Jump Start Your Joy®

As we step into 2026, I'm excited to share my approach to planning your year with calm and ease. In this episode, I walk you through the exact planning methods I've used for over a decade to stay focused on what truly matters while maintaining peace and presence. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of life or simply want to create a roadmap for your goals, this episode will help you slow down mindfully so you can move forward with intention and joy throughout the year. Get the full episode notes on my website. I'm sharing two powerful planning tools that have transformed how I approach my goals: the "Ten in Three" exercise I created a decade ago, and a brand new seven-week planning cycle that I started using at the end of 2025 that has kept me focused on what matters in an easy and clam way. The best part? This is not acomplicated "system" that requires a specific planner, stickers, or a lot of time. It's just an easy way to remain connected to what brings you joy while making real progress on your dreams. Download the free printable worksheets at jumpstartyourjoy.com to follow along and start planning your year with calm and ease. In this episode, we cover: feel Resources: Download the free Planning Your Year with Calm and Ease (2026) worksheets Paula's Centering Prayer guided meditation on Insight Timer (free)Elsie Escobar's Eleague podcasting courseConnect with Paula on Instagram

Welcome back to Jump Start Your Joy! I'm so excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the show with you. In this special episode, I reflect on a decade of podcasting, the transitions that have shaped my life, and the importance of being present for the moments that matter most. From recording in my car to embracing new adventures with my family and community, this milestone is a chance to look back, take stock, and set intentions for the years ahead. Get the show notes and join my newsletter to get updates at my website. This episode dives into themes of mindfulness, intentionality, and the power of community. I share how the world's challenges: from political shifts to the rise of AI and climate change have made it more important than ever to find our grounding and support one another. We talk about the value of real connection, the courage to keep creating, and the ways we can all "jump start" our own joy, even when things feel overwhelming. In this episode, we cover: Resources: Jump Start Your Joy websiteJumpstart Your Joy on InstagramBrene Brown's "Strong Ground"Adam the Woo YouTube ChannelTaylor Swift's "The Eras Tour" documentary on Disney+Scott Leftwich episode on Jump Start Your JoyEgg Whisperer Show Lewis Howes: Start Your Profitable Podcast & Build Your Brand on Creative Live

I’m excited to welcome back Andrea Owen! A lot has happened since her last visit in 2021, and she’s here to share her powerful journey over the past few years. We dive into Andrea’s experience during the pandemic and how ‘pandemic time’ reshaped her perspective on life and relationships. She opens up about navigating divorce, facing health challenges, and receiving an autoimmune diagnosis, all while maintaining her commitment to personal growth and self-discovery. Andrea also highlights the importance of advocating for yourself in medical situations and what she’s learned along the way. We explore how Andrea has embraced sex and intimacy as a path to personal growth, the transformative role of psychedelics therapy, and her journey toward living authentically. This conversation is full of honesty, inspiration, and actionable insights for anyone navigating life’s transitions. In this episode, we cover: Resources: Read the full show notes on Jump Start Your Joy 52 Ways to Live a Kick-Ass Life: BS-Free Wisdom to Ignite Your Inner Badass and Live the Life You Deserve by Andrea Owen How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t by Andrea Owen Make Some Noise: Speak Your Mind and Own Your Strength by Andrea Owen Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat. Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.

This episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Judith Tripp, a multifaceted leader who brings together spirituality, psychology, and art in her work. Judith is the force behind DreamQuest retreats at Grace Cathedral, a labyrinth facilitator, a transpersonal psychotherapist, and a musician. In this episode, we explore: We also discuss the beauty of stepping into liminal spaces, the power of collective inner work, and how these experiences can lead to profound joy and transformation. Judith shares reflections on her early life joys, the importance of intentional gatherings, and upcoming DreamQuest retreats. This episode is filled with insights on spirituality, interconnectedness, and the transformative potential of community and inner work. Read the full show notes at Jump Start Your Joy Judith Tripp's website: CircleWay DreamQuest Retreat registration Judith Tripp's book: Circleway, The Story of Women's Dream Quest Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this week's episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I'm talking about the concept of 'glimmers,' which are the small instances of joy, hope, or inspiration that counterbalance life's triggers. The episode aims to provide listeners with ways to identify and cherish these glimmers, especially during times of chaos and uncertainty. It's my intention that Jump Start Your Joy continues to be a comforting space through this podcast, offering weekly moments of respite and inspiration for all listeners. I'd love to hear from you about how you've seen glimmers in your world, and you can email me a jumpstartyourjoy@gmail.com or tag me in a photo of your glimmer on instagram https://www.instagram.com/jumpstartyourjoy/ Highlights include the significance of glimmers, personal reflections, and a warm welcome message aimed to make listeners feel seen, heard, and cared for. How to Look for Glimmers in Daily Life: Read the full show notes on Jump Start Your Joy. Resources USA Today article on glimmersURMC article on ambiguous lossCory Allen on InstagramJulia Samuel on Jump Start Your JoyFred LeBlanc on Jump Start Your Joy Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024. Jump Start Your Joy is lovingly curated to offer a refreshing pause from the daily grind, inviting you to step outside routine and intentionally engage with stories of resilience, joy, and possibility. Each episode creates a space for reflection and inspiration, encouraging you to reconnect with what brings meaning and magic to your life. It is hosted by Paula Jenkins, a labyrinth facilitator, retreat leader, and trained mindfulness mentor. You can learn more about the show at jumpstartyourjoy.com To join in, find Jump Start Your Joy on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m thrilled to welcome Lars Howlett, a Master Labyrinth Builder and Advanced Labyrinth Facilitator, to explore the captivating world of labyrinths! Lars brings extensive knowledge about labyrinth building, labyrinth symbolism, and the power these sacred spaces have to transform lives. We dive into Lars’ unique journey from photography teacher to apprentice with a renowned labyrinth master builder, giving listeners an inside look at what it means to create these intricate paths. Lars also shares fascinating insights about the historic labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral and its influence on today’s labyrinth movement. Whether you’re new to labyrinths or a dedicated labyrinth enthusiast, this episode offers something special for everyone. Join us as we uncover the beauty and significance of labyrinths with Lars Howlett, and get inspired to explore this sacred art form in your own life! Resources: Read the full show notes on my website. Find Lars Howlett's website, "Discover Labyrinths" Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024. Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:02 Meet Lars Howlet: Master Labyrinth Builder 00:59 Exploring the World of Labyrinths 01:31 Lars' Early Sparks of Joy 03:50 Understanding Labyrinths: Definition and Symbolism 05:08 Labyrinths vs. Mazes: Key Differences 11:35 Lars' Journey to Becoming a Labyrinth Builder 19:26 The Calling of the Labyrinth 29:00 Exploring Labyrinth Designs 30:23 Creating Labyrinths for Different Spaces 31:03 The Process of Building a Labyrinth 31:39 Labyrinths as Unique Artworks 32:33 Designing for Accessibility 38:16 Historical Significance of Labyrinths 43:49 Guiding First-Time Labyrinth Walkers 48:14 The Joy of Labyrinth Creation 49:41 Connecting with Lars and Final Thoughts

In this heartwarming episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m taking you along with me on a journey back to Yale Divinity School for my 25th reunion—a place where old friendships, profound growth, and life’s deeper questions all come together. Reuniting with friends, revisiting cherished memories, and even leading a Labyrinth walk, I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to reconnect with both people and places that have shaped who we are. I’ll share the magic of the labyrinth as both a spiritual tool and a metaphor for life’s journey—how its twists and turns mirror our own paths and how it can guide us through the beautiful complexities of growth, purpose, and joy. In this episode, I'm sharing: Resources Interview with Christopher Freimuth: Gardens, Labyrinths, and Spiritual Journeys The First episode: Kathleen Davies on 'More Light,' Love and Acceptance Compassion Quest: Join us on November 23rd Dr. Aimee, The Egg Whisperer: Choosing to Sparkle Everyday Morgan Bolander on Singing, Songwriting, and Finding Joy Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Exciting Reunions 01:38 Welcome to Jump Start Your Joy 02:28 Reconnecting with Old Friends 04:34 Reflections on Life and Career 06:22 The Journey of Jump Start Your Joy 12:52 The Power of Showing Up 18:27 Rediscovering Purpose and Joy 25:33 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward

In this episode of 'Jump Start Your Joy,' join Paula in a rich conversation with Christopher Freimuth, a Yale Divinity School student and owner of CF Gardens in New York City. The episode unpacks Chris's journey from his rural upbringing in Connecticut to becoming a professional gardener in New York City, with a focus on the spiritual and ecological significance of gardening. Chris shares how he employs gardening to create ecological habitats and foster a connection to nature for his urban clients, emphasizing a meticulous approach to sourcing materials and plants. In this coversation, we talk about: Resources: CF Gardens website: https://cfgardens.com/ The Well Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress Walking the Labyrinth: A Spiritual and Practical Guide by Sally Welch Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024. Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

