In this festive Thanksgiving special, Jaime Marco and her father, Stan Brown, share a light-hearted and reflective conversation about gratitude, family, and life lessons. With plenty of humor and personal anecdotes, they explore what Thanksgiving means to them and how to embrace gratitude in daily life. From fun holiday traditions to powerful insights on living with intention, this episode is perfect for those looking to reflect on what they’re thankful for as we approach the end of the year.

What you'll hear...

1. Thanksgiving Traditions:
   • The episode kicks off with a humorous exchange about the holiday preparations, from wearing turkey headbands to talking about memorable family gatherings.
   • The importance of enjoying the simple moments of Thanksgiving and what makes the holiday truly special.
2. The Power of Gratitude:
   • Jaime and Stan share their reflections on what they are thankful for this year, focusing on family, health, friendships, and career.
   • They encourage listeners to write down five things they are grateful for and compare them with loved ones to deepen connections.
3. Life Perspectives and Aging:
   • Stan reflects on his perspective as a 76-year-old and the lessons learned over the years about enjoying life and appreciating the present moment.
   • They discuss how living in the moment and appreciating small joys can lead to a fulfilling life.
4. Giovanni Livera’s Powerful Message:
   • Jamie shares an impactful experience from a National Speakers Association event with Giovanni Livera, who used a deck of cards to illustrate the limited time we have in life.
   • The idea of “living with intention” is reinforced as they talk about how the average person only has a limited number of years to live, urging listeners to reflect on how they spend their time.
5. The Importance of Connection:
   • Jamie discusses the need for meaningful relationships and how technology, despite its convenience, can make people feel disconnected.
   • The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal connections, not just during family gatherings but throughout everyday life.
6. Empathy vs. Sympathy:
   • Stan talks about the difference between empathy and sympathy and how understanding others’ experiences is key to building stronger relationships.
   • The family discusses their own experiences with feeling empathy in their lives and how it shapes their interactions with others.
7. Reflections on Career and Purpose:
   • Jamie shares how she found purpose in her career and how the value of helping others and making a difference has been central to her journey.
   • Stan reflects on his long career in real estate and how his relationships with clients and colleagues shaped his work.

Insights:

• “It’s not what we do, it’s how we show up in the world that matters.” – Jamie Marco
• “Gratitude isn’t just about what you have, but about recognizing what you can give.” – Stan Brown
• “Time is the most precious thing we have, and once it’s gone, we can’t get it back.” – Giovanni Livera (shared by Jamie)

Resources:

• IKEA Spain Christmas Dinner Video: Watch on YouTube

Join in this Thanksgiving week by reflecting on the things you’re grateful for and sharing them with family and friends. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more episodes filled with inspiration and connection. Share this episode with those who could benefit from a little gratitude and humor in their lives.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning in to this special Thanksgiving episode. Remember, life’s about connections—don’t wait for the “big moments” to show gratitude and love to those around you. Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving!

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sensei Russell Burke, a 5th-degree black belt, martial arts instructor, and Marine veteran. Russell shares his journey from being a bullied child to becoming a respected martial artist. He talks about the life-changing influence of his martial arts instructor and how his training shaped his confidence, character, and career. From childhood dreams of martial arts to opening his own dojo, Russell emphasizes the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the life lessons learned through martial arts. This episode is filled with laughter, wisdom, and practical insights on self-defense, personal growth, and mentorship.

What you'll hear...

1. Early Interest in Martial Arts:
   • Russell shares how watching a Chuck Norris movie as a young boy sparked his interest in martial arts.
   • His experience of being bullied and how martial arts became a path to self-confidence.
2. Finding a Mentor:
   • Russell’s journey of training under the same martial arts instructor for years and the life lessons he learned from him.
   • The importance of having a positive role model, especially for those growing up without a father figure.
3. Martial Arts and Life Skills:
   • The focus on self-discipline, controlled breathing, and mental toughness in martial arts training.
   • How martial arts teaches children to manage emotions, build confidence, and handle life’s challenges with calmness and resilience.
4. Building His Own Dojo:
   • Russell’s decision to open his own martial arts school and dedicate his life to teaching others.
   • The rewards of seeing students grow in confidence, both physically and mentally, through their training.
5. Lessons from the Marine Corps:
   • Russell reflects on how his time in the Marine Corps shaped his work ethic, discipline, and mental toughness.
   • His love for the demanding nature of boot camp and how it reinforced the lessons of martial arts.
6. Teaching Philosophy and Personal Growth:
   • Russell’s philosophy on martial arts being more than just fighting—it’s about developing character and integrity.
   • The difference between tournament fighting and real-world self-defense, and the importance of controlled contact in training.
7. Advice to His Younger Self:
   • Russell shares the advice he would give to his younger self, emphasizing the importance of trusting yourself, surrounding yourself with positive people, and pursuing your passions.

