Sparks of Gratitude

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with legendary high school coach and leadership speaker Coach Jim Johnson, the man behind the unforgettable “J-Mac Game” that inspired millions around the world.Coach Jim shares the extraordinary story of that miraculous night, the unseen hours that made it possible, and the deeper lessons of leadership, clarity, vulnerability, and purpose that shaped his life and coaching career.From overcoming early failures to discovering his mission of being an outstanding role model and helping others achieve their dreams, Coach Jim offers timeless wisdom for anyone striving to lead with heart, integrity, and gratitude.A moving reminder that when we lift others, miracles happen.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:50 – Coach Jim’s background: Teaching, coaching & early struggles05:00 – Getting fired at 25 & learning leadership under Coach Van Gundy06:11 – Meeting J-Mac: The player who would change everything12:28 – The miracle goes global: Media, ESPN, and Kobe Bryant15:30 – The book "A Coach and a Miracle"16:15 – J-Mac inspires the team to win their first championship19:47 – Coach’s mission & living with purpose22:44 – Core values & aligning actions with words26:00 – A humbling moment: The tie story & being a true role model29:56 – The responsibility of being “Coach”30:45 – Learning from mentors & great leaders34:35 – The power of words: Jealousy vs. being happy for others39:00 – How gratitude shifts perspective42:03 – Signature stories and everyday inspirations46:10 – Coach Jim’s advice: Gratitude journals & daily scoreboardsFollow 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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with Randy McNeely, Captain Kindman, to explore how Courageous Kindness can heal division, strengthen connection, and transform lives.A survivor and lifelong advocate for intentional kindness, Randy shares personal stories, pivotal moments that shaped him, and practical frameworks, including The Courageous Kindness Shift™, the ICA Method™, and The Kindness Giver’s Formula™, that help people lead with love in everyday life.A heartfelt reminder that kindness saves lives… and it starts with each of us.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:50 – Why Randy Wears the Cape05:00 – What Is Courageous Kindness?06:34 – The Courageous Kindness SHIFT Framework09:40 - The ICA Method (Identify, Clarify, Amplify)10:10 - The Kindness Giver’s Formula13:00 – How Kindness Releases D.O.S.E. Chemicals16:00 – Practicing Kindness Like a Muscle18:14 – Courage vs. Fear: How They Work Together19:13 – Accepting Yourself Exactly As You Are22:52 – How Gratitude Beats Entitlement & Resentment26:53 – BeYourselfBook.com Mention35:23 – Reflecting on Kindness Experiences37:00 – Kindness During Family Trauma40:22 – Motherly Love, Roses & Small Acts of Kindness43:43 – “Somebody Thinks I'm Pretty Neat” Story47:04 – How a Small Sentence Can Change a Life47:54 – Kalani Sitake’s Childhood Story of Kindness50:30 – How Love Ends “Hell Week”53:06 – A Powerful Invitation to Self-Love & AppreciationFollow 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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks talks with Eric Ayers, an optimist, thought leader, and human-centric coach dedicated to helping others rediscover their potential and become their best selves.Eric opens up about his journey from burnout as a pediatric nurse to renewal through gratitude, courage, and connection. His story reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to grow and transform.A heartfelt conversation about purpose, resilience, and the power of choosing to become your best self.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:18 - Who Is Eric Ayers?05:07 - The Turning Point: From Nursing Burnout to Awakening09:38 - The Role of His Wife in His Transformation13:34 - Hitting Rock Bottom16:05 - Rediscovering Self Through Human Design17:00 - The Hero’s Journey20:00 - Evolving Relationships Through Change25:27 - The Dance of Expansion and Letting Go31:30 - Fear as a Signal for Growth34:42 - The Sandbox Metaphor37:27 - Discovering Purpose Through Doing39:48 - The SMRX Project43:00 - Coaching and Life by Design45:00 - Six-Week Journey of Transformation: https://www.lifebydesign.me/45:52 - Pep Talks With Eric: https://www.youtube.com/@emc-life-by-design47:23 - The Power of a Simple Mindset Shift49:30 - Reflection on Wayne Dyer’s Quote — “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”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

