Ever Better Podcast | Inspiring Stories | Motivating | Transition With Grace | Fulfillment | Wisdom

The extraordinary Laura Roeder is a CEO who started her first business at the age of 22. During our discussion, Laura talks about how her parents inspired her to start a business, why she can’t imagine working for anyone else, and how she balances her work-life with her life-life, while caring for a two-year-old child. As she's grown MeetEdgar, a company that helps businesses and individuals manage their social media management through a very cool tool, Laura hasn't taken venture capital. She's invested profits back into the company and grown it from the ground up. She discusses the benefits of this approach and how it's often discounted when startups are planning their strategy.  If you’re considering a life or career transition, you may be interested in my Discover What’s Next coaching program. Send me an email at Lisa@EverBetterU.com and we will schedule a 1-hour complimentary consultation. Key Takeaways:   [3:44] Laura shares her early influences and her journey of entrepreneurship. [6:49] MeetEdgar, a

I met Jessica Handler one night as I was walking through a restaurant in Washington, D.C. with my brother, Peter Conners. Peter was in D.C. to attend the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference and to speak on a panel about the relationships between authors and editors – he is both. Afterwards we decided to head out to dinner at a place where you would naturally expect to find writers…a restaurant called Busboys and Poets. It was there that I connected with Jessica and her cousin, Erika Goldman, Publisher of Bellevue Literary Press.   Jessica's memoir, Invisible Sisters, is her story of growing up with two sisters, Susie and Sarah, who both had fatal medical conditions, and how her family did their best to cope. Through this book, Jessica honors their memory and the challenges that her parents experienced.   Her second book, Braving the Fire, is a guide to writing about grief and loss. Jessica now uses her experiences, wisdom, and talents to help others heal through writing.   In our discussion

This is part two of my three part series on how to change jobs or careers like a PRO! PRO stands for Preparing, Researching, and Opportunity Seeking – three steps to guide your thought processes and activities to make a professional shift. In Podcast 65 I gave you five ways for preparing, and today, I’m going to share my recommended method for Researching. You can check out all PRO information at EverBetteru.com/PRO. If you’d like personal coaching to work through these stages send me an email at lisa@everbetteru.com and we’ll schedule some time to chat about where you are in your life and what you’d like to achieve. Think about researching as it relates to what you want to do in your life. This is a YOU-centered activity. How cool is that? How often do you take the time to stop and think about what would work best for you? While you’re researching, think about what you want to do in the short-term and long-term, keeping in mind that each job is a stepping stone to something else. With every new position yo

Beca Lewis is a world-class life shifter! She’s been a dancer and choreographer and a certified financial planner. And, she’s currently an artist, writer, life coach, and a podcaster. She’s so interested in how people navigate life changes that she created a podcast called Shift the Story! Her blended family includes 8 adult children and 5 grandchildren. She stays in touch with all generations of her blended family through mastering whatever social media her grandchildren are using. Beca and I believe you are never too old to learn something new - including social media! Beca has an Etsy store where she sells art that features inspirational words. For example, “What your perceive to be reality, magnifies” and “stretch your imagination muscle towards the power of good.” And, her self-help books are filled with inspirational words of wisdom. In the 60+ interviews I’ve done for Ever Better, no one has discussed how to get started on Etsy and what it’s like to have an Etsy store. This is a great option for those

Stephanie Dodier was a vice president at a major retailer in Canada at age 35. She traveled the country opening stores and training employees, and felt like she had her life under control. But one day as she got up to speak at a meeting, her body gave out and she landed in the hospital. Her doctor broke the news that she hadn’t had a heart attack as everyone assumed. She had experienced a panic attack. This led Stephanie to examine her life and habits - and to rework just about everything! Today she is 100 pounds lighter, a weight loss coach and clinical nutritionist, and works from wherever she likes (aka "digital nomad.") She recently published a lifestyle book called Keto Connector. In our discussion, Stephanie shares what caused her panic attack, her path since then, and ideas about shifting your life. As you listen to Stephanie’s story, I hope you’ll be inspired to think about what’s working and what’s not in your life and take a step towards making whatever change you need. If you're considering a lifes

