Your Story Matters

#97 What Civil War Desertion Taught Me About Fighting for the Right Cause with Gary Parker

Gary Parker is a prolific author with twenty traditionally published novels and six screenplays, known for his eclectic storytelling and deep historical research. His stories span genres but are united by his passion for truth and character-driven narratives. Join us for a conversation packed with craft tips, surprising historical insights, and a masterclass in epic storytelling that will leave you dreaming of your own novel. Don’t miss this inspiring deep dive into how one story, told well, can evolve, challenge, and ultimately change us. Pre-Order Gary’s New Book (coming out on June 23rd): The Judgement Tree  [https://garyeparker.net/] Gary’s Favorite Book: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles [https://www.amazon.com/dp/0143110438/?bestFormat=true&k=a%20gentleman%20in%20moscow%20book&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-bk-ser_k1_1_10_de&crid=1CKWD4EY1AU6Z&sprefix=a%20gentlema] Connect with Gary: Website⁠ [https://www.garyeparker.com/] | ⁠Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/gary.parker.9400]  Connect with Michaela: Website [https://michaelaelizabeth.com] | Instagram [https://instagram.com/michaelaelizabethcoach] | Newsletter [https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1080068/130945676313888056/share]

#96 Reclaiming Your Creative Identity with Michael Mirza

In this episode, Michael Mirza shares his journey of rediscovering his artistic identity. He reflects on how his early passion for art was set aside for practical career choices in marketing and ministry. Now, as he approaches a new chapter in life, Michael is embracing creativity through pattern design and his podcast "Define Play." He discusses the importance of balancing personal passions with professional responsibilities and the joy of exploring new experiences. Michael's story is one of self-discovery, creativity, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life.  Michael’s Favorite Book: Rick Rubin - “The Creative Act: A Way of Being”  Connect with Michael: Website [michaelmirza.com] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/michael_mirza/] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@WatchDefinePlay] | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mirza/] Connect with Michaela: Website [https://michaelaelizabeth.com] | Instagram [https://instagram.com/michaelaelizabethcoach] | Newsletter [https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1080068/130945676313888056/share]

#95 Hip Hop + Hope: One Woman’s Journey in the Slums of Cambodia with Romi Grossberg

Most people spend decades searching for their purpose — Romi Grossberg's journey from rebellious teen to global mental health advocate proves it’s never too late to find your true calling. In this powerful episode, Romi shares how her life's twists and turns led her from a sports teacher in Australia to managing youth centers in Cambodia, and eventually to authoring life-changing books on emotional intelligence and healing trauma. Her story highlights the importance of listening to your inner voice and embracing authenticity, no matter how unpredictable the path.  Romi's Memoir: Hip Hop + Hope [https://www.romigrossberg.com/books-memoirs/hip-hop-hope/] Romi’s Favorite Book: Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff [https://www.amazon.com/Ernest-Shepard-illustrator-Milne-Benjamin/dp/1405293780/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1PV9X5MTVFTIV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oVQB-rgTBb6Oqch6EpFKAVYKCvvWndMkpgLGTR8T3TeFfxy3cWsra7F-Kpgx6YTPRb0XA7-g4Z8-h2GbyXJ67INIH1hm8OclPNpFCs6ztBauwJFDpoWcBARg4PqwUArdclcVKaTFxUuNrxfUe182s28iQ4SSemhv5NF2vr5VIM2jey_oTRAtG_SLrO5PEFtbTrd2cZ7ttUBM8ajnDkDGBsrP9VSEjEeHksH9-yqFLpc.0jccUccVLeOeBzBTJO0y4rHd94hhda5e4BbLoKfr1Cs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Tao+of+Pooh+by+Benjamin+Hoff&qid=1775488284&sprefix=tao+of+pooh+by+benjamin+hoff%2Caps%2C208&sr=8-2] Connect with Romi: Website [http://www.romigrossberg.com] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/romi.grossberg.writer] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/romilovelife_counsellor/] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@RomiGrossberg] Connect with Michaela: Website [https://michaelaelizabeth.com] | Instagram [https://instagram.com/michaelaelizabethcoach] | Newsletter [https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1080068/130945676313888056/share]

#94 The Hidden Link Between Self-Compassion + Healing from Childhood Chaos with Alison Zeidler

Alison Zeidler shares her inspiring story of overcoming childhood chaos, learning to communicate, and embracing holistic healing to transform her life. Discover practical insights on incremental change, self-awareness, and helping others. Alison’s Challenge for Celebrating What We’ve Done: * Look at yourself in the mirror * Pat yourself on the back and say, “good job. I’m here. I’ve been through stuff.”  * Pick one thing to give yourself credit for (ex. I got out of bed today) * Say it every day for two weeks Alison’s Favorite Book: Anything by Stephen King Connect with Alison: Website [https://www.alisonzeidler.com/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/freedom.from.burnout/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ElementalHolisticTherapies]| YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@alisonzeidler5232] Connect with Michaela: Website [https://michaelaelizabeth.com] | Instagram [https://instagram.com/michaelaelizabethcoach] | Newsletter [https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1080068/130945676313888056/share]

#93 Life Beyond the Binge: A Commercial Fisherwoman’s Journey Home with Colleen Clifford

***Trigger Warning - Alcohol Related Suicide*** In this episode, Colleen Clifford shares her transformative journey from a life marked by binge drinking and personal tragedy to one of healing and empowerment. After the alcohol-related suicide of her late husband, Colleen vowed to change her life and help others by sharing her story. She discusses the impact of grief, the dangers of binge drinking, and the importance of mental health awareness. Colleen emphasizes the power of positive thinking and self-reflection, which led her to become an author and coach. Her upcoming book, "Life Beyond the Binge," aims to inspire others by offering hope and insights into overcoming personal struggles.  Colleen’s Favorite Book: Man's Search for Meaning - Victor Frankl [https://www.amazon.com/Mans-Search-Meaning-Viktor-Frankl/dp/0807014273/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13NWLJA4TKJ80&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.phUc2adLzv8edJKcJfYGiYmYQA_wfSFAPr6oNqdjFnYV7gMXyl5r_BVuvV7ImuoHeQmjpAz-UGDAPf0AeA5kzvvAClGjnsqVI40DU3eDc9FJ--dHn1OmatgvGUEp_-YA5mXn-mfY68VSUFlW9Q0baHR7noQ-q9fKb8Iea6xZKU622CkdkF3EH6JQ6vdtZOT1vTTvhRAzcRSYQ09jEXo3Z21Ishas4vp6okgeL3I2N-w.k86yLmqIx-rX-0v2qqPXXVkdJoXav1WCcc-Zul0Epkw&dib_tag=se&keywords=Man%27s+Search+for+Meaning+-+Victor+Frankl&qid=1774549472&sprefix=man%27s+search+for+meaning+-+victor+frankl%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1] Connect with Colleen: Website [https://lifebeyondthebinge.com/] Connect with Michaela: Website [https://michaelaelizabeth.com] | Instagram [https://instagram.com/michaelaelizabethcoach] | Newsletter [https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1080068/130945676313888056/share]