Shows
Your Story Matters#84 Embracing Curiosity: A Life of Global Education + PuposeIn this episode, Melissa shares her inspiring journey from traditional education and corporate ambitions to establishing an international homeschooling life and an innovative online business called Curio. Her story highlights the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and prioritizing meaningful experiences over societal expectations.Melissa’s Favorite Book: The Seven Sisters (series) by Lucinda RileyConnect with Melissa: Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedInConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
2026-03-1840 minYour Story Matters#83 From Addiction to Recovery: A Life Transformed with Michael CantwellThis conversation delves into the personal journey of Michael Cantwell as he navigates the challenges of addiction and the transformative experience of hitting rock bottom. He shares his experiences with drinking, legal troubles, and the profound changes he underwent as a result.Michael’s Favorite Book: The Knowledge of the Holy: The Attributes of God: Their Meaning in the Christian Life by A.W. TozerConnect with Michael: Sober Psychology Podcast | Instagram | SpotifyConnect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
2026-03-1144 min
Your Story Matters#82 Finding Meaning in the Mundane with MyndeeIn this episode, Michaela engages in a heartfelt conversation with Myndee, who shares her transformative journey from a strict evangelical upbringing to exploring mysticism and tarot. Myndee discusses the profound impact of losing her husband and how it has shaped her understanding of grief, self-love, and the importance of finding meaning in everyday life. The conversation delves into the myths surrounding tarot, the power of intention, and the significance of creating rituals in daily life. Myndee emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and the need to envision a better future, encouraging listeners to embrace the magic in their lives.
2026-03-0436 min
Your Story Matters#81 Navigating IBS with Erin MailloIn this episode, Michaela speaks with Erin Maillo about her transformative journey from California to Italy, her struggles with IBS, and her eventual transition into coaching. Erin shares her experiences of cultural differences, health challenges, and the importance of self-awareness in personal growth. The conversation highlights the complexities of balancing motherhood, career, and health, and how Erin's journey has inspired her to help other women facing similar challenges.Connect with Erin | https://healingheribs.com/Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram
2026-02-2540 min
Your Story Matters#80 The Spark of Curiosity + Leadership in Personal Development with Tracey GeeIn this episode, Michaela and Tracey explore the journey of self-discovery, the importance of curiosity, and the nature of leadership. Tracey shares her personal story of navigating life transitions, overcoming limiting beliefs, and the process of writing her book. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and the value of allowing oneself to rest and reflect during periods of change.Tracey’s Favorite Book: Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall KimmererConnect with Tracey: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn...
2026-02-1841 min
Your Story Matters#79 The Truth About Pleasure with Juliette KaramanIn this enlightening conversation, Juliette Karaman shares her journey of self-discovery, trauma, and healing. She discusses the importance of awareness in understanding one's body and emotions, the significance of pleasure in life, and how BDSM can serve as a tool for conscious touch and intimacy. Juliette emphasizes the need for emotional safety and communication in relationships, and she introduces her innovative techniques like 'Touch Base' to help individuals reconnect with themselves. The discussion culminates in Juliette's aspirations to help children affected by trauma and her resources for those seeking to explore intimacy and self-awareness....
2026-02-1150 min
Your Story Matters#78 Healing Yourself: A Journey Beyond Medicine with Sarah DawkinsIn this enlightening conversation, Sarah Dawkins shares her transformative journey from conventional medicine to holistic healing. She discusses the importance of mindfulness, nutrition, and self-awareness in the healing process, emphasizing that everything is interconnected. Sarah encourages listeners to take control of their health through informed dietary choices and to embrace the power of self-healing. The discussion also touches on the societal conditioning around food and health, the role of anti-nutrients in plants, and the significance of making food enjoyable and nourishing. Sarah's personal experiences and insights provide a roadmap for those seeking to embark on their own healing journeys.
2026-02-0444 min
Your Story Matters#77 Living in the Aftermath of Loss with Lynn Lewis*Disclaimer* this conversation mentions suicide. In this heartfelt conversation, Michaela and Lynn discuss the profound impact of grief and the journey of resilience following the loss of Lynn's son. Lynn shares her personal story of loss, the importance of normalizing conversations about grief, and the ways in which she has chosen to live and thrive in the aftermath. They explore the complexities of grief, especially during holidays, and the significance of self-care and community support. Lynn emphasizes the importance of finding joy amidst sorrow and how she has turned her pain into a purpose...
2026-01-2844 min
Your Story Matters#76 Unlocking the Power of Intuition with Denise PorterIn this enlightening conversation, Denise Porter shares her journey from being an elementary teacher to exploring the realms of energy healing and hypnotherapy. She discusses the challenges of navigating her daughter's anxiety, the importance of intuition, and the power of language in shaping our reality. Denise emphasizes the significance of self-trust, the demystification of hypnotherapy, and the role of patience in personal transformation. The discussion also touches on the science behind energy, the importance of community, and the journey of self-discovery.Denise’s Favorite Book:E-Squared: Nine Do-It-Yourself Energy Experiments That Prove Your Thoughts Cr...
2026-01-2144 min
Your Story Matters#75 Getting Unstuck + Walking in Creative Purpose with Dawn BaumgartnerIn this episode, Michaela and Dawn explore the significance of personal stories, the impact of family dynamics, and the journey through education and mental health challenges. Dawn shares her experiences of navigating life transitions, the importance of community, and the role of self-awareness in personal growth. They discuss the value of mentorship, resources for getting unstuck, and the beauty of recognizing different life seasons. The conversation emphasizes the need for communication, support, and the courage to embrace change.Dawn’s Favorite Books The Enemies of Excellence by Greg Salciccoli15 Minute Commitments to...
