Bounce Back Stronger with Donna Ferris

Finding Zen in Chaos with Chuck Schad

"We have 70,000 thoughts, and 90% of them are not new. Until we see this for  what it is, we are prisoners to it."
This week’s guest is Chuck Schad, a witty and wise meditation teacher who's been guiding folks through life's ups and downs for over four decades. Chuck, founder of The Inner Theater, brings a refreshing blend of humor and honesty to the world of meditation.
In this engaging conversation, Chuck draws from his wealth of experience and training to shed light on how meditation can truly transform the way we handle life's challenges, including depression, addiction, and anxiety. Through his entertaining stories, he illustrates how both he and his students have triumphed over the chaos of their minds and lives through the practice of meditation.  
So grab your cushion, find a comfy spot, and join us for a fun and enlightening chat.
If you want to learn about Chuck’s meditation offerings, please visit theinnertheater.com or contact him on Facebook @chuckschad
I hope this episode is helpful to you. If it is, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with others.
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 15-19 please visit our information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter, which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow us on Instagram @donnayferris or join the Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging @donnayatesferris or emailing donnayferris@minichangeyoga.com.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

A Master Class in Memoir with Award Winning Editor Melanie Votaw

This episode is a master class in memoir, personal essay, and self-help non-fiction. Our guest, Melanie Votaw, author, editor, and book coach, brings over two decades of editing and writing experience to the table, all in service of individuals crafting and sharing their tales of triumph.
Melanie unveils the secrets behind her remarkable success in guiding others to tell their stories. From self-help books to memoirs, she has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, boasting an impressive portfolio of 39 nonfiction books as an author or ghostwriter, alongside over 75 edited works for publishing houses like Macmillan, Hay House, and Penguin Random House.
Discover how Melanie's expertise has propelled numerous narratives onto the prestigious New York Times Best Seller List, earning her a plethora of awards and accolades along the way. Whether you're an aspiring author seeking guidance or a reader eager to uncover storytelling's power, this episode will ignite your passion for the written word.
If you want to learn more about Melanie’s work, including her editing services, please visit https://melanievotaw.com or follow her on Instagram @melanievotaw. And if you like to travel, she is also the editor for the luxury travel site: https://luxurywebmagazine.com
Thank you so much for listening.
I hope this episode was helpful. If it was, please subscribe, drop a review, or share it with your friends and family. That’s the best way to get it in the hands of those who may benefit.
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 15-19, please visit our information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or join my Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging me @donnayatesferris or emailing me at donnayferris@minichangeyoga.com.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

The Healing Power of Wonder with Caldecott Winner Micha Archer

“Kids know how to wonder…they still believe anything can happen...hopefully, they pass it on to their parents…”
I reached out to this week’s guest, Caldecott winner Micha Archer, after seeing her work in the Brandywine River Museum exhibition, "Rooted: Family and Nature in Contemporary Children's Book Illustration (open until February 28th)."
Strolling through the exhibit with my children, I was so inspired by the enchanting illustrations in her book "Wonder Walkers" and instantly tied them to mindfulness walks - an activity that is incredibly healing for those going through difficulty (it is my favorite form of self-care).
“Wonder Walkers” is a story that explores the boundless curiosity and wonder of two children as they navigate the miracles of nature. Questions like "Is the sun the world’s light bulb?" and "Are shells the shore’s necklace?" come to life through Micha's art, fostering a sense of awe and exploration.
During our conversation, Micha shares her journey from gathering the wisdom of the young children in her life to crafting captivating and poetic picture books. Then we delve into Micha's creative process, her profound connection to walking, and the neuroscience behind the healing wonder she instills in her storytelling.
From overcoming challenges to the importance of nurturing creativity in young minds, Micha shares invaluable insights for aspiring writers and artists. Don't miss this gentle conversation with a magical storyteller whose work inspires awe in all who encounter it.
To learn more about Micha and her work, visit her site or follow her beautiful page on Instagram @michaarcherart
Click here to learn about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC (May 15-19). 
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or join my Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging me @donnayatesferris or emailing me at donnayferris@minichangeyoga.com.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

Create Your Life Meditation

"The key is consistency and dedicating intentional time to your dreams each day. You do it for so many other things, other people, and your job. Take this time to do it for you."
This guided meditation invites you to create space in your mind, so you can visualize the life you dream of. 
This meditation accompanies the Create Your Life chapter of the book Bounce Back Stronger - Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens which you can purchase here.
The music for this meditation is The Light Within by Moments.

