MORNING MUGS: Coffee + Journaling, Your A.M. Creative Practice -Fill Your Cup or the World Will

Vandalism explores the blurred line between destruction and expression, asking: when does art become vandalism, and who gets to decide? This episode unpacks how creativity can provoke, disrupt, and challenge what society labels as “good.” This conversation encourages us to reflect on the rules we inherit, the approval we seek, and the ways we limit ourselves based on what others might think. If ar...

In a world obsessed with speed, are we missing life's true lessons? Inspired by Harvard happiness expert Arthur Brooks, this episode explores the Strivers and Seekers Dilemmas. Discover how slowing down can transform your understanding of happiness and success. Learn the difference between chasing achievements and seeking true understanding, and find out how mindful reflection can lead to genu...

Most of us feel overwhelmed by the constant noise and chaos of modern life—and what if the simple act of helping others could be the antidote? In this episode, we explore how small actions, like reaching out or volunteering in your own community, can restore your sense of purpose and lower anxiety—even when the world feels like it’s burning around you. Through the inspiring story of a man saving a...

Most of us move through life on autopilot—choosing stability, staying comfortable, telling ourselves “maybe someday.” This conversation with Meg is a reminder that someday is a decision. After 11 years in the corporate world, Meg chose freedom over predictability and built a life rooted in travel, community, and adventure. From a childhood in the remote wilderness of Idaho and Missouri to the fast...

Finding Balance and Embracing Change: A Reframe on Taking Action In this episode, I explore how perfectionism, self-doubt, and the fear of Ripple effects hold us back from taking action. Through stories about a Chia pet, a Japanese cafe, and insights from psychology and architecture, I share practical ways to shift our mindset and embrace the unpredictable outcomes of our efforts. Key topics: The...

Most of us are unintentionally curating the company we keep digitally and in real life and it’s shaping who we are more than we realize. What if the key to deeper connection isn’t about mastering relationships but just crossing the threshold to invite someone in? In this episode I explore how the simple act of inviting someone into your space – whether physically or virtually – can revolutionize y...

In this episode we’re are taking risks, moving past self doubt and supporting ourselves along the way. With practices inspired by both Carol Dweck and Phil Stutz - this episode provides a much needed mindset shift for all the dreamers and doers out there , plus an actionable journal prompt to get you moving in the direction you’re meant for. If you’re ready for the next step join me at the next jo...

In this episode we dive into the forgotten, abandon goals, and dreams- and put them to rest. We also get into some tough love and ask the hard questions. Your life is a reflection of what you’re willing to do, say, behave, act on …or not. Come take a listen. Until next time be well. For more: follow me on @morningmugspodcast

In this episode we’ll find our way back to hope. With advice from the book -Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier by Harvard Professor @arthurcbrooks. It’s a reminder that optimism is not hope, but that hope lies in the belief that things can get better. This episode offers actions- personal agency - towards a life filled with hope and away from despair .

In this episode we’ll confront the reality of feeling stuck…fear. Often when we want to make the next move but can’t seem to get out of our own way -it’s not because we’re not ready, it’s not because we need more education , experience etc., it’s because we’re scared of failure. “We cannot escape fear. We can only transform it into a companion that accompanies us on all our exciting adventures…” -...

How many pages will be left empty because your process was dampened by doubt and deliberation ? - Rick Rubin In this episode we’ll discuss the illusion of the “ perfect timing”. Reflecting on the creative nudges or whispers that we left behind, and how/when do we lean in to take the leap. Also NEW journal night details: The Lost Draft , Nov. 21st . Check out @morningmugspodcast for more info !

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” — Robert Frost. * excpert from The Road Not Taken In the 80th episode of the Morning Mugs podcast, Kiera discussed the concept of the "road less traveled" and how it can be applied to various aspects of life. She emphasized the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone, practicing...

In this episode Prof. Virginia Horan and I  discuss the changing landscape of education, focusing on the impact of technology, parental involvement, and mental health on students. We talk about the importance of a holistic approach to education, self-care, and time management, and the value of traditional methods combined with technology. We also highlight the need for personal growth, resilience,...

Perhaps that jittery feeling in your stomach isn’t anxiety, but determination. Lisa Feldman Barrett (@LFeldmanBarrett), a professor of psychology at Northeastern University In this episode, we explore the reality that comfort does not equate growth. Sometimes we need an anxiety reframe as Lisa Feldman Barrett suggests. " This isn't anxiety- this is determination." Rather than perceiv...

"You are not responsible for the version of you that exists in other people's minds."- Tiny Buddha In this episode, we explore the very human nature -of looking for the approval of others. Over time our need to belong to the pack has evolved into our need to feel validation and acceptance of others for our own self -worth. When we live a life based on the whims of other people's...

“Rather than waste your time being stressed over making the right decision, make the decision right.” -Dr. Ellen Langer In this episode we'll challenge the "inner critic" by learning new ways to invite her in, and communicate with her. Start by being aware of the voice and practicing ways to prevent the "inner critic" from driving the bus of our lives. You are not your &quo...

In this episode, we'll explore the possibility of stepping outside of how you "see" the world. Freedom comes with allowing yourself to open the aperture and reframe how you wish to connect with yourself- about yourself. We often get caught up with the way things are. Here is an invitation to decide what perspectives you wish to keep and which ones are ready for a change.

In this episode we’ll explore the capabilities of vision boarding in creating the life you want. This episode is part of a gathering I hosted which was part of the : Makin Moves Workshop Series

This episode is part of a journal night I hosted - Journaling Reimagined ( why we need to rethink why we journal …or why we don’t ). The focus of this episode is to invite reflection for clarity- to get you closer to the life you want to live.

Beginning this episode with a huge thank you to all who contributed towards the @mondaysatracine fundraiser. I am incredibly grateful to be able to support this amazing organization. The money collected from the last journal night was donated directly to @mondaysatracine raising close to $450.00! In this episode, you will get an inside peak of the last journal night: Why We Write- Tapping In ( Oce...

To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe. -Anatole France In this episode, we explore the "gray" areas of our lives. We spend so much time trying to catapult our way out of the no longer, into the change. And we can’t wait to get to the new next. But we spend so much of our time in the space between ‘ no longer and not yet’.  It ma...

Lets begin this year with deep reflection and love.

"Don't you see how much you have to offer? And yet you still settle for less."- Marcus Aurelius In this episode, we look at what keeps us feeling stuck. Often this comes from the doubt that things can't change. We either feel stuck in our circumstances or within ourselves. Good news- you don't have to sit by and settle. We are our most powerful vehicle for change. Neuroplasti...

In this episode, we explore how our thoughts can beat us to the punch. Our bodies react to our thoughts and sometimes those thoughts- are habitual and primed for the stressful season we expect to be in. Although we may not be in a stressful situation at the moment we feel angst -we respond like we are. Our thoughts are too busy concerning themselves with the future to-do's or have-done's....

"Failure is a loaded word."- Ed Catmull, Pixar co-founder In this episode, we explore the importance of fostering creativity and allowing yourself to"fail" . More importantly, allow yourself to dream. We should be curious, we should experiment, and when we do "fail"- consider it information. Reframe "I tried and failed" to "I'm learning and growing&...