Crafting A Meaningful Life With Mary Crafts-homer

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts engages in a vital discussion on burnout with Dr. Reggie Thomas, an acknowledged leader and speaker in the field. They delve into the signs and symptoms of burnout, the steps to recovery, and the importance of recognizing this condition in oneself and others. Dr. Thomas shares his personal journey of transitioning from a career defined by exhaustion and stress to one filled with purpose and balance. Dr. Reggie Thomas brings invaluable insights on understanding and overcoming burnout, a prevalent issue impacting professionals at all stages of their careers. Through his narrative and expertise, Dr. Thomas underscores the significance of identifying burnout symptoms like insomnia, emotional depletion, and changes in behavior. He addresses misconceptions and stigmas, urging a shift in organizational culture to foster safe spaces for discussion and healing. Together with Mary Crafts, they highlight the role of self-care and authenticity in navigatin

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts is joined by Georgina Enthoven to explore the integration of meaningful work and sustainable careers. The dialog kicks off with a nostalgic recollection of "The Wizard of Oz," which inspired Craft's lifelong dedication to doing good. Anchoring their discussion around the universal ambition to achieve a career filled with purpose and impact, Crafts and Enthoven delve into the nuances of being a 'do-gooder' in today's work environment. Harnessing Enthoven’s vast experience, the conversation navigates through the challenges and triumphs of aligning profitability with philanthropy. Emphasizing the pressing need for change in workplace cultures and the role of leadership in championing meaningful work, this episode shines a light on how to effectively channel one’s professional hours toward social good. Concepts like the 'unrewarded do-gooder' and the staggering statistic of a 90,000-hour career serve as cornerstones for discussing how to balance th

Join host Mary Crafts as she embarks on an enlightening conversation with Dr. Tracey Shors, an esteemed neuroscientist from Rutgers University, as they delve into the intricacies of the human brain and explore innovative ways to craft a meaningful life. Mary shares her personal reflections on pursuing a life with no regrets and discusses Dr. Shors's captivating journey and significant contributions to neuroscience, specifically in how the brain processes trauma and stress. In this episode, Dr. Shors unpacks her extensive research findings, revealing her development of a unique methodology known as "MAP" or "Mental and Physical" training. This method combines meditation and aerobic exercise to foster cognitive harmony and resilience against stress. With a focus on reducing rumination, Dr. Shors explains the importance of synchronizing brain activity through learning and physical exertion, offering listeners practical insights to improve mental health and overall well-being. Discover the science behind the brai

In this insightful episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Dr. Tasha Golden, who shares her transformative journey from being a touring folk singer to becoming a pioneering voice in public health. Dr. Golden discusses her evolution from using songwriting as a personal outlet to exploring how creative arts can significantly enhance well-being and facilitate communication through her research. This episode unveils the power of art as a tool for healing and societal change, encouraging listeners to explore creativity as a means to enrich life and health. Explore the expansive role that creativity plays in health, as Dr. Golden and Mary Crafts delve into topics like the therapeutic power of music, arts-based data gathering, and the potential of arts on prescription. Dr. Golden reveals how creative expression can uncover essential insights missing from conventional healthcare surveys, using her experience with incarcerated youth to highlight the liberating power of personal narratives. W

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Jill Schulman, a revered voice on the subject of bravery and author of "The Bravery Effect." The discussion is centered on the concept of courage as a scientific, learnable skill, essential for reaching a well-lived life. Jill shares insights from her research and book, which redefine bravery beyond the conventional stereotypes of fearlessness and into meaningful action in the face of fear. Mary and Jill dive deep into understanding bravery as critical to overcoming life’s challenges and growing into one’s authentic self. This episode explores how bravery is not just about major heroic acts but involves everyday courage to pursue meaningful goals. Jill elucidates the psychological frameworks and evidence-based strategies for cultivating bravery, drawing from her background in positive psychology and personal experiences, including her transformation from a military officer to a motivational leader in corporate settings. About the Guest

In this engaging episode of "Crafting Your Meaningful Life," hosted by Mary Crafts, the spotlight is on Deonne Johnson, an expert in instructional design and personal transformation. The conversation delves into Deonne's new book, "From Tired to Inspired," which takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and healing. With themes ranging from vulnerability to self-alignment, this episode is packed with insights for listeners on how to live truly inspired and fulfilling lives. The episode kicks off with a warm introduction to Deonne's unique approach towards personal growth, highlighting her book that intertwines her personal stories with practical guidance. As the episode unfolds, listeners will learn how Deonne’s background in instructional design has influenced her ability to create a roadmap for personal development that resonates with a broad audience. The discussion covers how aligning personal values with life actions is a cornerstone of living with authenticity and purpose. Mary and Deonne also explor

In this engaging episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," Mary Crafts is joined by Lauren Hale, a dynamic social media influencer who has championed the beauty needs of women over 40. Lauren, with her extensive following and striking authenticity, shares her journey from teaching to becoming a beauty influencer. This episode explores the underrepresented space of mature beauty influencers and the authentic narratives that create meaningful connections between creators and their audiences. Mary and Lauren delve into how makeup can be both a form of self-expression and self-care, reflecting inner joy rather than covering up perceived flaws. Throughout the conversation, the importance of embracing personal authenticity and the empowerment derived from overcoming challenges are central themes. Lauren shares the pivotal moments that led her to shift careers and the significant impact of vulnerability and storytelling in connecting with her audience. Her journey underscores how personal struggles can be repurposed

