My guest is Maria Baltazzi - an author, Emmy-winning TV producer, wellbeing teacher, world traveler, and luxury travel designer who specializes in transformative adventures. We discuss her new book, "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want," which is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, GoodReads, and pretty much anywhere you get books. Check out Maria's website below to buy the book for someone yourself or someone you care about.

One of the original producers on CBS's hit reality show, "Survivors," Maria is an incredibly talented storyteller. We discuss how her work in TV and her world travels inspired her to write this book, which provides 8 Happiness Essentials that can create a happier, more fulfilling life. We chat about how important travel is to finding happiness. And Maria knows. She has walked over 7500 miles to raise funds for charity, including marathons on all 7 continents, climbed the 15,000-foot trail to Machu Picchu, summited Mt. Kilimanjaro twice, and trekked to Everest Base Camp.

I also share my initial reactions to Netflix's surprise release of their "engagement numbers," which reveal what shows and movies are receiving the most hours of viewing. I'm still going through the 18,000 titles and it's really fascinating... if you're into this sort of thing. In the first half of 2023, about 21% of their shows were watched less than 150,000 hours. But on the flip side, “The Night Agent,” a series that debuted globally March 23, racked up 812 million hours viewed by the end of June and finished first. More to come in future episodes.

Lastly, as we near the end of the year, I recommend 3 organizations to donate to. Take a look at the websites below if you need the information.

Maria's Website

Buy Maria's Book on Amazon

Variety Goes Inside the Netflix Numbers

My Website

My Threads

The Cameron Boyce Foundation

Cure Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation