Spark Something New podcast

53:34

Send us a text She’s baaaack. On this week's episode, Dr. E returns to drop truth bombs, bust myths, and lovingly drag us all into better health. If you’ve been gaslit by your doctor, living off caffeine and good vibes, or Googling “is brain fog normal?” — this episode is your wake-up call. And spoiler: no, it’s not normal. We’re talking health optimization — not in the “buy this overpriced supplement” kind of way, but in the “how do I not feel like trash every day” kind of way. Dr. E breaks it all down: why you shouldn’t be talking longevity when you can’t even get off the couch, how dementia is basically slow-motion inflammation, and what your body is actually trying to tell you when you’re bloated, foggy, or moody. Hot takes & highlights: 🍟 Why your standard American diet is playing you (and your brain) for a fool 🧠 Alzheimer’s = Type 3 diabetes? Oh yes, we go there 🧂 Probiotics, sea salt, and the BS wellness trends you don’t need right now 🥗 Why food is not just fuel — it’s code for your brain 🔥 The real flex? Waking up every day feeling sharp, energized, and unbothered 💊 Supplements? 10% of the game. Gratitude, sunshine, and sleep? The power plays. You don’t need fancy trackers, overpriced adaptogens, or a morning routine that takes 3 hours. You need honesty, clarity, and maybe a little tough love. So let’s stop chasing fads and start listening to our amazing bodies. 👉 Hit play if you’re ready to go from surviving to thriving . EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. E on LinkedIn Connect with Dr E. on Instagram Connect with Dr. on Facebook Connect with Dr. E on TikTok Follow Dr. E on YouTube Visit Dr. E's website: www.drefratlamandre.com Get Dr. E's Book: It's NOT In Your Head Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 26: What We All Wish Leaders Had - Talking SEL with Future Cain 38:35

há 11 dias38:35

38:35

Send us a text In this episode, we're diving into the power of social emotional leadership with the brilliant and joyful Future Cain—CEO of Future of SEL and a nationally recognized expert in social emotional intelligence and workplace wellness. We explore what it really means to lead from a place of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and positive relationships—whether you’re managing a team, raising a family, or showing up for your community. Future shares her signature "Four A's Framework" to help you grow as a socially emotional leader: Awareness, Acknowledgment, Apology, and Action. We talk candidly about the wellness crisis so many are facing, the chasm between how leaders think they’re perceived vs. how they actually are , and how small shifts—like hydration, sunlight, and reflection—can spark big transformation. If you’ve ever felt drained, disconnected, or unsure how to show up as a better leader (in any part of life), this episode will leave you inspired, equipped, and energized . EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Future on LinkedIn Learn more about the F uture of SEL View Future's video on Mental Health Awareness Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 25: The Cure for Disconnection: Reclaiming What Makes You Feel Alive with Dr. Adam Dorsay 37:32

há 18 dias37:32

37:32

Send us a text In this heartfelt and thoughtful conversation, Katie explores the concept of connection with psychologist, executive coach, speaker, podcast host, and author, Dr. Adam Dorsay, whose new book Super Psyched dives deep into how connection shapes fulfillment, happiness, and resilience. Against the backdrop of rising loneliness, exhaustion, and societal disconnection, they explore how reconnecting to self, others, the world, and something greater can transform our lives. KEY TAKEAWAYS: 1. We’re Facing a Human Connection Crisis: Loneliness and social isolation is at an all-time high. We are soulfully exhausted as a human species. Many of us are disconnected from what gives us vitality and joy. 2. What Is Connection, Really? Adam defines connection as “vitality, aliveness, and life force.” It's not about surface-level interaction; it's about resonance—emotional authenticity, congruence, and feeling fully alive. 3. The Four Types of Connection (from Super Psyched ): Connection to Self Connection to Others Connection to the World Connection to Something Greater 4. Disconnection Often Comes from: Numbing behaviors (doomscrolling, binge-watching, busying ourselves). Cognitive biases (negativity bias, social comparison, FOMO). Living inauthentically (e.g., pursuing a path others chose for us). 5. Reconnection Is About Small but Intentional Steps: Pursuing activities that once brought joy. Reaching out to friends for meaningful conversations. Creating instead of consuming. Connection isn’t about removing things from our lives—it’s about adding the right things back in. The journey toward reconnection is less about restriction and more about rediscovery and expansion. Listen now and let this conversation spark something new in how you view connection in your own life! EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Adam on LinkedIn Connect with Adam on Instagram and Facebook Learn more about Adam on his website Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 24: Giving Life to Your Side Hustle with Ophelia Chambliss 39:44

