Life's Checkmark: Life Stories for Personal Growth and Self-Improvement

Jon Emery

Life's Checkmark shares inspirational life stories of personal growth, resilience, and entrepreneurial grit hosted by Jon Emery. Each episode features real people overcoming challenges, building something meaningful, or working to become their best selves. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a personal development junkie, or someone seeking motivation to grow, this podcast is for you. The mission is for everyone to know they are not alone and to inspire and encourage others to keep moving forward, no matter what they are going through. Know that someone else has been there, and you can use this podcast as a guide. We navigate in this life together, not alone. Each episode is designed to help you build confidence, overcome setbacks, and grow with purpose. Questions you will find answers to on this podcast are: "How do I change my life after a major setback?" "How do I change my life?" "How can I overcome my situation?" "What small steps can I take today to start?" "Who can support or guide me through this change?" "What limiting beliefs or habits are holding me back?" Excited to have your life be yours and grow with Jon Emery and his guests.

  1. 17. FEB.

    Faith and Hope After Tragedy: Carrie Eaton's Story of Loss and Recovery

    Faith and Hope After Tragedy: Carrie Eaton's Story of Loss and Recovery EP | 189 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Carrie Eaton, who opens up about her journey through profound loss, grief, and the power of faith. Carrie shares how caring for her mom, writing two books, and trusting God's plan brought her out of darkness and into a place of hope. We talk about family struggles, mental health, and what it means to keep moving forward even when life throws you the hardest curveballs. This conversation is about finding strength, building faith, and helping others who are facing tragedy. If you've walked a tough path or just need some encouragement, you'll find so much value in Carrie's story; it's a call to action for listeners to share their own journeys. Your story matters; join the conversation and let us know how you've grown and healed. Key Takeaways: Trust builds resilience Faith brings hope during loss Gratitude changes perspective Everyone grieves differently Helping others grows healing Connect with Carrie Eaton: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chvycwgrl4 Purchase Book: Walking in the Fullness of Joy After Tragedy https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/walking-in-the-fullness-of-joy-after-tragedy-carrie-eaton/1149130882  Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub    Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    40 Min.
  2. 10. FEB.

    Purpose Through Connection: The Power Of Community With Jon Emery

    Purpose Through Connection:  The Power Of Community With Jon Emery In this episode, I open up about feeling alone, reaching out for help, and how joining communities, from men's groups to podcasting networks, helped me grow into who I am today. I share real moments of hitting rock bottom, the breakthroughs I had connecting with others, and how stepping outside my comfort zone changed everything. You'll hear about building Life's Checkmark, ranking top 20, and how every listener (that means you!) is part of this movement. If you're ready to make a change, you're not alone. This episode is for anyone wanting clarity, hope, and a fresh start. Key Takeaways: How reaching out can turn things around Faith and timing guide your journey Community creates lasting impact Getting outside your comfort zone pays off Every story (including yours) matters Connect with Me (Jon Emery): Website: https://www.lifescheckmark.com Email:  lifescheckmark@gmail.com Want to be a guest or connect directly? Email me through my site or DM me on social! Podcasters and Aspiring Podcasters.  Check out Podcaster's Hub https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7   Share Your Journey! I want to hear your story! Every listener has faced their own highs and lows. Leave a comment, send a message, or reach out to me with your own life journey, your checkmarks matter. Let's inspire each other to keep moving forward. lifescheckmark@gmail.com

    21 Min.
  3. 3. FEB.

    Are You In A Toxic Relationship? Navigate Exiting A Toxic Relationship with Rania The Rising Coach

    Are You In A Toxic Relationship? Navigate Exiting A Toxic Relationship with Rania EP | 187 In this heartfelt episode of Life's Checkmark, I talk with Rania, a resilient relationship coach and survivor from Toronto who gets real about her upbringing, breaking cultural molds, and facing toxic relationships head-on. Together, we get honest about recognizing signs of conditional love, finding the courage to break unhealthy patterns, and the everyday process of healing and self-love. Whether you're seeking support, feeling stuck, or looking for hope after toxic relationships, this episode proves that you're never alone in your journey. Tune in for true stories, actionable insights, and a reminder that you can always rewrite your story. 5 Amazing Key Takeaways: Spot the signs of conditional vs. unconditional love How past patterns show up in new relationships Why self-love is essential, not selfish Steps to safely leave a toxic relationship Strategies for ongoing healing and growth Connect with Rania: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r2rcoaching/ Podcast Website: https://healingtrain.ca/ Email: guest@healingtrain.ca Join a Podcaster Community, Podcaster's Hub Listen to Life's Checkmark Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    41 Min.
  4. 27. JAN.

    Balancing Business and Relationships: Daniela Roman Shares Her Story of Food, Family, and Resilience

    Balancing Business and Relationships: Daniela Roman Shares Her Story of Food, Family, and Resilience EP | 186 In this inspiring episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Daniela Roman, a powerhouse in the kitchen, entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Daniela's Delicious Delights. Daniela opens up about growing up in a traditional Italian family, launching her own catering business, and supporting her husband Emilio through both publishing and life. Her story is filled with lessons learned from self-taught hard work, family loyalty, navigating business with a spouse, and knowing when to ask for help. We talk about struggles, wins, and how keeping the family bond alive over a meal can shape your whole outlook. Daniela's honest sharing is a reminder that our stories matter. I invite YOU to share your journey—your lessons could help someone else on their path! Key Takeaways: Why asking for help matters How to discover and know your worth Making the kitchen fun & stress-free Balancing business and family relationships The importance of giving more than you get Connect with Daniela Roman: Website: https://www.danielasdeliciousdelights.com Email: info@danielasdeliciousdelights.com Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast: https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714/about Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    36 Min.
  5. 20. JAN.

