Stories From Women Who Walk

Hello to you listening where your feet touch the ground! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey Christmas Day and your host, Diane Wyzga. Years ago I learned to tell this story by heart because it became extra special to me when I was dating a fellow named Alan who took me on a cross-country skiing weekend at the Garnet Hill Lodge in upstate New York. Since then not a Christmas goes by that I don’t get to tell it in domestic abuse shelters, libraries, family gatherings, anywhere that story is welcome. So settle in all comfy and listen.From my home here on Whidbey Island to you where your feet touch the ground I wish you and yours a time to celebrate our hearts growing three sizes this day! Let us be of Love a little more careful than anything else this Season! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack, LinkedIn, and now on Pandora RadioStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello, to you listening in Parramatta, Australia!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.No matter who you are, where you are, and how you are celebrating (or not) the various end-of-year holidays, this remains - if we make it so - the Season of Love. Let’s be of Love a little more careful than anything else just now. Together if we practice Each One Lift One we will be better for it. Guaranteed! Question: What might happen when we practice "Each One Lift One"?You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack, LinkedIn, and now on Pandora RadioStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Estacada, Oregon!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently I had the privilege of sharing the mic with my friend and colleague, Deborah Kevin of STORYTELLHER podcast to delve into the profound connections between our personal stories, values, and identities as women. Have you ever questioned the origin of your story and how it defines you? Perhaps you’ve felt detached from your own narrative. If you’re curious about how to reclaim and resonate with your true self, this episode is for you!What to expect in this episode:• How Diane's experiences in law school helped her develop confidence.• The transformative power of storytelling and the interconnectedness of human experiences.• What does "be your story" mean, and how does this concept relate to your identity?• A method to help women reconnect with their values and purpose as women.Watch and/or listen to the full episode on these platforms:YouTubeiTunes Podcast Spotify Amazon Music CONTACT Deborah KevinChief Inspiration Officer, Highlander Presstel: 410-627-9670website: www.highlanderpressbooks.come-mail: [email protected]: https://www.youtube.com/@DeborahKevinAuthor You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack, LinkedIn, and now on Pandora RadioStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in The Bronx, New York City, New York!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.There are promises we make and promises we break; but for those promises we keep there are untold joys we could not have imagined. As in this story. Settle in to listen. This could happen to you.A Christmas Love Story Story Prompt: A promise is a promise. When did you keep a promise that turned out even better than you could have imagined? Write that story! 60 Seconds is your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that. This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you’ll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You’re invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story Arts✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Lake Villa, Illinois!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more) for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.As the old ones say, “If we are not grateful for what we have in this present moment, what makes us think we will be happy with more?” Maybe it’s true and maybe it isn’t but long ago and far away there lived a man in a small country village. He had everything he had ever asked for: friends, livelihood, wife, family - and yet and yet something was stirring in him: Looking around he asked himself, Is this all there is? Perhaps he was meant for something more. Perhaps he should go and seek it.One summer morning he left his home, carefully closed the garden gate behind him and walked away. He walked for miles and miles until he could no longer see where he had been. Night fell and he found himself deep in a dark forest. Having no other shelter he took off his shoes, spread his coat on the ground, and fell asleep against the trunk of a tree for he was very tired.Watching him sleep his angel shook her head at the folly of his adventure. But what could she do? She could turn his shoes around facing them back in the direction from which he came. And so she did.When the man awoke he pulled on his coat, put his feet into his shoes and began to walk. After many miles of walking the man began to see familiar fields, a few farmhouses, a village - all looking very much like what he had left; but how could that be? People in the village market greeted him as if he was familiar to them; but how could that be? Arriving at a cottage with a garden gate he was startled to be greeted by children and a woman as if he were their long lost father and husband; but how could that be? They welcomed him inside, took off his shoes, sat him at a table very much like one he knew, fed him food that tasted like home; but how could that be?To this very day the man lives with that family in that home in that village and wonders, if this isn’t happiness, what is? Practical Tip: As the old ones say, “If we are not grateful for what we have in this present moment, what makes us think we will be happy with more?” 60 Seconds is your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that. This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you’ll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You’re invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story Arts✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Lake Chelan, Washington!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga. Unpacking boxes of Christmas decorations the other day I came upon a faded red folder I had first received in early December of my freshman year when I was away at college. It held faded multi-colored sheets of construction paper. On a side of each one was carefully glued the face of a re-purposed Christmas greeting card and under each card was text in mom’s careful Palmer style handwriting. A poem, a quote, a few favorite remembered lines. The cover sheet reads: “Kris Kringle Vitamins One-a-Day Brand. Take 1 while supplies last.” It was mom’s way of helping me prepare for the Christmas Season so I didn’t get lost in the bright lights of the HoliDazed. This is the verse I read today:“The weakest among us has a gift, however seemingly trivial, which is peculiar to him, and which worthily used, will be a gift to his race forever.”Question: What particular gift of yours will be a gift to your race forever? 60 Seconds is your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that. This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you’ll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You’re invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story Arts✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Madrid, Spain!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.It’s that time of year when it feels like the hurrier we go the behinder we get. I have a solution for you. For just a moment let’s breathe and practice keeping still with Pablo Neruda. KEEPING QUIET Now we will count to twelveand we will all keep stillfor once on the face of the earth,let’s not speak in any language;let’s stop for a second,and not move our arms so much. It would be an exotic momentwithout rush, without engines;we would all be togetherin a sudden strangeness. Fishermen in the cold seawould not harm whalesand the man gathering saltwould look at his hurt hands. Those who prepare green wars,wars with gas, wars with fire,victories with no survivors,would put on clean clothesand walk about with their brothersin the shade, doing nothing. What I want should not be confusedwith total inactivity.Life is what it is about;I want no truck with death. If we were not so single-mindedabout keeping our lives moving,and for once could do nothing,perhaps a huge silencemight interrupt this sadnessof never understanding ourselvesand of threatening ourselves with death. Perhaps the earth can teach usas when everything seems deadand later proves to be alive. Now I’ll count up to twelveand you keep quiet and I will go." [by Pablo Neruda]Translation of this poem by Pablo Neruda is by Alistair Reed60 Seconds is your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that. This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you’ll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You’re invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story Arts✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Millinocket, Maine!