Sparks of Gratitude

Randy Sparks
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Aug 25, 2025 • 54min

Hidden beauty of caregiving and grief - Robin Weeks

Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, host Randy Sparks talks with Robin Weeks, Founder of My Pivotal Point, Certified Caregiver Coach, and Grief Facilitator. Robin shares her unexpected journey into caregiving after losing her father and brother, and how it reshaped her perspective on grief, identity, and gratitude.🔥 You’ll learn💡 What caregiving really means🧠 The many forms of grief beyond loss🌱 How caregiving reshapes identity and purpose💬 Why grief can be a lifelong companion🙏 The hidden beauty and gratitude in caregivingWhether you’re a caregiver, navigating grief, or simply looking for hope and perspective in life’s hardest moments, this conversation offers wisdom, empathy, and inspiration.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:35 - The Meaning Behind “My Pivotal Point”04:50 - Robin’s Common Thread: Coaching, Caregiving & Purpose08:25 - How Robin Unexpectedly Became a Caregiver21:25 - How Robin Unexpectedly Became a Caregiver27:25 - Walking Through Her Mother’s Final Days29:18 - The grief journey: types of grief beyond losing a loved one32:38 - Identity loss after caregiving ends39:19 - How society misunderstands grief42:02 - Embracing grief as a companion43:58 - Stories & Lessons from Others’ Grief Journeys48:31 - The Beauty in Caregiving: Finding Gratitude in Hardship53:00 - Learn More at https://mypivotalpoint.com/ Follow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Aug 11, 2025 • 49min

59. Flip the Gratitude Switch: How to Turn Life’s Frustrations into Happiness - Kevin Clayson

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks welcomes Kevin Clayson, author of Flip the Gratitude Switch, professional speaker, and Co-Founder of DFY, for a powerful conversation on transforming life’s frustrations into fuel for happiness and growth. From moments of deep personal struggle to rebuilding life and business with purpose, Kevin shares how active gratitude became the key to rewiring his mindset, shifting perspective, and creating lasting joy.🔥 You’ll learn:💡 The F.L.I.P. formula for turning frustration into gratitude 🧠 How gratitude rewires your brain for positivity 🌪 Why challenges are the ultimate training ground for growth 🛠 Practical exercises to find the “awesome in the awful” 💬 Real-life stories of how gratitude can save and change livesWhether you’re navigating hardship, seeking a mindset reset, or simply wanting more joy in your daily life, this episode offers heartfelt stories, actionable strategies, and the reminder that gratitude isn’t just something you feel, it’s something you do.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:58 - How Gratitude Saved Kevin’s Life10:28 - Story from the Rehab & Recovery Center16:28 - Why Gratitude Works for Everyone20:50 - The Flip Formula: Kevin breaks down his F.L.I.P. method30:47 - Audience Exercise: Stubbing Your Toe38:19 - Discomfort Creates Growth40:57 - Meditative & Prayerful Gratitude Practices45:26 - Gratitude’s Neurological ImpactFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jul 27, 2025 • 54min

⁠The Positivity Model: Your Inner GPS for Growth - Jade Sterling

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks welcomes Women’s Health Coach and Positivity Practitioner Jade Sterling for a powerful conversation on healing from the inside out. From hitting rock bottom to igniting her “internal pilot light,” Jade shares how gratitude, breathwork, and reframing thoughts helped her reclaim peace, connection, and purpose.🔥 You’ll learn:🧭 How the Positivity Model can shift your mindset in real time💡 Why gratitude is the most powerful nervous system regulator🌪 What it means to find the “awesome in the awful”🧠 How thoughts shape emotion—and how to flip them👩‍⚕️ How Jade integrates nursing, coaching, yoga, and motherhood to support women through perimenopauseWhether you're overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or simply looking for a mindset reset, this episode delivers heartfelt tools, deep insight, and the reminder that you have the power to choose peace—no matter the storm.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:00 - What It Feels Like to Be Jade Sterling08:46 - Discovering the Power of Positivity10:55 - The Power of Awareness and Thoughts14:18 - Tools: Positivity Model and Flip the Gratitude Switch19:17 - Case Study: Menopause, Anxiety, and Inbox Panic21:05 - The GPS Analogy: Where Are You Now?31:04 - Evaluation + Creation = Empowered Living33:21 - Wayne Dyer Wisdom: Change the Way You Look at Things36:00 - From Reaction to Response: Creating the Gap38:01 - From Nurse to Empowerment Coach: The Career Journey41:03 - Psychology Meets Biology: A Missing Link in Healthcare45:04 - The Smoking Conflict: Shame, Love, and Reconnection48:28 - Gratitude as a Relationship Bridge52:54 - Gratitude Saves LivesFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jul 12, 2025 • 28min

