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Text or voice message the show Sometimes we think of service as one more thing to add to an already full calendar. But what if meaningful service could become a natural part of the life we're already living? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson welcomes Melissa Draper, host of the Do Something More podcast, for a thoughtful conversation about everyday kindness, acting on good intentions, and finding meaningful ways to make a difference. Through her podcast, Melissa shares stories of people and organizations doing good in their communities. Her conversations have helped her recognize that there's no single right way to serve—and that our individual experiences, relationships, and abilities often give us unique opportunities to help. Together, Anne and Melissa explore: Why meaningful service doesn't have to involve a major project or commitment.Three simple ways to make serving others part of everyday life.How kind words and small gestures can help someone feel seen and valued.Why acting on a compassionate thought can feel vulnerable—and how service becomes easier with practice.How our personal struggles can help us recognize and respond to the needs of others.The lasting influence of parents, families, and the people who show us how to love through their example.Melissa also shares the influence of her parents, including her father's ability to make strangers feel loved and her mother's example of advocating for others and caring for her husband through dementia. A question to carry with you: Is there a kind thought you've had about someone that you haven't yet shared? About Melissa Draper Melissa Draper is the host of Do Something More, a podcast highlighting organizations and ordinary people making a difference through service. Listen to her podcast by searching for Do Something More on your favorite podcast app. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/do-something-more-nonprofit-spotlights-ways-to-serve/id1676139918  Youtube & Instagram: @dosomethingmore.podcast Facebook: @dosomethingmorepodcast Support Pebbles of Light If these conversations have meant something to you, you can find ways to help support the podcast here: https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Jess Southfield has spent a lot of years learning that loving ten children well doesn't mean parenting ten children exactly the same way. In this conversation, Jess and Anne talk about the pressure to look like you have family life figured out, the grace that comes from realizing you don't, and the shift from focusing primarily on behavior to thinking more deeply about relationship. Jess shares why she wants her children to know that even when she is frustrated or disappointed, their mistakes don't change how she feels about them as human beings. They also talk about discovering ADHD as adults, the coping systems we can build without realizing it, the importance of small family traditions, and Jess's experience of wishing she could return to the early years of motherhood with everything she knows now. The conversation moves into grief as Jess remembers losing her dad to stomach cancer at 48 and the small traditions that continue to connect him with grandchildren who had very little time with him. Jess and Anne also have an honest conversation about Jess's decision to step away from the church community they once shared—and what has allowed their friendship to remain intact. Rather than trying to convince one another to leave or stay, they talk about respecting each other's agency, recognizing loving intent while still setting boundaries, and remembering that a person's value is not dependent upon making the same choices we do. In this episode: Releasing the pressure to look like the “perfect” familyParenting individual children according to what they needWhy relationship matters before correctionHelping siblings support one another without requiring agreementAdult ADHD and realizing you've built a life of coping mechanismsBecoming more present with the people you loveFamily traditions that help children feel individually knownLooking back on the early years of motherhoodRecognizing strength inside traits we sometimes label as defianceGrief and keeping a parent's memory aliveNavigating a faith transition without losing meaningful friendshipsRespect, agency, boundaries, and giving grace in both directionsA question to carry with you Rather than asking whether you handled every interaction perfectly, consider asking: How did this person feel in my presence? That question may tell us more about our influence than perfection ever could. Guest Jess Southfield Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/afullnestbyjess/ Support Pebbles of Light If Pebbles of Light has brought something meaningful into your week, you can support the podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show When Laura Bratton began losing her sight as a teenager, she wasn’t asking, “Why me?” She was asking, “How am I going to get through this?” In this conversation, Laura talks candidly about the grief, anxiety, identity changes, and uncertainty that accompanied her gradual vision loss—and the practices that eventually helped her build a life within a reality she never would have chosen. One