How do you navigate through transitions in your life? If you're like most people, no matter how excited you may be for a change, you also feel a tinge of fear underneath the surface. Taking time to prepare and plan for a transition can ease uncertainty and doubt. In this podcast, I discuss preparing for a job or career change and the steps also apply to other transitions.  PRO stands for Preparing, Researching, and Opportunity seeking. Today’s podcast focuses on the first part of the transition framework, Preparing. Subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss future shows on Researching and Opportunity Seeking. But first - let’s get prepared!   Key Takeaways: [03:21] 5-Steps to take when you are preparing for a career or job change. 1. Create a separate gmail account. 2. Write a short biography before updating your resume. 3. Check your personal style and make needed updates. 4. Subscribe to daily or weekly job alerts. 5. Do something outside of your comfort zone. [13:08] Why would someone attend a Toastmaster

Phyllis Piano is an energetic woman with a thirst for life...and great wine! Her first novel, Hostile Takeover: A Love Story was recently awarded the Gold Seal by the Independent Book Publishers Association! The story draws from her experience as a corporate communications executive, merging office intrigue with romance. Her second book is with her publisher, her third is with her editor, and she's already started on her fourth! Phyllis is also an avid bread baker, food blogger, world traveler, and has homes in the U.S. and the UK. Phyllis shares how she rediscovered herself, after years of being too busy at work. She now wakes up at 5 a.m. thinking about recipes and writing and the people that she mentors. She says that it's good to live a little bit in your head, to let your imagination run wild, and to be true to who you are. After spending decades writing for the corporations that employed her, she feels a sense of freedom from being able to explore her creativity. She says, "Be your own voice. You have t

Lorraine Ladish embodies the ‘Ever Better’ state of mind! She uses her bi-cultural background, experience, and energy, to inspire people to embrace age with grace and vibrancy. She’s a self-described 21st-century communicator who founded Viva Fifty Media and the Viva Fifty! online community. A sought-after writer and brand ambassador, Lorraine who has written almost 20 books, including the moving story of her life experiences, Reach: From Single Mom on Welfare to Digital Entrepreneur. During this episode, Lorraine shares the touching story of how a dance studio kept her grounded during rough times, provided her proof that kindness has no boundaries, and opened the door to an opportunity that changed her life. Lorraine’s mantra of “It’s never too late,” is a reflection of her belief in a person’s ability to accomplish anything at any age. Work with me to Discover What’s Next for you. In my one-on-one coaching program, we work together to unearth your hidden talents, uncover opportunities, and start creating a

Steve Garguilo is a man who knows how to make things happen! In our discussion, he shares how he starts with an idea and then works towards getting it done. He’s developed what he calls “a bias for taking action” and now he’s helping other people do the same. You’ll also hear Steve share some of the ideas from his recently published book: Surge: Your Guide to Put Any Idea Into Action. Steve and his friends Matt Kane and Sergiy Skoryk collaborated on the book after creating an adult summer camp focused on making things happen, aptly named Action Camp. One of Steve's secrets to his success is staying connected to like-minded people who hold each other accountable for getting things done. Hearing him talk about organizing and giving TEDx talks, driving the Mongol Rally through Europe and Mongolia, starting Action Camp, and writing his book will make you start planning your “action list!” Are you thinking about taking action but having trouble getting started? Check out my Discover What's Next Coaching program

Nancy Stevens, is a Lifestyle, Health, and Wellness Coach who lives with her family in Nashville, TN. Nancy teaches a variety of fitness classes and is most drawn to the mind/body connection of yoga. She made the shift to life coaching after feeling drawn to provide more personal one-on-one guidance. During our conversation, Nancy shares what it means to be mindful, how to be successful at keeping up a self-care practice, and examples of client breakthroughs. She speaks with many people who feel numbed and removed from their personal needs. In our discussion, she offers self-care tips that she uses with her clients to help get their life back in balance. These include: Creating a signature color or style. Ask yourself, "What says 'this is me?' Craft a vision for your life Give yourself permission to do something good for you Ask yourself "What do I need that I'm not getting. What can I do to make a change? Stay hydrated Go to bed early Add your most important self-care activities to your calendar lik

