Positive Vibes: On the Sunny Side with Yasmine S. Ali, MD

Ep. 26: America 250: Escorting the Declaration of Independence (Interview w/Brian Wilson)

In honor of America's 250th birthday, I'm bringing back one of the most popular episodes of the Positive Vibes podcast. Archivist, actor, and author Brian Wilson shares remarkable stories from history—including the incredible tale of helping recover and escort Georgia's official copy of the Declaration of Independence. There's another fascinating historical connection that wasn't mentioned when this interview first aired: Brian is a direct descendant of Richard Stockton, the first delegate from New Jersey to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Stockton was a prominent attorney, a member of the Second Continental Congress, and one of the nation's 56 Founding Fathers. Brian rarely talks about this family connection, but it makes this conversation especially fitting as America celebrates its semiquincentennial. Beyond history, Brian also offers practical advice as an archivist on preserving family photographs and treasured documents for future generations. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at life as a professional background actor, sharing stories from major productions including Avengers: Infinity War, Captain America: Brave New World, Jungle Cruise, MacGyver, and more—including a memorable experience working with Ryan Gosling. Whether you're interested in American history, genealogy, family preservation, filmmaking, or simply great storytelling, there's something here for you.   Subscribe to the Positive Vibes e-magazine and get a free e-book, plus notification of deals and discounts! https://www.YasmineAliMD.com [http://www.YasmineAliMD.com]   Links & Resources: Support Positive Vibes: www.buymeacoffee.com/onthesunnyside [http://www.buymeacoffee.com/onthesunnyside] Find Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wilson-352a93b/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wilson-352a93b/] National Archives preservation advice: https://www.archives.gov/preservation/holdings-maintenance/paper [https://www.archives.gov/preservation/holdings-maintenance/paper] Lineco Archival Document Storage Boxes (recommended by Brian): https://amzn.to/4navK30 [https://amzn.to/4navK30] America’s Semiquincentennial: Museum of the American Revolution FAQs: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/the-semiquincentennial-frequently-asked-questions [https://www.amrevmuseum.org/the-semiquincentennial-frequently-asked-questions] Visit Dr. Ali’s online bookstore and get an autographed copy of Walk through Fire or The View from the Cliffs! Available at https://www.LastSkyWriting.com [http://www.LastSkyWriting.com]. About Yasmine S. Ali, MD: Known as "The Positive Cardiologist," Dr. Ali is an internationally recognized preventive cardiologist and bestselling author of both nonfiction and fiction. She focuses on the science of happiness and the importance of optimism for health and longevity. She is an award-winning speaker and is the creator of the ORCHID Model for Positive Living™. Her work unites science, storytelling, and optimism. She brings three decades of medical experience to her teaching and writing, along with a lifelong devotion to creativity and the pursuit of optimum health. Yasmine S. Ali is also the bestselling author of Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America and The View from the Cliffs: A Novel. Find her books at her online bookstore, https://LastSkyWriting.com [https://LastSkyWriting.com]   The material contained in this podcast is for informational/educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

Ep. 25: Award-Winning Fantasy Author Barbara V. Evers on Creativity, Storytelling, and Giraffes

