#1: A Mountain Rescue, Unexpected Help, and the Courage to Be Vulnerable

#7: Politics Professor: 'Science Does Not Make Us Change Our Ways of Behavior'

What stories shape the way we see the world — and what stories might help us build something better? In this episode, I talk with Ronnie, a self-described "recovering academic" from California, about science, politics, human behavior, sustainability, and the stories we tell ourselves about what is possible. Ronnie spent decades teaching and studying politics, energy, resources, and global systems, but over time, his thinking shifted from purely rational explanations toward a deeper appreciation for worldviews, imagination, power, emotion, and local action. This conversation does touch on politics, and Ronnie shares his viewpoint -- so skip if you so choose! But at its heart, this episode is about something much more personal and universal: how we make sense of the world, how we decide what to believe, and how we might begin moving toward a better future one small step at a time. Ronnie reminds us that facts and science can help us understand what is happening, but they do not automatically change how we live. For that, we need stories — stories strong enough to help us imagine a different future, and practical enough to help humanity take the next step forward. In this episode, we explore: * Ronnie's journey from physics and nuclear research to politics, sustainability, and local action * Why facts, logic, and data do not always explain human behavior * The power of stories, worldviews, and imagination in shaping public life * Why local projects can become meaningful models for broader change * How healthy skepticism can help us listen more carefully in an age of media, AI, and uncertainty * The challenge — and importance — of continuing to talk across differences Reflection question: What is one story you have been telling yourself about your life, your community, or the world — and what better future might you begin imagining instead with a more compelling story? More about Ronnie: Learn more about Ronnie's work on his UC Santa Cruz bio page: https://campusdirectory.ucsc.edu/cd_detail?uid=rlipsch Call to action: If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email me at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com [nate@silvermaplestrategies.com]. I respond to every message personally!

#6: 'You Are Not Stuck Until You Stop'

What do a grandmother's red dress, a muddy river lot, and an old International Travelall have to teach us about confidence, hard work, connection, and legacy? In this episode, I talk with Amy from Iowa about the life lessons she learned from her grandparents — lessons that have shaped the way she leads, works, serves, and shows up for the people around her. Amy shares the story of her grandmother walking into a room in a red dress and teaching her that if you choose to be somewhere, you should know why you're there. She also tells the story of her grandfather teaching her how to "drive in the snow" on a muddy lot after a flood — and reminding her that you are not stuck until you stop. Along the way, Amy reflects on growing up as an introvert, learning to lead in agriculture, building trust in a family business, becoming a grandmother herself, and understanding that real connection is not just about whose name is in your book — it is about whose book you are in. In this episode, we explore: * The confidence and dignity Amy learned from her grandmother * Why it matters to know your purpose when you walk into a room * The power of keeping forward momentum when life swerves * What grandparents can offer through presence, support, and affirmation * How hard work, trust, and connection shape leadership * Why meaningful relationships are built through mutual care, not just networking Sincere thanks to Lee Williams for his fantastic production of this and every episode of Perennial Pen. Reflection question: Where in your life do you need to keep moving — even if the road is muddy or uncertain? More about Amy: Amy's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-asmus-78a1a241/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-asmus-78a1a241/] Asmus Farm Supply: https://www.afschem.com/ [https://www.afschem.com/] Call to action: If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email me at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com [nate@silvermaplestrategies.com]. I respond to every message personally!

#5: Discover Your Narrative Worth: 'What Someone Will Say About You When You're Not in the Room'

In this episode, I talk with Toby from California about friendship, identity, aging, and the conversations that help us become more fully known. Toby introduces us to the Australian idea of mateship: the kind of trusted connection where someone has your back, listens without judgment, and offers honest perspective when you need it most. From there, we explore what Toby calls narrative worth—the fuller story of who we are beyond job titles, résumés, and the narrow ways we often introduce ourselves. These themes eventually led us into a poignant and practical conversation about aging, caregiving, planning ahead, and the hard-but-loving conversations families need to have before crisis arrives. Toby speaks honestly about turning 65, caring for a neurodivergent adult son, and thinking through how to prepare well for the people he loves. In this episode, we explore: * What "mateship" means and why trusted circles matter * How friendship can offer honest feedback without the usual family or workplace filters * Why your story is bigger than your title, résumé, or LinkedIn profile * Toby's idea of "narrative worth" and how you can use it to shape how you show up * How hidden parts of our lives can reveal meaningful strengths * The importance of planning ahead for aging, care, and family responsibility Reflection question: What part of your story have you kept hidden or minimized that might actually help others understand who you really are? Links and resources mentioned: * Connect with Toby on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobintrevarthen/]. * Learn more about Toby's work with narrative strategy at Spatial Shift [https://www.spatialshift.com/]. * Explore The DO Lectures [https://thedolectures.com/courses/], where Toby's international circle of friends first began connecting through writing and community. * Learn about The DO Lectures Micro Blog System [https://thedolectures.com/online-courses/micro-blog-system-online/], the writing course Toby mentions as part of how the group first formed. * Learn more about DO Loss [https://thedolectures.com/products/do-loss-a-new-way-to-move-through-change/], the book Toby references in connection with grief, loss, and moving through change. If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email me at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com. Until next time, listen for what matters most.