    Battling Thyroid Cancer, Anxiety and Desperately Searching For Joy with Courtney Hancock

    Battling Thyroid Cancer, Anxiety and Desperately Searching For Joy with Courtney Hancock EP | 185 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Courtney Hancock—nurse, mom of four, podcast host, and author of "My Diamond Within." We talk about balancing motherhood, health battles, and building something meaningful even when life feels overwhelming. Courtney opens up about battling thyroid cancer, anxiety, and feeling stuck, but she also reveals how she kept moving forward, why small moments matter, and how her book is inspiring others to find hope and joy in their struggles. If you've ever felt weighed down or needed encouragement, Courtney's story will remind you that you're not alone and you can write your own comeback. 5 Amazing Key Takeaways: Simple joys help us get through tough times Everyone's journey with struggle is different Small steps and self-kindness matter You can find purpose, even in hard moments Your story can help someone else Connect with Courtney Hancock: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyrhancock/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/courtney.hancock.790 Amazon: My Diamond Within Book https://a.co/d/7O2LxL6 Listen to The Diamond Within Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/25Nj5fozP6LwtFDZuHZHRW?si=8979283c49a94f6c YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtneyrhancock Podcasters and Aspiring Podcasters Check Out Podcaster's Hub https://www.skool.com/lifes-checkmark-1714 Listen to Life's Checkmark Podcast: https://podfollow.com/lifescheckmark

    35 Min.
  6. 13. JAN.

    Finding Strength in Grief: The Power of Asking How Over Why to Heal and Thrive with Debbie Simmons

    Finding Strength in Grief: The Power of Asking How Over Why to Heal and Thrive with Debbie Simmons EP | 184 It's Jon Emery, and in this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Debbie Simmons for a raw, uplifting conversation about how life's hardest moments can spark powerful change. Debbie shares her incredible story of overcoming heartbreak, building resilience after losing her quadruplets, adopting nine children, and founding a thriving ministry. Her journey is all about asking the right questions, daring to dream again, and finding true meaning beyond worldly success. We talk about faith, family, leadership, and how every setback can be a setup for significance. Whether you're facing your own challenges or looking to make a bigger impact, Debbie's wisdom will inspire you to pursue your calling with purpose and courage. Key Takeaways: Moving from success to significance Turning loss into hope for others The power of asking "how" over "why" Learning to lead with impact Staying committed through life's challenges Connect with Debbie Simmons: Website: https://www.thedebbysimmons.com Free Book: https://www.theheartoflegacy.com    Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    41 Min.
  7. 6. JAN.

    Your 2026 Goals Depends On This

    Your 2026 Goals Depends On This In this solo episode of Life's Checkmark, I reflect on my personal journey of growth, faith, and vision as we kick off a new year. Inspired by stories in Genesis and my own experience launching the Life's Check Mark project podcast, book, and community, I challenge you to look up, think big, and imagine your own stars in the sky. Everyone's path is unique, and our stories can reach and inspire so many beyond what we can see. I encourage you to reflect on your vision for 2026 and take those first steps, no matter where you are. Let's create something bigger than ourselves and remind each other: you're never alone in your journey. Key Takeaways: Why your vision should be as big as the stars The power of small actions over time Importance of faith and persistence How sharing your journey inspires others You're truly not alone on this path Connect with Jon Emery:  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.emery.167  Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and Join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    17 Min.
  8. 30.12.2025

    Surviving Stroke to Inspiring Others: Stacie Jones's Journey of Hope and Purpose

    Surviving Stroke to Inspiring Others: Stacie Jones's Journey of Hope and Purpose EP | 182 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Stacie N Jones, a resilient travel agency owner whose life took a major turn after a stroke in 2022. Stacie shares her inspiring story of pushing through the challenges, her journey from corporate life to living her childhood dream, and how she helps families make lasting memories through travel. We talk about the power of gratitude, forgiveness, and patience, even when life feels overwhelming. Stacie's story is a reminder that life can reset our direction and that it's never too late to pursue what makes us feel alive. Tune in for the motivation to keep going no matter what you're facing.   Key Takeaways: Finding purpose after adversity The value of family travel and memories Travel can be more affordable than you think Embracing patience and gratitude Staying connected despite challenges   Connect with Stacie N Jones:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abj.travelagency/  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fromdaydreamstodestinations  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abjtravelagency/    Ready to start your podcast? Grab my free Podcast Worksheet now and take the first step toward your dream podcast https://www.lifescheckmark.com/freeresource    Ready to elevate your podcasting game? Whether you're a podcaster, aspiring podcaster, or podcast guest enthusiast, the Podcaster's Hub is your go-to community! Click on the link to learn about all of the perks and join! ⁠⁠https://www.lifescheckmark.com/podcastershub   Life's Checkmark Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifes-checkmark-real-journeys-inspiration-motivation/id1655532499  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RzjiymntY8HvP42EAcdjz?si=a7ccc512bd264ef7

    37 Min.

Info

Life's Checkmark shares inspirational life stories of personal growth, resilience, and entrepreneurial grit hosted by Jon Emery. Each episode features real people overcoming challenges, building something meaningful, or working to become their best selves. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a personal development junkie, or someone seeking motivation to grow, this podcast is for you. The mission is for everyone to know they are not alone and to inspire and encourage others to keep moving forward, no matter what they are going through. Know that someone else has been there, and you can use this podcast as a guide. We navigate in this life together, not alone. Each episode is designed to help you build confidence, overcome setbacks, and grow with purpose. Questions you will find answers to on this podcast are: "How do I change my life after a major setback?" "How do I change my life?" "How can I overcome my situation?" "What small steps can I take today to start?" "Who can support or guide me through this change?" "What limiting beliefs or habits are holding me back?" Excited to have your life be yours and grow with Jon Emery and his guests.