Episodes
159
Dec. 3, 2024
Straddling the Picket Fence: Barb Higgins' Journey Through Grief and Resilience
Barb Higgins shares a deeply moving and raw story about the loss of her daughter, Molly, an experience that transformed her life in unimaginable ways.
Guest: Barb Higgins
Nov. 30, 2024
Day 30: My 30-Day Podcasting Challenge Experience – 30 days, 30 episodes
This episode marks the conclusion of my ambitious 30-day challenge of producing daily content for the Life Shift podcast. I've shared my journey of reflecting on my personal growth and the insights I've gained through candid conversations with incredible guests. As I navigated this intense schedule, I realized the importance of balancing my commitment to the podcast with my full-time job and the support I owe the audience and generous Patreon members. I explored new ideas for future episodes, i...
Nov. 30, 2024
Day 29: The Lasting Impact of Bullying – 30 days, 30 episodes
Bullying can leave lasting scars, and in today’s episode, I reflect on my own experiences with it throughout my childhood and adolescence. I share personal anecdotes, from being pushed into the mud by a bully in third grade to facing threats from a baseball team in high school. These moments shaped my reactions to conflict and how I navigated friendships, often leading me to prioritize others' approval over my own feelings. Takeaways: Bullying can leave lasting emotional scars that affect us t...
Nov. 28, 2024
Day 28: Gratitude and Growth – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible journey of the Life Shift podcast. As I reflect on recording 166 episodes since launching in March 2022, I'm deeply honored by the trust so many guests have placed in me by sharing their personal stories. This Thanksgiving, I want to highlight not only my appreciation for the guests but also for the loyal listeners who tune in regularly and help spread the word. Whether you’ve shared an episode with a friend or reached o...
Nov. 28, 2024
Day 27: Should I Save for Tomorrow or Live Today? – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I share my uncomfortable truth about money and how I manage it as I navigate life. Should I be saving for the future or enjoying the present? Growing up with a father who worked multiple jobs instilled a strong awareness of financial stability. However, as I hit my 40s, I wonder if I'm living life to the fullest while still being safe with my finances. I share my internal struggle about spending versus saving, especially considering what it means to truly enjoy my life now rather than def...
Nov. 27, 2024
Day 26: Therapy Isn't Scary: Here's My Experience – 30 days, 30 episodes
Therapy is a powerful tool that can help us navigate our emotional struggles, yet many people feel intimidated by the idea of seeking help. In today's episode, I share my personal journey with therapy, highlighting the fears and misconceptions that often hold people back from reaching out. I discuss my own experiences, including the challenges I faced in finding the right therapist and the breakthroughs that eventually led to healing. It's essential to acknowledge the feelings of apprehension th...
158
Nov. 26, 2024
Overcoming Adversity: Shani Rigsbee's Life-Changing Health Battle
Shani Rigsbee shares her powerful journey of resilience and self-discovery following a life-altering diagnosis of ovarian cancer at the age of 26.
Guest: Shani Rigsbee
Nov. 26, 2024
Day 25: The Dream Job I Never Pursued – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I share a little about my dream job(s) and reflect on how pivotal moments have shaped my career aspirations. Growing up, I was inspired by MTV and envisioned myself as a VJ like Carson Daly on Total Request Live, immersed in music, celebrities, and engaging conversations. However, my journey took a different turn after struggling with a mass communication law class, which led me to shift my major to business. I still dream of being a part of The View, where I could participate in meanin...
Nov. 25, 2024
Day 24: Finding Authenticity in a World of Expectations – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I unexpectedly share the importance of authenticity and how it shapes how we show up in the world. Reflecting on a recent conversation on another podcast, I consider the idea of being perceived as kind and how that aligns with my values. While we all have mean thoughts occasionally, striving for kindness and authenticity in our interactions is crucial. Ultimately, I hope to inspire you to embrace your authenticity and recognize the beauty of sharing your true self with the world. Takeaw...
Nov. 24, 2024
Day 23: Answering Random Questions – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I dive into a fun and spontaneous format by using random question generators to spark some interesting responses (or not). It’s a lighthearted exploration that reveals a bit about my personality, including my aversion to board games and my thoughts on potential witness protection names. I also reflect on my recent experience as a guest on another podcast, which inspired this episode's playful approach.
Nov. 23, 2024
Day 22: Wicked: Worth the Hype – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I discuss the much-anticipated movie adaptation of Wicked, which has finally arrived after years of development. As a long-time fan of the Broadway show, I am excited about the performances, particularly those of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who truly brought their characters to life.
Nov. 22, 2024
Day 21: Finding Light in Holiday Memories – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I dive into the topic of holidays and the various traditions that shape our experiences. As we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas, I reflect on how my relationship with these celebrations has evolved over the years, especially in light of personal losses and changes. I share memories of cherished moments spent with my grandmother and the unique traditions we created together, from late-night gift unwrapping to family dinners at Olive Garden. However, I also acknowledge how the absence of loved ones can alter the feeling of these festive times. Ultimately, I encourage everyone to embrace what brings them joy during the holidays, whether that's continuing old traditions or creating new ones, and to remember that it's okay to feel a mix of emotions during this season.
Nov. 21, 2024
Day 20: Crafting a Wish List of Guests – 30 days, 30 episodes
I’m dreaming big today as I share my thoughts on potential dream guests for The Life Shift podcast. With 30 days and 30 episodes in progress, I reflect on the inspiring individuals I would love to connect with and learn from about their pivotal moments in life. Among those on my wish list are Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Nettles, Sara Haines, Brian Teta, Randy Rainbow, and Tyler Whitman. Just like us all, I'm positive that each of these remarkable people has a unique story to tell.
Nov. 20, 2024
Day 19: Feeling Down: A Real Talk on Mental Health – 30 days, 30 episodes
On Day 19, I share the importance of acknowledging and sharing our feelings, especially during difficult times. I open up about my struggles with sleep and the emotional burden of recent grief, illustrating how these feelings can affect daily life. I highlight that it's okay to not feel great all the time and share the value of having a support system to share these feelings with. I believe verbalizing our struggles can help normalize them, making them feel more manageable. By being honest ab...
157
Nov. 19, 2024
Breaking Free: Meg Gluth on Overcoming Addiction After Loss
In this episode of "The Life Shift Podcast," Meg Gluth shares her journey through life's challenges marked by anxiety, addiction, and personal loss. Meg's story is one of transformation, resilience, and introspection, highlighting her shift from societal expectations to personal fulfillment. The episode offers listeners an insightful exploration of the complexities of self-discovery and the strength found in embracing one's true identity.
Guest: Meg Gluth
Nov. 19, 2024
Day 18: 35 Moves and Counting – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I reflect on my experience of moving frequently throughout my life, having relocated over 35 times. This journey of constant change has shaped my perspective on fresh starts and the thrill of new environments. I discuss how my childhood experiences, particularly my parents' divorce, contributed to this pattern of moving and how it has influenced my craving for change. As I contemplate my next move, I share my thoughts on what it means to seek out different places and experiences, espec...
Nov. 18, 2024
Day 17: My First Ambulance Ride – 30 days, 30 episodes
Day 17 offers a reflection on the personal health challenges I've encountered, highlighting the importance of staying hydrated and the unexpected situations that can arise from routine health checks. I've had a couple of visits to the emergency room and urgent care, including one memorable incident during a blood draw that resulted in me fainting and needing an ambulance. While those moments were certainly uncomfortable, I’m thankful that I’ve avoided serious injuries as an adult. Resourc...
Nov. 16, 2024
Day 16: I Wish I Could Sing – 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I want to explore something I'm not very good at but wish I could excel in: singing. As I reflect on my high school theater experiences, I recount my journey from being too scared to audition for musicals to unexpectedly landing the lead role in "Grease." Despite my lack of vocal talent, my desire to sing well has stayed with me over the years. I’m considering taking singing lessons and wondering if it’s too late for me to improve. Join me as I navigate this personal challenge and share s...
Nov. 16, 2024
Day 15: What Are You Afraid Of? - 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I want to share some of my silly fears - from a tiny snake that startled me in my backyard to my irrational fear of heights. While I know these fears may seem trivial, they hold a certain power over me that I can’t quite shake off. I also touch on the strange discomfort I feel when faced with annoying noises, a fear that’s fear-adjacent. What are some of your silly fears? Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to...
Nov. 15, 2024
Day 14: From Taylor Swift Concert to Chaos - 30 days, 30 episodes
After a super fun Taylor Swift concert in Miami, my friend Traci and I found ourselves navigating an unexpected adventure that turned into a pretty scary moment. What started as a fun night out quickly spiraled into a torrential downpour in an unfamiliar neighborhood, leaving us soaked and stranded while trying to secure an Uber ride back.
Nov. 14, 2024
Day 13: Food Struggles and Body Image Battles - 30 days, 30 episodes
Today, I want to share my personal struggle with food and body image, a journey that began when I was around 12 years old. I also want to highlight the often-overlooked issue of how men can face similar challenges with body dysmorphia and unhealthy eating habits. Through this conversation, I hope to normalize these discussions and remind listeners that they are not alone in their experiences. Here are some key takeaways: My struggles with food began at the age of 12, which significantly s...
Nov. 13, 2024
Day 12: Spread a Little Kindness - 30 days, 30 episodes
Spreading kindness and connecting with others is at the heart of today's conversation on the Life Shift Podcast. I share the importance of engaging with strangers while traveling, whether in an Uber or on a plane and how these interactions can make a significant difference in someone's day. I also touch on the idea that every person we meet has their own struggles and triumphs, and by showing genuine interest, we can create meaningful connections. Join me as I explore how a little extra kindness can go a long way in bridging divides and enhancing our shared human experience.
156
Nov. 12, 2024
The Power of Surrender: Chris Graebe's Encounter with God on a Nashville Street
Chris Graebe shares a powerful story of personal transformation that began with an honest, life-altering conversation with God on a concrete block in downtown Nashville. After growing up amidst the chaos of multiple family divorces, Chris found himself lost and searching for purpose, ultimately leading him to a pivotal moment of surrender on October 13, 2002. This experience radically changed his life, shifting him from a party lifestyle to one of faith and authenticity.
Guest: Chris Graebe
Nov. 12, 2024
Day 11: NYC Birthday Traditions - 30 days, 30 episodes
Every year since 2019, I’ve made it a point to celebrate my birthday with a trip to the city. I soak in the fun atmosphere, catch Broadway shows, and enjoy delicious junk food with the people I love. I share the joy and excitement of planning these trips, from finding affordable hotels and flights to mapping out the best shows to see. As I look forward to this year’s trip, I encourage you to create your own traditions that bring joy and connection into your life.