Have you ever wondered what it takes to create an entire world from your imagination? In this fun episode, Dr. Yasmine Ali explores the “C” for Creativity in her ORCHID Model for Positive Living™ with award-winning fantasy author Barbara V. Evers. Barbara is the author of multiple fantasy novels, many of which are award-winning, and all of which she describes as “matriarchal fantasies with clever animals.” Her fantasy trilogy, The Watchers of Moniah, won the Imadjinn Best Fantasy Novel twice, and her collection, Pieces of Her, includes award-winning stories, including a Pushcart Prize nominee. Together, Dr. Ali and Barbara discuss the creative process, worldbuilding, storytelling, publishing, personality types, and the winding paths our lives and careers often take. Along the way, they also dive into one of Barbara’s greatest passions: giraffes. You'll learn about giraffe conservation, fascinating giraffe physiology, and how a chance encounter with a giraffe helped spark a lifelong fascination that ultimately found its way into Barbara’s fiction. Find Barbara V. Evers online at: https://www.barbaravevers.com/ [https://www.barbaravevers.com/] And sign up for Dr. Ali’s monthly Positive Vibes e-magazine and get a free guide to Positive Living! Visit https://www.YasmineAliMD.com [http://www.YasmineAliMD.com] In this episode: * How Barbara created the fantasy world of Moniah and its telepathic giraffes * The realities of writing and publishing fantasy fiction * Why creativity often flourishes through unexpected detours * The difference between fantasy, speculative fiction, and epic fantasy * The surprising story behind Barbara's award-winning trilogy * How personality types can influence creativity and storytelling * Why giraffes are more fascinating—and more endangered—than most people realize * What giraffes can teach us about resilience, adaptation, and wonder Barbara's enthusiasm is contagious, and this conversation is a joyful reminder that creativity can enrich every stage of life. More Links & Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6xsWFXA8AzQ [https://youtu.be/6xsWFXA8AzQ] Support the Positive Vibes podcast: https://BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside [http://www.BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside] Barbara V. Evers’ website: https://www.barbaravevers.com/ [https://www.barbaravevers.com/] Books by Barbara V. Evers: The Watchers of Moniah: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859093 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859093] The Watchers in Exile: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859116 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859116] The Watchers at War: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859130 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859130] The Nature of the Beast: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859185 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859185] Pieces of Her: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859055 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9781959859055] The Giraffe Conservation Foundation: https://giraffeconservation.org/ [https://giraffeconservation.org/] Article on giraffe blood pressure/cardiovascular physiology: https://www.zmescience.com/ecology/animals-ecology/giraffe-blood-pressure/ [https://www.zmescience.com/ecology/animals-ecology/giraffe-blood-pressure/] Dr. Ali's episode on natural ways to lower blood pressure: https://www.positivevibessunnyside.com/e/blood-pressure/ [https://www.positivevibessunnyside.com/e/blood-pressure/]   Visit Dr. Ali’s online bookstore and get an autographed copy of Walk through Fire or The View from the Cliffs! Available at https://www.LastSkyWriting.com [http://www.LastSkyWriting.com].   About Yasmine S. Ali, MD: Known as "The Positive Cardiologist," Dr. Ali is an internationally recognized preventive cardiologist and bestselling author of both nonfiction and fiction. She focuses on the science of happiness and the importance of optimism for health and longevity. She is an award-winning speaker and is the creator of the ORCHID Model for Positive Living™. Her work unites science, storytelling, and optimism. She brings three decades of medical experience to her teaching and writing, along with a lifelong devotion to creativity and the pursuit of optimum health. Yasmine S. Ali is also the bestselling author of Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America and The View from the Cliffs: A Novel. Find her books at her online bookstore, https://LastSkyWriting.com [https://LastSkyWriting.com]   The material contained in this podcast is for informational/educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

Ep.24: Brain Health, Faith, & Graceful Aging (Interview w/Janice Love)

