Joy of the Hang | A Wellness, Connection & Empowerment Podcast with Sharon Stevenson

Sharon Stevenson | Host of Joy of the Hang | Connection Advocate
  • 4.8 (22)
  • Relationships
  • Updated Weekly

Joy of the Hang | A Wellness, Connection & Empowerment Podcast with Sharon Stevenson  What if the best conversations could change your life? Joy of the Hang is a personal growth and wellness podcast about storytelling, authentic connection, and empowerment, hosted by Sharon Stevenson — a certified Health and Wellness Coach, speaker, and former bodybuilder.  Every episode explores how vulnerability and meaningful relationships shape your emotional wellbeing, mental health, spiritual health, and overall wellness. Sharon breaks down the eight pillars of health — with a special focus on the social and occupational wellness most of us overlook — and shares candid, real-life stories about resilience, reinvention, mindset, and living a balanced, intentional life.  If you're seeking authentic connection, emotional growth, self-improvement, and everyday inspiration, this is your sanctuary for wellness coaching and real-life wisdom. Whether you're navigating a season of change or simply craving deeper conversations, you'll leave each episode feeling seen, encouraged, and empowered.  New episodes release weekly — follow Joy of the Hang on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube so you never miss a conversation. https://joyofthehang.com/

  1. 5d ago ·  Video

    The Performed Self: Samuel Garza Bernstein on Hollywood, Identity & the Cost of Hiding

    Send us Fan Mail How much of who we are is authentic—and how much is a version of ourselves we learned to perform? Award-winning author and screenwriter Samuel Garza Bernstein has spent his career looking beneath the carefully constructed identities we present to the world. From the hidden emotional life of Hollywood legend Cesar Romero, to Roddy McDowall, the trusted keeper of Hollywood’s secrets, to Joan Crawford, who transformed herself from Lucille LeSueur into one of the most meticulously crafted personas in movie history, Samuel is fascinated by the human being behind the image. But this conversation isn’t really about old Hollywood. It’s about all of us. Samuel and Sharon explore identity, sexuality, survival, chosen family, grief, marriage, and the difference between being approved of and actually being known. Samuel also opens up about his own unconventional childhood, the survival skills that shaped him, and how his work—including the six-time Emmy-winning series After Forever—uses storytelling to uncover the emotional truths we often work hardest to hide. Because you don’t have to be a movie star to create a public version of yourself. We perform at work. In relationships. In families. On social media. Sometimes the person everyone else sees is the person we built simply to survive. And eventually, holding the pose gets exhausting. This episode of Joy of the Hang asks a powerful question: What happens when we stop performing long enough to let ourselves be truly known? https://samuelgarzabernstein.com/ Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  2. Sep 23 ·  Video

    Healthy Relationships Take Practice: Dr. Rami Geffner on Communication, Connection & Trust

    Send us Fan Mail What if we treated our relationships with the same intention we give our physical health? Dr. Rami Geffner believes healthy relationships aren’t built on chemistry alone. They’re built through daily practices—how we communicate, how we listen, how we repair after conflict, and how we continue choosing connection when life gets complicated. With more than 20 years of experience studying and working with relationships, Dr. Geffner joins Sharon for a conversation about why even strong relationships can become disconnected—and what we can actually do about it. They explore communication breakdowns, emotional distance, rebuilding trust, the small habits that quietly strengthen or weaken a relationship, and why waiting until something is seriously wrong may be one of the biggest mistakes couples make. Because relationships affect far more than our romantic lives. They influence our health, our happiness, our families, and our sense of belonging. And maybe the healthiest relationships aren’t the ones without problems. They’re the ones where people keep learning how to find their way back to each other. In this episode: • Why healthy relationships require ongoing practice • The habits that create—or erode—connection • What happens when couples stop communicating effectively • How to approach conflict without destroying trust • Rebuilding connection after emotional distance • Why relationship health is an essential part of overall wellness • Practical ways to strengthen the relationships that matter most Joy of the Hang™ — The Social Wellness Movement https://ramigeffner.com/ Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  3. Sep 16 ·  Video

