Imagine taking everything you need for a multi-day backpacking trip in a pack weighing less than 10 pounds. That's ultralight backpacking, and our guest, adventurer Jerry Dugan, is here to share his passion and expertise in this unique outdoor pursuit. With a rich history tracing back to George Sears in the late 1800s and Grandma Gatewood in 1955, ultralight backpacking offers a minimalist approach to exploring the great outdoors. Jerry shares his journey from hammock camping to ultralight backpacking, and provides invaluable advice on what essentials to pack for various trips, all while keeping the load under 10 pounds.Going solo or in a group, each backpacking trip presents its own challenges and dilemmas. Whether it’s planning for solo trips or managing the dynamics within a group, Jerry imparts his wisdom on these often overlooked aspects of backpacking. He candidly shares stories of wildlife encounters during his solo journeys, and how his ultralight gear enables him to move faster, see more, and have unique experiences off the beaten path. Learn how to adjust your gear based on weather, the importance of knowing your water sources, and crucial safety measures to keep in mind, particularly when camping in wildlife-dense areas.Taking ultralight backpacking a step further, Jerry also talks about his plans to conquer sections of the Appalachian Trail and shares some of his upcoming trips. Tune in for a compelling exploration of ultralight backpacking and gather invaluable tips for your next outdoor adventure!Guest Links:Beyond the Rut PodcastSet up a Lighter Pack Account to assess your gear weightAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Can you imagine a 17-year-old helping his peers navigate the complex world of mental health? Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Filimon Meaza, the creator of The Brief Dive podcast. Filimon shares his personal journey of self-reflection, emotional resilience, and positive self-talk, showing us how he transformed his own mental health and now empowers other teenagers on their journey towards mental well-being.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the meditation tools Filimon uses to stay focused, as well as his unique ability to attract an older audience while still focusing on teen mental health. We also discuss his observational skills and script-writing process for his podcast, highlighting the power of open discussions around mental health and the importance of taking breaks to avoid burnout. Join us for this incredibly insightful episode where we delve into personal growth and mental health with a young, passionate, and determined individual.Guest LinksThe Brief Dive on Apple PodcastsThe Brief Dive on SpotifyFollow The Brief Dive on InstagramAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Discover the fascinating world of search and rescue missions in our captivating conversation with Dan Patterson, a founding member of the Mountaineer Area Rescue Group. With over 26 years of experience and participation in more than 300 missions, Dan shares invaluable insights into the immense planning, coordination, and dedication required to save lives in the great outdoors. You won't want to miss his incredible stories of both heart-wrenching and heartwarming outcomes.Learn about the qualifications and backgrounds of the Mountaineer Area Rescue Group volunteers, as well as the latest technology and processes they use to plan and execute these critical missions. From drones and GPS systems to maps and compasses, the group is dedicated to staying ahead of the game in locating and rescuing missing persons. Hear about the challenges they face in the wilderness, and how they're often called upon to assist with logistics and communications in other emergencies.Finally, explore the rewarding feeling of reuniting a missing person with their family, and take away some valuable tips for hikers to stay safe on the trails. With Dan's expertise in navigating the rugged outdoors, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the passion and dedication of these search and rescue heroes. Join us for an eye-opening look into the world of wilderness search and rescue, and the incredible volunteers who make it their mission to save lives.Mountaineer Area Rescue Group LinksMARG WebsiteEMS Joins Forces with Mountaineer Area Rescue Group (article)Mountaineer Area Rescue Group in the news (article)Search and Rescue in the United StatesAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

