Chapter X with Michael Kay

Willie Handler was born to Holocaust survivors. Though his home was loving, the trauma his parents endured left deep scars that shaped his life in ways he only came to understand much later.   During the pandemic, Willie began exploring his family’s history and the intergenerational trauma he carried. What started as a way to honor his parents became a transformative journey. It unearthed buried memories, led to tough therapy sessions, and inspired his powerful new book, Out From the Shadows.   Along the way, Willie interviewed nearly 100 others with similar stories. He brings their voices together in a book that sheds light on the resilience of generations shaped by unimaginable pain. My conversation with Willie left me in awe of his courage. His story is one of reinvention and hope—and I can’t wait for you to hear it.   We discussed: Why growing up with distant parents left Willie in survival mode How a HR consultant convinced Willie to retire When he realized it was time to unearth his survivor experience The challenges Willie faced in getting the memoir published His advice for aspiring authors in their Chapter X Resources: williehandler.com [https://www.williehandler.com]  Willie on Substack [https://williehandler.substack.com/] Willie on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/williehandler/]      Out From the Shadows [https://www.amazon.com/Out-Shadows-Holocaust-Survivor-Heritage-ebook/dp/B0DH3TXYFM] Deep Into the Weeds [https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Into-Weeds-Willie-Handler/dp/1684339464] The Road Ahead [https://www.amazon.com/Road-Ahead-Willie-Handler/dp/099529450X] Loved Mars, Hated the Food [https://www.amazon.com/Loved-Mars-Hated-Willie-Handler/dp/0995294534]

For Larry O’Nan, leaving work behind wasn’t about slowing down. It was a chance to step into a new chapter of intentional living and service.    With decades of experience guiding faith-based organizations, Larry raised millions for global initiatives and inspired others to lead with purpose. But his journey didn’t stop there.   Redefining what it means to live fully, Larry has embraced failure as a tool for growth, mastered the art of saying no to what doesn’t align with his strengths, and found meaning in every phase of life, even after retirement.   His story is a testament to the possibilities that unfold when we approach each day with intention and courage.   Resources Follow Larry on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/larry.onan/]  Connect with Larry on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-o-nan-90760410/]  Intentional Living and Giving [https://larryonan.com/] Email Larry at larry@larryonan.com [larry@larryonan.com]

At 70, Edward Doherty ran a virtual Boston Marathon. At 72, he published his first book. If anyone knows the secret to defying odds, it’s him. Ed is a man who radiates optimism—his story not only touched my heart but also reignited my spirit, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.   In this episode, Ed takes us through his journey from the restaurant industry to consulting, after a pandemic-induced furlough. He shares the hurdles he faced and how he turned persistence into his greatest strength.   Ed heads up Ambrose Landen Consulting, helping organizations with strategic planning, leadership development, and employee engagement. At 72, he published his first book, Observations at the Speed of Life.   Get ready for an inspiring conversation on resilience, personal growth, and the legacy we all have the power to create.   We discussed:   * How Ed pivoted after being furloughed during the pandemic * Why failure is only valuable if you learn something from it * How Ed’s wife inspired him to become a runner in his 60s * Running the Boston Marathon virtually around Fenway Park at age 70 * How publishing a book made Ed reflect on his legacy * The power of optimism in recognizing potential in others Resources: Ambrose Landen Consultant [https://ambroselanden.com/] Observations at the Speed of Life [https://observationsatthespeedoflife.com/book/]

We’ve all heard the ‘find your why’ advice, but what if it’s not about that at all? Today, my guest is Blair Dunkley, and I’ll keep it simple: this conversation is going to be mind-filling, mind-expanding, and honestly, mind-blowing.    Blair’s here to break down how we can improve our lives by shifting our behaviors with research-backed methods that are both impactful and surprisingly simple. So, get ready to pay attention and maybe even take some notes.   In this episode, he breaks down the difference between mindset and life skills—and why mindset alone just doesn’t cut it. His mind models offer a fresh way of thinking that can help you through life’s transitions, big or small.   We discussed:   The difference between mindset vs. life skills Why studies question the effectiveness of mindset Blair’s challenge to the “find your why” framework Why we often blur the line between remembering and reliving Using mind models to manage stress and solve problems Resources The Three E’s  [https://go.mindmodelmentor.com/3e-gift] Phobia Freedom Formula [https://phobiafreedomformula.com/] The Blair Dunkley Experience [https://go.rewiringthemind.com/weekly-webinar] Ultimate Mind Hacking Book (16 Growth Mind Models) [https://book.ultimatemindhacking.com/waitinglist]

As a writer, I’ve often heard my peers talk about the “evils” of AI over the past couple of years. But truthfully, I don’t know much about it myself, which is why I’m so excited to talk to today’s guest, Justin Simpson.   Justin brings a lifetime of business experience, and now, in his “Chapter X,” he’s exploring the world of AI with new imagination and curiosity. You might be wondering, “What does AI have to do with my stage in life?”   Justin’s goal is to show how AI can be useful for everyone, especially those facing career changes or life transitions. He believes AI isn’t something to shy away from, but something to enjoy and use.   In fact, Justin believes AI offers incredible benefits for everyone, particularly for non-tech folks. Let’s dive in and explore how AI can bring new possibilities into our daily lives.   We discussed:   Why Justin believes AI benefits everyone (not just tech companies) How to start using AI tools like ChatGPT 3 incredible ways that AI serves small business owners Using AI as a brainstorming buddy for career transitions The potential for AI to address loneliness   Resources Here.Now.AI. [https://www.herenowai.com]