One Spark Stories

Katie Currens
  • 5.0 (11)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

One Spark Stories will leave you feeling empowered to live your purpose by taking action on your own dreams. Listen to innovators, creators, and unsuspecting risk takers share about the highs and lows, laughter and tears that lead to find their spark. From interviews to solo sessions, advice to hilarious mishaps, you will gain perspective and confidence to follow the beat of your own drum. Whether you are in pursuit of your own dreams, looking for hope to guide you through those challenges, or simply love hearing stories of everyday people living an extraordinary life, this podcast will inspire you to take action by connecting, creating, and celebrating unique sparks around the globe, once again proving that it is a small world, after all.

  1. Discovering Purpose Through Story and Community

    10/30/2025

    Discovering Purpose Through Story and Community

    "Transformation doesn't happen alone. You might put in the work, but real change begins when you let others in." Discover how transformation and storytelling intertwine in part two of this conversation between Katie Currens and James Warda. They explore how Disney's sense of wonder reminds us to reconnect with who we truly are and why sharing our stories can help others do the same. Notable Moments [01:12] Reframing what it means to be our truest selves in places of joy. [07:59] When one person shares vulnerably, it gives others permission to do the same. [09:28] The How Does Disney Do That? community [21:47] Discovering the heart of Give Kids the World Village [31:41] "Unlearn the lies that say you're not loved, you don't matter, you don't belong." [35:51] Transformation often lives in the smallest moments. Connect with James  howdoesdisneydothat.com jameswarda.com Connect with Katie About Katie Order her Books Connect with Katie on LinkedIn Follow Katie on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram

    41 min
  2. Let Yourself Rediscover Wonder

    10/15/2025

    Let Yourself Rediscover Wonder

    "The way the crowd gasps, it's not the kids, it's the adults. They are the ones that are yelling 'It's Tinkerbell!' And in that moment, it's clear that we all still have that child inside." Katie Currens reconnects with author, speaker, and returning guest James Warda, who shares insights on transformation, storytelling, and the emotional connections people have with Disney. During part 1 of their conersation, they discuss the power of curiosity, the importance of community, and how personal experiences can lead to profound changes in life. James emphasizes the significance of sharing stories by sharing many of his own, including the impact of organizations like Give Kids the World, which provides magical experiences for critically ill children. The conversation highlights the need for adults to reconnect with their childlike wonder and the importance of fostering a supportive community that encourages dreams and creativity. Episode Highlights 02:38 The Impact of Transformative Stories 08:12 Personal Transformations Through Curiosity and Experiences 10:30 The Power of Community and Connection 15:47 The Role of Music and Experience in Transformation 18:37 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions 21:21 The Journey of Writing and Discovery 24:08 The Emotional Connection to Disney 26:34  Rediscovering Our True Selves Connect with James   howdoesdisneydothat.com jameswarda.com Connect with Katie About Katie Order her Books Connect with Katie on LinkedIn Follow Katie on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram

    32 min
  3. Building Bridges by Networking with Students

    07/16/2025

    Building Bridges by Networking with Students

    "Networking isn't just for grown-ups in suits. It's a way to help students find their spark." Notable Moments: 00:00 – Why teaching kids to network matters 01:10 – Connection starts with listening, not lecturing 02:45 – 5 curiosity-building questions to ask students 04:40 – What's in it for professionals and businesses 06:00 – Practical, non-creepy ways to connect with youth 08:35 – Embrace the weird: students' career dreams and slime collections 10:19 – You don't need credentials to make an impact 11:08 – How to take action today in your community In this episode, Katie dives into how professionals can build meaningful bridges with students, no resumes or PowerPoints required. She shares five simple questions to spark career conversations, highlights how student engagement benefits businesses, and offers real-world ways to connect with youth through schools and local organizations. Connection starts with listening, and every one of us has something to offer the next generation. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

    12 min
  4. Balancing Business Growth and Family by Creating Traditions

    07/09/2025

    Balancing Business Growth and Family by Creating Traditions

    "As much as our kids need their parents, we need them probably just as much, if not more." Sometimes the simplest traditions, like a tent made of blankets in the basement, become the rituals that fuel our creativity, strengthen our connections, and help us rediscover that spark of childlike wonder. This week, I sat down with my friend Tim Dyck, owner of Best Culture Solutions and co-host of World at Work Podcast. We talk about what happens when we let ourselves slow down and make room for joy, even when life and business feel relentless. Tim's journey from the structure of a salaried job to the chaos (and freedom) of entrepreneurship has challenged him to be intentional: to say yes to what matters, and to create core memories with his daughters (even if that means falling asleep under a pile of giggling kids). We swap stories about finding balance, the magic in unplugging, and what using an old projector for backyard movie nights or listening to excited requests for tent nights can teach us about living with purpose. There's inspiration here for anyone needing permission to pause and play. There's also a gentle reminder that reconnecting with what lights us up is good for both our dreams and our souls. Connect with Tim and Best Culture Solutions: Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/ LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc Instagram: @best.culture.solutions   Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca Connect with Katie About Katie Order her Books Connect with Katie on LinkedIn Follow Katie on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram

    11 min
  5. It's the Simple Things That Ignite a Spark

    06/25/2025

    It's the Simple Things That Ignite a Spark

    "We've been taught that joy has to be earned, but sometimes joy is found in the pause." In this solo episode Katie Currens shares a reminder that it's the simple things that matter most. Inspired by recent life events, she reflects on how the most magical moments of life often come in between the big plans. Read more about this episode in her blog.   From letting go of perfect itineraries to recognizing the quiet power of everyday connection, she invites listeners to embrace the beauty in the small stuff. Much of her insights are sparked from a previous conversation with Bob and Rick Allen, two incredible leaders who have made significant impacts within the Walt Disney Company.... and beyond.  If you're navigating a tough season or just need a spark of perspective, this episode is your gentle nudge to slow down, reflect, and find joy in the unexpected. It also gives a peek at what's ahead for the podcast, including more solo episodes, guest stories, and spark-filled conversations. 🎧 Tune in, laugh a little, reflect a lot,  and embrace the simple sparks. Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Order Her Books Connect with Katie on LinkedIn Follow Katie on Instagram Follow One Spark Stories on Instagram: Instagram

    8 min
  6. Creating Magic by Reframing Women's Retirement

    03/20/2025

    Creating Magic by Reframing Women's Retirement

    "Every woman deserves to become, believe in, and share her best self with the world in ways that are uniquely hers." After a 35 year career with Disney, Camille Wolsonovich is on a mission to help women create their own paths, especially during life's big transitions. She has combined her business experience with her gift of helping women recognizing their hidden gifts and find purpose. Join our conversation to hear how she's transforming the idea of 'retirement' and encouraging women to prioritize their dreams over outdated assumptions. As the founder of MyAspirement, Camille is dedicated to reminding women that they are part of a larger community of like-minded 'sheroes'. Check out her link to learn more about the community she has built to collaborate and celebrate manifesting our future dreams. 00:50 Encouraging Women to Forge Paths 05:23 Value of Pattern Recognition in HR and Operations 09:21 Gap in Support for Women Planning Retirement  10:08 Finding Fulfillment by Combining Personal Interests and Professional Opportunities 13:12 Financial Planning Challenges and Opportunities for Women 16:35 Start Planning for Future Life Now 19:54 Unsung Women of Disney's Legacy 25:54 Rethinking Retirement by Focusing on Time and Energy as well as Money 27:36 Women's Coaching and Group Cohorts 32:38 Importance of Identifying and Challening Self-Limiting Beliefs 33:52 Decluttering Physical and Emotional "Stuff" 37:11 Empowerment Through Personal Transformation Connect with Camille  https://www.myaspirement.com/ Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

    39 min
  7. Discovering How Disney Creates Memorable Worlds

    02/20/2025

    Discovering How Disney Creates Memorable Worlds

    "In the world of themed experience design, the most important aspect of your design is does it make people want to come back and see it and experience it again?" Have you ever found yourself wondering "How does Disney do that?" James Warda, columnist, speaker, professor, and author of the book "How Does Disney Do That?" has that experience on a ride. He turned his curiosity into a passion to uncover the spark behind the experiences. He teamed up with Theron Skees, a former senior creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, to discover more stories from people helping create immersive experiences. Their unique perspectives give a glimpse into what it takes to create memorable worlds that resonate with people of all ages. This conversation highlights the importance of  wonder, community, and letting creativity lead. Notable Moments 05:38 Embracing Unconventional Learners 08:24 Embracing Life in Imagineering 10:33 Importance of Silence for Reflection and Creativity 14:22 Finding Connection Through Storytelling 21:37 Intentionally Crafting Guest Experiences 29:35 Designing Repeatable Community Experiences 34:40 Furlough Leads to Reflection of Purpose and What's Next 35:40 Importance of Emotional Connections in Business and Branding 52:06 Positive Reinforcement in Childhood 56:23 Embrace Spontaneity in Travel Planning Connect with James and Theron  howdoesdisneydothat.com jameswarda.com https://creatingmemorableworlds.com Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

    58 min
  8. The OutSCIder's Guide to Adventure and Education

    02/06/2025

    The OutSCIder's Guide to Adventure and Education

    "Our childhoods are so tragically short to begin with. And then we're adults and we forget what it's like to just play." Notable Moments 03:27 A Childhood Spent Exploring the Outdoors 09:25 From Teacher to Science Blogger 13:57 Removing the Emotional Attachment to Ideas 18:17 Launching National Parks Educational Series 20:31 Creating Educational Resources Platform 29:16 Social Media Impact and Strategy 31:46 Creating Connections Through Acts of Kindness 34:03 Embracing Being Wrong What if your childhood playtime led to a career that connects hearts globally? Chris Anderson shares how his outdoor adventures sparked a passion for science & exploration. Chris takes us through his transition from classroom teacher to creating educational content. He shares how his project, Science Around Cincy, became the catalyst for OutSCIder Classroom, where he hits the road and teaches science through the lens of our state and national parks. It is always a blast hearing from creative minds who merge passion with purpose. Make sure to take a listen to this conversation with Chris Anderson. It will be a great reminder that embracing curiosity and taking action on your ideas can change your life. Connect with Chris Anderson https://www.outscider.org/ YouTube Channel OutSCIder Instagram OutSCIder Scidence Around Cincy Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

    35 min
See All (70)

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

One Spark Stories will leave you feeling empowered to live your purpose by taking action on your own dreams. Listen to innovators, creators, and unsuspecting risk takers share about the highs and lows, laughter and tears that lead to find their spark. From interviews to solo sessions, advice to hilarious mishaps, you will gain perspective and confidence to follow the beat of your own drum. Whether you are in pursuit of your own dreams, looking for hope to guide you through those challenges, or simply love hearing stories of everyday people living an extraordinary life, this podcast will inspire you to take action by connecting, creating, and celebrating unique sparks around the globe, once again proving that it is a small world, after all.

Information

  • Creator
    Katie Currens
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Katie Currens, LLC 2024
  • Show Website
    One Spark Stories