We were saddened to learn about the passing of a former guest, Jaimie Sherling.  In tribute to the beautiful soul she was, here is her original conversation from April of 2022.We were deeply honored to have had a conversation with the inspiring Jaimie Sherling before discovering she had passed away from cancer in April of 2023.  This is a remastered version of Jaimie's original episode, "The You Do You Conversation" in honor of Jaimie's beautiful soul and bright light she always managed to shine, even when she didn't feel so shiny on the inside.   At the time we sat down with Jaimie she had emerged as a survivor with an incredible story to tell. Through her journey, she created a clothing line called "You Do You Sweets" for women adapting to their new, post double mastectomy bodies and authored the book "From Queen's to Queen's" that captures her unique life experiences with resilience and wit.We delved into Jamie's life post-double mastectomy, exploring her transition to a new body and the vital support she received from her network of friends, family, and the Madison, Wisconsin drag community. Jamie's creativity shone through as she discussed the conception and development of her clothing line, as well as the writing process for her book. Her strength and determination are a testament to the power of self-acceptance and overcoming adversity.Lastly, we touched on Jamie's profound connection with the drag queen community and the love and acceptance they extended towards her. Performing as a backup dancer in drag shows and finding solace in the joyous atmosphere, Jamie's spirit remained unbroken.  She was transparent in the difficulty dealing with the lows and embraced the highs, not matter what they were. We encourage you to pick up her books for inspiration and in honor of the beautiful spirit and light that she was to everyone she met.From Queens to Queens: How the Madison Drag Community Saved My LifeI'm Tough...and I Cry AlotYou Do You Sweets ClothingAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Have you ever dreamt of turning your hobby into a full-time passion and experiencing the thrill of personal fulfillment?  Join me, your host Helen, as we explore the challenges and triumphs of these brave individuals, from conquering stage fright to expanding a small hobby into something much more significant.Starting this August, tune in every other Wednesday for inspiring stories from people daring to follow their dreams. We'll learn about unique hobbies, laugh together, and discover how our guests turned their passions into reality. You never know – you might just find the inspiration you need to embark on your own adventure! Don't miss our upcoming episodes filled with laughter, learning, and a whole lot of inspiration.Episode Links in order of appearance:Rua Fay - The Film Blogger ConversationKeith Normand - The Bee Keeper ConversationBill Borkowski - The Blood Donor ConversationStephanie Peters - The Stand Up ConversationJohn Saccameno - The Vintage Sports Car Racer ConversationBrian Kintz - The Trivia Game Host ConversationBridget Tamilow - The Stitcher ConversationGlenn Williams - The Scale Model Builder ConversationAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

How do you react when someone pushes your buttons?  This week’s guest, author and coach, Mary Elizabeth Murphy, shares her Reset Your Buttons model to help us identify what is happening and how to respond appropriately in the moment.  Mary Elizabeth discusses each piece of the RESET model, helps us understand our personal triggers, how we can apply the RESET model and why her mission is to help people develop the introspection to respond in a way that helps us develop stronger personal and professional relationships.The uncertainty of the last few years may have taken a toll on you, your loved ones and colleagues so don’t miss this episode!Episode and Guest LinkReset Your Buttons Home PageBuy the Reset Your Buttons BookJoin the Star Resources Community to Continue Resetting Your ButtonsAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

This week’s guest, Brian Anderson, is the only full-time Tick and Lyme Disease Specialist in the US.  After seeing the devastating effects of Lyme disease, Brian has devoted several years to educating outdoor enthusiasts and outdoor workers on how to protect themselves from these little blood-sucking critters.Brian shares with us how and why he took this path, the life cycle of ticks and what to watch out for, what to do if you get bit, the difference between DEET and Permethrin to ensure you are keeping yourself, your pets and your loved ones safe while enjoying the outdoors.  Brian’s passion for educating people on Lyme disease prevention and tick safety is evident through the stories he shares, the humor he injects into the conversation and clearly represents why he’s known across the country as The Tick Terminator!Listen in to our lively conversation with Brian and yes, Maureen and Helen itched through the entire discussion!Episode and Guest LinksThe Tick Terminator WebsiteThe Tick Terminator on You TubeConnect with The Tick Terminator on LinkedInGuest Update LinksEp. 6 - The Graphic Novelist Conversation - Emma HalloranEp. 14 - The Film Blogger Conversation - Rua FayEp. 13 - The Ghost Tour Manager Conversation - Christy ParrishAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Have you ever wanted to just pack your bags and go wander around the globe?  