What does it mean to age gracefully—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? Dr. Yasmine Ali speaks with faith-centered brain health coach Janice R. Love in this episode of the Positive Vibes podcast about brain health, mindset, purpose, and intentional living in midlife and beyond. Also known as “Dr. Janice,” she shares her remarkable personal and professional journey--from biological psychology and healthcare leadership to writing books, coaching women through life transitions, and ultimately returning to her longtime passion for brain health. Together, Dr. Ali and Dr. Janice discuss: * Brain fog, focus, memory, and sleep in midlife * Why “vegging out” on screens is not true rest * Constructive rest and protecting attention in a distracted world * The importance of learning new skills for brain health * Faith, resilience, and the power of renewing the mind * Reinvention, creativity, and embracing multiple callings * Why your genes are not necessarily your destiny * How movement, joy, music, and even dancing can support emotional well-being Dr. Janice also shares details about her upcoming “In Her Right Mind” memory and focus bootcamp for women. Visit Janice Love’s website for the Pearls Perfected Institute: https://pearlsperfectedinstitute.com/ [https://pearlsperfectedinstitute.com/] Find her on Facebook and Instagram and on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicerlove/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicerlove/]   And sign up for Dr. Ali’s monthly Positive Vibes e-magazine and newsletter and get a free e-book on Positive Living! Visit https://www.YasmineAliMD.com [http://www.YasmineAliMD.com]   More Links & Resources: Support the Positive Vibes podcast: https://BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside [http://www.BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside] Dr. Ali and Dr. Janice on the “Asking for a Sister Friend” YouTube show (by Dr. Janice): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaXUxYYzShg [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaXUxYYzShg] Pearls Perfected Institute, founded by Dr. Janice Love: https://pearlsperfectedinstitute.com/ [https://pearlsperfectedinstitute.com/] Books by Janice R. Love: Divorced and Still Highly Favored : https://bookshop.org/a/447/9780692404157 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9780692404157] One Plus One Equals Ten: A First Lady’s Survival Guide for Stepmoms: https://bookshop.org/a/447/9780615695389 [https://bookshop.org/a/447/9780615695389] Chosen for This: How to Be Married to Ministry and Have Your Own Life Calling: https://amzn.to/49rHESf [https://amzn.to/49rHESf]   Visit Dr. Ali’s online bookstore and get an autographed copy of Walk through Fire or The View from the Cliffs! Available at https://www.LastSkyWriting.com [http://www.LastSkyWriting.com].   About Yasmine S. Ali, MD: Known as "The Positive Cardiologist," Dr. Ali is an internationally recognized preventive cardiologist and bestselling author of both nonfiction and fiction. She focuses on the science of happiness and the importance of optimism for health and longevity. She is an award-winning speaker and is the creator of the ORCHID Model for Positive Living (TM). Her work unites science, storytelling, and optimism. She brings three decades of medical experience to her teaching and writing, along with a lifelong devotion to creativity and the pursuit of optimum health. Yasmine S. Ali is also the bestselling author of Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America and The View from the Cliffs: A Novel. Find her books at her online bookstore, https://LastSkyWriting.com [https://LastSkyWriting.com]   The material contained in this podcast is for informational/educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

Ep. 23: Three Deep Breaths: Immediate Stress Relief

In need of immediate stress relief? It can begin with something as simple as your next breath. In a time when so many people are carrying more stress than usual, it can be difficult to know where to begin. The good news is that meaningful relief doesn’t always require a major change; sometimes, it starts with something as simple as your next breath. In this short solo episode, Dr. Yasmine S. Ali shares two guided deep-breathing techniques designed to bring an immediate sense of calm and centeredness. These practices are simple, accessible, and can be done anywhere, whether you’re in the middle of a busy day or just need a quiet, quick reset. As a cardiologist, Dr. Ali has seen how quickly the body responds to intentional breathing. With just three deep breaths, you may begin to feel a shift—less tension, more clarity, and a gentle return to center. Sign up for the Positive Vibes e-magazine and newsletter and get a free e-book on Positive Living! Visit https://www.YasmineAliMD.com [http://www.YasmineAliMD.com]   More Links & Resources: Support the Positive Vibes podcast: https://BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside [http://www.BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside] Visit Dr. Ali’s online bookstore and get an autographed copy of Walk through Fire or The View from the Cliffs! Available at https://www.LastSkyWriting.com [http://www.LastSkyWriting.com].   About Yasmine S. Ali, MD: Known as "The Positive Cardiologist," Dr. Ali is an internationally recognized preventive cardiologist and bestselling author of both nonfiction and fiction. She focuses on the science of happiness and the importance of optimism for health and longevity. She is an award-winning speaker and is the creator of the ORCHID Model for Positive Living (TM). Her work unites science, storytelling, and optimism. She brings nearly three decades of medical experience to her teaching and writing, along with a lifelong devotion to creativity and the pursuit of optimum health. Yasmine S. Ali is also the bestselling author of Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America and The View from the Cliffs: A Novel. Find her books at her online bookstore, https://LastSkyWriting.com [https://LastSkyWriting.com]   The material contained in this podcast is for informational/educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

