Let’s Talk About Love Stories from Everywhere

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Stories from Everywhere is a weekly, unscripted journey into the lives, ideas, and adventures of people from all walks of life. Hosted by award-winning author and journalist Jill L. Ferguson, each episode features candid, heart-centered conversations with guests from around the globe—artists, authors, entrepreneurs, students, elders, innovators, and dreamers—sharing the stories that shaped them. Produced by Let’s Talk About Love SPC, the show celebrates the universal threads that connect us, while honoring the unique voices that make our world endlessly fascinating. Come for the stories, stay for the connection.

  1. 2d ago ·  Video

    Ep. 67: Life Is a Grand Adventure: Tim Christiansen on Family, Faith, Entrepreneurship, and Seeing the World Differently

    What happens when adventure isn’t something you take a vacation to find, but a way you learn to live? In Episode 67 of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with entrepreneur, author, marketer, traveler, mountaineer, husband, and father Tim Christiansen for a conversation about what can happen when we deliberately step beyond the familiar. For Tim, that started early. Raised in an entrepreneurial family where turning 16 meant starting a business, Tim took a slightly different route: he decided he wanted to write a book. The result was Even If Your Toes Turn Purple, co-authored with his father, Rich Christiansen, when Tim was still a teenager. Today, he is the founder of digital marketing agency Adventure Yeti—a company he launched while attending Southern Utah University during the COVID era. Southern Utah University later recognized Tim and Adventure Yeti as the $10,000 winner of its 2024 S4 Competition. But entrepreneurship is only part of Tim’s story. He grew up in a family that believed in rites of passage, difficult experiences, service, travel, and intentionally exposing children to a world much larger than their own. At 10, Tim traveled to Nepal for the wedding of the Nepalese woman he considers his older sister and stood in the Everest region—an experience that profoundly altered the way he viewed other people and cultures. He still remembers watching a Sherpa guide kick rocks from the trail simply so the next traveler wouldn’t stumble. At 14, Tim climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with members of his family, learning firsthand that some of the hardest challenges are as mental as they are physical. Later, at 18, he left home for two years to serve as a missionary in Argentina, learning Spanish, living among people whose lives looked very different from his own, and discovering that service can take many forms—from helping build houses to helping someone change the direction of his life. Now 27 and raising a young daughter of his own, Tim is thinking about which family traditions he wants to preserve, which ones he wants to adapt, and how to give the next generation the same sense of curiosity, resilience, responsibility, and connection that shaped him. This wide-ranging conversation explores entrepreneurship, parenting, faith, travel, cultural differences, hard things, family legacy, service, and why the labels we put on ourselves and others can keep us from recognizing how much we share. Because beneath different countries, religions, traditions, languages, and circumstances is the same human experience. As Tim puts it, life is a grand adventure. Meet people. Dance. Smile broadly. And live it fully.

  2. Aug 11 ·  Video

    Ep. 66: The Legacy We Leave: Richard V. Battle on History, Honor, and the People Who Built Tomorrow

    What if the greatest legacy you'll ever leave isn't your career, your bank account, or even your name, but a single idea that quietly changes someone else's life? In this thoughtful episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and leadership expert Richard V. Battle to explore the stories that shape nations—and the quieter stories that shape families. Best known for his AmeriCANS Who Made America series, Richard shares why he believes history is less about famous names and more about ordinary people who chose courage, responsibility, and action when it mattered most. Together, Jill and Richard move far beyond dates and historical facts into a conversation about legacy, gratitude, honor, and purpose. They discuss forgotten figures like Mary Katherine Goddard, whose courageous decision to print her own name on the Declaration of Independence carried enormous personal risk, and the remarkable influence of Sam Houston's mother, whose single word—honor—helped shape the character of one of Texas' most influential leaders. But some of the most moving moments come from Richard's own life. He shares the heartbreaking loss of his infant son, how writing through grief became an unexpected source of healing, and the extraordinary encounter more than twenty years later with a grieving father who heard one radio interview at exactly the moment he needed hope. It's a story that reminds us we rarely know when our words, our kindness, or even our pain may become someone else's lifeline. Jill and Richard also explore questions that feel especially relevant today: • What does honor really mean in modern life? • Are we teaching history—or merely memorizing facts? • Why do so many people lose their sense of purpose after retirement? • How can grandparents, parents, teachers, and mentors shape lives they'll never live long enough to see? • And what responsibility do we have to future generations? Whether you're fascinated by history, passionate about leadership, navigating loss, or simply wondering what kind of difference one ordinary person can make, this conversation is ultimately about the ripple effects of a life well lived. As Richard reminds us, quoting Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: "A mind stretched by a new idea cannot return to its previous dimension." By the end of this episode, yours just might be one of them.