2026-01-1450 min
Your Story Matters#74 Kicking Off Season 04In this episode, Michaela Elizabeth kicks off the fourth season of her podcast by reflecting on her journey and the significance of choosing a 'Word of the Year.' She emphasizes the importance of intention and how it can guide personal growth and wellness. Michaela shares her chosen word, 'grounded,' and discusses its meanings and implications for her life moving forward. The episode also highlights the excitement for upcoming guests and the new direction of the podcast, including its presence on YouTube.Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter
2026-01-0708 min
Your Story Matters#73 Year In ReviewIn this episode, I review the third year of Your Story Matters + have some big announcements for 2026! The BIGGEST thank you to all my listeners, this show isn't possible without you.Podcast Survey
2025-11-1921 minYour Story Matters#72 Now What: Create the Clarity to Achieve Your Dreams with Cassandra RosaCassandra Rosa is a certified coach & healer and intuitive business coach. Her mission is to help spiritual entrepreneurs go deep within on their journey to find clarity, conquer their fears and create impactful businesses. She loves to help her clients transform holistically on all levels; the mental, physical and spiritual as that is what helps them create long-lasting results. She is an award-winning author of the book Now What: Create the Clarity to Achieve Your Dreams designed to help people navigate life’s “Now What” moments. Check out her website cassandrarosa.com to see all th...
2025-11-0549 minYour Story Matters#71 Art, Photography + Giving Yourself Permission to Play with Jen SulakJen Sulak is an experimental artist and wedding photographer who loves the connection that still moments bring in our modern times. Over 18 years ago she started the journey of becoming a photographer which has brought her to 2020, the year that started her hyper-niche brand of Weirdo Weddings Photography. This niche speaks to many couples out there looking for acceptance, inclusion and visibility in a saturated wedding industry world. Jen is one of many amazing quirky voices in the industry stepping out to share, collaborate, connect and CREATE with others. We chat about:Discovering...
2025-10-221h 02Your Story Matters#70 The Confident Athlete with Tami MathenyTami Matheny is the owner of Tami Matheny Coaching, a John Maxwell Certified coach, author, speaker, and part of the Jon Gordon Team. As a mental game coach, she works with individuals from all walks of life—not just athletes—to develop confidence, focus, motivation, mental toughness, leadership, teamwork, and more. Driven by a deep passion for helping others, Tami firmly believes that confidence is the cornerstone of success in any area of life. Through her books, one-on-one coaching, webinars, online programs, podcasts, and various resources, she empowers others to build the mental skills nece...
2025-10-0849 minYour Story Matters#69 Creative Resting with Kat JoveyKat Jovey is a speaker, workshop facilitator, and thought partner who helps high-achievers break free from people-pleasing, navigate difficult conversations, and reclaim their confidence without burning out.We talk about:Finding recharge in solitudeImportance of rest + active restCreating as a form of rest + expressionOur obsession with sweets + all things stationaryConnect with Kat: Website | Substack | Instagram | LinkedINConnect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2025-09-241h 07Your Story Matters#68 The Maine Story: Vacation RecapIn this episode, I share about my vacation to Maine; what I did, didn't do, lessons learned + surprises along the way.Topics Covered:Maine's Culinary DelightsEmbracing New Routines + HabitsThe Joy of Reading + YogaReflections on Writing + Personal GrowthThe Importance of Taking a VacationSummer Haven Properties | Facebook + Website Vacation ArticleConnect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website | Free Enneagram Consult
2025-09-1017 min
Towards Eden, an Enneagram Podcast#31 - Enneagram 101: What is an Enneagram 4? with Michaela ElizabethMy awesome Enneagram Four guest is Michaela Elizabeth! Type 4 is known as “The Individualist” or “The Romantic.” Fours are authentic, emotional, unique, and want to find deep meaning in their lives and in the world.Michaela tells us about the Type Four core fears of being ordinary, mundane, or insignificant. I enjoyed what she shared about many Type Fours' love for storytelling - this conversation taught me a lot about Enneagram Four's communication style.Enneagram Four's core desire is to be special, unique, and to have a significant identity. Michaela Elizabeth is a Certifi...
2025-09-011h 00Your Story Matters#67 Mind/Body Connection + Why It Matters with Dr. Brian TierneyDr. Brian Tierney is a somatic psychologist, neuroscience professor, and psychotherapist dedicated to integrative healing. Specializing in trauma resolution, couples therapy, and somatic experiencing, he combines cutting-edge science with timeless practices to create transformative healing experiences.With over two decades of experience working with men’s groups and a deep commitment to family and community, Dr. Tierney adopts a holistic approach to therapy. He is the host of the Boundless Body podcast and the author of the upcoming book Visionary Somatics. Dr. Tierney’s work fuses modern psychology with enduring principles, offering a unique path...
2025-08-2754 minYour Story Matters#66 Rebuilding Hope After Breakup with Ivana CareIvana Care is a Life and Transformation Coach. Her journey into coaching began with her own personal transformation. Like many of the women she found herself facing an impossible choice in a relationship that no longer served her. Leaving meant stepping into the unknown and facing adversity, but it also meant opening doors to new possibilities. Today, Ivana is helping other women finding themselves after separation. She combines her personal experience with powerful tools like guided meditations, energy work, and trauma healing techniques.*Click Ivana’s website link below fo...
2025-08-1354 minYour Story Matters#65 Movement Made Easy with Dr. Sara IonescuDr. Sara Ionescu is a movement coach, board certified family medicine physician, wife, mom of 5, and exercise enthusiast. She is passionate about wellness, preventative care, and exercise and loves to inspire others to move. She strives to stay physically active daily as she sees massive physical and mental health benefits with this and wants to help, inspire and encourage others to do the same!We talk about:Dr. Sara’s journey to medicine + parenthoodFinding alignment + purposeRedefining exercise + self-careCreating sustainable movement habits
2025-07-3048 minYour Story Matters#64 Trauma Healing + Embodied Presence with Gulara Vincent*brief mention of sexual trauma/rape*Gulara Vincent is a University Law lecturer turned successful healer with a thriving business. She supports healers and therapists in unlocking their power as a healer, releasing money blocks, and feeling good enough to speak up and market their services. Last year, she created a practitioner training based on her Intergenerational Trauma healing method and sold out two intakes with 20 practitioners each. Gulara is an author of two memoirs about her experiences of growing up in Soviet Azerbaijan.
2025-07-1642 minYour Story Matters#63 Competition, Collaboration + Contentment with Jon GoehringJon Goehring is a voice over and audio production professional in Rochester, NY. He started his career as a full time radio personality, but left to pursue his own business. Early on Jon struggled immensely (business is always harder than it looks!) but had a game changing breakthrough when he came to terms with the fact that he was competing with everyone in his industry rather than finding collaborative opportunities. His error was a scarcity mindset, and the solution has been an abundance mindset. Jon now enjoys working full time for himself producing audio c...