of the most important was self-compassion. Instead of demanding that she be positive or telling herself she should be handling things better, Laura began learning to acknowledge a simpler truth: this was hard, and it made sense that it felt hard. Laura and Anne also explore the relationship between grit and gratitude, why gratitude does not require calling the difficult thing a blessing, the role laughter can play after we have had time to grieve, and why moving forward does not mean grief has ended. Laura shares two stories from her time as a hospital chaplain that beautifully illustrate how an experience she would never have chosen still allowed her to connect with people in unexpected ways. The conversation also touches on faith, identity, vulnerability, and one three-minute conversation with a college administrator that gave Laura permission to grieve for the rest of her life. In this episode: Losing sight gradually during adolescenceGrieving not only vision, but ordinary teenage experiencesWhy self-compassion became one of Laura’s most important toolsGrit as acknowledging pain and still moving forwardWhy the difficult thing itself does not have to be a blessingFinding gratitude within circumstances we would still changeThe healing role of humor and laughterMoving beyond shame and becoming comfortable with a “new normal”Faith as a grounding source of identity and worthWhy change does not make us “less than”Giving ourselves permission to grieve again—even years laterThis Episode’s Pebble Is there something you’ve been telling yourself you should already be over? Consider giving yourself permission to acknowledge that it still hurts without treating that grief as evidence that you have failed to move forward. Connect with Laura Laura Bratton: https://LauraBratton.com Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show What happens when someone who has struggled deeply with reading and writing begins asking whether the problem is not intelligence or effort—but the way the learning process itself has been designed? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne talks with dyslexia researcher Russell Van Brocklin about his own experience navigating education with significant reading and writing difficulties, the academic experience that became a turning point for him, and the work that followed. Russell describes receiving extensive accommodations during a New York State Assembly internship, only to later have his academic grade changed to failing by his university. He shares how that experience helped set the direction for his later work in dyslexia research and education. The conversation explores Russell’s belief that many dyslexic learners function more like specialists than generalists. He explains why he focuses heavily on a learner’s area of intense interest during intervention and describes his approach to writing, reading, vocabulary, word analysis, articulation, and moving from highly specific ideas toward broader understanding. Russell also walks through practical examples involving children he has worked with and shares student outcomes that he attributes to his methods. Anne and Russell also discuss ADHD, the different ways learning struggles can appear in boys and girls, motivation, frustration, self-confidence, and what can happen when a child begins to experience themselves as capable rather than continually behind. And at the end of the episode, Russell reflects on two educators who became “pebbles of light” in his own life—people whose influence helped shape the work he ultimately chose to pursue. In This Episode Russell’s personal experience with dyslexia and higher educationThe academic experience that pushed him toward dyslexia researchWhy he describes dyslexic learners as specialistsWorking from a child’s strongest interestsUsing writing as a measurable way to organize ideasRussell’s approach to word analysis and articulationHelping students recognize grammar through reading aloudVocabulary development through definitions and synonymsLearning differences and motivationADHD and why some girls’ struggles may be easier to missConfidence, identity, and the social side of learning challengesThe educators who profoundly influenced Russell’s pathA Note for Listeners Russell shares his own research, educational framework, and reported student outcomes throughout this conversation. These claims and approaches are presented as his perspective and experience. Families making decisions about dyslexia, ADHD, special education, or learning interventions may wish to consider a range of qualified educational and clinical resources for their individual situation. Connect With Russell Website mentioned in the episode: dyslexicclasses.com Additional resource mentioned by Russell: Skool — search “Dyslexia Classes” [Add any confirmed social media links here] Support Pebbles of Light If these conversations bring something meaningful into your week, you can support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show What does it mean to love someone enough to let them go? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne sits down with Jody Hudson—author, advocate, and founder of the Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation—to reflect on a decade-long journey through her daughter Alex’s illness, the uncertainty of a medical mystery, and the sacred moment that changed everything. This conversation explores grief, faith, resilience, and the quiet ways people we love continue to guide us—even after they’re gone. Jody shares how Alex’s strength and compassion reshaped her understanding of purpose, and how loss can become something that leads us toward deeper connection and service. If you’ve ever faced a long season of uncertainty, or wondered how to move forward after loss, this episode offers a grounded and honest perspective. In this episode:  Navigating uncertainty as a parent  The emotional toll of unanswered diagnoses  Faith during prolonged hardship  The meaning of “letting go”  Signs, memory, and ongoing connection  Turning grief into purpose and advocacy Connect with Jody: Website: https://www.alexhudsonlimefoundation.org Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Can curiosity deepen faith rather than threaten it? Doug Ell is an MIT-trained mathematician and former atheist who describes spending more than three decades examining questions at the intersection of science and belief. In this conversation, Doug shares the experiences that first led him away from faith, the unexpected moment that caused him to reconsider what he believed, and why he eventually began looking to science itself as part of his search for God. Doug and Anne talk about DNA, the apparent fine-tuning of physical constants, the origins of life, beauty in the natural world, and the questions Doug believes point toward design and a Creator. These ideas represent Doug’s interpretation of the scientific evidence, and throughout the conversation he explains why asking questions became more important to him than winning arguments. But the conversation also reaches beyond science. Doug reflects on raising young people in a culture of comparison, the “counterfeit gods” of money, status, appearance, and power, and why he believes faith can give people a deeper sense of identity and worth. And when Anne asks about the people who have placed Pebbles of Light in his path, Doug remembers a high school math teacher who helped him recognize what he was capable of—a quiet reminder that sometimes one person seeing potential in us can change the direction of a life. In this episode: Doug’s journey from childhood faith to atheism and backWhy becoming a father became an unexpected spiritual turning pointThe questions Doug believes connect science and beliefDNA, biological complexity, and the idea of designFine-tuning and the deeper question of why anything existsApproaching difficult conversations with questions instead of argumentsHelping young people build identity beyond money, status, and comparisonThe teacher who helped Doug recognize his own potentialWhy curiosity does not necessarily have to pull us away from meaningThis Episode’s Pebble Notice something small this week—a pattern, a detail, or something in the natural world you normally overlook—and allow yourself a quiet moment of wonder. Learn more about Doug Ell Counting to God: https://countingtogod.com The God Proofs: https://thegodproofs.com Doug also mentions his MIT presentation, which can be found by searching “Doug Ell MIT” on YouTube. Support Pebbles of Light If these conversations mean something to you and you’d like to help support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show When Life Doesn’t Follow the Script Anne Maxson talks with Rachel Kennington about resilience, faith, and the ways a meaningful life can unfold differently than expected. Rachel shares how her understanding of purpose shifted when marriage and motherhood did not happen on the timeline she once imagined, and how serving a mission, pursuing education, and choosing to love others shaped the life she has now. Key topics Rachel introduces herself as a devoted daughter, aunt, loyal employee, and someone who loves quilting, reading, and creating for others.She reflects on the childhood vision she once had - wife, mother, porch, white picket fence - and how that picture changed over time.Rachel shares how growing up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shaped her early expectations, but not with the pressure to follow a single path.Serving a mission at 21 became a turning point that broadened her perspective, changed her relationship to education, and helped her see a different kind of impact.She talks about choosing joy in the present instead of waiting for life to become perfect first.Rachel describes how she became “Aunt Rachel” to her nieces and nephews, and how that role expanded into being a trusted, loving presence for friends’ children too.She shares her experience serving in the Young Women Organization, mentoring teens and helping them prepare for unexpected life changes.Her career path evolved from billing work to leadership in member support, showing how education, mentors, and faith opened doors she had not planned for.Rachel names the people who influenced her most, including Charles Dalquist, Zella Dalquist, Troy Bechert, and Scott Slivka.The conversation ends with Rachel offering advice for anyone grieving a life that looks different than expected: reflect honestly, ask God for guidance, and be willing to take action.Timestamps (0:00) Introduction to Rachel and the theme of a life that