Insights:

• “I was small for my age, bullied a lot, but martial arts gave me the confidence to stand tall.” – Russell Burke
• “Martial arts is about much more than fighting. It’s about building character, controlling your emotions, and being confident in who you are.” – Russell Burke
• “If you surround yourself with good people and stay true to your values, you’ll thrive.” – Russell Burke

Resources:

• Russell Burke's Dojo
• Connect with Sensei Russell Burke on Facebook

If Russell's journey resonated with you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with anyone interested in martial arts, personal growth, or the importance of discipline and perseverance. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in future episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for tuning into this engaging conversation with Sensei Russell Burke. Remember, life is about resilience, confidence, and character. Whether through martial arts or daily life, keep growing and writing your extraordinary story!

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lindsay Milner, who shares her powerful story of living with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis from a young age, dealing with relentless bullying, and how these experiences shaped her into the empathetic and resilient person she is today. Lindsay’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of family support, and the power of perseverance. She also opens up about raising her children, one of whom has special needs, and how she navigates parenting with empathy and strength.

What you'll hear...

1. Lindsay's Early Diagnosis:
   • Lindsay was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of three after her mother’s persistence led to a proper diagnosis.
   • She recounts the trauma of constant pain, swelling, and the emotional toll of frequent hospital visits.
2. Coping with Bullying:
   • Lindsay talks about the severe bullying she faced due to her physical condition, including being called cruel nicknames.
   • The impact of bullying on her self-esteem and how she learned to persevere despite the challenges.
3. Family Support and Resilience:
   • Lindsay shares how her strong Christian family, especially her parents, played a crucial role in her ability to cope with her condition and the bullying.
   • The importance of not allowing her diagnosis to define her, as her parents encouraged her to participate in activities like dance and sports.
4. The Transition to Healing:
   • At the age of 11, Lindsay experienced what she and her family believe was a miraculous healing, as her symptoms significantly improved.
   • Despite the physical improvements, Lindsay discusses the long-lasting emotional effects of her childhood experiences.
5. Raising Children with Empathy:
   • As a mother, Lindsay reflects on how her past influences the way she raises her children, especially her son who has medical needs.
   • The challenges of teaching her children about resilience, empathy, and the importance of being kind to others, despite their differences.
6. Navigating Modern Challenges:
   • Lindsay explores the impact of social media on bullying and how it has changed the landscape for children today.
   • She shares her concerns and strategies for helping her children navigate a world where bullying can follow them 24/7 through digital platforms.
7. The Power of Forgiveness and Boundaries:
   • The importance of forgiveness in Lindsay’s life and how she balances it with setting healthy boundaries.
   • How Lindsay continues to work on not overcompensating for her past insecurities and teaching her children the same.
8. Looking Ahead:
   • Lindsay discusses the ongoing journey of healing and growth, and her aspirations for her children to live in a world with more acceptance and understanding.
   • The potential of starting a support group for parents of special needs children, recognizing the isolation that often comes with the role.

Insights:

• “I wish that I would not have allowed anyone to make me feel a certain way.” – Lindsay Milner
• “It’s okay to be upset. It’s okay to cry. But it’s also important to forgive and set boundaries.” – Lindsay Milner
• “We need to be accepting of everyone, because everyone has something to offer this world.” – Lindsay Milner

Resources:

• Connect with Lindsay Milner
• Visit Lindsay's Website
  

If Lindsay’s story resonated with you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone who may benefit from hearing about Lindsay’s journey of resilience. Stay tuned for more stories that inspire and empower in our upcoming episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this heartfelt conversation with Lindsay Milner. Remember, resilience is a lifelong journey, and it’s okay to cry, forgive, and set boundaries along the way. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this insightful episode, we welcome Shana, a certified hypnotist and subconscious mind expert, who specializes in helping people overcome anxiety and build confidence. Shana shares her personal journey of dealing with IBS, anxiety, and panic attacks, which ultimately led her to discover hypnotherapy. Now, she uses her expertise to help others achieve emotional balance and take control of their lives. Shana discusses the power of the subconscious mind, techniques for managing anxiety, and the importance of mental wellness. This episode is filled with practical tools for reducing stress, overcoming fear, and finding personal empowerment.