há 25 dias39:44

39:44

Send us a text This week, we're diving deep into the power of creativity, storytelling, and personal agency with the incredible Ophelia Chambliss —fine artist, visual communicator, and community change agent. Ophelia shares her journey as a self-taught artist, her passion for realistic cubism , and how she uses art as a tool for storytelling and empowerment. She also opens up about turning a side hustle into a sustainable business , the barriers many creatives face, and why she felt called to create Ophelia’s Making Agency —a nonprofit dedicated to helping creatives build sustainable careers. We talk about: ✨ How to discover the thing you are called to do ✨ The importance of self-worth in putting your work into the world ✨ Why your internal dialogue shapes your success and how to shift it ✨ The intersection of art, identity, and community impact ✨ Practical steps for creatives to monetize their passion Ophelia’s wisdom and energy will inspire you to step into your creative power and bring your unique gifts into the world. This is an episode that will leave you reflecting on your own personal mission and how you can make an impact. Listen now and let this conversation spark something new in you! Episode Resources: Connect with Ophelia on LinkedIn Visit Ophelia's Artist Website Learn more about Ophelia's Making Agency Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 23: For the Love of All Things Learning with Dr. Pedro Rivera 42:46

há 5 weeks42:46

42:46

Send us a text On this episode of the Spark Something New podcast, Katie chats with Dr. Pedro Rivera, the President of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and former Pennsylvania State Secretary of Education. They discuss Dr. Rivera's journey as a lifelong learner, his passion for equitable education, and his five-step process for intentional learning. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on education and the necessity of embracing new technologies. Dr. Rivera emphasizes the importance of taking risks, adjusting along the way, and finding your own unique learning path. Tune in to learn how to spark something new in your own approach to learning and growth. 00:31 Introducing Dr. Pedro Rivera 03:55 Pedro's Approach to Lifelong Learning 07:08 Embracing Failure and Taking Risks 10:14 Balancing Leadership and Personal Growth 21:15 Practical Steps for Intentional Learning 23:02 The Role of AI in Learning and Education 30:48 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth 39:00 Conventional Wisdom and Learning 40:33 Five Golden Nuggets of Wisdom EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Pedro on LinkedIn Learn more about Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 22: Living Into Your Authenticity for Healing and Power with Dr. Amber Sessoms 57:48

há 6 weeks57:48

57:48

Send us a text This episode kicks off Women's History Month with the incredible, Dr. Amber Sessoms, a professional speaker, facilitator, consultant, and school psychologist. We discuss the principles of living authentically, the importance of knowing oneself, and the steps needed to unlearn harmful narratives. Amber shares her insights on the need for curiosity, finding supportive communities, and setting boundaries. They also touch on how leaders can model authentic leadership in their organizations. This episode is filled with practical advice and heartfelt stories aimed at helping you embrace your true self and lead courageously. 00:30 Introducing Dr. Amber Sessoms 02:28 The Essence of Authenticity 07:25 Finding Your Mirror 10:35 Navigating Systems and Belonging 13:43 The Power of Curiosity and Discernment 16:46 Embracing Your True Self 20:48 Challenging Systems and Building Community 34:55 The Importance of Self-Care and Healing 37:07 Understanding and Setting Boundaries 42:29 The Role of Identity in Self-Worth 45:32 Authentic Leadership in Organizations 54:41 Finding Your Community and True Friends EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Amber on LinkedIn Learn more about Amber's work at Natural Inclination LLC Amber's Favorite List Amber's Substack + Podcast Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 21: Learning Through the Body with Dr. Libby Tisdell 34:42