changes course  (0:36) Rachel introduces herself and the things she loves  (2:29) The life Rachel imagined as a young girl  (3:48) Growing up with family-centered expectations  (5:08) Realizing her original plan may not happen  (6:58) Choosing to serve a mission and seeing her path differently  (10:12) Learning that fulfillment is not tied to external milestones  (11:05) Finding “the adventure” and choosing happiness now  (13:26) Becoming an aunt-like presence to nieces, nephews, and friends’ children  (15:12) Showing up through everyday support, including teaching a niece to drive  (19:03) Mentoring teens in Young Women and preparing them for unexpected futures  (21:00) Watching one young woman grow from quietness to serving a mission in Cambodia  (23:39) Rachel’s education and career path from Utah State to member support leadership  (28:34) The lesson: be the best at the job you have today  (30:27) Looking back and seeing that God was present throughout the journey  (33:26) Learning to let go of total control and trust the path  (35:24) Advice for listeners whose lives are not turning out as planned  (38:39) Pebbles of light from Charles and Zella Dalquist, Troy Bechert, and Scott Slivka  (44:34) Closing Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson sits down with H. Jackson Calame for a conversation about service, faith, contrast, and the way life’s difficult or humbling moments can shape a larger sense of purpose. Jackson shares how growing up between very different home environments gave him early exposure to both peace and pain. He reflects on learning to “sell peace” as a child, watching different examples of fatherhood, and deciding what kind of life he wanted to build. He also shares how his mission in Uruguay changed the way he saw poverty, privilege, education, business, and service. A central thread in this conversation is Jackson’s guiding question: how can I serve the person in front of me as best I can? From learning to speak about love on his mission to building businesses and teams with a larger vision, Jackson’s story reminds us that service is not always grand or complicated. Sometimes it looks like planning well, noticing someone in need, giving what we can, or choosing to keep going when the path feels overwhelming. Anne and Jackson also talk about imposter syndrome, faith in the effort rather than the outcome, the lessons missions can teach about business and discipline, and the quiet ripple effects of small acts of kindness. In this episode, we talk about: Learning to communicate love even when words are limitedGrowing up with contrast and choosing a different pathHow poverty and perspective shaped Jackson’s business visionWhy sales, at its best, can be a form of serviceThe difference between goals and standardsImposter syndrome and remembering our divine worthPlanning with faith, even when the plan changesThe small acts of kindness that may matter more than we realizeThe people and teams who become “family” as we build meaningful workThis Episode’s Pebble Take a few minutes this week to notice the person in front of you. It might be someone at home, at work, in a grocery line, or in your community. Ask yourself, “How can I serve this person as best I can?” Then do one small, sincere thing. Guest Information Learn more about Jackson and his work: Vision Pros Live: visionproslive.com First Class Business: firstclassbusiness.io Oportunidades Latinas: oportunidadeslatinas.com Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show What happens when we choose to truly see someone—not for their past, but for their potential? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne sits down with Norma Jaeger, Executive Director of Recovery Idaho, to explore the intersection of justice and mercy, the realities of addiction and incarceration, and the quiet power of dignity. Drawing from decades of experience in substance use treatment, criminal justice reform, and recovery advocacy, Norma shares stories that challenge assumptions and invite deeper understanding. From women leaving incarceration with nothing but the clothes on their backs to moments of profound human connection in treatment courts, this conversation highlights how small acts of recognition can change the trajectory of a life. Together, Anne and Norma reflect on: What it means to “see the unseen”The balance between justice and mercyThe realities of reentry for women after incarcerationHow dignity and belonging shape recoverySimple ways we can slow down and notice othersAt its core, this episode is a reminder: people are more than the worst thing they’ve done—and being seen can be the beginning of something new. Resources & Links: A film that Norma helped produce, “I Married the War” on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4sEEbHD  Justserve - https://www.justserve.org/  Salvation Army - https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/volunteer/  St. Vincent de Paul - https://ssvpusa.org/  Boise Rescue Mission - https://boiserm.org/get-involved/  💛 Support the Show: If you’d like to support Pebbles of Light, you can do so through Buzzsprout https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support 🎧 Listen to the full episode: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BsMFWIg6KKrj6inrlkxai Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pebbles-of-light/id1534389323 Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show What if the hardest moments in life are actually invitations to grow? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson sits down with Michele Kehrer, author of Brave Shift. Michele shares how unexpected challenges—including four cancer diagnoses—became catalysts for powerful personal transformation. Through stories of resilience, mindset shifts, and the courage to embrace change, Michele explains how even life’s most difficult detours can help us reconnect with what truly matters. In this conversation, we explore: • Why people often stay in the “unhappy known” • How fear and excitement are often separated by breath • Why expressing emotions is essential for healing • The surprising lessons Michele learned while writing her book • How gratitude and nature can help shift perspective • The importance of genuine conversations and human connection Michele’s story reminds us that transformation doesn’t require changing everything at once—sometimes it begins with just one brave shift. Connect with Michele Michele’s Website - https://michelekehrer.com/Facebook - @michele.kehrerX - @balancemk1 Instagram - @balancemicheleLinkedIn - @michelekehrerResources: Michele’s Book, Brave Shift - https://amzn.to/4vIuWbk Adam Brownlie’s Book, Happypedia - https://amzn.to/4vIuWbk Episode with Adam Brownlie - Why Happiness Isn't Just a Choice Episode with Mason Orr who served a mission in Japan - Letting God Shape Your JourneyCalvin Bagley’s Book, “Hiding from the School Bus” - https://amzn.to/4tlEkzX Episode with Calvin Bagley -  Emerging from Hiding and Living a Life that MattersSupport the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show What if happiness isn’t something we choose—but something we cultivate? In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson sits down with Australian author and philosopher Adam Brownlie to explore the deeper science and psychology behind happiness. Adam shares insights from his book Happypedia, where he outlines six essential pillars of happiness: FoodSleepMovementSocial connectionNoveltyHopeTogether, Anne and Adam discuss how our past experiences shape our decisions, why hope is essential for mental health, and why forgiving ourselves may be one of the most important steps toward peace. You’ll also hear insights on: Why happiness isn’t simply a choiceThe role of brain chemistry in well-beingHow new experiences can spark hopeWhy self-forgiveness is often harder than forgiving othersThe balance between ambition and gratitudeIf you’ve ever wondered why happiness sometimes feels out of reach—or how to let go of past mistakes—this conversation offers a thoughtful and hopeful perspective. Learn More About Adam Brownlie Connect with Adam: Adam’s Book, Happypedia - https://amzn.to/4uimGhc  Website - https://adambrownlie.com.au/  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whistler570/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adam.brownlie.902  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-brownlie-a443031b/ Other Resources: Russell M. Nelson, Joy and Spiritual Survival “The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.” https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2016/10/joy-and-spiritual-survival?lang=eng  Insights on the importance of simplicity from Steven Shumway in this talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4mvKO1IUSg  Listen to Pebbles of Light Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BsMFWIg6KKrj6inrlkxai Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pebbles-of-light/id1534389323 Support the Show Support the podcast through Buzzsprout using the links in the show notes. Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Ep 41: Emerging From Hiding and Living a Life that Matters || Calvin Bagley What are you hiding? In this powerful episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson sits down with entrepreneur and author Calvin Bagley, whose early life was shaped by isolation, lack of formal education, and deep personal struggle. As a child, Calvin literally hid from the school bus because his parents refused to send their children to school. But that’s only the beginning of his story. From teaching himself to read to earning a GED at 21, attending college, becoming a successful entrepreneur, and eventually writing the bestselling memoir Hiding from the School Bus, Calvin’s journey is one of resilience, faith, and transformation. In this conversation, Calvin shares: What it meant to grow up hiding from the school busHow learning to read changed his lifeThe turning points that reshaped his faithHis unconventional path to college and entrepreneurshipThe process of healing from trauma and learning that “the storm is over”Why telling his story helped him—and others—stop hidingThis episode is a powerful reminder that our past does not define our future, and that transformation often begins the moment we choose honesty and courage. About the Guest Calvin Bagley is an entrepreneur in the healthcare and financial services industry and the founder of multiple companies serving Medicare beneficiaries across the United States. He is also the author of the bestselling memoir Hiding from the School