The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast: Episode 1KHO 507 - "When It Feels Like Nothing’s Working | Dr. Heather Thompson Day, What If I'm Wrong?"

Release Date: June 20, 2025
Host: Jenny Urch
Guest: Dr. Heather Thompson Day
Book Discussed: "What If I'm Wrong?"

Introduction

In the premiere episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Jenny Urch welcomes Dr. Heather Thompson Day, a bestselling author from the That Sounds Fun Network. The conversation delves deep into Dr. Heather's latest book, "What If I'm Wrong?", exploring themes of faith, resilience, and the profound impacts of perceived failures.

Dr. Heather’s Journey and "What If I'm Wrong?"

Jenny Urch [00:50]:
"Dr. Heather Thompson Day, you are a best selling author. ... Can you give us a little bit of background on your story?"

Dr. Heather shares the genesis of her book, "What If I'm Wrong?", which emerged from her struggles with understanding God's fairness amidst her father’s battle with Alzheimer's. She reflects on her father's unwavering commitment to ministry and his subsequent illness, leading her to question the transactional nature of faith.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [01:13]:
"I was going through this three year period where I was really struggling with God's fairness... How are we even going to afford to care for you?"
Jenny Urch [03:37]:
"There's a verse that says, catch your bread upon the water... you've cast your bread upon the water, and the result may not look like what you expect it to be."

Coping with Alzheimer’s and Transforming Relationships

The discussion deepens as Dr. Heather describes the transformation in her relationship with her father as Alzheimer's progressed. She poignantly recounts a moment where her father, despite his deteriorating memory, recognized her through the bond of love.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [05:12]:
"He may not know my name, but he knows me. In the midst of his suffering, love truly remains."

This section highlights the enduring power of love and the restructuring of familial relationships in the face of dementia.

The Concept of Passion and Suffering

Dr. Heather redefines "passion" not as mere enthusiasm but as a commitment that persists through suffering. She emphasizes that true passion drives individuals to continue their pursuits despite obstacles and lack of external validation.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [10:10]:
"Passion is what we can't help but do despite not having any of those things. It's the greatest gift my dad gave me."

She encourages listeners to identify what they are willing to suffer for, framing it as a deeper, more meaningful engagement with life’s pursuits.

Generational Legacy and Seed Planting

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the idea of planting seeds—actions and choices that benefit not just the individual but future generations. Dr. Heather discusses how her father's sacrifices and her own efforts have interwoven to create a lasting legacy.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [12:28]:
"We are part of this much larger picture that is so much bigger than our own lives."
Jenny Urch [23:25]:
"God remembered. God answered prayers in my daughter's life that my daughter never even prayed."

Overcoming Perceived Failure

The hosts explore the theme of failure and its unexpected positive outcomes. Dr. Heather shares her experience of feeling like her book was a failure due to low initial sales, only to discover its profound impact on a reader named Joe, who facilitated her transition to full-time ministry.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [44:43]:
"That failure didn't just end—it opened a door for someone else to sow seed."

This narrative underscores the podcast's central message: perceived failures can lead to unforeseen opportunities and blessings.

"Can I Sit Here?" – Co-authored with Her Daughter

Dr. Heather introduces her collaborative work with her daughter, London Day, titled "Can I Sit Here?". The book addresses themes of exclusion and inclusion, inspired by her daughter's challenging experiences in third grade. It serves as a tool to teach children empathy and kindness.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [29:36]:
"We wrote a book called Can I Sit Here? And it's about even if everybody ignores you, how do you choose to be a friend even if you don't have any?"

Impact of Small Actions and Making Moments for Others

Both Jenny and Dr. Heather emphasize the profound impact that small, intentional actions can have on others' lives. They share anecdotes illustrating how making a moment for someone can initiate a ripple effect of positive change.

Jenny Urch [47:15]:
"What if I'm wrong? ... You are part of a much broader story, even if you can't see it."
Dr. Heather Thompson Day [48:58]:
"Start when you see something. Say something to people. You have no idea what people are wrestling through."

Childhood Memories and the Importance of the Outdoors

Concluding the episode, Dr. Heather reminisces about her childhood growing up by Lake Michigan in St. Joe. She shares fond memories of outdoor adventures, highlighting the sanctuary that nature provided her during formative years.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [54:37]:
"I walked peers before I had a driver's license... This is living."

Jenny echoes the sentiment, underscoring the podcast's overarching theme of valuing time spent outdoors and creating meaningful experiences.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt reflections on the interconnectedness of personal struggles and the broader human narrative. Dr. Heather Thompson Day’s insights on faith, passion, and the significance of planting seeds offer a profound guide for listeners navigating their own challenges.

Dr. Heather Thompson Day [55:43]:
"Maybe she will [her daughter’s book be a bestseller]. This has been such an honor."
Jenny Urch [55:47]:
"Dr. Heather Thompson Day, thank you so much."

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [01:13]:
  "How are we even going to afford to care for you?"

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [05:12]:
  "In the midst of his suffering, love truly remains."

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [10:10]:
  "Passion is what we can't help but do despite not having any of those things."

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [12:28]:
  "We are part of this much larger picture that is so much bigger than our own lives."

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [44:43]:
  "That failure didn't just end—it opened a door for someone else to sow seed."

• Jenny Urch [47:15]:
  "What if I'm wrong? ... You are part of a much broader story, even if you can't see it."

• Dr. Heather Thompson Day [54:37]:
  "I walked peers before I had a driver's license... This is living."

Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a compelling introduction to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, blending personal narratives with universal themes of resilience and the unseen impacts of our actions. Dr. Heather Thompson Day's articulate discussion offers listeners both solace and inspiration, urging them to continue casting their bread upon the waters of life, trusting in the unseen returns.

Don’t miss the release of Dr. Heather Thompson Day’s ninth book, "Can I Sit Here?", available for pre-order now. Join Jenny Urch and Dr. Heather on this transformative journey towards embracing nature, fostering meaningful connections, and redefining success.