Compass Stories

Veronica Sterling
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Self-Improvement

Welcome to Compass Stories with Veronica Sterling — a podcast about navigating disruption with clarity, connection, and courage. Through honest conversations, storytelling, and reflections from the road, Veronica explores what it means to move forward with purpose during seasons of change. A former hospice CEO, keynote speaker, and creator of The Commitment Compass, Veronica brings listeners into meaningful conversations about resilience, grief, leadership, caregiving, healing, reinvention, and the courage to realign when life feels uncertain. Each week features authentic guest conversations alongside personal travel diary reflections recorded during a cross-country journey in a 42-year-old Airstream motorhome. From national parks to small towns and big cities, these episodes explore the experiences, questions, and moments that shape us most. If you’ve ever felt stuck in transition, burned out, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, Compass Stories offers thoughtful conversations and practical encouragement to help you rediscover meaning, strengthen connection, and move forward with courage. Topics include resilience, purpose, grief and healing, burnout, caregiving, first responder wellness, personal growth, leadership, mental wellness, and navigating life transitions.

  1. 2d ago

    Jay Ehrnschwender: The Hidden Layers of Pain, Understanding Emotional & Physical Suffering

    In this insightful conversation, Jay Ehrnschwender, a pain expert and physical therapist, explores the complex nature of pain, its emotional and physical components, and how understanding these can help us navigate suffering and foster healing through connection, curiosity, and self-compassion. Jay is a physical therapist working near Cincinnati OH.  He started his career with a focus in orthopedics but has shifted to working with patients stuck in chronic pain.  Jay has been trained in a biopsychosocial approach to pain symptoms.  This training is notable because it requires not only the consideration of the physical self but also includes the influence of interpersonal dynamics and primitive protective reactions that often exist within the complexities of long-maintained pain. Keywords pain, emotional pain, physical pain, healing, connection, curiosity, self-compassion, pain management, mental health, physical therapy Key topics The dual nature of pain as sensory and emotional experience The role of curiosity in pain management and healing The impact of shame, stigma, and social support on pain and suffering Strategies for cultivating safety, connection, and authenticity in pain recovery The interconnectedness of physical and emotional pain and how to navigate it Sound bites "Masking often hides shame." "Fear is a major driver of pain." "Small wins build resilience." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pain and Therapy 02:53 Understanding Pain: A Dual Experience 05:52 Curiosity as a Tool for Navigating Pain 08:35 The Nature of Pain: Sensory and Emotional Components 11:31 The Cycle of Pain and Emotional Distress 14:23 The Interconnection of Emotional and Physical Pain 17:32 Stigma and Shame in Pain Experiences 20:27 Overcoming Shame and Building Connection 27:57 Understanding Suffering and Connection 29:31 The Role of Authenticity in Healing 31:42 Promoting Autonomy in Recovery 33:25 Healing Together in Shared Pain 37:45 Self-Compassion and Internal Support 40:19 The Intersection of Joy and Pain 43:20 Finding Hope in the Midst of Pain Resources International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) - https://www.iasp-pain.org/ Listen to Jay's Podcast, Rewiring Resilience https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewiring-resilience/id1819464502 Connect with Veronica https://www.veronicasterling.com

    Jay Ehrnschwender: The Hidden Layers of Pain, Understanding Emotional & Physical Suffering

  2. 6d ago ·  Bonus

    Travel Diary: The Loneliest Road & Scripts to Repair Disconnected Relationships

    Veronica Sterling reflects on loneliness, connection, and reconnection strategies inspired by her journey along the Loneliest Road in America. She offers practical scripts to help rebuild relationships and emphasizes personal accountability in overcoming loneliness. Keywords loneliness, reconnection, relationships, communication scripts, personal accountability, mental health, emotional well-being Key Topics Loneliness as a mismatch between desired and actual social connections Personal accountability in relationships Scripts for reconnecting after disconnection The importance of small acts of courage in relationships Reflecting on long-term relationship neglect takeaways Loneliness is about the mismatch between desired and actual social connections. Taking responsibility for disconnection can facilitate healing. Using specific scripts can help own your behavior and open dialogue. Small acts of courage deposit trust in relationships. Relationships are rebuilt through consistent, small deposits of effort. Sound Bites "You deserve consistency, and I’m sorry I disappeared." "I hate that this situation has created a distance between us." "Sometimes we participate in the circumstances that create loneliness." Chapters 00:00 The Loneliest Road in America 13:24 Reconnecting Through Accountability SCRIPTS I Crumbled Under Pressure Hey, I want to apologize for going radio silent over the last few months. I got really overwhelmed by personal things and completely shut down, which isn't fair to you. You deserve consistency, and I'm sorry that I disappeared. I want you to know I value our friendship so much. And there isn't any pressure right now, but when you're ready, I'd love to buy you a cup of coffee and catch up properly.   Repairing a Direct Conflict Script Hey, I've been doing a lot of thinking about how things left off between us. I am sorry for my part in how it was handled. I was defensive. I didn't listen to where you were coming from. And I hate that this situation has created a distance between us. And I don't expect to fix things overnight, but I want to apologize. And I'd love to listen when you're open to talking again.   Acknowledging Steady Drift Script hey, I was reflecting on things, and I realize how much distance has grown between us. Honestly, it makes me sad. I know life gets busy, but I haven't been as present or as proactive as I should have been to keep our connection strong. I'm sorry for my silence, and I'd love to start putting in the effort to rebuild things at a pace that's comfortable for both of us. Resources Connect with Veronica: https://www.veronicasterling.com

    Travel Diary: The Loneliest Road & Scripts to Repair Disconnected Relationships

  3. Jul 13

    Breanna Jackson: Unlock Your Authentic Self - 5 Steps to Discover Your Strengths & Values

    In this insightful conversation, Brianna Jackson, a Gallup certified Clifton Strengths Coach, shares her expertise on discovering your authentic self through values and strengths. She discusses practical strategies for building confidence, courage, and aligning your life with your core principles to achieve purpose and fulfillment. Keywords self-discovery, strengths, values, confidence, courage, personal development, CliftonStrengths, authentic self, purpose, coaching Key topics Discovering your authentic self through values Using CliftonStrengths to identify talents Building confidence and courage to pursue goals Aligning life and work with core principles Strategies for overcoming fear and self-doubt Sound Bites "Everything we need is already in us." "Fight battles the right way." "Purposeful living inspires others." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brianna Jackson 02:46 Finding Your Authentic Self 05:39 Navigating Life Disruptions and Values 08:17 Understanding Strengths and Talents 11:19 Building Confidence Through Strengths 14:29 The Achiever's Dilemma 17:12 Transforming Achiever Strengths into Meaningful Connections 29:13 Exploring Talents and Values 33:59 The Concept of Office Confidence 35:00 Understanding Courage and Willingness 39:57 Building Confidence Through Fear 49:47 The Journey of Unintended Consequences Resources CliftonStrengths Assessment - https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx The Refining Company - https://www.therefiningco.com Brene Brown's Values Exercise - https://brenebrown.com/resources/values-clarification/ Connect with Veronica - https://www.veronicasterling.com

    Breanna Jackson: Unlock Your Authentic Self - 5 Steps to Discover Your Strengths & Values

  4. Jul 9 ·  Bonus

    Travel Diary: Crater Lake & Lava Beds How Disruption Shapes Transformation in Our Next Chapter