In this episode, Paula is joined by the remarkable Illana Burk, a coach and consultant with a passion for helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs thrive. Illana shares her journey from being a dancer to becoming a successful business mentor, diving into her philosophy on building values-based businesses. The conversation is filled with practical advice, laughter, and a fresh perspective on modern entrepreneurship. Key Points That We Discuss: Additional Resources: website'Good Business with Illana Burk''Go For the No' 'Compassion Quest' retreat Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Jump Start Your Joy 00:17 Meet Illana Burk: Coach and Consultant 01:09 Warm Welcome and Episode Overview 03:08 Illana's Earliest Sparks of Joy 05:25 Journey from Dancer to Business Mentor 08:55 Challenges and Realizations in Entrepreneurship 15:28 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business

Liminal space is defined as the transitional space that can be physical, metaphorical, spiritual, or emotional. Pulling from examples in Disneyland, Proper People, & Station Eleven I'm looking at how we navigate through liminal space when we encounter it. Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/02/liminal-space/ In this episode, I'm discussing: - the definition of liminal space - the four types of liminal space: physical, emotional, metaphorical, and spiritual - examples of liminal space in every day life - intentional liminal space and happenstance liminal space, and how they are different - 5 ways to work with liminal space when you encounter it in your life Resources Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ What is Liminal Space on "A Liminal Space" The Impact of Liminal Space on Mental Health on Very Well Mind The Proper People on YouTube Liminal Space at Disney Parks by Offhand Disney Station Eleven on HBO Max Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube Love the show, and what to show your support? Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/navigating-politics-and-self-care-with-expert-tami-hackbarth/ In this episode, I'm joined by Tami Hackbarth, a seasoned author, activist, and advocate for 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care. Together, they explore the crucial intersection of self-care and activism, especially vital in today’s political climate. Tami shares practical strategies for sustaining joy and energy, even when the world feels overwhelming. Key Takeaways: Self-Care is Essential: Prioritize self-care to maintain your energy and effectiveness in activism. Incorporate daily practices such as walking, meditation, and screen-free time to manage stress and enhance your well-being. Know Your Values: Use your core values as a compass for your actions and decisions, helping you stay grounded and focused amidst political challenges. Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Utilize deep canvassing techniques to have constructive, impactful discussions about politics, fostering understanding and collaboration within your community. Resources Tami Hackbarth's website and podcast Tami's book: The Essential Guide to 100% Guilt Free Self Care The Persuaders by Anand Giridharadas The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier Words to Win By with Anat Shenker-Osorio (podcast) The NewsWorthy with Erica Mandy (podcast) Resistance Live with Elizabeth Cronise McLaughlin (YouTube) Mobilize US – Find and join local activism events. Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 Deep Dive into Self-Care and Activism 03:51 Practical Self-Care Tips 06:43 Meditation and Self-Compassion 10:56 Political Landscape and Activism 20:42 Effective Communication in Activism 27:56 Discovering Trusted News Sources 29:27 The Impact of News on Mental Health 32:45 Understanding Stress Responses 34:35 The Importance of Self-Care 37:53 Deep Canvassing and Political Engagement 39:09 Building Community and Connection 42:31 Tami Hackbarth's Offerings 51:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/transforming-life-and-leadership-through-kindness-with-lara-heacock In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, host Paula Jenkins welcomes Lara Heacock, executive coach, and Editor-in-Chief of Kind Over Matter. We discuss the practices of kindness and joy, and how these have become essential tools in navigating today's world. Lara shares her journey from corporate America to becoming an advocate for kindness, including tangible tips for practicing self-kindness and integrating these values into professional settings. With a deep dive into the emotional facets of empathy, integrity, and resilience, this conversation offers valuable insights the audience can apply in their daily lives. Resources: Kind Over Matter: https://kindovermatter.com/ Lara Heacock's website: https://laraheacock.com/ Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock: https://amzn.to/3Y9PrPI Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 05:01 Practices of Kindness and Joy 31:19 Self-Kindness and Practical Tips 24:18 Kindness in Leadership 40:06 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/08/return-to-nature-emma-loewe/ Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this month’s theme of “finding home,” and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe. In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about: Resources Emma Loewe’s book, “Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us” on Bookshop.org Emma Loewe’s website Emma Loewe on Instagram Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Reflecting on Nature's Restorative Power 01:04 Engaging with the Audience 02:24 Introducing Emma Lowey and Her Book 03:18 Emma's Early Inspirations and Environmental Path 04:26 The Personal and Passionate Journey of Writing 06:21 The Impact of Nature on Mental Health 09:20 The Science Behind Nature's Benefits 09:48 Creative Processes During the Pandemic 12:14 Exploring Different Landscapes 13:35 The Healing Power of Water and Forests 23:08 Practical Steps for Environmental Action 26:21 Emma's Personal Practices and Final Thoughts 31:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/celebrating-37-years-of-joy-an-interview-with-retiring-educator-molly-barnes/ In this heartfelt episode, Paula interviews Molly Barnes, the beloved principal and superintendent of Sunol Glenn Elementary. Molly shares her passionate journey in education, reflecting on the joy and challenges of her career. Listeners get an inside look at her unique approach to fostering a welcoming and enthusiastic school environment. Discover the powerful moments and intentional choices that have made Sunol Glenn Elementary a special place for students, parents, and staff alike. As Molly prepares for her well-deserved retirement, she discusses the importance of building strong community relationships, supporting educators, and creating joyful learning experiences. Tune in to hear moving stories, valuable insights, and the impactful legacy of a dedicated educator who truly made a difference. Resources: Molly receiving the Woman of the Year Award from Alex Lee Coverage of Molly's retirement in the Pleasanton Weekly Others: Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here. Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Here are some of the key moments in this interview: Earliest Sparks of Joy in Education: Molly Barnes talks about her childhood experiences that ignited her passion for education, including her love for school supplies and the excitement of preparing for a new school year. Impact of Political Climate in Education: Molly reflects on the challenges posed by the political environment and its influence on the school district, emphasizing the importance of keeping the focus on students' well-being and learning. Importance of Community in Education: Molly shares the significance of building a strong sense of community within the school, highlighting the roles of teachers, parents, and students in creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Molly Barnes' Retirement Plans: As she approaches retirement, Molly discusses her future plans, including spending time with her family and potentially volunteering in local schools to continue her passion for education. Supporting Educators and Teachers: Both Paula and Molly discuss the critical role parents and the community can play in supporting teachers and school staff. They emphasize the need for understanding, communication, and collaboration to foster a positive educational experience for all. Time Stamps: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:19 Meet Molly Barnes: A Celebrated Educator 02:13 Molly's Early Sparks of Joy 03:11 The Excitement of Back-to-School 06:20 The Role of Community in Education 09:19 Navigating Political Challenges 13:03 A Unique Commuter School 20:25 The Benefits and Challenges of a Small School 26:16 Memorable Moments at Sunol Glen 30:41 Heartfelt Reflections 32:05 The Changing Landscape of Education 35:36 Supporting Teachers and Administrators 36:50 Challenges in the Teaching Profession 42:27 Memorable Teachers and Experiences 45:22 Award Recognition and Community Support 47:22 Retirement Plans and Future Aspirations 51:02 Spreading Joy and Final Thoughts 52:56 Closing Remarks and Reflections

