Advertise on podcast: SolFul Connections

In this episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Amanda sits down with Steven Wright, author of The Weight I Carried: Hiking Through Grief and Healing on the Appalachian Trail. Steven’s story is one of humility, profound grief, faith, and quiet resilience. Steven shares the deeply painful story of losing his wife, the love of his life, and the immense suffering that followed her passing. He also reflects on childhood trauma and other formative experiences that shaped how he carried grief throughout his life. Through hiking the Appalachian Trail and writing The Weight I Carried, Steven reflects on what it truly means to survive, wrestle with faith, and ultimately return to life after unimaginable loss. This episode is a testament to the power of truth-telling, presence, and taking one step forward even when the weight feels unbearable. Resources & Support:If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, you are not alone. Help is available: Call or text 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.), 24/7, free, confidential For additional support and resources, visit The Liv Project For a copy of the book: https://a.co/d/gQIA48l

In this episode of SolFul Connections, I sit down with Kevin P. Henry and discover a story shaped by a loving childhood, a powerful family truth held quietly for years, and a life deeply intertwined with music, meaning, and humanity.Kevin takes us back to a time many of us remember fondly: listening to full albums, reading liner notes, letting music shape how we understood the world and ourselves. His years as a music journalist aren’t just about sound, they’re about connection, culture, and the stories that live inside songs. Music lovers, this one is especially for you.The conversation explores Kevin’s work in diversity, equity, and trauma-informed spaces, work that is grounded not in theory, but in lived experience, deep listening, and care for people. We talk about family, belonging, and what it means to stay human while doing work that asks a lot of your heart.This episode is a reminder that our stories are layered, that art matters, and that the way we listen (to music and to each other) can change everything.To learn more about Kevin and his work, visit kevinphenry.com.

For more than three decades, Tracy Davidson was a familiar, trusted presence in local news, showing up daily with warmth, professionalism, and calm. Behind the sunny demeanor, she has been living a life of light, purpose, and resilience, finding strength and connection through challenges many would never see. In this episode of SolFul Connections, Tracy steps into a verydifferent role: telling her own story. She reflects on a childhood that included real challenges, the inner strength it took to overcome them, and how those early experiences quietly shaped the way she moves through the world. Tracy shares how authenticity, friendships, and spirituality carried her through life’s trials, including her journey with breast cancer, and how those connections continue to guide her today. Now retired from a decades-long career in broadcast journalism, Tracy is navigating a powerful life pivot, one many of us can relate to. This conversation explores what it feels like to step away from a role that, at least on the outside, defined you, how to sit with uncertainty, and how purpose can evolve rather than disappear. Whether you’re standing at the edge of change, redefining who you are beyond a title, or simply curious about the woman behind the public persona, this episode offers insight, honesty, and light. Why This Conversation Matters At some point, all of us face change: a pivot we didn’t plan for, or a chapter ending we once built our identity around. Tracy’s story reminds us that reinvention isn’t about losing who you were, but living fully into the light, purpose, and resilience that already exist within us. Check out Tracy’s upcoming Programs Virtual: (Jan. 21): https://LiftingYourVoiceJanuaryVirtualEvent.eventbrite.com In-Person Event: https://LiftingYourVoiceMarch2026.eventbrite.com www.tracydavidson.com⁠ About the PodcastSolFul Connections is a podcast about real people and their stories: the ones shaped by challenge, growth, and the search for meaning. Hosted by Amanda Soler, each episode invites honest conversations that help us feel less alone and more connected to ourselves and to one another. Listen & ConnectAvailable on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.Follow SolFul Living for episode highlights: Instagram:@solfuliving Facebook:SolFul Living LinkedIn:SolFul Living

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda connects with Courtney Schulnick, a former litigator who made the bold decision to step away from a fast-paced, successful legal career after experiencing the profound impact mindfulness had on her life. Courtney shares what it was like to live inside a demanding profession, outwardly successful, inwardly disconnected, and how mindfulness helped her reconnect with herself, her values, and a deeper sense of presence and joy. That reconnection ultimately led her to leave the courtroom and pursue a path centered on mindfulness education, yoga therapy, and emotional well-being. Together, Amanda and Courtney explore common misconceptions about mindfulness, including the belief that you need a quiet mind to practice. They discuss how awareness, compassion, and choice can transform how we relate to stress, parenting, and everyday life. Courtney also reflects on midlife transitions, listening to inner wisdom, and what becomes possible when we choose alignment over autopilot. This conversation is for anyone who has ever wondered, “Is there another way to live?” and felt both the fear and the pull toward something more meaningful. Chapters00:00Introduction to Mindfulness and Music04:25Courtney's Journey to Mindfulness11:49Understanding Mindfulness and Its Misconceptions19:54Mindfulness in Parenting25:23The Impact of Mindfulness on Personal Growth31:58Future Aspirations and Mindfulness ProgramsEmbark on your mindfulness journey with Courtney: https://bit.ly/48uuqEdFor more on Courtney: Courtney Schulnick Mindfulness