What you’ll hear…

Shana's Background and Journey:

• Shana shares how she transitioned from a high-pressure corporate job in recruitment to a career in hypnotherapy.
• Her personal struggle with IBS and anxiety led her to discover hypnotherapy, which resolved her panic attacks and helped her regain control of her life.

The Power of Hypnotherapy:

• Shana explains the science behind hypnotherapy and how it taps into the subconscious mind to address deep-rooted issues.
• The process of helping clients overcome anxiety, smoking, and other challenges by identifying the subconscious triggers behind their behaviors.

Managing Anxiety in a Busy World:

• Shana talks about the rise in anxiety, especially post-COVID, and how many people have become more aware of their mental health challenges.
• Techniques for managing anxiety in daily life, including breathing exercises, mental focus strategies, and self-hypnosis.

Shift Out and Shut Up Technique:

• Shana walks the hosts through a simple yet effective technique called "Shift Out and Shut Up," which helps calm the mind and bring focus.
• This technique can be used by anyone to reduce overwhelm and quiet the mental chatter.

Overcoming Bad Habits and Addictions:

• Shana’s approach to helping clients quit smoking or overcome addictions involves addressing the emotional triggers and building healthier coping mechanisms.
• The success of her smoking cessation program, which often takes just a few sessions.

Balancing Life as a Parent and Entrepreneur:

• Shana shares her experience of balancing her business with motherhood, raising children, and managing her own mental health.
• She discusses the importance of practicing what she preaches by using hypnotherapy techniques to maintain balance in her own life.

Looking Ahead:

• Shana shares her plans to expand her practice by offering group sessions to make hypnotherapy more accessible and cost-effective.
• She is also developing a framework to train other hypnotherapists in her methods, allowing them to create transformational change for their clients.

Insights:

• “It’s not about shutting your mind off completely. It’s about learning to manage the noise.” – Shana
• “People think hypnotherapy is magic, but it’s really about empowering people to make better choices.” – Shana
• “The more you try to force your thoughts to quiet down, the louder they become. You need to let them flow and focus.” – Shana

Resources:

• Connect with Shana
• Connect with Shana on Facebook
• Follow Shana on YouTube
• Connect with Shana on LinkedIn

If Shana’s story and techniques resonated with you, consider subscribing to our podcast for more insightful conversations. Share this episode with anyone who might be struggling with anxiety or looking for ways to build unshakable confidence. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes!

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining us for this conversation with Shana. Remember, managing anxiety is a journey, and small, consistent actions can lead to big changes. Keep practicing the techniques, and until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle and Matt, the dynamic duo behind Ovation, a theater and performing arts school that transforms children’s lives. With a background in ballet and musical theater, Michelle shares her journey from professional ballerina in Europe to co-founding a theater school in Florida. Matt, with his experience in acting and directing, talks about his passion for guiding students to become confident performers. Together, they discuss the importance of discipline, perseverance, and passion in the arts, along with the life-changing impact Ovation has had on students of all ages and abilities. They reveal how they’ve adapted to challenges like the pandemic and share their exciting future goals for the school. This episode is full of humor, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories that reveal their dedication to fostering creativity and self-confidence in young performers.

What you’ll hear…

The Founding of Ovation:

• Matt and Michelle talk about their serendipitous meeting through a local theater production, which led to their decision to open Ovation.
• The initial challenges of starting a school, and their vision to create a place that goes beyond just theater education.

Performing Arts and Life Skills:

• Michelle and Matt highlight the transformative power of performing arts, helping children gain confidence, discipline, and resilience.
• The structure and discipline of ballet and theater, and how it instills a strong work ethic in students.
• Matt’s focus on improvisation and the importance of listening in both acting and real life.

Overcoming Challenges and Reinvention:

• They share how the pandemic impacted their school and the decision to rebuild from scratch, along with their busiest summer yet.
• The importance of constantly reinventing and evolving, both in life and the arts.