  3. Aug 11 ·  Video

    Episode 66: The Legacy We Leave: Richard V. Battle on History, Honor, and the People Who Built Tomorrow

    What if the greatest legacy you'll ever leave isn't your career, your bank account, or even your name, but a single idea that quietly changes someone else's life? In this thoughtful episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and leadership expert Richard V. Battle to explore the stories that shape nations—and the quieter stories that shape families. Best known for his AmeriCANS Who Made America series, Battle shares why he believes history is less about famous names and more about ordinary people who chose courage, responsibility, and action when it mattered most. Together, Jill and Richard move far beyond dates and historical facts into a conversation about legacy, gratitude, honor, and purpose. They discuss forgotten figures like Mary Katherine Goddard, whose courageous decision to print her own name on the Declaration of Independence carried enormous personal risk, and the remarkable influence of Sam Houston's mother, whose single word—honor—helped shape the character of one of Texas' most influential leaders. But some of the most moving moments come from Richard's own life. He shares the heartbreaking loss of his infant son, how writing through grief became an unexpected source of healing, and the extraordinary encounter more than twenty years later with a grieving father who heard one radio interview at exactly the moment he needed hope. It's a story that reminds us we rarely know when our words, our kindness, or even our pain may become someone else's lifeline. Jill and Richard also explore questions that feel especially relevant today: What does honor really mean in modern life? Are we teaching history—or merely memorizing facts? Why do so many people lose their sense of purpose after retirement? How can grandparents, parents, teachers, and mentors shape lives they'll never live long enough to see? And what responsibility do we have to future generations? Whether you're fascinated by history, passionate about leadership, navigating loss, or simply wondering what kind of difference one ordinary person can make, this conversation is ultimately about the ripple effects of a life well lived. As Richard reminds us, quoting Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: "A mind stretched by a new idea cannot return to its previous dimension." By the end of this episode, yours just might be one of them.

  4. Aug 4 ·  Video

    Episode 65: From Tech Anxiety to Human Potential: Wrangling Your Inner Squirrel with Stacy Braiuca

    Technology is changing faster than ever, but what if the biggest obstacle isn't artificial intelligence or the latest app? What if it's the stories we've been telling ourselves all along? In this thought-provoking episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with licensed clinical social worker, entrepreneur, and self-described "Squirrel Wrangler" Stacy Braiuca to explore the fascinating intersection of technology, psychology, neuroscience, and human behavior. After surviving an abusive relationship that changed the course of her life, Stacy traded her dream of becoming a computer engineer for a career in social work. Decades later, those two seemingly separate paths came together in an unexpected way. Today, she helps people overcome "techxiety"—the anxiety that technology can create—by blending psychology, coaching, AI, and practical tools that help people embrace change rather than fear it. Their conversation explores: Why technology isn't what we're really afraid of The surprising connection between computer programming and the human mind How childhood programming shapes our adult reactions Why AI is a tool, not something to fear The power of productivity, purpose, and "wrangling your squirrels" How curiosity and adaptability can transform both your work and your life Whether you're excited about artificial intelligence, overwhelmed by it, or simply curious about how humans adapt to change, this conversation offers thoughtful insights, practical wisdom, and plenty of memorable moments. Sometimes the biggest upgrade isn't your technology, it's your mindset.

  5. Jul 28 ·  Video

    Episode 64: Leave Your Bubble: How Travel, Curiosity, and Conversation Can Change Your Life

    Some journeys change your passport. Others change the way you see humanity. In this thought-provoking episode of Stories from Everywhere, host Jill L. Ferguson sits down with traveler, Fulbright Scholar, and Silicon Valley professional Wesley Warshawer to explore what happens when we intentionally step outside the lives we've always known. Wesley shares how a scholarship to study in India at just 19 years old shattered his assumptions about the world and sparked a lifelong pursuit of understanding through travel. From living in South Korea as a Fulbright Scholar to working remotely while spending 18 months exploring America's rural communities—and later living throughout Latin America and Africa—he discovered that the greatest lessons weren't about geography. They were about people. Together, Jill and Wesley discuss the hidden "bubbles" we all live inside, how cultural differences challenge our assumptions, why empathy grows when we're the outsider, and how meaningful conversations can bridge divides that headlines often deepen. They also explore the surprising connections between business, purpose, curiosity, and human kindness, arguing that growth comes not from staying comfortable but from embracing the unfamiliar. Whether you've traveled the world or rarely leave your hometown, this conversation offers an invitation to see your neighbors and yourself with fresh eyes. In this episode, you'll discover: How one semester in India transformed Wesley's life and career. What a Fulbright Scholarship really is and why more people should apply. Why travel teaches us as much about ourselves as it does about other cultures. The surprising lessons Wesley learned while living throughout conservative communities in the United States. How stepping outside your comfort zone creates the conditions for personal growth. Why curiosity is a stronger bridge than judgment. Practical ways to "leave your bubble" even if you never board an airplane. If you've ever wondered how to become more open-minded, more empathetic, and more connected in an increasingly divided world, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that the next great lesson may be just beyond the edge of your comfort zone.

