In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m thrilled to welcome Lars Howlett, a Master Labyrinth Builder and Advanced Labyrinth Facilitator, to explore the captivating world of labyrinths! Lars brings extensive knowledge about labyrinth building, labyrinth symbolism, and the power these sacred spaces have to transform lives.

We dive into Lars’ unique journey from photography teacher to apprentice with a renowned labyrinth master builder, giving listeners an inside look at what it means to create these intricate paths. Lars also shares fascinating insights about the historic labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral and its influence on today’s labyrinth movement.

Whether you’re new to labyrinths or a dedicated labyrinth enthusiast, this episode offers something special for everyone. Join us as we uncover the beauty and significance of labyrinths with Lars Howlett, and get inspired to explore this sacred art form in your own life!

Resources: 

Read the full show notes on my website.

Find Lars Howlett's website, "Discover Labyrinths"

Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress

Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024.

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

 

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:02 Meet Lars Howlet: Master Labyrinth Builder 00:59 Exploring the World of Labyrinths 01:31 Lars' Early Sparks of Joy 03:50 Understanding Labyrinths: Definition and Symbolism 05:08 Labyrinths vs. Mazes: Key Differences 11:35 Lars' Journey to Becoming a Labyrinth Builder 19:26 The Calling of the Labyrinth 29:00 Exploring Labyrinth Designs 30:23 Creating Labyrinths for Different Spaces 31:03 The Process of Building a Labyrinth 31:39 Labyrinths as Unique Artworks 32:33 Designing for Accessibility 38:16 Historical Significance of Labyrinths 43:49 Guiding First-Time Labyrinth Walkers 48:14 The Joy of Labyrinth Creation 49:41 Connecting with Lars and Final Thoughts

In this heartwarming episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I’m taking you along with me on a journey back to Yale Divinity School for my 25th reunion—a place where old friendships, profound growth, and life’s deeper questions all come together. Reuniting with friends, revisiting cherished memories, and even leading a Labyrinth walk, I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to reconnect with both people and places that have shaped who we are.

I’ll share the magic of the labyrinth as both a spiritual tool and a metaphor for life’s journey—how its twists and turns mirror our own paths and how it can guide us through the beautiful complexities of growth, purpose, and joy.

In this episode, I'm sharing:

• The themes of reunions, self-discovery, and finding one's purpose through heartfelt conversations and experiences from recent events.
•  
• My recent reunion with her friends from Yale Divinity School and UC Santa Barbara, and the special moments of revisiting cherished places.
•  
• My deep connection with labyrinth walks and how they have been a source of inspiration and guidance in her life.
•  
• The journey of her podcast, Jump Start Your Joy, from its inception in 2015 to its current focus on retreats and labyrinth facilitation.
•  
• The importance of showing up, the transformative power of retreats, and how self-confidence can lead to personal and professional growth.

Resources

Interview with Christopher Freimuth: Gardens, Labyrinths, and Spiritual Journeys

The First episode: Kathleen Davies on 'More Light,' Love and Acceptance

Compassion Quest: Join us on November 23rd

Dr. Aimee, The Egg Whisperer: Choosing to Sparkle Everyday

Morgan Bolander on Singing, Songwriting, and Finding Joy

 

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Exciting Reunions 01:38 Welcome to Jump Start Your Joy 02:28 Reconnecting with Old Friends 04:34 Reflections on Life and Career 06:22 The Journey of Jump Start Your Joy 12:52 The Power of Showing Up 18:27 Rediscovering Purpose and Joy 25:33 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward

In this episode of 'Jump Start Your Joy,' join Paula in a rich conversation with Christopher Freimuth, a Yale Divinity School student and owner of CF Gardens in New York City. The episode unpacks Chris's journey from his rural upbringing in Connecticut to becoming a professional gardener in New York City, with a focus on the spiritual and ecological significance of gardening. Chris shares how he employs gardening to create ecological habitats and foster a connection to nature for his urban clients, emphasizing a meticulous approach to sourcing materials and plants.

In this coversation, we talk about:

• Christopher Freimuth's journey from rural Connecticut to professional gardening in NYC
• Gardening as a spiritual and ecological practice
• Chris’s transformative work on the Yale Divinity School Labyrinth
• The historical, cultural, and inclusive spiritual significance of labyrinths
• A reflection of the Minotaur's story from a queer perspective, inwhich Chris finds deep meaning in asking why the Minotaur was cast from his family and pushed into the realm of "other"
• What we can learn from embracing our "inner minotaur" (or those parts of ourselves that feel more difficult to embrace)
• Navigating life’s complexities through the metaphor of a labyrinth
• Practical ways to cultivate joy and community through public gardening initiatives

Resources:

CF Gardens website: https://cfgardens.com/

The Well Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith

Walking a Sacred Path, Rediscovering the Labyrinth as Sacred Practice by Lauren Artress

Walking the Labyrinth: A Spiritual and Practical Guide by Sally Welch

Join me for the next Compassion Quest retreat, in person at San Damiano Retreat on November 23, 2024.

