Uncorking a Story Michael Carlon

"Being chosen doesn't mean being whole; it means navigating a journey to find yourself.” — Adoptee Lisa Ann
In this heartfelt episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Mike Carlon welcomes Lisa Ann, the host of the "Wandering Tree Podcast." Lisa Ann shares her deeply personal story as an adoptee, discussing the complexities of identity, family, and the search for her biological roots. From the revelation of her adoption before kindergarten to the challenging journey of finding her biological family, Lisa Ann's story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and advocacy for adoptee rights. Her insights shed light on the multifaceted experiences of adoptees and the importance of community, support, and changing the narrative around adoption.
Key Themes:


The Transformative Power of Adversity: Lisa Ann's journey through adoption and the search for her biological family reveals how challenging life events can lead to profound personal growth and self-discovery. Her story demonstrates the resilience required to navigate such adversities and find a sense of identity and belonging.


Reinventing Oneself After a Major Life Event: Lisa Ann's experiences highlight the ongoing process of self-reinvention that many adoptees undergo. Her story underscores the possibilities for personal transformation and growth, even when faced with challenging revelations about one's origins.


The Importance of Community and Support: Throughout her journey, Lisa Ann emphasizes the critical role of community and support networks for adoptees. She discusses how connecting with other adoptees and being part of supportive communities can provide strength and encouragement during difficult times.


Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Later Years: Lisa Ann's advocacy work and her role as a podcaster reveal how finding a sense of purpose can be transformative. Her dedication to helping other adoptees and changing the narrative around adoption highlights the fulfillment that comes from using personal experiences to inspire and support others.


Overcoming Societal Expectations and Stereotypes About Adoption: Lisa Ann challenges societal stereotypes and misconceptions about adoption, advocating for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of adoptees' experiences. Her story encourages listeners to rethink preconceived notions and embrace the diverse realities of adoption.


The Role of Mindset in Navigating Identity: Lisa Ann's positive and proactive mindset played a crucial role in her journey of self-discovery. Her story illustrates the importance of mental resilience and a determined outlook in overcoming the challenges of identity and belonging as an adoptee.


The Impact of Family Dynamics on Personal Growth: Lisa Ann's experiences shed light on the complexities of family dynamics in adoptive and biological families. Her story highlights how understanding and navigating these dynamics is essential for personal growth and forming meaningful connections.



Listen to the Wandering Tree Podcast: Apple Podcasts 
Connect with Lisa Ann
Website: https://wanderingtreeadoptee.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/wanderingtree_podcast_lisaann/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingtreeadoptee


Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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"The idea of found family and the hope that you have a pod of people out there who will accept you for who you are is central to my story." — Mary Carol Moore
In today’s episode, Author Mary Carol Moore discusses her journey from being a food journalist to an accomplished novelist, inspired by her mother's legacy as a World War II era pilot. She shares insights into her latest novel, "A Woman's Guide to Search and Rescue," and the themes of family, bravery, and second chances. This conversation offers a glimpse into the creative process and the personal experiences that shape an author's work.
Meet Mary Carol Moore
Mary Carroll Moore is the Amazon-bestselling and award-winning author of three novels and her writing has been featured on NPR and in the New York Times. She received her MFA from Goddard College and has taught throughout the US and abroad at various writing schools and universities since 1998. She joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about her latest novel, A Woman’s Guide to Search and Rescue.
Key Themes:


Legacy of a Pilot Mother: Mary's mother was a pilot in World War II, a legacy that inspired Mary to write about women pilots and explore her mother's mysterious past.


Transition from Food Journalism to Fiction: Mary transitioned from a successful career as a food journalist to fiction writing, driven by a desire for more fulfilling work.


Writing and Research: Mary took flying lessons and conducted extensive research to accurately portray the aviation world in her novels, blending personal experience with storytelling.


A Woman’s Guide to Search and Rescue: Mary’s latest novel focuses on two estranged sisters who are both pilots, exploring themes of family, abandonment, and reconciliation amidst thrilling plot twists.


Found Family: The central theme of the book is the idea of found family and the hope that people can find a supportive and accepting community outside their biological families.


Advice for Aspiring Authors: Mary emphasizes the importance of taking time with your writing, recognizing your tendencies, and finding balance to turn those tendencies into strengths.