2025-07-0252 minYour Story Matters#62 Mini Summer Series: Recap, Reflections + Birthday WishesHappy Summer!In today's episode I recap the year, share a few updates, pause for reflection + have a few thoughts about my upcoming birthday.Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website | Free Enneagram Consult
2025-06-1816 minYour Story Matters#61 Mini Summer Series: Music, Podcasting + Books with Diane RobertsDiane Roberts is a worship leader, book lover, small town explorer and podcaster based in NE Ohio. She was my former co-host on Don't Worry You're Enough Podcast + we sit down + chat about all the things that have happened since we ended our show. We talk about:Personal growth + new venturesEvolving as podcastersFinding your voice in music + lifeBooks!Book Mention: The Nightingale by Kristin HannahSong Mention: I Speak Jesus by Charity Gayle
2025-06-0444 minYour Story Matters#60 Lost in the Overwhelm + How to Heal Through It with Tina DjureticTina Djuretic is a Canadian author living in Vancouver. She was raised by strict, religious parents who isolated her from the rest of the world. What followed were three toxic relationships that nearly destroyed her.While writing her memoir she was able to find forgiveness; for herself and her abusers. This taught her a lot about generational trauma, narcissists, and putting up healthy boundaries. It's Tina's goal to share her story with anyone finding themselves in a similar situation, and to educate people on the subject of toxic relationships, healing, spirituality, and not just...
2025-05-2149 minYour Story Matters#59 Motherhood, Blogging + Food Preferences with The Mint Chip MamaStacey Wallenstein is the New York based mom of three behind the parenting, lifestyle, travel, beauty and food blog and channel The Mint Chip Mama. Stacey was picked as a NY Metro Parent Influencer to watch, and nominated as the Best Blog on Long Island in 2022, 2023, and 2024.Before becoming a full-time mom in 2010, Stacey spent a decade as a high-end customer relationship management (CRM) professional managing customer loyalty programs for some of the most well-known brands including Harrah’s Entertainment, Chanel and Christian Dior.Stacey is a graduate of th...
2025-05-071h 31
The Other 22 HoursValerie June on the law of attraction, a malleable life, and testing limits.Valerie June is a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter whose music has been praised by Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, NPR, and Bob Dylan himself (who is a self-proclaimed fan). She has performed with John Prine, Norah Jones, Booker T. Jones, Robert Plant, Meshell Ndegeocello, Dave Matthews, Angelique Kidjo, Willie Nelson, Brandi Carlile, and Elvis Costello, written books of poetry and on art, and is a certified yoga and mindfulness instructor. We talk to Valerie about intention setting and the law of attraction, learning to live with chronic illness, testing different approaches and your creative limits, manifesting, rituals and routines...
2025-04-3047 minYour Story Matters#58 Grief from a Father’s Perspective with Jason TuttleJason is a married father of two kids with multiple mental and physical disabilities. He was a Stay-at-Home Dad and medical caregiver for 12 years until his son suddenly and unexpectedly passed away from issues related to his needs on 01/28/22.Since the day Jason’s son passed and after a year of intense grieving, he knew that he needed and wanted to create something to help him grieve as well as create a legacy for his son. Plus, he knew that he needed to help others in their grief too. The idea for a grief co...
2025-04-231h 16Your Story Matters#57 Advocating Mental Health Representation in Novels with Alice CaddAlice Cadd has over 30 years of experience as a consultant psychiatrist specialising in general adult psychiatry, treating conditions from schizophrenia to complex PTSD. It has been a rewarding career working with individuals whose resilience in the face of mental health challenges, has inspired her.
She is now facing retirement and has turned her hand to writing psychological thrillers, driven by a passion for promoting mental wellness, challenging stigma, and advocating for the preservation of our natural environment.
We talk about:
Demystifying mental health misconceptions
The...
2025-04-0942 minYour Story Matters#56 The Importance of Career Coaching + Intention with Kali WolkenKali is a Career Coach and Therapist who loves helping people find what truly fulfills them. After spending most of her adult life in Indiana, Kali returned to her home state of Michigan where she began helping her clients find and pursue work they love. Kali believes that every part of every story shapes us, and it is the understanding of all these parts that can give you freedom to discover who it is you truly want to be.
We talk about:
Understanding career coaching + its importance
Generational shifts in ca...
2025-03-2644 minYour Story Matters#55 Life Lessons from “The Playbook” with Gary E. ParkerGary Parker is an author of 20 traditionally published novels, including a Doubleday Book Club Main Selection and 6 screenplays, 1 sold and 2 others optioned. He enjoys writing, took up guitar a year ago, plays some golf, rides a bike (pedaling kind).
We talk about:
Gary’s journey as a writer
Exploring cultural themes in “The Playbook”
Character dynamics + community building
Life Lessons from “The Playbook”
Book Mention: Lonesome Dove
Connect with Gary: Website | The Playbook: A Novel | Facebook
2025-03-1248 minYour Story Matters#54 Surrogacy + Helping Moms Overcome Guilt with Alysia LyonsAlysia Lyons is a certified coach, author, Reiki master, and NLP-certified coach dedicated to helping moms release guilt and find peace in their lives. Alysia specializes in guiding women through life transitions and helping them build healthier relationships, achieve emotional balance, and embrace self-care. With a holistic approach that blends practical strategies and spiritual insights, Alysia empowers her clients to navigate the chaos of parenting while fostering personal growth and transformation.
In addition to her coaching practice, Alysia has been a surrogate multiple times, an experience that inspired her to write Creating Little Miracles...
2025-02-2640 minYour Story Matters#53 Having the Right Mindset in Fitness + Wellness with Ariel FrantzAriel is a fitness and wellness coach with over a decade of experience in the industry. Starting as a personal trainer and earning her IFBB pro card in the Wellness category, she built her career helping others achieve their physical goals. But when she realized true health was about more than just the body, she shifted her focus to a holistic approach, helping clients achieve Deep Health—a balance of physical, emotional, mental, environmental, social, and spiritual well-being.