In this engaging conversation, Blaine Greenfield, known as Chief Encouragement Officer, connects with Amanda on the importance of encouragement, the concept of rewirement instead of retirement, and the significance of pursuing passions and creativity. Blaine discusses the value of relationships, navigating change, and the influence of childhood on career choices. He emphasizes the power of communication, the impact of influential figures in his life, and the importance of truthfulness in discussions. The conversation concludes with his personal mantra for soulful living, one that just might help everyone who listens in to this episode of the SolFul Connections podcast. For more: Blainesworld - Blainesworld.net Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blaine Greenfield 04:07 The Concept of Rewirement 08:30 Pursuing Passion and Creativity 12:17 The Importance of Relationships 17:16 Navigating Change and Identity 21:18 Childhood Influences and Career Choices 24:59 The Power of Communication 28:39 Influential Figures in Blaine's Life 34:07 Pet Peeves and Truthfulness 37:52 Soulful Living and Personal Mantras

What happens when you leave behind a full life to beginagain somewhere new? In this episode of SolFul Connections, I connect with Valentina Escobar-Gonzalez, MBA, international speaker, award-winning social media strategist, and co-author of The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, for a conversation that blends business insight with deep humanity. Valentina shares what it was like to move to a new state:the excitement of possibility paired with the grief of leaving behind people, rhythms, and a version of herself she loved. We talk about how our past experiences don’t disappear when we start over, they come with us, shaping how we show up, lead, and connect. Whether you’re building a business, redefining yourself, or simply standing at the edge of something new, Valentina’s story and insights will resonate.

Guest: Craig Pelkey-LandesWriter | Entrepreneur | Author | Podcast HostFounder of Words Beyond ContentAuthor of A Brief History of White NonsenseHost of the Yell Fire podcast In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda sits down with writer, entrepreneur, and cultural commentator Craig Pelkey-Landes for a thoughtful, honest conversation about race, privilege, responsibility, and inner peace. Craig brings clarity to a topic that is often misunderstood or avoided, what white privilege actually is, how it operates in everyday life, and why understanding it is essential if we truly want to live into the values this country claims to stand for. Beyond the social and political lens, Craig also shares pieces of his personal journey, including how he sustains himself emotionally and spiritually while continuing to “fight the good fight.” This conversation explores the tension between activism and inner calm, burnout and purpose, outrage and hope, and how we can hold all of it without losing ourselves. In this episode, we explore: What white privilege is and what it isn’t Why so many conversations about race miss the mark How language shapes understanding (and misunderstanding) Living your values in a divided culture Finding peace without disengaging from justice How Craig stays grounded while doing hard, necessary work This is a courageous, human conversation - not about blame, but about awareness, responsibility, and possibility. A Brief History of White Nonsense https://www.amazon.com/Brief-History-White-Nonsense-Throughlines/dp/B0CFZCKQQ3/ Yell Fire! Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/4uobpo8DDbLfj16hYFDXQK?si=6412f9257c9e46f1 Yell Fire! on Substackhttps://yellfire.substack.com/

In this moving episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda connects with Manizha Wafeq, the founder of the first Women’s Chamber of Commerce in Afghanistan. Manizha shares what it took to build opportunities for women in a country where leadership came with real risk, and how her childhood, culture, and inner world shaped her vision long before she had language for it. Manizha discusses what it felt like to grow up as a girl in Afghanistan, the role of women and family in her early life, and the quiet strength she carried inside, even in moments of uncertainty. The discussion extends to what courage looks like and how it has evolved as Manizha's life has changed across borders. The conversation also explores loss, identity, and what it means to carry home in your heart while building a life elsewhere. Along the way, Manizha reflects on what lights her up today, the rituals and wisdom that ground her, and the life lessons she’s learned through both hardship and hope. The "SolFul" conversation delves into empowerment, impact, and Manizha's hopes for young girls in Afghanistan and beyond. This episode is a reminder that even in the face of immense challenge, one person’s story can become a doorway for others.

