Discover The Wonder

Wonder Peak
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At Wonder Peak, we believe stories are more than entertainment—they are doorways to awe, imagination, and transformation. Through our podcast series Discover The Wonder™, we invite you to journey into narratives that awaken curiosity, spark inspiration, and reveal the hidden magic within everyday life. From fantastical worlds to the wonder tucked into the ordinary, each episode blends creativity and insight to transport you somewhere unexpected. Our mission is simple: to challenge, uplift, and expand the way you see the world, reminding you that wonder is always within reach. Step into a new way of listening. Step into wonder.

Episodes

  1. Nov 5

    ASHLEY AVIS | The Beauty of the Wild, the Power of Storytelling & Discovering Wonder

    What if the stories we tell could change the world? In this moving episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther welcomes acclaimed filmmaker, writer, and wildlife advocate Ashley Avis, the visionary behind Black Beauty and founder of the Wild Beauty Foundation. From her early days as an aspiring writer in New York City to directing films that have touched audiences around the world, Ashley's journey is a testament to the extraordinary places curiosity, compassion, and creative conviction can lead us. In an intimate and wide-ranging conversation, Ashley reflects on the serendipitous meeting that led her to reimagine Black Beauty, the remarkable love story she shares with her husband and creative partner, and the unexpected moment that inspired her to rescue 13 horses—and ultimately establish a foundation dedicated to protecting America's wild horses. She also offers a glimpse into her forthcoming creative projects, including American Wolf, developed with Leonardo DiCaprio's Appian Way, and her reimagining of City of Angels with Warner Bros. At the heart of the conversation lies a beautiful and timely reminder: wonder is not something we outgrow. It is something we must choose to preserve. Through storytelling, the natural world, and the courage to act on what moves us, Ashley invites us to rediscover our connection to the extraordinary beauty that surrounds us. IN THIS EPISODE The creative journey that led Ashley from journalism to Hollywood The extraordinary meeting that brought Black Beauty to life Finding love, partnership, and creative harmony How rescuing 13 horses became a life-changing mission The urgent fight to protect America's wild horses American Wolf, Yellowstone, and the delicate balance of nature Reimagining City of Angels for a new generation Creating sacred spaces for inspiration and artistic expression Why reconnecting with nature may be the simplest way to rediscover wonder CHAPTERS 00:00 — A Horse That Changed Everything 00:38 — Welcome to Discover the Wonder 02:17 — Ashley's Journey: From Dreamer to Filmmaker 04:42 — Finding Her Creative Purpose Through Black Beauty 05:34 — The Serendipitous Meeting That Changed Her Career 07:25 — Love, Marriage & Creative Partnership 09:47 — The Birth of the Wild Beauty Foundation 12:05 — The Untold Story of America's Wild Horses 15:24 — How We Can Help Protect Them 17:29 — American Wolf & the Wonder of Yellowstone 19:41 — Reimagining City of Angels 21:41 — A Day in the Life of a Filmmaker 22:57 — Creating a Sacred Space for Creativity 24:07 — Rediscovering Wonder in the Natural World 25:11 — Closing Reflections ABOUT ASHLEY AVIS Ashley Avis is an award-recognized writer, director, producer, and passionate advocate for animal welfare. Her work includes Black Beauty and the documentary Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West, which received a Critics Choice Documentary Award nomination. As founder of the Wild Beauty Foundation, she works to raise awareness, inspire compassion, and advocate for the protection of wild and domestic horses through film, education, and legislative outreach. DISCOVER MORE Wild Beauty Foundation https://wildbeautyfoundation.org Follow the Wild Beauty Foundation on Instagram: @wildbeautyspirit ABOUT DISCOVER THE WONDER Discover the Wonder is a conversation series exploring the curiosity, creativity, and human experiences that make life extraordinary. Through thoughtful conversations with remarkable artists, visionaries, and changemakers, host Daniel Herther invites us to look beyond achievement and rediscover the beauty, possibility, and wonder woven into everyday life. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations, and join us in discovering the wonder. If this conversation moved you, please like, share, and tell us in the comments: Where do you find wonder in your own life? #DiscoverTheWonder #AshleyAvis #BlackBeauty #WildBeautyFoundation #WildHorses #Filmmaking #Storytelling #NatureConservation #Inspiration 🌿 Learn more about Ashley's mission: https://wildbeautyfoundation.org ✨ Discover the Wonder explores the extraordinary within the everyday through intimate conversations with remarkable artists, thinkers, and visionaries. Subscribe, like, and share—and join us as we discover the wonder together. #DiscoverTheWonder #AshleyAvis #BlackBeauty #WildBeautyFoundation #WildHorses #Storytelling #Filmmaking #Inspiration