#4: 'Life Is For You To Be Happy, And For The People Around You To Be Happy'

In this episode, I visit with Nerma from Puerto Rico about entrepreneurship, motherhood, resilience, and the courage it takes to build a life that reflects what matters most to each of us. Nerma shares how becoming a mother led her to pursue entrepreneurship--not as a glamorous escape, but as a practical way to create flexibility, stability, and dignity for her family. Along the way, she learned hard lessons about leadership, mistakes, team building, and the responsibility of helping others pursue their dreams. What strikes me most about this conversation is Nerma's deep conviction that we already carry many of the tools we need. Her mother taught her resilience through hardship. A college professor reminded her to look inside of herself for everything she needed to be successful. And now, through her work with entrepreneurs, Nerma helps others see a path forward for themselves, their families, and their communities. We also talk about life in Puerto Rico (and what outsiders often misunderstanda about it), the richness of family culture, and how to reframe your definition of success by focusing on the quality of your life and the happiness you are building, rather than on someone else's standards. In this episode, we explore: * How motherhood shaped Nerma's path into entrepreneurship * Why mistakes are part of growth, not proof of failure * The responsibility of leading a team with humility and care * What Puerto Rico can teach us about family, place, and belonging * How parents can know if their efforts in raising their children are paying off * Why true success begins with knowing what makes you and your loved ones happy Reflection question: What definition of success are you living by right now—and is it truly your own? Learn more about Nerma: Connect with Nerma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nermaalbertorio/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nermaalbertorio/] Visit Nerma's website: https://nermaalbertorio.com/ [https://nermaalbertorio.com/] Call to action:If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email Nate at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com [nate@silvermaplestrategies.com].

#3: 'Be Grateful For Every Day That You Have, Because You Never Know When It Might Be Your Last': Vietnam War Veteran Turned Boomer Comedian

In this episode, I talk with Jay, a Washington state-based Vietnam War veteran, longtime benefit auctioneer, entrepreneur, and comedian whose life has been shaped by gratitude, endurance, and the healing power of laughter. Jay shares the sobering lesson he learned as a young helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War: Every day is a gift, and none of us knows how much time we have. That experience has stayed with him ever since, and it eventually shaped the way he approached work, family, risk, service, and humor. We also talk about the unexpected school fundraising meeting that changed the direction of his career. What began as a simple effort to help his son's choir travel overseas became the start of a decades-long calling: helping nonprofits raise money with purpose, structure, and joy. What struck me most is how Jay connects courage and laughter. Whether he's talking about war, entrepreneurship, fundraising, or performing comedy for older adults, Jay always to a series of simple truths: Life is short, fear is real, and some of the best things in life are around the corner if we're only willing to let go. In this episode, we explore: * The life-changing lesson Jay learned as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam * Why gratitude can become a way of living, not just a feeling * How one school fundraiser became a turning point in Jay's career * What it means to "let go of the side of the pool" when fear is holding us back * Why humor helps people focus, connect, and feel alive * The importance of telling people what they mean to us while we still can Sincere thanks to Lee Williams for producing this and every episode of Perennial Pen (What Matters Most). Find Jay online: Boomer Comedian on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boomercomedian [https://www.youtube.com/@boomercomedian] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-fiske-0966a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-fiske-0966a/] MaestroSoft bio: https://www.maestrosoft.com/jay-fiske [https://www.maestrosoft.com/jay-fiske] Reflection question: Who is one person in your life you'd want to thank, encourage, or honor if you knew tomorrow wasn't guaranteed? (Bonus: Get going and say that thing to them - right now!) Call to action: If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email me at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com [nate@silvermaplestrategies.com]. I reply to every message personally, and I'm always looking for amazing guests and stories to feature. Until next time, listen for what matters most.