Curious Navel (Jane Markson)

Laura is a delightful, rare, and beautiful combination of artist and spiritual mentor. As an artist, she creates bronze statutes that have traveled around the world to inspire and raise money for charities and found their way into the homes of collectors. And as a spiritual mentor, she encourages us all to shower our “shadowy bits” with light and love, invite our demons to tea, and remember that we have the power to lead with positivity. Her manner and message will carry you through your day.

Cory left behind the military and a job in IT to become an artisan woodworker, reclaiming and milling trees that can no longer provide shade, to give them a new life as unique pieces of furniture. While he may never get the chance to actually sing Stairway to Heaven, his life will be full as he shares his talent and if asked, the shirt off his back.

Rick grew up one of 12 children of migrant workers, in a small town in New Mexico, and was one of the first in his family to go to college – not because he had a particular drive to achieve, but because he simply liked school. But more important than his academic success, and his tremendous skill as a drug and alcohol counselor, has been the way he continuously embodies the most profound and simple lessons taught by his parents – be a good worker and a good helper.

He grew up boxing and combined his love of the sport with his incredibly positive spirit to become a mentor, teaching kids at boxing gyms that the intangibles – love, honor, and loyalty – have the most value. He lives in the present and makes sure that everyone who touches his life, in both big and small ways, get the respect they deserve. As Steve says, what does it cost to be nice? You will come away from listening to Steve’s perspective with a kinder and more open heart.

Though he didn’t land the role of Peter Rabbit when he was five, he’s been entertaining and charming us ever since, whether on Days of our Lives or The Nanny. Charlie is a delightful storyteller with an optimism that is infectious. But what makes him truly special is his kind heart and perspective on life.

If you are looking for a trusted advisor, look no further. Jeff shared the straightforward guidance on which his clients rely that will stay with me as well --  set your core values and remind yourself of them daily, remain true to who you are, and remember that you can improve your future based on what you’ve learned in the past.

If you do anything today, listen to Seth’s episode. You will be treated to so many morsels of wisdom that you will want to hit repeat. Seth is a musician who connects with his audience on a personal level because he knows, from the bully who stopped him from singing as a kid, that not trying is worse than not succeeding. You will cheer his words, especially when he reminds you that you are never alone.

She can trace her ancestors to the Mayflower and hold hands with ghosts. And though she has no fear of true crime stories and houses haunted by axe murderers, you won’t find her anywhere near a mummy. Listen to Sylvia take us on a ride with some of the stories she tells in her books.

I’ve never met an aggressive introvert, but if I ever do, I hope it’s Brad. He’s an enthusiastic and upbeat guy and when he says that anything is possible, I believe it.

Paul’s enthusiasm for his passion is impressive – he’s a blacksmith who creates authentic swords and knives with the same method used hundreds of years ago, in a forge built by his father. It was a pleasure to meet this unique man who loves animals and believes that life is too short to be mean, angry, or miserable.

Paul's YouTube channel

You may know him from The Wonder Years and his impressive catalog of film and theatre work, but you may not know his enthusiasm for sharing the stories of the women who changed history. It was fascinating to hear him share acting advice, and his pride in working with Big Brothers. And don’t miss hearing about his latest project supporting local theatre – check out NJRep.org!

Whether working with her digital marketing clients or producing a burlesque show, Kate is a kind and charming truth teller. She ignores her fears but will help you with yours – unless it’s finally the day she puts herself first.

Montana born and bred, Jesse moved his family to Portugal post-pandemic, even though they didn’t speak Portuguese. He is brave and independent and has always turned a “can’t” into a “can.” He’s written several books about big data, but when his novel is released, I will be among the first to order it.

Paula is impressive – she is an advocate for supporting women’s intimacy at her VSpot clinic, and a former helicopter pilot. You will learn about her journey to motherhood and be moved by her mantra – she loves to love.

