Jun 10

Why It's So Hard to Make Friends as an Adult | Family, Community & Connection | Ep. 10

Why do family reunions disappear when one person passes away? Why can you know everything about an old friend on Facebook and still feel like complete strangers when you finally sit down to lunch? In this episode, Jonathon Guidry and Sarah Guidry get honest about something most people quietly struggle with: losing connection — with family, with friends, with community — and what it actually takes to get it back. In Episode 10 of Within the Glasswood Forest, we dive deep into family connection, friendship, and community building — and why staying connected has become so hard in modern life. We talk about growing up with family reunions every year and watching them fade away when the grandparents who held everything together were gone. We share what it was like to move three hours from family for work, the layoff that changed everything in our twenties, and how survival mode slowly turned into isolation without us ever choosing it. We also explore the difference between social media connection and real, in-person relationships, why neighbors can become chosen family, how church communities give people belonging in a new city, the underrated power of a simple hug or handshake, and how books — from Lord of the Flies to a half-remembered story about a boy and his dog — connect us to communities we don't even know we're part of. In this episode you'll hear: Why family reunions and traditions die out — and who really holds them together How moving away for work quietly erodes your closest relationships What losing a job in your twenties teaches you about survival, sacrifice, and what you give up to provide The trap of "knowing" people through social media while losing the actual friendship How to rebuild community as an adult: neighbors, church, and small intentional gestures Why introverts (and stressed-out extroverts) struggle with connection — and why it's still worth the discomfort The simplest call to action we can give you: grab a box of cookies and knock on your neighbor's door How stories and books create invisible communities of readers across generations Questions we explore: How do you rebuild family connection as an adult? Why is it so hard to make friends after moving to a new city? How do you balance work, business, and family time without isolating yourself? Why do we feel lonely even when we're connected online? How do you keep family traditions alive after the older generation passes? What does community actually mean today? Join the conversation: What's a book that changed how you see the world? Who was the "glue" in your family — and are those traditions still alive? Have you ever shown up at a neighbor's door just to say hello? Tell us in the comments. We read every one, and your story might just inspire someone else to reconnect. Glasswood Storyworks is a family-oriented publishing house on a mission to plant wonder. We help authors edit, format, and publish their books — including children's picture books — so great stories don't get lost in the noise of the thousands of titles self-published every day. Both of us are writing our own books under the Glasswood name, and we're building a team of authors who share our passion for stories with heart and soul. 📚 Are you an author? Submit your manuscript through the Authors link on our website — we'd love to read it! 🌐 Website: https://glasswoodstoryworks.com/ ✉️ Manuscript submissions: https://glasswoodstoryworks.com/ (see the Authors page) 🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode 📱 Follow Glasswood Storyworks on all major social platforms If your search looks like this, you're in the right place: how to reconnect with family, why did our family reunions stop, how to make friends as an adult, how to build community in a new town, moving away from family for work, dealing with loneliness as an adult, social media vs real friendship, why do I feel lonely even with social media, how to meet your neighbors

1h 11m

May 4

Why Storytelling Matters: The Hidden Power of Stories | Within the Glasswood Forest

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest. In this new episode, Jonathon Guidry (CEO, Co-Founder) and Sarah Guidry (CFO, Co-Founder) explore the timeless power of storytelling, why stories matter, how they shape childhood memories, connect families, inspire creativity, and leave lasting marks on our lives. Why Storytelling Matters: The Hidden Power of Stories The conversation begins with exciting Glasswood Storyworks updates, including progress on upcoming books from author Pete Amato, continued support for Nicole Smith-Schultz’s heartfelt children’s picture book My Baby Doll, and behind-the-scenes development of Ernest and the Berry Disaster. They also share updates on The Crimson Mural, the upcoming middle grade adventure novel written under the pen name Eden J. Spark. From emotional themes of grief, growth, courage, and transformation, to the creative process of building unforgettable worlds and characters, this episode offers an honest look into the heart of storytelling. Along the way, Jonathon and Sarah reflect on childhood memories, funny real-life stories, classic movies, books that changed them, villains audiences secretly root for, nostalgia in modern entertainment, and why certain stories stay with us forever. They discuss how storytelling can make us laugh, cry, heal, dream bigger, and see ourselves through the journeys of fictional characters. Whether through books, movies, family memories, or imagination, stories remain one of the most powerful tools humans have ever created. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that stories are more than entertainment. They help us process pain, preserve memories, strengthen families, and inspire the next generation. If you enjoy conversations about creativity, parenting, books, movies, imagination, personal growth, and meaningful life lessons, this episode is for you. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, authors, and upcoming releases at https://glasswoodstoryworks.com 📚 Featured Book: My Baby Doll by Nicole Smith-Schultz is available now through our store. 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest for thoughtful conversations about storytelling, family life, creativity, publishing, and building a life rooted in imagination and purpose. If you watched the full episode, comment Finished below so we know you made it to the end. If your search looks like this, you’re in the right place: Why is storytelling important? The power of storytelling in life Best podcasts about storytelling How stories shape our lives Why do stories connect people? Podcasts about creativity and imagination How storytelling helps children learn Family podcasts about life and growth Why books and stories matter Storytelling podcast for parents and creatorsFamily matters Story of my life Stories for kids Stories for toddlers What is love Why can’t we be friends Why I love you so much #storytelling #powerofstorytelling #podcast #familypodcast #books #writingcommunity #authors #creativity #personalgrowth #parenting #childrensbooks #middleschoolbooks #bookpodcast #imagination #glasswoodstoryworks