Ariel and her husband Dillon now run Deep Fit, an online coaching business, where they empower dri...
2025-02-1251 minYour Story Matters#52 Surviving Covert Narcissism with Mia J. HanksMia Hanks is a survivor of narcissistic abuse. She was married to a covert narcissist for 29 years before finally breaking free and finding her voice. She recently published a memoir about her experiences titled Bride-Made. Mia hopes to raise awareness about narcissistic abuse and help other victims know they are not alone.
We talk about:
Understanding covert narcissism
Recognizing red flags
The process of leaving an abusive relationship
Mia’s healing journey through writing
Discovering self-identity after abuse
Book Me...
2025-01-2931 minYour Story Matters#51 Healing Chronic Pain with Blanche MoskoviciBlanche Moskovici, M.A. helps female CEO’s, coaches and caregivers to master chronic pain relief fast without meds, so they can pursue their projects and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. She has direct experience with chronic pain from car accidents, falls, and injuries. By harnessing the wisdom of the energy arts like Qigong, she has learned to dissolve chronic pain, which gratefully enabled her to recover in-vivo from a mini-stroke with no aftereffects. This wake-up call sparked a need to share her story with other women struggling with chronic pain and led to birthing the Pain-Free FAB3 Pr...
2025-01-1559 minYour Story Matters#50 Kicking off Season 3Welcome to Season 3!!!
In this episode, I talk about:
Life updates: Personal + Physical
Stress management tips
An affirmation for 2025
Articles Mentioned:
18 Effective Stress Relief Strategies
10 Daily Habits That Often Drain 90 Percent of Our Inner Peace and Joy
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website | Free Enneagram Consult
2025-01-0118 min
Fashion Business MindsetMichaela Wessels, CEO of Style Arcade | Unlocking 44% Growth for Fashion Brands & RetailersToday, I’m thrilled to be joined by Michaela Wessels, CEO & co-founder of Style Arcade. Style Arcade is revolutionising the retail and e-commerce space with its cutting-edge platform, empowering fashion brands to make data-driven decisions. Michaela is a retail and e-commerce veteran with over 15 years of experience in merchandise buying, planning and consulting. Michaela’s trailblazing work ethic and entrepreneurship has seen Australia's biggest brands replace spreadsheets with intelligent fashion analytics and digital range planning from Style Arcade. Michaela's background in finance formed the foundation of entering into over a decade of g...
2024-12-1239 minYour Story Matters#49 Year in ReviewIn this episode, I review the second year of Your Story Matters + hint at a few things for 2025! The BIGGEST thank you to all my listeners, this show isn't possible without you.
Click here to download the 2024 Podcast Guests' Favorite Book List
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website | Free Enneagram Consult
2024-12-0407 minYour Story Matters#48 Mastery Over Status in Art with Cam RhodesWelcome to the Ending Series!
My best friend Cam is back on the show!
Cam is a singer, songwriter, and voice teacher from Pittsburgh. He graduated with a degree in theatre from Kent State. During COVID, he released his debut single and musical “Better Now” which received over 10,000 views within its first several weeks. He’s currently in the process of releasing his EP and has plans to perform live.
We talk about:
Life lessons beyond college
The Evolution of Artistic Expression
Balancing Authen...
2024-11-2051 minYour Story Matters#47 Living a Peacefully Productive Life with Jess Massey
Welcome to the Ending Series!
I am stoked to introduce you to Jess Massey on today's episode.
Jess Massey hosts The Hustle Sanely Podcast, a planner creator, and founder of the community-centered productivity brand Hustle Sanely®. She uses her framework The Hustle Sanely Planning System™ to teach ambitious women how to live peacefully productive lives by creating harmony between their well-being, work, and relationships no matter their season.
We talk about:
The...
2024-11-0658 minYour Story Matters#46 I've Been Afraid of ChangingWelcome to the Ending Series!
In this episode, I talk about:
embracing change
the impact of change in our life
strategies + insights for coping with change
Article | How to Get Better When Coping with Change
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Free Consult | Instagram | Website
2024-10-2311 minYour Story Matters#45 Finding Freedom + Permission to Quit with Elyse RegierWelcome to the Ending Series!
I am excited to introduce you to Elyse Regier on today's episode.
Elyse Regier is an Enneagram coach and cat lady living in Northwest Indiana. She helps people find their Enneagram type and then use it to improve their careers, families, and spiritual journeys—her podcast, Towards Eden, launched in September 2024.
We talk about:
The impact of the Enneagram on Personal Growth
Navigating Career Challenges + Burnout
Finding Freedom + Permission to Quit
Launching Towards Eden Enneagram Podcast
Towards Ede...
2024-10-0943 minYour Story Matters#44 Finding Your Passion + Learning to Soar with Ellie WestWelcome to the Ending Series!
I am excited to introduce you to Ellie West on today's episode.
Ellie West, a Purser Flight Attendant with a distinguished 44-year career, has consistently showcased her exceptional gifts in hospitality. Her recent journey into Personal Development, marked by the acquisition of 11 certifications, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to personal growth and self-improvement. This unexpected path has deeply resonated with her, inspiring others to embark on their transformation journeys. Ellie is a Master-Certified Practitioner in NLP, Timeline Therapy, and Hypnotherapy, as well as an Enneagram Coach and Personal E...
2024-09-2549 minYour Story Matters#43 EndingsWelcome to the Endings part of the show!
In this episode, I share:
the invitation of endings
the endings impact our life
the importance of well-rounded endings
the power of endings shaping our lives
How to Walk Into a Room by Emily P. Freeman
Connect with Michaela
Check-In Page | Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-09-1114 minYour Story Matters#42 Middles Part 02 Wrap-UpIn this episode, I recap the Middle section of the podcast; what stood out to me, and more.
I can't wait to share the Endings part coming this September!
Connect with Michaela: Check-In Pages | Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-08-1411 minYour Story Matters#41 The Secret to Writing the Middle of a StoryThere's a FREEBIE mentioned in this show that you can get here! Seeing the Hero + Villain Parts of Your Personality --- a guide to understanding each Enneagram Types' hero + villain traits.