  2. Mar 6

    Inside the Mind of a Next-Generation Film Producer w/ Liana Montemayor

    In this episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with rising film producer Liana Montemayor to explore how the next generation of filmmakers are discovering powerful new stories and developing projects that resonate with modern audiences. Liana represents a new wave of producers who combine creative instinct, emotional storytelling, and commercial awareness to identify scripts that stand out in today's competitive film landscape. She shares how producers evaluate projects, what makes a screenplay impossible to ignore, and why audiences connect most deeply with stories that carry both heart and imagination. The conversation also dives into Leviticus, a powerful horror drama that left a lasting impression on Liana—proof that the most compelling genre films don't just deliver scares, they reveal something deeply human beneath the surface. Together, Daniel and Liana explore: • How producers discover great scripts • What makes a screenplay stand out in Hollywood • The evolving role of producers in shaping modern cinema • Why emotional storytelling still drives the most memorable films • How curiosity and instinct help filmmakers find their next great story Whether you're a screenwriter, filmmaker, producer, or movie lover, this episode offers an inside look at how emerging producers are shaping the future of storytelling. Because sometimes the greatest films begin with a simple moment of curiosity… and the wonder of discovering something extraordinary.

    Inside the Mind of a Next-Generation Film Producer w/ Liana Montemayor

  3. Jan 30

    How Olivia Singer Turns Wonder Into Creative Power

    In this episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with comedian, writer, actor, and producer Olivia Singer for a powerful conversation about creativity, manifestation, and staying connected to your sense of wonder — even in an industry built on rejection. Olivia shares how she went from an anxious child growing up back East to a fearless creator in Los Angeles who wrote, produced, and starred in her own pilot. She opens up about consistency, delusional optimism, trusting joy as a compass, and why wonder is not something you find once — but something you choose daily. This episode explores: How creatives can stop waiting for permission The role of energy, frequency, and joy in manifestation Why embracing vulnerability creates magnetism How childhood wonder becomes the fuel for adult success What happens after we die — and why Earth might be the hardest school of all If you're a writer, actor, filmmaker, entrepreneur, or anyone searching for inspiration, purpose, and creative momentum — this episode is for you. 01:15 – Olivia Singer's creative background & love of storytelling 03:40 – Why wonder changes every day 06:10 – Creating your own opportunities in film & TV 08:45 – Writing, producing, and starring in her own pilot 12:20 – From idea to production: how she made it happen 15:30 – Consistency, dedication, and trusting excitement 18:50 – Being "delusionally" bold & fearless outreach 22:40 – Manifestation, energy, and joy in the doing 26:15 – Law of attraction & trusting your inner knowing 30:10 – Childhood anxiety, OCD, and radical self-acceptance 35:00 – Owning insecurity and turning it into magnetism 38:40 – The moment Olivia knew acting was her destiny 43:10 – First time making an audience laugh 47:30 – Why childlike wonder never disappears 51:20 – How Olivia nurtures wonder today 54:10 – Dogs, singing, and joy as creative activators 57:45 – What's next: selling the pilot & future projects 1:02:30 – Why we need more female-led buddy comedies 1:06:50 – Creativity, structure, and manifestation 1:10:40 – What happens after we die? 1:13:30 – Consciousness, higher dimensions & Neil deGrasse Tyson's analogy 1:17:40 – Final thoughts on purpose, wonder, and choosing Earth 1:20:00 – Closing & how to follow the journey