Send us a textIn this uplifting episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Jacqueline Way, founder of @365give, to explore how one mother’s desire to raise a kind, compassionate child grew into a global movement of giving and joy.Jacqueline shares her deeply personal journey, from adopting her son and beginning a “365 days of giving” challenge, to witnessing how small, intentional acts of love can transform lives, families, and entire communities. Together, Randy and Jacqueline dive into the power of choice, peace, and presence, reminding us that happiness isn’t found in what we get, but in what we give.Whether you’re looking for practical ways to live with more gratitude or simply need a dose of hope in your day, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you to see the beauty in giving, 365 days a year.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction04:54 - The Tender Story of Adoption 06:10 - The Birth of 365give 09:23 - How small acts became life-changing habits12:46 - The Algorithm of Life13:33 - What People Get Wrong About Happiness17:33 - The deeper goal beyond happiness18:48 - Peace in the Midst of Divorce23:10 - Letting Go of Attachment28:35 - Choosing Love Over Reactivity32:06 - The Dash of Life35:00 - Toxic Positivity vs. Real Humanity37:20 - Reprogramming the Mind39:34 - Learning from 365give and Her Son42:14 - From Home Project to Global MovementFollow 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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Cheryl Rice, founder of the You Matter Marathon, to share how two simple words, "You Matter", ignited a global movement of kindness and human connection.What began with one small act of compassion in a grocery store has reached millions across more than 100 countries, reminding people everywhere of their worth and the power of being seen. Cheryl opens up about her journey, the ripple effects of kindness, and why this message is more essential than ever.Whether you’re seeking hope, purpose, or a reminder that you matter too, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you to make a difference, one card, one person, one moment at a time.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:43 - The story that inspired “You Matter”05:00 - The first year: 14 countries and 30,000 08:32 - What changed in Cheryl after that momentpeople15:12 - From one card to over 3 million shared 18:23 - Heart-touching “You Matter” stories from around the world23:54 - The philosophy of “we,” not “me”28:51 - Overcoming comparison and rediscovering self-worth36:00 - Why reminding others they matter truly matters42:40 - Traditional Psychology vs. Positive Psychology47:13 - Embracing every emotion — the real path to wholeness52:56 - Wholeness and self-acceptance: loving all parts of yourselfFollow 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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Kevin Smith, founder of Kindness Worldwide, to share how a single lost wallet on Good Friday sparked a global movement of compassion. Together, they explore how small acts of kindness can create powerful ripple effects that change lives, heal communities, and even save them.From his roots working on his grandfather’s farm to honoring the legacy of his late mother, Kevin reveals the values that shaped his conviction that “the meaning of life is to live it in a way to make a meaningful difference.” He opens up about the challenges of stepping into a new calling, the growth that comes from embracing discomfort, and the vision behind Kindness Week Worldwide.Whether you want to reignite hope, practice gratitude, or be reminded of the power of kindness, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you to make a difference, one act at a time.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:28 - A Shared Love for Guitars 07:17 - The Birth of Kindness Worldwide13:10 - The Lost Wallet Story on Good Friday 202316:43 - Launch of Kindness Worldwide Nonprofit20:25 - Ripple Effects: No Act of Kindness is Too Small29:44 - Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable38:26 - Growth, Fear, and Becoming Fearless45:10 - Gratitude as the Foundation of KindnessFollow 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

Send us a textIn this empowering episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Jill Schulman, a former U.S. Marine, leadership expert, and author of The Bravery Effect, to explore the true meaning of bravery. Together, they dive into how fear holds us back, why courage is built through daily habits, and how embracing discomfort can unlock growth, resilience, and joy.From lessons learned in the Marine Corps to insights rooted in psychology and neuroscience, Jill shares practical strategies for building a courageous mindset, taking bold action, and surrounding yourself with the right people.Whether you’re striving to overcome fear, elevate your happiness, or step into the life you truly want, this conversation will inspire you to choose courage over regret and start doing the hard things that matter most.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction03:35 - What bravery really means (not being fearless)04:02 - Why Jill wrote The Bravery Effect07:08 - Positive psychology and elevating happiness09:04 - Jill’s Marine Corps background and first struggles12:34 - Building bravery with small daily decisions14:03 - Confidence boost at Officer Candidate School16:50 - Gratitude letters and embracing challenges20:27 - Myths and misconceptions about bravery23:07 - Comfort vs. growth: why discomfort matters26:21 - Stress reframing: fear as a signal to move forward30:30 - The buffalo vs. cow storm analogy36:35 - Daily bravery practice: 15-second pause exercise44:00 - Bravery model: Mindset, Action, Connection (three doors)48:05 - Importance of your “brave tribe” (who you surround yourself with)51:07 - Stories of mentors and people who believed in Jill57:38 - Strive, don’t just arrive: finding meaning beyond milestones01:01:10 - Advice to teenage self: dream big, swing for the fences01:04:06 - Jill Schulman’s New Book: https://www.jillschulman.com/book 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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode, Randy Sparks, a lawyer and host of the Sparks of Gratitude, joins Dr. Andreea Vanacker on her podcast to share powerful insights on gratitude, resilience, kindness, and finding joy through life’s challenges. From daily gratitude practices to lessons learned as a father, husband, and professional, Randy offers wisdom on how gratitude can transform our perspective and ripple out into the world.Whether you’re looking to cultivate positivity, strengthen relationships, or create a ripple effect of kindness, this conversation is filled with wisdom and practical takeaways to help you live with more hope, joy, and gratitude.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:00 - The Power of Looking Back with Gratitude03:40 - Starting a Daily Gratitude Practice09:19 - Acts of Kindness and Gratitude’s Ripple Effect12:26 - Finding Gratitude in Adversity and Hardship20:00 - The Role of Awareness and Accountability22:57 - Why Randy Chose to Become a Lawyer26:16 - Most Profound Lessons From Family & Marriage29:49 - The Recipe for Joy & a Long Marriage31:36 - Forgiveness, Gratitude, and Hope as Core Ingredients33:33 - Free Will, Destiny, and Life’s Choices35:29 - A Simple Gratitude Exercise for the Week36:32 - Creating a Ripple Effect of Joy37:24 - A Time Capsule Message for Future GenerationsFollow 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

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

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