The Life Shift - Pivotal Life-Changing Moments

Matt Gilhooly
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The Life Shift - Pivotal Life-Changing Moments Podcast

What is your pivotal moment? The Life Shift Podcast is a weekly podcast featuring candid conversations with people about the pivotal moments that changed their lives forever. We all have our stories, but through these conversations, we discover communities. We learn that there are commonalities through the ups and downs that we all face. But most importantly, we learn that we are not alone. The Life Shift podcast highlights life-altering moments and humanizes the struggles and triumphs through them all. Hosted by Matt Gilhooly "I want these conversations to feel like eavesdropping on two friends having a human conversation. These are the conversations that we should be having with each other. Below the surface." Please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app, listen to new episodes every Tuesday, and let me know your thoughts about the show. If you enjoy The Life Shift Podcast, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Get access to ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast For more information, please visit: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

  1. Two Cultures, One Authentic Self | Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson

    4 DAYS AGO

    Two Cultures, One Authentic Self | Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson

    In this episode of "The Life Shift Podcast," Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson shares her extraordinary journey of growing up and finding herself within the contrasting cultures of Saudi Arabia and Italy. Jasmin shares the internal conflicts and societal challenges she faced, her use of imagination as a means of coping, and her ultimate quest for living an authentic life. This episode offers a heartfelt and inspiring narrative about resilience, creativity, and the courage to embrace one's true identity. Navigating Dual Cultures Jasmin's upbringing between Saudi Arabia and Italy presented unique challenges and opportunities, shaping her worldview and identity. At home, she experienced Italian customs, language, and an open atmosphere; while in public and at school in Saudi Arabia, she encountered traditional and conservative expectations. This juxtaposition created a sense of internal conflict and confusion, as she had to switch between these two worlds constantly. Jasmin’s story highlights the complexities and richness of living between two cultures and the challenges of balancing them. Escapism and Imagination Confronted with the restrictive societal norms of Saudi Arabia, Jasmin turned to her imagination and creativity as a means of escape. She, along with her siblings and friends, created entire worlds, complete with their own languages and characters. This imaginative escapism provided a mental sanctuary where she could freely express herself and explore her identity without fear of repercussions. Her love for Michael Jackson and her private performances in her bedroom served as another outlet for her creative and artistic inclinations. These activities were not just pastimes but vital coping mechanisms that helped her navigate her constrained reality. Quest for Authenticity Jasmin’s journey is ultimately one of seeking and finding authenticity. Growing up, she was often advised to hide her true feelings and conform to societal expectations to avoid trouble. However, suppressing her true self led to an internal struggle and a deep yearning for freedom and authenticity. Her story underscores the importance of living a life true to oneself despite external pressures and constraints. Jasmin’s eventual escape from Saudi Arabia was pivotal in her journey toward self-discovery and living an authentic life. Her experience serves as an inspiring reminder of the courage it takes to pursue one’s true identity and the fulfillment that comes from living authentically. Guest BioJasmin is a social and behavioral researcher, author, speaker, podcaster, and cultural identity advocate. Born in the Middle East to an Arabian father and Italian mother, Jasmin has lived the intersectionality of her identities through challenges and triumphs as the product of the first generation of bi-cultural children in a conservative and isolated Saudi Arabia of the 1970s/80s. Jasmin's areas of expertise include deconstructing social & cultural bias, social identity, social/cultural oppression, women's rights, multicultural perspective, racial/ethnic understanding, and radical ideologies. In her memoir, "The Last Sandstorm," Jasmin highlights the colorful and challenging experiences of her upbringing in Saudi Arabia, which led to her harrowing escape in her 20s. Jasmin hosts the podcast "I Want You To Meet," where she engages with artists and activists in inspiring and educational conversations. Connect with Jasmin Faulk-DickersonWebsite: www.Jasminfaulkdickerson.comBook: The Last Sandstorm: A Memoir Amazon LinkInstagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/jasmin.faulk.dickerson" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 10m
  2. Embracing Change and Finding New Beginnings | Ann Anderson Evans

    SEP 3

    Embracing Change and Finding New Beginnings | Ann Anderson Evans

    In this episode of The Life Shift Podcast, Ann Anderson Evans, an author and former professor, shares the pivotal moments that have changed her life, including becoming single three times—twice divorced and once widowed. Ann discusses these experiences' impact on her self-discovery, resilience, and personal growth. The episode also delves into societal expectations, the evolving roles of men and women, and Ann's adventures in online dating later in life. Resilience in the Face of AdversityAnn's journey is a powerful testament to resilience. Despite experiencing the end of three significant relationships, she managed to rebuild her life each time. Her story highlights the strength required to overcome personal loss and the importance of forging new paths forward. Ann's ability to adapt and thrive in the face of such challenges provides listeners with a compelling example of how to navigate life's unpredictable twists and turns. Self-Discovery and Personal GrowthAfter her second divorce, Ann spent 12 years focusing on her personal growth and self-discovery. She learned to rely on herself and discovered she could accomplish tasks she had previously left to men, such as repairing a lamp or selling a house. This period allowed her to redefine her identity and gain confidence in her abilities. Ann's story underscores the importance of taking time to understand oneself and the value of independence in personal growth. Guest BioAnn Anderson Evans is the author of two memoirs, the award-winning "Daring to Date Again" and the recently published "The Sweet Pain of Being Alive." Her story "Precious Love" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. She is a writer, linguist, and former professor. Twice a wife and once a widow, she's a mother and grandmother. Ann has traveled and lived in many countries and speaks six languages. She currently resides in Vermont with her Sealyham Terrier, Gus. Connect with Ann Anderson EvansWebsite: annandersonevans.com Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com Mentioned in this episode: Thank you to Ear Worthy - Ear Worthy Independent Podcast Awards https://podnews.net/press-release/ear-worthy-awards-2024 This podcast uses the following...

    1h 0m
  3. A Mother’s Legacy: Finding Strength Amidst Grief | A Tribute to Joan Gilhooly

    SEP 1

    A Mother’s Legacy: Finding Strength Amidst Grief | A Tribute to Joan Gilhooly

    In this episode of 'The Life Shift Podcast,' Matt shares the pivotal moment in his life when he lost his mother in a tragic accident at the age of eight. Matt explores how this life-altering event shaped his journey through grief, personal growth, and, ultimately, his purpose in creating The Life Shift Podcast for sharing transformative stories. Understanding and Processing GriefMatt candidly discusses his decades-long journey of processing the grief of losing his mother at a young age. He reflects on how his childhood understanding of death and the lack of open discussions about grief in the late '80s led to a prolonged and complex grieving process. This takeaway highlights the importance of acknowledging and actively working through grief, even if it takes years, to find peace and understanding. The Impact of Early Life ShiftsThe episode emphasizes how significant life events in childhood can profoundly influence one's life path and decision-making processes. Matt shares how his mother's death instilled a fear of abandonment and a drive for perfectionism, shaping his behavior and choices well into adulthood. This takeaway underscores the lasting impact of early life shifts and the necessity of addressing their emotional implications to achieve personal growth. The Healing Power of StorytellingMatt reveals how creating 'The Life Shift Podcast' has been a therapeutic journey, allowing him to connect with others through shared experiences of pivotal life moments. By listening to the stories of others, he finds validation and healing, underscoring the transformative power of storytelling. This takeaway illustrates how sharing personal narratives can foster connection, understanding, and healing for both the storyteller and the audience. Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    21 min
  4. What Would You Say? | Eps. 101-110 | Reflections on Pivotal Moments