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday.In 1955 she sewed a sack out of old denim and stuffed it with “a blanket, a plastic shower sheet, a cup, a canteen and baby bottle for water, a small pot, a spoon, a Swiss Army knife, a first-aid kit, pins, flashlight, a piece of rope, a raincoat, a warm coat, a change of clothes and Keds sneakers.” She set out from her home in Ohio telling her children she was going for a walk. And walk she did. 2,050 miles. Alone. On the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. Her diet for the most part was raisins, nuts, chicken bouillon cubes, berries and leaves she found along the way. Her bed was often a pile of leaves, a picnic table, maybe a stranger’s barn or porch. After 5 months in the wilderness Grandma Emma Gatewood reached Mount Katahdin, Maine. She was 67 years old.Not one to retire, Gatewood returned to thru-hike the AT again; she was 69 years old. Several years later she hiked the trail for a third time, in sections. This wasn’t the end of her walking; more like the beginning.Question: What wonderful longing beckons you to begin? 60 Seconds is your daily dose of hope, imagination, wisdom, stories, practical tips, and general riffing on this and that. This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you’ll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You’re invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story Arts✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Yamaguchi, Japan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and closer to 9 minutes) for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Maybe it’s true and maybe it isn’t, but long ago and far away there lived a fisherman and his wife. ......For more, tune in to listen - this could happen to you. Story Prompt: When has something or someone wonderful come to you unexpectedly during a time of loss, or sadness or despair and that turned everything around? Write that story! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Skagit Valley, Washington! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Decades ago when I was in college in New England and mom was a teacher in New Jersey she would mail items of interest, comic strips, bits of this and that she expected I might enjoy. I still have this poem typed on a faded green sheet of paper and mailed during the Advent Season. Why am I sharing it with you? Regardless of our religious beliefs, creeds, leanings, and so on, one can’t help but wonder about the story they say took place some 2,000 years ago. Mom's PoemYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Morden, Manitoba Canada!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more)for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane WyzgaIt’s been years and years but I’ve never forgotten that moment in time when my baby brother, Paul and I were in the kitchen washing up the dishes after Easter Sunday dinner at the family home. I was riding high then, flush with success in Lightning Rod Communications, my nationally-recognized litigation consulting firm. I had been going on and on about the good work I was doing, the income I was earning, and so on and so forth, as we do, when he asked me: “But are you flourishing?”Interesting word, flourishing, from the Latin & Old French meaning to blossom, to flower, to grow. I forget what I said in response; but my long ago answer doesn’t matter because his question keeps coming around: "Are you flourishing?"Some of you might feel frustrated that I’m not offering an answer, maybe feel I’m holding back something of myself. The truth of it is my answer today is my clue to finding another hidden treasure in my Origin Story.Question: What about you? Where and how are you flourishing? And, if not, how will you create the conditions to flourish?CTA: Consider beginning with your Origin Story: how you got from There to Here and why that matters. As you learn to say what you mean and mean what you say your story will leverage your business, bring your wisdom and experiences to bear, and offer a guiding light to other women who are ready to create and share their Origin Story. If you need a hand up, let’s have a short Meet & Greet conversation. DM me on LinkedIn or email me at [email protected]’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn and as "Wyzga on Words" on SubstackStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Santiago, Chile, S. America!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I cobbled together a short list of questions to muse upon as I go walking for the hope, comfort and healing the answers might reveal to me. Perhaps they would be of use to you:1. What dreams did I manifest today?2. Where did my eyes linger?3. Where was I blind?4. How could I have risked something different?5. What charmed me?Question: What have you been musing on to comfort, heal and be of hope? Email me at [email protected] to share your thoughts. You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with Diane as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack and on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Warsaw, Poland!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently, I had the pleasure of sharing the mic with my Canadian friend and colleague Beverley Glazer of Reinvent Impossible, Inc. who helps “woman over 50 discover their true purpose, to reinvent themselves and live a life with meaning, passion, and fulfillment.” Together Beverley and I are helping women who desire to rewrite their narrative, speak their truth, and discover just how influential their Origin Story can be for beginning anew, human connection, engagement, and leadership.If you are curious about exploring courage, resilience, and the undeniable ripple effect of embracing all the potential that is your origin story, to connect more deeply with yourself and others this episode is for you! Join us and be inspired!Highlights:• Diane's resilient journey from incest survivor to professional story activist wielding her voice as a tool for change;• The unstinting pursuit of engagement and authenticity in a world that often encourages women to be anything but;• The crucial role of reclaiming your voice no matter what you're going through;• How overcoming personal challenges and fears can lead to a life filled with adventure and purpose; and• How storytelling is not JUST expression, but a powerful medium that can have incredible impact.Click HERE to listen to our conversation on AppleClick HERE to listen to our conversation on SpotifyPlease be sure to spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment; it helps us all.ResourcesBeverley Glazer MA., ICCAC“Create a life you love.”Premier Custom Coaching Solutions for Business & LifeReinvent Impossible, Inc.: https://reinventimpossible.com/Schedule a conversation: https://calendly.com/reinventimpossiblePodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aging-with-purpose-passion/id1562514982E-mail: [email protected]: 1-514-288-1891 You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you please subscribe, spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Opt In to my Every Now and Again NewsAudioLetter for bonus gift, valuable tips & techniques to enhance your story work , and✓ Stay current with Diane on Substack (Wyzga on Words) and on LinkedIn Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Limassol, Republic of Cyprus!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.My friend and colleague SB Rawz writes a wonderful column in Substack, DeathnStuff. Recently she suggested that her readers: Take a moment to answer a question and tuck your response somewhere you’ll be sure to find it in 365 day’s time. The question is: What would you want your Future Year You to know about the You of Right Here and Right Now?This is what I wrote: “That I had the heart to say what I mean, and mean what I say, know what I stand for, what I won't stand for, add to the peace, not go to war, and that life is all about falling apart and coming together in a never-ending cycle if I just give it room - all of it - fear and grief, joy and relief. I’m grateful to be living in my "MiddleEarthAge." Story Prompt: What would you want your Future Year You to know about the You of Right Here and Right Now? Write that story! And read it in 1 year’s time.You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in The Hague, the Netherlands!