The Joy Factor: Mindfulness, Compassion, Positive Psychology, Healing, Yoga

Overview The practice of yoga can change your life. Today's guess offers up a beautiful perspective on how each of us can connect with a practice is uniquely our own. She also invites us to remember that we're the ones we've been waiting for. Be your own guru :). Amy Day is a longtime yogi, writer, herbalist, mama & lover of all things creative.   She believes in crafting practices & communities which supports us inside this Life right now.  In creating rituals and relationships that liberate, activate & sustain us.  She works with groups and individuals that are hungry for transformation. The type that shows up not just on the cellular or soul level - but that ripples into the world beyond.   Through her work as a teacher, podcaster, healer, storyteller, et. al. she hopes to inspire us all to use the mighty tools we all possess - to craft the type of world we wish to inhabit.   One faltering & bless-ed step at a time. What We’ll Learn Why is community building so important? The deep understan

Today’s show is brought to you by Yoga Intentions, a Boulder-based studio aiming to provide high quality, affordable yoga, that encourages individual growth and a sense of community and friendship. The show today contains subjects for mature audiences and may not be appropriate for young listeners. My guest is Angela Rae Clark, She’s a survivor of sexual abuse and exploitation by her grandfather. Angela is on a mission to help break the cycle of silence and reach beyond the pain felt by abuse survivors. She is a life coach specializing in helping clients reclaim their voice and rebuild confidence during recovery. Angela is a true inspiration for anyone who is on the journey of recovery. If you liked the show please let us know! You can leave a review on iTunes or stop by our facebook page The Joy Factor Podcast The best way to spread the joy though, is to tell your friends and family about us I’d also like to thank our sponsor for today’s show, Yoga Intentions. If you’re in the Boulder area do yourself a favo

Welcome to the show. Today we’re talking therapy! Specifically how to be a smart consumer when it comes to finding a therapist who is a good fit and understanding a few tips on how to do therapy. You’ve recognized a need to get some help and are ready to take the first step. Now what? Here are ten strategies to get the most out of the therapy hour. Be Choosy. It’s ok to screen potential therapists. Credentials are important because they give you a clue about what approach the therapist was trained in. Ultimately though,  the most important consideration is how you feel with the therapist. Do they seem interested and capable? Do you sense that they enjoy their work? Do you trust them to guide you toward your goals? Once you decide on a therapist give it 3 sessions before you decide whether to commit to the process. Therapists are only human and the process does take a little time. It’s not unusual to feel uncomfortable, or uncertain whether therapy is helping. Commit to at least 3 sessions to give yourself the

Hello and welcome to episode #17 of the JOY Factor Podcast. It’s good to be here with you today and I think you’re going to enjoy this episode. I recently enjoyed a reiki session with Judy and her energy truly is special. Enjoy the show! Judy Buchanan is an entrepreneur, Certified Medical Reiki Master, public speaker, retired U.S. Army solider, wife and mother of two. Her passion is to empower women to safely release trauma, anxiety, grief and pain so they can feel better and thrive. Judy provides Reiki treatments, Reiki classes, supports holistic workshops and retreats as well as provides lectures to educate her community. Judy Buchanan has attained the level of Karuna Reiki Master through the International Center for Reiki Training (IRCT) and the Okuden level of Jikiden Reiki®. Certification in Medical Reiki through Raven Keyes Medical Reiki International. Certification in Sacred Childbirth with Reiki through Rev. Cori Nielsen. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW), and a Master’s in Business Adm

Hello and welcome to episode #16 of the JOY Factor Podcast. It’s good to be here with you today and I think you’re going to enjoy this episode- especially if you’re a guy looking for a solid relationship or even just a good date. My guest is Jeffrey Platts-he’s a men's coach and authentic communication expert who is passionate about helping men create amazing relationships with women. With over 20 years of personal study and transformational training, he has led nearly 200 workshops and retreats on personal growth, dating, and communication. Jeffrey's work and writing has been featured in the Huffington Post, Washington Post, ABC News, Authentic Man Program and the Good Men Project. He brings a rich toolbox of insights and experiences to his facilitation, integrating his adventures as DJ, amateur stand-up comedian, salsa dancer, yoga teacher and world traveler. Find out more at http://www.jeffreyplatts.com.   More from Jeffrey: http://www.jeffreyplatts.com http://facebook.com/jeffreyplatts http://instagra

Welcome to episode 15 of the JOY Factor. Today we're talking about the benefits of taking a break from technology and setting the stage to help you take your own detox. If your internet habits leave you feeling a little edgy, frustrated or down, take heart. You don't have to give up your phone but you can greatly benefit from reigning it in and being more intentional with your use.  This is a call to give yourself the space to reflect on how you're spending the time and seize the opportunity to make changes where you need to.  Enjoy the show and let me know what you think!