Dr. Caren Cooper is passionate about involving people in the scientific process as citizen scientist. Growing up, she wanted to study wildlife and the environment. Her interests led her to earn a Ph.D., to fieldwork in Australia, and to a position at Cornell University’s Lab of Ornithology. She is currently Associate Professor of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University as well as Assistant Head, Biodiversity Research Lab, NC Museum of Natural Sciences.  During our discussion, Caren shares how residents of Flint, MI acted to have their water tested and their voices heard, and how Cape Cod residents took action when they noticed higher than normal breast cancer rates. Caren's recently released book, Citizen Science: How Ordinary People are Changing the Face of Discovery, details the history, process, and importance of how all people can work in conjunction with scientists, to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.  Caren says that “Citizen Science advances new know

How and why does someone start an adventure travel company? Diane Valenti joined me on the podcast to share her story. As a corporate consultant specializing in instructional design, Diane works with Fortune 500 companies. She loves to travel and jump into new projects. But it was a vacation with her father in Peru that truly activated Diane’s adventurous side! During that holiday, Diane “met a guy,” returned several times to visit, and was inspired to activate a different kind of travel company. She created Llama Expeditions to offer travelers an authentic experience in South America, and an opportunity to work with local non-profit organizations. Why llamas? They represent unconditional love and are a perfect symbol of her carefully planned tours that respect local cultures and follow the motto “It’s OK to leave a trace, just make sure it’s the right trace.” Diane’s philosophy on starting a business is: “It’s OK if you don’t know everything about the business you are starting. Just roll up your sleeves

Dr. Michael Lennox is a spiritual teacher, a psychologist, an astrologer, and a dream interpreter. His intimate understanding of the subconscious mind, and of our collective connection to the universe resonates through his dream interpretations. He believes in the power of using your voice and explains how he expresses gratitude, out loud, each morning. He says "Something spoken out loud is more powerful than something thought quietly in the mind." Michael is the author of three books, including The Complete Dictionary of Dreams and says that all of life is interpretable as a dream. His point is proven during our discussion when I select three symbols from the dictionary and he explains what they would mean in a dream. Although my selections were completely random, they told a highly relevant story! During our conversation, Michael shares how he became a dream interpreter. Hint: There is a line in Fiddler of the Roof: "Tell me what you dreamed, and I'll tell you what it meant." He shares the history of dream

This is part two of a conversation with Shannon Varley about her journey to find, purchase, and raise her family on the farm of her dreams. After the emotional ordeal of losing their home to a fire after carefully restoring it over two years, the Varleys wondered if it was time give up on farming. Shannon toyed with the idea of opening a bed & breakfast, but she knew in her heart she shouldn’t relinquish her dream. You don't have to listen to the first part to appreciate this episode, but if you'd like to hear Shannon's full story, check out Ever Better Episode 56.   Support from family and friends helped the Varleys to keep their animals, but the winter was difficult. Then, after a series of remarkable events, the family was able to bid on the farm Shannon and her family will never want to leave.  Their new home, "The Village Farm," is located in Stafford, Vermont, and Shannon says she's created a life that she never has to retire from. "It evolves and grows better."  Shannon shares her vision for her l

This is the story of Shannon Varley’s journey to raise healthy children, grow sustainable, organic food, and nourish the community. I am astounded by Shannon’s persistence and determination that led to her success in creating a wholesome, sustainable lifestyle. In our discussion, she opens up about all aspects of her heartwarming and heartbreaking journey. Her story begins in Ohio and moves through Maryland, West Virginia, and Vermont where she and her family are now settled. After many years of working towards owning her dream farm, Shannon seems to have finally achieved it. I’ve always thought of farmers as having been born into the business. I imagine families working farms over multiple generations. But Shannon grew up in Suburban Pittsburgh, the daughter of teachers. Her first venture into farming came after she graduated from Denison University, about 20 years ago. She didn’t have a firm plan for her next step after college so she and a friend decided to lease some land and leap into farming. After that