Buy A Woman’s Guide to Search and Rescue.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bpq9kp
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798987531709

Connect with Mary
Website: https://www.marycarrollmoore.com/
Twitter: https://x.com/writeabook
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marycarrollmoore
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marycarrollmoore/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.


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"Poetry is a gift from the Divine, a voice from ancestors, expressing profound truths and deep emotions." - Lauren Martin
In today’s episode of Uncorking a Story we sit down with Lauren Martin, a psychotherapist, poet, and a devoted Ìyânífá. She shares her journey from discovering her poetic voice in sixth grade to compiling her latest collection, Night of the Hawk. Through a conversation that spans her experiences with shamanism, overcoming personal struggles, and the therapeutic power of writing, Lauren offers a unique perspective on life, creativity, and healing.
Key Themes:


Early Beginnings in Poetry: Lauren recalls her unexpected start in poetry during sixth grade, when a simple essay led her to discover her poetic talent.


Shamanic Journey: She discusses her lifelong spiritual experiences, from seeing ghosts as a child to her deep exploration of shamanism and its impact on her life and work.


Struggles and Recovery: Lauren opens up about her battles with substance abuse during her adolescence and how these challenges shaped her path as both a poet and a psychotherapist.


Night of the Hawk: Insights into her latest poetry collection, which was compiled during a lengthy recovery from a spinal injury, exploring themes of illness, family dynamics, and spiritual experiences.


Therapeutic Practice and Poetry: The intersection of her work as a psychotherapist and poet, emphasizing the role of storytelling and writing in healing and personal growth.


Women and Aging: A discussion on societal perceptions of aging women, the pressure to conform to beauty standards, and the importance of intellectual and creative contributions from women at all stages of life.


Living with Spiritual Gifts: How Lauren navigates her spiritual gifts in daily life, setting boundaries, and finding peace amidst the challenges.


Buy Night of the Hawk
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bqoZFe
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647426583

Connect with Lauren
Website: https://www.laurenmartin.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauren.martin.37201
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankyisastar

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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"We have a lot to learn from them. It's really about the survival of the human spirit." - Dr. Stephanie Covington
In this informative episode of Uncorking a Story, we dive into the life and expertise of Stephanie Covington, Ph.D. who shares wisdom gained through her work with incarcerated women and reveals how they support each other in the most challenging of environments.
Meet Stephanie Covington
Dr. Stephanie S. Covington is an internationally recognized pioneer in the fields of addiction, trauma, and gender-responsive care. For three decades she has created and facilitated trauma-informed programs and curricula for use in criminal–legal settings across the United States and globally. Educated at Columbia University and the Union Institute, Dr. Covington is co-director of the Institute for Relational Development and the Center for Gender & Justice in Del Mar, California. She joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about her life and book Hidden Healers: The Unexpected Ways Women in Prison Help Each Other Survive.

Key Themes:


Transformation through Trauma: Dr. Covington's approach to creating trauma-informed programs in prisons that catalyze healing and recovery.


Gender-Responsive Care: The unique needs of women in the criminal legal system and how current systems fail to address them.


The Power of Storytelling: Dr. Covington emphasizes the therapeutic power of sharing and listening to stories, which form the foundation of her work and writing.


Misconceptions of Prison Life: A discussion on the stark contrast between public perceptions of prison life and the realities faced by incarcerated women.


Community and Solidarity: How women in prison form supportive networks that mimic familial structures, providing mutual support and survival strategies.


Reform and Advocacy: Insights into how the public can engage with and influence criminal justice reform.


The Impact of Small Actions: Encouraging listeners to recognize the profound impact of seemingly small gestures of kindness and support towards incarcerated individuals.


Buy Hidden Healers: The Unexpected Ways Women in Prison Help Each Other Survive
Amazon: https://amzn.to/49PFDfL
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781394254392


Connect with Stephanie
Website: https://stephaniecovington.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniecovingtonofficial/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.