Mary describes herself as a “late bloomer”, but in reality she is someone who continues to bloom by keeping herself open to new opportunities and challenges. From DJ to beekeeper, she is delightful and kind, with a spirit that will bring some light to your day.

Stephanie is the person we all need, with her straight no chaser style of motivation, and her insight on how to work through our stories and live our best life.  She applied those lessons to her own life to triumph over challenges most of us have not had to face and help countless others along the way.

Shelley packed up her car in Oklahoma and drove to California without a job, an apartment, or a plan, simply because she always wanted to live in “Hollywood.” She’s a performer, a comedian, and a writer who turned her independence into a successful career. Talking to Shelley was more than fun – and you will have to listen to be treated to one of the best jokes I’ve heard in a long time.

From body building to acting to running a Pilates studio, Stacey doesn’t let anyone stop her. She takes chances because she doesn’t want to leave this life with regret. She may not ever run for office but I vote that she share her secret to loving life.

I admit I’m biased when it comes to Sue, but listen to her charming and delightful interview and you will learn why she is one of my best friends. She is independent and self-sufficient but not afraid to reveal the enormous soft spot she has for her family and friends. And you won’t want to miss the story she tells about her hockey coach Dad.

I don’t know what fascinates me more about Eric – the fact that he is an accomplished jazz musician, admired by Dave Brubeck, or the fact that he is a documentary filmmaker focusing on paranormal activity, and verifying the existence of the Beast of Bray Road. Listen for a treat….if you dare!

Eric Mintel Quartet

Bucks County Paranormal Investigations

I want to be more like Cathy, who has lived her life knowing that if a door is open, you can walk through it without a plan and figure it out along the way! She was able to use that strength to pursue her life’s work, which is simply an embodiment of her desire to help others along their journey. Cathy spreads unconditional love and reminds her family and friends not to let anyone dictate what you can achieve.

He became an athlete to avoid being bullied and played football in college, but it wasn’t until he was comfortably miserable at a desk job that he turned his passion for fitness into a personal training and self-defense business. And at the core of his coaching is a simple rule – have empathy and don’t live for anyone else’s approval.

As a woman in construction, Christina is in the minority, but she doesn’t mind because she loves what she does. She can fix or build almost anything and in her “spare” time she started a candle business and hopes to expand to self-care products. But most impressive is Christina’s perspective – banish the doubters and keep trying, because if you do, you will get there, even if you have to take a detour.

Julie is the teacher you will wish you had in school – she is kind, warm, and supportive. She is living her dream, even though she knows she is not done learning and growing. She taught me that table manners can be an expression of love, and that the little sister should never be underestimated.

WARNING: He’s taken. This is one of my favorite episodes since Billy is one of my favorite people. He is smart and kind, but more important, he makes me laugh every day. Don’t miss this one.

He’s semi-retired from radio and now edits crappy novels and creates art that makes you scratch your head. He will tell you without hesitation about his ADHD and the fact that he doesn’t plan, but drifting and leaving himself open to opportunity has led him down some amazing and surprising paths.

https://www.youtube.com/@BobPagani

Ned loves rock and roll (the real kind), being a broadcaster, garlic, and Christmas. He is the real Santa, and if you book him in advance, he will even be the minister at your wedding. Ned says he's most proud of his children and grandchildren because they put up with him, but I doubt that’s a challenge, since he is as delightful as you would imagine Santa to be.

Angela is the girl you wish you’ve been friends with since high school. She’s first-generation Sicilian, with a secret recipe for the best meatballs you’ve ever tasted, and she has a sense of humor and energy you would want to be around even if she weren’t an amazing cook.

From Seattle, to New York, to Germany, to California, Anne found her way to Texas where she heals and motivates people to pursue their life paths and passions, and to connect with their intuition. She knows that what matters most is not what you do but how you make someone feel, and she makes sure to pass along friendship and encouragement to those in her life.

Jessica may know a lot about air conditioner compressors, but she took advantage of lockdown to learn something even better – how to smoke meat and make the perfect soup. She learned how to turn a shy frightened kid into a person who will try new things and not care what other people think. Whether she opens her Little Z’s Café, or stars in a musical, I have no doubt she will succeed.

