Jump Start Your Joy®

In this special 10th anniversary episode, I'm revisiting one of my all-time favorite conversations from the Jump Start Your Joy archives: my 2016 interview with Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block. This conversation holds a deeply personal place in my heart, not just because of Danny's inspiring story, but because it literally changed the trajectory of my life in ways I never could have imagined. Danny opens up about his solo album "Look at Me," created to benefit the Remember Betty Foundation, which he founded in honor of his mother who passed away from breast cancer in 1999. We explore themes of loss, transformation, and how tragedy can birth beautiful legacies. Read the full show notes on my website. In this episode, we cover: Resources: Keywords: Danny Wood, New Kids on the Block, NKOTB, Remember Betty Foundation, breast cancer awareness, grief and loss, transforming tragedy, mother-son relationship, fan community, health and fitness inspiration, solo music, charitable foundation, jumpstart your joy, Paula Jenkins podcast, personal transformation, sibling reconnection, living with purpose, embracing pain, legacy building, practical cancer support, New Kids on the Block cruise, Vegas residency

In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I'm taking a mindful pause to share five powerful techniques that can help you recenter when life feels overwhelming. Originally recorded after I led a mindfulness program at a summer camp (a place that holds such a special spot in my heart) this episode feels especially relevant given everything happening in our world right now. While I had planned to discuss intentional whimsy this week, I felt called to revisit this conversation about mindfulness and practical tools we can all use to navigate challenging moments with more grace and presence. The 5 Tips I share around mindfulness are: Mindfulness is a great way to find more joy and center yourself. In this time of transition, when things feel difficult, it's great to have a few easy, go-to mindfulness tools. The five are: 1. Notice your emotions, and share them with someone else. 2. Breathe, as taught by Thich Nhat Hanh. I share his practice of inhaling, exhaling, and smiling. 3. Observe (or spend time in) Nature. As discussed in my previous episode with Emma Loewe, author of Return to Nature, nature has restorative properties for humans. When you feel stressed, take a moment to look out your window or take a break for a walk if you have the time. 4. Meditate, using a visual or guided meditation. 5. Spend time walking a labyrinth, either by physically walking a labyrinth or using a hand labyrinth. Resources: Peace Is Every Step by Thich Nhat HanhEmma Loewe interview on Return to NatureSarah Blondin meditations on Insight Timer Paula's meditations on Insight Timer VeriditasWorld Labyrinth LocatorPortable labyrinth cards Follow to Jump Start Your Joy on Apple Podcasts Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy on Spotify Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, stress relief, anxiety management, breathing techniques, Thich Nhat Hanh, nature therapy, labyrinth walking, emotional regulation, self-care, mental health, mindful living, grounding techniques, present moment awareness, overwhelm, triggered emotions, centering practices, Insight Timer, guided meditation, walking meditation, somatic response, intentional living, personal growth, wellness podcast, mindfulness for beginners, coping strategies, emotional wellness, stress management, mindful breathing, nature connection, labyrinth meditation, joy, resilience, self-awareness, inner peace

In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I'm diving into something we all need right now: gentle, accessible ways to reconnect with joy during difficult times. I open with a powerful quote from Michelle Obama about planning for joy, especially for those of us who are caretakers, empaths, or sensitive types who can easily get burnt out. I explore three distinct types of joy that can serve as doorways back to ourselves: comfort joy (the soothing, familiar things that help us exhale), connecting joy (the vital relationships that remind us we're not alone), and meaningful joy (the deeper pursuits that connect us to something bigger than ourselves). Read the full show notes on my website. In this episode, we cover: Resources: "plan your joy" (fall 2020)YouTube channel (abandoned house series)Ram Dass recordingswritings on Christianity (The Wisdom Jesus)How to Plan Your 2026"Lauren Artress interview episode on labyrinth work Keywords: joy, self-care, gentle living, Michelle Obama, planning for joy, comfort practices, meaningful connection, burnout prevention, empaths, sensitive people, nervous system reset, intentional living, small joys, caretaker wellness, 2026 goals, labyrinth work, creative renewal, podcast for introverts, finding center, slow living, jumpstart your joy