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Who is Saint Nicholas? Little is known about the historical Saint Nicholas who was born during the third century in the village of Patara in Asia Minor on what is now the southern coast of Turkey. Click to learn more.The earliest accounts of his life were written centuries after his death. But it is believed the life and deeds of St. Nicholas gave rise to the Christmas character we know as Santa Claus. Click to learn more.For decades my family has celebrated December 6th as the Feast of Saint Nicholas; a reminder that Christmas is on its way and someone is watching us - from a distance - to be sure we stay on the nice side of naughty. On the night of December 5th each child put a pair of shoes outside their bedroom door. On the morning of the 6th there was a small gift left by Saint Nicholas himself, reminding us to be of love a little more careful than anything else this season. Question: What family tradition do you continue at this time of year? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in the Great State of Washington!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane WyzgaOrcas are an integral part of my life on Whidbey, in particular the Southern resident orcas pods. Our Langley Whale Center celebrates and shares the lives of orcas, as well as gray whales, humpbacks, and other marine mammals of the Salish Sea. Volunteers regularly share sightings and soundings of this much loved and revered mammal iconic to the Salish Sea and the Pacific NorthwestI’m delighted to share a moving short film capturing the essence of Tribute to the Orca, an Indigenous-centered public event that took place during Orca Action Month (June 2024) at the Seattle Aquarium. The short film was produced by Se’Si’Le, an Indigenous-led nonprofit organization based in Bellingham who collaborated with Salish Sea and Northern Straits Native Nations and NGOs to host Tribute to the Orca.All Our Relations: Tribute to the Orca delivers powerful voices of regional Indigenous leaders delivering somber and urgent narratives. The short film highlights Indigenous communities' ancient kinship with orcas and salmon, and the importance of reciprocity in our relationship with our caretaker: Mother Nature. A special focus is on the Southern Resident orcas whose survival, like the survival of Indigenous lifeways here in the Pacific Northwest, depends on scha’enexw (the Salmon People). Click to watch on VIMEO EPISODE NOTESLearn more here: Columbia Snake River CampaignQuestions to ponder to support your activism: Jay Julius, Se’Si’Le co-founder and board president, who spoke at the Tribute event, introduces the film: “I am a Lummi Indian, a fisherman, a father, and, like all my people, a relative of Sk’aliCh’elh (the Southern Resident Killer Whales). I am President of Se’Si’Le that helped make possible the June 12, 2024 Tribute to the Orca. This video is based on that gathering where Indigenous voices honored an obligation to our endangered relatives. We ask, ‘Who has the moral authority to permit their extinction?’ We wonder, ‘What can be more grievous than watching the last of our relatives go under the waves for the last time?’ The speakers at the gathering shared a sense of urgency and empathy, heartbreak and hope, anger, anguish, and a call for action. We ask you to take to heart their words and the suffering of these dear ones, and take action now in the spirit of right and respectful relations with the Creation.” - W’tot lhem (Jay Julius)CTA: After watching the film, please take the next step and act! Urge your policymakers to recommit to upholding treaty rights and support tribal leadership in developing comprehensive solutions in the Salish Sea and the Columbia-Snake River Basin to protect salmon and orcas from extinction. You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Stockholm, Sweden!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I have walked, bathed and rested in many forests. Some with trees 300 or 400 years old. Others, less mature. Trees are wise in ways that can’t be taught. As mortals perhaps the best we can do is wander among them in sacred silence, listen, learn, revere, and sustain these forested communities.Hermann Hesse wrote: “For me, trees have always been the most penetrating preachers. I revere them when I live in tribes and families, in forests and groves. And even more I revere them when they stand alone. They are like lonely persons. Not like hermits who have stolen away out of some weakness, but like great, solitary men, like Beethoven and Nietzsche. In their highest boughs the world rustles, their roots rest in infinity; but they do not lose themselves there, they struggle with all the force of their lives for one thing only: to fulfill themselves according to their own laws, to build up their own form, to represent themselves.... Whoever has learned to listen to trees no longer wants to be one. He wants to be nothing except who he is.”BONUS: Click to access the pdf: Trees: An Anthology of Writings and PaintingsYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Thune, Switzerland!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.If you know me you know that “Each One Lift One” is the way I roll because when we help each other, we help all of us.My long-time friend and colleague, Susanne Mueller, can run circles around many of us. 700+ weekly blogs / 400+ podcasts / 26 marathon races / 5 half Ironman races / 3 books / 1 Mt. Kilimanjaro / 1 TEDx Talk / 1 Ironman race. How? Motivation! Pure and simple.Today I’m showcasing Susanne and her latest book, 50 Shades of Lipstick Leaders. Her book delves into the essence of learning, listening, and leading through the insightful journeys of 50 remarkable women. Based on enriching conversations from Susanne’s podcast, Take it from the Ironwoman, these stories offer profound life lessons and empowering narratives that speak to the seismic shifts these women experienced professionally and personally. Shifts which led to even greater resilience and leadership skills. Click HERE to purchase your copy on AmazonClick HERE to check out the upcoming Lipstick Leadership Learning Labs with the focus on learning, listening, and leading to make the world a better place for all!Contact Susanne MuellerWebsite: www.susannemueller.bizPh: +1.917.494.4043www.susannemueller.bizTEDx Talk: Running & Life: 5KM Formula for YOUR Success [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT_5Er1cLvY]Substack: https://takeitfromtheironwoman.substack.com/BONUS: 1 free Lipstick Leadership Lab with a yearly subscription plus 1:1 & group coaching for a discounted rateLipstick Leadership: Purchase in Paperback You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ Arrange your no-sales, Complimentary Coaching Consult,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in McHenry, Illinois!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Maybe it’s true and maybe it isn’t but once there was a corrupt politician in the 1920's named John A. McCarthy; but he was known as Fishhooks McCarthy. He lived and worked on the Lower East Side of New York City. Being a devout man every morning he stopped at a little Catholic Church, St. James Church on Olive Street, to pray. For more, tune in to listen because this could happen to you.Story Prompt: While you have health and strength what can you do to shape and share creative and compassionate ways for us to come together? Write that story! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Geneseo, New York!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thanksgiving Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Here in the US Thanksgiving Day is a designated holiday. I am deeply thankful for you and each of you on this podcast journey of almost 5 years. Together we have shared so many intersecting tales of the human heart.Following are a few story-making prompts to inspire some reflecting on good fortune, thanks and how “Each One Lift One” is still the way we roll here. Who showed you unforgettable kindness or forgiveness?Who kept you from making a big mistake?Who reassured you when you were afraid?Who taught you an important lesson by example?Who inspired you by standing up for what is right?Question: What prompts would you like to add? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Sumner, Washington!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.If this is the day before Thanksgiving I’m elbow deep in boxes of pumpkin pies cutting and boxing slices for upwards of 700 turkey dinners being prepared by 200 Mobile Turkey Unit volunteers who have been busy carving freshly roasted turkeys, peeling mountains of potatoes for mashing, stirring vats of stuffing, spooning up cranberry relish, bagging rolls and butter, napkins, utensils and even coffee. On Thanksgiving morning I’ll help to deliver some of 700 *complete* turkey dinners to those on the Island who otherwise might not have one. We are celebrating our 26th year since this nonprofit community event was founded in 1999 by Tom Arhontas, who had a special place in his heart for people in need.Click HERE to share in the spirit of volunteer giving, check out the story, photos and videos of what we do and how we do it here on our Island.You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedIn Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you Keith McNally of The Question Guy podcast listening in Suffolk, Virginia! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.The other day Keith mentioned feeling sad that we might have lost the old ways, the sacred ways of teaching wisdom. And then - as these things happen - I stumbled on a favorite poem that might show us how to return to those old ways:Birdfoot’s Grampa "The old manmust have stopped our cartwo dozen times to climb outand gather into his handsthe small toads blindedby our lights and leaping, live drops of rain. The rain was fallinga mist about his white hairand I kept sayingyou can’t save them allaccept it, get back inwe’ve got places to go.But the leathery hands fullof wet brown lifeknee deep in the summerroadside grasshe just smiled and saidthey have place to gotoo." [~ Joseph Bruchac]Episode NotesClick to read Study GuideOverview“Birdfoot’s Grampa” is a poem by Joseph Bruchac, a Nulhegan Abenaki storyteller, author, poet, and musician. Originally published in 1975 as postcard #28 in a collection of poetry postcards, the poem is Bruchac’s most widely anthologized piece. It appears in one of Bruchac’s early chapbooks titled Entering Onondaga (1978) and in Unsettling America: An Anthology of Contemporary Multicultural Poetry (1994), an anthology of poems aimed at giving voice to the everyday experience of diverse peoples in America. The notes to Bruchac’s 1980 essay, Translator’s Son indicate that “Birdfoot’s Grampa” presents a snapshot of a moment between a young person and an elder that teaches lessons critical to Native traditions.Joseph Bruchac is a prolific author, and his published works span a number of genres that include poetry, nonfiction, adult fiction, and children’s books. Bruchac first published a book of poetry in 1971, “Birdfoot’s Grampa” is part of his earlier work. It is representative of Bruchac’s ability to deliver solemn, important messages in a playful style. When asked about the poem’s meaning in a 1996 interview, Bruchac explained that the poem was inspired by a drive he took with Swift Eagle, an elderly Pueblo Apache storyteller. The pair were driving to a speaking engagement, and they were running late, but Swift Eagle and Bruchac stopped repeatedly to move toads off the road, much to Bruchac’s frustration. Swift Eagle said the last lines of the poem to Bruchac, providing him with the inspiration to write “Birdfoot’s Grampa.” Of the poem, Bruchac himself says it is “about being stupid and having your eyes opened by an elder.”You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Round Lake, Curtis, Michigan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Things in this country are upside down and backward in ways we have never ever seen before. Is that good? No! It’s a nightmare. What do we do now? I’m glad you asked.First off, you can rely on me to be here with you and for you. Thanks to your devoted listening this global podcast is edging close to 200,000 plays. There will be stories and more to inform, delight, inspire, and motivate in the days ahead.As to, “What do we do now?” get comfy and relish Colorado Poet Laureat Andrea Gibson’s Letter to a Friend. Click HEREor read the letter in the Episode NotesPractical Tip: Pay particular attention to how grief and fear can give way to relief, clarity, what needs doing, and how to go about it. Ask yourself: “What is my job in this moment? What do I specifically have to offer? Where can I be of most use and service to others? How can I creatively, actively participate in pulling the arc of the moral universe toward justice for all?A tight bundle of sticks cannot be broken as easily as a single branch. We are in this together. Our lives are in our hands. More than ever before this is our opportunity to cherish life and work for it! Colorado Poet Laureate Andrea Gibson’s Letter To A Friend After the ElectionBy Andrea GibsonNovember 16, 2024Architects of ChangeFriend,I am writing about the text you sent the morning after the election. “What do we do now?” you asked. My first response was to stare blankly at a blank wall for an hour. But I’ve had a week to sit with it, and here’s what I want to share:Last April, after two years of chemotherapy, when my oncologist told me the cancer was now considered incurable, I felt the expected fear and grief. But something I didn’t tell you was this—I also felt relief. Why relief? Because when I heard the system say, “We can’t save you,” it was the first time since my diagnosis that I felt as if my life was in my hands. Watching the election, I felt something similar: grief, fear. Then this thought—Our lives are in our hands. They always were, but it’s clearer than ever now.I think I’ve told you about my friend Liza. She was one of the most committed activists I’ve ever known. She built her life like an altar to social justice. She was also a Buddhist. A couple of weeks before her death, when asked how she wanted to be remembered, she said, “Just don’t let anyone say I was the best at anything. It’s so obnoxiously American.” As we look for creative paths forward, I want to beg “the left” to stop tearing each other to shreds over who is The Best at fighting for change. When we allow our egos to do our heart’s work, what needs to get done doesn’t get done. I understand that people are frantic for a clear and direct answer. But it’s so important to choose curiosity over certainty in a moment that asks us to create something entirely new. This is that moment.I keep asking myself, “What is my job in this moment? What do I specifically have to offer?” It’s empowering to ask those questions because no one’s job will be the same. There were many years of my life that I did not feel I was actively participating in change unless I was in the streets protesting. As my health worsened, I knew that wasn’t where I would be of most service. Creatively explore where you might be most useful. Throw a What’s My Job party and explore the question with your community. Friends may reflect a specific talent or gift they see in you that you haven’t yet recognized.My friend Oak, (great name, I know) used to say, “If we can’t imagine it, we can’t create it.” Right now I’m putting active energy into imagining what’s possible. What does a compassionate world look like? What would it feel like to wake up every morning to a planet fueled by community and not capitalism? When I’m glued to my phone doom-scrolling the news, it’s almost impossible for me to creatively imagine, but anytime I’ve got my feet in the grass I open in a new way. Even in a city, you can notice the way your body changes with the seasons. You can mirror the earth’s steady and persistent pace. Save the seeds of an apple. Grow veggies in plant pots in the windowsill of your apartment. Feed a stranger. Drive a neighbor through the sunshine to a doctor’s appointment in another state. Never forget how alone we are not. The moss, the mountains, the redwood tree, the marigold, the mourning dove calling for her love’s return—are our allies. Every natural thing in this world is invested in the peace of this world. All that is good and gracious whispers, “We are with you.”I keep thinking about something I learned in my early 20’s—the rural poor are more likely to survive a catastrophic world event than the wealthiest billionaires. It's really out of touch to use the word educated to refer solely to college-educated people. Everyone is educated i