  6. Jul 21 ·  Video

    When Music Tames the Monster: Rick London on Reinvention, Creativity, & Writing The Dancing Wolfeman

    Every great story begins with a question. For Richard Coto—better known by his pen name, Rick London—that question was: What if a werewolf didn't want to be a monster? In this engaging episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with first-time novelist Rick London to explore the unexpected path that led him from a career in hospitality, limousine driving, and hospital surgery scheduling to publishing his debut novel, The Dancing Wolfeman. Inspired by a lonely nighttime drive through the California countryside decades ago, Rick transformed a fleeting idea into a heartfelt supernatural story where music, compassion, and humanity prove stronger than violence. Their conversation ranges far beyond werewolves. Rick shares why he chose a pen name, how growing up surrounded by music shaped both his life and his writing, and why his unconventional protagonist is a high school music teacher whose love of music literally saves lives. Jill and Rick also discuss California's wine country, memorable careers, the realities of self-publishing, avoiding scams in today's publishing industry, the changing landscape of book marketing in the age of AI, and the persistence it takes to keep creating long after the excitement of publication fades. Whether you're an aspiring author, a lifelong reader, a fan of supernatural fiction, or simply someone fascinated by the creative process, this conversation is an honest, encouraging look at following an idea that refuses to let go and having the courage to bring it to life. Sometimes the most memorable monsters aren't the ones who lose their humanity—they're the ones determined to keep it.

  7. Jul 21 ·  Video

    Episode 63: When Music Tames the Monster: Rick London on Reinvention, Creativity, and Writing The Dancing Wolfeman

    Every great story begins with a question. For Richard Coto—better known by his pen name, Rick London—that question was: What if a werewolf didn't want to be a monster? In this engaging episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with first-time novelist Rick London to explore the unexpected path that led him from a career in hospitality, limousine driving, and hospital surgery scheduling to publishing his debut novel, The Dancing Wolfeman. Inspired by a lonely nighttime drive through the California countryside decades ago, Rick transformed a fleeting idea into a heartfelt supernatural story where music, compassion, and humanity prove stronger than violence. Their conversation ranges far beyond werewolves. Rick shares why he chose a pen name, how growing up surrounded by music shaped both his life and his writing, and why his unconventional protagonist is a high school music teacher whose love of music literally saves lives. Jill and Rick also discuss California's wine country, memorable careers, the realities of self-publishing, avoiding scams in today's publishing industry, the changing landscape of book marketing in the age of AI, and the persistence it takes to keep creating long after the excitement of publication fades. Whether you're an aspiring author, a lifelong reader, a fan of supernatural fiction, or simply someone fascinated by the creative process, this conversation is an honest, encouraging look at following an idea that refuses to let go and having the courage to bring it to life. Sometimes the most memorable monsters aren't the ones who lose their humanity—they're the ones determined to keep it.

  8. Jul 14 ·  Video

    Ep. 62:The Courage to Be Sincerely Dissatisfied: Eric Kairys on Growth, Spirit, and Listening Within

    What if the key to changing your life isn't finding the perfect answer, but becoming genuinely dissatisfied with staying the same? In this thought-provoking episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson sits down with meditation teacher, endurance runner, and lifelong seeker Eric Kairys for a wide-ranging conversation that refuses to stay inside conventional boundaries. Beginning with the surprising story of how two ultramarathons changed the way Eric understood movement and pain, the discussion quickly expands into much bigger questions about spirituality, surrender, meditation, intuition, healing, and what it really means to know yourself. Eric shares his unconventional life journey, from studying engineering at Princeton to running a farm in Brazil, exploring diverse spiritual traditions, and eventually dedicating himself to helping others discover their own next step. Along the way, he reflects on why suffering can become a teacher, why gratitude must include life's hardships, and why true transformation begins only when we're "sincerely dissatisfied" with remaining where we are. The conversation also ventures into fascinating territory, touching on consciousness, organized religion, mystical experiences, Bigfoot, meditation, forgiveness, fear, and the surprising ways life seems to guide us when we're willing to listen. Whether you share Eric's spiritual worldview or simply enjoy conversations that challenge assumptions and invite deeper reflection, this episode offers an honest exploration of curiosity, resilience, and the lifelong pursuit of wisdom.

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About

Stories from Everywhere is a weekly, unscripted journey into the lives, ideas, and adventures of people from all walks of life. Hosted by award-winning author and journalist Jill L. Ferguson, each episode features candid, heart-centered conversations with guests from around the globe—artists, authors, entrepreneurs, students, elders, innovators, and dreamers—sharing the stories that shaped them. Produced by Let’s Talk About Love SPC, the show celebrates the universal threads that connect us, while honoring the unique voices that make our world endlessly fascinating. Come for the stories, stay for the connection.

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