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

In this episode, Paula is joined by the remarkable Illana Burk, a coach and consultant with a passion for helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs thrive. Illana shares her journey from being a dancer to becoming a successful business mentor, diving into her philosophy on building values-based businesses. The conversation is filled with practical advice, laughter, and a fresh perspective on modern entrepreneurship.

Key Points That We Discuss:

• Illana Burk's background and journey from dancer to business mentor.
• The concept of 'feral preneurs' and how it differs from traditional solopreneurship.
• Practical advice on overcoming common 'stuck points' in solopreneurship and entrepreneurship.
• The significance of aligning your business with personal values over following mainstream business advice.
• How Illana successfully monetizes her podcast through live coaching sessions.
• Insight into Illana's 'Go For the No' program, which encourages embracing rejection as part of the growth process.
• The impact of moving to Portugal on Illana’s personal and professional life, highlighting the importance of life-work balance.

Additional Resources:

• Visit Illana Burk's website
• Check out Illana’s podcast 'Good Business with Illana Burk'
• Join the 'Go For the No' program
• Information about the 'Compassion Quest' retreat in Danville, California on August 17, 2024
•  

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Jump Start Your Joy 00:17 Meet Illana Burk: Coach and Consultant 01:09 Warm Welcome and Episode Overview 03:08 Illana's Earliest Sparks of Joy 05:25 Journey from Dancer to Business Mentor 08:55 Challenges and Realizations in Entrepreneurship 15:28 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business

Liminal space is defined as the transitional space that can be physical, metaphorical, spiritual, or emotional. Pulling from examples in Disneyland, Proper People, & Station Eleven I'm looking at how we navigate through liminal space when we encounter it.

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/02/liminal-space/

In this episode, I'm discussing:

- the definition of liminal space

- the four types of liminal space: physical, emotional, metaphorical, and spiritual

- examples of liminal space in every day life

- intentional liminal space and happenstance liminal space, and how they are different

- 5 ways to work with liminal space when you encounter it in your life

Resources

Interview with William J Peters on JSYJ

What is Liminal Space on "A Liminal Space"

The Impact of Liminal Space on Mental Health on Very Well Mind

The Proper People on YouTube

Liminal Space at Disney Parks by Offhand Disney

Station Eleven on HBO Max

Watch Jump Start Your Joy interviews on YouTube

Love the show, and what to show your support?

Buy me a cup of coffee, and I'll give you a shout out on the next episode.

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/navigating-politics-and-self-care-with-expert-tami-hackbarth/

In this episode, I'm joined by Tami Hackbarth, a seasoned author, activist, and advocate for 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care. Together, they explore the crucial intersection of self-care and activism, especially vital in today’s political climate. Tami shares practical strategies for sustaining joy and energy, even when the world feels overwhelming. 

Key Takeaways:

Self-Care is Essential: Prioritize self-care to maintain your energy and effectiveness in activism. Incorporate daily practices such as walking, meditation, and screen-free time to manage stress and enhance your well-being.

Know Your Values: Use your core values as a compass for your actions and decisions, helping you stay grounded and focused amidst political challenges.

Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Utilize deep canvassing techniques to have constructive, impactful discussions about politics, fostering understanding and collaboration within your community.

Resources

Tami Hackbarth's website and podcast

Tami's book: The Essential Guide to 100% Guilt Free Self Care

The Persuaders by Anand Giridharadas The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier

Words to Win By with Anat Shenker-Osorio (podcast) The NewsWorthy with Erica Mandy (podcast) Resistance Live with Elizabeth Cronise McLaughlin (YouTube)

Mobilize US – Find and join local activism events.