Want an easy journaling page with only 4 questions a month!? Click here to get your free check-in page
In this episode, I talk about:
The 5 Secrets for Authors from an article from TheWritePlace.com called The Secret to Writing the Middle of a Story --> click here to read
2024-07-3115 minYour Story Matters#40 Life-Saving Hacks for the MiddleToday I'll be sharing the life-saving hacks that are helping me right now in a difficult season --- no matter where you are, you're not alone!
Also, I share an easy journaling page I've created called Monthly Check-In Pages where through this 4-question guide you can become a better journaler with this simple practice.
Get your FREE Monthly Check-In Page here!
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-07-1706 minYour Story Matters#39 The Myth of Having it All (Balancing Work + Life) with Kiri MohanWelcome to the Middle Series!
I am excited to introduce you to Kiri Mohan, Freelance Coach + Founder of Corporate2Contract, on today's episode.
Kiri Mohan helps women freelancers with a corporate background take their contractor business from surviving to thriving. Her Corporate2Contract Core and Collective programs guide women in growing their freelance businesses to set them up for success, earn an income over six figures and get more time back in their day. When not working on her courses or leading women, she is podcasting (Her Balanced Hustle...
2024-07-0355 minYour Story Matters#38 The Power of Visual Media for Effective Storytelling with Haley KlugeWelcome to the Middle Series!
I am excited to introduce you to Haley Kluge on today's episode.
Based in Los Angeles, Haley Kluge is an award-winning creative director spearheading creative endeavors at Variety magazine. She is the youngest and first female creative director in its 118-year history. She has previously worked at Netflix, Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan and Good Housekeeping. In 2023, she was recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 and an American Society of Magazine Editors NEXT Journalist. She holds a degree in journalism and graphic design from Michigan State Uni...
2024-06-1949 minYour Story Matters#37 Seeking Adventure in the Middle with Amanda + Greg DowellWelcome to the Middle Series!
I'm so excited to welcome back Amanda (Type 8) + welcome her husband Greg (Type 3). You might remember Amanda from episode #11: you can listen to it here.
Greg and Amanda approach each season of their life together with a spirit of adventure, choosing to be open to all opportunities that became available. They have been married for almost 30 years with one daughter. Greg spent the majority of his professional career as an executive with publicly traded real estate companies and Amanda worked as a designer before staying at home...
2024-06-0556 minYour Story Matters#36 Living with Grit, Grace + Gratitude with Ro ElliottWelcome to the Middle Series!
I am excited to re-introduce you to Ro Elliott (Type 2) on today's episode. Ro was a guest on Don't Worry You're Enough + you can listen to that episode here!
Ro + her husband have been married for 43 years + have 5 children + 9 children. When her youngest turned 18, Ro found herself feeling lost. She went on an incredible journey to rediscover her identity + what life had in store for her. Ro pursued her Narrative Focus trauma Care certificate from the Allender Center. This allowed her to gain a deep...
2024-05-2255 minYour Story Matters#35 Practical Ways to Navigate the Middle with Amy NaborsWelcome to the Middle Series!
I am excited to re-introduce you to Amy Nabors (Type 1) on today's episode. Amy was a guest on Don't Worry You're Enough + you can listen to that episode here!
Amy is an Enneagram coach & facilitator for The 6 Types of Working Genius. She helps teams & leaders overcome the challenges that keep them overwhelmed, stressed out, & burned out so they can live and lead with more purpose & peace.
We talk about:
Amy turning 50
Working towards leaving a full-time job for coaching
What society...
2024-05-0854 minYour Story Matters#34 Beginnings Part 1 Wrap UpIn this episode, I recap the Beginnings part of the podcast; what stood out to me, and more.
I can't wait to share the Middle part coming next episode!
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-04-2409 minYour Story Matters#33 Subtypes + Meta Self-Help with Adam ScarchilliAdam is a passionate person. His many interests include tennis, piano, dancing, chess, and the Rubik’s Cube. His technical abilities in math led him to major in Statistics at Michigan State University and start an analytics career. However, he’s realized that he is more driven by harnessing his creativity and working with others. He is in a period of "new beginnings" as an enneagram coach and being active across Oakland University where he studies jazz piano.
In this episode, we talk about:
Adam's 6-year journey in landing on his Type
His know...
2024-04-1052 minYour Story Matters#32 Why I Choose a Pencil Over a PenIn this episode, I share the secret I alluded to in the last episode... what I started using at the beginning of the year that has changed me.
Writing in pencil:
1. Has done a lot for my soul—and given me a perspective I wasn’t looking for.
2. Has not made me miss color.
3. Helped me be open to change.
Articles mentioned:
Who Invented the Pencil?
Pen Writing Implement
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-03-2712 minYour Story Matters#31 The Circle of LifeDo you ever feel like you’re in the middle of a beginning? Or when does an ending feel like the end? Those are great questions... but sometimes it feels like we wait forever for the answers.
In this episode, I share thoughts on the circle of life regarding beginnings, middles, and ends.
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-03-1307 minYour Story Matters#30 Four Things That Are Easy to StartIn this episode, I talk about the 4 things that are easy to start personally. What do you have an easy time starting?
Books
TV Shows
Journals
Coaching
*My podcast episode with Leah | Listen Here
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-02-2812 minYour Story Matters#29 The Power of Healing Foods with Erica TaftIn this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Erica Taft. She is a holistic nutritionist driven by a fervent passion to empower individuals facing diseases to embrace natural healing with the guidance of God, nutrition, and other holistic modalities.
Erica shares her health journey as it relates to being diagnosed with multiple autoimmune diseases, receiving a prognosis, and ultimately healing her body through food.
If you'd like to connect with Erica + learn more about holistic nutrition + how it can have a lasting impact on your health journey...
2024-02-1454 minYour Story Matters#28 Start Where You AreIn this episode, I share some thoughts about beginnings, what they look like, + how I'm challenged to stop believing I need to be an expert in everything and start where I am.
Beginnings...
1. are hard
2. bring up a lot of anxiety
3. bring up feelings of failure
4. can be unexpected
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-01-3113 minYour Story Matters#27 Your Support System MattersWe're halfway through January + already it has been a month...
I share about how this year hasn't started quite like I thought it would, why a support system matters, and a 4-question guide to help you navigate a beginning in your life to see it with more clarity + to help organize your thoughts.