From Grief to Grace: Megan Fate Marshman’s Journey | EP 57

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with Christian author and speaker Megan Fate Marshman to explore how gratitude can transform even the deepest grief. Megan opens up about losing her husband to a heart attack and shares vulnerable insights from her book Relaxed: Walking with the One Who Is Not Worried About a Thing. 🔥 You’ll learn:🌿 How grief can become a doorway to gratitude 🙏 What true surrender looks like in hard seasons 🧠 Why can’t you feel anxiety and gratitude at the same time 📖 Biblical truths from 1 Thessalonians 5 and James 1💡 How negative emotions—like shame, insecurity, and apathy—can point us toward God's heart Whether you're struggling with loss, anxiety, or seeking a deeper connection with God, this episode offers practical wisdom, emotional depth, and spiritual encouragement.Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 03:46 - Grief as a Doorway to Gratitude 08:17 - Surrender: From Letting Go to Opening Up 15:38 - Discovering Self Through Pain and Grief 19:53 - Scripture: Give Thanks in All Circumstances (1 Thess. 5:16–18) 21:24 - James 1: Pure Joy in Trials – What Does That Mean? 25:12 - Philippians 4:6–7 – Gratitude, Prayer, and God's Peace 27:52 - Where to Find Megan: meganfate.comFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jun 30, 2025 • 59min

What is Human AI? “We, Humans” author - Ruchi Shah | EP 56

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks welcomes Ruchi Shah, an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist, intuitive coach, and creator of the groundbreaking book We Humans. Together, they unravel one of the most universal questions of our time: Why is humaning so difficult?Ruchie shares how leaving corporate life led her to a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly successful. Instead of chasing titles or money, she now values time, kindness, connection, and purpose. Through her book We Humans, she helps us explore who we are, who we’re becoming, and why inner awareness and surrender can lead to real strength.🔥 You’ll learn: ✔️ The difference between inner voice and inner noise—and how to listen well ✔️ Why approval must come from within, not the outside world ✔️ How gratitude helps close the painful gap between what is and what could beIf you've ever struggled with identity, burnout, relationships, or simply finding stillness in the chaos, this episode will speak straight to your heart.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:50 - Experiencing the Book “We Humans”03:23 - “Why is Humaning So Difficult?”12:05 - The Voice vs The Noise14:11 - The Power of Pause and Stillness18:28 - Seeking Approval Outside vs Trusting the Inner Self21:29 - Letting Go of Control and Assumptions30:26 - Awareness AI: Attention to Intention34:45 - The Gap Between What Is vs. What Can Be42:31 - The Power of Gratitude in Relationships50:24 - Identity: Who Am I?55:37 - What’s Next for Humaness?Follow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jun 16, 2025 • 50min