    AUG 30

    What Would You Say? | Eps. 101-110 | Reflections on Pivotal Moments

    This bonus episode recaps the final statements from episodes 101 - 110, where guests reflect on what they would say to themselves before their life-shift moment and offer advice to those going through similar experiences. These conversations are raw, personal, and deeply inspiring. In this episode, guests share advice such as not worrying about the big picture, focusing on what's in your control, and seeking a coach for guidance. They also emphasize the importance of self-love, taking risks, and embracing life's messiness. Many guests reflect on how their past experiences have shaped them into who they are today and encourage others to keep growing and learning. These conversations remind us that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but with self-love, resilience, and a willingness to take risks, we can overcome our challenges and thrive. Please tune in to the Life Shift Podcast for candid conversations about the pivotal moments that shape our lives. Guest Appearances in order: Jeremy Grater - Episode 101Mindy Corporan - Episode 104Stephanie Franklin - Episode 105Jaclyn Lindsey - Episode 110Allison Teicher-Fahrbach - Episode 107Audrey Laura White - Episode 108Kate Walker - Episode 109Lauren Cobello - Episode 106Rebecca Kirk - Episode 103Chris Rock - Episode 102 Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

    10 min
  5. From Car Crash to Conquering the Seven Second Summits | Jenn Drummond

    AUG 27

    From Car Crash to Conquering the Seven Second Summits | Jenn Drummond

    In this episode, Jenn Drummond, a mother of seven, mountaineer, and author of the book "BreakProof," shares her incredible journey of personal transformation that began with a life-threatening car accident in 2018. This near-fatal experience ignited a profound shift in her perspective, leading her to pursue a life of adventure and significance. Jenn talks about her decision to climb mountains, including Mount Everest, and her quest to become the first woman to complete the Seven Second Summits. Throughout the conversation, Jenn emphasizes the importance of living authentically, leveraging one's talents, and embracing life's challenges. Catalyst for Change: Jenn's life took a dramatic turn after a severe car accident in 2018. Rescue workers were astonished that she survived, and this brush with death forced Jenn to reevaluate her life. She realized she was merely going through the motions, living a life that didn't fulfill her. This pivotal event made her understand that while we can't control when we die, we can control how we live. This realization became the foundation for her subsequent adventures and life choices. Authentic Living: Before her accident, Jenn felt lost in her role as a stay-at-home mom, constantly busy but unfulfilled. The accident served as a wake-up call, prompting her to reconnect with her true self and her talents. She realized the importance of living authentically, not based on societal expectations but on her own passions and skills. Jenn's journey underscores the significance of self-awareness and the courage to pursue what genuinely matters to oneself. Pursuing Bold Goals: Jenn's decision to climb mountains, including her pursuit of the Seven Second Summits, exemplifies her commitment to living a life of significance. Inspired by her son's suggestion to climb Mount Everest, Jenn didn't just stop there; her coach challenged her to aim for a world record. This audacious goal aligned with her newfound desire to live boldly and meaningfully. Jenn's story illustrates that setting and pursuing ambitious goals can transform one's life, turning ordinary existence into an extraordinary adventure. Guest Bio: Jenn Drummond, Mom, Mountaineer & Author of BreakProof A car accident in 2018 left Jenn Drummond awestruck and emboldened. Rescue workers couldn’t imagine any scenario where she came out of it alive…but she did. That’s when she realized you don’t get to choose when you leave this life…but you sure can choose how you live it. Strengthened by this awareness, she set out to live more authentically and adventurously. Inspired to climb a mountain for her birthday, her son raised the stakes by suggesting Mount Everest. Not one to back down from a challenge, she accepted the pursuit. During her training, her coach upped the ante and proposed that she go for a World Record and become the first woman to climb the Seven Second Summits. The pursuit matched her desire to live a life of significance, not just success. Today, Jenn is a world record holder who elevates others to master their own summit in life. She’s a successful business owner and Mom of seven remarkable kids who boldly inspire and brazenly challenge her. She’s also an international speaker, author, and Host of the Seek Your Next Summit podcast, focused on inspiring others to go beyond success to a life of significance. Her new book ‘BreakProof’ is available everywhere books are sold. Connect with Jenn Drummond: Website: jenndrummond.comInstagram: thejenndrummondX: thejenndrummondFacebook: a...