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda sits down with Kelly Schaefer, mom of four, business owner, advocate, and founder of The Concierge Academy and Operation Panda Healing. Kelly’s story didn’t start with privilege or ease. She faced adult responsibilities long before most people do, and the challenges of her early years could have easily written a different ending. Instead, she built a life anchored in possibility, resilience, and fierce belief in what’s possible. Today, she leads a multiple 6-figure concierge business, teaches others how to grow service-based companies, and champions mindset as the foundation for lasting change. Kellyann also shares why empowering women, giving back, and creating community-driven impact remain at the heart of her work. We talk about: How her early experiences shaped the woman she is today The mindset shifts that helped her rise above the odds Building a thriving concierge business that creates opportunity for others Why she believes women rising together creates real transformation This conversation is about resilience, courage, and carving a life you believe in, no matter where you start. For More: The Concierge Academy: Leading Resource for Personal Concierge

Meet Gloria Walker. Gloria is known for her cheerfulness, her professionalism, and her steady presence in every room she enters. She shows up—consistently, prepared, and engaged. But there’s far more to her story than what meets the eye. In this episode of SolFul Connections, Gloria reflects on decades of determined leadership and professional growth through her work with Mary Kay. Her path hasn’t been a straight line but her resolve never wavered. Beneath her composed exterior is a sharp, resilient leader and a woman deeply committed to her faith, her family, and the life she has worked to build. We talk candidly about navigating grief, sustaining a long-term marriage, and how she approaches life’s highs and lows with steadiness and conviction. This is a conversation about perseverance, discipline, and the quiet strength required to keep showing up—especially when the road has been long. To check out Gloria's Mary Kay site: Mary Kay | Official Site

In this powerful episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda sits down with former U.S. Congressman James Greenwood for a grounded and human conversation about leadership, courage, and the responsibility we share in today’s fractured moment in history. Jim reflects on the moral complexities of public service, the bravery required to speak truth in dangerous political climates, and the values that guided him through decades of work centered on children and vulnerable communities, even when it meant standing apart from his own party. But this conversation goes beyond politics. Greenwood opens up about the personal parts of his life: the joy he finds in his family, his love of the natural world, and the soulful escape he discovers through photographing birds, sometimes traveling across the world to capture a single moment of beauty. This is an episode about integrity, purpose, curiosity, and where we find meaning as the world grows noisier and more divided. It’s a reminder that leadership can be principled. That courage might be necessary. And that our stories, when spoken honestly, can help light the way. Click this link for a very special glimpse of James Greenwood's photography: https://jamesgreenwood.zenfolio.com/p940705974

Welcome to SolFul Connections, where we share the stories that shape us. In this episode Judith Zozzaro is a successful corporate leader, a two-time author, and a lifelong seeker of personal growth. She’s now channeling that passion into a new venture designed to support women through meaningful books, workshops, and honest conversations. Judy opens up about the lessons that shaped her, some forged in the corporate world, others rooted in early childhood experiences where many of our deepest beliefs begin. Join us for a thoughtful, heartfelt conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and the courage it takes to turn your own growth into a gift for others. You’ll walk away with insights you can immediately apply to your own life and journey. For more about Judith & her books, visit: Lead with Confidence and Purpose

In this SolFul Connections podcast episode, Amanda talks with Beatriz Victoria Albina, MPH, NP, author of End Emotional Outsourcing, about what it means to reclaim your emotional autonomy. Beatriz shares how so many of us unknowingly give away our emotional power seeking validation, peace, or self-worth from others, and how we can begin to take it back. If you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing, perfectionism, or the need for external approval, this episode offers a compassionate framework for finding your way back to yourself. For more: Book Launch - End Emotional Outsourcing - Beatriz Victoria Albina

In this heartfelt episode of SolFul Connections,Amanda sits down with best friends Cheryl and Todd to explore the rare and beautiful gift of deep, supportive, and honest friendship. Their story is one of mutual respect, laughter, and trust, afriendship that defies easy labels and reminds us what it means to truly see and be seen. Cheryl and Todd share how their bond began, how it’s grown over the years, and how they navigate life, work, and connection as a man and awoman in the business world. They open up about: The friendship spark that drew them to one another &  how their friendship has evolved The power of honesty, vulnerability, and humor in keeping their connection strong How they balance friendship with life, their families, and career What true friendship means to them — and how it sustains them through life’s challenges This conversation is a warm reminder that friendships likethese don’t just happen, they’re built on intention, trust, and genuine care. Whether you’ve had a friend who’s felt like family or you’restill searching for that kind of connection, this episode will leave you smiling, reflecting, and maybe even reaching out to your own “person.” Listen in and feel the magic of what it means to liveand connect SolFully.

In this episode of SolFul Connections, I talk with Laurie about her new calling as an End of Life Doula, a role rooted in compassion, courage, and connection. Laurie shares her hope to bring dignity and comfort to all as they approach life’s next stage, including those in our unhoused community, who often lack support and companionship at the end of life. We also talk about her fascinating, matriarchal childhood, her successful professional journey, and what has guided her to this moment of rediscovery and purpose. What stays with me most is Laurie’s vitality, her excitement, and openness to this new chapter of her life is a beautiful reminder that our journeys can keep unfolding, no matter our age or stage. Her warmth in talking about death isn’t heavy, it’s actually an invitation: to speak more openly, love more fully, and approach life’s hardest topics with both bravery and tenderness. For More: www.transitiondoulas.com