I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Roland – Gib – Stewart.  He is amazing !  It seems like everything he touches turns to gold. His book - Learn Apply and Grow Rich shows how he started with $285 and grew it to $30 million. He went through a divorce and started again. hurts but then you need to get off the ground and decide What's Next? Next goal $100 million. Currently forming partnerships to make it happen. Life is good!He has helped many people to become millionaires and helped many, many more to find their next job or their next dire --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke with Karen Connell - she had laryngitis however we rallied on. Karen is a domestic abuse surviver. Her story is below, and her story is fascinating. She is an incredible woman. Her website is https://kaconnellauthor.com, and a bit of her biography is below, direct from her website:. -------------- My name is Karen Connell, and I am a domestic violence survivor. I became an author and speaker to document and share my story, which could help others get out of domestic violence situations and get on with their lives. I endured years of physical and emotional abuse. My story is heartbreaking, powerful, and inspiring at the same time and tells everyone that it is possible to overcome the trauma of domestic violence. She is incredible. If you are a victim of domestic violence, please reach out. There are resources --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke to Lee Whittaker about his latest movie, The Vigilante, now available on TUBI TV. Lee is a talented action film director, writer, producer and stunt coordinator, who started his career with George Lucas in Japan. He has over 20 years of experience in action and second unit directing in blockbuster and international films. Our podcast, however, covered a darker subject. Lee’s recent film, The Vigilante, is about the child trafficking epidemic.  I had always thought this was confined to the Middle east. Unfortunately, This is a world wide issue and prevalent in the United States. Girls and boys as young as 8 are being kidnapped, sold, and trafficked into the sex trade.   If you see something, say something – especially if you suspect a neighbor, friend, schoolmate – anyone – of being trafficked. There are many organizations that help with recovery and rehabilitation, including A.R.C., and O.U.R. Also, a google search will show many resources.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

Soccer player, businessman, former military commander, pilot and super interesting man – That is Nick Haritatos!  I don’t even know where to begin with Nick.  He is absolutely incredible. His book – No Limits – is a best seller, and talks about his life in Greece, South Africa and Southern California.  Nick’s father owned a bakery, which – you must read the book – saved his father’s life.  Nick was born in Greece, and as a child survived gangrene.  He built a car – not a go cart but a sedan type children’s car when he was young, a rusty nail pierced his legs, and, afraid to tell his mother, suffered through the pain.   Because of the political issues in Greece, his family moved to Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. Nick, as a teen, he opened his own business, and subsequently, and opened several more business, including a drive in movie, but not what Americans view as a drive in movie. This business had everything – a play area for children, a bar for the adults and more.  He met his late wife, Anne, during this time.   From Rhodesia he and Anne relocated to Durbin, South Africa.  He started another business, learned how to fly, and started their family. Nick and Anne have three children, who are involved in Nick’s businesses.   Political unrest in South Africa brought him and his family to San Diego.  AND – he started several businesses in San Diego. He also walked the California Trail with several friends – a 16 year incredible journey!  Nick is a fascinating person, and I learned a lot just talking with him, and reading his book – NO LIMITS, available on Amazon. Nick’s email is nolimitsbynick@gmail.com. His book is the perfect XMAS present, in a gift basket with wine, bread and cheese. Not only will Nick’s incredible business savvy – everything he touches turns to gold – amaze you, his life is incredible.    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently had the pleasure of speaking to Jasper Cole, and we had a lot of fun. He is an interesting and funny guy. We spoke about everything from his series Kombucha Cure, to the American medical system, to weather!  