    59 min
  6. Blind Ambition: Shifting Perspectives | Chad E. Foster

    AUG 20

    Blind Ambition: Shifting Perspectives | Chad E. Foster

    Special page for listeners from Chad E. Foster - https://chadefoster.com/lifeshift/In this episode, Chad E. Foster shares how he turned his blindness into a catalyst for success and resilience. He shares his compelling journey from losing his sight due to a genetic eye condition to becoming a trailblazer in the business world. He discusses how his experiences have shaped his perspective, the anatomy of resilience he has developed, and the importance of turning obstacles into opportunities. Through heartfelt stories and practical insights, Chad inspires listeners to embrace challenges and cultivate an overcomer mindset. The Power of Resilience Chad Foster's life story is a testament to the power of resilience. Diagnosed with a genetic eye condition at a young age, Chad knew he would eventually lose his sight. Despite the daunting prospect of blindness, he focused on what he could control and developed a resilient mindset. This resilience allowed him to navigate the challenges of losing his sight in college and find new avenues for success. Chad's experience highlights that resilience is not just about enduring hardships but transforming them into strengths that propel you forward. Turning Obstacles into Opportunities One of the most inspiring aspects of Chad's journey is his ability to turn obstacles into opportunities. When he lost his sight, Chad didn't let it deter his ambitions. Instead, he innovated, becoming the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard Business School's leadership program and creating CRM software for the visually impaired. His story illustrates that challenges can be powerful motivators for creativity and progress. By viewing obstacles as opportunities, Chad was able to achieve milestones that seemed impossible. The Importance of Authentic Leadership Throughout the episode, Chad discusses the significance of authentic leadership. He shares how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and genuine connection. Chad's journey through Harvard Business School and his subsequent career taught him that true leadership goes beyond metrics and strategies; it involves connecting with others on a human level. By sharing his own vulnerabilities and challenges, Chad has been able to inspire and lead others more effectively, proving that authenticity is a cornerstone of impactful leadership. About Chad FosterChad E. Foster is a keynote speaker, sales/finance leader, and inspirational change agent at Red Hat/IBM. He was the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard Business School’s Program for Leadership Development. He has been featured with NBC, CBS, Forbes, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, USA Today, and Chief Executive Mag. Despite losing his sight while attending college, Chad built a successful career in the technology industry, directing financial strategies that resulted in more than $45 billion in contracts. He is a billion-dollar revenue generator, a job creator, and a tech innovator. Chad teaches the overcomer mindset using his tried and tested tools to empower people to emerge from setbacks stronger and more resolute to succeed. Chad lives with his wife and two children in Atlanta, GA, and enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and downhill snow skiing. Connect with Chad FosterSpecial page for listeners from Chad E. Foster - https://chadefoster.com/lifeshift/ Website: Chad E. FosterLinkedIn: Chad E....

    1h 2m
  7. Grief and Light After the Unexpected Death of a Sibling | Nina Rodriguez

    AUG 13

    Grief and Light After the Unexpected Death of a Sibling | Nina Rodriguez

    In this episode, Nina Rodriguez shares her journey through grief and healing following her brother's sudden death. She recounts the last moments she spent with her brother, the shock of his unexpected passing, and how this pivotal moment led her to create the "Grief and Light" podcast. Through their discussion, Matt and Nina explore themes of human connection, life's unpredictable nature, and grief's transformative power. The Importance of Human ConnectionNina and Matt delve into how vital it is to maintain authentic human connections, especially in a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions. Nina's story of the spontaneous decision to visit her brother on his birthday and how this simple act of connection became a cherished memory highlights the value of real, face-to-face interactions. It emphasizes how these interactions can leave lasting impacts and provide comfort during times of grief, making the audience feel the value of personal relationships. Navigating the Shock of Sudden LossNina shares the harrowing experience of receiving the news of her brother's sudden death. She describes the immediate shock and surrealism that followed, illustrating how life can change instantly. This section underscores the unpredictability of life and the emotional disconnection that often accompanies sudden loss, providing listeners with a raw and relatable account of dealing with unexpected tragedy. Transforming Grief into PurposeThrough her journey, Nina discovered that grief and joy could coexist. By creating her podcast, "Grief and Light," she found a way to process her own grief while helping others navigate theirs. This takeaway not only emphasizes the transformative power of grief but also the therapeutic power of sharing personal stories. It shows how openness and vulnerability can lead to profound personal and communal healing, making the audience feel the healing potential of such actions. Guest BioNina Rodriguez is the founder and host of the Grief and Light Podcast, which she created after the unexpected loss of her only sibling, Yosef. The podcast authentically explores grief and life after loss. Through each conversation, she aims to give a voice to the griever’s experience and foster a more grief-informed, hopeful world. Beyond the podcast, Nina extends her grief-informed support through monthly circles, personalized mentorship, speaking engagements, active presence on social media, and forthcoming in-person retreats. Connect with NinaWebsite: griefandlight.comInstagram: @griefandlight Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast YouTube: a href="https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 9m
  8. Finding Roots as a Child of German & Jewish Refugees | Dena Rueb Romero