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/activism-and-resilience-with-christy-tending-writing-through-grief-and-joy/ I'm welcoming back my friend and author Christy Tending. Christy is joining me to discuss her new book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," which is a lyrical exploration of disobedience, grief, healing, and climate activism. Packed with heartfelt reflections and practical advice for activists, Christy's book offers a unique blend of memoir and guide. We also dive into a thoughtful conversation about the personal and societal challenges we've faced over the last few years, highlighting the importance of community, preparedness, and personal resilience. We discuss the practical aspects of activism, the emotional toll of recent global events, and how Christy's writing has navigated these complex landscapes. Key Highlights: Resources: ChristyTending.com/bookshttps://www.instagram.com/christytendinghttps://amzn.to/3W71dc4 Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.JumpstartYourJoy.comBuy Me a Coffee Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 00:20 Introducing Christy and Her New Book 00:33 Exploring the Themes of the Book 01:04 Community and Resources for Listeners 02:08 Christy's Journey and Writing Process 03:37 Navigating Modern Challenges 10:47 Practical Tips for Activists 15:13 Emergency Preparedness and Community Support 21:39 The Power of Community in Publishing 26:56 The Weird Book Thing 27:05 Self-Publishing Journey 27:48 Making Cool Stuff Without Permission 29:04 The Challenges of Writing a Book 30:18 Processing Isolation and Loss 39:37 The Role of an Editor 41:16 The Importance of Specificity in Writing 48:58 Finding Joy in the Little Things 50:59 Final Thoughts and Inspiration

