Curious Navel

Chuck  may say he is afraid of failing but I think he's relatively fearless. He's transitioned across a few different careers to become an outdoor mindfulness guide , and he is willing to explore a world without indoor plumbing. He certainly heeds his own advice – be flexible.

Speaking with  Jaciel  was delightful – he is genuine, upbeat, thoughtful, and kind. And incredibly brave – a news anchor who is comfortable singing and acting in a starring role! You won't see him headlining on a cruise ship, but if you have the chance to meet  Jaciel , grab it.

Mary  is living her best life in West Palm Beach writing and bringing her positive attitude everywhere she goes – and it all started when she saw a tiger plunge into a bubble bath. As  Mary  says, never give up on yourself, and you are certain to find your joy and purpose.

Albert surprised me – he started off quietly explaining how he ended up in Hawaii and his life in journalism, but ended up sharing some of the most interesting perspectives and life views. He is a different person now, and still on the quest to share truth, just like Clark Kent.

Cathy has recreated her life more than once – from being brave enough to leave a job where the stress outweighed the joy, to coaching women at a seaside retreat, to running a nonprofit. And through it all, she has demonstrated her mantra – don't be afraid to look silly and don't compare yourself to others. Cathy's perspective will brighten your day.

After losing her husband unexpectedly, Kim embarked on a journey to discover the true meaning of love. Spending much of her time in Haiti, Kim unveiled some simple yet powerful rules – service is healing, love is a constant, and begin by loving yourself. Her message is certain to stay with you.

She can trace her ancestors to the Mayflower and hold hands with ghosts. And though she has no fear of true crime stories and houses haunted by axe murderers, you won't find her anywhere near a mummy. Listen to  Sylvia take us on a ride with some of the stories she tells in her books.

Sammy has several love languages – martial arts, video editing , and pierogies. And she is a barrel of energy and insight. Focusing on goals while staying open to possibility is the lesson we all need and it was a treat to learn what makes Sammy unique.

Lillian has had more challenges in her life than most of us and yet her resilience and persistence have brought her to a place where she shares love and kindness on a daily basis. She has a story that will move you and have you believing that the brownie recipe in her cookbook, From One Small Garden , is indeed the best.

Stephanie is the person we all need, with her straight no chaser style of motivation, and her insight on how to work through our stories and live our best life.  She applied those lessons to her own life to triumph over challenges most of us have not had to face and help countless others along the way.

Rex has moved at least 40 times over his life and settled in the California desert to live out his dream of being an inventor, focusing on architecture and design so that we learn to do more with less. Transforming himself from an introvert to an extrovert, and not letting fear get in his way, are marks of his unique and creative life. Check out his designs on YouTube – Environments by Rex .

Maren  grew up on a farm with pride in her Viking heritage, taught herself to play the piano because she hated lessons, and supports herself while a full-time student. But more impressive is how she learned, after a traumatic experience, to reclaim her voice and just keep going.

When Keith instructs you to cultivate and keep a positive attitude, it's best to listen. He's used that lesson to survive brain surgery, lose 200 pounds, and defeat three different cancers. Just don't follow him if he decides to jump into Boston Harbor.

Angel  is a digital nomad and an international traveler who has mastered the art of teaching French even to the most linguistically challenged. But his superpower – in addition to a perfect quiche – is his ability to detect patterns both for himself and his students.

Jodi  has faced challenges and demonstrated bravery well beyond what most of us have experienced. And yet she lives life with joy and gratitude, with a generous perspective -- that we are always changing, and that we can all do better. She is continuously solving the puzzle of her own life and listening to her will change your day. https://puzzlestoplay.com

Cathy 's road to becoming an official joy healer was not straightforward – she had to navigate her own anxiety and sensitive nature before discovering her purpose was to help women find joy and ease in their lives. Whether planning your trip to Disney or sharing lessons in her Joy Academy ,  Cathy  lives what she believes – the moment you accept your purpose, the universe lines up to deliver.

Ronnie spent 20 years as a police officer, retired as Chief of Police in his Texas town, and is now the author he always wanted to be. He made a difference by catching the bad guys, and now he is living his message – no matter how farfetched the dream, take a chance.

Bernie is my new guru. He describes himself as disciplined because at 82 he still he walks 45 flights of stairs a day, but his more impressive attribute is his ability to simplify the wisdom he shares as a life coach. As Bernie  says, we have only the present moment in time to make a choice – past regrets are in the quicksand of time, and the future is anybody's guess – but free will gives you the...

She's collaborated with famous musicians, but her greatest reward is working with her students – from 17 to 70. Connie has had a variety of experiences, including being a chef in the military, but her love of music and performing is her constant – along with her rule to count her blessings every day.

If you are ever invited to a party hosted by Donna, you can be confident that she will make sure your needs are met. She is focused on making a connection, creating a supportive environment, and learning your love language. Even if she never gets the nerve to jump out of an airplane, I know she will make an impact.

RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 2 — What Would You Do with an Extra 2 Hours? It's August, which is my birthday month and my favorite time of year to relax. So I'm still in the reflecting and revising phase of Curious Navel — which means another look back episode — with a different question this time. Before we get to that I hope you listened to my 100th episode . It was a very special one for me s...

RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 1 — What Are You Most Afraid Of? It's hard to believe but it's been 2 years since the birth of Curious Navel. And yes, it sounds odd, but I would call it a birth because there's been growth and change since those first episodes. And like dealing with a child, I'm never quite sure what will happen – a guest might be reluctant or eager to share, they may be challenged...

I am certain I have not interviewed someone who comes close to having the variety of experiences that Jim has had. From touring with a famous punk band to running a business, to power lifting, to becoming an international star as Lord Humongous, Jim is hyper-focused and enthusiastic about all of it. You won't regret taking this ride with  Tank .

Roger does something every day for the sole purpose of sharing some beauty and, hopefully, lifting someone up and providing solace or encouragement. He is grateful for everyone he meets and is most proud that he had the courage to get out of his car on one life-changing afternoon.

Robbie  is a young music teacher with an old soul, who adores his grandparents and polish pastries. And if, after listening to our conversation, you have not packed up your bags to travel to the nearest Polka festival, please reconsider as you might be missing out on something that could change your life.