    AUG 6

    Finding Roots as a Child of German & Jewish Refugees | Dena Rueb Romero

    In this episode of "The Life Shift Podcast," Dena Rueb Romero shares her experiences growing up as the child of German Jewish refugees in Hanover, New Hampshire, and the impact of her family's past on her sense of identity and belonging. The conversation delves into themes of loss, resilience, and the search for a sense of rootedness, offering listeners a deeply moving narrative that explores the interplay between personal and collective histories. The Impact of Family History on Personal IdentityDena's narrative illustrates how the traumatic experiences of her parents, both German Jewish refugees, deeply influenced her sense of identity. Growing up, she felt isolated and different from her peers, burdened with the unspoken losses her family endured during the Holocaust. Her parents' resilience and their efforts to shield her from their painful past shaped her understanding of herself and her place in the world. This theme underscores the lasting effects of historical trauma and how personal histories are interwoven with larger historical contexts. The Challenges and Rewards of Writing a Personal MemoirOne of the significant aspects of Dena's journey is her experience writing a book about her family's story. She compares the process to having a baby, acknowledging the immense effort and emotional labor involved. Despite the challenges, Dena found immense joy and catharsis in completing her memoir. It serves not only as a tribute to her family's resilience but also as a means of preserving their legacy. This takeaway highlights the therapeutic potential of writing and the importance of storytelling in processing and honoring one's past. Finding Roots and Connection to Ancestral HeritageA pivotal moment in Dena's story is her visit to the Jewish cemetery in her father's hometown, where she discovers the graves of her great-grandparents. This experience provides her with a profound connection to her ancestors and a deeper understanding of her family's roots. It symbolizes her journey towards finding a sense of belonging and anchoring herself in her heritage. This theme underscores the importance of acknowledging and honoring one's ancestry to ground oneself in the present and foster a sense of connection. Guest BioRetired social worker Dena Rueb Romero grew up in Hanover, New Hampshire. She graduated from Brandeis University, received an MA in English from the University of Virginia, and received an MSW from Boston College Graduate School of Social Work. Her essay about German citizenship was published in a book about reclaiming German citizenship. All for You is her first full-length book. Dena still lives in Hanover, singing in a women’s chorus, volunteering at a daycare center, and working with an organization supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Dena Rueb Romero's Book Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Access ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast Facebook: a href="http://www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast"...

    1h 1m
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What is your pivotal moment? The Life Shift Podcast is a weekly podcast featuring candid conversations with people about the pivotal moments that changed their lives forever. We all have our stories, but through these conversations, we discover communities. We learn that there are commonalities through the ups and downs that we all face. But most importantly, we learn that we are not alone. The Life Shift podcast highlights life-altering moments and humanizes the struggles and triumphs through them all. Hosted by Matt Gilhooly "I want these conversations to feel like eavesdropping on two friends having a human conversation. These are the conversations that we should be having with each other. Below the surface." Please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app, listen to new episodes every Tuesday, and let me know your thoughts about the show. If you enjoy The Life Shift Podcast, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Get access to ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon. www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast For more information, please visit: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

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