I Always Wanted To

I want to let regular listeners know that I’m taking a break from creating new episodes of I Always Wanted To. I have plans to make additional “best of” compilations like the Learn To Sing and Travel episodes I released at the end of last year. I’m also going to share some other projects I’ve been working on that I think you’ll enjoy. I will stay in touch now and then but not on a regular schedule.   I had no idea when I started how much I would come to love podcasting. I love listening to people talk about their passion. I love learning about this relatively new and exciting field. I love all the techy bits of recording and editing. And I’m deeply touched by all the compliments I receive on my interview skills.   Thank you all for joining me on this adventure. If you’re new to I Always Wanted To I hope you’ll check out the back catalog.    Until we meet again, in the words of Martin Mull, "Let’s not say au revoir. Let’s just say hors d'oeuvres."   I’m Liz Sumner, reminding you to be bold, and thanks for listening. ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Allison’s interest in becoming a performing artist began when she joined FSU’s Flying High Circus in 2004 where she was able utilize her background in gymnastics training as well as other athletic sports. In 2007, she embarked on a professional career in the circus arts when she joined a 7-person flying trapeze act. Shortly after joining the troupe, Allison trained with the internationally recognized flying trapeze artist, Ivan Espana, and together developed a dynamic solo swinging trapeze act which utilizes the timing of the swing to accomplish several powerful release maneuvers creating an unbelievable and thrilling routine. Persistent in pursuing her passion, Allison continued to train several other aerial disciplines and is an accomplished aerialist on The Cyclone Cycle, Aerial Silks, Motorcycle on a High Wire and The Bungee Trapeze. Her performances have taken her across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Australia.   Allison has expanded her interests into not just performing but Producing. In 2014, Allison and her husband, Ivan Espana, co-founded Salto Entertainment, LLC. Together, Ivan and Allison produced several live shows including MOTO MANIACS®, MOTO PSYCHO CIRCUS®, FLIPPIN’ and The Great Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculairium and Drink-Ory Garden®.   Ivan and Allison are trailblazers of the live entertainment industry and believers in the importance of excitement, laughter and kindness which they aspire to spread through their innovative and original live productions. Here are some links of an act and shows. Video of my single trapeze act – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKuS5AaOTGM Video - Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4jTZoBSbEE Video – FLIPPIN - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIqywVZZZpU&t=15s Video – Moto Maniacs - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dpJpboIlCA Facebook Pages – Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium-https://www.facebook.com/Mr.SwindlesTravelingPeculiarium Facebook Page – Salto Entertainment - https://www.facebook.com/saltoentertainment Facebook – Moto Maniacs - https://www.facebook.com/Motomaniacstheshow Facebook – FLIPPIN - https://www.facebook.com/theflippinshow Company websites– Salto Entertainment, LLC - http://saltoent.com The Great Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium® - https://www.mrswindles.comFacebook - FLIPPIN - https://theflippinshow.com MOTO Maniacs® - https://moto-maniacs.com Specialty Tent Rentals - https://www.specialtytents.com REMARKS It’s hard to think about circus without memories of childhood . My mind goes to the Russian circus I saw when I was about 8 years old and watching Cecile B. DeMille’s The Greatest Show on Earth on TV.    I’ve seen a couple of Cirque du Soleil performances and love the direction that circus has taken since I was a child. I watch from afar and I’m amazed by the magical world being presented to me.   Possibly my favorite part of doing this podcast is meeting people who live in a world I know nothing about and hearing how they got there and what inspires them. Allison makes her living flying through the air and dreaming up productions with intriguing titles like The Great Mr Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium. Her husband and son ride a motorcycle up a tightrope toward her. Who wouldn’t want to know more about that? Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Josh Young is an athlete, leader, and follower of Jesus. He graduated from F&M with honors while playing two NCAA sports, D1 wrestling and football. Since then, Josh has worked in investment banking, non-profit, and helped run a successful political campaign.   Now, Josh is Chief of Staff at New Story, with a mission to pioneer solutions to end global homelessness. He declined acceptance to Harvard grad school to lead and love within his role at New Story.   New Story is one of the first non-profits to go through Y Combinator and has since built over 3,500 homes in Haiti, El Salvador, and Mexico. They led the construction of the world's first 3-D printed community. Their accolades include being listed four times as one of the World's Most Innovative Companies. Being featured in an Apple TV+ Documentary. And appearing on the front of the New York Times.   https://newstorycharity.org @newstorycharity on Instagram and Twitter   Videos Josh mentions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvM7jFZGAec   https://tv.apple.com/us/episode/mexico/umc.cmc.vw8qwc1j4ld8jr3itsc0b3wy?showId=umc.cmc.5xjrgoblr5l5i1ypamtayuhe9   REMARKS Hi everyone. I have to admit that I was a little skeptical before my conversation with Josh Young. I didn’t want to be naive and just accept some do-gooder’s hype about their non-profit at face value. But that didn’t last long after listening to Josh and learning the story of New Story Charity. I am impressed with their mission and their operation. It’s refreshing to hear about novel solutions being worked on by organizations that really want to make a difference in the world AND understand its realities. And it seems clear to me that New Story partners with local communities and gets buyin and doesn’t try to ride in on a white horse and say “we know best.” Josh was outdoors when we were talking so you’ll hear some environmental noise. I hope it’s not too distracting. Listen and see if you agree that New Story has an approach that makes you hopeful. I’d love to hear what you think. Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Jess Reid is a self-care keto coach, a certified life coach with the International Coaching Federation, and the founder of her own coaching practice, The Keto Fit. She’s passionate about helping women to lose weight with a keto diet and a self-care mindset, by providing both the concrete scientific strategies to lose weight and the mindset work that will help women change their beliefs surrounding weight, food, and body image, so that they can have life-long success with ease, peace, and joy. Jess lives in Virginia Beach with her husband of 16 years and her 5 year old daughter. When she’s not coaching, Jess loves walking, coffee, shopping, and binge-listening to podcasts. theketofit.com  facebook.com/theketofit instagram.com/theketofit linkedin.com/in/theketofit   Her podcast: Self-Care Keto anchor.fm/selfcareketo   Carb Manager app - https://www.carbmanager.com/   REMARKS My guest, Jess Reid, believes in and talks in detail about the keto diet plan. While I was not looking for a diet, and have a fair amount of resistance to them, she made it sound so intriguing that I’ve been following it myself for the month or so since we spoke.  More about that in a minute. But what I especially liked was Jess’s philosophy-- ideas like what works is focusing on how you want to feel rather than a number on a scale, and that change comes from self love not from judgment. That’s an approach I can get behind. I’ve had other guests who spoke about diet and weight loss. After listening to Jess you might also check out I Always Wanted To Change My Habits with Betsy Burroughs and I Always Wanted to Bike Across the Country with Leslie Kasanoff. Leslie is a nutritionist and committed vegan. She made some great points but I’m not ready to give up meat and dairy. Jess Reid’s description of keto and how it works is very compelling. My results have not been quite as astonishing but I think I know why and I’m going to stick with it for now. See if you feel as motivated as I did after listening to her story. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

In late 2017, with no previous experience in audio-making or storytelling, Lori Mortimer simply decided it would be a good idea to start a podcast. Then she learned how hard it was. "Since then, I've studied the art and craft of podcasting, audio editing, interviewing, nonfiction storytelling, sound design, and podcast marketing. Through more classes and workshops than I can count, and the support found in online and in-person audio communities, I've stitched together the basic set of skills needed to get a show off the ground. It's taken a village to get me to the point where I consider myself a creator and podcaster. It's been a life-changing and affirming experience for me, which I am thankful to have had the privilege of experiencing." https://mementospodcast.com/ Twitter & Instagram @mementospodcast    REMARKS I have met some wise, wonderful, and generous people in the podcasting space and today’s guest is a delightful example.   Regular listeners will notice how often the topic of a supportive community comes up in my conversations with guests. Just about everyone mentions that when they were ready to take a step toward their dream others were there to help them along the way.   Lori and I get together regularly to chat about our love of audio, our goals and frustrations, and share the highs and lows that only a fellow podcaster can appreciate.    Our shows have very different styles. I Always Wanted To is a straight interview while Lori’s podcast, Mementos, is a first-person narrative with rich sound design to set the scene.    We really like each other’s work and suspect that our listeners will as well,  so we decided to showcase one another. Lori created an episode about a keepsake of mine entitled Liz’s Nonni that talks about my move to Italy. The link is in the show notes. And I interviewed Lori to find out her backstory and how she became a podcaster. Here’s the interview.  Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Catherine is an audio storyteller with a background in art based in Oakland, CA, where they produce and host Material Feels, a podcast exploring the intimate relationship between artists and their materials. They began working with clay as a teen and considers the ceramics studio another version of home. They've worked as a fine art framer, gardener, ceramics instructor and art supply copywriter; their writing has been published in The New York Times, WIRED, The British Medical Journal, Leonardo Magazine and Art Dog, an art supply industry blog. CXM Productions -  http://www.cxmproductions.com/ MaterialFeelsPodcast.com REMARKS Hi everyone. Listening to Catherine Monahon talk about ceramics got me thinking about my own creative pursuits. Their world is tangible. The clay is gritty or buttery.  Catherine talks about the physical elements in it and the way you work it to make all the particles align. Listening to them describe the qualities of the material made me realize that I create in a much more abstract way.    Sound waves are of course physical but I don’t think of them that way. I do use my hands but most often on a keyboard or a mouse. I produce artifacts but they’re mostly digital. People who create with touchable materials must have a different experience when they create and I’m curious about it.    Catherine was a great bridge between the physical and the abstract because as a podcaster, and storyteller as well as a ceramicist they know how to speak of the solid and intangible in ways that I can understand and find fascinating. I hope you agree. Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Nicole Meier is a multi-published author and book coach living in the Pacific Northwest. Her debut novel, THE HOUSE OF BRADBURY, was chosen as a Best Book of 2016 by Refinery29. Her second book, THE GIRL MADE OF CLAY, was named a Top Book according to Bookbub readers. Her newest novel, THE SECOND CHANCE SUPPER CLUB, is out now.   Nicole has taught writing workshops in schools, libraries, wellness retreats, and writers' conferences. She currently works as a book coach for fiction writers, helping them bring their stories to life.   Her works have been published in The Oregonian, Cascade Journal, Southern Oregon Magazine, Women Writers Women’s Books, Brazen Woman, and more. Find her online at @nicolemeierwrites on Instagram. https://linktr.ee/nicolemeier https://www.skillshare.com/profile/Nicole-Meier/744480899 https://www.womensfictionwriters.org/ https://www.nicolemeierauthor.com/books ****************** REMARKS Hi Everyone. What do you like to read? Are you a fan of fiction? What kinds of stories grip you or transport you? Have you wanted to write your own? My guest, Nicole Meier, has published three novels and didn’t get started writing seriously until she turned 40.    In our conversation she talks about the self doubt that held her back at first and how she overcame it. She was helped along the way by a generous community of fellow writers.    That struck me in particular because I’ve been hearing that a lot from guests and seeing it myself. There are friendly and helpful colleagues in just about every field available to help newbies who are serious about learning. I’m emphasizing this point because I know I tend to default to thinking no one wants to answer my dumb question or that experienced person won’t have time for little old me. But I don’t think that’s the case anymore and holding on to that mistaken belief can really limit us.    As Nicole says, you need to do your homework and put in your effort but trust that you will find the mentors and resources you need to help you along the way. If writing fiction is your path, this episode could be one of them.   Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Nic Hyl (pronounced Nick Hill) is the founder and creative director of New York’s emerging and award winning swimwear, clothing and activewear brand, Nic Hyl Clothing. As a lover of travel, fitness, fashion and having previously worked in the fashion industry for brands including Norma Kamali and Ralph Lauren, Nic has taken her experience, love of fashion, Jamaican roots, and Florida upbringing to create a brand inspired by her love of quality fashion and a vacation inspired lifestyle.   After graduating with a BS in Psychology from The University of Central Florida, Nic changed her mind in career and pursued fashion design. Graduating with honors from The American Intercontinental University with a BFA in Fashion Design, and starting her apprenticeship in NYC with Norma Kamali a few short months later.   “It’s the beauty of fashion that I see on a daily basis on New York City streets coupled with my Florida roots, fashionable female role models in my family, and my Jamaican culture that has inspired me to create a swimwear and lifestyle brand, so that fashionable women can translate their personal style to the beach, pool or wherever their lives take them. My goal is to celebrate a wider definition of beauty for every body, everywhere; one uniquely beautiful garment at a time.” – Nic Hyl   As part of her commitment to creating quality garments, ending fast fashion and helping others, Nic has also created a program teaching other fashion designers and brand owners all of the secrets for product development, production and commercial garment manufacturing under her course program Nic Hyl Fashion University.  https://www.nichyl.com/ Instagram: @nichylclothing  YouTube:  https://bit.ly/2V4mzHr Nic Hyl Living Beautifully 30 Day Email Challenge www.yourelivingbeautifully.com Build Your Fashion Brand! www.nichylfashionuniversity.com Facebook:  www.facebook.com/NicHylClothing Email:   nic@nichyl.com  Twitter and Clubhouse: @nichyl   REMARKS Hi Everyone. Because this is audio I could pretend that I’m always dressed impeccably and everyone admires my flair for fashion. Italians would call me a bella figura.  Full disclosure, this is not the case. I care more for comfort than for style. So when I invited my guest, Nic Hyl, to talk about fashion design I was truly ignorant at the start, and absolutely fascinated to learn about the process. Nic has a combination of creativity, business savvy, and sensitivity to client’s needs that impressed me greatly. She recognized that while school could teach her the art of design she needed real world experience to take her designs to the masses. I really loved hearing her explain how a garment goes from idea in her head to the customer’s closet.  And the other element that really struck me in our conversation was how Nic Hyl Clothing recognizes the tender feelings women have about their bodies when they put on a bathing suit. I purposely shared this episode at this time of year when many of us are resolving to eat better and exercise more. Nic’s philosophy of helping women love themselves as they are in the skin they’re in is a breath of fresh air. I hope you agree. Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Heather Hansen O’Neill is an international speaker, author, adventurer, and entrepreneur using her action-packed experience to Fire Up audiences. She stimulates vibrant energy, focus, and action for those who want to collaborate effectively, lead change, and achieve massive results. As host of the From Fear to Fire podcast, 2x TEDx speaker, and behavioral change expert, Heather's research and programs help individuals and companies’ breakthrough fears, judgments, and blocks to break limiting generational patterns and reach sales and leadership success. http://heatherhansenoneill.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherhansenoneill/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtib3bk9yJ64theJ8dFX6EQ REMARKS Today’s guest, Heather Hansen O’Neill, has tried the kinds of activities that most of us only dream-- or maybe have nightmares about. Sky diving, rock climbing, -- public speaking. She makes it her business to help people overcome fear. Each of her experiences has taught her something about herself, and she leads programs to help others find their own insights.   I share her belief that opening yourself up to new adventures makes life richer, and that stretching yourself to go outside your comfort zone doesn’t have to a huge drastic step. One of the reasons I like living in Italy is that even the most mundane activities like going to the dentist or phoning the plumber can be major accomplishments when you only understand about ¾ of what’s being said to you.   What does being Adventurous mean to you? We’re not all meant to mainline adrenaline, but that secret desire you’ve wanted to try is easier than you think and achieving it will change your life.   Here’s the interview. Full transcript at http://ialwayswantedto.net ******************** Theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

In this year end episode I share some tips for creating New Year's Resolutions you'll actually keep, plus some alternative approaches from Dave Evans and Bill Burnett, authors of Designing Your Life.         