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/finding-joy-through-structure-and-elegance-with-jennifer-l-scott/ In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, Paula interviews Jennifer L. Scott, the New York Times bestselling author of the Madame Chic Series and content creator behind The Daily Connoisseur, who shares how adding structure and more formality to life can bring intentional joy. Jennifer highlights her experiences living with a traditional family in Paris, her journey as a YouTuber through the Daily Connoisseur, and how she navigates homeschooling while balancing her professional life. The conversation dives into how self-discipline and mindful living can transform daily routines, and Jennifer offers tips on being present, observing nature, and incorporating lifelong learning into one's lifestyle. Paula also introduces a new segment on inspiration, intention, or action, encouraging listeners to continually seek personal growth. Resources: Buy Jennifer's Book, Lessons From Madame Chic: https://amzn.to/3KYSCln The Daily Connoisseur on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEnEnLT5wBVnK56QFRg_Iwg Jennifer L. Scott's website: https://jenniferlscott.com/ Jump Start Your Joy's website: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/ Labyrinth Walk information: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:42 Jennifer L. Scott's Background and YouTube Channel 03:34 The Joys of Childhood and Early Inspirations 05:40 Writing the Madame Chic Series 08:08 Living a Formal Life: Lessons from Paris 10:43 Pandemic Reflections and Seeking Structure 16:23 Community Feedback and Personal Transformations 22:28 The Struggles of YouTube Content Creation 22:58 Taking YouTube Seriously 24:25 Balancing YouTube and Personal Life 26:36 The Chic Assignments 29:54 Homeschooling and Delegation 31:17 The Reality Behind YouTube Success 34:21 Future Plans and Community Building 37:37 Final Thoughts and Inspirations

Get the full show notes: Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy Alison Arngrim, the actress best known for her role as Nellie Oleson on 'Little House on the Prairie' joins Paula in this look back episode. This episode, originally recorded a few years ago, is revisited as Paula and her son prepare to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead and on the 50th anniversary of the TV show. Alison shares her journey from suffering abuse as a child to finding empowerment through acting. She discusses her audition for Nellie Oleson, her experiences working with Michael Landon, and her transformation into an AIDS activist after her co-star Steve Tracy's death. Alison also touches on the dynamics with her castmates, the impact of the show globally, and her post-'Little House' work, including her standup comedy and public speaking on surviving abuse. The episode emphasizes Alison's decision to turn her situation into a source of joy and advocacy. Listeners are also guided to check out the show notes and follow Paula's adventures in Kansas on Instagram. Resources Alison Arngrim's Bonnetheads.com website (sign up for the Nellie Newsletter here) Alison Arngrim's Book, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch on Amazon Love the show, and want to show your support? Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode. Subscribe to my YouTube channel Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:31 Revisiting a Classic Episode 01:04 Welcome New Listeners 01:48 Introducing Alison Arngrim 03:04 Alison's Early Career and Little House on the Prairie 05:13 The Audition for Nelly Olson 11:42 The Global Impact of Little House on the Prairie 14:42 Behind the Scenes with Michael Landon 19:25 The Friendship with Melissa Gilbert 21:58 Public Reactions and Personal Reflections 31:29 Navigating Early Uncertainty 32:02 Building a Support System 32:54 A Love Story Blossoms 33:26 Shared Values and Compatibility 35:44 Embracing Public Recognition 39:31 Turning Fame into a Force for Good 43:05 Confessions of a Prairie Bitch 45:21 Empowering Women Through Lectures 51:03 Practical Advice for Aspiring Changemakers 56:03 Finding Joy in Everyday Life

Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/exploring-trauma-and-joy-with-author-jen-soriano Follow/subscribe to JSYJ (free) on your favorite app: https://plnk.to/JumpStartYourJoy In this episode of Jumpstart Your Joy, Paula interviews Jen Soriano, a Filipinx writer and movement builder, about her experiences with trauma and healing. They discuss Jen's book 'Nervous Essays on Heritage and Healing,' the effects of trauma, and the importance of addressing collective pain. The conversation delves into the difference between trauma-informed and trauma-wise approaches, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the pressing issues within local communities, such as the banning of pride flags in schools. Jen also shares her personal journey through grief and chronic pain and offers practical advice and insights into the fundamentals of healing and finding joy. Find Jen Soriano's website: https://www.jensoriano.net/ Jen Soriano on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensorianowrites Buy the book: https://amzn.to/4cfAkrw Love the show, and want to show your support? Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode. Subscribe to my YouTube channel 00:00 Welcome to Season Eight! 01:03 Introducing Jen Soriano 01:38 Diving into Trauma and Healing 04:16 Jen's Childhood Joys 06:21 The Birth of a Book 10:17 Understanding Trauma 15:23 Chronic Pain and Trauma 22:54 The Fluidity of Our Nervous Systems 25:09 Rewiring Neural Circuits for Joy 27:25 The Pandemic's Collective Trauma 29:44 Addressing Global and Local Issues 32:28 School Board Controversies and Trauma 42:15 Healing Trauma and Finding Joy 46:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/what-do-you-stand-for/ In the first episode of Season 8 of 'Jumpstart Your Joy,' I'm returning after an 18-month break to discuss the profound changes and reflections experienced during the hiatus. The episode dives into themes of intentional living, navigating grief, the importance of setting boundaries, challenging hustle culture, and the reverberating impact of focusing on internal growth over external validation. Emphasizing the significance of finding joy even amidst hard times, the host also introduces upcoming topics and invites listeners to join a vibrant community centered around positivity and personal growth. Want to Learn More About Labyrinths and get a Labyrinth Walking guide? Sign up on my website. https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/ Resources: Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan: Discover the Joy of Spending Less, Sharing More, and Living Generously by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out by Amanda Ripley Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate) Love the show, and want to show your support? Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode. Subscribe to my YouTube channel 00:00 Welcome Back to Jumpstart Your Joy 01:00 Reflecting on a Long Break 01:28 Intentional Living and Time Management 01:59 Navigating Grief and Personal Loss 03:20 Understanding Growth Beyond Hustle Culture 09:07 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 14:05 Finding Joy Amidst Societal Challenges 24:29 The Power of Intentionality and Reflection 25:11 Embracing Labyrinth Work 29:48 Looking Forward: Season Eight Plans

This week's episode is the finale of season seven where I've been talking all about intentional comfort and how to bring more comfort and ease into your everyday life. If you have not yet listened to the episode where I did the countdown of the top 10 most downloaded episodes, you can tune in here. 1. Choose comfort, and build it into our lives. I think we are looking for a way to wind down and a way to hold space for the things that we've done and to take a breather. It may be that the world feels heavy, and that you need a break. Mirror what you choose to do with what the seasons do. Winter is a time of darkness and quiet and solitude. And so I think comfort and joy are bookends for each other, but I think they also go hand in hand. 2. See it as riding the wave. If youcan ride the wave of whateverdifficult thing you're facing, and intentionally schedule in comfort, you will be in a better place. It can be helpful to know that this current situation is temporary, and ride it out. And, you can get through it by clinging to that intentional comfort that we are setting up for yourself. 3. Everything is cyclical. Hard times, good times. Comforting times, overwhelming times. It's all cyclical. Knowing that there is a season for each thing that sometimes will be easier. Sometimes it'll be harder. And knowing this can maybe help you find comfort in one that the season will change just like if you ride out the wave. But in two, that, that this is part of the bigger plan and pattern. 4. Learn to live an "Untethered Life," as inspired by the book by Michael A Singer. The really big takeaway for me with that book is that you can start to question some of the patterns and habits that you recognize that you have after you spent some time looking at them. Because comfort can come from getting to know yourself instead of fighting whatever comes up and ruminating on whatever comes up. 5. Joy and happiness is comforting. Make time for whatever it is that makes you happy. Let go of the expectations and the pressure of day-to-day life that's telling us what we "should" do or want. Learning to let yourself be in the present moment, without feeling the need to document for social media or feel the pressure to share every detail with anyone else. Resources: Season 7 Countdown (finale pt 1) Audible version of "Untethered life" by Michael A Singer (affiliate) Join me for a Virtual Labyrinth walk (free) on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 1pm PST | 4pm EST Love the show, and want to show your support? Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode. Subscribe to my YouTube channel