Labyrinth Information, and Free Labyrinth Walk Guide

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 Deep Dive into Self-Care and Activism 03:51 Practical Self-Care Tips 06:43 Meditation and Self-Compassion 10:56 Political Landscape and Activism 20:42 Effective Communication in Activism 27:56 Discovering Trusted News Sources 29:27 The Impact of News on Mental Health 32:45 Understanding Stress Responses 34:35 The Importance of Self-Care 37:53 Deep Canvassing and Political Engagement 39:09 Building Community and Connection 42:31 Tami Hackbarth's Offerings 51:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/transforming-life-and-leadership-through-kindness-with-lara-heacock

In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, host Paula Jenkins welcomes Lara Heacock, executive coach, and Editor-in-Chief of Kind Over Matter. We discuss the practices of kindness and joy, and how these have become essential tools in navigating today's world. Lara shares her journey from corporate America to becoming an advocate for kindness, including tangible tips for practicing self-kindness and integrating these values into professional settings. With a deep dive into the emotional facets of empathy, integrity, and resilience, this conversation offers valuable insights the audience can apply in their daily lives.

Resources:

Kind Over Matter: https://kindovermatter.com/

Lara Heacock's website: https://laraheacock.com/

Practical Kindness by Lara Heacock: https://amzn.to/3Y9PrPI

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 05:01 Practices of Kindness and Joy 31:19 Self-Kindness and Practical Tips 24:18 Kindness in Leadership 40:06 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2022/08/return-to-nature-emma-loewe/

Emma Loewe is the co-author of The Spirit Almanac, and she is the senior sustainability editor for mindbodygreen, and she has released the amazing book, Return to Nature: The New Science of How Nature Landscapes Restore Us. In it, she shares the different kinds of landscapes, how they effect your mental health, studies about why they improve your mental health, and things you can do to counter-act the effects of climate change on these landscapes. This discussion fits so well into this month’s theme of “finding home,” and I hope you love this conversation about the return to nature with Emma Loewe.

In this episode, Emma Loewe and I talk about:

• How the idea of this book came about
• A profound memory Emma has of a maple tree in her yard growing up, and why many of us have anchoring memories that revolve around nature.
• My resonance with the landscapes of oceans and coasts and forests and trees.
• What a forest bath is, and how to experience one
• The fractals in trees, and why that is soothing to humans
• How to handle grief and anxiety over climate change in an effective and non-overwhelming way

Resources

Emma Loewe’s book, “Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us” on Bookshop.org

Emma Loewe’s website

Emma Loewe on Instagram

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Reflecting on Nature's Restorative Power

01:04 Engaging with the Audience

02:24 Introducing Emma Lowey and Her Book

03:18 Emma's Early Inspirations and Environmental Path

04:26 The Personal and Passionate Journey of Writing

06:21 The Impact of Nature on Mental Health

09:20 The Science Behind Nature's Benefits 09:48 Creative Processes During the Pandemic

12:14 Exploring Different Landscapes 13:35 The Healing Power of Water and Forests

23:08 Practical Steps for Environmental Action

26:21 Emma's Personal Practices and Final Thoughts

31:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/celebrating-37-years-of-joy-an-interview-with-retiring-educator-molly-barnes/

In this heartfelt episode, Paula interviews Molly Barnes, the beloved principal and superintendent of Sunol Glenn Elementary. Molly shares her passionate journey in education, reflecting on the joy and challenges of her career. Listeners get an inside look at her unique approach to fostering a welcoming and enthusiastic school environment. Discover the powerful moments and intentional choices that have made Sunol Glenn Elementary a special place for students, parents, and staff alike. As Molly prepares for her well-deserved retirement, she discusses the importance of building strong community relationships, supporting educators, and creating joyful learning experiences. Tune in to hear moving stories, valuable insights, and the impactful legacy of a dedicated educator who truly made a difference.

Resources: 

Molly receiving the Woman of the Year Award from Alex Lee

Coverage of Molly's retirement in the Pleasanton Weekly

Others:

Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.

Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com

Sign up for the free labyrinth walk guide: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Here are some of the key moments in this interview:

Earliest Sparks of Joy in Education: Molly Barnes talks about her childhood experiences that ignited her passion for education, including her love for school supplies and the excitement of preparing for a new school year.

Impact of Political Climate in Education: Molly reflects on the challenges posed by the political environment and its influence on the school district, emphasizing the importance of keeping the focus on students' well-being and learning.

Importance of Community in Education: Molly shares the significance of building a strong sense of community within the school, highlighting the roles of teachers, parents, and students in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

Molly Barnes' Retirement Plans: As she approaches retirement, Molly discusses her future plans, including spending time with her family and potentially volunteering in local schools to continue her passion for education.

