Podcast
Your Story Matters
Hosted by Michaela Elizabeth · EN
Hello + Welcome! Your Story Matters Podcast is for story lovers + storytellers as we work through life from its perspectives, seasons of life, relationships + more. My hope for this show is that we will experience the power of storytelling + understand that we are the main characters in our own stories to break free from the false narratives.
38episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#100 From Actor to Editor: How One Woman Discovered Her True Passion in Storytelling with Stephanie Mitchell
1w ago00:46:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Stephanie Mitchell shares her journey from aspiring actor to accomplished memoir editor and coach. She discusses her early love for storytelling, her transition from acting to editing, and her passion for helping others tell their personal stories. Stephanie emphasizes the therapeutic and societal value of memoirs, highlighting how they can provide insight and foster empathy. The conversation also touches on the cultural pressures of finding a singular passion and the importance of embracing multiple interests. Stephanie's story is one of self-discovery and the courage to pivot towards fulfilling work. Free Download from Stephanie! Keep It or Cut It: The Memoir Writer's Story Filter shows you how to quickly and easily identify which stories belong in your memoir and which to leave outStephanie’s Favorite Books: The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay and Solito by Javier Zamora Connect with Stephanie: Website | Instagram | Facebook | The Memoir Writers' Book Club on FacebookConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#99 The Unexpected Power of Journaling During Life's Darkest Seasons with Shaina Hargens
2w ago00:39:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode featuring Shaina Hargens engages in a heartfelt conversation with Shaina, a speaker, coach, and creator of the Anchoring Admits journal. Shaina shares her journey through personal challenges, including grief and loss, and how these experiences shaped her mission to help women build resilience and find steadiness in life. She discusses the creation of her sisterhood community and the development of her guided journal, which aims to empower others through reflective journaling. The episode emphasizes themes of personal growth, the power of community, and the importance of staying grounded amidst life's changes. Shaina’s Favorite Book: Promptings by Kody Bateman Connect with Shaina: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Pinterest | YouTubeConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
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#98 Nervous System Regulation in Building Sustainable Success with Sarah-Jayne McNaughton
3w ago00:48:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Sarah-Jayne McNaughton shares her journey from a successful corporate career to becoming a life strategist and business coach. After experiencing burnout, she embarked on a path of self-discovery, leading her to help solopreneurs and small business owners. Sarah-Jayne emphasizes the importance of personal development alongside business strategy, focusing on clarity, confidence, and nervous system regulation to prevent burnout. She discusses the significance of living authentically and the joy of embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Her mission is to inspire others to live intentionally and pursue their dreams. Sarah-Jayne’s Favorite Books: 10x is easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on it by Kamal RavikantConnect with Sarah-Jayne: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#97 What Civil War Desertion Taught Me About Fighting for the Right Cause with Gary Parker
Jun 1700:41:51Tap to summarizeGary Parker is a prolific author with twenty traditionally published novels and six screenplays, known for his eclectic storytelling and deep historical research. His stories span genres but are united by his passion for truth and character-driven narratives.Join us for a conversation packed with craft tips, surprising historical insights, and a masterclass in epic storytelling that will leave you dreaming of your own novel. Don’t miss this inspiring deep dive into how one story, told well, can evolve, challenge, and ultimately change us. Pre-Order Gary’s New Book (coming out on June 23rd): The Judgement Tree Gary’s Favorite Book: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor TowlesConnect with Gary: Website | Facebook Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
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#96 Reclaiming Your Creative Identity with Michael Mirza
Jun 1000:58:23Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Michael Mirza shares his journey of rediscovering his artistic identity. He reflects on how his early passion for art was set aside for practical career choices in marketing and ministry. Now, as he approaches a new chapter in life, Michael is embracing creativity through pattern design and his podcast "Define Play." He discusses the importance of balancing personal passions with professional responsibilities and the joy of exploring new experiences. Michael's story is one of self-discovery, creativity, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. Michael’s Favorite Book: Rick Rubin - “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” Connect with Michael: Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedInConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#95 Hip Hop + Hope: One Woman’s Journey in the Slums of Cambodia with Romi Grossberg
Jun 400:47:07Tap to summarizeMost people spend decades searching for their purpose — Romi Grossberg's journey from rebellious teen to global mental health advocate proves it’s never too late to find your true calling.In this powerful episode, Romi shares how her life's twists and turns led her from a sports teacher in Australia to managing youth centers in Cambodia, and eventually to authoring life-changing books on emotional intelligence and healing trauma. Her story highlights the importance of listening to your inner voice and embracing authenticity, no matter how unpredictable the path. Romi's Memoir: Hip Hop + HopeRomi’s Favorite Book: Tao of Pooh by Benjamin HoffConnect with Romi: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTubeConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#94 The Hidden Link Between Self-Compassion + Healing from Childhood Chaos with Alison Zeidler
May 2700:34:45Tap to summarizeAlison Zeidler shares her inspiring story of overcoming childhood chaos, learning to communicate, and embracing holistic healing to transform her life. Discover practical insights on incremental change, self-awareness, and helping others.Alison’s Challenge for Celebrating What We’ve Done:Look at yourself in the mirrorPat yourself on the back and say, “good job. I’m here. I’ve been through stuff.” Pick one thing to give yourself credit for (ex. I got out of bed today)Say it every day for two weeksAlison’s Favorite Book: Anything by Stephen KingConnect with Alison: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#93 Life Beyond the Binge: A Commercial Fisherwoman’s Journey Home with Colleen Clifford
May 2000:35:32Tap to summarize***Trigger Warning - Alcohol Related Suicide***In this episode, Colleen Clifford shares her transformative journey from a life marked by binge drinking and personal tragedy to one of healing and empowerment. After the alcohol-related suicide of her late husband, Colleen vowed to change her life and help others by sharing her story. She discusses the impact of grief, the dangers of binge drinking, and the importance of mental health awareness. Colleen emphasizes the power of positive thinking and self-reflection, which led her to become an author and coach. Her upcoming book, "Life Beyond the Binge," aims to inspire others by offering hope and insights into overcoming personal struggles. Colleen’s Favorite Book: Man's Search for Meaning - Victor FranklConnect with Colleen: WebsiteConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#92 Surprising Facts About Your Subconscious with MJ Cassese
May 1300:42:29Tap to summarizeMost women don’t realize just how much their subconscious is running the show—and how it’s keeping them stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, and overthinking. MJ Cassese, a mindset coach and RTT practitioner, shares her powerful journey from living with high-functioning anxiety to uncovering the secret weapon that rewired her mind—and her life. Her story reveals how deep childhood messages shape our fears and habits, and how rapid transformational therapy can unlock lasting freedom in just 30 days. MJ’s Favorite Book: Becoming Magic by Genevieve DavisConnect with MJ: Website | Facebook | InstagramConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
Transcribe →#91 The Gift of Intuition + Hearing the Divine with Lucinda Shore
May 600:46:07Tap to summarizeDiscover how Lucinda Shore, an author, resilience educator, and creative visionary, shares her inspiring journey of healing, faith, and self-awareness. This episode explores the profound ways life's challenges can serve as catalysts for inner growth, emotional mastery, and spiritual connection. This episode provides inspiring insights into harnessing life's challenges as opportunities for meaningful growth, spiritual awakening, and developing resilience from the inside out.Lucinda’s Favorite Book: The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmerman BradleyConnect with Lucinda: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Blaze + Lili “Century of Tree Magic”Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
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