Crafting A Meaningful Life With Mary Crafts-homer

In this compelling episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Rachel Miner, the visionary founder of Bellwether International. The conversation delves into Rachel's extraordinary journey from studying studio art at BYU to founding a non-profit focused on ending genocide. Rachel shares how her passion for changing the world through policy led her to explore economics alongside human rights, making significant strides in preventing identity-based violence on a global scale. Rachel Miner discusses the distressing yet hopeful aspects of tackling genocide. She emphasizes the predictable patterns of genocide and how an economic approach can offer innovative solutions. With firsthand experiences from meeting survivors of atrocities worldwide, Rachel shares the resilience and hope she witnesses even among those who have experienced the worst human rights violations. In a call to action, she urges listeners to harness their time, talents, and financial resources to join the fight against global

In this heartfelt episode, Mary Crafts reflects on her journey as she approaches the end of an era with her podcasting career. Drawing from eight years of sharing and learning, Mary discusses the significance of gratitude and giving, notably during the Thanksgiving season. She shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from films like "The Wizard of Oz" and transformative life experiences that shaped her understanding of giving and gratitude. Mary invites listeners to find purpose and meaning through service, encouraging a shift from self-centeredness to selflessness by highlighting the importance of becoming a do-gooder. Gratitude and giving are central themes in this episode, with Mary emphasizing their roles in personal transformation and growth. She weaves in personal narratives, including insights from her marriage, professional life, and philanthropic endeavors in places like Kenya, to illustrate the profound impact of these practices. Moreover, Mary challenges the notion of waiting for certain life

In this insightful episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts engages in a compelling conversation with Sandy Rosenthal, a formidable force in bringing engineering accountability for the Hurricane Katrina disaster. Sandy shares her journey from being a concerned New Orleans resident to becoming the leading voice uncovering the truth behind the failed levees. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice and transparency, epitomized by her organization, Levees.org, and her book, "Words Whispered in Water." The episode delves deeply into the factors that drove Sandy to challenge the misleading narratives post-Katrina and how her efforts catalyzed significant changes in federal levee design policies. Sandy discusses overcoming fears and criticisms, the importance of knowing the right questions rather than having all the answers, and the power of community and expert support in driving systemic change. Her tale is not just one of personal achievement, but an in

In this enlightening episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts engages in a profound conversation with visionary leader Jeff Burningham. With over 200 successful startup investments in the burgeoning tech scene of Utah, Jeff brings a wealth of experience and insight into the challenges and opportunities in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Together, Mary and Jeff explore the deep themes of crafting a meaningful life, conscious decision-making, and the significance of pausing and reflecting at the height of professional success. Jeff introduces his latest work, "The Last Book Written by a Human," a compelling narrative on humanity's evolving relationship with AI. As AI emerges as both a challenge and an enabler for human transformation, Jeff underscores its role as a "cosmic mirror" reflecting back to us our societal values and prompting a return to intrinsic human qualities. Highlighting the themes of love, unity, and wisdom, he argues for a repositioning away from mere progress for

In this heartfelt episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," Mary Crafts engages in a profound conversation with Emilie Starr, host of the uplifting TV show "Random Acts." The discussion centers around the importance of building authentic community connections and the transformative power of kindness. Mary and Emilie explore how these elements can elevate personal and collective happiness and well-being. The episode kicks off with Mary's insights into forming meaningful connections and transitions into a thoughtful examination of how random acts of kindness can create ripples of positive change in society. Throughout the episode, Mary and Emilie navigate themes of belonging, social media's impact on community, and kindness as a pivotal part of achieving societal oneness. Emilie shares exceptional stories from her show that highlight the profound effects of community and service, encouraging listeners to realize the innate human desire to connect and contribute. Key phrases such as "community building," "kindnes

In this invigorating episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts engages in a heartfelt conversation with the remarkable Izabela Hamilton. Izabela shares her journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in communist Romania to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the United States. Her story is one of perseverance, highlighting the importance of embracing opportunities and cultivating trust both in personal and professional life. Mary and Izabela dive into the realities of overcoming obstacles that seem insurmountable. Izabela paints a vivid picture of her formative years spent dreaming of a better life in America, encapsulating the hope and freedom the country represents to many immigrants. Her eventual journey to the States through an au pair program marked the beginning of her transformation. The pair also discuss Izabela's role as an influencer, where she plays a key part in guiding consumer trust and recommending quality products through her Amazon ventures. About the Guest: Izabela Hamilton

In this enlightening episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts engages in an inspiring dialogue with Vicki Gold, an 80-year-old renowned for her work in physical therapy and holistic health. As both women exuberantly compare their ages and life experiences, Vicki shares transformative insights and methods for aging gracefully and powerfully. Through her teachings, Vicki has empowered many to integrate mind-body systems into their daily lives, creating a pathway to healthier, more meaningful aging. Mary and Vicki delve into the building blocks of Vicki’s work, namely the ABC mind-body system, which emphasizes the importance of Alignment, Breathing, and Centering. Vicki explores how the psychological and physical aspects of health are interconnected and vital to personal development. Drawing on vivid anecdotes from her career, she underscores the power of mindset in overcoming physical adversities. Listeners will discover actionable tips for improving posture, breathing, and mindset to foster re

In this compelling episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Amber Washington, a powerful and resilient advocate for childhood sexual abuse survivors. Throughout the episode, they discuss the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma, the importance of embracing healing, and shifting cultural narratives around abuse. Amber bravely shares her personal journey from a survivor of sexual abuse by her grandfather to becoming an outspoken advocate for change. The episode serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for cultural change, as Amber and Mary discuss both the painful memories and the healing process that unfolds with courage and support. Amber Washington's story is a testament to the strength and resilience required to overcome adversity. Her life has been marked by challenges, from the aftermath of childhood abuse to facing societal pressures and personal setbacks. Yet, through therapy, self-discovery, and determination, she has emerged as a light for others, advocating for tra

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