há 7 weeks34:42

34:42

Send us a text On this week's episode, I have the pleasure for chatting with Dr. Elizabeth Tisdell, also known as Libby, a distinguished professor emerita in lifelong learning and adult education. Libby shares her vast knowledge on embodied learning, a concept that emphasizes the importance of learning and experiencing life through our bodies. She talks about her journey, from being a massage therapist and a campus minister to her academic achievements and spiritual practices. We delve into the significance of embodied learning, how our bodies can provide wisdom that our heads can't figure out, and explore practical ways like heart rhythm meditation, yoga, and even singing to connect more deeply with ourselves. Tune in to spark something new in how you think about learning through your body! 00:35 Meet Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Tisdell 01:13 Libby's Academic and Professional Journey 03:47 Understanding Embodied Learning 05:50 Libby's Personal Experiences with Embodied Learning 12:18 Heart Rhythm Meditation and Its Benefits 29:15 Practical Tips for Embodied Learning 32:49 Conclusion and Reflections EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Libby on LinkedIn Learn more about Libby's research and extensive career Breath & Heart Meditation App Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 20: It's NOT in Your Head - Challenging Medical Gaslighting with Dr. E (Efrat Lamandre) 49:18

há 8 weeks49:18

49:18

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the incredible Dr. E (Efrat Lamandre, PhD, FNP-C), a medical disruptor known for her work against medical gaslighting. Dr. E shares her journey into functional and integrative medicine. We dive deep into why medical gaslighting predominantly impacts women and minority groups and how we can advocate for ourselves within the healthcare system. Dr. E explains the differences between conventional, functional, and integrative medicine while urging providers to be open-minded and collaborative. We also discuss the importance of listening to our bodies and not accepting dismissive diagnoses. Spoiler alert: there's a part two coming on how to thrive and prevent Alzheimer's. Can't wait for you to hear it! 00:32 Introducing Dr. Efrat Lamandre 03:00 Understanding Medical Gaslighting 03:29 Katie's Personal Experience with Anemia 06:07 Defining Medical Gaslighting 11:57 Dr. E's Journey to Functional Medicine 15:41 The Limitations of Evidence-Based Medicine 24:25 Understanding Pre-Disease States 24:54 Navigating the Healthcare System 27:24 The Role of Functional Medicine 30:23 Conventional vs. Functional Medicine 35:16 Identifying Trustworthy Providers 37:54 The Importance of Open Dialogue 47:14 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. E on LinkedIn Connect with Dr E. on Instagram Connect with Dr. on Facebook Connect with Dr. E on TikTok Follow Dr. E on YouTube Visit Dr. E's website: www.drefratlamandre.com Get Dr. E's Book: It's NOT In Your Head Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 19: Leading with Love and Purpose - An Insightful Conversation with Mark Maynard 41:56

