What happens when enjoying one of your favorite hobbies turns into one of the scariest moments of your life? It becomes the inspirational source for a still-true life mantra. In the first of a two-part series honoring the 10 year anniversary of this life changing event, CH reflects on how breaking her ankle while surfing ultimately helped her form one of her most important life mantras: the strongest part is the broken part. This episode is a vivid recount of not just a physical injury, but a journey of resilience and recovery - overcoming both physical and emotional challenges. Tune in to hear about the initial incident and stay tuned for part two, which will delve into the recovery process and the lessons learned.   Show Notes The city CH was surfing at is Westport, Washington.  The surf break she was at is known as "The Jetty." More information and a visual can be found here via ExperienceWestport.com. A full list of CH's key life mantras can be found on the About section of our Web site, LifeNotesfromChair17Podcast.com.

Entrepreneur. Artist. Author. Podcaster. Optimist. Those are just a few of the words to describe Quynh Nguyen, who joins CH this week in another episode in our Share the Chair series to talk all-things resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Listen in as we delve into Quynh's self-made journey, from starting her own catering company to becoming a celebrated paper flower artist, and how she has masterfully turned her creative passions into successful businesses. It's an hour of heartfelt conversation about overcoming challenges, seizing opportunity, the importance of family and community, and celebrating the simple joy of creation.   Show Notes To learn even more about Quynh and her work as a paper flower artist and educator, visit her official site, PinkandPosey.com. Her socials include: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn.Her Paper Talk Podcast can be listened to via PaperTalkPodcast.com or on various podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Quynh's new book, "The New Art of Paper Flowers," releases on October 1, 2024. Check here to see where the book is available to preorder/order as it varies by country. In the United States, it is available for pre-order on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookshop.org, Hundson Booksellers, Powell's, Target and IndieBound. Quynh will also have an eBook release in October called "Back to the Basics." In the interim, check out her Paper Flower Blog for more information.If you are interested in learning more about the tools Quynh uses, such as Kai Scissors and Aleene's Tacky Glue, or additional resources with regards to floral paper art, visit the "Supplies and Resources" page on Quynh's Web site (located under "Paper Flower Courses" from the main menu). To watch Quynh on "CBS Sunday Morning," the episode is available via YouTube (Quynh's segment begins around the 1:45 mark).For those not familiar with farm-to-table, check out the Wikipedia entry for additional information and context.

Yoga therapy. We talked about it back in Episode 20 with our good friend Nathan, but we never thought we'd end up embracing it on our own. Join CH this week as she discusses her personal journey into yoga therapy, finding solace and healing through a tailored program, and how a personalized approach can create a supportive container for both body and mind. Whether a seasoned yoga practitioner or new to the concept of how yoga therapy differs from just doing yoga, this episode offers perspectives on integrating yoga into life for a holistic sense of well-being, and its dual benefits for physical and mental health.   Show Notes CH is currently working with good friend and Share the Chair (Episode 20) guest, Nathan Waldvogel, for her yoga therapy program.For those interested in learning more about the practice of yoga therapy you can visit Nathan's Web site: YogaHausNW.com. Information on some of the different styles of yoga, including the definition of yoga therapy, can be found on Nathan's Web site under the Yoga Styles section.

Have you ever showed up for a friend who was really going through it and just sat with them as if you were on a park bench? You didn’t offer advice or guidance, you just simply saw them, heard them and comforted them in their moment of struggle. Join CH this week as she recounts the story of when her friend, Sarah, offered this powerful form of friendship and support, and how that has further shaped CH's approach to being there for someone - without the need for words or advice - where a quiet, non-judgmental presence can make a world of difference during tough times.   Show Notes For those who may not be familiar with the term toxic positivity, you can learn more about it on VeryWellMind.com.

Sometimes, we.are.just.not.ok. No matter the day, the month, or the year. In honor of Mental Health Awareness month, join CH this week as she recounts a key time in her life where prioritizing her mental well-being took precedence over celebrating a holiday, and how that moment further shaped her approach to prioritizing mental wellness on the whole not only for herself but in support of others.   Show Notes May is Mental Health Awareness month in the United States, which has been observed since 1949 (Wikipedia).The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. Visit the official site for more information and for a wide array of mental health and substance abuse resources.The quote CH references is from the 1991 film 'Friend Green Tomatoes,' which starred Mary Stuart Masterson, Mary Louise Parker, Kathy Bates and the late Jessica Tandy.