TRANSCRIPT Hi everyone. I published these thoughts as an article a number of years ago, and I still believe them to be true. Here’s my take on New Year’s Resolutions that Work   What usually happens to your resolve in the New Year? Does it disappear before the pine needles are even vacuumed? Do you spend more energy on excuses than on execution? Can you even remember your intention by Valentine’s day? Try something different this year. Take some time to think through your plan before jumping into action. Here are some guidelines that can help. Your Downstream Self  Imagine a vital, successful, and grateful you five years in the future looking back and beaming with pride at your foresight. What are you grateful for? What seeds that you planted are now flourishing? What are you looking forward to this year? What are you glad you started five years ago? Year in Review Where have you been over the past year? Look at all aspects of your life–- work, recreation, friends and family, your environment. What made you happy? What successes can you build on? What were the qualities that made them successful? Brainstorm Now make a list of all the goals you can think of. Remember the rules of brainstorming — all ideas count, repetition is okay, no judgment, repetition is okay, keep going when you come to a lull. You can prime the pump with the old standbys — eat better, get more exercise, floss regularly, then add some wild ones — try skydiving, learn to tap dance. Go for at least 26. Who Cares   Take a look at the list and ask yourself which ones matter and to whom. Is it something you really care about or is there a big should attached to it? Whose voice is telling you it’s important? So That Now take only the goals you care about and structure them with a “so that” phrase — I will [blank] so that [blank]. This is a critical step. It’s the rationale that gives you motivation. I will eat better so that I have more energy. I will eat better so that I don’t have to take blood pressure medication. It also checks the appropriateness of the goal. Will doing this really give me that? I will eat better so that my partner will get off my case. What is your underlying rationale, and is it the ultimate one? I want to get a new job so that I can make more money? And then so what? I want to make more money so that I can feel good about myself. If you honestly identify the “so what” you can create goals that accomplish your actual purpose. Realistic and Measurable It’s a whole lot more inspiring to achieve a goal and set a new one then to fail again because you’ve set the bar too high. Don’t say you’ll get to the gym every day if you know that’s next to impossible. Start smaller — I’ll get to the gym three times a week for a month. I’ll walk in the door and get a locker. Every day for a month I’ll set aside time to do my daily journaling and I’ll reward myself if I do five days out of seven. Then keep track. Count them. Put a gold star on your calendar. Make a grid and put check marks. At the end of the time period stop and evaluate? If you’ve set realistic goals and measured them you’ll have a sense of accomplishment and valuable information about how to maintain your success or make any necessary adjustments to your plan. Don’t just put another paving stone on that road to hell. Turn those good intentions into accomplishments in the new year. On behalf of your downstream self we thank you. And a couple more thoughts before we close out this year.   The authors of Designing Your Life and Designing Your Work Life, Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, propose an alternative to New Year’s Resolutions. Their argument is that resolutions are a list of objectives, like a sales quota. They can quickly become “anchor problems” where there is only one form of a solution inside your problem statement and, when that particular solution isn’t forthcoming, you get stuck. Here’s what they say: Life is not a list of outcomes. Life is living, being alive. Alive means growing and learning and discovering and engaging. The best part of this new year is all that space and room in it to pursue interesting questions and discover ideas, people, and possibilities you knew nothing about on New Year’s Eve. That’s where the thriving is to be found. What if you swapped your resolutions list for a list of questions that you’re curious about? Like these: Why am I so attracted to the phrase “Think Global—Act Local” and what are different ways I could actually do that at work? How did those two superstar managers at work get to be such amazing mentors? What do they know and do that I could try this year? How could I experiment with different productivity apps to find one that fits me well enough that I might even use it regularly? Why is everyone at work so jazzed about the new morning meditating sessions anyway? What might be in it for me? So maybe this year try a New Year’s Curiosity List along with your resolutions. And don’t forget to add a couple of things you’ve always wanted to try. For more information about Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans visit their website. The link is in the show notes, along with some year end review templates from mentors I admire. I’ll see you in January with brand new episodes. I’m Liz Sumner, wishing you a new year filled with inspiration and encouragement, and thanks for listening. ********************* Year-end Review Templates from Mentors I Admire Catherine Lavery - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL4yaTdj2T4 David Allen - https://gettingthingsdone.com/2018/01/16386/ ********************* New theme song written by Michael Cohen https://michaelcohenmusic.com and performed by Complicated People https://complicatedpeople.com Additional music by Michael Cohen ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.  

When I ask people what they’ve always wanted to do, a frequent response is travel. They want to go places they’ve never been and experience the cultures they’ve only read about or seen on the screen.   My episodes related to travel are some of my most popular. Over the years I’ve approached the topic from several angles and I’ve gathered some excerpts here to give you a sample.    My guests Jennifer Sumner and Barbara Castleton are seasoned travelers who share their experience and advice. Susanne Uhl Vening introduced me to Couch Surfing.com, a social network that can be a wonderful resource for people who want to connect with locals when they’re visiting a new area. Charles Mitchell is an experienced artist and teacher who leads painting holidays all over Italy. And Sarah Tarvin speaks 8 languages and is working on 4 more. She offers advice for people who want to go beyond English when they visit the world.   While many people dream of traveling the globe, one of the things that holds them back is the idea of traveling alone. Maybe they’re single or their partners aren’t interested. Many of my guests offer resources that can help the solo traveler.   One thing that ties the different episodes together is that all of my guests make the point that  people are friendly. Locals in the foreign countries want to help you and get to know you. And friendships happen easily in focused tour groups. Full transcript at ialwayswantedto.net This episode includes excerpts from the following shows: I Always Wanted To Travel the World On My Own https://ialwayswantedto.net/podcast/travel-the-world-on-my-own/ I Always Wanted To Try Couch Surfing https://ialwayswantedto.net/podcast/try-couch-surfing/ I Always Wanted To Learn Another Language https://ialwayswantedto.net/podcast/learn-another-language/ I Always Wanted To Travel and Paint https://ialwayswantedto.net/podcast/travel-and-paint/ ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.    

