Ep: 1856 Liz Lazarus - Dawn Before Darkness

Ep: 1861 Jean Trounstine - Sounds Like Trouble To Me

Inspired by the true story of women at Dublin Correctional Facility in California, Jean Trounstine's novel follows Nettie, a correctional officer who suddenly finds herself on the other side of the prison system she once enforced. As she awaits trial, Nettie confronts the inhumane conditions of incarceration while grappling with her abusive marriage, her career, and the life she believed she understood. A renowned leader in prison reform, Jean co-founded the women's branch of the innovative alternate sentencing program, Changing Lives Through Literature (CLTL). She is a tireless advocate for incarcerated women, known internationally for her vivid, empathetic writing that illuminates the struggles of those wronged by the criminal justice system. She also contributes journalism on prison and parole to outlets including the Boston Institute of Nonprofit Journalism, Truthout, and Boston Magazine.

Ep: 1860 Lee Klinger Lesser - Return To Our Senses

In a world shaped by war, economic uncertainty, climate change, and social upheaval, maintaining balance and clarity can feel increasingly difficult. Lee Klinger Lesser argues that mindful practices are more essential than ever, helping us cultivate resilience, purpose, and joy. Through reconnecting with our breath, senses, and bodies, we can respond to life's challenges with greater calm, creativity, and intention. Lesser offers practical, step-by-step exercises that readers can use anytime to foster peace, awareness, and presence. She also shares inspiring stories from her work, including a wrongly convicted man on death row who became a justice advocate and mentor, and a military veteran who overcame addiction and trauma to become a lawyer. She holds a master's degree in education from Bank Street College and co-founded Veteran's PATH, a nonprofit serving veterans through mindfulness, community, and nature-based programs.

Ep: 1859 Dr. Kenneth Barish - The Art and Science of Parenting

Drawing on neuroscience, child development research, clinical practice, and his own experience as a father and grandfather, Dr.Kenneth Barish addresses the questions that keep parents and grandparents up at night: How do we protect our children's emotional health in an era of rising anxiety, depression, and loneliness? How do we support a genuine love of learning rather than a fear of failure? Dr. Barish offers comprehensive, multi-step guidance on all of it—written with the clarity and warmth of someone who has sat with thousands of families and knows exactly where the hard parts are.He is Clinical Professor of Psychology at Weill Cornell Medicine and Visiting Professor at Tongji Medical College in Wuhan, China. He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association. .

Ep: 1858 David Kibbe - The Power of Style

Internationally celebrated style and beauty expert David Kibbe has spent more than 40 years championing his philosophy of "Love-Based Beauty," a transformative approach that encourages women to value themselves beyond unrealistic beauty standards. Throughout his career, he has challenged traditional ideals that rely on external validation, believing they damage confidence and self-worth. His empowering message emphasizes that personal style is a powerful expression of individuality and a meaningful way to connect with others. Selected for RuPaul's Love Yourself Book Club, his work inspires readers to embrace authenticity and self-acceptance. Kibbe's influence has reached audiences worldwide through appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Today, CBS This Morning, CNN, PBS, and major publications including the Wall Street Journal, London Times, and USA Today.

Ep: 1857 Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble - Rise and Thrive

Step into your strength, embrace your brilliance, and rise—no matter the challenges life presents. This is Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble's heartfelt message to every young person seeking healing, hope, and belonging. Drawing on 30 years of research, clinical experience, and community work, she leads a journey of self-discovery and growth, blending practical guidance with culturally grounded science rich in heart, history, and humanity. This is a living toolkit for thriving. Dr. Breland- Noble, a psychologist, scientist and mental health thought leader is founder of The AAKOMA Project and one of Melinda French Gates's Leaders, championing innovative solutions to advance the health and wellbeing of women and girls worldwide. She's a regular media contributor to The Grio, Today Show, The Breakfast Club, the NY Times and others.