A Heart 2 Help - Making it Easy to Help Others - Brian Coleman

Send us a textIn this deeply moving episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, we welcome Brian Coleman—healthcare veteran, purpose-driven leader, and the heart behind A Heart 2 Help, a global care-sharing app connecting those in need with those ready to serve. With over 33 years in surgical healthcare and a life shaped by quiet sacrifices, Brian shares the profound story behind his mission: to create a world where kindness is as accessible as technology.Together, they explore the emotional cost of being “the strong one,” the ripple effect of small acts of service, and the belief that no one should struggle in silence, especially when a helping hand may be just a tap away.🔥 You’ll learn: ✔️ How a moment of witnessing his mother’s hidden pain changed Brian’s life forever ✔️ Why real help starts with intention, not perfection ✔️ How A Heart to Help is shifting the way we give, receive, and connectWhether you’re someone who longs to give back or someone quietly in need of support, this conversation is a powerful reminder that compassion is a calling we all carry.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction03:15 - What is A Heart 2 Help?05:08 - How the App Works: Getting and Giving Help08:09 - Growing a Global Community of Kindness10:02 - First Major Story: Helping a Man in Pakistan14:48 - Why People Struggle to Know How to Help17:10 - The Story That Changed Brian: Seeing His Mom Cry24:52 - Conversations with His Mom, Looking Back with Gratitude28:12 - Being the One Everyone Leans On – But Where Do You Go?31:15 - Choosing the Air Force & Becoming a Surgical Tech36:45 - How Gratitude Shows Up in the Operating Room40:12 - Heart-Wrenching Stories: Children, Gratitude, and Resilience44:32 - Building A Heart 2 Help – The Vision Becomes Reality48:08 - Kindness as a Ripple EffectFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jun 9, 2025 • 56min

The only way out is IN: Innsaei the art of Intuition - Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir

Send us a textIn this soul-stirring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, we welcome Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir—an Icelandic author, filmmaker, speaker, and visionary behind InnSæi, the global movement and documentary exploring the deep power of intuition. With a career spanning over 30 diverse roles—from UN leader in post-war Kosovo to poet and activist—Hrund shares her deeply personal story of burnout, healing, and how reconnecting with the "sea within" transformed her life and mission.Together, they dive into the intersections of trauma, intuition, nature, and the urgent need to reclaim our inner wisdom in a hyper-rational world.🔥 You’ll learn: ✔️ What InnSæi really means—and why it matters now more than ever ✔️ How to reconnect with your body’s wisdom and intuitive intelligence ✔️ Why trauma, when processed, becomes a gateway to growth ✔️ How gratitude and presence can rewire your perspective—and your future ✔️ The role of nature and co-regulation in emotional healingWhether you’re navigating change, burnout, or simply seeking deeper clarity—this episode offers both poetic insight and grounded guidance for the journey within.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction03:20 - What Is Intuition? A Deeper Understanding07:40 - The Disconnect Between Mind and Body 13:40 - Personal Breakdown & The Wake-Up Call17:28 - Neuroscience and Co-Regulation in Human Connection20:56 - Nature, Intuition & the Sea Within24:21 - Nature’s Role in Healing32:41 - What Is InnSæi? The Icelandic Word Unpacked41:48 - Randy’s in the Role of Gratitude and Personal Practices44:00 - Breathwork as a Path to Presence and Intuition47:00 - Honoring the ‘C Within’: Flow, Intuition, and Impact50:25 - Being Seen, Belonging, and the Power of Connection53:41 - Book called InnSæi release Info 55:00 - Gratitude, Presence, and Changing the WorldFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 4min

Identity, Failure and Purpose - Scott Wozniak

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with Scott Wozniak—CEO of Swoz Consulting, former Chick-fil-A executive, global leadership advisor, and author of Make Your Brand Legendary. With a journey that spans from child actor to consultant for Fortune 500 companies and Silicon Valley unicorns, Scott shares powerful lessons on identity, failure, and personal transformation. Together, they explore how life’s unexpected transitions can lead to growth, clarity, and deep purpose.🔥 You’ll learn:✔️ How to reframe failure as a foundation for growth✔️ Why your identity shouldn’t be tied to your job title✔️ How to spot the signs it’s time to leap to your next “tree”Whether you're a CEO, creator, student, or seeker — this episode will shift how you think about your path forward.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:45 – Childhood as a Performer & Child Actor07:20 – Book Mention: Range by David Epstein10:14 – “T-Shaped” People and the Value of Broad Experience15:49 – Tree-to-Tree Metaphor for Life and Career Shifts19:17 – Identity Anchors and Self-Worth26:11 – Bob Goff's Words That Hit Hard33:20 – Scott’s Major Leadership Failure Story38:25 – Gaining a Tactical Mindset Through Past Mistakes44:56 – Parenting and Understanding Unconditional Love50:47 – Fear-Driven Success vs. Peace-Driven Fulfillment58:03 – Finding Joy in Podcasting & Running1:02:07 – Final Insight: “I Don’t Have to Be Right to Like Myself”Follow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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May 19, 2025 • 1h 2min

