’ means living with the mindset that you’re already ahead and willing to take the risks with what you’ve already achieved without fearing losing. It’s about embracing life’s uncertainties and challenges and making the most of every opportunity.” – Anthony Dyer, Moon Child: Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator.

Anthony tells us how he went from a childhood in Appalachia to becoming a special missions aviator for the US Air Force. We talk about how his desire to make a difference in the world led to a 20-year-career in the military.

He reveals how he healed from the visible and invisible wounds of war, healing by picking up a pen instead of a bottle. He tells us how he met his wife and what their mission is now.

Anthony has so many incredible insights about how to live fully, heal, and integrate traumatic experiences. He tells us what motto is inspiring him today. This is a great episode with an insightful author who takes life by the horns. I know you’ll love it.

Takeaways

  • Anthony chose writing over alcohol to heal from trauma.
  • The importance of aviate, navigate, communicate in life.
  • Healing can come from vulnerability and sharing stories.
  • Family plays a crucial role in personal healing.
  • God can help you rebuild after trauma.
  • Scars are badges of honor, representing resilience.
  • Conversations with God can lead to personal growth.
  • Fatherhood is Anthony’s most important mission now.
  • Roots and wings symbolize balance in life.

Here’s a great clip of Anthony talking about how writing has helped heal the wounds of war:

Here are some ways you can watch or listen to all of this fascinating and inspiring episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How to Share a Mission Transcript

Moon Child: Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator on Barnes and Noble and Amazon

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How to Share Your Superpower

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , 61 Comments

“It may be that you are not yourself luminous, but that you are a conductor of light. Some people without possessing genius have a remarkable power of stimulating it.” – Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

As you can imagine, there’s a lot of chatter going on in Seattle about the Seahawks after they won Super Bowl LX this past weekend. I heard a story the other day about head coach, Mike Macdonald. He was being interviewed and the reporter asked him something like “What’s so special about you?” Apparently, Mike just sat there silently thinking about that question and never came up with an answer. Chalk one up for Mike Macdonald’s humility.

But this week’s How To Share guest, Roger Kastner, says only about half the people he asks can name their superpower. As a podcast host and producer of the What Do You Know to Be True? podcast, Roger has a gift for teasing out people’s superpowers. He is a fantastic facilitator of meaningful conversations—inviting accomplished guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.

In this episode you can see and hear his deep passion for connection, curiosity, and the power of reflective dialogue. Roger’s mission is to share the learning and practices that help people thrive, build capabilities, and unlock purpose and potential.

Roger’s theme for this season of What Do You Know To Be True? is joy. Fitting because Roger shows how good he is at fostering joy through laughter, appreciation and the act of creating.

This is a fantastic episode with a powerful guest who knows how to bring out the best in others. I know you’ll love it!

Takeaways

  • Heart and mind alignment is essential for personal growth.
  • Superpowers are connected to our purpose in life.
  • Curiosity and empathy are key themes in discovering our superpowers.
  • Creating frameworks helps individuals and teams thrive.
  • Connection with others enhances our ability to share our superpowers.
  • Joy is accessible even in challenging times.
  • AI can handle probabilities, but humans excel in exploring possibilities.
  • Sharing knowledge and experiences fosters community and growth.

So — tell me, what is your superpower?

Here’s a great clip of Roger describing the mission behind What Do You Know To Be True?

Here are some ways you can watch or listen to all of this insightful and helpful episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How to Share Your Superpower Transcript

What Do You Know to Be True? website

What Do You Know to Be True? on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Roger Kastner on LinkedIn

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How to Share Perspective

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , , 51 Comments

“Regret for the things we did can be tempered by time; it is regret for the things we did not do that is inconsolable.” – Sydney Smith

I’ve told this story before but it still cracks me up. When my daughter was three-years- old, I asked her how many houses she could see when she looked out the ground floor window of our house, it was about three.