Author, empath, mentor, investigator, editor --- it all comes together in her quest to uncover the energy of desire and spark others on their journey to discover what makes them irresistible. She is the creator of SoulCandy and she lives by a simple rule – keep trying new things.

Marvin is definitely the person you want to answer when you contact a call center. He will resolve your issue with his kind and easy-going manner. He’s willing to dive off a mountain in a wing suit, doesn’t worry about fear, and finds his joy in just hanging with his friends and playing video games. We could all use some Marvin attitude in our day.

It was an honor to meet Andres, who lives in town with no stoplight, can trace his routes in New Mexico back five hundred years, and has come face to face with a mountain lion. He is insightful and kind, and through the personal challenges he’s faced, simply wants us to remember not to judge ourselves too harshly.

A high school job at a cosmetics counter led Amy to a career she loves as an aesthetician. But Amy makes people feel more than beautiful – she makes them feel heard and cared for. She is truly selfless, happy to make others happy, so I know that if she ever gets to open a Bed and Breakfast on the beach, it will be a huge success.

Courtney is a pediatric sleep coach – aka magician and healer. And she is a hero, having survived an incredible challenge. Most important, she is an inspiration. Listening to her will give you one of your “awesomes” for the day (and of course you have to listen to get the reference.)

Tiny Transitions Child & Adult Sleep Consulting

Meet a technology entrepreneur and car geek who became a father “overnight”, changing his life course and expanding his heart.

The Carpreneur Podcast

Adrien loves being a pro-wrestler and performing for a crowd as much as he loves coaching and teaching his skill to the next generation of wrestlers. He has learned to listen to his instincts and be a loving and reliable brother and boyfriend. Here’s to hoping he finds the perfect chocolate chip cookie!

I cannot stop smiling from my conversation with Darrel. He is a true creative soul, kind and compassionate, and committed to making sure his clients don’t give into aging. He is proud of his say yes attitude (even if he doubts himself), loves punk music, and doesn’t think I’m a stalker. (You have to listen to know what that means!)

Jonah made a bold choice at 17 to intern in Los Angeles and endure a 7-8 hour round trip commute so he could pursue his career. But his most impactful story is the one he tells daily, encouraging everyone he meets on their “soul journey” to remember that our purpose is to expand with each experience and not let fear define our choices. Listen and learn why we should each have an ancestor table.

Robbie is a young music teacher with an old soul, who adores his grandparents and polish pastries. And if, after listening to our conversation, you have not packed up your bags to travel to the nearest Polka festival, please reconsider as you might be missing out on something that could change your life.

Speaking with Jaciel was delightful – he is genuine, upbeat, thoughtful, and kind. And incredibly brave – a news anchor who is comfortable singing and acting in a starring role! You won’t see him headlining on a cruise ship, but if you have the chance to meet Jaciel, grab it.

Doug transitioned from pro wrestling to sales but from his perspective, they are no different – everyone is a natural salesman whether you are asking your parents for a toy or asking someone for a date. My goal is to hang with Doug and hope some of his natural Zen attitude rubs off on me – right after I watch his YouTube show, Cooking with Beer…with a beer.

Sweetie embodies her name as she pursues a life mission to teach and encourage folks to bring their highest purpose to fruition, wanting only to be remembered as someone who loved every moment of her journey.

http://sweetieberry.com/

http://developworth.com/

Meet a charming entrepreneur and philanthropist who always shows up for her family and community, and lives for sushi and tacos.

Give Back Lehigh Valley

Ronnie spent 20 years as a police officer, retired as Chief of Police in his Texas town, and is now the author he always wanted to be. He made a difference by catching the bad guys, and now he is living his message – no matter how farfetched the dream, take a chance.