The Unexpected Joy of Being Single with Crystal Jackson

“I don’t look at being single as a sad thing. I’ve gotten really comfortable with it, and I think it’s beautiful.”
This week we delve deep into the heart of author and therapist Crystal Jackson's journey. With candor, humor, and authenticity, Crystal shares her experiences of love, divorce, and the unexpected joys of singlehood. But it's not just about navigating life solo; Crystal opens up about the profound friendships and newfound confidence that have blossomed along the way. 
From navigating life's twists and turns to fostering a sense of community through her writing, Crystal has become a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere (including me). Her words resonate deeply, offering comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
As Valentine's Day approaches, Crystal reminds us that love isn't limited to romantic relationships; it begins with self-love and acceptance. Whether you're single, coupled, or somewhere in between, this episode is sure to leave you feeling inspired, entertained, and empowered.
I hope this episode is helpful to you. If it is, please join us on this journey toward peace and purpose by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others.
To follow Crystal’s writing click here. To learn more about her Heart of Madison book series click here. She can also be followed on Instagram & Facebook @crystaljackson.writer
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 22-26 please visit our information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or join my Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging me @donnayatesferris or emailing me at donnayferris@minichangeyoga.com.
If you're looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

Breaking Broadway Barriers with Madison Ferris

"Ultimately, you don't really have a choice of what you like to do...I find if I say yes to the opportunities that do come along it makes me a whole lot happier."
I'm so excited to share this interview with Broadway actress Madison Ferris.
At just 25 years old, Madison Ferris left an indelible mark on Broadway history by becoming the first actress in a wheelchair to play a leading role. In Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie, she took on the challenging part of Laura Wingfield, the reclusive daughter, opposite the legendary Sally Field. Madison's interpretation of Laura shattered traditional stereotypes, presenting her as a headstrong teenager navigating life with muscular dystrophy, rather than conforming to the morbidly shy archetype.
During our delightful and inspiring interview, she shares her journey from Schuylkill Haven to realizing her Broadway dream - and she describes her "Yes, and..." outlook on life - which is precisely what I (and maybe all of us) need to hear.
And...she's about to take the New York City stage again this April in the play All of Me, a story crafted with Madison in mind for the lead. Described as a hilarious and candid portrayal of class and disability in modern America, this promises to be another milestone in Madison's already stellar career.
I hope this episode is helpful for you. If it is, please join us on this journey toward peace and purpose by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others.
For information about Madison’s upcoming play All of Me click here. To read more about her click here.
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 22-26 please visit our information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or join my Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging me @donnayatesferris.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

Women and Heart Health – Surprising Facts You Need to Know

"It's important that we put ourselves at the top of the to-do list. We don't need to be number one, or two or three, but come on - let's be in the top five."
This week’s guest has a story that is nothing short of remarkable—Leigh Pechillo survived a widow-maker heart attack and overcame not one but four sudden cardiac arrests. Rather than letting these challenges define her, she has emerged as a passionate advocate for women and heart health as well as a staunch supporter of Hands-Only CPR awareness (a link to a video that teaches this life-giving practice can be found below).
I invited Leigh to the show this week because Friday is Go Red For Women's Day and February is American Heart Disease Month—both highlight the importance of knowing your risk factors for heart disease as well as what to do if someone around you shows signs of having a heart attack.
In this episode, Leigh shares some surprising facts about at-home heart attacks - and her candid recounting of her own experiences and the lessons she learned is truly inspiring. Her resilience through the toughest times is a powerful testament to the strength derived from perspective, gratitude, and the belief that even the smallest efforts can make a significant difference.
I hope you will listen in and share this episode as it has life-giving information and showcases the incredible journey of someone who successfully turned adversity into advocacy.
The heart-related links Leigh mentions can be found below, and her Instagram handle is @wholeheartedleigh.
Hands-Only CPR
Go Red for Women Resources
Leigh Pechillo Huffington Post Articles
I hope this episode is helpful to you. If it is, please join us on this journey toward peace and purpose by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others.
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 22-26 please visit our information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes monthly essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or join my Bounce Back Stronger Facebook group by messaging me @donnayatesferris or emailing me at donnayferris@minichangeyoga.com.
And if you’re looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