    Livin' It: A Bad Kid From Philly, 50 Years Later | Michael Perzel & Rick Mowat

    Send us Fan Mail Michael Perzel spent thirty-one years in insurance, twenty-six of them running his own brokerage out of Northeast Philadelphia. He retired comfortably at sixty-six with everything you're supposed to want. And then he did the thing almost nobody does — he turned around and told the truth about where he came from. Between 1967 and 1975, Michael was a kid in the Abbotsford projects and then on Bleigh Avenue in Mayfair, living a life that reads like fiction: drugs, gang violence, motorcycle clubs, pharmacy burglaries, arrests that made the local papers, a friend who overdosed in his arms. Some of it is funny. Some of it isn't. All of it is true. It became Livin' It — covered by NBC 10 Philadelphia, South Philly Review, and Boomer Magazine, and now an audiobook. It exists because of Rick Mowat. A Juilliard-trained writer and director who's built a career shaping true crime into story, Rick is also Michael's friend — and the man who listened to one of these stories told bar-stool style and said four words that changed the back half of a life: we've got a book here. In this episode: what reinvention actually costs when it comes late, which relationships shift and which ones hold, how you rebuild your social and occupational life from scratch in your sixties, and why almost nobody transforms alone. Michael tells it. Rick explains what he heard that Michael couldn't. In this episode: — Mayfair in 1971, and what "fearless" really was — The moment prison stopped being an abstraction — Why a kid who robbed pharmacies ended up managing other people's risk — What Rick asked that Michael didn't want to answer — The difference between stability and being fully alive — Plus, The Final Hang Livin' It is available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Link below. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG1M9FRN?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3D6AHEJ82GEF8SEKW0RC&bestFormat=true Joy of the Hang™ is hosted by Sharon Stevenson — conversations about community, connection, and the relationships that make a life worth living. https://www.mjpmediagroupllc.com/livin-it Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  4. Sep 13 ·  Video

    Episode 100: Life Lessons, Motherhood & Reinvention — My Daughter Interviews Me

    Send us Fan Mail What have 100 meaningful conversations taught me about life, relationships, resilience, motherhood and reinvention? For the 100th episode of Joy of the Hang, we’re turning the tables. My daughter, Haley, takes over the microphone — and this time, I’m answering the questions. We talk about the life lessons I’ve learned (some the hard way), what motherhood has taught me, the moments that have shaped who I am, and what I know now that I wish I had understood years ago. Haley also asks me about the nearly 100 people I’ve interviewed on Joy of the Hang: the conversations I’ll never forget, the guests who surprised me, the stories that changed my perspective, and the lessons that have stayed with me long after the microphones were turned off. But this episode is about more than looking back. We talk about getting older without becoming smaller. Starting over. Taking risks. Navigating relationships. Finding purpose. Learning when to hold on — and when to let go. And what it means to keep reinventing yourself as life changes around you. There are some laughs, some vulnerable moments, and a few questions I definitely wasn't prepared for. After 100 episodes spent asking other people about their lives, Haley gave me the chance to reflect on mine. And maybe that's the biggest lesson of all: we're never finished becoming who we're meant to be. In this episode: • Life lessons I wish I'd learned earlier • Motherhood and what my children have taught me • Reinvention and starting over at any age • Resilience through life's unexpected chapters • My most memorable Joy of the Hang conversations • Relationships, purpose and personal growth • What I've learned from interviewing nearly 100 remarkable people • What's next for me — and for Joy of the Hang Episode 100 of Joy of the Hang with Sharon Stevenson. Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  5. Sep 2 ·  Video

    Rewire, Don’t Retire: Scott Stevenson on Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Building What’s Next

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when you reach the point in life when you could slow down—but you’re nowhere near finished? In this special episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with someone she knows better than almost anyone: her husband, entrepreneur Scott Stevenson. Scott has spent his career building businesses, leading teams, taking risks, and turning ideas into reality. Now, rather than embracing the traditional idea of retirement, he’s doing what he calls rewiring—redirecting decades of experience, ambition, and relationships into something entirely new. That next chapter is Sarasota Motor Club, a private automotive community built around far more than cars. Scott shares the vision behind the club, what it takes to bring an ambitious concept from idea to reality, and the leadership lessons he’s learned along the way. Sharon and Scott also get candid about entrepreneurship: making decisions when there is no playbook, handling setbacks, knowing when to trust your instincts, and why successful people still need something meaningful to build toward. This conversation isn’t really about retirement. It’s about relevance, purpose, and refusing to let age determine when your most interesting work is behind you. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why Scott believes in rewiring instead of retiringThe leadership principles that have shaped his careerWhat decades of entrepreneurship have taught him about risk and resilienceThe story and vision behind Sarasota Motor ClubWhy community and relationships matter more as we get older—not lessWhat it means to build something because you’re passionate about it, not because you have toWhy your next chapter may be more exciting than the one you just finishedIf you’ve ever wondered, “What am I going to do with the next 20 years?”—this conversation may change the question entirely. Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  6. Aug 26 ·  Video

