Have you ever read a work of fiction that was so well written you experienced events with the characters? Kristen Hannah's The Women did that for me. Such an amazing writer! But this episode is not a book recommendation; it's a transparent confession of how complex PTSD landed in my life. I also share how I've worked to let go of the emotions that accompany the somatic experiences. I talk a bit about EMDR and therapy in general.

In which I read aloud my favorite children's book and share reflections on it's continuing inspiration.

It's been more than a few minutes since my last episode 146 encouraging you to read David Brooks' latest book How to Know a Person. I've been thinking a lot about the ways books have enhanced my life. I chose four positive effects of reading to remind you of today. Whether you are leading a group, a team, an organization or your own self, reading is essential. I've talked about the research supporting the value of reading in several episodes. Listen in to hear some positive effects of reading that will make you want to go read!

I just finished a delightful book by David Brooks titled How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen. It is a delightful book because it aligns with the messages of growth and listening as well as so many other points I've shared here on the podcast. Listen to learn why you need to read this book!

Our conversation guest today is Holley Gerth. Holley is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, licensed counselor, and life coach. She imagines a world where we all become who we’re created to be, use our strengths to serve, and grow for a lifetime. Holley cofounded the groundbreaking blogging community (in)courage and cohosts the popular podcast More Than Small Talk.

Establishing new rhythms for my work, life and faith in 2024 have taken longer than they used to! All of January I was discerning what to keep, what to let go and where to lean in so I was ready to really get going in February.

Turns out in this season of my life I am more easily distracted than I used to be. The biggest culprit is EMAIL.

What does it mean to connect the dots if we don't have the dots collected in one place? This adds a Why to the What and How of living a dot to dot life.

Please tell me I'm not alone with the kind of day I had today! Distractions that appeared like emergencies took two hours of my time and took my emotions outside my window of tolerance. Ever had that happen?