há 9 weeks41:56

41:56

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the incredible Mark Maynard. He's a consultant, leadership coach, keynote speaker, and author who transitioned from decades in the hospitality industry to the entrepreneurial world. Our conversation dives deep into leading with love and living with purpose. Mark shares his profound belief in combining purpose, strategy, and action in business, and how these principles help leaders and their teams thrive. We also discuss his personal and professional retreats for goal-setting and reflection, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, optimism, trust, and patience in leadership. Plus, we talk about creating and repairing bonds within teams. Mark's insights are sure to enrich your week and spark something new in you, whether you're in a management position or not. So join us, and let's light up your life and leadership journey together! 00:29 Meet Mark Maynard 02:05 Mark's Personal Retreat Experience 08:02 Building Bonds in Teams 18:05 Leading with Love: Generosity, Curiosity, Trust, and Patience 29:16 Purpose-Driven Leadership 38:14 Resources for Loving and Purposeful Leadership 41:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Mark Maynard on LinkedIn Learn more about Maynard Consulting Book Recommendations: Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans How to Know a Person by David Brooks The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle EPISODE GUEST: Mark Maynard is a hospitality consultant, leadership coach and keynote speaker who empowers leaders to narrow the gap between their goals and their organization’s ability to achieve them. His firm, Maynard Consulting, builds on decades of experience at Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, where Mark conceptualized, built, and operated businesses in different sectors of the service industry. In his time at USHG, he was a versatile leader known for using a holistic approach to develop teams, create new brands, and enable businesses to become and remain profitable. As a consultant, he helps entrepreneurs optimize three areas of performance – the customer journey, the employee experience, and financial performance. Mark is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Pillsbury Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship at Cornell University and is a regular guest lecturer at Columbia Business School and NYU. In 2019, he co-authored The Next Frontier of Restaurant Management with Cornell’s Alex Susskind, and the authors explore how data can be leveraged to improve guest service and enhance the employee experience. Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 18: Becoming Your Best & Truest Self with Carrie Johnson 38:48

há 10 weeks38:48

38:48

Send us a text On this episode, I’m thrilled to chat with my dear friend Carrie Johnson, an entrepreneur and thought leader with 30 years of experience in business and organizational strategy, founder of Girls on the Run of Lancaster-Lebanon, and an inspiring community leader. We dive deep into what it means to discover and be your truest self in a world obsessed with perfection. Carrie shares her wisdom on finding true self-awareness and the importance of a supportive village. We also explore the metaphor of uncovering the 'diamond' within us and practical ways to reconnect with ourselves. Get ready for an enriching conversation that will help you reflect on your own journey and maybe spark something new in you! 00:31 Introducing Keri Johnson 02:42 Discovering Your Truest Self 07:23 The Power of Community 10:09 Practices for Self-Reflection 15:43 Dropping Below the Surface 30:01 Trusting Yourself and Others 35:58 Final Thoughts and Takeaways EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Carrie Johnson on LinkedIn Learn more about Drop Below the Surface Retreats Morning Pages Exercise by Julia Cameron Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 17: Getting Uncomfortable with Dr. A.J. Merlino 47:29

há 11 weeks47:29

47:29

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the super cool Dr. A.J. Merlino, Executive Director of Learning Innovation & Workforce Solutions at Thinking Through AI. A.J.'s got an impressive background in professional music, endurance athletics, and higher education. We dive deep into getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Need a blueprint? A.J.'s got you covered: reframe failure, don't take things personally, stay curious, appreciate your growth, and find your flow state. It's a fascinating convo about pushing limits and celebrating the messy journey of learning and growth. Tune in to discover actionable steps to thrive through discomfort and continuously spark something new in your life. 00:30 Meet A.J. Merlino 01:57 Embracing Uncomfortability 04:05 The Power of Community and Practice 07:02 Navigating Cultural Expectations 10:43 Addicted to Achievement or Challenge? 13:03 Learning from Failures 18:15 The Role of Social Media and Community 26:36 Embracing Curiosity and Individuality 27:07 Reflecting on Personal Growth 28:38 Reframing Failure and Embracing Challenges 32:37 Finding Your Flow State 41:41 The Importance of Wandering in Career Paths 46:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with A.J. Merlino on LinkedIn Learn more about Thinking Through AI Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 16: Choose Your Hard 24:57

há 12 weeks24:57

24:57

Send us a text On this episode, we dive deep into why 2025 has been HARD for so many of us. It's been "brutiful" (both brutal and beautiful) in many ways. We explore the different types of hard and why THIS hard is different, yet essential to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. We also touch upon the concept of "grateful yearning" and why this calls us to choose our hard. Including how it conjures a fear that often keeps us stuck, much like a chained elephant. The only way to break free is to face the truth that is within us and untether ourselves from fear. I hope this episode inspires you to choose the hard that leads to freedom and joy. And know that you are not alone in this journey. Choose your hard. 00:53 Reflecting on a Challenging Year 01:46 Understanding Different Types of Hardships 03:45 The Struggle with Change 08:26 Choosing Your Hard 13:07 Facing Your Fears 19:02 The Power of Self-Realization 22:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 15: "What's Worth Wanting?" with Jonathan Fields 54:03

há 13 weeks54:03

54:03

Send us a text Join me for a rich conversation with Jonathan Fields, a world-renowned thought leader and creator of the 'Good Life Project' and SPARKED body of work. Together, we explore profound themes such as the pursuit of a meaningful life, overcoming societal work norms, the importance of self-discovery, and finding joy through family and nature. Jonathan shares personal stories, the impact of pivotal life moments, insights on managing internal and external critics, and his innovative approach to life experiments aimed at continuous learning and growth. This episode is a deep dive into how to navigate life's uncertainties and cultivate a balanced, fulfilling life. 00:27 Introducing Jonathan Fields 02:07 Jonathan's Sources of Energy 04:31 Challenging Work Norms 08:42 The Importance of Self-Discovery 12:24 Jonathan's Journey and Wake-Up Calls 20:00 Running Life Experiments 26:08 Recommitting to Physical and Psychological Wellness 27:04 Balancing Work and Personal Relationships 29:18 A New Writing Challenge: Embracing Fiction 32:35 The Experimental Approach to Life 37:50 Managing Internal and External Critics 45:49 The Butterfly Effect: A Business Transformation 51:14 Closing Thoughts on Embracing Uncertainty EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Jonathan Fields on LinkedIn Explore the Good Life Project Access Jonathan's blog: Awake at the Wheel Explore the SPARKED body of work Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 14: Be Consistently "Not Stupid" - Embracing Uncertainty with Dr. Liz Krider 48:11

há 14 weeks48:11

48:11

Send us a text We're back with Season 2 of the Spark Something New Podcast! And boy, do I have a great conversation for you to launch into this new year. I'm chatting with the fabulous Dr. Liz Krider, a PhD chemist, speaker, and founder of KSA Catalyst. Liz is on a mission to help students discover their purpose through experiential learning, projects, and internships. We dive into how embracing life's uncertainties can lead to discovering your purpose. Liz shares her journey of how her "experimental" and "experiential" approach to life, influenced by her Caltech background, can be applied to personal growth and community impact. We discuss inverted reasoning, tinkering with your life, and the importance of avoiding "what contributes to a miserable life" to find deeper fulfillment in your life and work. Whether you're a student or a career professional, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tips to inspire you to live with intention and purpose! 00:28 Meet Dr. Liz Kreider 03:48 Discovering Purpose Through Experience 05:54 Liz's Personal Journey and Insights 09:12 Empowering Students with Purpose 14:06 Embracing Uncertainty as a Catalyst 18:44 Real-Life Applications and Advocacy 24:29 Exploring Personal Solutions 24:42 Prototyping and Experimentation 25:08 Mindset Shift: Embracing Tinkering 27:03 Learning from Entrepreneurs 32:07 The Power of Inverted Reasoning 34:07 Applying Inverted Reasoning in Life 41:43 Finding Purpose Through Experimentation 47:04 Conclusion and Reflections EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Dr. Liz Krider on LinkedIn Learn more about KSA Catalyst and Passion Projects Transcript of Charlie Munger's 1986 Harvard Commencement Speech: "How to Guarantee a Life of Misery" Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

Spark Something New

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Episode 13: The Power in Pause & Reclaiming Your Story with Francine Apy 44:25

há 17 weeks44:25