Hello to you listening in Salta, Argentina!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Claiming your origin story is not for sissies. Claiming your origin story begins with an archeological dig - on yourself. What’s that? An archeological dig is an excavation! Excavation exposes, processes and records archaeological remains. Those remains are the clues to your life, how you live, what you value, your experiences, hardships and achievements. It’s not an easy project; not everyone gets to do this. But for those who say “I want to know who I am!”, there are treasures untold to be found.CTA: I invite you to leave behind the habitual parroting of boring story lines to delve deep into emotions, sensory images, and experiences with compassion, insight and humor. When we consciously engage with our story we practice genuine communication with ourselves. When we learn how to genuinely communicate with ourselves, we can use these same tools to share our message, values, and truth so we are seen, heard, understood, and listened to. Story Prompt: What’s your excavation project? Write that story! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn and Wyzga on Words on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in San Jose, Capital of Costa Rica!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Did you ever wonder: How did I get here? Where did I come from? How did I get started?You can’t really imagine your own beginnings any more than you can imagine your parents beginning them. Think about it: how do you begin to imagine all that went before - the end result of which is you? All you know - all you can ever really know - is that this was, something changed, and that is. Your world began.All along the timeline of your life you’ve come from where you were; but *how* is often more puzzle than open road.I like that some stories leave out details because you have to go look for them and that is always another story.Question: How did you get here? Where did you come from? What got you started? How do you know you’ve arrived? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn and Wyzga on Words on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Belleville, Ontario, Canada!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.What if you invested in your brand/origin story with a co-creator? For 30 years, I’ve helped professionals take their story from a message only they could hear to the publishing world, the courtroom, hospitals, board meetings, the airwaves, and more. Stories that swayed juries. Built markets. Spread ideas. Changed things.Today I help people find the words they didn’t know they had to tell the most consequential story of their life: the story of how they got from there to here. What happens next? You connect with, engage and enliven your audience to action while transforming the lives of those you serve.What might you get personally and professionally when you co-create your brand/origin story with me? • Discover your Who, your genuine self, values, How you work, Why, and for whom; • Become increasingly adept at claiming your talents, skills and contributions;• Demonstrate your particular expertise;• Stay motivated while developing your projects; and,• Come face-to-face with the fact that no one in history has your voice, your mix of skills, talents, and ways to use them. You are your brand story!CTA: Investing in co-creating your brand/origin story is absolutely critical for personal as well as business and marketing purposes. It’s the most consequential story of your life. How you got from there to here so that you connect with, engage and influence your audience to action while transforming the lives of those you serve. Curious? I can help. Email me at [email protected]. When you summon the courage to say “Yes!” that’s the place where your story changes.You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn and Wyzga on Words on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Walking home from a trip to the library and post office the other day in the damp chill that has settled on Whidbey Island I heard them before I saw them. Looking up I could make out two bald eagles hunting over Holmes Harbor. Like a child I held steady in silent witness and thought of this from Kenneth Grahame: “All this he saw, for one moment breathless and intense, vivid on the morning sky; and still, as he looked, he lived; and still, as he lived, he wondered.” ~ Kenneth GrahameIf you are curious and would like to learn more about the bald eagle, click HERE to watch 11 minutes on the Nature Here TV show featuring bald eagles wintering in Oregon and Washington.Question: What has prompted you to be still, live breathless and wonder?You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Perry County, Pennsylvania!Coming to you from Whidbey Island Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday, and your host Diane Wyzga. Imagine yourself talking with a very good friend and telling them a story about something that happened in your day. Imagine them listening with energy and delight. It helps you and your story to bloom, right? Your creative energy flows.Now, imagine yourself telling the same story to someone who really can’t be bothered to take the time or be interested in you or what you have to share. When we feel unsafe, judged or misunderstood our creative energy stops.Sometimes we end up standing in our own way by coming up against our fears that we have nothing worthwhile to say, to produce, to express. Our creativity stops. Practical Tip: When you come up against fearful feelings blocking your creativity imagine yourself back with your delighted friend. Visualize yourself basking in the warm glow of their delight, support, encouragement. Imagine that this feeling is all about protective love and energy for you and what you have to offer the waiting world. Now, let go of what’s holding you back, and create your good work!You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your Story Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn and as Wyzga on Words on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Ellicott City, Maryland!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga."I did it! I really did it! I didn’t believe I could do it! But I did it!"Imagine my client’s enthusiasm when she produced a radically genuine origin story of her very own! It had been a work in progress as heartfelt creations can be. Yes, origin story work takes time and dedication; it is the most consequential story of your life. Why? It tells the story of how you got from there to here. Origin stories are designed to connect with, engage and influence your audience to action while also transforming the lives of those you serve.Funny thing: when my clients create their origin story they often feel as if it had always been there. I believe that it has been, waiting for you. “Loud,in a whisper so obvious I’ve always knownin words I’ve always been able to hear the answer Was always there.”[The Wild Silence Raynor Winn]Story Prompt: Know this: your story matters; it can help you advance your profession, claim your voice, communicate effectively, or drive innovation in a world anxious to hear you. What words are you using to share your singular message? Write that story! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Opt In to my monthly NewsAudioLetter for bonus gift, valuable tips & techniques to enhance your story work, and✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Dudley, West Midlands, UK!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Challenge: Are you struggling with articulating ideas clearly, effectively communicating with clients, or grappling with the challenge of creating compelling and memorable narratives that resonate with your audience? What about crafting emotionally meaningful stories that convey your message in a powerfully memorable way?Solution: I have a risk-taking, unorthodox solution. Let it all go. Take a few hours off. Go for a walk. Think of nothing. Appreciate the rhythm of walking. All good writing has a rhythm. All good sentences start off with a beat like that first confident footstep toward beginning anew! Enjoy the sensation of walking. Give thanks for this opportunity to clear your mind and heart.Result: When you return to your work confidently invite the story that wants to be told, the idea that is already becoming clarified, the genuine communication you wish to have to connect with others in a heartfelt way. Now you are ready to create.CTA: Need a little more? What’s your project? How can I help? I’m here at [email protected]! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your Story Consult Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening all around the world!