Supporting Educators and Teachers: Both Paula and Molly discuss the critical role parents and the community can play in supporting teachers and school staff. They emphasize the need for understanding, communication, and collaboration to foster a positive educational experience for all.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:19 Meet Molly Barnes: A Celebrated Educator 

02:13 Molly's Early Sparks of Joy 

03:11 The Excitement of Back-to-School 

06:20 The Role of Community in Education 

09:19 Navigating Political Challenges 

13:03 A Unique Commuter School 

20:25 The Benefits and Challenges of a Small School 

26:16 Memorable Moments at Sunol Glen 

30:41 Heartfelt Reflections 

32:05 The Changing Landscape of Education 

35:36 Supporting Teachers and Administrators 

36:50 Challenges in the Teaching Profession 

42:27 Memorable Teachers and Experiences 

45:22 Award Recognition and Community Support 

47:22 Retirement Plans and Future Aspirations 

51:02 Spreading Joy and Final Thoughts 

52:56 Closing Remarks and Reflections

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/07/activism-and-resilience-with-christy-tending-writing-through-grief-and-joy/

I'm welcoming back my friend and author Christy Tending. Christy is joining me to discuss her new book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," which is a lyrical exploration of disobedience, grief, healing, and climate activism. Packed with heartfelt reflections and practical advice for activists, Christy's book offers a unique blend of memoir and guide.

We also dive into a thoughtful conversation about the personal and societal challenges we've faced over the last few years, highlighting the importance of community, preparedness, and personal resilience. We discuss the practical aspects of activism, the emotional toll of recent global events, and how Christy's writing has navigated these complex landscapes.

Key Highlights:

• Christy talks about the inspiration and process behind writing "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse," including the challenges of writing about deeply personal and societal issues.
• The importance of community and collective efforts in activism and beyond.
• Practical tips for personal and activist preparedness, including a PSA about phone security.
• The process of submitting work to literary magazines and dealing with rejection as a writer.
• Encouragement for creators to pursue their projects without waiting for external validation or permission.

Resources:

• Find Christy's book: ChristyTending.com/books
• Follow Christy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christytending
• Buy Christy's book, "The High Priestess of the Apocalypse" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3W71dc4

• Subscribe to Jump Start Your Joy for free on your favorite app by clicking here.
• Check out Jump Start Your Joy's back catalog and resources: JumpstartYourJoy.com
• Support the show on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome

00:20 Introducing Christy and Her New Book

00:33 Exploring the Themes of the Book

01:04 Community and Resources for Listeners

02:08 Christy's Journey and Writing Process

03:37 Navigating Modern Challenges

10:47 Practical Tips for Activists

15:13 Emergency Preparedness and Community Support

21:39 The Power of Community in Publishing

26:56 The Weird Book Thing

27:05 Self-Publishing Journey

27:48 Making Cool Stuff Without Permission

29:04 The Challenges of Writing a Book 

30:18 Processing Isolation and Loss

39:37 The Role of an Editor

41:16 The Importance of Specificity in Writing

48:58 Finding Joy in the Little Things

50:59 Final Thoughts and Inspiration

 

Read the full show notes: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/2024/06/finding-joy-through-structure-and-elegance-with-jennifer-l-scott/

In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, Paula interviews Jennifer L. Scott, the New York Times bestselling author of the Madame Chic Series and content creator behind The Daily Connoisseur, who shares how adding structure and more formality to life can bring intentional joy.

Jennifer highlights her experiences living with a traditional family in Paris, her journey as a YouTuber through the Daily Connoisseur, and how she navigates homeschooling while balancing her professional life.

The conversation dives into how self-discipline and mindful living can transform daily routines, and Jennifer offers tips on being present, observing nature, and incorporating lifelong learning into one's lifestyle. Paula also introduces a new segment on inspiration, intention, or action, encouraging listeners to continually seek personal growth.

Resources:

Buy Jennifer's Book, Lessons From Madame Chic: https://amzn.to/3KYSCln

The Daily Connoisseur on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEnEnLT5wBVnK56QFRg_Iwg

Jennifer L. Scott's website: https://jenniferlscott.com/

Jump Start Your Joy's website: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/

Labyrinth Walk information: https://jumpstartyourjoy.com/labyrinth-basics/

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:42 Jennifer L. Scott's Background and YouTube Channel 03:34 The Joys of Childhood and Early Inspirations 05:40 Writing the Madame Chic Series 08:08 Living a Formal Life: Lessons from Paris 10:43 Pandemic Reflections and Seeking Structure 16:23 Community Feedback and Personal Transformations 22:28 The Struggles of YouTube Content Creation 22:58 Taking YouTube Seriously 24:25 Balancing YouTube and Personal Life 26:36 The Chic Assignments 29:54 Homeschooling and Delegation 31:17 The Reality Behind YouTube Success 34:21 Future Plans and Community Building 37:37 Final Thoughts and Inspirations