In Kombucha Cure, Jasper co-stars as "Theo" in this dark comedy, currently on Amazon Prime and Pop Star TV. Jasper also currently co-stars in the new Lions Gate hit Thriller, Fall. Jasper plays "Cory Black" on the hit BET series, The Family Business, opposite Ernie Hudson. He was awarded Best Screen Villain by the International Nollywood Film Festival for that role. He was also awarded Best Supporting Actor and the series has won 45 awards so far, including a Telly Award for Best Series. AND - Jasper also plays "Jaggar" in Season 2 of the hit Amazon comedy series, Smothered. Jasper has appeared in dozens of theatrical productions and national TV commercials and has Guest Starred on some of television's top shows, including, C.S.I., Married With Children, Saved By The Bell, Touched by An Angel, Party Of Five, La Femme Nakita, Tales From The Crypt, Baywatch, Pacific Blue and Clueless. More recently, Jasper has obtained critical acclaim for his work on Michael Eisner's Emmy Nominated series, Prom Queen, his unforgettable stint on Everybody Hates Chris and his recurring role on the ABC series, The Forgotten. He has also guest starred on HBO's hit series Funny Or Die Presents. Jasper has done everything!  He can be heard on his podcast, One on One with Jasper Cole, and is on all social media sites. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke with Jenny Rook. And she has a story. Jenny is a mental health advocate and writer, and has three golden retrievers! That alone makes life good. Jenny Rook was born in Essex, UK and educated at York University, where she graduated with  a degree in English and Music. Studying the greats of literature called a halt to a burgeoning desire to write.    After various adventures in the scrap trade, in bookselling, helping run an employment agency, and having children, she settled back into her first love, writing. Her first book Fly By Night (1989) was accepted by the first publisher she sent it to. This was the first of a fantasy trilogy and Headline wanted all three.  All her fiction books were published under the name Jenny Jones. Two adult ghost story novels followed, Where the Children Cry and The Blue Manor, both of which were published by Gollancz. Five other fantasy/horror books for teenagers were published by Scholastic, Penguin, and Orion.   In 2006 Jenny qualified as a psychoanalytic psychotherapist for children and their families. She worked mainly for the National Health Service and also volunteered for Sure Start before taking early retirement to look after her elderly mother.  Jenny now lives with her husband, mother and three dogs in the Cotswolds. ------------------------  Below is an excerpt from her latest book “The Book of the Sun”. ‘Are these my thoughts or yours?’ I asked. ‘It doesn’t matter,’ the Sun replied. ‘You are me and I am you… The Book of the Sun concerns the structure of the living universe, why it is so difficult here, and why we should all began to realise that we are all one, and yet diverse at the same time. It answers many questions that have concerned minds throughout the millennia. Why are we here? Why is there suffering? What is the future for us? These questions and many more are answered.  Her website is www.jennyrook.com.   I know you will enjoy this podcast and Jenny's books!   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke to Nancy Bordine (Bissonette) about her recently published children’s book, "What Do You See? Her book beautifully celebrates cultures and abilities. A perfect picture book to start or continue the conversation about diversity and inclusion, while celebrating the arts through a variety of colorful quilt patterns. There is an endless opportunity for classroom discussions and art projects sparked by this simple, but powerful book.”   Nancy’s website has a blend of parent/teacher resources, and her blog focuses on compassion and tolerance. Nancy is an RN who has worked in the mental health field and now provides foot care for the homeless. Her website is: missnancywrites.com and she can be contacted through the website.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke to Rick DellaRatta with Jazz for Peace. Rick is a fellow Italian New Yorker (Yeah!), and musician. He is a singer/songwriter and is fascinating. He explained how Jazz for Peace has grants, and the work they have done in Africa. And - we had the pleasure of listening to him play some original music. His contact info is: https://jazzforpeace.org and https://rickdellaratta.com You will like what you hear !! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I re-edited my interview with Frank Greenfield and this is a polished - well - more polished edit! Frank is so amazing - he's a musician and has done everything. He is with Family of Funk, and will have an EDM version of some of their music. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I ran into Abira from Little Women of Atlanta a few days ago. We had a ten minute conversation at a press party. Abira is a lot of fun - we talked about life in general. She is visiting Los Angeles for a few days, and is living life to the fullest. Tune in to LIttle Women of Atlanta and watch her. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke with actor/writer/producer Michael Levine. We spoke about his newest projects, and his production company. His website is monkeymanproductions.com He's got a story to tell. You will like what you hear :) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I had the pleasure of speaking with Harley Wallen recently, and we had a lot of fun talking, looking at our animal pictures (he's got a dog that looks like mine! and he has cats), and learning about his newest project, Ash and Bone, now available on VUDU and how he got into entertainment. His bio is below: Harley is a multi award-winner and has starred in over 40 feature films and TV shows with legendary stars such as Tom Sizemore, Tara Reed and John Savage among many others. He started his journey as a Martial Artist early with Judo at age 7 and is now a 5th degree black belt. Harley also spent time learning other arts (Jiu-Jitsu, Tae Kwon - Do black-belts as well) and Mixed Martial Arts. His other love at a young age was dance as he was an outstanding break dancer in his teen years. His sheer talent and skill is what landed him his first opportunity in acting as a dancer at the syndicated Swedish TV cult hit 'Solstollarna'! Soon after, he realized he was bitten by the acting bug. Harley then moved from Sweden to the United States to boldly pursue his dreams. After a short stint these plans got sidetracked by business opportunities as Harley climbed various career ladders. After returning to acting, it wasn't long before the roles started coming and the growth he had experienced in the business world started happening to him in the acting world. After the film incentives ended in Michigan, he decided to start making films of his own. Not having a film school background with only limited experience, he decided to go online to further his education in filmmaking and took several more classes and seminars in acting. Finally in 2016 Harley and his wife Kaiti formed the film production company 'Painted Creek Productions'. The one thing he really takes pride in is his commitment to the character he is playing regardless the size of the role or the paycheck. Harley is now writing, producing, acting and directing and has found his life's purpose.  Harley can be found on IMDB, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Mirav and three of her protégés and they have a story. Jane – Lives in England Jola – Lives in New Jersey, originally from Poland Tasha – Lives in New Orleans   Jane Anderson, whose book “Growing up on a Farm” will be released in May 2023.  It details her life growing up, the hardships, etc.  Jola, currently living in New Jersey just published “From Impossible to I’m Possible”, written in 4 days!  It is now a best seller. Her website is: coachingjourneywithjola.com Tasha, a former speech pathologist, currently lives in New Orleans. Tasha has lived in Dubai, New York and other areas. And – of course – Mirav, who arranged this get together. All three ladies are on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.  You will have to listen to get all their details. We had a lot of fun talking. It felt like everyone was at the dining table, sipping wine and just having a great time being together.  And we did!  Our plan is to meet in New York, go out for cocktails and do the town.  Come join us on the journey, and have fun listening to the podcast! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Claudia, and we had fun! She is a native New Yorker with a great sense of humor and funny as all heck. We laughed, cried, laughed some more, talked about our similar backgrounds, and surviving catholic school.  I don't usually talk about religion, but wow - we had stories. SOOOO - Claudia’s background was corporate – she was in the beauty industry for years, and was burned out. She had visited Jerusalem and had a spiritual awakening.  You have to listen to hear her story.  Claudia recently published a book – My Wall is Red – A Memoir of Discovery, currently available on Amazon. Her website is www.claudiadi.com and her podcast, available on Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever podcasts are heard, is C & C chatchat (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/c-c-chatchat/id1640325734).   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke to Sarah Fast – and she’s got a story - several stories!  She recently published her 3rd book, which is available on Amazon. Sarah’s career started with a degree in psychology and criminal justice.  She worked in a juvenile facility and we spoke about some of her experiences working there. We went off topic many times and just had fun. Awaken You is the ultimate self-help and inner awakening guide for those who crave to embody the life they love to wake up to everyday! In this exciting experience of shifting and aligning to what you desire, Sarah will show you how to increase your energetic frequency and manifest the life of your dreams. Each chapter is infused with awakening energy, inner power, and light that will support you as you transform your life from the inside out. By the end of Awaken You, you will tap into a deeper knowing and trust of who you are and what you came here to do.  You will feel awakened, unstoppable and ready to kick fear in the butt! Sarah can be found on Facebook and Instagram at Awaken You Coaching.