Then I took her up to the floor above and ask her how many she could see and it was about seven.

Finally we went out onto the little deck on our rooftop and I asked her how many she could see and it was more than she had numbers for. “Miss O” I said “this is the perspective that you get when you are older, you know that everything fits into a larger picture and you are able to see more of it.”

Miss O’s eyes got wide and she looked at me like I was a crazy lady. I admit, that lesson was a little before it’s time. But I love a good dose of perspective. It’s one of the reasons I enjoyed this latest How to Share podcast conversation with author and educator Andrea Simon about her wonderful book, Did You Live the Life You Wanted?

We talk about perspective, regret and the meaning of life. She tells us why she choose to write this story as a novel and how the course she taught about how to write about family plays into her writing.

There are so many fantastic female friendships and characters in this book that spans 50 years. Andrea talks about how she asked men and women if they lived the life they wanted and what she learned differs when women and men answer that question.

We talk about the meaning of life and how writing plays into that. Andrea’s incredible experience as an educator and facilitator shines through as we dig into the depth of life and how we share it.

This is a great episode full of perspective and wisdom with a thoughtful guest. I know you’ll love it.

Takeaways

  • The novel spans 50 years, highlighting female friendships.
  • Writing about family requires sensitivity and respect.
  • Men and women often have different perspectives on life choices.
  • Older women may feel they had fewer options in their careers.
  • Regret can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
  • It’s important to pursue personal desires as we age.

Here’s Andrea’s fabulous elevator pitch for her novel Did You Have the Life You Wanted?:

Here are some ways you can watch or listen to all of this insightful and helpful episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How to Share Perspective transcript

Andrea Simon’s website

Did You Have the Life You Wanted? on Barnes & Noble, and Amazon

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How to Share Compassionate Stories that Inspire and Connect

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , 49 Comments

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.” – Maya Angelou

The other day, as I was driving my kids home from school, a car cut in front of me and then sped off. My 10-year-old daughter said from the back seat, “Wow, that was rude.” And she wasn’t wrong.

But we often play a game where we imagine why someone might have done something that irritated us. Like with the driver of that car:

  • “Maybe they were grossed out by the bathrooms at Tiger Mountain and are racing home to go instead.”
  • “Maybe they are going to the airport to meet a long lost friend and have to buy some Top Pot donuts on the way.”
  • “Maybe they just realized they left a lasagna in the oven and were supposed to take it out…three hours ago.”

This game doesn’t just amuse us – it makes us feel better. It creates some compassion for the other person and shifts us out of our indignation.

It also makes for a better story and resonates with social psychologist, writer, and editor Anne Beall’s wisdom about compassion. On the How To Share podcast, I recently sat down with Anne to explore the ideas behind her book The Compassionate Writer. Anne shares her journey from researcher to founder of the Chicago Story Press Literary Magazine and offers a compelling elevator pitch for her transformative approach to writing with compassion.

We dive into the four pillars of compassionate writing—compassion for ourselves, for others, for the reader, and throughout the writing process—and discuss how these practices can elevate both storytelling and personal growth. Anne also breaks down the thoughtful structure of her book, which blends explanation, real‑world examples, practical exercises, writing prompts, and guided visualizations to help writers deepen their craft.

In this podcast episode, you’ll hear Anne reflect on her unique superpower of seeing stories from a fresh perspective, how her background shaped that lens, and why it can be both an asset and a challenge. We also explore her other works, including Cinderella Didn’t Live Happily Ever After, and talk about the impact of fairy tales and how reframing their messages can empower us.

If you’re looking for inspiration, creative insight, or tools to become a more mindful and empathetic writer, this conversation is packed with value. It’s a rich, energizing episode you won’t want to miss!

