Curious Navel

She can date her Pennsylvania roots to the 1700's and has learned to make everything from rustic apple pie to formal picnic punch. But I was most impressed by  Denise 's enthusiasm for her marketing business and her passion to learn something new every day. She trusts her instincts and isn't afraid to take risks – whether in the stock market or at a karaoke bar.

Michelle brings compassion and dedication to her role as Executive Director of a nonprofit that supports families of children with cancer – whether financially or emotionally. But equally impressive is Michelle's mindful outlook, reminding us that worry doesn't help what we can't control. I was honored that she shared her wisdom – as well as her secret desire to tap her heels three times. Pediatri...

Lisa is incredibly honest and brave, sharing that she is a survivor of domestic abuse who found the strength to transform her life. As a nutrition and wellness coach, comfortable speaking in front of a crowd of a thousand people, she speaks her truth and gives a voice to others. Her message is inspiring – if all you can do today is breathe, stay curious about tomorrow.

I've never met an aggressive introvert, but if I ever do, I hope it's  Brad . He's an enthusiastic and upbeat guy and when he says that anything is possible, I believe it.

Damon  is industrious and intentional, building on his knowledge of computers and search engines to create a successful business. But his most impressive achievement is his dedication to doing things to make others happy – without any recognition.

Speaking to  Carol is like catching up with your favorite neighbor. She lives on 40 acres and loves her privacy, but she's bold enough to knock on strangers' doors and learn how to ride a gift horse (you'll have to listen to understand!)

I don't believe I have spoken with someone who has made a larger transformation in his life than  Angelo . He has refused to be defined by his trauma and instead has created a ministry of love and acceptance, teaching his family and strangers alike that anyone can take back their narrative and find strength.

Montana born and bred,  Jesse moved his family to Portugal post-pandemic, even though they didn't speak Portuguese. He is brave and independent and has always turned a "can't" into a "can." He's written several books about big data, but when his novel is released, I will be among the first to order it.

Ashley  surprised me – she let me pry a little and was incredibly open about overcoming anxiety and learning to accept help as a very young mom. But at the same time her compassion and curiosity compelled her to ask me the same questions I was asking her! I'm not giving away my answers here – you will have to listen.

Courtney  is a pediatric sleep coach – aka magician and healer. And she is a hero, having survived an incredible challenge. Most important, she is an inspiration. Listening to her will give you one of your "awesomes" for the day (and of course you have to listen to get the reference.) Tiny Transitions Child & Adult Sleep Consulting

I don't know what fascinates me more about  Eric  – the fact that he is an accomplished jazz musician, admired by Dave Brubeck, or the fact that he is a documentary filmmaker focusing on paranormal activity, and verifying the existence of the Beast of Bray Road. Listen for a treat….if you dare! Eric Mintel Quartet Bucks County Paranormal Investigations

Jerry  worked his way up from overseeing mustard to opening one of the first small town McDonalds (a "Mini Mac"). He is steadfast, hardworking, and content – a rare combination – though he wouldn't mind spending more time fishing (not catching.)

Jessica may know a lot about air conditioner compressors, but she took advantage of lockdown to learn something even better – how to smoke meat and make the perfect soup. She learned how to turn a shy frightened kid into a person who will try new things and not care what other people think. Whether she opens her Little Z's Café, or stars in a musical, I have no doubt she will succeed.

From Uganda and Kenya, to S. Korea, and across the United States,  Sari  has embraced the value of being a stranger and respecting differences. She's inclined to say yes (strategically, of course), and we will all be grateful that she has said yes to her new venture – addressing climate change with humor, and suggesting easy action items (HINT: CHANGE YOUR TOILET PAPER!)

I learned a lot from  Chris – not only the meaning of Power Sports and Geocaching – but also the importance of simply doing what we do each day and staying grounded.  Chris  stays present and positive, and open to new experiences – just don't ask him to go into the ocean past his knees.

Amanda  turned her social work background into a role as CEO of an agency that gives everyone a family "no matter what". I was equally impressed by her strength to always try even when she didn't think she could, and her  adorable obsession with everything noodles and potatoes. Amanda Stanley

Angela is the girl you wish you've been friends with since high school. She's first-generation Sicilian, with a secret recipe for the best meatballs you've ever tasted, and she has a sense of humor and energy you would want to be around even if she weren't an amazing cook.

My conversation with  Philip has no precedent – I didn't ask many questions because his story was so compelling that it was most important that I simply listen. He lives the lessons he conveys, that pain may teach you a lesson, but pride will let you learn. With compassion and love, he is making a difference, one life at a time.

Denise has a strength and a spirit that you will not forget. She changed her family history not only by graduating high school but by becoming a college professor. As Denise tells it, she is an ordinary person who, because of circumstances and resilience, did extraordinary things.

It was a treat to speak to Allison – she was bold enough to open her own physical therapist practice to create a loving and safe space for her patients, and to achieve the perfect sourdough starter during lockdown. She was delightful and I know she will be a success whether she opens a café, or finds a way for Tom Selleck to star in her movie.

Glenn's dedication to spreading the love he derives from his faith is inspiring, as is his journey, from private investigator and auctioneer to running a garden and mowing ministry for his church. His unerring faith is remarkable and I'm certain that you will be moved by his sincerity.

She's a dancer, meditation instructor, brave enough to walk on hot coals, adventurous enough to learn TikTok, loving grandmother, proud mother, and one of the loveliest and kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet. She wants to be remembered as having said yes to life, and I'm certainly glad she said yes to Curious Navel!

Natasha fell into marketing and her characteristic humor and willingness to learn by doing (aka fake it till you make it) helped her develop a passion for her career. She is charming, kind, and generous – she is even willing to treat me to lobster and spaghetti if I visit her in the Netherlands.

With tremendous grace and humility, Pete is the sole caregiver to his father who suffers from a debilitating disease. But that has not stopped Pete from continuing his journey to improve his own health – a year ago he could barely ride around his neighborhood and now he can easily bike 50 miles! Pete is remarkable and I look forward to making "gravy" using his family secret.

Sally may describe herself as traditional – a devoted wife, mom, and homemaker – but she has achieved success on her own terms and found the strength to channel her inner Lola after her husband passed away. She has a big heart and a sweet sense of humor, and I hope she gets to meet Donny Osmond.