1h 1m

Mar 9

Family Life, Half Marathon Training, and Learning to Enjoy the Present

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest. In Episode 8, Jonathon Guidry (CEO, Co-Founder) and Sarah Guidry (CFO, Co-Founder) sit down for another honest, wide-ranging conversation about everyday life, long-term goals, and the small moments that shape who we become. This episode begins with an update on their half marathon training journey, including running over seven miles without stopping and preparing for the Houston Half Marathon in January 2027. Along the way, they talk openly about the challenges of weight loss, discipline, nutrition, and building healthier habits, while balancing busy family life and growing a business. The conversation moves naturally through the rhythms of everyday life. Parenting young children, creating meaningful family traditions like movie nights, learning patience through exercise, and remembering the importance of appreciating the small moments that often pass by too quickly. They also explore bigger topics including technology, artificial intelligence, the future of smartphones, environmental responsibility, and how modern life impacts the choices we make as families and individuals. From childhood memories and favorite books to anime, running, food, and raising kids in a digital world, this episode is a reminder that meaningful conversations often grow from the most ordinary moments. At its heart, this episode reflects on a simple but powerful idea: today is a gift, and learning to slow down and appreciate the present may be one of the most important things we can do. If you enjoy conversations about family life, personal growth, parenting, fitness goals, books, and thoughtful discussions about the future, this episode is for you. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming projects athttps://glasswoodstoryworks.com 📚 Featured Book: Nicole Smith-Schultz’s children's picture book My Baby Doll is now available through our store. 🎥 Upcoming Releases: We also share updates about upcoming Glasswood Storyworks projects including new children's books and creative collaborations. 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest for thoughtful conversations about storytelling, family life, creativity, and building a life rooted in imagination and purpose. If you watched the full episode, comment “Finished” below so we know you made it to the end. #halfmarathontraining #weightlossjourney #familypodcast #parentinglife #personalgrowth #mindfulparenting #fitnessjourney #runningmotivation #familylife #podcastconversation #authorlife #creativecommunity #glasswoodstoryworks #everymomentmatters #inspirationdaily

1 hr

Jan 25

Fear of Change vs Growth Mindset: Here’s Why Your Life Feels Stuck (And How to Move Forward)

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest. In Episode 7, we sit down for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about change. Why we resist it, what happens when we stay stagnant, and how the choices we make today shape who we become years from now.Jonathon Guidry (CEO, Co-Founder) and Sarah Guidry (CFO, Co-Founder) explore change through real life lenses: parenting different children in different seasons, adapting in business, preserving culture while embracing progress, and making difficult lifestyle changes for long-term health and family presence. From lessons drawn from Blockbuster vs Netflix to weight loss, education, faith, and raising kids in a digital world, this episode unpacks what growth really costs and why it is worth it.This conversation is for parents learning to adapt as their children grow, entrepreneurs navigating an ever-changing marketplace, and anyone feeling stuck between comfort and the future they know they want. Change is uncomfortable, but staying the same may cost even more.If you are searching for clarity, motivation, or perspective on how small decisions today can lead to a stronger tomorrow, this episode is for you.🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at GlasswoodStoryworks.com👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events.✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change.#changeyourmindsetchangeyourlife #change #change #familytravel #creativeinspiration #findingpatience #mindfulparenting #intentionalliving #creativeleadership #familyandfaith #slowdownandgrow #parentingpodcast #storytellingwithpurpose #mindfulnesspodcast #authorlife #inspiretocreate #everymomentmatters #leadershipgrowth #NatureAndCreativity #writersjourney #familypodcast #corememories #natureinspiration

56 min

12/23/2025

Ozark Mountains Campfire Talk: Creativity, Family, and Core Memories | Within the Glasswood Forest