Be kind. Be brave. Be you. Three solid life tenets from this week's Share the Chair guest, Jackie Yeaney. Having retired from official Chief Marketing Officer duties after spending over 20 years in the C-Suite space, she joins CH this week to talk all things life journey and experience - from her beginnings in the United States Air Force, to her ascendence into executive marketing leadership, to her passion and advocacy for people and possibilities. It’s a great hour of conversation covering both work/life insights and wisdoms from an executive leader who ALSO has a knack of leading through her own life.   Show Notes Jackie is actively a part of the following organizations: Talkspace (Non Executive Director)CMO Collaborative (Co-Founder)Plan International USA (Board Member)Foundation Fighting Blindness (Marketing Committee)Iridium (Non Executive Director) Jackie's LinkedIn profile is here (note: you will need a LinkedIn account to see her full profile and be able to follow her).Jackie and her husband, Eric, started Blind Ambition Fitness. The condition Eric has is called CACD - a rare form of macular degeneration (Central Areolar Choroidal Dystrophy). The Maya Angelou quote Jackie consistently leans into is: "People will forget what you did. People will forget what you said. But people will never forget how you made them feel."More information on the discussion CH and Jackie were having regarding different leadership styles as defined by distinct colors (e.g., Red, Yellow, Blue, Green) can be found on a number of Web sites and through various organizations. You can try a Google search of "What are the 4 leadership colors" if you'd like to learn more.James Lipton's Inside the Actor's Studio questionnaire, and the original Bernard Pivot/Marcel Proust versions that inspired it, can be found here. Our C17 version is our own take on these two famous questionnaires.

The parentals. The 'rents (a.k.a. parents). It often seems it is just a matter of time before we catch ourselves doing something those who raised us used to do. Or may even still do. And that may (or may not) always be the best for us. Join CH this week for a thoughtful discussion on developing a sense of our own self, and being encouraged to forge our own path of actions and behaviors, which may differ from that set down by parental figures.   Show Notes The viral video clip CH discusses in this episode, called "Cranky kid goes viral for telling it like it is," can be viewed here via YouTube shorts.

Anyone have a time machine? No ...? Well, darn. As we hit our 30th episode, we've taken a moment to reflect on the things we might go back and point out to our 30-year-old selves ... and we put it in another Top 10 list! Join CH as she rolls through the 10 key things she’d point out (and double down on) to her then self if there was a DeLorean time machine with a flux capacitor nearby (“Back  to the Future,” anyone?). And no, winning lottery numbers did not make the list.   Show Notes For those who may not be familiar with what was the nightly Top 10 List on "The Late Show with David Letterman", check out the Wikipedia summary.In the film series, "Back to the Future", a DeLorean served as the time machine in which various characters traveled both back in time AND into the future.

“Hey, I can teach you that!” Ah … the well-intentioned friend or partner who wants to help us learn the new thing we want to learn. But is that really the best way to help us be successful - whether it be a sport, a skill, an instrument? Join CH this week as she discusses the importance of finding the right environment - and teacher - to help us feel comfortable and confident in taking on a new adventure.   Show Notes CH's tips for taking on something new: Do not be afraid to turn down the offer from a friend or partner who wants to be the teacher; sometimes, learning from someone we are close to doesn't always provide the best learning environment or set us up for the right level of success.See if there is a workshop, a class, a clinic, etc. that is local to your area to enroll or participate in person; if not in person, see if is there a virtual option.If unsure about the level of skill or pre-requisites that may be required, reach out to the organization and ask so you can feel comfortable enrolling or participating; this may also include asking about a given instructor.Give yourself permission to learn at your pace; if you don't get it right away, don't get discouraged; keep at it in a way that makes you feel comfortable and successful.

Have you ever found yourself no longer as close to those you once worked with? Even when you thought they might be part of your life posse? Join CH this week as she discusses how some workplace friendships can - and will -  stand the test of time; the importance of defining camaraderie and connection on our own; and, coming to terms when the friendship exits stage left once the consistent interaction provided by the work environment is gone.   Show Notes The article CH references is on Business Insider, as told by Sylvia Duran Chen (a former Google employee), discussing how everything - including friendships - became tied to the company.

Actor. Painter. Businesswoman. All around creative spirit. In this very special Share the Chair episode, CH chats with one of her longtime inspirations, Ellie Cornell. Some might know Ellie from her portrayal of Rachel Carruthers in 'Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers' (it's our fave scary movie, what can we say.) But Ellie's artist journey has evolved to include her passion for painting. Join us as she reflects on her days as a working television and film actor (including being taken under Bill Murray's wing ... yes, that Bill Murray); her lifelong love of painting (and from her front porch, no less); connecting to Nantucket Island's spirit of place (we also share that sentiment); and, always finding a way to honor and stay true to one's creative callings (because, as she says, there is a place for all of us).   Show Notes Ellie's full list of film, television and producing credits can be found on her IMDb profile. The theatre company she had previously been a part of is  Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, Massachusetts.She also has participated in productions put on by the Theatre Workshop of Nantucket located on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Front Porch Studio is the online home of Ellie's paintings and home goods that are inspired by her long time affiliation and love of Nantucket.The book Ellie references that she reads daily is 'The Book of Awakening' by Mark Nepo.Those interested in learning more about Nantucket, Massachusetts can visit the town/county official Web site. The Nantucket lighthouses CH mentions are: Brant Point, Sankaty and Great Point (a.k.a. Nantucket Light).Young's Bicycle Shop is where CH rented both car and bike during her visits; she also stayed at Brant Point Courtyard.The Ship's Inn is the Bed & Breakfast establishment that Ellie was a  part of for over 20 years. James Lipton's Inside the Actor's Studio questionnaire, and the original Bernard Pivot/Marcel Proust versions that inspired it, can be found here. Our C17 version is our own take on these two famous questionnaires.

26 weeks. 26 episodes. We’ve reached the midpoint of our first year, so we’re celebrating our half-birthday with a thank you to all of you who are - and continuing - to tune in. Join CH as she reflects on returning to her storytelling roots, what her time as a journalism major in the Office of Communications at the University of Oregon taught her, and why really at the end of the day we just like to tell - and share - good stories as we navigate this thing called life.   Show Notes CH's alma mater is the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication.The quote CH references is from Sixth Officer James P. Moody, which was said in a letter a few years before his assignment to the RMS Titanic : "What a lot has happened since then, and what a distance I have covered." (1908)

So … how do you teach yourself to play drums without actually playing a real drum kit? You get creative - especially when rhythm is at the core of your love of music. Join CH this week as she shares the true, rather unconventional and perhaps inspiring story of her journey to becoming a drummer that began with 1) a childhood bedroom mattress; 2) assorted pillows; 3) a busted chair; 4) a set of 5A drumsticks; and, 5) a radio. (Yep, really!) And that it really is never too late to pursue a passion.   Show Notes Information on Seattle's Jazz Night School can be found on the school's official Web site.Information on The Royal Room in Seattle can be found on its official Web site.CH's local drum shop: West Coast Drum ShopThe quote CH's references is from actress Annabeth Gish: "But if you have something inside of you that is so determined to get there, that's how you're going to get there." It can be referenced in this article that was done for Duke University Baldwin Scholars.

Ah, that old saying: “Keeping up with the Joneses.” Probably isn't surprising to learn we aren't fans of this saying nor the sentiment behind it. Inspired by a recent discussion on this topic with a good friend, join CH this week as she talks about the importance of keeping up with ourselves (as opposed to everyone else), and avoiding the temptation to define our own sense of happiness and fulfillment by what others have or do.   Show Notes The Merriam-Webster definition of to "keep up with the Joneses" can be found here.

Come one, come all! It’s comic con time. Er, well … it was. Emerald City Comic Con 2024 just wrapped, and it was quite the experience - especially for a first-timer. Join CH this week as she reflects on her first adventure attending a comic con, the nerd-ery that lead her there (Jodie Whittaker anyone?), and the immense sense of kindness, inclusion and acceptance that seemed to be everything and everywhere all at once.   Show Notes To learn more about the history of comic cons, check out this Wikipedia page. CH attended the 2024 Emerald City Comic Con.She also mentioned the San Diego Comic-Con, which is one of the largest in the world. Information on Doctor Who can be found on it's official Web site.For those interested in learning more about Jodie Whittaker, check out  IMDb or Wikipedia; The gift CH gave to Jodie was on behalf of the fan run Instagram account, @jodiewhittakerfans.