    Veronica Sterling shares insights from her journey through volcanic landscapes, using them as metaphors for life's disruptions and transformations. She offers practical questions to navigate change and find new meaning. Keywords disruption, transformation, resilience, personal growth, volcanic landscapes, Crater Lake, Lava Beds, life changes, mindset, inspiration Key topics Disruption as a catalyst for transformation Lessons from volcanic landscapes as metaphors for life The importance of small steps in progress The role of connection and support during change Questions to reflect on during life's upheavals Takeaways Disruption doesn't mean the end; it can lead to new beginnings. Transformation is about discovering who we are now, not returning to who we were. Asking what still matters helps focus on core values during change. Small steps create momentum and make big changes manageable. Support from others makes navigating disruption easier. Sound bites "Resilience is discovering who we are now." "What is one small step forward?" "Who can walk with me?" Chapters 00:00 Exploring Lava Beds National Monument 06:16 Disruption and Transformation in Life 10:01 MASTER OUTRO.mp4 www.veronicasterling.com

    Travel Diary: Crater Lake & Lava Beds How Disruption Shapes Transformation in Our Next Chapter

  5. Jul 6

    Matthew Gellin: The Impact of Empathy, Storytelling & Using Theatre for System Wide Social Change

    Matthew Gellin shares his transformative journey in theater, emphasizing its social impact, innovative approaches, and the power of empathy and storytelling to foster community and personal growth. Keywords theater, social change, empathy, childhood development, community, storytelling, education, leadership, innovation, American Legacy Theater Key topics Theater as a tool for social change and empathy Innovative approaches to childhood development through theater The role of storytelling in community building and personal growth Titles Transforming Society Through Theater: The Impact of Empathy and Storytelling From Disappointment to Leadership: Matthew Gellin’s Theater Revolution Sound bites "Empathy exists in the universe, it's limitless." "Imagination makes the impossible possible." "Break the walls of self-imposed limitations." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Matthew Gellin 01:15 From Disappointment to Leadership in Theater 06:51 The Role of Theater in Social Change 12:28 Empowering Youth Through Theater Education 20:59 The Impact of Theater on Community and Individual Growth 27:01 Creating Safe Spaces for Empathy 29:29 The Nature of Empathy and Connection 33:34 Building Trust Through Vulnerability 36:54 The Complexity of Empathy 39:33 Understanding Different Types of Empathy 44:41 Safety vs. Comfort in Empathy 48:15 The Importance of Listening in Empathy 51:33 Creating New Stories and Possibilities Resources Links to American Legacy Theatre: https://americanlegacytheatre.org/ https://www.facebook.com/AmrcnLgcyThtr  https://www.instagram.com/amrcnlgcythtr/ Connect with Veronica: https://www.veronicasterling.com

    Matthew Gellin: The Impact of Empathy, Storytelling & Using Theatre for System Wide Social Change

  6. Jul 2 ·  Bonus

    Travel Diary: Redwoods National Park & The Power of Response

    Veronica Sterling shares her transformative journey through the Redwood National Park, exploring themes of nature, mindfulness, and the power of response. She reflects on her experiences, quotes Viktor Frankl, and invites listeners to consider their own responses to life's circumstances. Keywords personal growth, mindfulness, Redwood National Park, Viktor Frankl, response, resilience, reflection, nature, adventure, mindset Key topics The majesty of the Redwood Forest and its impact on mindfulness The story of a bear encounter and wildlife appreciation The quote by Viktor Frankl on response and growth The importance of choosing responses over circumstances Personal stories of uncertainty, purpose, and growth takeaways Our circumstances are not our identity; we can choose how to respond. Purpose often arrives before we feel ready; action precedes readiness. Small steps in work and life can lead to profound change. Creating space for reflection helps us see new possibilities. Action often comes before confidence; growth follows action. Sound bites "Between stimulus and response, there is a space." "Purpose rarely waits until we feel ready." "Where in your life have you confused your circumstances with your choices?" Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Majestic Redwoods 05:26 Reflections on Choice and Response 10:22 The Journey of Growth and Action 13:01 MASTER OUTRO.mp4 Resources: www.veronicasterling.com