Takeaways

  • Compassion is essential for effective storytelling.
  • Understanding our own narratives requires empathy.
  • Writers should be gentle with themselves during the process.
  • Compassion for the reader enhances engagement.
  • Psychological biases affect how we perceive our writing.
  • Different learning styles require varied teaching methods.
  • Visualizations can aid in the writing process.
  • Seeing stories from multiple perspectives enriches writing.
  • The tone of writing can create a more relatable experience.

Here’s a fabulous short clip of Anne telling why compassion makes such a difference in our writing:

Here are some ways you can watch or listen to all of this insightful and helpful episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How to Share Compassionate Stories That Inspire and Connect transcript

The Compassionate Writer on Barnes & Noble, and Amazon

Anne Beall’s website

Anne Beall on Substack

Chicago Story Press Literary Journal

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How to Share Music

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , 30 Comments

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the wind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” – Plato

I’ve seen it on Hallmark cards, Instagram, Facebook, and journal covers. It’s the image of someone doing something gutsy like jumping over a chasm with the words, “Leap and the net will appear.”

I think I’ve found variations of this idea in every spiritual tradition and book of writing advice that I’ve studied. There is something powerful in setting your sights on something and THEN figuring how to make it happen.

Hearing someone else’s story about how they did this is pure inspirational gold. In this episode of the How to Share podcast, author and educator Nancy Shear tells her story of leaping. She was 15 years old when she first heard the Philadelphia Orchestra. She knew she had hear more but she didn’t have the price of the ticket. Through patience and pluck she figured out how to go in by the stage door – and that led to the amazing stories she tells in her book, I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms.

Nancy and I talk about how sneaking in through the back door of the Philadelphia Orchestra opened so many fascinating doors in her life such landing the job as the assistant librarian to the Philadelphia Orchestra at age 17. We get to ride along with Nancy to meet all the incredible people she got to know including the wonderfully charismatic conductor Leopold Stokowski who starred in Disney’s Fantasia to the incredible cellist Mstislav Rostropovich.

Nancy lets us in on so many fantastic aspects of the workings of an orchestra and I reveal some of the ways her book changed how I listen to a performance. Her nerve, grit, and storytelling will leave you amazed and inspired. I know you’ll love this conversation with the delightful Nancy Shear.

Here are some favorite quotes:

  • “If you have no choice, then you make a life.”
  • “Money is not necessary; it led to my going backstage and meeting all these people.”
  • “Beauty still matters in this battered world.”
  • “What is to lose? You’re walking into a room of human beings.”
  • “Writing the book was where the courage really came in.”

And here’s Nancy telling the story of sneaking in to the Philadelphia Orchestra:

Here are some ways you can watch this fascinating and delightful episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

How To Share Music transcript

I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms by Nancy Shear on Barnes & Noble, Amazon and Simon & Schuster

Nancy Shear’s website: https://nancyshear.com/

From the host:

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

(quote from Jennie Fitzkee – Edelweiss)

How to Share Snapshots of the American Dream

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , 46 Comments

“Knowledge increases by sharing, not by saving.” – Kamari aka Lyrical

Somehow I ended up as the keeper of a friend’s family photo albums. From time to time I’ll walk by an album and flip it open to a random scene from the 1960’s – his family all posed for a vacation photograph or one of a Christmas morning. And I’ll wonder, did it feel the same way to be in his family as it did mine?

One of things I find fascinating about when we share our stories is how they land for other people. It’s that chance to find out that we’re not alone in our experience and also that every family has its own flavor of wacky.

In this episode of the How to Share podcast, my co-host Vicki Atkinson and I are with author and educator Gloria Golec talking about her family memories.

We talk about acclaimed author and educator Gloria’s heartwarming new memoir, South Side Memories. This captivating book invites you on a journey through vivid snapshots of family, Polish immigrant heritage, and the vibrant streets of Chicago. With every page, Gloria masterfully reveals how cherished memories shaped her life and inspired her path.

