Sparks of Gratitude

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, Randy Sparks sits down with Dr. Antoine Eid to dive deep into discovering your true self. He is the Founder and CEO of Meet Yourself, a groundbreaking platform combining genetics, neuroscience, and personal discovery. He also serves as CEO of Leapership Consultants Group and leads the Brain-Based Leadership Program at Cambridge. They explore how genetics, intuition, life experiences, and thinking patterns shape who you are — and how embracing your natural talents leads to greater happiness and fulfillment. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation about purpose, self-acceptance, and unlocking the gifts already within you.🔥 You’ll learn:✔️ Why intuition is a true strength, not a weakness✔️ How genetics and environment influence your personality✔️ The difference between motivators and competencies✔️ Why aligning talents and learned skills leads to happiness✔️ How to overcome fear, self-doubt, and old limiting beliefs✔️ The real power of living authenticallyWhether you're a CEO, creator, student, or seeker, this episode will shift how you think about your path forward.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 powerful episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with renowned leadership coach and bestselling author Jim Huling (The 4 Disciplines of Execution) to explore the 4 transformative questions that can reveal your life’s true purpose.From overcoming imposter syndrome to reconnecting with your inner calling, this heart-opening conversation will guide you to remember who you really are — and the value you already hold.🔥 You’ll learn:✔️ The 4 questions to find your purpose✔️ How to overcome fear and self-doubt✔️ The power of gratitude and intentional living✔️ How leaders can create meaning and connection✔️ Why “you are becoming, not faking” is the key to confidenceChapter:00:00 - Introduction03:34 – Frequency of Emotions09:23 – The Real Meaning of 'Calling'20:53 – Four Questions That Changed Everything for Jim26:13 – Randy’s Reflection: Fear of Not Living Fully30:25 – Imposter Syndrome as a Signal, Not a Stop Sign32:24 – The Committee in Your Head35:44 – The Untethered Soul & The Roommate37:30 – Coaching as a Sacred Space40:26 – From CEO to Inner Child: Loneliness is Universal42:00 – Two Questions Every Employee Asks45:30 – Thank You vs. Real Appreciation51:11 – Nourishing People Through LeadershipFollow 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 textBecky Kemp is an intentional leadership speaker, mindset coach, and author of The Word Effect: 7 Simple Words to Create Your Most Beautiful Life. Through her empowering message, Becky helps individuals and teams unlock the power of words to reshape their stories and live with greater joy and purpose. As the founder of Becoming Threads and host of The Word Effect Podcast, Becky brings energy, encouragement, and practical wisdom to every stage and conversation. Her approachable style and inspiring message leave a lasting impact on all who hear her.In this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with speaker, coach, and author Becky Kemp to explore the life-changing power of words. Becky shares insights from her book The Word Effect: 7 Simple Words to Create Your Most Meaningful and Beautiful Life, revealing how intentional language can shape your thoughts, your reality, and your future.Discover how words like Acknowledge, Ask, Accept, Abundance, Action, Appreciate, and Aspire can help you overcome fear, self-doubt, and perfectionism—and guide you toward a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life. Becky also opens up about her personal journey, the importance of gratitude, and how shifting your self-talk can lead to lasting change.Change your words. Change your story. Start today.Chapter:00:00 - Introduction01:00 - Meet Becky Kemp: Speaker, Coach, and Author03:28 - Words Shape Reality: The Power of Language06:24 - How Becky’s Journey with Words Began09:46 - 12-step program: “Easy does it” and “Just for today”16:17 - Awareness: The First Step to Change20:05 - Acknowledge: The First Power Word22:40 - The Power of Writing Things Down25:09 - Courage is trying what you don’t know how to do26:49 - Power word #2: Ask – Inspires curiosity and change29:31 - The HOW Acronym: Honesty, Open-Mindedness, Willingness33:35 - Power word #3: Accept – Embrace where you are39:06 -  Accept yourself unconditionally – affirmation practice41:14 - Power word #4: Abundance – Focus on progress43:13 - Practice abundance daily – see more good45:13 - Scarcity vs. abundance mindset47:07 - Power word #5: Action – Consistent progress50:00 - Power word #6: Appreciate – What you appreciate, appreciate54:08 - Power word #7: Aspire – Always Becoming57:02 - Get the book: The Word Effect by Becky KempFollow 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