In late 2017, with no previous experience in audio-making or storytelling, Lori Mortimer simply decided it would be a good idea to start a podcast. Then she learned how hard it was. "Since then, I've studied the art and craft of podcasting, audio editing, interviewing, nonfiction storytelling, sound design, and podcast marketing. Through more classes and workshops than I can count, and the support found in online and in-person audio communities, I've stitched together the basic set of skills needed to get a show off the ground. It's taken a village to get me to the point where I consider myself a creator and podcaster. It's been a life-changing and affirming experience for me, which I am thankful to have had the privilege of experiencing." https://mementospodcast.com/ Twitter & Instagram @mementospodcast    Lori Mentions http://www.arianamartinezstudio.com/ http://www.alexlaughs.net/ TRANSCRIPT Lori Mortimer   One thing I would change overall, if I could go back in time is that I would have made more time for this side of myself when I was younger, I think no. Liz Sumner   I'm Liz Sumner. And this is I always wanted to the podcast where I interview people who are doing things that others longed to do. What have you always wanted to try? Liz Sumner   Hi, everyone. In the three and a half years, I've been making podcasts. I've learned a lot about the industry and met some wonderful colleagues. One of my favorites is my guest, Lori Mortimer and her show Mementos. Lori and I have different approaches to podcasting, but we suspect our audiences have similar taste. We interviewed each other in our own styles to introduce one another to our listeners. I'm making this bonus episode to recommend Lori to you, and to tell newcomers about I Always Wanted To. In my podcast, I highlight regular people who've taken bold steps and tried something new. My intention is to encourage others that their dreams are within their reach. A recurring theme that I love to hear is how my guests discover that they're more creative and courageous than they ever realized. And Laurie is a perfect example. I'll be releasing the full version of my conversation with Lori at the end of January. But this will give you a little taste of what I always wanted to is all about. I hope you enjoy it. Here are some excerpts from our interview.  Liz Sumner   My guest today is Lori Mortimer. Lori is the creator of Mementos, a beautifully produced podcast about the emotional backstories to the objects we keep. Lori and I've been getting together to talk about podcasting, what we love and hate about the process. We really liked each other's shows. And I think we have some crossover audience. So we decided to showcase each other and our own styles. Welcome, Lori. Lori Mortimer   thank you glad to be here. Liz Sumner   We have a very different style in how we build it and what they sound like so so tell me some of the choices that you made to to make Mementos sound the way it does? Lori Mortimer   That's a great question. This is another kind of result of the community of people, you know, like the Work It trip where you know, had a small community in the car, but they're all from the Boston area audio community, I attended an event at the Podcast Garage. That was sort of like a speed dating event. They had mentors from the field, who were all like, lined up in a, like a snake-shaped set of chairs, and they lined up chairs across from them. And we just, and those of us who were makers and who wanted to talk to people from the industry about our ideas came and we started in a chair. And you had I think we had three minutes with each person. And you literally talked to every single one of those mentors over the course of I don't know, two hours. And one of the mentors who was there was Ariana Martinez. And their feedback was that they like the concept and all that, but their feedback was "think more art than journalism." Liz Sumner   Ooh, nice.  Lori Mortimer   Yeah. That that. never forgotten that.  Liz Sumner   That's, that's it.  That's the difference. Well said. Lori Mortimer   Yes, exactly. That one sentence has stuck with me. And so I was like, Ah, okay, I get it. And that helped me see that it wasn't going to be like an interview show. Right? It was going to be a storytelling show. Somebody tell me a story about this object and what it means to you. And so that kind of influenced the style of show. And then over the last couple of years, I've really tried to develop an ear for sound design on top of that, you know, and try to make the sound of the show kind of enhance what the person is telling us about this object. Then, last fall of 2020, I had an opportunity to have a one on one consultation with Alex Sujong Laughlin. She was doing a she was doing a fundraiser. And she and I met, it was the Monday or Tuesday of Thanksgiving week. So before Thanksgiving, we had a 30 minute conversation, she listened to the two episodes that I had out. And what I wanted at the time was to just get some feedback on how it was going and I knew I wanted to keep moving forward. And Alex is somebody who works in the field and she had been an instructor and one of the classes one of the many classes I took she had been an instructor on. We had our conversation and one of the first thing she said on the call was, you know, I was trying to figure out where you worked. And you don't work in audio, do you? And I was like, No, I worked for a textbook publisher. And she's like, I listened to your episodes. And I had no idea that you weren't already a producer, I thought you were a producer. And this was your side project. And when she said that, I just still I'm getting goosebumps now even thinking about it. Like when she said that, I thought, Oh, my God, I tricked her. You know, like, she didn't know that I was a complete noob for those two episodes. And that just gave me this huge burst of confidence on that call of like, oh, I can't really do this, right. And so we, we talked for the rest of the half hour about the show and some ideas, but she said she loved it. You know, she loved the show. And she was looking forward to more episodes and all of that. And I literally clicked off of that Zoom call, and went upstairs to my husband's home office. And I was like, We need to talk right now. And I was just so excited. And I said, I think I think I need to leave my job, so that I can focus on this podcast next year. And you know, we talked about it over the holiday week and stuff. And he agreed, like, Yeah, let's try that. Because she just gave me that extra boost. To think that if I just had the time, if I just had the time I can make this work. Liz Sumner   In our full conversation, we talked about the value of a professional community, and the training and inspiration that Lori received. I asked her what, if anything, she would have done differently when she was starting out. Lori Mortimer   One thing I would change overall, if I could go back in time is that I would have made more time for the side of myself when I was younger, like I never thought of myself as a creative person. ever really, you know, like I've, you know, been around very creative people, including my husband, my whole life and didn't see myself that way at all. And the podcast has allowed me to see myself as a creative person in a, you know, at all, and to see myself in a very different light. And I think that current Lori would say to younger, Lori, nurture that side of yourself some give yourself some space to play around with things and try things and dedicate some time to that for yourself. That's the thing, I think, I won't say I've wasted years or anything like that. But I it's certainly a missed opportunity to have been more involved in creative things that, you know, could have brought me joy, you know, and pleasure the way that this is doing so, and also to just know myself a little bit differently. So yeah, Liz Sumner   My thanks to Lori Mortimer. You can find out more about her and Mementos in the show notes. If you like what you hear, please visit ialwayswantedto.net or look on your favorite podcast app to see all my previous episodes. There'll be new ones coming in the beginning of the year. I invite everyone to write and tell me what you've always wanted to try. I'm Liz Sumner, reminding you to be bold, and thanks for listening ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