Inspiring Success Stories:

• They share touching stories of shy students blossoming into confident performers, and others going on to successful careers in theater, including their daughter, who recently toured with Broadway productions of Anastasia and Chicago.
• Ovation’s mission to provide a space where all children, regardless of ability, can thrive.

The Joy of Teaching:

• Michelle reflects on the satisfaction of passing on her extensive knowledge and seeing students grow.
• Matt shares his joy in watching students and Michelle teach, emphasizing the importance of doing something for the love of it.

Future Goals for Ovation:

• Michelle and Matt discuss their aspirations to expand the school, offer more scholarships, and continue providing top-level education to aspiring performers.
• Their dream of bringing in more guest artists and expanding their theater performances.

Insights:

• “What we do is more than just teaching theater. We’re helping kids become better people, more confident, more resilient.” – Michelle
• “The joy of doing what you love is what keeps us going. We want that for every student who comes through our doors.” – Matt
• “We teach discipline, structure, and how to set goals. These are life skills that go beyond the stage.” – Michelle

Resources:

• Ovation Performing Arts School
• Follow Michelle and Matt on Facebook
• Follow Michelle and Matt on Instagram
• Follow Michelle and Matt on YouTube
• Follow Michelle and Matt on TikTok

If Michelle and Matt’s journey inspires you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with anyone interested in the performing arts or personal growth through creativity. Stay tuned for more stories of passion, perseverance, and success in future episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining this heartwarming conversation with Michelle and Matt. Remember, whether through theater or life, it’s about the journey, the discipline, and the joy of growth. Keep pushing forward, keep dreaming, and keep performing!

In this heartfelt episode of What's Your Story?, host Jaime reconnects with an old friend, Chuck Dockery, who has known her since childhood. Chuck shares his incredible life journey, from their days together at summer camp and high school to the profound challenges and life-changing experiences he faced afterward. This episode dives deep into themes of resilience, personal growth, and redemption as Chuck opens up about his struggles with loss, substance abuse, and the law, and how he has worked to rebuild his life.

What you’ll hear…

• Early Memories:
  Jaime and Chuck reminisce about their shared history, including a surprising connection from childhood camp and their time together in high school.
• Loss and Struggles:
  Chuck discusses the impact of losing his mother at a young age and how this loss affected his life trajectory, leading to struggles with alcohol and other challenges during his high school years.
• A Rocky Road:
  Chuck opens up about the difficulties he faced after high school, including moving to Colorado, getting involved in troubling situations, and ultimately serving time in prison.
• The Turning Point:
  Chuck talks about the turning points in his life, including his return to Florida, reconnecting with friends and family, and his journey towards sobriety.
• Reflections on Growth:
  Chuck reflects on the lessons he has learned throughout his life and the importance of self-awareness, forgiveness, and perseverance in overcoming life's challenges.

Insights:

• "You can’t change the past, but you can make peace with it and use it to build a better future." – Chuck Dockery
• "I realized that rock bottom wasn’t the end; it was the foundation I needed to start rebuilding my life." – Chuck Dockery
• "Forgiveness is not just about others, it's about forgiving yourself so you can move forward." – Chuck Dockery

Resources:

• Project 180

If you were inspired by Chuck's story of resilience and redemption, share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Don’t forget to subscribe to What's Your Story? on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us bring more inspiring stories to light.

We love hearing from our listeners! Send us your thoughts, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us in this powerful and inspiring conversation with Chuck Dockery. Remember, it’s never too late to turn your life around and build a better future. Until next time, keep writing your story with hope and resilience.

In this uplifting episode, we sit down with Jeremy Holiday, a Marine veteran, supervisor at Teak Decking Systems, and aspiring musician. Jeremy shares his journey of cultivating positivity, the impact of his military background, and the importance of perseverance. His infectious energy and commitment to living a life filled with gratitude and purpose will leave you inspired to find joy in every day and push through life's challenges.