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“Be quick to forgive yourself. It's hard to do, but be quick to forgive people around you. We're going to disappoint ourselves, and people are going to disappoint us. Just forgive, get over it. Don’t let a mistake ruin a relationship—it's not worth it. The relationship is so much more.” — Link Forester
Join us in this powerful episode of Uncorking a Story with  Link Forester, an author whose life is a testament to finding joy and purpose through unexpected challenges. From early parenthood and career changes to personal tragedies, Link shares how these experiences have shaped his life and inspired his writing. Dive into an intimate conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and the courage to face life's curveballs.
Meet Link Forester
Link Forester possesses a rare blend of humility, faith, and a good sense of humor—all of which have enabled him to grow through the trials of becoming a parent much earlier than planned, a risky career change, and the tragic death of a son. After graduating from Auburn University, Link began his career in sales at IBM. Five years later he took a leap of faith into the financial services industry, where he continues to lead a thriving financial planning and wealth management business. He joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about his life and new book The Side Road: Finding Joy and Purpose Through the Twists and Turns of Life.
Key Themes:


Overcoming Adversity: Link discusses how unexpected challenges, such as becoming a parent in college and losing a child, taught him the strength of overcoming adversity. He shares insights on navigating these difficulties with grace and resilience.


The Power of Resilience: Resilience shines through as Link recounts his journey from a safe job at IBM to venturing into the precarious world of financial services, emphasizing the importance of tenacity and belief in one’s abilities in the face of potential failure.


The Art of Storytelling: As a natural storyteller, Link illuminates the conversation with engaging anecdotes from his life, showing how storytelling can captivate, educate, and connect us more deeply to our shared human experiences.


Faith and Coping: Faith plays a central role in how Link has coped with life’s curveballs. He speaks on the solace and strength he finds in his spiritual beliefs, which have guided him through his darkest times and helped him make sense of life’s inexplicable turns.


The Dynamics of Family and Relationships: Link delves into the dynamics of maintaining strong family bonds and relationships through various life stages, discussing the joys and challenges of raising children, supporting a partner, and staying connected with extended family.


Career Transitions and Risk-Taking: Link’s career trajectory from a stable corporate position to establishing a successful business in the volatile financial sector illustrates the risks and rewards of following one’s entrepreneurial spirit and adapting to new professional landscapes.


Buy The Side Road: Finding Joy and Purpose Through the Twists and Turns of Life
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3xB3jY7
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781631957925


Connect with Link
Website: https://linkforesterauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSideRoadBook/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irisyamashita/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#UncorkingAStory #LinkForester #LifeChallenges #Storytelling #Resilience #Forgiveness #InspirationalStories
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“Be your own fool. You’ve got to be a little bit crazy to believe your writing matters, and it does!”
Today, I chat with author Joe Di Prisco who shares the mosaic of his life, from a Brooklyn childhood shadowed by mob connections to his spirited pursuits in poetry and education. This episode delves into Joe's complex relationship with religion, his vibrant storytelling in both novels and poetry, and his undying passion for empowering young writers. You don’t want to miss it!
Meet Joe Di Prisco
Joseph Di Prisco is an acclaimed author of prize-winning poetry, bestselling memoirs, nonfiction books, and novels. He taught for many years and has served as chair of not-for-profits dedicated to the arts, theater, children’s mental health, and schools. He joined me on Uncorking a Story to discuss his life and latest collection of poetry entitled My Last Resume.
Key Topics


Origins of a Storyteller: Joe reflects on his upbringing in Brooklyn's Greenpoint, the influence of the Catholic church, and his early exposure to the arts which shaped his narrative skills.


“Family” Influences: Joe opens up about his father's mob connections leading to a sudden move to California to escape law enforcement which the stage for a life filled with stories worth telling.


Battles with Adversity: Joe candidly shares his struggles with substance abuse and personal challenges, highlighting a 20-year gap in his poetry writing. His journey through these hardships culminates in a resurgence in his literary pursuits and personal life.


Literary Journey: From teaching to writing, Joe discusses his wide-ranging career, including his triumphant return to the literary world.


Philosophy on Writing and Poetry: Joe criticizes the 'churchification' of writing and expresses his desire for poetry to remain impactful, raw, and genuine.


Contributions to Education and Literature: Joe talks about his ongoing work with at-risk youth, using literature as a tool for empowerment and social change, highlighted by his involvement with the Joyce Carol Oates Prize and various literary projects.


Buy My Last Resume
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Tk7z5w
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781644284186


Connect with Joe
Website: https://www.diprisco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joseph.diprisco.9
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JosephDiPrisco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdiprisco/


Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irisyamashita/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices