Sparks of Gratitude

Send us a textIndustrial designer Ayse Birsel is one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People and is on the Thinkers50 Radar List of the 30 management thinkers most likely to shape the future of organizations. She is the author of Design the Life You Love. She believes our life is our biggest design project and gives lectures and workshops to help individuals and companies to design the life they love and live it. In this episode of the Sparks Gratitude Podcast, Ayse explains how life is the biggest design project we have ever undertaken, full of possibilities and obstacles. Learn how the design process can be appliedto our own life. She talks about the value deconstruction, reconstruction, and point of view. We talk about giving ourselves permission to be playful to find creativity and a willingness to experiment with ideas. We discuss the significance of values, which serve as the cornerstone of our way of living. Ayse Birsel's website:https://www.aysebirsel.com/Chapter:00:00 - Intro02:06 - About life in Paris and New York04:22 - From Pessimism to Optimism 06:15 - Ayse Birsel: Creating “Design the Life You Love”10:34 - Design Process: Deconstruction and Reconstruction 13:42 - How our life is our biggest design project 18:03 - Explained the Point of view21:17 - Tools in Permission to be playful 25:05 - Importance of having and discovering what those values are in building our life30:09 - Life lessons from Karate 34:26- Marshall Goldsmith: Expressing gratitude for younger self and future self 37:17 - Astronauts of long life | The four pillars of life - Love, Purpose, Well-Being and Friendship 40:40 - Design the Long Life You Love | became a best seller in the love category Also Mentioned in this Episode:Chester Elton Episode: https://youtu.be/qryGI0zS0mg 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 textOur guest today is a nationally recognized photographer based in Utah, working throughout the United States for a variety of wedding, portrait, corporate, and editorial clients, he is Justine Hackworth.Justin shares in this episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast, how making people feel comfortable in front of the camera reveals their true selves. His curiosity about people drives him to see and feel their unique moments and emotions. Gestures and expressions are the heart of a good portrait, capturing emotions and stories. He also shares that a good photographer is a professional noticer who is deliberate, attentive, and grateful for each opportunity to connect and create.Follow Justin Hackworth:https://justinhackworth.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinhackworth?igsh=MXV5eTVsazZ3Z25jbg==Chapter:00:00 - Intro0:4:11 - 3 Keys to Great Portrait  Photography 09:55 - Justin Hackworth finding his passion for the camera13:35 - Elaborative Reminiscing 17:23 - Kent Miles - Value of Mentorship snd Collaborative Learning 25:00 - Lessons from Portrait Photography: People are more similar that not and they all have a story28:35 - Be Present, and “Don’t Believe Everything You Think” by Joseph Nguyen33:15 - A book called “Awaken The Giant Within” by Tony Robins 36:17 - A good photographer notices what others may not 38:11 - A painful wake up call: we have the life we focus on 42:32- Paying it forwardAlso Mentioned in this episodeNate and Vanessa Quigley Episode:https://youtu.be/9YpBaJZaxuEb Lauren Spangler Episode:https://youtu.be/Qjf4aUqRn7I For more information on this episode, go to:sparksofgratitude.com about this episodeFollow 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 textOur guest today is a good-vibes personified, the kindest person you’ll ever meet, Derek Miner. Randy has been inspired by Derek’s humor, goodness, and gratitude for over 30 years. Derek is a serial successful entrepreneur, whose latest endeavor with Greg Trimble — Lemonade Stand — is a full-service digital marketing agency giving a portion of every dollar to programs that support the success of the next generation. It’s the “Build Then Bless” mantra that is at the heart of Derek’s mentoring mindset. The company’s podcast — Lemonade Stand Stories — is built around motivating the next generation of “go-getters” looking to build their own businesses. And, after all, businesses are all lemonade stands at heart.Derek shares in this episode of the Sparks of Gratitude Podcast that he embodies what makes a true friendship special—a connection that fosters vulnerability and transcends ego. It honors people who genuinely show up in their care at unexpected times. We explore the significance of heavenly moments that impact our lives and the strength of human connection via anecdotes of pain turned into thankfulness. From modest deeds of kindness to significant effects, we discover how every day presents chances to cultivate deep relationships and have a beneficial impact. Come along as we consider how friendships that encourage and uplift us came to be through all of life's challenges and smiles.Check out what Derek is doing:https://buildthenbless.comhttps://www.lemonadestand.org/Chapter:00:00 - Intro02:30 - What True Friendship Means05:03 - Grief, Gratitude, Connection with the Divine: Lessons