We uncover the power of storytelling as Gloria shares how writing helped her stay connected to her roots and loved ones. She generously reveals the secrets to starting—and finishing—a personal project that might seem daunting at first, making it accessible for anyone ready to share their own story.

South Side Memories isn’t just a memoir; it’s a celebration of identity and resilience. Through Gloria’s uplifting narrative, you’ll learn how sharing your story can touch hearts and inspire others. This is a must-listen for anyone who values heritage, family, and the transformative magic of storytelling. Don’t miss your chance to be inspired—fall in love with South Side Memories today.

Takeaways

  • The book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences.
  • Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones.
  • Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth.
  • Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity.
  • Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships.
  • Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings.
  • Teaching experiences can influence one’s writing and storytelling approach.
  • Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer.
  • Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time.
  • Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community.

Here’s Gloria describing her captivating book, South Side Memories:

Here are some ways you can watch this compelling and inspiring episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

Links for this episode:

How To Share Snapshots of the American Dream transcript

Gloria Golec’s profile on Eckhartz Press

South Side Memories on Eckhartz Press

From the hosts:

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

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How To Share: International Lawyer to Thriller Writer

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , , , 38 Comments

“Be not afraid of going slowly, be afraid of standing still.” – Chinese Proverb

When A. Marc Ross in college, he made a deal with his dad so that he could spend a couple of summers writing. He’d spend half a day writing and half a day working around the house. By the end of the deal he realized that he wasn’t ready to match the literary giants of the time.

So he went to law school. After a successful career as an international lawyer, Marc was ready to circle back to that dream of writing. He’s now published two thrillers with two more on the way.

I love Marc’s story because it reassures me that it’s never too late to pursue our lifelong dreams. It also reminds me that our experience along the way is helpful. In his book, Attacking the Dragon, Marc’s knowledge of China gained from his work as an international lawyer is part of what makes the action and intrigue so compelling.

My co-host Vicki Atkinson and I had a fascinating conversation with Marc on the How to Share podcast about his fabulous geopolitical thriller and his journey as a writer. We celebrate the art of reinvention—exploring how accomplished professionals like Marc transform their expertise into page-turning fiction and embark on a thrilling second act as authors. We get to hear firsthand how Marc turned his lifelong dream of writing novels into reality, overcoming challenges along the way.

This episode is packed with intrigue, inspiration, and actionable insights for anyone looking to excel not just in one career, but two! Don’t miss your chance to meet Marc Ross and fall in love with Attacking the Dragon—a must-read for fans of international suspense and powerful storytelling

Takeaways:

  • Marc Ross’s book ‘Attacking the Dragon’ explores China’s geopolitical landscape.
  • The Belt and Road Initiative is a significant yet under-discussed topic.
  • Ross aims to portray China as a victim rather than an aggressor in his narrative.
  • His legal background provides a unique perspective on the thriller genre.
  • Character names in Chinese culture are complex but manageable for storytelling.
  • Ross’s writing journey reflects a long-held dream to become an author.
  • He emphasizes the importance of creating unique protagonists in thrillers.
  • The art of storytelling involves engaging readers through vivid descriptions.
  • Ross enjoys the process of writing and values reader feedback. His experiences as a lawyer enrich his fictional narratives.

Here’s a short clip of Marc giving the elevator pitch for this great book:

Here are some ways you can watch this compelling and inspiring episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

Links for this episode:

How To Share: From International Lawyer to Thriller Writer transcript

A. Marc Ross’s website: https://www.amarcross.com/index.html

Attacking the Dragon on Barnes & Noble and Amazon

From the hosts:

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

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)

How To Share Our Luck

Posted in howtoshareTagged , , , , , , , , , 43 Comments

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” – Muhammad Ali

I’m fascinated by the origin stories of how people start big things. I love hearing how people have done fantastic things just by following a thread that often starts in such an incidental or accidental way.