    The Gym Cures Loneliness Better Than It Builds Muscle — David Rafuse

    Send us Fan Mail What if the greatest benefit of joining a gym has nothing to do with your body? In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with David Rafuse, founder of Blended Athletics and creator of Train With Us, to explore the powerful connection between fitness, mental health, community, and belonging. While most people think of exercise as a way to improve physical health, David has witnessed something even more profound: people walking through the gym doors looking for fitness and leaving with confidence, friendships, accountability, and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, Sharon and David discuss why loneliness has become one of the greatest public health challenges of our time, how meaningful relationships are built through consistency rather than convenience, and why showing up—whether in the gym or in life—is often the hardest and most important step. If you've ever struggled to find your people, stay motivated, or build healthy habits that last, this conversation will remind you that real transformation rarely happens alone. In This Episode: Why community is essential for long-term health and wellnessHow fitness creates confidence beyond the gymThe surprising connection between exercise and mental healthWhy loneliness is affecting people of every ageThe role of accountability in creating lasting habitsHow consistency builds trust and meaningful relationshipsWhat it really means to belongWhether you're looking to improve your health, strengthen your relationships, or simply feel more connected, this episode offers practical wisdom and an inspiring reminder that we are stronger together. https://blendedathletics.com/ 🎧 Listen now and discover why finding your community may be the healthiest decision you ever make. Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  7. Aug 19 ·  Video

    97. Human Trafficking Is Closer Than You Think: Monica Morton on the Myths, Warning Signs & Saving Lives

    Send us Fan Mail Human trafficking isn't something that only happens in foreign countries or in Hollywood movies. It's happening in neighborhoods across America, often hiding in plain sight. In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Monica Morton, one of the nation's leading experts on human trafficking, to uncover the truth behind one of the world's fastest-growing criminal enterprises. Drawing from decades of investigative work and survivor advocacy, Monica explains how traffickers groom victims, who is most at risk, and why so many misconceptions prevent people from recognizing the warning signs. She also shares what every parent, grandparent, educator, and community member should know to help protect those they love. This conversation is eye-opening, emotional, and ultimately hopeful. If you've ever believed, "It could never happen here," this episode may change your perspective forever. In this episode, you'll learn: • The biggest myths about human trafficking • Who is most vulnerable—and why • How traffickers use social media to groom victims • Warning signs every family should recognize • What to do (and what not to do) if you suspect someone is being trafficked • How awareness can save lives This isn't just another interview. It's information that could one day protect someone you love. If this episode impacted you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Awareness is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against human trafficking. Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

  8. Aug 12 ·  Video

    96. Finding Your Voice: Jazz Singer Barbara King on Music, Reinvention, and the Power of Following Your Dreams

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when talent, timing, and purpose finally align? In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with acclaimed jazz vocalist Barbara King to discuss her remarkable journey from singing in the choir at college to sharing the stage with legendary artists like Patti LaBelle, Kirk Franklin, and Kirk Whalum. Barbara opens up about the courage it takes to pursue a creative calling, the lessons she's learned from decades in music, and why it's never too late to step fully into your purpose. We also discuss her acclaimed debut album, Perfect Timing, and how faith, perseverance, and authenticity have shaped her journey. Whether you're a lover of jazz, an aspiring artist, or someone contemplating a new chapter in life, Barbara's story is a powerful reminder that our dreams don't have expiration dates. In This Episode, We Discuss:  Barbara's journey into jazz and inspirational music  The meaning behind her album Perfect Timing Performing alongside legendary musicians  How creativity and faith fuel resilience  Reinvention and finding purpose later in life  Why it's never too late to follow your dreams  The role music plays in connection and healing Connect with Barbara King: https://www.barbarakingjazz.com Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that inspire connection, courage, and living with purpose. #JoyOfTheHang #BarbaraKing #JazzSinger #JazzMusic #InspirationalMusic #WomenInMusic #Reinvention #MusicAndHealing #Purpose #FollowingYourDreams Support the show  Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang .  If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Joy of the Hang | A Wellness, Connection & Empowerment Podcast with Sharon Stevenson  What if the best conversations could change your life? Joy of the Hang is a personal growth and wellness podcast about storytelling, authentic connection, and empowerment, hosted by Sharon Stevenson — a certified Health and Wellness Coach, speaker, and former bodybuilder.  Every episode explores how vulnerability and meaningful relationships shape your emotional wellbeing, mental health, spiritual health, and overall wellness. Sharon breaks down the eight pillars of health — with a special focus on the social and occupational wellness most of us overlook — and shares candid, real-life stories about resilience, reinvention, mindset, and living a balanced, intentional life.  If you're seeking authentic connection, emotional growth, self-improvement, and everyday inspiration, this is your sanctuary for wellness coaching and real-life wisdom. Whether you're navigating a season of change or simply craving deeper conversations, you'll leave each episode feeling seen, encouraged, and empowered.  New episodes release weekly — follow Joy of the Hang on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube so you never miss a conversation. https://joyofthehang.com/

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