This week’s guest, New York Times Best Selling Author and professional traveler, Heather Markel, left the safety and security of her corporate gig and did just that!  Heather shares how she prepared herself, financially and emotionally, to make the leap into exploring the unknown; what she’s learned about herself and others through her travels and why she advocates for folks over 40 to do the same, even if it's for the short term.  Being a solo, female traveler, Heather also shares safety tips for overseas travel and resources to help ensure travel scams are avoided.Through her learning process, Heather has now become an inspiration and a resource for others who aspire to live and explore a nomadic lifestyle, whether it's for a short term or a long term adventure.Episode and Guest LinkHeather Begins Home PageFollow Heather on FaceBookFollow Heather on InstagramFollow Heather on TwitterHeather Markel - The Inspired Nomads on YouTubeVoices of the 21st Century on AmazonAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Adversity can make you bitter or you can choose to let it make you better.  This week’s guest, Jaimie Shearling, has chosen to make lemonade out of the lemons life has given and she’s added a splash of vodka!She’s a cancer warrior-turned-entrepreneur helping her sister-breast cancer survivors, she has found acceptance and emotional support through her friends in the Madison Wisconsin drag community and has chronicled her journey of leaning into adversity and coming out stronger with her memoir, “From Queens to Queens:  How the Madison Drag Community Saved My Life”.Truly an inspiration for anyone handling a rough time, regardless of the circumstances!Episode and Guest LinkYou Do You Sweets Clothing LineFrom Queens to Queens: How the Madison Drag Community Saved My Life on AmazonFolllow Jaime on InstagramSupport Jaimie and her daughter Avery's Walk TeamAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Bonnie Jean Kuras, has always had a passion for helping children.  Throughout her career she’s been an educator and school administrator, seeing and experiencing more than what goes on in the classroom and on the playground.  The behind-the-scenes stressors began to affect her and those around her yet, thanks to a fateful conversation and a hard truth shared by her husband, Bonnie found a path to continue making a difference by helping children and their families deal with and recover from the effects of trauma.The important work she does as a community educator reaches beyond the children and their families and involves schools, law enforcement, caregivers, coaches, clergy and more.  She educates on the behaviors that are associated with the effects of child abuse and neglect to empower communities to spot and advocate on behalf of the children.Episode and Guest LinkThe Tedi Bear Children's Advocacy CenterAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Home Baker, Christine Crisatelli, has been at her passion and side hustle for 29 years!  Although she had a dream to own her own bakery, she is no less satisfied with continuing to pursue her baking passion from the comfort of her own kitchen.  Her love of baking and the challenges of learning new decorating techniques to keep up with current baking trends are what have kept her motivated and inspired through the years.She freely shares her passion with others which has led to some very unique opportunities like making Jon Bon Jovi his dessert after a show she attended and even getting advice on how to temper chocolate from the White House pastry chef!  Episode and Guest LinkWilton - sign up for online classes, see the latest baking trends, buy baking tools/suppliesWilton Cake Decorating YouTube Channel - basic techniques to kick up your decorating Tempering Couverture Chocolate - 3 ways to temper this high end chocolateAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

How do you cope with uncomfortable or stressful situations?  This week’s guest actor-writer-director-producer, Meirav Zur shares one of her coping mechanisms:  HUMOR.  When faced with infertility issues and struggling to talk about and share her experiences, she invited her close friends over for a night of “Wine and Hormones” and acted out what she was going through.  To her surprise, many of her friends were in similar situations and her impromptu performance opened the group up to talking and sharing a sense of relief that they were not alone.Meirav went to work developing the stage show, “Inconceivable: The Totally True, One Woman, Semi Fertile Quasi Musical”.  Winner of the 2018 Best Interactive Show at the United Solo Theater Festival, her show has received rave reviews for getting discussions about infertility going.  