The JOY of LIVING

Finding Purpose, Faith, Identity, and Joy Through Life’s Journey

What happens when joy meets purpose… and purpose becomes a lifelong search for meaning? In this deeply moving and energizing conversation, Barry Shore sits down with filmmaker, writer, and spiritual seeker Sal Litvak for a conversation about identity, faith, creativity, resilience, and the invisible threads that shape who we become. Sal shares the remarkable story behind his unique family history—from Chilean roots and Holocaust survival to growing up between cultures while searching for something deeper than success. Together, Barry and Sal explore what it means to live with intention, how moments of transcendence can quietly change the course of a life, and why the search for purpose often begins long before we realize it. From rowing on the Charles River at Harvard… to practicing law in New York… to walking away from certainty to pursue filmmaking at UCLA, Sal reflects on the twists, risks, and awakenings that led him toward his true calling. This episode is about more than career reinvention—it’s about listening for the spark within, trusting the journey, and recognizing that transformation often begins in silence. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Faith Under Fire: Virginia Prodan’s Escape from Communist Romania

What happens when one woman stands against a communist regime armed with nothing but faith, truth, and courage? In this unforgettable episode of The Joy of Living, Barry Shore sits down with Virginia Prodan — a human rights attorney, survivor of communist Romania, and living testament to the power of God’s protection and purpose. From enduring torture and threats under dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime to facing an assassin sent to kill her, Virginia shares a story that feels impossible… yet every word is true. This conversation goes far beyond politics or history. It’s about resilience in the face of fear, the spiritual strength to love your enemies, and the miraculous ways faith can transform even the darkest moments. Virginia reveals how President Ronald Reagan intervened to help her escape Romania, why freedom must never be taken for granted, and how standing for truth can change lives — even the life of the man sent to murder her. Barry and Virginia also explore the deeper meaning of joy, purpose, gratitude, and what it truly means to live with courage in today’s world. If you’ve ever wondered whether one person can make a difference… this episode is your answer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bert Brodsky on Gratitude, Giving & the Power of Making a Difference

What does it really mean to make a difference — not just with money, but with your life? In this powerful episode of The Joy of Living, Barry Shore sits down with entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader Bert Brodsky for a deeply human conversation about gratitude, education, family, Alzheimer’s, and the responsibility to help others. Bert shares his story of growing up in the Bronx, sleeping in the kitchen, and still remembering his childhood with joy, love, and gratitude. He reflects on how education shaped his life, how giving became part of his identity, and how his painful experience caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s inspired him to help millions of families through the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Together, Barry and Bert explore why doing the right thing gives you the strength to “take the heat,” how gratitude becomes the foundation of service, and why real success is measured by how many people you help along the way. This episode is a moving reminder that pain can become purpose, gratitude can become action, and every person has the power to go M.A.D. — Make A Difference. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Control to Leadership: The Real Secret to Building a Scalable Business

In this insightful episode of The Joy of Living Podcast, Barry Shore welcomes CFO, valuation architect, and author Matteo Turi for a deep conversation on what truly creates long-term business value in today’s rapidly changing economy. Matteo explains why modern businesses can no longer rely only on physical assets or traditional growth models. Instead, the companies that thrive are the ones that build strong intellectual property, create transferable leadership systems, and focus on delivering real value to customers. Together, Barry and Matteo explore the principles behind Matteo’s High Valuation Triangle — a framework designed to help businesses scale, attract investors, strengthen leadership, and increase enterprise value. The conversation also dives into the powerful cycle of “Fail, Pivot, Scale,” showing how setbacks and reinvention are often necessary steps toward lasting success. Through practical examples, business insights, and Barry’s uplifting perspective on purpose and mindset, this episode offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, founders, consultants, and anyone looking to build a stronger, more resilient business. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Court to Corporate: John Mengelt on Discipline, Money & Life After Sports

In this thought-provoking episode of The Joy of Living, Barry Shore sits down with former pro basketball player and accomplished businessman John Mengelt to unpack one of the most complex issues in modern sports—the rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and its impact on young athletes. What starts as a conversation about college sports quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of money, mindset, and maturity. John brings a rare perspective, having lived both sides—first as an elite athlete and later as a successful professional in business. Together, they dive into the realities behind the headlines: young athletes earning hundreds of thousands of dollars, the pressure of social media, and the harsh truth that only a small percentage will go pro. This episode goes beyond sports. It's about identity, discipline, communication, and the critical role of education in building a sustainable life. Barry and John challenge listeners to rethink success—not as fame or fast money, but as long-term purpose, responsibility, and personal growth. If you've ever wondered what really happens after the spotlight fades, this conversation delivers insight that is both eye-opening and deeply relevant. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.