This episode is a compilation of my favorite excerpts from my most popular podcasts-- the series on Learning To Sing. In putting this together I see the same themes expressed by each of my guests. Singing is joyful and expresses who we are. That vulnerability can be frightening and easily trampled. But there are excellent teachers available to help us get over our fears and rediscover the joy.   In part one, Nancy Salwen talks about her debilitating stagefright and how that led her to create the Fear of Singing Breakthrough Program. In part two, Judy Fine talks more about overcoming performance anxiety, and giving yourself permission-- to be where you are, to not be perfect instantly.  She also makes a great case for singers learning music theory both for the musical reasons and also for the additional confidence it gives us when working with other musicians.   Then we finish with a mini jazz master class from Isabella Celentano on improvising on the blues using the pentatonic scale. I thought this was magical when I took a class with her a couple of summers ago. She explains that there are 5 notes that fit in each of the 3 chords in a 12-bar blues. You can sing any of them and they will be in tune. This is part of that singers learning music theory. When you know these 5 notes you can improvise on any blues in any key. Magic.   Lastly I feel I must mention that these episodes are from early in the podcast and I’ve learned a lot about recording since then. I apologize for the funkiness of the sound. The original episodes were released May 21, 2018, January 28th 2019, and November 18th 2019. If you like the content in this compilation I hope you’ll listen to the originals to learn more about my wonderful guests. Here are their bios: Nancy Salwen teaches singing to “non-singers,” beginners and anyone who wants to sing more comfortably and expressively. She is the author of the book (and online program), “The Fear of Singing Breakthrough Program: Learn to Sing Even if You Think You Can’t Carry a Tune!” She leads singing workshops in Vermont, New York City and California, offers online programs, and teaches lessons in-person and over Skype (or FaceTime). To learn more about Nancy and what she has to offer, visit www.fearofsinging.com, or email her at nancy@salwen.net.   With a Master of Music in Composition and a penchant for encouraging others to follow their passion, Judy Fine has been teaching and performing popular music styles for two decades, as a singer, keyboardist and sometimes trombonist. Over the years, she has performed in a variety of musical projects, from an original solo act to groups as big as a ten-piece wedding band. Formerly the owner of the Singers and Musicians Studio, a performance-based pop music school in Keene, NH, Judy now coaches aspiring singers in the Cape Coral, FL area and runs Online with Judy Fine, an online teaching and advice resource for singers. Website:   www.OnlineWithJudyFine.com Facebook:  @OnlineWithJudyFine (Judy Fine Vocal Coach) Instagram: @OnlineJudyFine YouTube: @OnlineJudyFine   Isabella Celentano teaches singing at Civica Scuola di Musica Paolo Soprani in Castelfidardo, and Zona Musica and Cantieri Musicale in Ancona, Italy.  Isabella sings regularly with the Reunion Jazz Band among others. She is the vocal maestra for Fabrijazz, a weeklong summer program for singers and musicians of all ages, presented by Fabrianopromusica.it. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Liz wraps up Season 8 and talk about what's upcoming over the next few months.              I love hearing listener feedback. Here’s a sample from the recent series. The underwater explorer? I loved her. I bought her book. The cave diver? Aaack - it makes me claustrophobic. I totally understand Dr. Leslie’s love of self-contained solo riding. Oh come on, there’s nothing wrong with e-bikes. You were not all in agreement and that’s just fine. I want to hear what you think whatever it is. I was particularly moved by your response to Patrisha McLean’s account of leaving an abusive relationship. I have received multiple messages of thanks for sharing her story. I am honored to amplify the important work and achievements of my courageous and talented guests. So now Series 8 is complete. Over the next couple of months I’ll be preparing the next season and sharing a few bonus episodes and best of compilations. I’ll have new interviews for you in the beginning of the year.  Coming up in future episodes we’ll be talking about pots - both making and smoking. Many of you have listed jumping out of an airplane at the top of your bucket lists. We’ll explore that and lots of other intriguing ideas and lifelong dreams. If this is your first time listening to I Always Wanted To welcome. Please check out my previous episodes. If you don’t see one of your dreams there I want to hear about it so I can remedy the situation. If you’re a regular listener thank you for your continued support. I hope you’ve filled out the 5-question survey mentioned in the show notes and shared the link with your friends. If you can’t get enough you might be interested in the bonus episodes available at Patreon.com/always wanted  I’d love to hear what you’ve always wanted to try. Please email me or message me on social media. I’m Liz Sumner, reminding you to be bold, and thanks for listening. ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Patrisha McLean is a photojournalist whose life was upended in 2016 when her husband of 29 years was arrested for domestic violence. The arrest set her free, and on a course of activism around women’s rights.  In 2019 she started the non-profit organization and movement breaking the silence of domestic abuse Finding Our Voices, which is at FindingOurVoices.net. She has a podcast and radio show of conversations with survivors and for 2021 was named one of 21 leaders for the 21st century by Women’s eNews.    Also, since leaving my ex,  I am doing everything I always wanted to do. "Scuba diving" is one thing, but the biggest thing is probably "making a difference in the world".    Patrisha’s Journey Our Voices in Biddeford https://www.facebook.com/breakthesilenceofdomesticabuse/ https://www.instagram.com/finding.our.voices/ https://twitter.com/patrishamclean   Resources Patrisha Mentions   FindingOurVoices.net   Power and Control Wheel https://findingourvoices.net/projects/#powerwheels ********************* Remarks I’ve heard from some of you that you listen for the uplifting and positive stories that my guests often tell. Well today’s topic is a lot more serious than my usual subjects. But while we get into some very dark territory, Patrisha’s story shines light on behavior that’s often not talked about and is especially inspiring because of how she turned her harrowing experience into a way of helping others. In preparing for this episode, one article I read says that one in every four women and girls worldwide has experienced domestic abuse. I am fortunate that I am not one of them, though I will say that after listening to Patrisha, that there’s a lot of what she describes that’s frighteningly familiar. I have certainly struggled with low self esteem and because of that I’ve tolerated the intolerable.  But not for 29 years. I wanted to understand what makes a person remain in a relationship when she’s being mistreated. To make sense of the statement “He wouldn’t let me.” Patrisha’s deeply vulnerable and open account helped me comprehend the mechanisms that led her to enter and stay in an abusive relationship, for many years. And how she was finally able to free herself and turn her life around. I chose not to include all of the examples she shared. There were a lot and it was pretty awful.  I left in enough so that people can recognize a variety of behaviors that are not acceptable and also resources that will help you take next steps if you’re a victim or a friend.   I’m deeply grateful to Patrisha McLean for talking with me, and for all of the people doing work to help victims of domestic violence, in particular to Susan Scrupski of Glorious Alone Productions who made the introduction. Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at http://ialwayswantedto.net ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Listen on your favorite app - http://pod.link/alwayswanted Support I Always Wanted To on Patreon - http://patreon.com/alwayswanted Leave a review on Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/i-always-wanted-to-670674 Thanks for listening.

