What if one of the greatest ways we learn to understand each other… is through story?
In this episode, Candace reflects on a moment from Open Book with Jenna Bush Hager, where author Emily Henry shares that the heart of fiction is learning to understand people who aren’t like you. That idea opens a doorway into a deeper conversation about empathy, perspective, and the quiet ways books can shape who we become.
Candace shares a thought Emily shared, how fiction invites us to enter a story carrying all our assumptions about the world — and then gently challenges them. Through characters, inner worlds, and lived experiences, we’re offered intimate glimpses into people’s traumas, upbringings, personalities, and choices. We begin to see not just what people do, but why.
Candace shares how fiction has been one of her greatest teachers — a place where empathy is practiced, perspectives are softened, and understanding is expanded. While nonfiction has its own wisdom, fiction holds a unique magic: the ability to change how we see the world by helping us truly see each other.
This episode is an invitation to reflect on the stories that have shaped you — the books that became part of you, the characters who cracked your heart open, and the ways reading may have quietly changed your world.
Because sometimes, the most profound growth doesn’t come from being told what to think…
It comes from stepping into someone else’s story and letting it change you.
💗 If you’re feeling the vibes… Subscribe, rate & review to help us grow this sweet little soul space!
🎧 Let’s stay connected: Follow along on Instagram @candacedanielledunaway
If you’ve been touched by the magic shared here and want to support the podcast, you can now buy me a coffee ☕️ - Thank you for supporting this little corner of joy.
💛 buymeacoffee.com/candacedunaway
If you are ready to dive in and start Growing A Grateful Heart you can get yourself a copy of the gratitude journal here:
Growing A Grateful Heart- A Daily Gratitude Journal
Candace Dunaway is the host of The Spiritual Cupcake Podcast, a heart-centered space for healing, growth, and high-vibe living. She’s also a teacher, a nature lover, and a creative soul who finds deep joy in life’s simplest moments.
Candace sees the world through rainbow-colored glasses—always searching for the silver linings, even in life’s stormy skies. For her, happiness isn’t a far-off destination, but something woven into the everyday magic of life.
Her love for the outdoors inspired The Mild Side of Wild, a video series that encourages others to step outside and reconnect with nature’s wisdom—a free gift that’s always available.
Whether she’s wandering through the woods, recording a podcast episode, or laughing with a stranger-turned-friend, Candace thrives on meaningful connection. She treasures hearing people’s stories and perspectives, especially when they come from unexpected paths.
Forever dreaming, always creating, she’s endlessly exploring new ideas and projects. Guided by wonder, curiosity, and the belief that beauty is everywhere, She’s here to connect, to let go, and to expand—one inspired moment at a time.