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I had the pleasure of speaking with Renate recently. We had so much fun – I even left in the blooper in the beginning ! We talked about everything - went off topic and just had a blast. Renate currently lives in Singapore. She is originally from Austria. She shares her journey that brought her to Singapore. She is a best selling author, life mastery mentor and high performance coach. Her website is https://renateprandl.com which describes here proven system. She can: Shift your mindset Clarify your mission Design your moves Step out of Pain into your Power and become the best version of yourself. Check out her website, and register for a class. You will like the results ! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I recently spoke with Dr. Frieda Wiley and it was incredible. Dr. Wiley has an incredible background, and was a lot of fun to talk to. She is a bestselling author, award-winning medical writer, and journalist who solves communications problems for her clients, one word at a time. She also just happens to be a licensed pharmacist and former chemist with an alphabet soup of letters behind her name (if she actually used them all). But don’t let that mislead you: She is a writer at heart. She has been writing pretty much as long as she can remember and won her first writing award in the first grade and published a poem in the fifth grade. You could probably say she considers herself a writer first and a scientist second. Interestingly enough, she accidentally “fell” into technical writing after college: Her first real job out of school was working as a chemist for an aerospace company whose main customer was the United States Navy. In that role, writing typically meant drafting a lab report, drawing up work orders, or tweaking a standard operating procedure. A few years later, her path became clear when she published her first magazine article and some marketing materials while still in pharmacy school: She wanted to write. Today, she draws from her diverse professional experiences in chemistry, the pharmaceutical industry, and pharmacy practice to produce content in plain language as well as in complex jargon for scientific and medical professionals. She enjoys her work and believes it illustrates her commitment to serving others by crafting meaningful content that engages readers. All I can say is – she is amazing! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I had the pleasure of speaking with Miles Dalton again. Miles is a writer, director and actor and has got the sexiest voice ever. On this podcast, we talk about unrealistic goals in the entertainment industry, including the drug and alcohol use. Around the 25 minute mark, we discuss the equally unrealistic goals set for women in the entertainment industry. The norm used to be stick thin women with poufy lips. Thankfully, that’s changing. You will like what you hear. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

Derek reached out to me this morning, and we did two interviews.  He interviewed me, and then I interviewed him!   We have mutual connections, and unique backgrounds.  We had a lot of fun, spoke about the Dhar Mann issues, and connected.  Fun times ! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support

I had the pleasure of speaking again with LaJune Singleton recently, and we had fun catching up. LaJune is an incredible health and nutrition coach, lifestyle coach and author. She is a Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, and provides the tools you need to redefine your mind so that you can create the space necessary for important positive shifts in your health and wellness. In November and December of 2022, she had zoom meetings about breaking bad habits.   Her first book, Releasing my Trauma – the Root of Self-Sabotage, can be found everywhere books are sold, and her second book, to be released soon, is called My Daddy is My Angel. After our first podcast, LaJune inspired me to lose some of the weight I gained during quarantine and when I let her know on LinkedIn, she was extremely supportive!   The below is taken directly from her website: HOW I WILL ASSIST YOU WITH IMPROVING YOUR BOARD CERTIFIED HEALTH AND WELLNESS As your BOARD CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH, here are the TOP FIVE areas I will coach you in: 1. IDENTIFYING YOUR HEALTH VISION AND GOALS SO YOU CAN GET FOCUSED 2. CREATING A DETAILED ACTION PLAN FOR ACHIEVING YOUR HEALTH GOALS 3. KEEPING YOU ACCOUNTABLE TO ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS 4. CELEBRATING YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS AS YOU REACH IMPORTANT MILESTONES 5. PROVIDING ONGOING SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT AS YOU NAVIGATE THE PROCESS LaJune’s contact information is: www.lajunesingleton.com www.instagram.com/iamlajunesingleton www.linkedin.com/in/lajune-singleton and a youtube achannel – you will have to google that one! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michelemarotta/support