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest. In Episode 6, we are sitting by the fire in the Arkansas Ozark Mountains, talking through the little moments that refill your creative tank. From spotting a squirrel in a tree to swapping stories about childhood movies, old Nintendo memories, and the strange beauty of clear night skies, this campfire conversation turns into something bigger: how imagination shows up when you finally slow down enough to notice it. Jonathon Guidry (CEO, Co-Founder) and Sarah Guidry (CFO, Co-Founder) share what the Ozarks are teaching us right now, including how travel sparks new book ideas (like a mysterious staircase in the middle of nowhere), why nostalgia can be fuel, and how family moments become the kind of “core memories” you carry forever. If you are a parent trying to stay present, a writer needing inspiration, or someone rebuilding your creativity one small moment at a time, this episode is for you. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at GlasswoodStoryworks.com 👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events. ✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change. #OzarkReflections #familytravel #creativeinspiration #arkansasmountains #findingpatience #mindfulparenting #intentionalliving #creativeleadership #familyandfaith #slowdownandgrow #parentingpodcast #storytellingwithpurpose #mindfulnesspodcast #authorlife #inspiretocreate #everymomentmatters #leadershipgrowth #NatureAndCreativity #writersjourney #fallcolors #CampfireTalk #familypodcast #corememories #natureinspiration

43 min

11/30/2025 · Bonus

Into the Ozarks: Finding Family, Story, and Inspiration in Nature | Within the Glasswood Forest | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest! In this special short from the Arkansas Ozarks, Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder of Glasswood Storyworks, is joined by Sarah Guidry, CFO, Co-Founder, and co-author of their shared pen names, Eden J. Spark & M. Rose. Together, they take listeners behind the scenes of a family trip that turned into a wellspring of new story ideas and creative renewal. Set against the backdrop of fall colors and mountain air, Jonathon and Sarah reflect on the humor of everyday life, the balance between work and wonder, and how moments of stillness often spark the best stories. Between laughter, campfire tales, and spontaneous Bigfoot legends, this short captures the spirit of what Glasswood Storyworks stands for—family, creativity, and imagination rooted in nature. Whether you’re a parent seeking inspiration, an author in need of a creative recharge, or simply someone who loves seeing the world through a storyteller’s eyes, this brief adventure through the Ozarks will remind you why slowing down always leads to discovery. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at GlasswoodStoryworks.com 👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events. ✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change. #OzarkReflections #FamilyTravel #CreativeInspiration #ArkansasMountains #FindingPatience #MindfulParenting #IntentionalLiving #CreativeLeadership #FamilyAndFaith #SlowDownAndGrow #ParentingPodcast #StorytellingWithPurpose #MindfulnessPodcast #AuthorLife #InspireToCreate #EveryMomentMatters #LeadershipGrowth #NatureAndCreativity #WritersJourney #FallColors

18 min

11/09/2025

Finding Patience: Why Every Moment Matters | Within the Glasswood Forest | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest!In this episode, Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder of Glasswood Storyworks, and children’s author writing as Eden J. Spark & M. Rose, reflects on one of life’s most overlooked virtues: patience. Through stories of family, leadership, and creativity, Jonathon explores how slowing down can actually help us move forward: how every pause shapes perspective, how stillness builds strength, and how patience changes the way we parent, teach, and create. From juggling projects and parenting to finding calm in Houston traffic, this episode shares real-world insights into balancing modern life with intentional living. Listeners will hear how cultivating patience can deepen relationships, reduce stress, and bring joy back into everyday moments. Along the way, Jonathon offers a glimpse into Glasswood Storyworks’ upcoming books, creative initiatives, and plans to bring storytime segments directly into the podcast. It’s an honest, heartfelt look at what it means to slow down, breathe, and make time for what matters most. Whether you’re a parent striving for balance, a teacher navigating busy classrooms, or an entrepreneur learning to lead with calm — this conversation invites you to rediscover the quiet power of patience and the beauty hidden in every moment. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at ⁠GlasswoodStoryworks.com⁠👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events.✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at ⁠careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com⁠🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change. #FindingPatience #MindfulParenting #IntentionalLiving #CreativeLeadership #FamilyAndFaith #SlowDownAndGrow #ParentingPodcast #StorytellingWithPurpose #MindfulnessPodcast #AuthorLife #InspireToCreate #EveryMomentMatters #LeadershipGrowth

54 min

10/27/2025

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 4: Rediscovering Imagination | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest! In this episode, Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder of Glasswood Storyworks, and children’s author writing as Eden J. Spark & M. Rose, invites listeners to pause and rediscover something we often lose as adults — our imagination. Joined quietly by his daughter in the studio, Jonathon reflects on the creative spark that fuels both storytelling and family life. From building treehouses as a child to watching his own kids turn a simple red potato into a magical treasure, Rediscovering Imagination reminds us that creativity isn’t just for children — it’s a shared language of connection, joy, and purpose. This episode explores Glasswood’s newest creative projects, introduces a few of the talented authors joining the Storyworks family, and dives into how imagination shapes parenting, teaching, leadership, and creative work. Through humor, reflection, and real family moments, listeners are encouraged to step away from the rush of life and reconnect with their own sense of wonder. Whether you’re a parent hoping to nurture creativity at home, a teacher looking to inspire your classroom, or an author rediscovering why you write — this conversation will leave you inspired to dream again. ✨ Rediscovering Imagination captures the essence of what Glasswood Storyworks stands for: planting wonder, nurturing creativity, and growing imagination for children, parents, and creators alike. 🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at GlasswoodStoryworks.com👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events.✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change.