Lisa is incredibly honest and brave, sharing that she is a survivor of domestic abuse who found the strength to transform her life. As a nutrition and wellness coach, comfortable speaking in front of a crowd of a thousand people, she speaks her truth and gives a voice to others. Her message is inspiring – if all you can do today is breathe, stay curious about tomorrow.

Glenn’s dedication to spreading the love he derives from his faith is inspiring, as is his journey, from private investigator and auctioneer to running a garden and mowing ministry for his church. His unerring faith is remarkable and I’m certain that you will be moved by his sincerity.

After over 130 episodes, I’ve been struggling with how to keep Curious Navel fresh and interesting when people know what I’m going to ask. While I do my best to pick up nuggets that an answer reveals and explore the stranger I’m trying to get to know, I think it’s time to change it up and start fresh with a new set of questions. But first, since I thought you might be curious to know how I would have answered the questions I’ve been asking, Steve will interview me. In full disclosure, I thought ahead about some of my answers, but really enjoyed the curve balls Steve threw me.

Mary is living her best life in West Palm Beach writing and bringing her positive attitude everywhere she goes – and it all started when she saw a tiger plunge into a bubble bath. As Mary says, never give up on yourself, and you are certain to find your joy and purpose.

Denise has a strength and a spirit that you will not forget. She changed her family history not only by graduating high school but by becoming a college professor. As Denise tells it, she is an ordinary person who, because of circumstances and resilience, did extraordinary things.

Damon is industrious and intentional, building on his knowledge of computers and search engines to create a successful business. But his most impressive achievement is his dedication to doing things to make others happy – without any recognition.

From pharmaceutical sales, to life coach for women over 50, Connie always incorporates charity and service in her endeavors. She is sweet and delightful, and as she adjusts to retired life in Myrtle Beach, I hope she gets to star in the rom-com of her dreams!

My conversation with Michael changed my day and I only wish I had several hours to speak with him. He may have started out guessing what he was going to be, but he landed at a place where he shares his useful articulations of truth to our benefit. His views moved and motivated me and I trust you will feel the same.

Sally may describe herself as traditional – a devoted wife, mom, and homemaker – but she has achieved success on her own terms and found the strength to channel her inner Lola after her husband passed away. She has a big heart and a sweet sense of humor, and I hope she gets to meet Donny Osmond.

My conversation with Philip has no precedent – I didn’t ask many questions because his story was so compelling that it was most important that I simply listen. He lives the lessons he conveys, that pain may teach you a lesson, but pride will let you learn. With compassion and love, he is making a difference, one life at a time.

Since Bevin grew up moving around, she knows what it means to be the new kid, and now keeps her arms wide open to understand everyone she meets. She is both rooted in science as an industrial hygienist (you have to listen to understand), and in music, deriving her talent from her father. It’s important to her to break down racial barriers and teach people one on one that inequity should be challenged. It was a delicious conversation, and if I ever get to meet her I will let her drive (again, you have to listen to understand.)

Jasmeet is one of a kind – inspiring, hardworking, passionate, and memorable – you will love hearing his viewpoint that kindness doesn’t cost anything, live for love talk with love, and Coke is better than Pepsi!

Aman's Artisan Indian Cuisine

Ambrosial Films

If you have a pup, find your way to Megan – she is a passionate and compassionate dog trainer, who listens to the animals as well as their owners. She has a kind heart, loves knee football and grits from Jacksonville, and is simply delightful.

Dave moved into a 300-year-old farmhouse for his health but he did more than transform the home – he discovered a way to heal the incredible pain he was experiencing. He would not trade his journey because it helped him gain a skill and perspective very few know.

As an author and college professor, she champions the women in our history who have made, and continue to make a difference. Her SAY YES attitude is inspiring and it changed the course of her own life. As Nikki says, we have to make the most of whatever comes our way.

With tremendous grace and humility, Pete is the sole caregiver to his father who suffers from a debilitating disease. But that has not stopped Pete from continuing his journey to improve his own health – a year ago he could barely ride around his neighborhood and now he can easily bike 50 miles! Pete is remarkable and I look forward to making “gravy” using his family secret.