In this engaging episode of “Crafting a Meaningful Life,” host Mary Crafts welcomes RHIAH Krista Kujat to explore the intricacies of human emotions captured in her latest work, "Life’s Poetic Glossary." Through an insightful discussion, the two delve into the significance of living authentically, overcoming duty-bound mindsets, and embracing the power of self-forgiveness. They talk about the universality of the emotions Krista articulates poetically in her book, urging listeners to resonate with their vulnerabilities and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Throughout the episode, Mary and Krista discuss the profound impact of courage, the ensnaring nature of duty, the essence of forgiveness, and the contrasting mindsets of scarcity and abundance. Krista reveals her inspirations and personal insights with each theme, providing the audience with relatable and actionable wisdom. The conversation highlights the book as a resource for personal growth, emphasizing how it guides readers to interpret the wisdom on

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts invites the inspiring Daren Watts to share his extraordinary journey from a successful OB GYN to a candidate for mayor, following a life-changing accident. Daren recounts his experience of breaking his neck during a family vacation, which resulted in temporary paralysis. Despite facing grave uncertainties, he harnessed the power of hope, persistence, and community support to regain his mobility and reclaim his life. Throughout the conversation, Mary and Daren explore themes of resilience, healing, and service. Daren highlights the importance of repetition in rehabilitation and details how adopting a mindset of gratitude and faith enabled his recovery. Now focused on serving his community, Darren has announced his candidacy for mayor of Holladay, motivated by an enduring passion for giving back. He also discusses his podcast, "Not Your Doc Anymore," which offers a platform for medical professionals to share transformative personal and profession

In this eye-opening episode of Crafting A Meaningful Life, host Mary Crafts invites her dear friend Lacey Byrd to discuss the journey from a challenging upbringing to an inspiring life of entrepreneurship and motivational speaking. Lacey candidly shares her experiences growing up in foster care, coping with trauma, and ultimately overcoming these obstacles to become a beacon of light for others. Despite the hardships she faced, Lacey embodies resilience through her artistic endeavors and her significant contributions to the entrepreneurial community, like the Breakfast Palooza event. During the conversation, Lacey delves deep into her marriage, personal breakdown and the breakthrough that led her and her husband Nate to co-found businesses that help others. Central to the discussion is Lacey’s exploration of core human emotions like fear, love, and acceptance, themes that define the human experience and are crucial for personal growth. Through her story, listeners are encouraged to identify and break free fro

In a world that often sweeps trauma under the rug and expects survivors to simply “move on,” Lindsay Jepperson’s story is a clarion call for honesty, healing, and hope. On a recent episode of Crafting a Meaningful Life, Lindsay sat down with the host to share her journey from a childhood marked by abuse and addiction to a life anchored in faith, service, and purpose. Her message is clear: no matter the storm, you can adjust your sails and chart a new course. She gives Mary the most powerful lessons from her story, offering actionable advice and in-depth insights for anyone seeking to overcome adversity, support others, or simply live more meaningfully.  Key Lessons and Ideas: The Power of Resilience:    Lindsay’s early life was marked by significant challenges, including being a NICU baby, experiencing childhood sexual abuse, and navigating the foster care system. Despite these hardships, she emerged stronger, showing us that resilience is not about avoiding difficulties but about facing them head-on and grow

In this engaging episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Jessica Gunn, an inspiring figure in the world of fitness and wellness. Together, they discuss the multi-faceted dynamics of living a meaningful life, touching on spirituality, physical fitness, emotional health, and the importance of a supportive social network. Mary emphasizes the interconnectedness of these aspects in her personal journey and shines a light on how Jessica's experiences have shaped her approach to building a fulfilling life. This episode serves as an uplifting guide for listeners to reflect on their personal growth and development. Through a heartfelt exchange, Jessica shares her struggles and triumphs, notably her journey through divorce and how it catalyzed a path to self-discovery and empowerment. Her candid reflections on transforming fear into faith and learning to lead by example underscore the episode's central theme: crafting a meaningful and resilient life despite adversities. Jessica articulates ho

In this engaging episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts is joined by Davina Stanley, a communication expert known for her mastery in structured thinking and conveying complex ideas with clarity. The episode explores Davina's fascinating life journey from rural Australia to the bustling world of Hong Kong, New York, Tokyo, and finally Seattle, highlighting her resilience and adaptability in varied environments. As they delve into the intricacies of effective communication, listeners are offered insights into improving personal and professional interactions. Davina introduces her expertise in the Pyramid Principle, a method that transforms intricate concepts into clear, hierarchical communication. Her framework empowers individuals to present their ideas persuasively in workplace settings and beyond. Mary and Davina discuss the art of structured communication, emphasizing the increasing importance of relationships and clarity in post-COVID-19 professional environments. Davina's approach invol