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-01-1710 min
Your Story Matters#26 BeginningsHappy New Year!
In this episode, I talk all about beginnings + how we can approach this year with a better mindset. And as a fun little addition, I sprinkle the beginning parts of some of my favorite books!
I am so excited for 2024 + am so glad to have you on this journey with me. Click the link below to join my Newsletter!
Connect with Michaela: Newsletter | Instagram | Website
2024-01-0318 minYour Story Matters#25 Year In ReviewIn this episode, I review the first year of Your Story Matters + hint at a few things for 2024! A HUGE thank you to all my listeners, this show isn't possible without you.
Click HERE if you want to download the Book List I mentioned.
Connect with Michaela: Instagram | Website
2023-12-2012 minYour Story Matters#24 Felisha Caldeira on Performing, Feelings + EfficiencyThis is the final episode of the Fall Enneagram Series for this year.
I am excited to introduce you to Felisha Caldeira (Type 3).
Felisha is a devoted follower of Jesus. She is married to a pastor and blessed with three amazing sons. She is the proud founder of Honestly You, Enneagram Coaching. Learning her type (Type 3!) was exciting and uncomfortable, but it has changed her life for the better. She is passionate about helping people uncover their authentic selves, conquer personal and relational obstacles, and experience...
2023-12-0645 min
Technoskeptic PodcastMichaela Headmistress Katharine BirbalsinghWe recently ran a lengthy print interview with Michaela Headmistress Katharine Birbalsingh about her school’s Digital Detox program and parents’ struggles in implementing it, Choosing Smart Kids over Smartphones. This podcast is the conversation we recorded with Michaela’s Headmistress as part of updating our 2019 with her. Some of the material in this podcast appeared in the “Smart Kids” article, but we also covered some spicy topics in this podcast, including some speculation on why her successful school draws so much flak, that we didn’t have space for in the Smart Kids article.
2023-12-0231 minYour Story Matters#23 Jaken Orten on Knowledge + MinistryIn our second to last episode of the Fall Enneagram Series, I'm excited to introduce Jaken (Type 5).
Jaken Orten a Pentecostal preacher from Dawson Springs, KY. He started preaching at the ripe old age of 15 and became a youth pastor at the age of 17. His one true passion has always been ministry.
He loves spending time listening to podcasts on all topics from history to preaching to the Enneagram! He also hosts a couple of podcasts: Reality Speaks (which is focused on helping Christians understand the real world better...
2023-11-2238 minYour Story Matters#22 Bonni Mace on Self-Worth + Believing You Are a MasterpieceThe fourth episode in the Fall Enneagram Series is a special one.
I am thrilled to introduce you to Bonni Mace (Type 9). This was such an in-depth + robust conversation that I won't soon forget.
Bonni is a Personal Growth and Certified Enneagram Coach helping people to discover who they are and what they believe during a faith shift or deconstruction. Her passion is to help people see their whole selves - strengths and weaknesses - as a masterpiece and to create a safe, grace-filled space to...
2023-11-0846 minYour Story Matters#21 Linda Hannigan + What It Looks Like to Be Present + Sabbath WellY'all get ready...
I am so excited to share my new friend Linda Hannigan (Type 3) with you.
Linda is a wife of 20+ years, mom to three sons, and Enneagram Coach from the Pacific Northwest. In 2018 she came across the Enneagram and began studying it for personal growth. The impact it had on her marriage and parenting was transformational.
After experiencing information turning into revelation and actual transformation in her life, Linda knew she wanted to share her journey with others. Since launching 9 Lumens in 2020...
2023-10-2554 minYour Story Matters#20 Renee Bethel on the Ability to Acknowledge Time + EnergyIn our second episode of our Fall Enneagram Series, I am excited to talk with the sweet + caring Renee Bethel!
Renee Bethel is a Certified Enneagram Coach and a Professional Christian Life Coach who is passionate about nurturing growth in fellow Christian women. She specializes in helping women in the second half of life foster deeper connections and relationships with God, themselves, and with family and friends.
She is a wife, mom, and grandmother who loves to learn and loves sharing resources to help others. Renee loves deep conversations and personal growth opportunities. As...
2023-10-1136 min
Raised & Redeemed63. Saved From Demons, An Abusive Boyfriend & Stripper Life | Elizabeth OrtegaElizabeth grew up in a Christian home, but rebelled into the wrong groups of friends, drug and alcohol abuse, and eventually exotic dancing.
It was in the night clubs that she came into astrology and other New Age spiritual practices, and began opening even more portals to demons. One of which came in the form of her abusive ex-boyfriend, whom she finally escaped in the ultimate climax of her coming home to Jesus testimony.
After grabbing the clip of his gun and making a run for it with only some of her things and no...
2023-10-0452 minYour Story Matters#19 Alison Speerbrecker on Life Coaching + How We Can Combat Self-DoubtFor the first episode in our 2023 Fall Enneagram Series, I am so excited to be talking with my life coach Alison. Meeting her through a mutual friend has been the highlight of my year as I worked with her, seeking help for feeling "stuck" in my life; she helped me SO MUCH.
In this episode, we talk about:
How the Enneagram found her
Moving from a career in social work to becoming a life coach
The challenges of being a Type 4
What it looks like for fantasy + reality to exist together (it's totally...
2023-09-2740 minYour Story Matters#18 The Sound of SilenceDo you notice when your life is too loud?
Join me as talk about the power of noise + how it's having a negative effect on us. Then, I propose the Enneagram as a way of slowing down. It will help answer questions you have + also help to make sense of the noise surrounding you.
PLUS this is also an intro to our Fall Enneagram Series! I hope you'll join me in two weeks --- I'll be interviewing Types 3, 4, 5 + 9!
How Listening to Silence Changes Our Brains
...
2023-09-1317 minYour Story Matters#17 Color Changes EverythingBoy oh boy... what a journey this has been!
A few weeks ago, I started to paint my office + little did I know how much I would change during this crazy adventure. Join me as I share the process of choosing a paint color + how I found myself back at Home Depot to look for another one. This story might have started out about color but really ended up being about the power of change.
Subscribe to my newsletter to see before, during, and after pictures...