She’s a dancer, meditation instructor, brave enough to walk on hot coals, adventurous enough to learn TikTok, loving grandmother, proud mother, and one of the loveliest and kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet. She wants to be remembered as having said yes to life, and I’m certainly glad she said yes to Curious Navel!

It’s not surprising that Jim is a self-described passionate extrovert, as his goal is to connect people around the world based on their common interests. I have no doubt he will create something that will be historically significant through his unique “identity expression network”. Not sure what that means? Listen and learn – you won’t be disappointed.

Since the moment Sally Lou saw a woman carrying a clipboard and wearing a headset at a taping of the Mike Douglas show, she knew what she wanted to do. From working on the Oprah Winfrey show to becoming an author and motivational speaker, Sally Lou has lived her mantras: Be Brave and Do What You Love.

Ariella’s role as a mother of four young adults is most important to her, but she finds time to be a humanitarian building bridges with those in need, and a self-published author of several fantasy novels. She honors her Cherokee heritage, and moved me with her insight – that we each have the choice to help ourselves and inspire others to do the same.

It was a pleasure to speak with this warm, modest, and talented performer who shared his passion for several years on tour as Bob Crewe in The Jersey Boys. Though musical theatre is on hold, he remains devoted to the art of storytelling. Listen to his story, and you will get to know his kind and gentle soul.

Despite Chad’s melting pot heritage, he is more connected to the fact that he is a Virgo – a hard-working, sometimes over analytical guy, who is not afraid to show emotion. He took his background as an athlete to become a sports performance specialist, emphasizing fun while incorporating health and wellness into coaching athletes. His path to the career he loves was not a straight line, but as Chad says, sometimes you find your destiny when you’re trying to walk away from it.

This born and bred Texas girl is a performer and writer who turned her love of theatre into a voice over career and most recently, a career in real estate. She’s grateful for all her bumps in the road and has learned the lessons we all need to hear….start sooner, don’t be afraid, and my personal favorite, he’s not worth it.

This kind and open soul is a pianist, composer, and professor who will move you with his bravery. It was inspiring to hear his story and learn that he does not let the challenges he’s faced diminish his life – whether pursuing his passion for music, encouraging his students to do what they love, or living a full and joyous life with his husband.

If you are ever invited to a party hosted by Donna, you can be confident that she will make sure your needs are met. She is focused on making a connection, creating a supportive environment, and learning your love language. Even if she never gets the nerve to jump out of an airplane, I know she will make an impact.

She can date her Pennsylvania roots to the 1700’s and has learned to make everything from rustic apple pie to formal picnic punch. But I was most impressed by Denise’s enthusiasm for her marketing business and her passion to learn something new every day. She trusts her instincts and isn’t afraid to take risks – whether in the stock market or at a karaoke bar.

Not many kids choose their career by seventh grade, but not many kids are as logical and clear headed as Damon. He’s an engineer and patent attorney who relies on reason more than emotion, but that didn’t fool me -- this future farmer has passionate views and a huge soft spot for his family.

Speaking to Carol is like catching up with your favorite neighbor. She lives on 40 acres and loves her privacy, but she’s bold enough to knock on strangers’ doors and learn how to ride a gift horse (you’ll have to listen to understand!)

Once a Long Islander, always a Long Islander. But Paul does more than love the Yankees and the beach, he is a compassionate teacher whose goal is to lend his support when someone is struggling. He lives his mission through his early intervention and education drug program – and his empathy skills came in handy when he met his wife.

From traveling to Central America as a labor organizer and human rights activist to becoming a massage therapist and owning a spa in Syracuse, Ed’s core values of justice and compassion shine. He is a compelling storyteller and shares the wisdom he acquired hitchhiking across the country. My next book is going to be the one he just published – Nobody Hitchhikes Anymore – because our half hour conversation left me wanting to learn more from Ed.