Dr. Leslie Kasanoff has spent her life in healthcare, including 25 years as a holistic chiropractor on the Central Coast of California  and 10 years before that as a medical laboratory scientist. Recently, Dr. Leslie has been combining her science knowledge and her holistic & nutritional expertise in health coaching and consulting. She works with women who want to lose weight, address hormone issues, and resolve or reverse chronic health issues, not just treat them, using food and lifestyle as medicine. https://www.drlesliek.com/ https://www.facebook.com/leslie.kasanoff https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlesliekasanoff/ https://twitter.com/DrLeslieK https://www.instagram.com/dr.lesliek/ Resources Leslie mentions: https://www.warmshowers.org/ https://www.adventurecycling.org/ ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Remarks Today’s guest, Leslie Kasanoff, started biking long distance as a young woman. Then she put it aside as she raised her family, and didn’t take it up again until she semi-retired. So while she wasn’t a complete novice, she was starting over. One of the things that impresses me the most about her story is her comfort with solo travel. I think that’s something that becomes a necessary option for women my age. Some of us are single or have partners that don’t have the same desire to see the world. Being happy with our own company is essential. Personally I have not had an active lifestyle. I greatly admire my guests like sprinter Madonna Hanna and biker Leslie Kasanoff but I’m not there yet. I am well aware of the things I need to be doing to feel fit and healthy as I age. I do some of them. Today’s guest gave me some very convincing reasons to consider modifying my diet. And despite her distaste for ebikes that’s an option I’m considering. I’m curious what you take away from her approach to wellness. Let me know what you think after you’ve listened. Here’s the interview. Full transcript at ialwayswantedto.net

Dorit Chrysler has been dubbed a superior wizard of the theremin. An Austrian-born, New York-based composer, producer, and singer Chrysler is the co-founder of the New York Theremin Society and founder of the first school for theremin.  As much as the theremin is a tool in Chrysler’s electronic instrument arsenal she's also one of the most visible thereminists spreading the gospel of this mysterious sounding instrument which is basically played by massaging thin air. Her music has been described by Ann Magnuson in Paper Magazin, “Imagine if Marianne Faithfull and Nikola Tesla had a love child with Jane Birkin as the nanny and Bjork as the wayward Girl Scout Leader!”  Arte TV calls Dorit “Theremin Goddess” Wall Street Journal  “A futuristic Lotte Lenya“   DoritChrysler.comhttps://www.facebook.com/doritchryslerofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/doritchrysler/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=WKmMRtuLfCc&list=UU2FnHcTW8yYhKX8WGQcKEsA&index=1 Resources Dorit mentions: New York Theremin Society - https://www.nythereminsociety.org/ Dorit at CERN Hadron Collider for 100th anniversary https://www.moogmusic.com/media/electric-storm-100-years-theremin The Theremin 100 - https://www.nythereminsociety.org/theremin-100-4 THEREMIN GOES BROADWAY I am happy to have contributed theremin for “FallingInLoveWithMr.Dellamort” a “mysterious new audio musical” by Jack Feldstein and Paul Doust with a tony-nominated cast -  released on Broadway Records and making a splash on Playbill https://www.playbill.com/article/falling-in-love-with-mr-dellamort-recording-with-james-monroe-iglehart-courtney-reed-telly-leung-released-july-23?fbclid=IwAR32wprk1L2NDb66_Lr0oz4BcDnhAVpE2Nqlx5-mQkg10AVCx2Hr1wZ0dkA In the podcast I used snippets from The Dark Shadows theme by Bob Cobert, Good Vibrations by the Beach Boys, and Clara Rockmore performing The Swan. ********************* Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey. Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Remarks I’ve been fascinated by the theremin since 1966 when I used to watch Dark Shadows every day after school. Then of course the iconic sound of the instrument in Good Vibrations took the theremin out of the scary movie realm and into popular music. In 1993 we saw Theremin: An Electronic Odyssey in the theater and I learned more about the instrument’s origin as the first electronic instrument invented in 1920. That’s also where I learned of the amazing Clara Rockmore, Theremin’s first virtuoso performer.  The idea of shaping sound in thin air with your hands intrigues me so much. I’ve never been patient enough to learn an instrument but I’m drawn to weirdness of a theremin.  My guest, Dorit Chrysler, is a virtuoso herself and a teacher. She’s been playing for 20 years, and warns us that the theremin is difficult to learn. A lot of people start then give up. In our conversation Dorit describes her teaching approach and how to avoid some of the pitfalls that frustrate people so that they lose interest. I kicked myself a few years when I missed an opportunity to take a class with her locally.. I learned about it too late. I sincerely hope I’ll get another chance. Here’s the interview. Full transcript available at ialwayswantedto.net

Scott Ruston is a Research Professor with Arizona State University’s Global Security Initiative, a university-wide interdisciplinary hub for researching complex challenges in the global security arena. He directs the Center on Narrative, Disinformation & Strategic Influence, leading research teams that combine humanities, social science and computer science in order to better understand manipulations of the information environment and develop technologies to identify malign influence activities. Also a member of ASU’s Center for Strategic Communication, Professor Ruston’s research focuses on the socio-cultural dimensions of the information domain. He has applied his expertise in narrative theory and media studies to a variety of counter violent extremism and counter violent extremist ideology research contexts, including: analysis of extremist narratives; strategies for counter or alternative narratives; and the neurobiology of narrative comprehension. He is co-author of Narrative Landmines: Rumors, Islamist Extremism and the Struggle for Strategic Influence (Rutgers University Press, 2012), as well as articles on strategic communication, extremist videos and the narrative potential of new media technologies.  