2023-08-1616 minYour Story Matters#16 Be Careful What You Wish ForI chose "visibility" for my word for 2023 + I talk about how it has challenged, changed, and confused me, to say the least.
Listen in as I walk through how this summer has been for me especially when I was at my lowest + wanting to quit.
Follow Michaela | Website
2023-08-0210 minYour Story Matters#15 Mike Tuchek on our 1st Year of MarriageThis episode is really fun because I get to bring my husband on the podcast to recap our story from dating to celebrating our 1 year anniversary.
We chat about our highlights + some tough moments. We recap what we've learned + are still learning. This was so fun to do together, enjoy!
Follow Mike: Facebook
Follow Michaela: Website
2023-07-1935 minYour Story Matters#14 Diane Roberts on Our Girls Trip, Prayer + Being Open to Wild ExperiencesYou know her + you love her, Diane Roberts is BACK to chat it up with Michaela. This is her first time on Your Story Matters, but she's a pro having co-created/hosted the Don't Worry You're Enough Podcast with Michaela last year.
In this episode, we chat about:
our summer trip to see Annie F. Downs + Carlos Whittaker on the Here for You Tour
the difference between singing for theatre + singing at church
how Diane's life has changed this year
how many times we've said "wild"
Book Mentions:
...
2023-07-0544 minYour Story Matters#13 Stephanie Jordan on Boundaries, Forgiveness & ExcessThe last installment of our Spring Enneagram Series is with none other than powerhouse Stephanie Jordan (Type 8).
Stephanie is an author, teacher, and speaker. She has been a cosmetologist for 24 years. She has 5 amazing kids with 4 extras that her husband brought into the family. She has one dog and two cats. She has broad life experiences and likes adventure. She loves Jesus and intends to spend her life sharing His message in an unconventional way. Her artistic and rock n roll style influence her outlook on life and living it to the full. She...
2023-06-2154 minThe Other 22 HoursElizabeth Cook on living creatively, diversification, and fairy tales.Elizabeth Cook has released 7 records, played the Grand Ole Opry 400+ times, hosts Apron Strings on Outlaw Country Sirius XM and Upstream on Circle TV, and is an occasional character on Squidbillies on adult swim (as Tammi). We talk to Elizabeth about her incredible diversity in her creative endeavors, her approach to creating in every facet of life, coming up in the Music Row publishing world and a whole lot more. Get more access, including exclusive content, advance knowledge of our guests and the ability to have them answer your questions, special workshops, and more by becoming a m...
2023-06-0750 minYour Story Matters#12 Cheryl Knowlton & The Joy of Fun, Finding Yourself & Balancing it AllThis conversation is one of the most dynamic and energetic ones I've ever had! This week's guest is the fabulous Cheryl Knowlton (Type 7).
Cheryl Knowlton is the CEO and Chief Energy Officer at Dynamite Productions, Inc., a Certified Woman-Owned Company and consulting firm focused on helping people to go on a deep-dive adventure into radical authenticity. She has been in the real estate industry since 1999 and has achieved numerous accomplishments in the field. She is a Certified Fascinate Advisor®, a Certified Enneagram Coach, and a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), which is the highest earned a...
2023-06-0748 minYour Story MattersBONUS Kris Renee & Wren: The Brat Pack Series (Book 2)Spicy romance author Kris Renee chats with Michaela to discuss her new book Wren (Book II) from The Brat Pack Series.
Kris Renee lives in the Midwest with her husband, their eight children, and two dogs. She is a lover of dangly earrings, reading, decorating, and peanut butter. Oh! And sleeping! Kris spends her summers camping with her big family in their travel trailer (pulled by their 15-passenger van). She enjoys visiting as many State and National Parks as possible on their trips, roasting s’mores over the campfire every night, and convincing her hu...
2023-06-011h 03Your Story Matters#11 Amanda Dowell on the Need for Self-Awareness & Refugee WorkToday's guest is the lovely and insightful Amanda Dowell (Type 8).
Amanda is a Certified Enneagram Coach with a passion to share the growth available through the Enneagram with the youngers of the world.
Born in Alabama, yet a Texan at her core, Amanda and her husband currently live in Georgetown, Texas. She is also a Mom of one adult daughter who she is thrilled to call a Friend. She and her husband spend a few months each year in Greece working in a refugee ministry. Extended time in Greece and other world travel has...
2023-05-2440 minYour Story Matters#10 Kara Rasmussen on Anxiety & SafetyIn continuation of our Spring Enneagram Series, my guest today is the wonderful Kara Rasmussen (Type 6).
Kara Rasmussen is a Certified Enneagram Coach with a background in Social Work. Kara spent the first 12 years of her life as an MK (missionary kid) in Africa until her family moved to Minnesota — a place she still calls home, now with her husband of twenty years and their three teenage children. Kara is passionate about creating safe spaces for people to explore who they are, and she loves to share how the Enneagram can help us to gr...
2023-05-1036 min
Your Story Matters#9 Abby Zandevakili on Mental Health & AuthenticityI am so excited to have on the podcast today, my new Type Four friend, Abby Zandevakili!
Abby is a mental health counselor in Texas, with an enneagram coaching business in the works! Her passion for the enneagram stems from how positively impactful it has been and continues to be, for her personal and professional life. This impact is what led her to become a certified enneagram coach in 2022, with the ultimate goal of starting a business.
We talk about so many good things:
Mental health and why...
2023-04-2638 minYour Story Matters#8 Carla Anne Ferguson & the Power of VulnerabilityToday's conversation is all about passion and intensity from my new friend Carla Anne who identifies as a strong female Type 8.
Carla Anne is a dynamic, author and speaker, mom, wife, grandma, and Coach. People who know her well consider her an 'idea machine' and a passionate protector for those she cares for. She has been a challenger her whole life, and being an Enneagram Type 8 woman has provided her with difficulties in the workplace, and a unique perspective on leadership. While she loves others with deep and passionate love, many are intimidated by...
2023-04-1244 minYour Story Matters#7 Personality & Why It MattersIn today's TedTalk (ahem, podcast episode), we are looking at personality and why we should care about it. I share the top four personality typing systems out there and how they help people answer some of those questions about their behaviors and motivations for thinking, feeling, and doing what they do.