34 min

10/26/2025

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 3: From Failure to Growth | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest!When failure stops feeling like failure — that’s when real growth begins. Watch now and rediscover what growth really looks like. Episode 3: From Failure to Growth Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder, and author writing as Eden J. Spark & M. Rose, explores why setbacks aren’t signs to quit — they’re the evidence that you’re building something real. From personal lessons in parenting and leadership to the unseen struggles of creating meaningful work, this conversation dives deep into what growth actually looks like when it’s uncomfortable.What you’ll hear in this episode:How failure shapes stronger parents, teachers, and creators.Why struggle is the foundation of mastery — not a roadblock.The unseen emotional work behind success, storytelling, and parenting.If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still falling short — this episode will help you see why that feeling might mean you’re exactly where you should be.Whether you’re a parent juggling busy schedules, a teacher trying to inspire a classroom, or a writer chasing your story — this conversation is for you.🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at ⁠⁠GlasswoodStoryworks.com⁠⁠ 👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events. ✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at ⁠⁠careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com⁠⁠ 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change.

52 min

10/24/2025

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 2: It’s Hard Because It Matters | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome back to Within the Glasswood Forest! We explore why the struggles we face are often the clearest signs that we’re on the right path in this episode of Within the Glasswood Forest. A behind-the-scenes journey into the stories, inspiration, and heart behind Glasswood Storyworks. It’s hard because it matters. Parenting, teaching, and storytelling all share this truth — the challenges are real, but they’re what make the work meaningful. Episode 2: It’s Hard Because It Matters Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder, and author writing as Eden J. Spark & M. Rose, reflects on lessons learned as a parent, a creator, and a leader. From early failures to meaningful wins, this episode digs into the heart of why pushing through discomfort, setbacks, and doubt is the only way to create something lasting.Whether you’re a parent juggling busy schedules, a teacher trying to inspire a classroom, or a writer chasing your story — this conversation is for you.🌿 Learn More: Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at ⁠GlasswoodStoryworks.com⁠ 👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers: Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events. ✍️ For Writers & Dreamers: Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at ⁠careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com⁠ 🎧 Stay Connected: Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change.

35 min

10/15/2025

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 1: An Unexpected Beginning | Glasswood Storyworks

Welcome to Within the Glasswood Forest!A behind-the-scenes journey into the stories, inspiration, and heart behind Glasswood Storyworks. Episode 1: An Unexpected BeginningJoin Jonathon Guidry, CEO & Co-Founder, and author writing as Eden J. Spark & M. Rose, as he shares what inspired the launch of Glasswood Storyworks and why storytelling for children matters so deeply. From imagination and growth to purpose and creativity, this first episode sets the stage for everything our stories represent—wonder, resilience, and the belief that stories can change lives. 🌿 Learn More:Explore our books, resources, and upcoming programs at GlasswoodStoryworks.com 👨‍👩‍🏫 For Parents & Teachers:Bring our stories into your homes and classrooms with companion activities, lesson ideas, and events. ✍️ For Writers & Dreamers:Partner with us to bring your stories to life! Learn how to join our creative community at careers@glasswoodstoryworks.com 🎧 Stay Connected:Subscribe to Within the Glasswood Forest and join our growing community of readers, educators, and creators who believe storytelling can inspire lasting change.

15 min

Within the Glasswood Forest

Episodes

Why It's So Hard to Make Friends as an Adult | Family, Community & Connection | Ep. 10

Why Storytelling Matters: The Hidden Power of Stories | Within the Glasswood Forest

Family Life, Half Marathon Training, and Learning to Enjoy the Present

Fear of Change vs Growth Mindset: Here’s Why Your Life Feels Stuck (And How to Move Forward)

Ozark Mountains Campfire Talk: Creativity, Family, and Core Memories | Within the Glasswood Forest

Into the Ozarks: Finding Family, Story, and Inspiration in Nature | Within the Glasswood Forest | Glasswood Storyworks

Finding Patience: Why Every Moment Matters | Within the Glasswood Forest | Glasswood Storyworks

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 4: Rediscovering Imagination | Glasswood Storyworks

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 3: From Failure to Growth | Glasswood Storyworks

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 2: It’s Hard Because It Matters | Glasswood Storyworks

Within the Glasswood Forest – Episode 1: An Unexpected Beginning | Glasswood Storyworks

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