Cat looks at the broader view to find the richest stories – both in her photography and in her perspective. She’s learned from her challenges and triumphs that failure is not the end of the world, and from the loss of her parents that she is allowed to love herself. I look forward to bringing a pot luck dish to her party and dancing through the night.

After losing her husband unexpectedly, Kim embarked on a journey to discover the true meaning of love. Spending much of her time in Haiti, Kim unveiled some simple yet powerful rules – service is healing, love is a constant, and begin by loving yourself. Her message is certain to stay with you.

Matt’s job is perfectly suited for him because he loves interacting with people, understanding where and who they are, and making them happy. He has simple likes – a perfect ribeye steak and running with his dog outside – and a simple, yet profound perspective on life. He’s half my age, yet I learned so much from Matt and I’m sure you will too!

This adventure started based on an idea that came to me like an Elizabeth Gilbert Big Magic Moment. I didn’t have any expectations other than to welcome anyone willing to speak with me into a community where others could learn about their story – because each one of us has an important and special one to share.

It’s been an honor to listen and get to know so many wonderful people, and I look forward to the next iteration where we continue to explore what we have in common.

I hope you listen to this wrap up with my producer Steve and his wife Jenn, and then join me again on the next installment of this journey!

Shmuel moved to Israel not only for his spiritual journey, but also for the culture, the people, and the proximity to nature. His health coaching venture embraces his belief that keeping it simple and incorporating mindfulness and spirituality is key to complete health. His modesty, honesty, and perspective on addressing fear is certain to resonate.

Rebecca’s second graders are lucky to have her – she’s creative, thoughtful, and loving. Her journey from paralegal to teacher and devoted mom, and from loving wife to widow, and later, embarking on a new relationship, has taught her to move through her life with grace, resilience, and positivity.

Suzanne is a kind and gentle artist who believes that anyone can find a way to express themselves creatively. She has a unique fear, especially as she can trace her roots back to a sea captain ancestor who traveled to Jamestown in the 1600’s. I had a lovely conversation with Suzanne and hope she finds a way to ensure the Rockettes attend her send off.

With seven kids in his blended family and a full-time business to run Hugh should be stressed but he loves it all – work, family, and friends. He’s acquired his emotional intelligence along the way and has great advice for all of us – have no regrets but start sooner.

Suzie’s driving force is love – whether for her clients or animals in need. She may have walked a “stony path” to get where she is, but now that she’s here, she’s content and compassionate, even during lockdown.

Angel is a digital nomad and an international traveler who has mastered the art of teaching French even to the most linguistically challenged. But his superpower – in addition to a perfect quiche – is his ability to detect patterns both for himself and his students.

From the Navy to the Allentown Police Department, Luiz’s life is one of service. As a crime prevention officer and responsible for the Department’s social media presence, he connects with the community to foster trust. He sees his role as a guardian rather than a gladiator and wants police and public alike to treat each other with respect. And he still finds time to cycle and podcast! Listen and be impressed with the legacy of inspiration Luiz is creating.

Dr. Spencer explores the mind/body connection and its impact on everything we believe and do, bringing compassion to his perspective on even the simplest question.

Trish is the teacher you want for your fifth grader – compassionate, kind, and patient. And she’s also the mentor you want for your fitness goals since she focuses on healthy body image, not any notion of perfection. And if I’m lucky, my baklava will turn out as good as hers!

Though Frankie has not needed her back up plan, she doesn’t consider it wasted time. She’s a musician/singer/songwriter who cherishes her independence and knows how important it is to simply show up for your creativity – even if it finds you because a stranger has you ticked off.

After seeing Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich play in NYC and sweat through their suits, John found his passion. He played drums for decades, traveling the country with his band. And along the way, he developed Tempo Italiano – a radio show featuring Italian music and interviewing famous Italians from Connie Francis to Father Guido Sarducci. Somehow, he also found time for other ventures from race car driving to dog rescue -- and he has not a single regret.