I'm also excited to announce my Spring Enneagram Series which begins April 12th where I get to chat with some fabulous people about their journey to the Enneagram and how learning about their personality unlocked freedom in their life.
Here are...
2023-03-2923 min
Strides for StrengthWorld Marathon Challenge FINISHER w/ Michael GabrielToday we are SO excited to have Michael Gabriel on the podcast! Michael was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and is a tech professional who stumbled into running and costuming while running. He was a soccer player in school, but when he did not make the team, he turned to track and field. He and his friend Elizabeth, who he met during college, decided to do the Atlanta Track Club's 10-mile race and he enjoyed it so much that he did a half marathon two weeks later. Following that he put his name in the New...
2023-03-221h 32Your Story Matters#6 The Art of Lost CommunicationIf you're anything like me, I cannot resist period-piece dramas in books, movies, and TV shows because I am obsessed! In this episode, I talk about the reasons why I love all things period-piece as it relates to communication and what we seem to lack today.
The pandemic certainly changed how we communicate now in the 21st century, but let's not forget the power of a good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation.
Articles:
The 50 funniest lines from literature
56 Delightful Victorian Slang Terms You Should Be Using
2023-03-1518 minYour Story Matters#5 Rest... You Have Time for ItIn this episode, I take briefly about the importance of rest and why it matters.
Even with our crazy busy lives, we can find the time to stop, pause, and breathe into rest that will refuel us.
I also share a list of ways to bring rest into your life... try one out if you haven't before! I'd love to know how you rest! Message me, I'd love to learn how you incorporate it into you life.
Connect with Michaela on Instagram!
2023-03-0113 minYour Story Matters#4 Dani Cooper & The Enneagram for Christian CouplesFor lovers of books (and the Enneagram) that challenge our perspective, faith, and journey... this episode is for you.
I am so excited to chat AGAIN with my friend and author Dani Cooper (Type 1) about her new book The Enneagram for Christian Couples: A Guide to Understanding Your Personality Types and Deepening Your Relationship.
Dani Cooper is a Certified Enneagram Teacher and Coach for individuals, couples, and teams.
She is passionate about encouraging others to get on the road to self-discovery, and believes that...
2023-02-1537 minYour Story Matters#3 Letting Go of Social ExpectationsDo social expectations get your heart beating fast and your head spinning faster? Have you ever struggled with what American society tells us about knowing what you're meant to do when you're in high school or college? Have you ever come to a crossroads in your life/career that surfaced the question "what do I do next?"
If you're anything like me, I struggle with knowing what to do next in terms of my job/career. I share some insight into why that is (in my opinion) and provide some helpful resources so we can learn to s...
2023-02-0125 minYour Story Matters#2 Camara Rhodes & Estill Voice TrainingI am so excited to introduce my best friend from college, Camara Rhodes.
Camara is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and vocal instructor from Pittsburgh, PA. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies from Kent State University and is in pursuit of his Estill Figure Proficiency certificate. Camara specializes in stylizing voices to create signature pop and rock sounds. Using Estill Voice Training, he teaches the anatomy and physiology of the voice and concentrates on the 12 isolated muscles that are responsible for making specific sounds when speaking and singing.
When auditioning for rock m...
2023-01-1843 min
Your Story Matters#1 Not Where I Thought I'd BeWelcome to the very first episode of Your Story Matters. I'm your host, Michaela Elizabeth, and I'm grateful you're here!
I'm always reflective every new year, and I'm even more so when I took a look back, not on the last year but the last 10 years.
You're invited to come along as I share my journey from high school to college to Covid-19 to finding my husband. It's been a wild ride and while I thought I'd always be doing theatre, I never expected this is the way my life would turn out. I'm grateful...
2023-01-0419 min
Your Story MattersYour Story Matters - Trailer 2New Year... New Podcast!
I'm so glad you're here. This quick episode is another insight into the beginnings of this podcast and my hope for the coming days.
2022-11-0802 minYour Story MattersYour Story Matters - TrailerHello and welcome to Your Story Matters Podcast. My name is Michaela Elizabeth and thank you for joining me on this journey. My hope for this podcast is that we will experience the power of storytelling and understand that we are the main characters in our own stories in order to break free from the false narrative that has been playing in our minds. I’ll share from my life and I’ll chat with friends about theirs on a variety of topics like relationships, Enneagram, seasons of life, and more. Your story matters. My story matters. And I’ll con...
2022-11-0100 min
Resilient Life HacksThriving In Spite of Disability, Divorce, & Death with Michaela Cox
Michaela S. Cox is a multi-published author/ speaker who inspires, empowers people to overcome their own tribulations and find hope and healing in a diverse and various range of areas of life by sharing her journey of 38DDD of learning how to go from much tribulation of life long Disability of legal blindness, Divorce at 26 and Death/loss of beloved husband at 38 and thrown into solo parenting and thriving in life no matter what comes my way. So that they too can thrive in and through their own challenges and tribulations in life.
Michaela S. Cox publications include...
2022-04-1330 min
No Labels, No Limits podcast220 - Enneagram & Personal Transformation with Michaela ElizabethThe No Labels, No Limits podcast eagerly entertains another wonderful guest, Michaela Elizabeth. She is a Certified Enneagram Coach and the co-host of the Don't Worry You're Enough podcast. A lover of books, writing, letters, and all things Downton Abbey, Michaela can be seen cross-stitching and drinking a cup of tea curled up on the couch.Digging a little deeper, we learn that she went into coaching because she remembers the countless people in her life who offered their time, wisdom, and shoulder to cry on listening to her tales of woe and gently giving her...
2022-01-2032 min
The Power to Pivot Podcast38DDD: Disability, Divorce, and Death with Author Michaela CoxMichaela Cox is a seven-time published author, and she joins me on the podcast to talk with me about her journey overcoming disability and blindness, coming back from divorce, and overcoming the heartbreak of the death of her husband and father of her children.
Michaela teaches and inspires others through her work, and her most recent book We the People Are? Defining and Exploring Who ‘We the People’ Are as a People, a Society and a Nation Is a framework for a new conversation about the constitution of the United States. As she shares on the show, when...
2021-03-2336 min