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.It feels like a year-long week since the circus of epic proportions rolled into town. Maybe like me you feel anxious, apprehensive, alarmed, afraid, even angry. But here’s the thing. We don’t have to buy a ticket to the circus. We don’t have to give away our power to circumstances.The 2024 election isn’t our problem, any more. Our choices going forward can forge new narratives out of old fears, habits, attitudes, and behaviors. Rather than getting caught up in the specifics of the outcome, let’s talk about how to hold space for peace and understanding, stay centered, and remember the incredible influence we each have to create change — beginning from within.Here’s a bit of courage for your (seemingly impossible) mission should you choose to accept it:✓ "Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself." [Rumi]✓ “The greatest challenge of the day is: how to bring about a revolution of the heart, a revolution which has to start with each one of us.” [Dorothy Day]✓ “We can all do the right thing, act for the good of all, even when the walls feel like they are closing in on us.” [Jon Stewart] ✓ “Take care of yourself and help each other. How? Each One Lift One!” [Diane Wyzga]ResourcesA Conversation between Jon Stewart & Professor Heather Cox RichardsonMetaphysical and Spiritual Perspectives About the US Presidential Election from Mike DooleyWhy Progress Is Possible with Steven PinkerRely on your brains, your courage, your strength. Make it different, don’t complain, and get moving with Maria ShriverYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer ✓ Arrange your no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack, and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Muscat, Capital of Oman!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane WyzgaMy very dear friend, colleague and newly launched podcast host, Mark O’Brien, invited me to share 60 minutes of radio air time with him on his program The Anxious Voyage talking about living life, making a ruckus, and lifting up this tired world as only two storytellers can. Together we demonstrate how much we can overcome, how much we can accomplish, and how much farther we can get when we believe in ourselves.Our conversation was intimate, insightful, and illuminating ranging from adversity to accomplishment, tragedy to triumph. As Mark said, “If you don't know Diane Wyzga, you should. If you watch this show, you'll want to.” NOTE: You can find recordings of the show on:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sd97EVpYOeYLinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ezZYpE-xFacebook: https://lnkd.in/emAvkGXBand on your favorite podcast app. All links are in the Episode Notes.CTA: Please be sure to watch our show on The Anxious Voyage on Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network, subscribe to Mark’s program and leave good words as thanks! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your Story Consult Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Surfside Beach, South Carolina!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently I was honored to share the mic with Heather Hansen O’Neill, noted author, keynoter, and podcast host.On this episode of From Fear to Fire we talk about story secrets to overcome fear, embrace our gifts and achieve success. Each one of us has an influential story to tell. The power of our well-told story makes a difference by connecting us one to another and contributing to something larger than ourselves.Authentic narratives like those you hear on Stories From Women Who Walk are change-making stories. If you’re curious to learn how our challenges enriched by wisdom and experience can forge common bonds and help us grow together in the revolutions ahead, this episode is for you.Click HERE to listen to the episode Contact Heather Hansen O’NeillWebsite: https://heatherhansenoneill.comE-mail: [email protected] & Audio Programs: https://cji.8ef.myftpupload.com/books/TEDx: Becoming Conscious to Do What You Must https://www.ted.com/talks/heather_hansen_o_neill_becoming_conscious_how_doing_what_you_must_can_change_the_world?subtitle=enYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer ✓ Arrange your no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack, and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more for a story) for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.How do we get good at turning toward the uncertain future?How do we sustain ourselves, and each other?How can we help each other, even--or especially--those with whom we don't agree, through the revolutions ahead? I have an idea. We can share our stories. Here’s one.The great Polish rabbi, Israel ben Eliezer, also known as the Ba’al Shem Tov, deeply loved his people. Whenever they were troubled or persecuted he went to a sacred place in the forest, lit a sacred fire, and said a special prayer asking God to protect his people. It was enough and the people were saved. But in time the Ba’al Shem Tov died. Later, his disciple, following in his master’s footsteps, went into the same part of the forest and said, “Creator of the Universe, I do not know how to light the sacred fire, but I do know the special prayer; please, hear me! and help your people.” And it was enough.Generations passed and when the next Rabbi saw how his people were being persecuted, he went into the forest and said, “Oh, Lord, I don’t know how to light the sacred fire, nor do I know the special prayer, but I still remember the place. Help us! Protect the people” And the people were protected.Decades later, a very elderly rabbi seeing his people being persecuted, spoke to God saying, “I don’t know how to light the sacred fire, nor do I know the special prayer, and I can’t even find the place in the forest. All I can do is tell you this story and hope that you will hear me. Please help the people!” And again the people were spared.Story Prompt: When we find ourselves lost in the forest, do not know how to light the sacred fire, or say the special prayer, we can share our stories. What else might we do to help each other? Write that story!You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Painesville, Ohio!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga. Let’s call it like it is: We are living in decidedly difficult times. As a result we might feel restless, anxious, irritable, impatient or just plain cranky. That negative tension fills our body affecting us from head to toe so we have difficulty managing even simple everyday situations.In my experience breathing exercises hold the key to relieving anxiety. Practical Tip: Try this: sit quietly and begin to breathe slowly in and out. With each breath calm your mind by releasing troubling thoughts. Focus on the ways in which your body begins to relax. Encourage your body to reach deeper states of calm by breathing more slowly, more deeply. You might repeat to yourself: "Breathing in, I know I am alive; breathing out, I smile to life in me and around me." With this simple technique you are decreasing stress, anxiety, and fear. Question? How does this work? Answer: Breathing deeply floods your system with oxygen and calms you. By mindfully slowing your breath, you send a signal to your body that all is well, peace is within you. As soon as you become aware of tension rising in you begin slowly and deeply breathing to dispel the anxiety you feel. It works. Guaranteed. You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening all over the world!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.I coined the term “engaged storyism.” What do I mean? “Engaged” in something means to be actively involved, focused, and committed. “Storyism” is concern about and action aimed at advocating for narratives that unite, not divide; that raise up, not beat down; that include, not exclude. Most importantly storyism is a willingness to examine our narratives, reconfigure outdated beliefs, and undo memories that keep us attached to the old ways and self-images so that we evolve from who we used to be to our better selves. Authentic narrative has been fading while social media encourages algorithm-driven opinions encapsulated as sound bytes and masquerading as wisdom. We have a duty to revive stories that have the power to heal people and cultures, unbalance the status quo. When we employ stories as a bridge to peace, to the greater good, we can help each other out of the dark places or, as I have said for years: “Each One Lift One.”Following are four questions to kick-start “engaged storyism” conversations through the revolutions ahead: ✓ How do we engage in empathetic imagination?