Find Happiness After Loss with Maria Sirois

Five years ago, I attended a retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health with this week's podcast guest, Maria Sirois. It was the first anniversary of a dear one's passing and even though I thought I was making progress in my healing journey, the anniversary dragged up the loss as if it was new. 
After three days with Maria, I understood what was happening to me, had the tools to move forward, and was able to get back on the healing path.
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to interview her for this podcast.
She did not disappoint.
A little about Maria - She has over three decades of expertise, in empowering individuals and organizations with the knowledge, tools, and narratives essential for fostering resilience, well-being, wisdom, and effective leadership—particularly in the face of life's adversities.
Renowned for her wisdom, compassion, and honesty, Maria's brilliance lies in sharing vital lessons on discovering grounded optimism amidst heartbreak. As the author of impactful books like "A Short Course in Happiness After Loss (And Other Dark, Difficult Times)" and "Every Day Counts," her influence extends beyond the written word to encompass speaking engagements, workshops, and global consulting.
In this episode, Maria shares profound insights into navigating the intricacies of grief and uncovering happiness after loss. She explores the significance of optimism, the normalcy within the grieving process, and universal practices to facilitate the journey. These practices include the benefits of connection, communion with nature, and the art of quieting the mind. 
If after listening you would like to learn more about her work, a link to her website can be found here. She will also be conducting a retreat program titled "Finding Happiness in Difficult Times" at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health from Feb. 2-4, 2024. I highly recommend this experience for anyone on the path to overcoming loss or difficulty. 
I hope this episode is helpful to you. If it is, please spread the word about this podcast by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others. Thank you so much for your help.
To learn more about our upcoming Soak Up the Sun Retreat in Duck, NC May 22-26 please visit the information page here
To join our email list to receive our monthly newsletter which includes essays on living a peaceful and purposeful life as well as book reviews, TV and movie reviews, funny memes, and inspirational quotes, click here.
You can also follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or on Facebook @donnayatesferris.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

The Best Gift for Our Kids with Laura Ward

Join us for this heartfelt conversation with sobriety coach Laura Ward, who shares the many reasons why she broke free from alcohol. Top of the list?
Her children. 
In this candid discussion, Laura openly shares the tools she provides to her clients - which are valuable for anyone on a personal growth journey - whether dealing with a complicated medical diagnosis, guiding teenagers through challenging moments, confronting unforeseen job loss, or grieving significant losses.
I learned so much from this episode, and hope it's helpful for you too.  If so, please join us on this journey toward peace and purpose by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others.
To learn more about Laura’s coaching services, please visit her website www.laurapward.com
Are you interested in learning how to tap into your intuition and energetic wisdom to improve your life? Join us for our February 18, 2024, in-person (West Chester, PA) Reiki 1 / Spiritual Energy 101 Class. Click here for the details.
To learn about our life and career coaching services, please click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or on Facebook @donnayatesferris.
If you’re looking for mental health resources, please click here or contact your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).

Finding Your Way to Peace and Happiness with Sharon Salzberg

In this transformative episode of Bounce Back Stronger, we have the privilege of sitting down with a true pioneer in the world of meditation, Sharon Salzberg. As a world-renowned teacher, bestselling author, and co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, Sharon has been at the forefront of bringing mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture for nearly five decades.
Join us as we delve into Sharon's incredible journey, exploring how she came to write her new book Finding Your Way and earlier works, including Loving Kindness – The Revolutionary Art of Happiness, Faith – Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience, and Love Your Enemies – How to Break the Anger Habit and Be a Whole Lot Happier. She also talks about the difficulties she overcame as a child and how one of her mentors insisted she would become a well-known meditation teacher when she doubted it was possible.  
This episode is a masterclass in finding a path to peace and happiness. Whether new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, Sharon Salzberg's timeless wisdom will inspire you to tap into the power of this practice to bounce back stronger and cultivate a more resilient, happy life.
I hope this episode is helpful for you. If it is, please join us on this journey toward peace and purpose by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others. 
If you would like to learn more about Sharon, please visit her website www.sharonsalzberg.com
For information on my in-person (West Chester, PA) Reiki 1 / Spiritual Energy 101 Class click here.
To learn about our life, grief, and career coaching services, please click here.
Follow me on Instagram @donnayferris or on Facebook @donnayatesferris.
If you are looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only).