    How Olivia Singer Turns Wonder Into Creative Power

  4. 12/19/2025

    Hamlet, King Lear, and Finding Meaning Through Shakespeare w/ Theresia de Vroom

    What does Shakespeare teach us about wonder, consciousness, creativity, and the human condition? In this thought-provoking episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with renowned Shakespeare scholar and professor Theresia de Vroom for a wide-ranging conversation on curiosity, meaning, art, literature, and how we make sense of life. Theresia shares how wonder begins in childhood—and how modern life can erase it—then brings us into the world of Hamlet, King Lear, Macbeth, and A Midsummer Night's Dream, exploring how Shakespeare created characters with emotional depth, moral complexity, and multiple perspectives on truth. Along the way, they unpack the symbolism in Renaissance masterpieces like Holbein's The Ambassadors and the cultural power of Queen Elizabeth I's "Rainbow Portrait," revealing how art trains us to see what we usually avoid: mortality, identity, and the search for meaning. This episode also explores the role of mercy, conscience, and empathy, and why Theresia teaches Shakespeare on Skid Row, where students often read the work with extraordinary clarity. A must-listen for anyone interested in Shakespeare explained, literary analysis, art history, philosophy, spiritual curiosity, and finding wonder in everyday life. Wonder and curiosity as a daily practice Shakespeare's relevance today: truth, empathy, and moral complexity Hamlet's "To be or not to be" and the fear of the unknown King Lear, compassion, and responsibility for the vulnerable Macbeth, mortality, and "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow" How art and literature deepen meaning and expand perspective

    Hamlet, King Lear, and Finding Meaning Through Shakespeare w/ Theresia de Vroom

  5. 12/05/2025

    What Dogs Teach Us About Humanity w/ Kim Sill

    In this powerful episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with legendary animal rescue activist Kim Sill, founder of Shelter Hope Pet Shop in Thousand Oaks and longtime advocate for dogs in high-kill shelters across California. Kim shares how a childhood shaped by foster care visits and government shelters led her to save more than 16,000 animals and become one of America's most respected voices in animal welfare. From the truth about puppy mills and "good breeders," to why mutts and shelter dogs are often the most magical companions, Kim pulls back the curtain on what's really happening inside overcrowded shelters—and how each of us can help. If you care about dogs, animal rescue, adoption, and compassion, this conversation will move you deeply. 🐾 How Kim's childhood shaped her empathy Growing up with a social worker father, visiting foster homes and shelters, and seeing firsthand the bond between vulnerable kids and abandoned animals. 📉 The truth about shelter overcrowding in California Why California euthanizes more animals than any other state, the impact of overbreeding and puppy mills, and how weak enforcement of existing laws keeps the crisis going. 💸 The real cost of "trendy" dog breeds Frenchies, Goldens, designer "doodles" and hybrids—why medical issues, food sensitivities, and lack of education lead so many owners to surrender these dogs. 💗 COVID, grief, and restored humanity How staying open during the pandemic exposed Kim to heartbreaking stories—but also rekindled her faith in human kindness and our capacity to care. 🐶 Why mutts might be the best dogs of all The magic of mixed-breed dogs, their personalities, and why "Hines 57" pups can be some of the healthiest, most soulful companions. 🌍 Practical ways you can help—wherever you live How to volunteer, choose ethical rescues, support local shelters, and make more mindful decisions when bringing a dog into your family. 03:10 – Childhood, foster homes, and discovering empathy through animals 08:45 – Inside government shelters & the crisis most people never see 13:20 – Why California euthanizes more dogs than any other state 19:05 – Puppy mills, overbreeding, and the myth of the "good breeder" 25:30 – The Frenchie trend and the medical realities behind it 32:40 – COVID, grief, and how rescue work restored Kim's faith in people 40:15 – The unspoken language between humans and dogs 47:10 – Should you ever breed your dog "for the experience"? 55:00 – Why mutts and mixed-breed dogs are often the true hidden gems 01:04:20 – Transforming "problem dogs" into thriving companions 01:12:00 – How you can get involved, volunteer, and support rescues 🎧 Listen if you love: Animal rescue, dog adoption stories, true behind-the-scenes shelter life, compassionate leadership, and real talk about what it means to be a guardian to our "best friends." 🔗 Learn more & support: Shelter Hope Pet Shop: shelterhopepetshop.com The Truth About Fake Rescues: thetruthaboutfakerescues.com 💡 What you'll learn in this episode:

    What Dogs Teach Us About Humanity w/ Kim Sill

  6. 11/21/2025

    The Magic of Returning to Art for Yourself w/ Lindsay Stidham

    In this inspiring episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with writer, filmmaker, and poet Lindsay Stidham for a deeply honest conversation about creativity, self-expression, and rediscovering the joy of making art. Lindsay shares how returning to poetry helped her break free from creative pressure, escape the constraints of commercial screenwriting, and reconnect with wonder. She reads original poems—never before shared publicly—and opens up about how anger, stillness, and curiosity can all become fuel for creativity. From her unusual upbringing in Florida's strange, story-rich environment to her move to Los Angeles at 21 to attend AFI, Lindsay reflects on the moments that shaped her personal and artistic evolution. She talks about finding community through comedy, navigating the challenges of Hollywood, and learning to protect her voice while still staying open to collaboration. In a special announcement, Lindsay unveils her upcoming Wonder Peak show, First Five, a podcast breaking down the crucial first five pages of famous scripts and works in progress—designed for screenwriters, storytellers, and movie lovers who live for the hook. This episode explores creativity, writing, authenticity, resilience, and the lifelong journey of returning to the magic of wonder.

    The Magic of Returning to Art for Yourself w/ Lindsay Stidham

  7. 11/07/2025

    How to Find Wonder Again (Even in a Chaotic World) w/ Courtney Cilman – Screenwriter, storyteller & lifelong seeker of everyday magic

    In this episode, Daniel and Courtney explore how wonder can be found not just in major life experiences, but in the everyday moments we often overlook. Courtney shares how writing, yoga, and simply paying attention to nature—especially the hummingbirds that visit her window—keep her grounded and inspired. They also discuss creativity in the age of AI, the importance of human-crafted storytelling, and why imagination remains essential. The conversation flows into consciousness, meaning, and what might happen after death—always coming back to presence, gratitude, and the beauty of being alive. Key Takeaways Wonder often reveals itself in small, ordinary moments Creativity continues to thrive when rooted in genuine passion Physical practices like yoga can restore clarity and emotional balance AI may assist creativity, but human connection and intention are irreplaceable Focusing on what we can control nurtures happiness and resilience If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and share Discover the Wonder with someone who would love these conversations.

  8. 10/24/2025

    Stephen Galloway — On Curiosity, Creativity, and the Human Spirit

    In this inspiring episode of Discover the Wonder, host Daniel Herther sits down with journalist, storyteller, and Chapman University Dean Stephen Galloway for a deep conversation on curiosity, creativity, and what drives the human spirit. From his upbringing as the son of a Holocaust survivor to his reflections on Hollywood's hidden truths, Galloway reveals how wonder, empathy, and failure have shaped his journey. ✨ Key Takeaways 🎬 Curiosity is the heartbeat of creativity — true wonder never fades. 💫 Success and emptiness often coexist — fulfillment comes from meaning, not applause. 📚 Failure is a teacher — every story needs its rewrites. 🌍 Life experience feeds artistry — empathy grows from lived experience. 🤖 AI is a tool, not a threat — learn to harness it with creativity. 🐾 Wonder lives in small moments — from Chopin's music to the gaze of a beloved dog. Call to Action: If this episode moved you, please follow, rate, and share Discover the Wonder to help others rediscover their own sense of awe.

    Stephen Galloway — On Curiosity, Creativity, and the Human Spirit
  • 8 Episodes

About

At Wonder Peak, we believe stories are more than entertainment—they are doorways to awe, imagination, and transformation. Through our podcast series Discover The Wonder™, we invite you to journey into narratives that awaken curiosity, spark inspiration, and reveal the hidden magic within everyday life. From fantastical worlds to the wonder tucked into the ordinary, each episode blends creativity and insight to transport you somewhere unexpected. Our mission is simple: to challenge, uplift, and expand the way you see the world, reminding you that wonder is always within reach. Step into a new way of listening. Step into wonder.

Information

  • Creator
    Wonder Peak
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Wonder Peak
  • Show Website
    Discover The Wonder