Sparks of Gratitude

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

Send us a textThis inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast explores the power of resilience, faith, and gratitude in overcoming life’s toughest challenges. Hosted by Randy Sparks, the conversation features Carrie Hill, who shares her personal journey from financial hardship to empowerment, highlighting how resilience is an ongoing process rather than a final achievement. Carrie discusses the inspiration behind her Refined Resilience podcast and her new initiative, Empowered, aimed at supporting women facing financial struggles. The episode emphasizes hope as an adventure, the importance of community, and how embracing gratitude fuels personal growth and transformation.Carrie Hill is a PR expert with 18+ years of experience, specializing in brand strategy, media relations, and storytelling. She is the founder of CHill Consulting Agency and co-creator of InPowered, a program helping divorced women re-enter the workforce. Carrie also hosts the Clover Conversations Podcast, where she explores personal and professional growth.🎧 Listen now and start your journey to a more intentional and fulfilling life!Follow Carrie Hill:​⁠ https://www.instagram.com/refindresiliencepodcast?igsh=Z215eTh1dnlvdGRoFollow 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 textNatalie Ledwell is an internationally renowned motivational speaker, best-selling author, and Law of Attraction expert. As co-founder of Mind Movies, she has helped millions worldwide manifest their dreams through visualization and personal development. A risk-taker and non-conformist, Natalie has hosted The Inspiration Show and Wake Up TV! and is a founding member of multiple transformational leadership organizations. Passionate about empowering both adults and children, she is currently pioneering Personal Growth Studies, a life-changing curriculum for kids. Based in Southern California, she continues to inspire with her fearless approach to life and personal growth.In this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks welcomes special guest Natalie Ledwell, a passionate advocate for gratitude and personal growth. They explore how our thoughts shape our reality, the power of visualization through Mind Movies, and the transformative impact of gratitude in daily life. Natalie also shares insights on emotional intelligence, her FeelWise app, and her personal journey of overcoming limiting beliefs. Tune in to discover how gratitude can be the gateway to manifesting your dreams and living a high-frequency life.Chapter:00:00 - Introduction02:45 - The FeelWise App: Emotional Intelligence & Awareness09:57 - How FeelWise Analyzes Emotional Energy16:34 - The Journey to Creating Mind Movies20:07 - Importance of Affirmations & Emotional Visualization22:58 - The Role of Music in Manifestation24:40 - Overcoming Limiting Beliefs to Dream Big29:20 - The Power of Gratitude in Manifestation32:44 - Natalie’s Personal Experience with Divine Gratitude38:08 - High-Frequency Living & Emotional Awareness44:01 - How to Reframe Past Challenges for Growth48:28 - Learning from Mentors: Joe Dispenza & Bob ProctorFollow 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 textBrad Aronson is a husband, father, and author who is passionate about kindness and entrepreneurship. His book, HumanKind: Changing the World One Small Act at a Time, shares true stories of kindness and its ripple effects. All proceeds go to Big Brothers Big Sisters.When he’s not writing, Brad teaches entrepreneurship to youth, volunteers with nonprofits, and plays creative games with his family. He believes small acts can make a big difference and loves sharing that message with audiences everywhere.In this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks welcomes bestselling author Brad Aronson, whose book Humankind explores the ripple effect of small acts of kindness. Through inspiring stories—such as a child turning a painful anniversary into a global kindness movement—this episode highlights how compassion can transform lives, offering hope and connection. With discussions on neuroscience, personal experiences, and practical ways to spread kindness, this podcast is a reminder that small gestures can make a big impact.Chapter:00:00 - Introduction02:52 - The Story of Gabriel’s Day of Kindness08:17 - The Science Behind Acts of Compassion10:41 - How Helping Others Can Heal Trauma12:42 - The Ripple Effect of Kindness on a Global Scale15:00 - Love Does by Bob Goff16:26 - A Personal Lesson on Seeing & Appreciating Everyone18:04 - One Kind Act a Day by Curtis Bennett19:18 - The Challenges of Accepting Help & How to Offer It Effectively22:26 - The Importance of Acknowledging Others (The Cleaning Staff Story)25:25 - The Connection Between Gratitude & Kindness27:58 - The Power of Changing Perspectives in Relationships33:14 - The Healing Power of Laughter38:30 - Finding Hope in Kindness: Transforming Lives40:37 - The Role of HopeWorks in Empowering Youth43:38 - Overcoming Self-Doubt & Imposter Syndrome44:57 - Encouraging Kindness & Service in ChildrenFollow 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 textDr. Elia Gourgouris is a psychologist, bestselling author, and president of The Happiness Center, which is dedicated to fostering personal success and happiness. He is the author of 7 Paths to Lasting Happiness and co-author of 7 Keys to Navigating a Crisis. Dr. Elia is a sought-after speaker on mental health, resilience, and positive leadership. Born in Athens, Greece, he now inspires global audiences with his expertise in Positive Psychology and his passion for building a better, kinder world.In this inspiring episode of the Sparks of Gratitude podcast, host Randy Sparks sits down with Dr. Elia Gourgouris, psychologist, happiness expert, and author of 7 Paths to Lasting Happiness. Together, they explore profound topics like the power of gratitude, navigating life's challenges, and the transformative journey of forgiveness. Dr. Elia shares personal stories of resilience, his wisdom on cultivating lasting happiness, and practical steps for self-care. Tune in to discover how to thrive through adversity and live your best life with purpose and joy.Chapter:00:00 - Welcome & Introduction04:18 - Dr. Elia’s Mental Health TV Show Journey07:22 - Gratitude Amid Adversity10:07 - Life Lessons from Grandpa13:00 - Finding Purpose After Loss17:22 - Happiness as a Learnable Skill18:49 - Self-Care: A Non-Negotiable Practice26:33 - The 7 Paths to Happiness Overview28:17 - The Four Archetypes: Victim, Critic, Bystander, Navigator31:51 - The Power of Pivoting36:16 - Key Insights on Living Happily37:54 - Letting Go Through Forgiveness44:20 - Self-Forgiveness & Freedom49:50 - The Magic of Gratitude WalksFollow 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 textJulie Carrier has been recognized as the #1 Coach for Young Women in the World by Marshall Goldsmith and the Leading Global Coaches Awards. She is a global authority on authentic confidence and leadership development, specializing in empowering women, young women, and girlsJoin us as Julie Carrier, founder of Girls Lead and a leading expert in youth leadership, shares her inspiring journey from overcoming self-doubt to empowering young people worldwide. Discover how gratitude, character-based leadership, and resilience transform lives. This episode is packed with actionable advice for parents, teens, and educators to foster confidence and purpose in today’s challenging world. Julie Carrier websites:https://www.girlslead.ushttps://www.topspeakerforgirls.comChapter:00:00 - Introduction01:50 - Julie's journey from anxiety to leadership04:32 - Julie's mindset shift and leadership realization06:00 - The life-changing moment with a speaker in a tuxedo07:58 - Inspiring youth through gratitude and leadership10:30 - Gratitude practices for teens11:54 - Finding your “why” in challenging tasks18:25 - Girls Lead: Empowering young women in leadership21:29 - Creating leadership programs for schools23:20 - The importance of strength-based recognition25:23 - The power of recognizing character over performance28:45 - Writing a gratitude letter33:43 - Tips for parents to support teens' growth39:58 - Teaching resilience and the role of failure41:31 - Daily rituals and energy management46:00 - Rediscovering your “why” in challenging tasks50:43 - Closing advice: Living a balanced and intentional lifeFollow 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