The Podcast for Real-Life Heroines

In this warm, reflective, and deeply moving episode, Susanna talks with Alyson Shelton about the power of storytelling, reclaiming our voices, and the quiet courage it takes to believe our stories are worth telling. An award-winning screenwriter, essayist, and editor, Alyson shares the origin story of her beloved Instagram Live series, Where I'm From — inspired by George Ella Lyon's iconic poem of...

In this joyful, heartfelt, and inspiring episode, Susanna talks with Rhayne Thomas about following your passions, embracing what makes you unique, and finding ways to bring light into the lives of others. A blues singer, actor, author, breast cancer survivor, and lifelong advocate, Rhayne shares the remarkable story behind her movement, PrunesAreSexy! , and how a childhood love of prunes evolved i...

In this thoughtful and expansive episode, Susanna talks with John P. Schuster about what it truly means to answer your deepest calling and the inner work required to live it. Drawing from decades of experience as a coach, teacher, and author, John shares how his work has evolved from traditional coaching into what he calls “coaching from the mystic core,” a practice rooted in spirituality, presenc...

In this insightful episode, Susanna sits down with conflict resolution educator and content creator Shannon Thompson, who shares her transformative journey from education to facilitating meaningful conversations around conflict. Shannon discusses her passion for making complex conflict dynamics accessible through practical communication tools and her experience in mediating high-stakes discussions...

In this thoughtful and expansive episode, Susanna talks with interdisciplinary artist and embodied listening practitioner Wenlin Tan about the deeper meaning of listening and how it can transform the way we relate to one another and to the natural world. Wenlin shares how her path has woven together psychology, behavioral health, participatory art, and ecological awareness, leading her to develop...

In this imaginative and heartfelt episode, Susanna talks with Wendy Ulmer about bravery, creativity, and the courage to follow unexpected downloads. Wendy shares stories of the life leaps that shaped her journey, from driving alone across the country on what she calls her “Courage Quest,” to reading a deeply personal story at her father’s funeral, to sending a manuscript onto a slush pile that wou...

In this rich and moving episode, Susanna talks with Annie Schneiderman Valliere about legacy, calling, and the power of remembering the women who came before us. Annie shares her own Heroine’s Journey alongside the extraordinary life and influence of her great-aunt, Rose Schneiderman, a pivotal leader in the American labor and women’s rights movements. She also reflects on growing up with the pres...

In this heartfelt episode, Susanna talks with Rev. Holly Reid about the long, persistent call that led her from decades of nursing into full-time ministry. Holly shares how a quiet inner tapping became impossible to ignore, the financial and emotional hurdles she faced in midlife, and the transformative experiences that shaped her work in prison hospice and pastoral care. Her story is one of coura...

In this illuminating episode, Susanna talks with Leslie Parker, a pelvic floor physical therapist and author of The Art of Control: A Woman’s Guide to Bladder Care . With more than 25 years of experience, Leslie has helped countless women regain confidence and control by addressing one of the most common yet least discussed issues: urinary incontinence. In this conversation, she shares her persona...

In this inspiring episode, Susanna sits down with Ellen Webster to explore her extraordinary journey of gratitude, resilience, and buoyant living. At 56, Ellen set out on what seemed like the improbable goal of handwriting 10,000 thank you notes. What began as a personal practice of appreciation blossomed into a viral story featured on Good Morning America, the Today Show, and beyond. Ellen shares...

In this moving episode, Susanna sits down with Creighton Taylor to explore her deeply personal journey through decades of depression, healing, and self-discovery. From navigating the early signs of mental illness in her youth to undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as an adult, Creighton offers a brave and honest account of what it means to live with chronic depression while still showing up...

In this eye-opening episode, Susanna sits down with writer and artist Christine Richards to talk about the power of noticing, the joy of writing letters, and how paying attention to life’s small moments can lead to big shifts. Christine shares her heroine’s journey from running a successful graphic design business to pursuing her love of writing, creating books, and cultivating a practice of mindf...

In this heartfelt episode, Susanna sits down with artist and educator Sara Wells to talk about listening to your inner voice, embracing change, and following your creative calling. From a fulfilling career in elementary education to building her own art studio and launching a business, Sara shares how she answered the call to live a more authentic and inspired life. Through setbacks and triumphs,...