Bus, which shares his journey from a childhood without education to building a life of purpose, leadership, and faith. Connect with Calvin: Calvin’s Book, Hiding from the School Bus - https://amzn.to/4scqYoQ  Website - https://hidingfromtheschoolbus.com/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvinbagley/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/calvinbagley/  Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/calvinbagley  X - https://x.com/calvinbagley  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/calvinbagley/  Other Resources: Look at You Now - https://youtu.be/P_aCPBHhoQk?si=vnO_PAkwC3FTvlT1  Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Ep 40: It’s Always Too Soon to Quit || Jay Setchell What happens when life knocks you down — not once, but over and over again? In this powerful episode of Pebbles of Light, Jay Setchell shares his extraordinary story of resilience. Jay’s life is a testimony to faith, perseverance, and personal responsibility. His mantra — “If it is to be, it is up to me” — became the foundation that carried him through life-altering injuries, rehabilitation, and rebuilding his life again and again. We discuss: How to shift from victim mindset to personal responsibilityThe power of vision in recovery and physical therapyThe difference between faith, belief, and hopeWhy serving others strengthens us during our own trialsHow adversity can refine — not define — usJay is the author of The Strength Within You: It’s Always Too Soon to Quit, a #1 ranked book on attitude and motivation through physical disability. Connect with Jay: Website: https://neverquittrying.com Jay’s Book: The Strength Within You: It’s Always Too Soon to Quit  https://amzn.to/4sfg7L3  Resources: “Tested, Proved & Polished” by Henry B. Eyring - https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/51eyring?lang=eng Episode 23 with Myrna Peterson - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5y7aw8qbGsUj0oca5oAWkC?si=RzAiS5QsQHWlsMVxN1PJQA  Listen to Pebbles of Light: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BsMFWIg6KKrj6inrlkxai Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pebbles-of-light/id1534389323 ✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Ep 39: Celebrating Those Who Show Up || Liz Watt In this inspiring episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne Maxson sits down with Liz Watt, author, speaker, and co-founder of Be Healthy Utah, one of the largest natural health conferences in the western United States. Liz shares her deeply personal journey through chronic inflammation, burnout, emotional healing, and what she calls “whole self leadership.” From selling only 147 tickets weeks before her first conference… to welcoming 3,500 attendees years later… Liz reminds us that success isn’t about numbers—it’s about intention, resilience, and serving the one. You’ll learn: Why “Don’t mourn the 1,100” became her leadership mantraHow emotional healing impacts physical healthWhat Whole Self Leadership really meansThe THRIVE framework for sustainable growthHow to persevere when everything feels like it’s falling apart 🔗 Connect with Liz: Website: https://BeHealthyUtah.com Free Book: Healthy Gut, Healthy Mind, Healthy Life: A Healthy Approach to the Microbiome Liz’s Book, Becoming Me - A Polygamist Girl’s Journey to New Beginnings: https://amzn.to/4sd4Hr0  Speaking: https://ElizabethAnneWatt.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-watt-22321619a/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizwattspeaks  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizwatt  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liz.watt1  If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a reminder to keep going. Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠

Text or voice message the show Ep 38: Finding Both Success and Fulfillment || Alan Lazaros In this episode of Pebbles of Light, Anne sits down with Alan Lazaros, founder and CEO of Next Level University, to explore what it truly means to win the “game of life.” After surviving a near-fatal car accident at 26 — echoing the loss of his father at age two — Alan shifted from climbing the corporate ladder to pursuing deeper fulfillment. Today, he leads a global coaching and podcasting organization and shares a powerful framework called the “Four Buckets”: • Unsuccessful & Unfulfilled • Successful & Unfulfilled • Fulfilled but Broke • Fulfilled & Successful Together, Anne and Alan unpack: The difference between transactional and transformational growthWhy success alone often leads to emptinessThe role of regret in awakening purposeLeadership, credibility, and personal responsibilityWhy fulfillment must align with sustainabilityThis episode is for anyone who feels successful on paper but unsettled in spirit. 🔗 Connect with Alan: Website: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com Instagram: @alanlazaros Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NextLevelUniversity Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – ⁠https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight⁠YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight⁠Instagram – ⁠https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight⁠Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support ⁠⁠