From Pakistan to Pennsylvania, and from computer science to exercise science, Aesha has made a journey to find her best life. Coach Aesha’s skill and enthusiasm help her clients live a pain free life, and her positivity impacts everyone she meets (except for snakes.)

Carolyn recently moved back to her family’s farm to help her dad – which is perfectly consistent with her compassionate core. She is a geriatric nurse who brings humanity to healthcare, listening to her patients’ stories and connecting with their family. Her empathy and spirituality are reflected in how she has raised her children and her reluctance to do anything selfish – unless it’s a massage or one day, if she can get past the fear, jumping out of an airplane.

Michelle brings compassion and dedication to her role as Executive Director of a nonprofit that supports families of children with cancer – whether financially or emotionally. But equally impressive is Michelle’s mindful outlook, reminding us that worry doesn’t help what we can’t control. I was honored that she shared her wisdom – as well as her secret desire to tap her heels three times.

Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, Inc

He’s been a stage and screen actor for over 40 years, but Joe’s true superpower is his positivity. He learned the importance of community and connection from his firefighter dad, and his parents taught him to survive life with joy. Joe is most proud of holding on through the journey – a mantra I think we can all subscribe to.

Susan is a global nomad, and having lived around the world, she says that home is wherever you land. She found her calling reaching out to at-risk kids, challenging their belief system, teaching them life skills, and changing more than a few. She is willing to make bold moves because as Susan says, if you believe you can do it, then you can.

RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 1 — What Are You Most Afraid Of?

It’s hard to believe but it’s been 2 years since the birth of Curious Navel. And yes, it sounds odd, but I would call it a birth because there’s been growth and change since those first episodes. And like dealing with a child, I’m never quite sure what will happen – a guest might be reluctant or eager to share, they may be challenged to come up with an answer to something they never thought about, or they may simply want to tell a story. And I’m happy to welcome all of it. I’ve interviewed celebrities, artists, teachers, entrepreneurs, moms, dads, neighbors, and friends.

It’s not about how famous or successful someone is – and by the way, measuring either metric is a completely different conversation. It’s about listening to someone share their story, their feelings, their ideas, and seeing where the conversation takes us. It’s about finding out what we might have in common and what makes us different and unique. Whatever expectations I had for Curious Navel have been far exceeded by the delicious connections I have made with more than 100 people and counting. With each new group of guests, I find that the questions I want to ask change.

So while I look forward to the next phase of Curious Navel, I thought it might be fun to look back at how some of my guests have answered questions that I try to tease out in almost every episode. Have fun comparing your answer to one of my favorite questions -- what are you most afraid of? And I hope you join us when we launch our next episode!

Jane found her dream home by drawing on a map, and opted out of Cupcake Wars by embarking on a career in lobbying and government affairs. She’s a true best friend to all the women in her life, and is as resilient as anyone you will meet.

RECAP, REFLECT, and REVISE PART 2 — What Would You Do with an Extra 2 Hours?

It’s August, which is my birthday month and my favorite time of year to relax. So I’m still in the reflecting and revising phase of Curious Navel — which means another look back episode — with a different question this time.

Before we get to that I hope you listened to my 100th episode. It was a very special one for me since I interviewed my favorite person, my husband Billy. Don’t call him Bill – he thinks it sounds too formal – which gives you an idea of what a mensch he is. And if you don’t know what a mensch is, you will after you listen to the episode.

So here’s to looking back at how some of my guests have told me what they would do if given an extra two hours every day. Do any of their answers sound like something you would say?

Don’t forget to join me when I talk to another guest – it might be you!

Can someone really not be afraid of anything? Meet Carrie and listen to how she came to live fearlessly, take chances, and embrace possibility.

Carrie Beleno

Being fired was perhaps the best thing that ever happened to Riah because it taught her that there is success in failure, led her to becoming an entrepreneur, and gave her the motivation to write a book. She is not afraid to talk about her mistakes, and has learned the hard way that life without pain is life without joy.