Ep.22: A Life in Flight--a Dream Career, Curiosity, and a Life Well Lived (Interview w/Larry Zetterlind)

Have you ever wondered how to build a life—and career—that you absolutely love? Larry Zetterlind spent a lifetime doing what he loved. He began flying at age 12, soloed on his 16th birthday, and built a decades-long career as a pilot, from the U.S. Air Force to corporate aviation, eventually serving as a chief pilot for over 20 years. Along the way, he saw the country—and the world—from a perspective few people ever experience. In this conversation, Larry reflects on that life in full: how an early fascination became a profession, what it means to truly enjoy your work, and how curiosity—about airplanes, trains, weather, and the world itself—can shape a life. We also talk about: * What it was like to fly in the early days of modern aviation * The difference between corporate flying and commercial airlines * Memorable moments from the cockpit, including storms, long-distance flights, and unexpected discoveries * His lifelong interest in trains and model railroading, and how we connected over my book, Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America [https://lastskywriting.com/products/walk-through-fire-the-train-disaster-that-changed-america-unsigned-copy] * The role of family, friendship, and perspective in a life well lived Toward the end, Larry shares a deeply personal poem written by his daughter—one of the most meaningful reflections on a life in motion, and the idea of “home,” that you’ll hear. This episode is ultimately about something simple and rare: finding work you love, staying curious, and building a life that feels like your own. Sign up for the Positive Vibes e-magazine and newsletter and get a free e-book on Positive Living! Visit https://www.YasmineAliMD.com [http://www.YasmineAliMD.com] Links & Resources: Kinzua Bridge State Park: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kinzua-bridge-state-park [https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kinzua-bridge-state-park] Purchase Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America (unsigned copy): https://lastskywriting.com/products/walk-through-fire-the-train-disaster-that-changed-america-unsigned-copy [https://lastskywriting.com/products/walk-through-fire-the-train-disaster-that-changed-america-unsigned-copy] Autographed copy of Walk through Fire: https://lastskywriting.com/products/autographed-copy-of-walk-through-fire-the-train-disaster-that-changed-america [https://lastskywriting.com/products/autographed-copy-of-walk-through-fire-the-train-disaster-that-changed-america] Links to Episode 1 (about the Waverly Train Disaster) on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YbXASWOgSc&t=3s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YbXASWOgSc&t=3s] and audio-only: https://www.positivevibessunnyside.com/e/waverly-train-disaster/ [https://www.positivevibessunnyside.com/e/waverly-train-disaster/]   Support the Positive Vibes podcast: https://BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside [http://www.BuyMeaCoffee.com/onthesunnyside]   Visit Dr. Ali’s online bookstore and get an autographed copy of Walk through Fire or The View from the Cliffs! Available at https://www.LastSkyWriting.com [http://www.LastSkyWriting.com].   About Yasmine S. Ali, MD: Known as "The Positive Cardiologist," Dr. Ali is an internationally recognized preventive cardiologist and bestselling author of both nonfiction and fiction. She focuses on the science of happiness and the importance of optimism for health and longevity. She is an award-winning speaker and is the creator of the ORCHID Model for Positive Living (TM). Her work unites science, storytelling, and optimism. She brings nearly three decades of medical experience to her teaching and writing, along with a lifelong devotion to creativity and the pursuit of optimum health. Yasmine S. Ali is also the bestselling author of Walk through Fire: The Train Disaster that Changed America and The View from the Cliffs: A Novel. Find her books at her online bookstore, https://LastSkyWriting.com [https://LastSkyWriting.com]   The material contained in this podcast is for informational/educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.