from my father11:17 - Lessons of Fatherhood 16:21 - Evolution of Build then Bless 23:49 - Saving my Jacket - Customer Experience 27:54 - Build Then Bless - Empowering others to do good 32:42 - Culture is the Soul of the Company Culture39:12 - Highlight Appreciation and Impact of Peers40:55 - “Every sunset is an opportunity to reset” - Richie Norton 50:20 - Who Inspires YouFollow 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 textOur guest today is Bryan Hurd, founder of The Evolution Project which helps men find purpose, meaning and fulfillment. Bryan believes we are all on to ourselves and that everything we need is in this present moment. In this episode we discuss how every emotion has a frequency. Awareness is key and that while you cannot control others, you can control how you show up at any moment. Every emotion, from despair to peace, carries a unique gift, and it's crucial to face challenges head-on rather than avoid them. Engaging directly with life can lead to higher consciousness and meaningful change. The idea that "the cave you fear holds the treasure you seek" suggests that confronting fears can lead to significant personal growth. We explore the concept of the "masks" we all wear, representing the traits or personas we adopt in different situations. And the theme of our past, present and future selves weave throughout the conversation. Envisioning your future self can be a powerful motivator for change. The importance of resilience, building your vision for others to see, and finding gratitude in every situation. Thank you for watching.Find Bryan Hurd and The Evolution Project:https://www.myevolutionproject.com/ Chapter:00:00 - Intro01:06 - “Everything, that I need is present at this moment”03:39 - Every Emotion has a Frequency  08:03 - The Opposite of Judgment12:07 - Breathe - What's the feeling you don't want to feel?16:48 - Awareness, Engagement, Authenticity19:15 - Own your story - Transition from Victim to Accountability to Transcendence 25:02 - Dark shadow theory - Make peace with fear28:34 - What masks do you wear?   34:22 - Past, present, and future self 39:29 - Inspiration from Walt Disney 44:04 - Disney's "The Kid" - Past and Future Self 50:00 - Gratitude to past and future self  Also Mentioned in this Episode:Curtis Morley Episode - Counterfeit Emotions: https://youtu.be/7lw8nBam1f8https://www.counterfeitemotions.com/Nathan Tanner Episode - The Unconquerable Leader: https://youtu.be/7lw8nBam1f8Chester Elton Episode: https://youtu.be/qryGI0zS0mgFollow 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 textOur guest today is Nicholas Coleman, an artist who captures the spirit of adventure primarily focusing on the heritage and romance of the American West. His work emphasizes the key elements of a good story: scene, structure, event, and plot. Every intentional brush stroke builds a story that evokes the common narrative of struggle, fortitude, and resiliency through both characters and characterization. Much of this is a result of his upbringing under his father, famed Western American artist Michael Coleman. Nicholas shares that visiting art-filled spaces ignites inspiration, whether from a beautifully captured landscape or a masterful piece that feels effortlessly natural. Inspiration often stems from admired figures, past and present, who motivate us to push through the hardest part: the work itself. This drive combines personal agency with circumstantial luck, showcasing the remarkable achievements people can attain. He also shares despite hardships, maintaining vision and quality in art brings fulfillment and a sense of service to others, reminding us that our struggles build resilience and perspective.Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFYJpy3OfFBfxi8pA4Dg5nwFollow Nicholas Coleman:https://www.nicholascolemanart.com/https://www.instagram.com/nicholascolemanart/?hl=enChapter:00:00 - Intro03:00 - Inspired by his father Michael Coleman06:42 - How his father impact on his life11:44 - The magic and romance American West and Native American art15:46 - The western landscape - a canvas for great art 18:01 - Who inspires Nicholas Coleman: People who do the work 22:18 - Being an artist is being willing to do the work28:44 - The hard parts of being an artist - inspiration, rejection, opportunity37:35 - What story is Nicholas Coleman's art telling - Hope 45:23 - What it's like to let a painting go 46:59 - When a painting takes someone somewhere and makes them feel something49:08 - What gratitude means to Nicholas Coleman51:07 - The best memories come from hard experiencesFollow 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

Scott Porter, a lifelong entrepreneur and founder of San Diablo Artisan Churros, shares his infectious passion for tacos and the joy of shared experiences. He dives into how Mexican culture and cuisine have transformed his life, highlighting moments of warmth and connection. Scott discusses embracing adversity, like the impact of his father's passing, and finding purpose in gratitude. He emphasizes the need for meaningful experiences over material possessions, illustrating this with charming anecdotes about churro-making gatherings and vibrant Lucha Libre adventures.