What being paralyzed taught me about joy and purpose - Barry Shore

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of Sparks of Gratitude, Randy Sparks talks with Barry Shore — the Ambassador of Joy, mental health activist, and founder of the Keep Smiling Movement. They explore how joy, gratitude, and perspective can transform even the most challenging circumstances. Barry shares his extraordinary journey from total paralysis to global impact, along with practical tools to help you live with purpose, choose joy daily, and make a meaningful difference—yes, even by learning to love dog poop.🔥 You’ll learn:✔️ How to find joy even in life’s hardest moments✔️ The deeper meaning behind “dog poop” (yep, really)✔️ Why gratitude, choice, and service are the keys to resilience✔️ What it truly means to “go MAD” and make a difference✔️ How small acts—like smiling or skipping—can create ripple effects of healing and happinessWhether you're a CEO, creator, student, or seeker, this episode will shift how you think about your path forward.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:22 - The 3 Fundamentals of Life05:00 - SMILE = Seeing Miracles in Life Every day05:45 - Barry’s paralysis story: a sudden life change 11:20 - Why Barry can speak about joy15:03 - 6 most important words: “Choice, not chance, determines your destiny”17:22 - How happiness became his life’s mission19:50 - Barry’s path to happiness: decision made at 1722:37 - Influences: the happy people Barry admired25:00 - Attraction through energy, not appearance27:35 - Two powerful words from Barry’s mom: “Thank you.”29:02 - Barry’s greatest role model: his mother36:28 - The journey through aquatic therapy40:20 - First breakthrough: 92 minutes of swimming45:28 - Three keys: Blab, Skipping, and Dog Poop51:22 - Skipping = total immersion in joy54:17 - Learn to love DOG POOP explained: Doing Of Good, Power Of One Person1:00:17 - H.U.G. = Heartfelt Unlimited GratitudeFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com
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May 5, 2025 • 54min

Untold TEDx Insight on Curiosity and Vulnerability - Julie Pham

Send us a textCuriosityBased founder and author of 7 Forms of Respect joins Randy Sparks on The Sparks of Gratitude Podcast. They explore how curiosity, when practiced intentionally, can transform relationships, workplace culture, and self-awareness. Julie shares personal stories and practical tools to help you navigate expectations, assumptions, and emotions with greater clarity and grace.🔥 You’ll learn:✔️ Why curiosity is a learnable, intentional practice — not just a trait✔️ The 3 essential components of practicing curiosity✔️ How assumptions and expectations shape our emotional responses✔️ Why “respect” looks different to different people — and how to navigate it✔️ The difference between hope, expectation, and disappointment✔️ How to turn frustration into understanding through reflection and dialogue✔️ What it really means to offer and receive grace in human relationshipsWhether you're a CEO, creator, student, or seeker, this episode will shift how you think about your path forward.📍 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:25 - The Origin Story of Curiosity-Based5:03 - Practicing Curiosity: Three Core Elements07:17 - The Rubber Band Rule & Respect as Self-Awareness11:56 - The Trap of Loaded Questions14:40 - Julie's Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship19:57 - The Gap Between Expectation and Reality29:05 - How Expectations, Hopes, and Assumptions Interact36:48 - Helping Clients Slow Down to Practice Curiosity42:56 - Finding Grace Through Curiosity46:31 - Tips for Practicing Curiosity: Pause, Reflect, Ask48:44 - Curiosity vs. Venting: Knowing What You Need50:17 - “I’m Grateful” Instead of “I Love You”52:51 - Julie’s Upcoming Work & New Individual WorkshopsFollow Sparks of Gratitude:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitudeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitudeWebsite: https://www.sparksofgratitude.comDo you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:info@sparksofgratitude.com

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