Cassie Parks is a writer, entrepreneur, podcast host, and coach who discusses how to manifest more money and the importance of rewarding yourself when you’ve been successful. She also discusses the power of getting to know your future self. Cassie was able to retire early from her corporate position by investing in real estate. She capitalized on her entrepreneurial spirit by writing books, manifesting good things into her life, and into the lives of her coaching clients. From her beautiful Denver apartment (view shown below), she hosts two podcasts: Manifest it Now and Happily Ever After. Cassie’s life motto is , “You are worthy of living the best story you can tell.”   Key Takeaways: [4:14] How Cassie became a writer, podcaster, and coach. [6:27] Cassie had a corporate job, but has always been an entrepreneur at heart. [9:44] Her coaching practice helps entrepreneurs welcome money into their lives. [11:15] Manifest $10,000 is a course that helps clients have fun with money. [18:32] 50 Days into the Manifes

  This episode looks into the power of persistence, and how it leads to greater impact. Don't let adverse conditions stop you from cultivating your skills and talents. Celebrate even a little bit of progress every day! Know that it takes continual effort and belief in your intentions to achieve significant accomplishments. In this podcast, I share examples of today's female icons contrasted with the amazing efforts of women from the 1800's whose steady work and scientific breakthroughs are largely unrecognized. Later in the podcast, we hear how Conner Vogt is continuing his musical progress that started with trumpet lessons at school, through creating beats.   Key Takeaways: [1:24] Remarkable Creatures tells the tale of persistence and consistency. [3:19] Looking more deeply into Tracy Chevalier's piece of historical fiction. [6:57] The Ever Better Podcast includes the theme of persistently and consistently building skills. [7:34] Tasia Valenza stepped away from the superficial and into the impactful. [8:41

Robert Sharpe is an inspiring and optimistic man who brings out the best in people. His live radio show, Bringing Inspiration to Earth is filled with inspirational triumphs from people who have overcome adversity. Robert has written two e-books, he interprets dreams, and works as a ghost writer. He reminds us that opportunity comes in many different forms, and to explore ideas to find hidden treasures lurking in the unfamiliar. If you are ready to make a life transition, but are not sure where to start, my Discover What’s Next Coaching Program can help you create a more fulfilling life.   Listen to my conversation to hear Robert discuss: Becoming self-aware Discovering opportunities that hold unseen gifts His first book, Joy Potential Recognizing opportunity to experience and create your own joy The part that positivity plays in your experiences Overcoming negativity His transition from the corporate banking world to the restaurant industry to becoming an author and host of Bite Radio - (Bring Inspira

This solo episode is about the importance of taking the first step, from Ever Better Podcast host, Lisa Conners Vogt. Do you ever go through this thought process? “I should try this. I might be good at it. But then again, I might be a total failure.” “It seems like this would be fun. I’ll meet new people who do interesting things. I’ll have a more interesting social life. But then again, maybe I won’t fit in. Maybe I’ll feel out of place.” “I’m sure I can figure out how to do that. My friends will be so proud!  They’ll say ‘Look what you’re doing! How awesome!’ But what if I try it and fail? They’ll laugh and say ‘I told you so.’“ “There are so many things to think about. What would I do first? This is way too complicated. I don’t know where to start. I’ll think about this again next week.” And so it goes. You put off, yet again, that project that deep down, really interests you and could change your life. Does any of that sound familiar? People go through this all the time when they’re thinking about startin

Wendy Baird is a singer, speaker, Reiki Master, Music Director, and  mother whose son is a gainfully employed college graduate! She is the President and Creative Director at Insight 180, a brand consulting and design company in Ellicott City, MD. For over fifteen years, Wendy and her team have helped organizations “that sell the invisible” discover what makes them different and bring those unique characteristics to life through creative brand strategy, messaging and visuals. Wendy has been through some major transitions in the past year. About six months ago, her office was destroyed by historic flooding in Ellicott City, MD.  For days, she wasn’t even allowed to enter the building and when she did, she found that almost everything had to be thrown away. But with some help from friends and the community, Wendy and her team persevered. And they are now creating plans for a new location and ways to show gratitude to everyone who rallied around her and other businesses in Ellicott City. Wendy shares the practic