Send us a textChester Elton is our guest today. He along with his partner Adrian Gostick have been called the “Apostles of Appreciation,” the "Deacons of Danke Schön," the "Ministers of Motivation," the "High Priests of Praise," the "Guru of Gratitude" and the "Dalai Lamas of Workplace Traumas." Their works in business leadership and culture have impacted millions of people over the past two decades. In his provocative, inspiring, and always-entertaining speeches, the #1 bestselling leadership author provides real solutions to leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation, and lead a multi-generational workforce. Elton’s work is supported by research with more than 1 million working adults, revealing the proven secrets behind high-performance cultures and teams.Chester shares the power of gratitude in transforming lives. The importance of kindness and forgiveness, and the impact of small acts of kindness—because everyone is fighting their own battle. Discover how to incorporate gratitude rituals into your life, from movement and meditation to daily reflections, and see how these practices can lift you out of loneliness and negativity. Whether you're seeking ways to heal your anxiety, manage your mental health, or simply improve your relationships, this podcast offers practical advice and heartfelt stories to inspire you. Remember, your voice matters, and by embracing gratitude, you can change your life for the better. 🔔 Subscribe for more great content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFYJpy3OfFBfxi8pA4Dg5nwFollow Chester's Elton:https://chesterelton.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chesterelton/https://thecultureworks.com/https://litvideobooks.com/anxiety-at-workAlso Mentioned:https://thepowerofkind.org/Listen to this episode on the go:🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparks-of-gratitude/id1725414927🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ddtJyRwhdAxj2Eh2oj4NAChapter:00:00 - Intro01:50 - One Kind Act a Day06:44 - Kindness makes Gratitude Actionable 08:13 - Chester's Nicknames 09:14 - Adrian Gostick - Business Partner and Best Friend 14:08 - “The Gratitude Habit" - a 90-day journal to a more grateful life 16:23 - Benefits of a Gratitude Journal 22:54 - Two Letters Exercise: Letter of Gratitude to Past Self and to Future Self 24:22 - Who inspires Chester Elton  30:42 - "Leading with Gratitude" - Does Gratitude Belong in Workplace? 35:43 - “A Thousand Ways to Recognize Your Employees” 37:58 - You're rarely a hero in your own town 43:36 - “Anxiety at Work”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 textExecutive Coach, author, father, friend, and amazing human. Nathan Tanner recently published "The Unconquerable Leader" and shares personal experiences gained from years of experience working for Door Dash, Neighbor, LinkedIN, and more, as well as being a husband and father. He works with exceptional leaders and love helping them lead effectively and live intentionally. He's also the author of "Not Your Parents’ Workplace", and regularly writes for Forbes, Inc., and Fast Company and on LinkedIN.Nathan shares the power of a positive mindset and clear vision. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people and distancing from toxic influences to foster authentic growth. He shares that change is acknowledged as difficult but necessary for personal development. By letting go of old versions of ourselves and embracing personal accountability, we can move away from resentment and selfishness towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Follow Nathan's Tanner:https://nathantanner.net/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathantanner?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appBuy The Book: The Unconquerable Leader: Mastering the Internal and External Game https://a.co/d/1lFq0DSChapter:00:00 - Intro02:12 - Book “The Unconquerable Leader” 02:43 - Panic Attack, A Wake Up Call to Change 07:24 - How Nathan showed differently,  Internally and Externally 09:19 - The power of the stories that we tell ourselves 12:43 - Daily Reminders - Create Your Identity  17:47 - Importance of setting a vision (and a confession from Randy) 23:58 - Who to surround yourself with. And removing toxic people25:42 - Toxic Authenticity and Authentic Growth27:10 - Ownership and Personal Responsibility 33:02 - Counting your blessings: 30-day gratitude challenge39:37 - Meaningful Connection 40:52 - Effective Communication - Radical Candor Framework by Kim ScottFollow 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. Scott Noorda, D.O. is an osteopathic physician, Founder & CEO of Resolve Medical, Creator of the Brainlift Neuroprotective Program, and Co-Author of Power Couple Habits. He specializes in longevity and living a long healthy life and preventing cognitive decline. His father died of Alzheimer’s disease and from that experience Dr. Noorda has dedicated himself to finding a better way to treat patients using a wholistic approach.Dr. Noorda shares that every small change counts in our journey of care and healing. Understanding and listening to patients creates a profound impact and allows him to know what each individual patient needs, rather than a systematized approach of prescribing a pill for every ill. With his wife Amy, Dr. Noorda studied habit science and various ways to allow the body to heal itself beyond traditional medicine, they wrote a book called “Power Couple Habits” to help people life longer, live healthier, and help each ither to donit. Healing doesn't always require medication; gratitude and positivity are powerful remedies. Starting and ending each day with gratitude uplifts the spirit. A smile brightens our brain's interpretation of positivity. 🔔 Subscribe for more great content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFYJpy3OfFBfxi8pA4Dg5nwFollow Dr. Noorda:https://www.instagram.com/dr.scottnoorda?igsh=MTY2ZXRvd292Y2Ixcg==https://resolveutah.com/Watch on YouTube:https://youtu.be/seNfHJGAvGw?si=fjOmwMe7pcCaSYqwChapter:00:00 - Intro01:50 - Who is Dr. Scott Noorda?06:54 - “The End of Alzheimer's” Dr. Del Bredison12:47 - Amy and Scott Noorda working together to encourage each other 15:13 - “Power Couple Habits” and about the Brainlift Neuroprotective Program21:43 - What is patient experience with Resolve Medical and Dr. Noorda  Comprehensive evaluations26:45 - Fealing heard, “The greatest medical visit she ever had”28:46 - Functional medicine vs Traditional medicine33:25 - Wholistic medicine, Mind, Body, Spirit.  37:09 - Benefits of a daily gratitude practice. Change neural connections in brain.39:21 - The Brain Lift starts with Mindset (gratitude and positivity)42:00 - Top 3 habits: Improve telationship with Food, Exercise, and People 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 textAl Switzler has an amazing life story. In his own words he is “the illegitimate son of a teenage orphan named Jones who has no living relatives.” With every excuse to not amount to anything he defied it all and shares his gratitude for the wonderful people who helped him learn and believe in possibilities. He has impacted millions of people with his company and books including the New York Times best seller “Crucial Conversations” which he wrote with his partners Joseph Grenny and Ron McMillan. Al shares the power of acknowledging the blessings in our lives, from the smallest pennies to the grandest gestures. Through journaling and reflection, we uncover the abundance that surrounds us, realizing that what we seek is often what we already possess. Discover how expressing gratitude through action enriches our lives and guards against the thief of comparison.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