In this deeply heartfelt episode, Susanna sits down with artist, writer, and spiritual seeker Alexsondra Tomasulo for an inspiring conversation about loss, resilience, and the power of creative and spiritual transformation. Alexsondra shares how grief became a profound teacher in her life following the sudden loss of her husband, and how rituals, writing, and even cold ocean swims helped her recon...

In this rich and inspiring conversation, Susanna welcomes Dr. Carol S. Pearson, acclaimed author, thought leader, and expert on archetypal development, to explore how understanding archetypes can support and shape your heroine’s journey. Drawing from decades of research and her own experiences, Carol shares how archetypes live inside each of us and how they show up when we face challenges, transit...

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Susanna sits down with Lael Couper Jepson, writer, speaker, coach, and founder of SheChanges. Lael brings her signature boldness and wisdom to a conversation about the urgency of embracing change, the importance of honoring our inner voice, and why waiting is overrated. She challenges conventional beliefs about transformation, power, and leadership,...

In this enlightening episode, Susanna sits down with artist, animal communicator, and lifelong explorer Kat G. Taylor. From navigating life with undiagnosed ADHD to embracing her artistry and developing an intuitive connection with animals, Kat shares the many twists and turns of her heroine’s journey. Now in her seventies, she continues to stretch herself creatively, proving that the journey of s...

In this inspiring episode, Susanna sits down with Kim Lloyd, a multi-talented personal trainer, author, and stand-up comedian. Kim shares her inspiring journey from working in a conventional gym to launching her own business, Kim Lloyd Fitness. She delves into the challenges of taking the leap into self-employment, the lessons learned from battling cancer, and the importance of aligning personal v...

In this powerful episode, Susanna interviews Sheila Humphreys, a pioneer in STEM diversity and inclusion. Sheila shares her 40-year journey at UC Berkeley, where she championed initiatives to increase opportunities for marginalized groups in engineering and computer science. From navigating systemic challenges to fostering trust and mentorship, Sheila reflects on the profound impact of her work. H...

In this episode, Susanna sits down with Libby Margolis-Pineo, a fearless entrepreneur and travel writer whose deep love for Italy led her to create a thriving business importing Italian-made goods. Libby shares her story of reinvention, beginning with her "free-range" childhood, her life-changing first trip to Italy, and the small, bold steps that helped her turn a passion into a fulfilling ventur...

In this podcast episode, Susanna Liller interviews Cig Harvey, a British-born artist and writer living in Maine. Cig shares her insights on using large-format color photography and creative non-fiction to explore sensory experiences and emotions. They discuss Cig’s personal Heroine’s Journey, the significance of paying attention to everyday moments, and the deep emotional connections found in natu...

In this inspiring episode, Susanna interviews Gail Larsen, a transformational speaking coach and author of Transformational Speaking:   If You Want to Change the World, Tell a Better Story . Gail shares her journey of finding her voice and helping others do the same, discussing the power of transformational speaking and the importance of trusting your inner wisdom. She dives into the importan...

In this heartfelt episode, Susanna interviews Barbara Babkirk, a master career counselor and dear friend. Barbara shares her 30-year journey of helping individuals navigate career transitions, emphasizing the importance of listening to both the heart and head when making life decisions. Their conversation touches on Barbara’s upcoming retirement, her unexpected new passion for vintage costume jewe...

In this enlightening episode, Susanna hosts a heartfelt conversation with Dawna Markova, a visionary author and speaker renowned for her insights on creativity and self-leadership. Reflecting on her pivotal moments and the wisdom gained from her mentors, Dawna highlights the importance of cultivating courage and resilience in navigating life’s challenges. She explores the intersection of creativit...

In this uplifting episode, Susanna Liller interviews Dr. Gerry Ollila, a dedicated family practitioner and aesthetic physician who started her own practice at the age of 50. Dr. Ollila shares her journey of taking one step at a time, the influence of her mother’s advice, and the importance of self-trust and faith. She discusses the challenges and rewards of establishing her practice and emphasizes...