My guest on this week’s How to Share podcast, Gil Gillenwater, has a great origin story. In 1987, he and his brother, Troy, went on a Thanksgiving-inspired road trip to deliver food to a town in Mexico. They took a wrong turn and ended up in Agua Prieta, a town right on the US-Mexican border and were stunned by the living conditions and abandoned children.

Gil started a non-profit called Rancho Feliz that has served the Agua Prieta and surrounding communities in these ways:

  • Awarded 3,700 scholarships
  • Issued 6,854 graduation certificates for adults
  • Built 1,220 houses
  • Distributed 64,000 bags of food
  • Donated tons of medical supplies
  • Constructed orphanages, education centers, childcare centers, and volunteer centers

And more than that, Gil and his mission have also enriched the lives of the people who have come to volunteer. Rancho Felix has coordinated 27,462 volunteer visits. Gil documents these accomplishments and shares his experiences and insights from over 35 years of philanthropic work along the US-Mexico border in his beautiful book, Hope on the Border.

Gil tells us why me-first culture isn’t working and how enlightened self-interest provides a path out of spiritual poverty. He shares why he doesn’t like the word “charity” for either giver or receiver. Instead Gil hails the 28,000 volunteers that work with Racho Feliz as guardian warriors.

We talk about education as the ultimate tool in the border crisis and how providing that can change lives. And we talk about how the ability to see ourselves in others proves to be a life changing gift.

This is an incredible conversation with an amazing guardian warrior that shows us enthusiasm and purpose that transcends borders. I know you’ll love it.

Takeaways

  • When’s the last time you heard good news about the US-Mexico border?
  • The disparity in wealth is a significant issue that needs addressing.
  • Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
  • Creating opportunities in one’s home country can reduce migration.
  • Enlightened self-interest can lead to personal and communal growth.
  • Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
  • Community service fosters connections and shared humanity.
  • Experiencing poverty firsthand can change perspectives.
  • The joy of service is a pathway to personal happiness.

Here’s a short clip of Gil describing enlightened self-interest as an antidote to our me first, greed is good culture:

Here are some ways you can watch this compelling and inspiring episode:

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

This is the last podcast of 2025! Thank you to all you amazing listeners/watchers/readers who have been so interested in and supportive of all these amazing guests sharing their interesting stories about learning, writing, and growing in this one wild and precious life! Stay tuned for more great episodes in 2026! I appreciate you!

What Do You Know To Be True? – How To Share

This episode is different – because Wynne Leonis a guest on the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast with the brilliant host and producer, Roger Kastner. What Do You Know To Be True? features conversationsat the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, belonging, and personal growth—inviting guests to explore the truths that shape how they lead and live.Roger is a master at getting his guests to reveal theirsuperpower. Watching this episode reminded me how skillful Roger is at digging into the heart of what I know to be true. In my case, my superpower is trying. In this conversation,Roger and I talk about:How Wynne's electrical engineering background helped develop her superpowerWhy trying is different than persistenceHow mountain climbing helped shape and shift Wynne's ability to tryWhat her system is for creating order when tryingHow trying helps keep us from being stuckHow documenting what we've tried helps us to pass on the learning to othersSo, please go to What Do You Know to Be True and listen tothis episode. And subscribe – because Roger has so many fantastic conversations that helps us dig into our superpowers, share them – and thrive!Links for this episode:How to Share homeWhat Do You Know To Be True? websiteWhat Do You Know to Be True? on YouTubeRoger Kastner on LinkedIn
  1. What Do You Know To Be True?
  2. How to Share a Return Home with Mario Cartaya
  3. How to Share a Mission with Anthony Dyer
  4. How to Share Your Superpower with Roger Kastner
  5. How to Share Perspective with Andrea Simon

Links for this episode:

Hope on the Border on Amazon

Gil’s organization: Rancho Feliz

Gil Gillenwater on Facebook

My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith⁠

(featured photo from Pexels)

(feature quote from Enlightened Mind 622 – The Rent You Pay)