SolFul Connections

In this episode of SolFul Connections, I sit down with AlexFabio. From his roots in a vibrant multicultural family to a life steeped in music and performance since the age of 12, Alex has spent his life exploring creativity, identity, and what it means to live authentically. Our conversation moves through the role of heritage, the power of spirituality, and the winding path of a performer who’s un...

In this episode of SolFul Connections , I talk with Gina Rubel, CEO of a successful marketing agency, trusted leader, and longtime friend, about navigating seasons of change. Gina shares what it’s like to balance the demands of runninga company while experiencing shifts in her family and personal life. From the bittersweet moments of watching her children step into their dreams, to coping with los...

In this episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Amanda takes the podcast 'on the road' to connect with Marion Callahan, host and producer of Talking in Transit as Marion connects with people waiting for a bus. The conversation explores the journey of a journalist who seeks to capture authentic stories from everyday people. Through interviews conducted in transit, insights on the importa...

After years in a painful narcissistic relationship, Ana-Maria reached a breaking point... and then a turning point. In this heartfelt conversation, she opens up about her journey through loss, healing, and rediscovering the gifts that had been buried under years of self-doubt. Ana-Maria’s story is one of courage, inspiration, and light. Her resilience reminds us that no matter how dark things may...

What happens when you step away from a career you’ve loved, and do it earlier than most? My guest, Dr. Pam Ginsberg, a psychologist who recently retired , joins me for a candid, funny, and soul-stirring conversation about what retirement really feels like, why change is never just about what you leave behind, and how society’s expectations can shape (and sometimes limit) our views on aging. We tal...

My mom won’t come on my podcast. She says her response time is slower now, and she wouldn’t want to hear her own voice. But my mom's voice is in everything. It can be found among my thoughts, my values, my humor, my work, and my heart. In this deeply personal episode, I share some of the lessons I’ve learned from my mother, who continues to teach me with wit, wisdom, and warmth. My mother is irrev...

Welcome to Not That You Asked, the episode of the SolFul Connections podcast where unpopular opinions are served up on a platter that you didn't request. You're welcome. ;-) Amanda Soler shares bold, often contrarian takes on culture, life, and human behavior, not to spark outrage, but to remind us that we can think differently and still get along. Connections are possible when we are auth...

What do you get when you mix childhood wonder, artistic bravery, and a whole lot of cardboard? You get Holly Layman, a soulful, wildly creative artist who’s turning an ordinary material into extraordinary expression. In this episode, Holly shares her journey as an artist who works in the unexpected medium of cardboard, crafting large-scale, one-of-a-kind pieces that don’t just catch the eye, they...

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Mark Lund, MD, FCCP shares his unique journey from critical care physician to leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of skills learned in the ICU that can be applied to business and personal relationships. He discusses the human side of medicine, the necessity of trust in leadership, and the critical role of organizational culture. Dr. Lund also reflect...

In this episode of SolFul Connections , Amanda sits down with Lexy, an extraordinary woman whose life is a study in contrasts and courage. Lexy is a weightlifter, strength trainer, artist, poet, and writer who is actively healing from a past that contains a fair share of trauma. Lexy shares how she turned to strength training not just as a form of physical empowerment, but as a metaphor for reclai...

In this special birthday episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Amanda connects with her lifelong best friend, Roseanne, to reflect on the magic, mess, and meaning of life at this point in the journey. We talk about how we’ve changed, how we’ve stayed the same, what we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and how powerful it is to maintain a friendship that spans decades. From elementary schoo...

What happens when a single moment changes everything? In this powerful episode, Amanda connects with Gregg Ward , a man who knows the lifelong ripple effects of tragedy. As a young man, Gregg was involved in a car accident that took the life of his girlfriend. It’s a story he shares publicly in his TEDx talk, Confessions of an Accidental Killer, and one that continues to shape how he lives, leads,...