✓ How do we get good at turning toward the future, no matter how uncertain it may be?✓ How do we extend kindness to each other, especially to those with whom we disagree?✓ How do we sustain ourselves, and each other?Question: Engaged storyism is a collective effort. What thoughts and ideas do you have to help us help each get really good at turning toward the new narrative future? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in King, North Carolina, The Gateway to the Foothills!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Our very own Whidbey Island Poet Laureate, philosopher, and Bard of the Boardroom, David Whyte once said,“Poetry is often the art of overhearing yourself say things you didn't know you knew.It is a learned skill to force yourself to articulate your life, your present world or your possibilities for the future.We need that same skill as an art of survival.We need to overhear the tiny but very consequential things we say that reveal ourselves to ourselves.” [Flying Edna Digital Calendar 2024]Question? What amazing idea did you overhear yourself say? Now, how might you put your amazing idea into play so you can help others aspire to amazing?You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Londrina, Brazil!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently I was honored to share the mic with my podcast friend and colleague Maritza Perez, the host of My Accent Is No Accident. Together we celebrated cultural diversity by sharing stories and valuable insights about overcoming barriers, and the importance of community. If you’re curious to discover how sharing your origin story can transform lives and promote understanding in the corporate world and more, this episode is for you!Highlights✓ How to reclaim your powerful voice and set the stage for confidently stepping into the life you want by shaping and sharing your origin story (how you got from There to Here).✓ How to shift attitudes and behaviors in the corporate world to overcome efforts at “gaslighting” or undermining women and work toward a more equitable workplace.✓ How neighborhood block parties, shared food and stories can promote understanding, empathy, and ultimately, world peace.Click HERE to watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIb6xTamebQ]Be sure to show us some love with a thumbs up, Subscribing, and leaving positive comments. Thanks for watching!Connect with Maritza PerezE-mail: [email protected]: https://maina.now.site/homeYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you, dad, listening on your Happy Birthday!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I’m a born and raised Jersey Girl. What’s so special about New Jersey? The Diner Capital of the World, Bobcat Alley for the only wildcats in New Jersey, birthplace of music legend Bruce Springsteen, the Leeds Devil of the South Jersey Pine Barrens, prized Jersey tomatoes, Atlantic City Boardwalk (the first, longest and most popular boardwalk in the US), and, of course, the Jersey Shore, 90 miles of white sand beaches. Any season of the year is a reason to visit the Jersey Shore; but if you happen to visit in Summer unlock your sandcastle creativity at the Belmar Sandcastle Contest.Click HERE for more photosStory Prompt: "Like a sandcastle, all is temporary. Build it, tend it, enjoy it. And when the time comes, let it go." [Jack Kornfield] What in your life have you built, tended, enjoyed, and now are ready to let go? Write that story! You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Washington!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, The Witch of Whidbey.Maybe like me you were discouraged from displaying your womanly witchy powers, dismissed for dabbling in sparks of magic that would heal the world, disowned for seeing beyond everyday reality to the visionary knowledge born of imagination, curiosity, and self-expression.But, it’s never too late to remind yourself of the woman you are and the witch wound you are ready to heal.THE WITCH WOUND“They call it the witch wound.We were punished you see, broken, slain, for shining too brightly.So we learned to hide that spark.We learned to play it down, play dumb, play dead.And we were taught to fear the light within us, lest it herald our downfallBut not anymore.You are not a wicked witch my friend, you are quite simply, or complicatedly, a woman.And your magic is not something you can choose, or lose.It always is, and always has lived within you.And you need no longer hide it.I call it the witch wound, but the time to heal is here.Now.Let that magic out.” [~Donna Ashworth - Witch Wound, from ‘Wild Hope’ - UK: https://amzn.eu/d/2j0Nquu - US: https://a.co/d/h6FEaTv]You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Laxa, Sweden!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.The other night I was watching Episode 16 of Season 3 of the TV series The West Wing. Sam Seaborn is visited by his former physics professor, Dr. Dalton Millgate, who wants Sam to put in a good word for the funding of the superconducting supercollider - a controversial scientific project that would cost billions. Senator Enlow from Illinois is holding up the project for political reasons. A short exchange happens in Sam's office between Dalgate, Enlow and Seaborn about what this costly project “does": Sen. Jack Enlow, D-IL: If we can only say what benefit this thing has. No one's been able to do that.Dr. Dalton Millgate: That's because great achievement has no road map. The X-Ray is pretty good, and so is penicillin, and neither were discovered with a practical objective in mind. I mean, when the electron was discovered in 1897, it was useless. And now we have an entire world run by electronics. Haydn and Mozart never studied the classics. They couldn't. They invented them.Sam Seaborn: Discovery.Dr. Dalton Millgate: What?Sam Seaborn: Discovery is what. That's what this is used for. It's for discovery!Practical Tip: When we lose hope or direction or get discouraged about what we're about, about what our project does or is good for, remember this: it's for discovery! And that’s the road map to great achievement.Click HERE to watch the scene on YouTubeYou’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Parker, Colorado! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Since 17th September I’ve been virtually retracing my pilgrimage steps on the Camino de Santiago, an annual ritual to remind me what I gained, what I was willing to toss away, and marking my life as BC & AC: Before Camino and After Camino.That cold dark morning I climbed the wet mountain trail to arrive at the Cruz de Ferro - also called the Iron Cross - bearing rocks for 16 friends and family members. Funny to be carrying all that extra weight when our packs are supposed to be pared down to the least we need. But I had promised that I would include my beloveds in this Camino ritual to set down burdens by leaving a rock and a prayer - even symbolically - leaving behind for them the weight of fears, heartbreak, mistakes, regrets, disappointments. For me it was fear of poverty. What the Camino gave me then and continues to give me now is a profound sense of community I’ve found nowhere else. Whether we prayed for ourselves at the Cruz de Ferro or for the state of the world or for something in between I just know that our prayers were heard. And answered; but perhaps not in the way we expected. Why? Because we don’t get what we ask for; we get what we dream of. And that might take time to recognize.Practical Tip: Know this: we are all pilgrims on the road walking each other home the best way we can with compassion, stories, and believing that Each One Lift One is the Way of the Buen Camino.You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Bucharest, Romania!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently I had the privilege to share the mic with my empowerment friend and colleague Colleen Biggs, the host of Take the Leap podcast. If you are curious about how Your Voice is Your Power; The Importance of Self-Discovery for Self-Expression; and Deep Authentic Connection Through Storytelling, this episode is for you!Highlights✓ Your voice is not just a means of communication; it is your power. Your voice is as singular as your fingerprint—use it to rise above the noise in the marketplace and make yourself heard.✓ Before we can effectively express ourselves, we must dig deep into our past experiences, values, and passions to build a strong foundation from which we can confidently share our ideas and insights.