408: Reflections in the Frame: Motherhood, Writing, and the Stories We Carry
In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares her personal reflections on Mother's Day, her experiences at a recent writing workshop, and her thoughts on navigating complex emotions related to family and societal issues. She discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome, the significance of her blog launch, and the impact of the political climate on her life. The conversation is heartfelt and insightful, offering listeners a glimpse into Melissa's journey as a mother, writer, and individual.TakeawaysHappy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there.Imposter syndrome comes a lot for many of us.If you don't get a publisher that believes in you, there's something wrong.Mother's Day often feels heavy for those with complicated relationships.It's hard to watch the news without feeling fear about the future.I pray every day for my husband, who is an immigrant.Navigating complex emotions is part of life and motherhood.I want to keep my personal editorial style in my writing.Hope can feel paper thin some days, but we must hold on to it.Happy Mother's Day to everyone, and remember to celebrate the mothers in your life.Helpful LinksBuy Anchored in Hope https://amzn.to/438SDvDStreamyard Link for recording podcasts-https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5165316900913152Video for Bookmark https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMp3OlMahok&t=94sPocket Hugs Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ork3yZmU_IE&t=5sNewsletter sign up Mrs. Paula Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/7Ibpfu4GAXe9FDLRV1dvGG?si=qwnvWAyYQ1uPtgmtft6vJAThoughts from the Blog Cabin https://adventuresfrugalmom.com/category/thoughts-from-the-blog-cabin/
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407 : Chatting about Anchored in Hope: A Journey of Faith
In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares her personal journey of becoming a contributing author in the collaborative book 'Anchored in Hope.' She discusses the significance of sharing stories, the healing power of community, and the transformative experiences that led her to write about her own struggles with faith and resilience. The episode emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and connection in overcoming life's challenges, encouraging listeners to embrace their own stories and seek support from others.takeawaysMelissa is excited to share her collaboration in the book 'Anchored in Hope.'The book features inspiring stories of faith from various authors.Collaboration is about sharing truth and vulnerability.Melissa's chapter discusses her personal struggles and growth.The book serves as a lifeline for those facing challenges.Healing is possible through community and shared experiences.Each story in the book offers something relatable for everyone.Melissa emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself.The podcast aims to be a platform for sharing diverse voices.Listeners are encouraged to engage with the book and share their thoughts.Helpful LinksBuy Anchored in Hope https://amzn.to/3EPs4DHEpisode about Mrs. Paula https://open.spotify.com/episode/7Ibpfu4GAXe9FDLRV1dvGG?si=qwnvWAyYQ1uPtgmtft6vJAInstagram to drop me a note or tag me if you got the book https://www.instagram.com/frugalmom/
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406: Chatting about Nurturing Your Marriage in a Large Family with Andrew Paul
Andrew, a father of 10, shares his journey of balancing work and family life and the importance of seeking help and support as a father. He discusses the societal pressure on men to be strong and not show vulnerability, and how he decided to pivot and start helping other dads. Andrew emphasizes the importance of being present for his children and the positive impact it has had on their relationships. He also talks about the challenges of parenting in the age of social media and the need to limit exposure and create screen-free evenings. Andrew shares his insights on budgeting, supporting local farmers, and finding time for his marriage amidst a large family.TakeawaysBeing a good father and provider doesn't mean sacrificing your own well-being and neglecting your family. It's important to find a balance.Men often struggle to ask for help and show vulnerability due to societal expectations. However, seeking support and guidance can lead to personal growth and stronger relationships.Limiting exposure to social media and creating screen-free evenings can improve family dynamics and mental well-being.Supporting local farmers and eating wholesome foods can have a positive impact on health and well-being.Finding time for your marriage is crucial, and being intentional about spending quality time together is key.Sound Bites"In order to be a good dad and a good husband and provider was to work both ends of the clock.""The teacher is lot of times the one that gets the best lesson.""We limit their exposure. It's a critical... This one actually kind of gets me because I get sucked into that same vortex."Helpful LinksFacebook https://www.facebook.com/apknows?mibextid=ZbWKwLWebsite https://andrewpaulskoog.com/
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405: From Farm to Pharma: A Journey of Health Innovation with Alex Martinez
In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, the host engages in a deep conversation with Alex, a CEO in the pharmaceutical industry, about the gut microbiome and its significance in health. Alex shares his unique journey from growing up on a farm to becoming an entrepreneur focused on natural health solutions. He discusses the importance of human milk oligosaccharides in restoring gut health and the challenges faced in the pharmaceutical industry regarding natural compounds. The conversation also touches on the need for funding and support for innovative research in the field of chronic diseases. In this conversation, the speaker discusses the importance of gut health and the role of functional medicine in restoring the gut ecosystem. They highlight the detrimental effects of antibiotics on gut bacteria, the significance of dietary fiber, and the need for self-care in health management. The speaker shares personal experiences related to parenting and nutrition, emphasizing the differences in food standards between Europe and the US. They also address the challenges of weight loss medications and provide practical steps for improving gut health, including the importance of sleep and hydration. The conversation concludes with a focus on finding personal motivation for health changes.TakeawaysThe gut microbiome is an ecosystem within our body.Nature provides solutions for health challenges.Personal health journeys can inspire professional paths.Human milk oligosaccharides are crucial for gut health.Research is essential for developing natural health solutions.The pharmaceutical industry often overlooks natural compounds.Funding is critical for innovative health research.Chronic diseases require a new perspective on treatment.Safety is a major concern in drug development.Understanding the microbiome can transform healthcare. A functional medicine approach aims to restore the gut ecosystem.Bifidobacterium play a crucial role in gut health.Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.Dietary fiber is essential for gut health; most adults fall short.Making dietary changes can be done immediately at home.Self-care and empowerment are key in health management.Personal experiences can shape our understanding of nutrition.European food standards are often stricter than those in the US.Weight loss medications may have undesirable side effects.Hydration and sleep are critical for overall health.Helpful LinksWebsite: www.intrinsicmedicine.com
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404: Chatting about Unstoppable: A Journey of Perseverance with Matthew Kenslow
In this episode of 'Chats from the Blog Cabin', host Melissa interviews Matthew, an inspiring individual with autism who has pursued his dream of becoming a teacher and author. Matthew shares his journey, discussing the challenges he faced, the importance of perseverance, and how he aims to motivate others on the autism spectrum. He reflects on his experiences in the classroom, the impact of his teaching, and the rewarding feeling of encouraging students. Matthew also reads an excerpt from his book 'Unstoppable', detailing his final lesson as a student teacher and the significance of his journey in writing the book. In this conversation, the speaker shares their journey as a worldwide influencer advocating for autism awareness and inclusion. They discuss the challenges faced in education, the importance of faith and resilience, and the rewarding experience of teaching and mentoring others with autism. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, acceptance, and the power of community support in overcoming obstacles.Key TakeawaysMatthew's journey to becoming a teacher began at a young age.Autism is a spectrum, and Matthew identifies as level one.Perseverance is key in overcoming challenges and achieving dreams.Matthew's faith played a significant role in his motivation.Teaching has allowed Matthew to connect with students and inspire them.He faced many roadblocks but continued to seek opportunities to teach.COVID-19 provided new avenues for teaching through online platforms.Matthew's videos have helped others with autism feel encouraged.He emphasizes the importance of purpose and passion in life.Writing his book was a way to share his story and motivate others. I always wanted to teach about autism awareness and acceptance.Autism is not a disability; it's a different way of functioning.Inclusion means being in the same classroom with peers.I've seen a lot of inclusion in recent years.I feel blessed to be in a school district that accepts me.My faith helps me hold on to my purpose.I will succeed; it may take a while.Start conversations to learn about each other.Mentoring others with autism gives me purpose.California has a lot of acceptance for people with differences.Helpful LinksYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@matthewkenslow722 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew_kenslow/Grab Unstoppable https://amzn.to/41728e0
Come join Melissa and her guests on the Chats from the Blog Cabin Podcast! From North Carolina, this podcast will have you feeling like you've known these folks for years. Listen in as they chat about life, culture, current events, and more - all with a special Southern flair! Curl up with your favorite beverage and get ready to be entertained. Tune in now for a unique experience that's fun and insightful!