What if a visit to the dentist could feel less like a chore — and more like a ritual of self-care? In this episode of SolFul Connections , holistic dentist Dr. Ekta Sem shares her innovative vision for transforming the dental experience. Drawing on ancient healing traditions, modern technology, and her own personal journey, she’s reimagining what it means to care for your smile, as well as your wh...

In this soulful episode of SolFul Connections , photographer Kristen Kidd shares how her camera became a bridge, not just to art, but to meaning, memory, and deep emotional connection. From capturing the chaos and beauty of family dynamics to preserving the tender bonds between people and their pets, Kristen’s journey is a reminder that behind every image is a story — and behind every story is a h...

In this powerful return episode, Dr. Jennifer Gardella, entrepreneur, educator, author, speaker, and social media consultant, joins SolFul Connections once again, but this time with a whole new layer to her story. When Jen first appeared on SolFul Connections , she shared her courageous journey of surviving and escaping domestic violence. Since then, she’s continued to rise becoming a Goldman Sach...

Less small talk. More soul talk. Welcome to SolFul Connections , where host Amanda Soler sits down with artists, dreamers, doers, healers — and everyday humans — for real conversations about what it means to be alive. From life lessons to laughter, vulnerability to purpose, these are the stories that remind us we’re not alone. This is where life’s mess meets its meaning. Let’s connect.

Big things are happening at SolFul Connections ! In this short solo episode, I’m sharing a few important updates: We’re officially launching Season 6 — and it’s all about leveling up. Our season opener drops Wednesday, June 4 , featuring the incredible Dr. Jennifer Gardella . From now on, new episodes will be released every Wednesday instead of Tuesday — to align with how I create and give you the...

In this special Replay episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Christy Holland and Amanda explore the themes of personal transitions, the power of reinvention, and the importance of mindfulness and somatics in navigating life's challenges. They discuss the significance of emotional awareness, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the need for support in personal growth. Christy shares her ex...

In this SolFul conversation, Jodi Banks, a financial advisor, shares her journey and unexpected career path to becoming a successful financial advisor. She discusses the importance of listening, overcoming personal challenges, and the emotional aspects of finance. Jodi emphasizes the significance of self-confidence, the lessons learned from parenting, and the inspiration she finds in her relations...

In this Flashback Friday episode of SolFul Connections author, speaker, and holistic life coach Trina Stutzman talks about finding her voice and a path toward knowing, pleasing, and heeding her inner voice. In this conversation, Trina discusses the importance of self-worth, the gradual shift from people pleasing to authenticity, and the steps to breaking free from the cycle. Trina emphasizes the j...

What happens when life throws not one, but multiple curveballs? In this powerful episode of SolFul Connections , Kristin Smedley returns to share the next chapter in her extraordinary journey. Kristin’s path was clear. She planned to be a teacher, a mother, and live a life rooted in faith. But life had other plans. Two of her three children were born blind, her marriage dissolved, and she was face...

In this outtake from the SolFul Connections podcast featuring Karen DeHaven, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Karen shares a visual that provides important thinking about the people closest to you. Check out this outtake; then head over to the full podcast to hear more from therapist Karen DeHaven!

In this episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Karen DeHaven, MA, BC-DMT, LPC shares her journey in establishing AHA Studios, a therapeutic and counseling center focused on integrating creative arts into mental health practices. She discusses her background, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of resilience and empathy in her work. The conversation explores the intersection of scie...

In this profound conversation, Richard Paynton, CEO and CTO of Dontech, shares his leadership journey within a family business, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of building relationships and a strong company culture. He shares life and business philosophies, his thoughts on the fragility of life, and the lessons learned from his father's legacy. Richard emphasizes the significance o...

Entrepreneur Amanda Phillips shares her story of how dealing with a chronic illness led to the foundation of her company, Be Well. Amanda has created products to help others on their healing path. She discusses the importance of wellness, both physical and emotional, and emphasizes the need for advocacy in healthcare. Amanda also highlights the psychological impact of her products and the sense of...