Welcome back to Jump Start Your Joy! In this episode, I'm sharing something deeply personal my unexpected word of the year for 2026: HARMONY. This word literally came to me in the middle of the night, and as I share my story, you'll understand why it makes perfect sense. I'm diving into how music, which was such a huge part of my childhood, has been missing from my life and how I'm intentionally bringing it back. From rediscovering my old Armstrong flute after 40 years to planning a duet with my trombone-playing son, this episode is all about reconnecting with what brings us joy. Read the full show notes on my website. This episode explores the themes of rediscovery, intentionality, and taking small steps toward joy. I talk about the power of recognizing what's missing in our lives and how even the smallest actions, like turning on the radio or pulling an old instrument out of the closet, can spark a the beginning of transformation. I also share my journey of finding community through music and how the inspiration-intention-action framework can help you jump start your own joy. Whether you're looking to reconnect with a forgotten passion or find your way back to center, this episode will encourage you to take that first tiny step. In this episode, we cover: Resources: PretaVoyager Instagram account by Anne Ditmeyer Override! What if there was another way? A pocket playbook for possibility.What I Found in My ClosetPaula's trip to Paris and finding hope Keywords: word of the year, harmony, rediscovering passion, music and joy, playing flute, community building, inspiration intention action, jump start your joy, finding what's missing, reconnecting with childhood hobbies, small steps to joy, intentional living, Paula Jenkins podcast host, personal growth, self-discovery

In this episode, I share the deeply inspiring experiences from my recent trip to Paris with my 14-year-old son. What started as an eighth-grade graduation gift became a profound journey through living history, exploring three iconic sites that offered unexpected lessons about resilience, courage, and the power of individual choice. From the newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral rising magnificently from the ashes of its 2019 fire, to standing at the Arc de Triomphe where my son experienced a powerful moment of historical realization, to walking the medieval labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral (the birthplace of the modern labyrinth movement) each experience left me with renewed hope and inspiration. Read the full show notes on my website. Get your Plan Your 2026 guide. In this episode, we cover: Resources: @jumpstartyourjoyNotre Dame Cathedral documentary on NBCCobblestone Paris apartment rentals Lauren Artress interviews about Veriditas and the labyrinth movement Keywords: Paris travel, Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, Chartres Cathedral, medieval labyrinth, Lauren Artress, Veriditas, World War II history, Colonel Welborn Barton Griffith Jr, General Dietrich von Choltitz, liberation of Paris, labyrinth walking, Grace Cathedral, AIDS epidemic, French h

In this episode, I'm getting personal and sharing a discovery that felt like a gift at exactly the right time. While clearing out my closet in search of structure and calm, I found my old portable CD player from 1997, still loaded with U2's "The Best Of 1980-1990." When track four started playing, I was instantly transported back to grad school and reminded of my personal theme song: "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." This episode is about longing, faith, and finding joy in the messy middle of life. I dive deep into why this song became a favorite. I explorie its spiritual roots and what Bono meant when he called it "a gospel song with a restless spirit." We'll look at the biblical references woven throughout the lyrics, including what I consider a powerful connection to Jesus's cry on the cross in Matthew 27:46. I share three key insights this song offers us in 2026: that joy isn't dependent on having everything figured out, that faith and longing are powerful motivators, and that being a spiritual person means staying curious, questioning, and engaged, even when things feel hard. In this episode, we cover: Resources: I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking ForI Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking ForApple PodcastsSpotifyjumpstartyourjoy.com@jumpstartyourjoy Keywords: theme song, U2, I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For, faith and doubt, spiritual journey, joy in the messy middle, longing, Christian spirituality, gospel music, Bono, Joshua Tree album, finding joy, spiritual practice, faith and questioning, religious exploration, personal growth, mindfulness, hope, Matthew 27:46, Psalm 22, living with intention, Nancy Meyers aesthetic, decluttering, self-discovery, INFJ, Yale Divinity School, religious studies, paradox, tension, wayfinding emotions

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