Listen in as Meirav shares her first “producing gig”, why performing drives her, how she wears many hats being a one-woman show and what her plans are for continuing the journey!Episode and Guest LinkMeirav's WebsiteInconceivable Show on InstagramInconceivable Show on YouTubeInconceivable Show on TikTokInconceivable Show on FacebookInconceivable Show on TwitterAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Massage Therapist, Christine Girouard, joins us this week to share why she’s passionate about helping others relax, de-stress or recover from injuries.  Through our discussion, Christine shares the benefits of massage, defines different massage techniques and identifies the time you should hold off booking a massage.Additionally, she shares how she got started in the field, tips for helping your muscles recover, what her next area of focus will be to continue helping clients and her plans for continuing to provide care and comfort to others when her massage days come to a close.  Christine’s passion for providing the proper care to ensure relaxation and overall wellness shines throughout our entire conversation!Episode and Guest LinkSpatique Day SpaUsing a Foam Roller for Muscle RecoveryCompassionate Touch for Elders ArticleAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Ep. 29 - The Custom Wood Carver ConversationThis week’s guest, Tiffany Marchand, has turned a lifelong fascination with wood carving and design into a unique business, Night Carver Designs.  Her passion for her craft is only surpassed by her energy and innovation in continuing to explore ways for sharing her skills, knowledge and creations.Join us to hear how Tiffany has practiced her craft, gives back to the “maker community” and how she has landed a hosting gig for Workbench Con!  She works a full time job, is a busy mom of two, a small business owner and custom wood carver, a podcast host and a social media presence to fellow wood carvers - this powerhouse accomplishes more by 9:00am than most, so get ready to be inspired!Episode and Guest LinkNight Carver DesignsBehind the Maker Podcast with Nickole Davis and Tiff MarchandBehind the Maker Podcast on InstagramAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Brian Kintz, Stump Trivia Game Host, joins us this week and shares how he has lived out his passion for trivia which has shaped his path to becoming a popular trivia game host over the years.  Listen in to hear how an unexpected opportunity found on Craig’s List was the first step in Brian becoming a weekly trivia host at bars and restaurants, plus emceeing corporate trivia events. We have a lot of laughs as Brian tells us how to assemble a winning trivia team, what goes into being a top notch trivia host, why he’s so passionate about what he does and he shares some funny moments he’s experienced while hosting games and announcing team standings!  We wrap up this week’s episode with Brian hosting a competitive mini-round of trivia where Maureen and Helen go head-to-head….who will win? Episode and Guest Links:Sporcle Trivia - The world’s largest trivia siteSporcle Live - Find a local game, Compete on Zoom, Schedule an event, Become a HostThe Cottage Bar - Join Brian every Wednesday at 7:00PM at the #bestweepub for Stump Trivia!Assorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Ruby Miner, Blake Barr, joins us this week to talk about his treasure-hunting hobby of mining for gems.  A lifelong geology and mining interest has driven him to learn where, how and when to search for hidden gems buried within the earth.  His adventures have taken him across the US and have led him to discovering artifacts called Guadalupe tools in addition to an assortment of precious gems and even an 83 karat sapphire!  When he and his family were looking to relocate, buying property that would enable them to continue the hunt on their own land was a big consideration.Listen in as Blake discusses how to understand where to look for precious and semi- precious gems, how to identify when you’ve actually found a gem and answers the question: How much jewelry can you get out of an 83 karat sapphire?!Episode and Guest Links:Sheffield MinesCrater of Diamonds ParkNational Geologic Maps DatabaseAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji The open-source emoji and icon project. License: CC BY-SA 4.0Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Author, Poet and Outstanding Author Award-winner of the Driftless in CT series, Dianne Bilyak, joins us this week to share her journey to writing the memoir, “Nothing Special, the Mostly True, Sometimes Funny Tales of Two Sisters”.  The stories focus on Dianne’s relationship with her older sister and their family’s dynamics.  Older sister, Christine, is a happy-go-lucky, extrovert who has Down Syndrome while introverted Diane struggles to shoulder the burdens and grief of their parents, especially their father’s alcoholism.  Dianne discusses her writing journey and the close bond she shares with her sister, explains how her writing has been cathartic and shares how the relationship with her sister has led her to become a disability advocate, highlighting changes needed based on her experiences.Episode and Guest Links:"Nothing Special" on AmazonDianne Bilyak Author page on AmazonDianne on You Tube - Nothing SpecialA Conversation Between Sisters:  Dianne and ChristineAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAssorted Conversations Podcast emoji’s designed by OpenMoji Assorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

This week’s guest, Michael Hilson Roache, AKA Chef Nupe, joins us to discuss his love of food, cooking and sharing his food experiences.  What began when a relative tried to prepare Michael to cook for himself before he went off to college has evolved into a passion he proudly shares with family and friends.Experimenting with flavors, whipping up the tried and true family recipes he grew up on and enjoying meals wherever he travels, the one constant in all of Chef Nupe’s food adventures is the bonding he enjoys with others through preparing or sharing a meal together.  Using social media to demonstrate cooking techniques, recipes and even sharing his food reviews of meals he enjoys while traveling, food and people go hand in hand for this home chef!Episode and Guest Links:Chef Nupe on YouTubeChef Nupe on TikTokAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

In honor of January being National Blood Donor Month, this week’s conversation is with guest Bill Borkowski, who has been a lifelong blood donor and as of our recording with him, has donated over 20 gallons of blood through the years.  Plus, this super-hero octogenarian has no intentions of slowing down!Bill shares how he first got involved with donating blood in the 1970’s, how the entire process has improved since he first began donating, why he makes blood donation a priority for himself and he walks us through the entire screening and donating process.  With blood supplies at their lowest in over ten years, if you’re eligible to donate blood and save lives, you're needed now more than ever and Bill is wonderful motivation to get and stay involved.  #NationalBloodDonorMonth, #NBDM, #ADRP #RedCrossEpisode and Guest Links:RedCross.org - How/Where to donate, the donation process and FAQ’s about blood donationAssociation for the Advancement of Blood and BiotherapiesAmerica's Blood CentersArmed Services Blood ProgramAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friendsAssorted Conversations Podcast Facebook CommunityA collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members             Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramMusic and Artwork CreditsMusic Credit:  True Living by Patrick MooreRoyalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.comAsAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com

Don't miss some of the funniest moments with our guests!  We're sharing bonus clips and bloopers from our 2021 episodes.  Most clips haven't aired, but we included a few that did to make you laugh all over again.  We've also got lots of our own bloopers that let you peek behind the scenes and hear our mess ups, flubs and hysterical laughter when we couldn't keep it together.We've closed out 2021, which will always stand out to us as the year we launched the podcast!  As we've shared before, we are technology-challenged middle-agers so our learning curve was steep!  We're living proof you CAN teach an "old chick" new tricks and we'll laugh all the way through the frustrations.Links to Featured Episodes:"Be bold, be blind and pursue your passion" clip from Ep. 1 - The Pilot Conversation"Memory versus Fiction" clip from  Ep. 7 - The Short Film Writer Conversation"African Peanut Soup" clip from Ep. 7 - The Short Film Writer Conversation"Sticker Shock" clip from Ep. 20 - The Scale Model Builder Conversation"The Lisp" clip from Ep. 11 - The Horror Film Writer/Director Conversation"First Time on the Racetrack" clip from Ep. 8 - The Vintage Sports Car Racer Conversation"First Erotic Short Story Inspiration" clip from Ep. 3 - The Erotica Writer Conversation"How I Spent My Quarantine" clip from Ep. 19 - The Stand Up Conversation"Jesus" clip from Ep. 19 - The Standup Conversation"Thank Her" clip from Ep.10 - The Urban Explorer ConversationBloopers from our first time recordingBloopers from trying to record our introsAssorted Conversations LinksPodcast HomepageAssorted Conversations Facebook PageStay up-to-date on podcAssorted Conversations Links Podcast Homepage Assorted Conversations Facebook Page Stay up-to-date on podcast happenings and share them with your friends Assorted Conversations Podcast Facebook Community A collaborative and supportive community for you to engage with us, our guests and other listenersShare your passion, network and connect as we all pursue what makes us happy.Exclusive behind-the-scenes content and infoSpecial online events for community members Follow us on TwitterFollow us on InstagramSupport Assorted Conversations on Buy Me a CoffeeSay hello or ask a question: aconvospod@gmail.com Credits Music Credit: True Living by Patrick Moore Royalty free music license purchased at soundotcom.com