He has presented widely on topics intersecting disinformation and propaganda, media, narrative/counter-narrative and terrorism to military, academic and non-governmental organization audiences.  Current research projects focus on analysis of propaganda and information operations in so-called Gray Zone operations, as well as narrative-based interventions influencing attitude, belief and behavior in organizational culture. Narrative Disinformation and Strategic Influence section of the ASU Global Security Initiative website ********************* I want to get to know you better. Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey.  Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Remarks You hear the expression a lot about “controlling the narrative.” For me I hear it mostly on fictional tv shows, where some character has to make sure that reporters tell the story about that character in a way that’s most advantageous to him. He and his handlers frame any details in such a way that the character is presented as a good guy or has been unjustly accused. I didn’t really think about the mechanics of it all until my conversation with this week’s guest, Scott Ruston. I invited Scott on the podcast because there is so much controversy in what he calls our information environment. I wanted to understand how others can believe what seems to me to be so patently false. What has gotten us to this place and what can we do about it. Scott Ruston is an expert in the field of narrative disinformation, and teaches and researches it at the university level. As such, our conversation gets pretty theoretical and cerebral. One of many things I admired in his explanation is how neutral he stays as he describes what’s going on. The rhetorical devices are used by all sides, and thoughtful people from all points of view can learn from him without feeling judged. My hope is that you will take away a new awareness of the the techniques at work and what you can do to counter them.  Full transcript available at ialwayswantedto.net

Madonna Boclair Hanna  had a successful career in the fashion industry at the corporate level. She retired  as an award winning fashion marketing educator. Presently,  is a motivational speaker, freelance writer,  actress, amateur competitive athlete and she presently writes a monthly article for the Senior Scene publication chronicling her journey to the 2022 National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Madonna was selected as the January 2020 National Senior Games Association Athlete of the Month. Follow Madonna’s progress on Facebook @madonnabhanna or Instagram@madonnafitfastandfabulous. Website: Dropkickthedrama.com. You may contact Madonna for speaking engagements at contactmadonna@dropkickthedrama.com Article about Madonna and her coach Video of Madonna's recent wins at the Washington State Senior Games is available at ialwayswantedto.net ********************* I want to get to know you better. Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey.  Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Opening Remarks My guest, Madonna Hanna, is a perfect example of why I created this podcast. She felt a desire to do something at a very young age and even though many years passed she never let go of the dream. Now some of us who have put things off until later in life off have to make some adjustments.  I’m not going to be a ballerina at this point but I could take a dance class. We can get a version of what we always wanted but maybe not the exact thing we imagined when we were small. That’s not the case with Madonna, and she has the medals to prove it. She didn’t let injury stop her, or the death of her beloved coach. She is serious about sprinting but you can tell from our laughter that she is enjoying her life. There are some problems early on with her microphone. I apologize, and hope you agree that her spirit and her stories make it not that noticeable. For all of us who watch the Olympics and imagine being a champion athlete, I hope you enjoy this interview. Full transcript available at https://ialwayswantedto.net

My guest, Mark Radel,  describes himself this way: I have always been around music.  I sang in the church choir, school choirs, acted in musicals in high school, was into music but never took up an instrument.  After my wife and I moved to Seattle my commute was 30 minutes and I was bored driving back and forth each day.  I thought about what I could do and saw a book named "harmonica playing for dummies", with it came a cheap C major harp and a cassette.  So each daly as I drove to and from work I practiced playing.  When we moved back to Bellingham, WA, I got serious and started playing with others.  Now I can sheepishly say I am a musician. Artists Mark mentions that he listens to: Kevin Moore, Taj Mahal Eric Clapton, Tracy Chapman, Jerry Portnoy, and Harry Manx. ********************* I want to get to know you better. Please fill out a 5-question survey at lizsumner.com/survey.  Let me know when you're done and I'll send you a coupon code for my online course, 8 Steps to Launch Your Dream Life. (launchyourdreamlife.com) ********************* Opening Remarks Today’s guest is a dear friend that I’ve known half my life. Before we moved away many years ago Mark was a fan of our music, my husband Michael’s and mine-- that’s that Cohen music I mention later on. Mark would often come see us perform, but he never played.  It is such a pleasure in this interview to hear about his transformation as a harp player and acceptance of himself as a musician. This is what is possible when we try something we’ve always wanted to do. The story of Mark’s journey is exactly what I was thinking about when I started this podcast. One of the things that’s most interesting about Mark’s process is that he started with improvisation. He didn’t learn melodies or how to read music, but instead he plays by ear and instinctively. I think that’s unusual and kind of courageous. Plus he is fortunate to have good friends to play with and challenge him. And I miss them all very much. I should mention that during our conversation I use some shorthand and don’t explain everything because we know each other so well. Also during the interview Mark is fiddling with his harmonicas and you can hear them rattling a bit. It was a joy to reconnect with my friend and I look forward to joining in on one of the music nights he mentions in the near future. Full transcript available at https://ialwayswantedto.net