    Travel Diary: Redwoods National Park & The Power of Response

  7. Jun 29

    Tom Synan: A Police Chief's Empathy as a Human Super Power

    Chief Tom Synan shares his journey from childhood purpose to leading community efforts in addiction response, emphasizing empathy, vulnerability, and collaboration in addressing complex social issues. Keywords police leadership, addiction response, empathy, community coalition, mental health, grief, vulnerability, social issues, law enforcement, purpose Key topics Chief Synan's early purpose and career in law enforcement The personal story behind the formation of the addiction coalition The role of empathy and vulnerability in leadership Challenges and lessons in community collaboration The importance of grief and resilience in social work Sound bites "I realized I made a difference in the community" "He was not a martyr, but a human being" "You can't punish addiction out of someone" Chapters 00:00 Finding Purpose in Service 06:19 The Impact of Addiction on Community 12:18 Empathy and Understanding in Law Enforcement 17:43 The Power of Vulnerability and Storytelling 23:28 Balancing Empathy and Self-Care 28:20 Understanding Empathy and Grief 31:16 The Creative Process and Vulnerability 35:01 The Human Side of First Responders 39:12 Challenges in Addressing Social Issues 44:46 Common Humanity and Shared Struggles 47:43 The Importance of Grief Education 52:33 Empathy as a Tool for Connection 56:24 MASTER OUTRO.mp4 Resources Hamilton County Addiction Response Coalition https://www.hamiltoncountyohio.gov/government/departments/addiction_response/addiction_response_coalition.php Tom Synan's Podcast: Hard Corners https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hard-corners-with-tom-synan/id1631263014 Tom Synan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-synan-14b1ba6b/ Connect with Veronica: www.veronicasterling.com

    Tom Synan: A Police Chief's Empathy as a Human Super Power

  8. Jun 25 ·  Bonus

    Travel Diary: Yosemite to Big Sur & A Lesson in Resilience

    Veronica Sterling shares her transformative journey through Yosemite and Big Sur, highlighting lessons on resilience, acceptance, and choosing how to respond to life's unexpected challenges. Keywords personal growth, resilience, acceptance, Yosemite, Big Sur, life lessons, travel, injury, mindset, reflection Key topics Resilience and mindset during travel Lessons from falling and injury in nature Choosing how to respond to unexpected challenges takeaways You can carry pain and joy simultaneously. Choosing your response is powerful in adversity. Acceptance is key to moving forward. Sound bites "I fell hard, but I kept going." "The pain comes with me, but so does the joy." "We still get to choose what happens next." Chapters 00:00 Exploring Big Sur: A New Adventure 01:55 Yosemite National Park: Beauty and Challenges 05:52 Lessons from Pain: A Journey of Reflection 09:12 Choosing Joy Amidst Struggles: Moving Forward 11:14 MASTER OUTRO.mp4 Resources Yosemite National Park - https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm Big Sur California - https://www.visitcalifornia.com/region/big-sur www.veronicasterling.com

    Travel Diary: Yosemite to Big Sur & A Lesson in Resilience
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to Compass Stories with Veronica Sterling — a podcast about navigating disruption with clarity, connection, and courage. Through honest conversations, storytelling, and reflections from the road, Veronica explores what it means to move forward with purpose during seasons of change. A former hospice CEO, keynote speaker, and creator of The Commitment Compass, Veronica brings listeners into meaningful conversations about resilience, grief, leadership, caregiving, healing, reinvention, and the courage to realign when life feels uncertain. Each week features authentic guest conversations alongside personal travel diary reflections recorded during a cross-country journey in a 42-year-old Airstream motorhome. From national parks to small towns and big cities, these episodes explore the experiences, questions, and moments that shape us most. If you’ve ever felt stuck in transition, burned out, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, Compass Stories offers thoughtful conversations and practical encouragement to help you rediscover meaning, strengthen connection, and move forward with courage. Topics include resilience, purpose, grief and healing, burnout, caregiving, first responder wellness, personal growth, leadership, mental wellness, and navigating life transitions.

Information

  • Creator
    Veronica Sterling
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Veronica Sterling