“I’ll walk thru fire with you.” A great line from an upbeat song (thank you, Vicetone). Except … have you ever noticed not everyone is willing to do this? Join CH this week for a thoughtful share on the importance of finding and holding on to those who are willing to walk with us through our various life fires and help pick up the pieces when life cuts pretty deep.   Show Notes The song CH's references is "Walk Thru Fire" by Vicetone; you can check out the lyric video here on YouTube.The quote that CH references is by Chishala Lishomwa.Previous episode references: Brief Encounters (Episode 9)Living Through a Layoff (Episode 18)

It’s me ... hi ... wanna go for coffee? When was the last time we asked ourselves this question - particularly in a moment of challenge or struggle when we know something just is not right within us. Join CH this week as she expands on a notion shared in our previous episode as to the importance of checking in with ourselves when we are really going through it - whatever “it” might be. And, that the buck up buttercup approach is not necessarily the best choice when taking care of our mental health.   Show Notes For those who missed our previous episode, CH’s friend Nathan is on a journey to becoming a yoga therapist; you can learn more about him via his Web site: YogaHausNW.comThe episode of Station 19 that CH references is Episode 8 of Season 6 called “I Know a Place." The episode showcases a key chapter of Lt. Maya Bishop's mental health healing journey as portrayed by actor Danielle Savre. If interested in learning more about Station 19 and the Save Station 19 fan-led efforts, visit SaveStation19.com.

Befriending failure. Believing we are good enough. Holding space for ourselves. Just a few of the thoughtful themes that emerge from another special episode of our Share the Chair series as CH sits down with good friend, former colleague and former boss (yes, true), Nathan Waldvogel, to discuss Nathan's journey to becoming a yoga therapist. He shares his belief and vision on what he is trying to build as a practitioner, but also reflects on what it has helped him build within himself as he pursues a passion to help people discover the importance of a mind body connection as part of a journey to healing. (P.S. Cat lovers will appreciate the cat meows in the background of our conversation).   Show Notes For those interested in learning more about Nathan, his practice of yoga therapy, or to book an appointment, you can visit his Web site: YogaHausNW.com. Information on some of the different styles of yoga, including the definition of yoga therapy, can be found on Nathan's Web site under the Yoga Styles section. Information on Reiki can be found via Wikipedia. (NOTE: This is purely an informational share for those unfamiliar; it is not something Nathan is a practitioner of.)James Lipton's Inside the Actor's Studio questionnaire, and the original Bernard Pivot/Marcel Proust versions that inspired it, can be found here. Our C17 version is our own take on these two famous questionnaires.

Asking for a friend. Asking for yourself. Whatever the case may be, sometimes we just need to ask.the.question but for a variety of reasons we.just.don’t. Maybe we’ve had a bad experience. Maybe the environment isn’t a good one. Maybe we’re coming out of a situation that never allowed us to do so. Join CH this week as she discusses the importance of having the courage to ask for ourselves and for others, and the importance in having the self-awareness and ability to want to know more.

Laid off. Reduction in force. Made redundant. Words many of us never want to hear but may experience at some point during our careers - whether we are two years in, or 30 years in. Join CH this week as she reflects on some of the learnings and wisdoms from the times in which she has walked the layoff path, and finding the new door when the one behind has closed.   Show Notes CH's wisdoms to making it through a layoff: Take time to feel the feels - it's ok to grieve ... and it is 100% normal.Lean into your network for support - they are key to both processing the news and helping you get to next.Don't revenge post on social media - sharing is caring, but take a beat and do it from a POV that won't damage your own personal brand.Stay positive - don't give up on yourself or succumb to the negative self-talk track.Change is good - set yourself incremental goals, don't try to do it all at once.When one door closes another one will open - even if it may not be in the way you expect.Stay balanced - timebox the efforts to find next with that which helps keep your energy in a good place.