✓ Storytelling fosters connection. In a world that often feels disconnected, sharing our stories can bridge differences, create understanding and help us realize that we are not alone in our struggles and triumphs.Click HERE to watch on YouTube Click HERE to listen on Apple Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review and nice words; it helps us all:Step 1: Click the link to listen to this episode on Apple podcastStep 2: It will prompt you to open Itunes-Open ItunesStep 3: Click on ratings and review!Connect with Colleen BiggsWebsite: https://colleenbiggs.net/Leap Community: https://colleenbiggs.net/community/Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-biggs/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colleenbiggs/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/310881170189409You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malasia!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Retracing my Camino de Santiago pilgrimage footsteps in my journal and photos as I’ve been doing since 17th September reminds me how fully alive I felt then. 5 weeks - 500 miles walking on the Way.Yes, there were aches and pains, cold and rain; there were crowded dorms that smelled like wet dogs; there were doubts, mistakes, and getting lost.And yet, and yet, all those days that came and went were the days I was living then. I was a pilgrim. The way forward beckoned me. I want to be a pilgrim again and live my life out loud.Story Prompt: What about you? What will it take to move toward the Way that beckons you? Write that story!You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Giza, Egypt! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more) for Thoughts on Thursday and your host, Diane Wyzga.St. Augustine’s in the Woods is a small Episcopal church here on Whidbey Island with a female pastor and the message that all are welcome regardless where they might be on their spiritual journey. It felt like the right place to be on Christmas Eve.Pastor Jennifer’s homily focused on the theme of travel, something each of us could relate to in one way or another. I was grateful not to be racing through the HoliDazed airports as I had done for the past 35 years of my life. But miracles do happen. Maybe this could be you. Click HERE to listen to Poet Naomi Shihab Nye read her poem "Gate A-4" as part of "Incredible Bridges: Poets Creating Community." Question: Where can this still happen where your feet touch the ground?You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Buenos Aires, Argentina!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.Willy Claflin is one of the most clever, insightful storytellers I know. He was a remarkable teacher. Here’s what he said about the "power of the pause" to create the very best stories:“When I told stories I would just rocket along to the end! But one day I taught a workshop in Texas. A woman wrote a story which began with this sentence: "Snake wanted to learn to play canasta. Only she didn't say, "snakewantedtolearntoplaycanasta!" She said, "Sssssnnnnnaaaake . . . . . . . wanteeeddddddd ........to learrrrrrrrnnnnn . . . . . . . . . .to plaaaaaaaayyyyyy . . . . . . . . canasssssssstaaaaaa." It must have taken her 20 seconds.I had time to see Snake’s desire, the deck of cards, and realize the problems Snake might have holding or dealing the cards. I began to dwell on the spaces - between the words - and eventually - to connect the empty space with the silence of meditation. I came to understand that inviting silence into stories created an opportunity for teller and listeners to rest, live and breathe inside the story. Instead of rocketing along to the end we would sit - quietly - inhabit the world of the story - together.”Practical Tip: As a speaker, litigator, podcaster, or platform teller use the Power of the Pause to invite your audience into the story you are telling them! That’s the world you’ll inhabit together. That’s where the call to action takes place. You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Barrigada Village, Guam!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Time Out Tuesday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Interestingly, the word passion finds its root in both the Latin word passiō and the Greek word pathos, which both mean “suffering” suggesting that the things we care most about come from a place of suffering rather than joy.Today, passion means having very strong feelings about or a strong belief in something that moves you to action. Have we lost the notion of suffering?Not really. While the intent of the word has been diluted consider that being passionate is engaging in an intense desire to go toward your dreams. When you are truly passionate, you are motivated such that you are willing to endure pain and suffering to achieve your goals.Passion is what drives us. It helps us build our purpose and goals, our knowledge and capability. When we are deeply passionate our excitement attracts other people, as in this example: “If you catch fire with enthusiasm people will come from miles around to watch you burn. Now THAT’s being passionate!”Question: What goal or dream might have the potential to set you on fire with enthusiasm and passion? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Start-up Session,✓ Stay current with me on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Taoyaun City, Taiwan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I’ve been asked, “So, what are you doing on this FallBattical of yours?” Work. Risk-taking, identity changing, gambling on myself work. I want to let go of living at the whim of digital age technology so that I can know the wisdom of this life that begs to be lived! It’s harder than it looks.What do I mean? “Some people believe that holding on and hanging there are signs of strength, but there are times in life when it takes much more strength just to let go.” [Ann Landers]I’m letting go. I’m paring away what no longer fits or suits or nourishes or sings. I’m clearing out the closet of me. I’m throwing the deck of cards of my life high into the air and watching while they flutter back to earth suggesting direction to what’s next.Question: What about you? What about your life is asking you to let go, to take a gamble on yourself, leaving you lighter for the journey ahead? You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with me as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you, Steve Wyzga, listening in Frederick, Maryland on your Happy Birthday!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.To grow takes time.To grow takes patience, fortitude, even silence.To grow means letting go of what you know to allow life to help you recover so that you become fertile soil again. Walking the Camino de Santiago took me through harvested fields. All dry, brown, cut down to earth as far as the eye could see. One might think that nothing was going on in those fields; but you’d be wrong. Those fields are fallow.Fallow land remains unplanted for a time. Fallow land is land left to rest, regenerate, pause. It allows the soil of a field to replenish nutrients.Story Prompt: I’m taking this FallBattical time to rest, renew, recover, and grow. What about you? How will you become fertile soil again? Write that story. You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.

Hello to you listening in Puyallup, Washington!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.Maybe like me your fears, worries, and anxieties can feel overwhelming at times. How could things turn out well? I turn to a favorite scene from the movie, Shakespeare in Love. Philip Henslowe is the promoter behind Shakespeare’s newest play. Henslowe is threatened by the play’s producer Hugh Fennyman and his thugs because Henslowe owes money to Fennyman. If the play opens as planned Henslowe can pay what’s owed; but The Rose Theatre is currently closed because of the plague. Philip Henslowe: Mr. Fennyman, allow me to explain about the theatre business. The natural condition is one of insurmountable obstacles on the road to imminent disaster.Hugh Fennyman: So what do we do?Philip Henslowe: Nothing. Strangely enough, it all turns out well.Hugh Fennyman: How?Philip Henslowe: I don’t know. It’s a mystery.Click to watch the scene on YouTubePractical Tip: The next time you’re faced with some challenge, take a deep breathe and repeat, “Strangely enough it all turns out well. How? I don’t know. It’s a mystery.” You’re always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer’s Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.