What you’ll hear…

1. Introduction to Jeremy Holiday:
   • Jaime shares how she met Jeremy through a leadership training session and was immediately struck by his positivity.
   • Jeremy's background, including his time in the Marines and his current role at Teak Decking Systems.
2. Living with Positivity:
   • Jeremy talks about his philosophy of waking up happy every day and how his upbringing taught him to appreciate life.
   • The importance of guarding one's happiness and energy, and not letting negativity disrupt it.
3. Military Influence and Career at Teak Decking Systems:
   • Jeremy discusses how his Marine training has influenced his work ethic and approach to life.
   • His 21-year journey at Teak Decking Systems, where he has held various roles, from installing teak decks on superyachts to supervising different departments.
4. Passion for Cars and Music:
   • Jeremy's love for working on cars, a passion that started in his childhood.
   • His journey as an aspiring musician, the influence of classic artists like the Isley Brothers and B.B. King, and his plans to dive back into music.
5. Family and Mentorship:
   • The profound impact of Jeremy's father on his life, instilling discipline and values that have guided him through tough times.
   • The importance of family and the joy he finds in passing down these values to his own children.
6. The Power of Perseverance:
   • Jeremy emphasizes the importance of never giving up, no matter how hard life gets.
   • His belief that persistence will eventually lead to success, and his encouragement for others to keep pushing through challenges.
7. What’s Next for Jeremy:
   • Jeremy’s aspirations in music, including getting back into the studio and sharing his passion with the world.
   • His goals to continue growing both personally and professionally, while spreading positivity wherever he goes.

Insights:

• “I refuse to be negative. I’m just a happy, energetic type of guy.” – Jeremy Holiday
• “Guard your happiness and don’t let anything disturb your energy.” – Jeremy Holiday
• “No matter how hard you’ve been hit, keep pushing. Your breakthrough will come.” – Jeremy Holiday
  

If Jeremy’s story inspired you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with friends and family who could use a boost of positivity and motivation. Stay tuned for more stories of resilience and inspiration in our upcoming episodes!

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your thoughts, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us in this energizing conversation with Jeremy Holiday. Remember to guard your happiness, persevere through challenges, and spread positivity every day. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Stephanie Troxel Rex, a long-time friend of the host, Jaime. Stephanie opens up about her journey through personal loss, including the passing of her father and stepfather, and the challenges of dealing with her late husband's addiction. Despite these hardships, Stephanie has found healing, purpose, and strength, which she now channels into her career and supporting others. Join us as we explore the power of resilience, the importance of sharing our stories, and the impact of community and support systems in overcoming life's challenges.

What you’ll hear…

1. Reconnecting with Stephanie:
   • Jaime reminisces about her friendship with Stephanie, dating back to their childhood days.
   • The importance of maintaining connections and how social media has played a role in staying in touch.
2. Stephanie’s Background and Current Role:
   • Stephanie shares her journey from Florida to Indiana and her career shift to marketing and sales for a weighted blanket company.
   • The benefits of weighted blankets, especially for people with sensory needs and anxiety.
3. Coping with Loss and Trauma:
   • Stephanie talks about losing both her father and stepfather to cancer within a short period and how these experiences shaped her.
   • She opens up about her late husband's battle with addiction and the impact it had on their family.
4. Raising Children Amidst Challenges:
   • Balancing her career with raising three children, Stephanie discusses the challenges and joys of parenting during difficult times.
   • The importance of teaching her children about resilience and healthy coping mechanisms.
5. The Power of Sharing Your Story:
   • Stephanie emphasizes the importance of being open about struggles, not only for personal healing but also to help others who may be going through similar experiences.
   • The role of social media in both connecting and isolating people, and the balance needed to use it positively.
6. Mental Health and Addiction Awareness:
   • Discussion on the stigma surrounding addiction and the importance of understanding it as a complex issue that can affect anyone.
   • The need for more open conversations about mental health, trauma, and seeking help.
7. Looking Ahead:
   • Stephanie talks about her passion for helping others through their struggles and her aspirations to write a book about her experiences.
   • The idea of continuing to share her story to inspire others to seek healing and live authentically.

Key Takeaways:

• “You can either go inward and deal with grief or numb out and shut it out. I chose to heal.” – Stephanie Troxel
• “Our stories are powerful. When we share the hard parts, we give others permission to do the same.” – Stephanie Troxel
• “No one gets married expecting to get divorced. Addiction can blindside you, and it can happen to anyone.” – Stephanie Troxel

Resources:

• Weighted Blankets by Jockey International
• Follow Stephanie Troxel

If Stephanie’s story touched you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with friends and family who may benefit from hearing her journey. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations in our upcoming episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this insightful conversation with Stephanie Troxel Rex. Remember, sharing your story can be a powerful tool for healing and connection. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!