Today I'm interviewing an amazing leader at Helping Services for Northeast Iowa. Kathleen Davis leads the Domestic Violence Resource Center team and is talking today about her work and breaking down myths about survivors of domestic violence. There's still time to donate and/or register for the Sena Hanson Memorial 5k being held on October 1 in Decorah Iowa. 100 % of the proceeds will go to Helping Services of Northeast Iowa. Money raised will provide needed assistance to domestic violence survivors and their children. Here's the link if you'd like to donate https://www.helpingservices.org/events/2nd-annual-sena-hanson-memorial-5k-walkrunbike/ If you need help our support please know that there are folks waiting to help. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) Thanks to everyone who is listening, peace and love to all who are suffering and power to those who can take a stand to help someone.  About Kathleen Kathleen Davis is the Director of the Domestic Abuse Resour

During the month of September The JOY Factor is taking a stand against domestic violence. Support Helping Services for NE Iowa Domestic Abuse Resource Center to honor my niece Sena’s memory and raise awareness of intimate partner violence Register for the 2nd Annual Sena Hanson Memorial Walk/Run/Bike 5k on 10/1/16 or make a donation (every dollar counts) Thank you for your support! Today’s guest is Dr. Jennifer Sippel. She is the Clinical Director for Cultural Transformation VA North Texas Health Care System and a Certified Compassion Teacher who received her training Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. Jen spells out simple but effective ways to begin an informal compassion practice and outlines some of the science behind the power of compassion.  Compassion Resources Stanford Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education http://ccare.stanford.edu   Krstin Neff www.self-compassion.org   Brene’ Brown http://brenebrown.com   Paul Gilbert-compassion focused therap

Today’s episode may be difficult to hear and a trigger warning for some. The content is designed for a mature audience so please keep children out of listening range. Also, just a reminder that this podcast is not meant as a substitute for therapy, or counseling but it may provide information you find therapeutic or helpful. Today’s guest is Lisette Johnson creator of the website www.shamelesssurvivors.com Lisette Johnson leads a peaceful life with her two teenage children outside Richmond, Virginia. After years of emotional and psychological abuse by her husband, Lisette was making plans to exit the marriage when he shot her several times before taking his own life. She is now a tireless advocate for those navigating intimate partner abuse and works at the state and national levels to bring awareness and change laws to protect women and children from partner violence and control. For the month of September the JOY Factor will be dedicated to the topic of exploring the reality of intimate partner violence, w

  Support Helping Services for NE Iowa Domestic Abuse Resource Center to honor my niece Sena's memory and raise awareness of intimate partner violence Register for the 2nd Annual Sena Hanson Memorial Walk/Run/Bike 5k on 10/1/16 or make a donation (every dollar counts) My fundraising page for Helping Services Thank you for your support! Today's guest is licensed therapist, professional speaker and fellow podcaster, Robert Cox. His podcast, Mindful Recovery is an amazing resource for anyone on the journey through recovery from trauma or addictions. Listening to some of his guided meditations on healing have brought tears to my eyes and touched my heart. He is truly passionate about helping people and I know you'll enjoy our interview today! Visit Robert's website for valuable information and to check out his podcast, Mindful Recovery http://liferecoveryconsulting.com/ More on healing our broken spaces http://mindfulrecoverypodcast.libsyn.com/   For the month of September the JOY Factor will be dedicated to the

Today's guest is Kim Dow, founder of Sass Magazine and Kalico Design in Frederick Maryland. Kim shares her perspective on joy and offers a great example to other entrepreneurs.  Contact Kim http://www.sassmagazine.com https://www.facebook.com/sassfrederick More about Kim Kimberly Dow is the owner and creative director of Kalico Design, a graphic design studio in the Frederick, MD region that works with associations, publications and companies in the health & wellness, women-oriented, and pet-related industries. She is an award-winning graphic designer who earned a BA, Summa Cum Laude, from Salisbury University in Maryland. An entrepreneur at heart, Kim also just recently launched Sass Magazine, a women’s lifestyle and professional magazine in the Frederick MD and surrounding regions. Kim serves as the owner, publisher, and creative director for this new venture. Kim also finds creative outlets outside the design studio. A dancer since the age of 4, she is the co-founder and past artistic director of Eq

Today’s guest is Jacqueline Lawson from Joyful on Purpose. In May  of 2012 Jackie’s husband Brian lost his battle with cancer and died 112 days after his diagnosis. From the start Jackie made a conscious decision to find joy in the midst of pain no matter what. Unless you’ve been through the loss of a loved on, it’s hard to know how you would respond. Talking to Jackie was a privilege because she wholeheartedly admits to the intensity of her loss but at the same time she does exactly what the JOY Factor is all about- she rises toward the light even when seemingly surrounded by darkness. She reaches in deep and manages to find her own voice in the process. This is a special episode that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired. Such a wonderful story of hope and possibility. Talking to Jackie reminded me how kind and thoughtful people can be. Despite losing the love of her life Jackie made a conscious decision to be joyful on purpose. We can all learn from her example. She made a conscious decision to seek