Join Mary Crafts and Brenda Betteridge for a lively chat about why lifelong learning is a game-changer, especially after hitting the big 5-0. They dive into how everyday moments can teach us something new, the perks of going back to school as an adult, and how tech, like AI, is shaking up the way we learn. It's all about staying curious, bouncing back from life's curveballs, and chasing knowledge to live a life full of meaning, even when things get tough.   About the Guest: Brenda Betteridge is a dedicated lifelong learner who currently works at Utah Valley University (UVU) in the department of Executive and Professional Education. With a passion for continuous growth and education, Brenda is enrolled in college, pursuing knowledge beyond her initial explorations in speed writing back in 1979. Her commitment to education shines through her involvement in developing programs that foster skill development for professionals, including AI for professionals. Brenda is also an active member of the Women's Business

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts is joined by Karla Olson, a transformative coach and best-selling author focused on helping women navigate the empty nest phase with confidence and joy. Together, they explore the emotional and practical aspects of this life transition, offering listeners valuable insights into how to approach the empty nest phase with intentionality and self-love. Karla shares her journey of self-discovery which began in earnest as she became more aware of the impending empty nest stage. This episode sheds light on the importance of reflecting on one's past while simultaneously designing a vibrant future. Karla breaks down her book's structure into past, present, and future sections, providing actionable steps for women to take charge of their lives and pursue their passions. Authenticity and inner guidance are emphasized as keys to living a fulfilling life during this new stage. The conversation is rich with practical advice, warm wisdom, and heartfelt anecdo

Join Mary Crafts as she welcomes Nate Randle to this week’s episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life." In a heartfelt conversation, Mary and Nate explore the transformative power of personal trials and how overcoming adversity can shape a person’s commitment to serving others. With more than just professional achievements, Nate shares his dedication to supporting single parents and his personal story of loss and resilience. In this compelling discussion, Nate Randle reveals how his life experiences, including the loss of his mother and daughter, have driven him to become a beacon of support for those in need. Sharing his personal journey, Nate uncovers the profound impact that empathy and vulnerability have had on his life and leadership style. This episode captures some extraordinary life lessons and serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity. Nate and Mary delve into themes of choice, sacrifice, and legacy, emphasizing the importance of showing up for others and living a lif

In this episode of Crafting a Meaningful Life, host Mary Crafts engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Julia Henning, a life coach and author, about how to invite ease into our lives. The discussion opens with Mary sharing a personal story about realizing how some people might find reward in making life harder than it needs to be. This revelation ties seamlessly into Julia’s expertise and philosophy as captured in her book "It Gets to Be Easy." The dialogue explores how life can be approached with an alignment perspective, allowing individuals to navigate challenges with more grace and less struggle. The episode delves into the core differences between living life easily versus with ease, and how aligning with one’s authentic self can lead to profound life changes. Julia elaborates on how ease isn't about eliminating challenges but reshaping our relationship with life’s circumstances. Through engaging anecdotes and reflective insights, they explore various modalities and strategies like Water Releas

Join Mary Crafts in this thought-provoking episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," featuring Scott Schwab, a trailblazer in the fields of entrepreneurship and agritech. This episode delves into the notion of crafting your own unique path through life, embracing entrepreneurship regardless of perceived limitations, and recognizing the power within to guide one's future. Mary and Scott engage in an inspiring discussion that covers wellness, education, and entrepreneurship, offering listeners insights and practical advice on living a more fulfilling life. In this comprehensive discussion, Scott unfolds how his journey led to the founding of Mett Naturals, a company dedicated to creating high-quality hemp products that address common health issues like inflammation and anxiety. Learn about his mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the role of community and collaboration in business success, highlighting his experiences in both the agritech and nonprofit sectors. As Scott articulates the mean

In this engaging episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Adriana Shuman, an expert in functional medicine, to dive deep into health and wellness from a root-cause perspective. Together, they explore how the symptoms our bodies exhibit are not merely nuisances but valuable signals guiding us toward better health choices. Adriana discusses her transition from traditional pharmacy to functional medicine as she sought more effective solutions beyond merely treating symptoms with medication. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the human body and delving into natural and functional treatments to achieve true healing. In addition to discussing the intricacies of functional medicine, Adriana highlights the critical role of lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, and exercise on our overall well-being. By breaking down her "Live Well" methodology, Adriana outlines the four pillars of health: managing one's inner and outer environments, prioritizing nutritious foods, ensuring restfu

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes her friend and humanitarian leader, Heidi Totten, to discuss the empowering journey of crafting one's life purpose. This insightful conversation covers Heidi's transformative experiences in Kenya and how she has devoted herself to uplifting communities through 100 Humanitarians. Set against the compelling backdrop of personal purpose versus external missions, Heidi shares her belief that purpose comes from within, using Kenya as a vehicle to enrich her own and others' lives. Delve into the nuances of finding and living one's purpose as Heidi narrates her remarkable journey from corporate life to becoming a changemaker in Africa. The episode explores the intertwined themes of self-identity, empowerment, and the profound difference that purposeful endeavors can make. With engaging stories about innovative projects like garden towers and water systems, Heidi illustrates how small acts of service in Kenya resonate with larger global impact