Riffin' About Life with Brian R. King, MSW

What happens when you stop playing it safe and finally bet on your own brain? In this inspiring conversation, bestselling author J.D. Barker joins Brian to unpack how he walked away from a “respectable” corporate career to become a full-time novelist. They dive deep into the creative mind, autism, ghostwriting, marriage, rejection, and the myth of the perfect first draft. J.D. doesn’t just tell gr...

In this refreshingly honest episode, Brian sits down with nurse, coach, and self-care advocate Jenny Lytle for a real-talk riff on stress, boundaries, connection, and why the simplest tools often make the biggest difference. Jenny opens up about her journey from chronic over-giver to intentional caretaker of her own needs—and why redefining “self-care” might be the most radical thing we can do. Th...

What does it take to keep showing up with compassion when life keeps breaking your heart? In this moving conversation, Julie Barth joins Brian to share a journey marked by profound challenge—and the quiet courage it takes to turn that pain into a force for good. From raising a daughter with a rare condition to rebuilding life after deep personal loss, Julie opens up about what it means to choose m...

What if the key to a calmer life wasn’t more control—but clearer values? In this thought‑provoking conversation, Brian and Dr. Chris Wyatt explore the power of kindness, listening, and self‑honesty as guiding principles for navigating both autism and everyday life. Chris shares how logic, empathy, and structure help him balance family, academia, and the unpredictable nature of being human. It’s a...

What if accessibility wasn't just about ramps and doorways—but relationships, resilience, and reimagining how we include each other? In this conversation, Jenna Udenberg joins Brian to explore what it really means to advocate for a more accessible world. From her early diagnosis to becoming a leader in inclusive design and disability education, Jenna shares how frustration became fuel—and how...

In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Brian speaks with Michelle Michelle Choairy—a medical sales professional turned special needs advocate—about the emotional journey of raising a child with a rare genetic condition. Michelle shares her son’s diagnosis story, how it shifted her perspective on parenting, and the THRIVE framework she now uses to support other families raising complex kids....

What happens when life pushes you to your emotional limit, and instead of snapping—you write a novel? In this deeply moving episode, Brian sits down with Canadian author Mila Maxwell for an honest, soul-searching conversation about identity, vulnerability, and the healing power of storytelling. Mila opens up about growing up with a sister who has cerebral palsy, navigating emotions she didn’t alwa...

In this heartwarming and humorous episode, Brian chats with author and crafter Julie Rowe about how choosing joy, even in the face of life’s toughest moments, can transform not only your day—but others' as well. From caregiving and creativity to surviving wildfires with humor and grace, Julie shares powerful stories that remind us of the profound impact of small kindnesses and the importance o...

When Brian and Stella reunited for their long-overdue conversation, it wasn’t just a catching-up session; it was a masterclass in vulnerability, lineage, and emotional leadership disguised as a podcast interview. The episode opened like an old friendship picking up mid-sentence. No awkward preamble. Just immediate warmth. “Oh my God, it’s been forever,” Brian said, grinning through the mic. “Ages,...

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with my longtime friend, Carrie Capes, whose life embodies the power of action and the transformative impact of authentic connection. Carrie opens up about her journey as the mother of Max, a young man with multiple disabilities including being nonverbal and hearing-impaired. Facing challenges that would overwhelm many, Carrie discovered the profound heali...

Join Brian R. King, MSW, and Nicole Tuxbury for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about the power of books, the importance of practicing gratitude, and the journey of overcoming self-doubt. Nicole shares her personal experiences and challenges, including her neurodivergence and the five-year journey to publish her first book. They discuss how practicing gratitude can transform self-perceptio...

In this heartfelt and enlightening episode, Heather Clark shares her powerful journey of breaking free from the generational curses of reactive parenting. Heather dives into her struggles with Reynaud's syndrome, the warmth she finds in summertime, and the stark contrast to her Canadian upbringing. She opens up about her determination to parent differently, highlighting her transformative journey...

In this heartwarming and deeply insightful episode, Amy Thurman sits down with Brian R. King, MSW, for a candid conversation about the challenges and triumphs of living with chronic illnesses. Brian opens up about his personal journey, sharing the emotional complexities of dealing with a herniated disc and the limitations it imposes on his life. Despite these hurdles, Brian's story is one of resil...

In this heartfelt and engaging episode, two friends, CiCi and Brian, reconnect after a long time apart. Their conversation navigates the intricacies of life changes, values, and personal growth. CiCi shares her recent journey back home after years away, revealing the emotional and transformative impact of the visit. From the challenges of reuniting with family to the poignant moments with her gran...

From Tattoos to Triumph: Unveiling Stories of Resilience and Healing with Jaimie Lynn ValentineIn this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Brian R. King, MSW, and Jaimie Lynn Valentine delve into personal stories of resilience, healing, and transformation. From discussing their shared experiences with ADHD and autism to the profound impact of their tattoos, they explore themes of overcoming trau...

In this episode, Rachel Luke and Brian R. King engage in a deep and heartfelt discussion about personal growth, emotional authenticity, and the challenges and rewards of self-discovery. She reflects on the importance of play and maintaining a childlike curiosity even in adulthood, which she believes helps counteract the mundanity often felt by adults, especially parents. Brian shares his own strug...

Episode Overview Join us for a heartfelt conversation about what it really means to be human beyond diagnoses and labels. Alex talks about growing up in a military family, moving every two years, and how a life of constant transition shaped a mindset of embracing change and staying curious. We talk about savoring each moment, finding joy in the journey instead of obsessing over the destination, an...