On today's episode, Boulder's own Cat Pantaleo joins me to discuss the power of connecting with nature and the ancient wisdom that's waiting for all of us to remember.  Cat generously shared her time and wisdom and her words will remind you of the power of nature and the impact of stopping to listen to it. She gave pointers on simple, yet inspiring practices  to connect with the wild life all around us and discussed the amazing work of Feet on the Earth, a non-profit organization committed to helping youth connect with nature.  Resources discussed on the show: Feet On The Earth- Growing community from the ground up. Wilderness Awareness School- So many great resources on this site! Books to check out About Cat Catherine Pantaleo CN CCH has a Bachelors Degree in Biology from the University of Miami, and is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist. For the past 12 years, she has taught a variety of holistic health and life science subjects at several Boulder/Denver area schools, including: Rocky Mountai

Today’s guest is Kelly Darke. Kelly is a Michigan based art therapist who has been using art as a portal to joyful living since she was a child. Lately she’s been collaborating with the organization Stand with Trans to lead art therapy groups for transgender kids. Creating a safe, creative space for these kids and their families has allowed her to learn from their wisdom and increase her understanding of the unique concerns the transgender community. Her authenticity shines through and I loved talking to her, not only about the work she does but also because of her powerful reminder that unconditional love is the key to raising healthy children. If you have an interest in adding more art or creativity into your own life you’ll love this episode. I can’t wait to share Kelly’s amazing perspective on art, parenting and personal growth and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. After the interview Kelly sent me a sample of her Daily Visual Journaling program. I already had art supplies but went ahead and picked up

In today’s episode, I’m talking to Gloria Martin, a Dallas TX based marriage and family therapist in private practice. Gloria’s thoughtful approach to seeking joy offers us the opportunity to dive a little deeper into practice of creating space for reflection.  I hope you’ll take a moment and reflect on how you can listen to your soul. What questions need to be asked in order to mindfully check in with yourself? More about Gloria: Gloria Martin is in private practice in Dallas, Texas and works with individuals, couples, and families. She is licensed by the Texas Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors and the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage & Family Therapists and is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and is Texas Board Supervisor. Based on her belief that systems theory can have a broader appeal than the therapy room, Gloria has provided team-building services for Head Start of Greater Dallas and Region 10 Educational Service Center and also conducts ecumenical process groups for female cle

Today's guest is Jason Doorish and we're talking about remembering the basics when it comes to joy. Jason is a Licensed Professional Counselor and he's an expert on bringing mindfulness into the day every day. He reminds us that often the best things in life are the simplest and we all could benefit from chilling out a bit more and taking life less seriously wherever possible. When it comes to intentional joy he recommends starting where you are and operating from the understanding that we all have more power than we think over the situations life throws at us. A few tips to remember: When you start on this path. It’s ok to fail.  Know that you won’t have a perfect plan but be on the look out for things you can commit to. Build a life step by step that promotes joy. Get enough sleep, eat breakfast and take naps! It’s not just one thing but each practice strung to the next that helps to create a sense of expansion and joy. Accept that you’re going to have bad days. Good emotions and bad emotions come and go. B

Today’s guest is Beth Boatman. Beth is a sex therapist and sexuality educator with the insight and expertise to inspire all of us to create more joy in our lives by embracing a sense of healthy sexuality. She shared the story of how she came to be known as Beth the Sex Consultant and offered her thoughts on comprehensive sex education, balancing different sex drives and keeping desire alive across the lifespan. One of the key points she makes is the importance of the c word……communication! Whether it’s talking to your child about sex or trying to increase your level of desire with your partner, the key is to become more comfortable expressing yourself. If you’re struggling (or maybe avoiding?) having a chat with someone you care about, this interview might be just the thing you need to spark up a conversation. Enjoy! Beth Boatman received a Masters Degree in Human Sexuality Education atWidener University and is a Certified Sexuality Educator (AASECT) and aBoard Certified Sexologist (ACS). She is currently a P

Today's guest is an expert on holding her own in the face of struggle. Joclyn Hanson is a professor of communications but really knows how to teach the art of being classy, strong and light hearted. Listen in as she shares her insight on turning the worn out phrase "mid-life crisis" into mid-life TRANSFORMATION! 

Today's show is all about laughter! Our guest  is Laura Gentry,is dynamic leader in the world of laughter yoga and the founder of the Iowa School of Laughter Yoga.  “Joy-real heart singing joy- is possible and you deserve to have it.” Laura Gentry Listen as Laura shares: What inspired her to bring more laughter into her life How she builds laughter into her day Specific laughter exercises you can begin doing immediately How laughter can be a mindfulness practice and a daily elixir Insider details on this year’s lineup for the Laugh Fest of the Midwest May13-15, 2016  Warning- you may have to tune out your serious side to relax and deliberately give yourself a minute to be silly with us.  Recommended Links and Resources: www.laughinglaura.com

Welcome to the JOY Factor podcast, featuring bi-weekly conversations to help you reclaim more space in your life for joy. The Joy Factor is a podcast for anyone with a desire to create more joy in their lives.  Julie Hanson, Licensed Psychotherapist, Certified Life Coach and Registered Yoga Teacher,  interviews experts in the field of mental health and positive psychology as well as everyday people who’ve got their own take on how to be on the hunt for joy even in the midst of struggle. She’s on a quest to connect her listeners with the tools, tips and inspiration to claim their right to joy!