C24-50. Lisa Cheek, “SIT, CINDERELLA, SIT”.

December 9, 2024December 8, 2024Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Choose Positive Living with Sara Troy and her guest Lisa Cheek, on air form December 10th

Lisa Cheek, author of SIT, CINDERELLA, SIT: A Mostly True Memoir?

A debut memoir of midlife adventure proving that magic can happen when you dare to believe in yourself, see and hear beyond cultural differences, and open your heart to a dog

“With a quick-witted tone and the creative lens of a gifted filmmaker, Lisa Cheek takes us through the mid-life resurrection of a woman who isn’t afraid to make her own way. In the end, she reminds us that we aren’t meant to do life solo and that true surrender requires far more strength than weakness.”

—Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of Perennials.

SIT, CINDERELLA, SIT: A Mostly True Memoir by Lisa Cheek is a humorous, heartfelt story of reinvention and self-discovery. At 45, after being abruptly fired from her successful career editing TV commercials in LA, Lisa faces an unexpected crossroads. Just when she’s ready to give up, she’s offered a job editing a Mandarin-language film about the original Cinderella story, filmed in rural China. With no knowledge of the language or a clear idea of what lies ahead, Lisa takes a bold leap into the unknown.

Living in rustic conditions near the Tibetan border, Lisa contends with cultural barriers, homesickness, and the unpredictable world of filmmaking. Along the way, she forms meaningful friendships with her translator, Max, and the young star of the film, Sunny. From celebrating her dreaded birthday with a cake fight to rediscovering her purpose by rescuing a neglected dog named Cinderella, Lisa’s journey transforms her in unexpected ways.

Told with humor, poignant flashbacks, and a fairy-tale lens, Lisa’s memoir reminds us that magic happens when you step outside your comfort zone, look beyond cultural differences, and dare to believe in yourself. Readers will be enchanted by this inspiring tale of resilience, adventure, and the universal language of hope.

Then, reality hit. This Cinderella story would be told entirely in Mandarin—the only language spoken by every member of the cast and crew, except for Lisa and her assistant/translator, Max. And it would be filmed on ancient locations in extremely rustic and remote villages near the Tibetan border.

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LISA CHEEK is a writer and film editor. After 25 years of editing and producing other people’s work, she finally took the advice of friends and coworkers to heart and decided to focus on telling her own stories. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two mutts, Josie and Elvis Bruce Wayne, and two cats, Eartha Kitt and Trixie. A frequent traveler to all kinds of interesting places, she has several film and television scripts in various stages of development and is working on her next book.

SIT, CINDERELLA, SIT

A Mostly True Memoir

By Lisa Cheek

January 14, 2025; ISBN: 9781647427283

She Writes Press

Pre order on Amazon

https://lisacheek.com

www.instagram.com/lisacheekauthor

https://www.facebook.com/lisa.cheek

lisacheek.substack.com

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All of our shows/interviews are done by donation, if you enjoyed this show please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support, thank you. and please support Our Forgotten Children’s anthology and help to bring this book in to awareness.

24-50. It’s no Excuse, just fact.

December 9, 2024December 8, 2024Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from December 10th

“Yes, I have fibromyalgia, a health condition that causes daily pain and can sometimes cripple me, but that is no excuse.” No I do not feel sorry for myself, just stating a fact.

Living with fibromyalgia and Myofascial is a challenge I’ve faced for over 27 years, and I have had asthma for 68 years. The pain is constant, rarely dropping below a five, and always accompanied by symptoms like chronic fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, IBS, aches and pain, and so much more. While this condition affects every aspect of my life, I refuse to let it define me. It’s not an excuse; it’s simply the reality I navigate daily.

Fibromyalgia, now recognized as a disease, affects 2-3% of the population and growing and disproportionately impacts women, usually between ages 30 and 60. I was diagnosed in my late forties, and though its cause remains uncertain, it’s linked to how the nervous system processes pain. Symptoms like widespread pain, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive struggles (what we call “fibro fog”) are just some of the hurdles. These challenges don’t stop me—they simply mean I’ve had to adapt and find new ways to live fully. They are not my excuse but my reason for being unable to do what others can.

Living with this condition requires careful pacing and managing energy. Overexertion can lead to burnout, so I balance what I can do with recovery time. It’s not always easy to explain this to others, as my condition isn’t visible. Declining invitations or taking things slower might seem like laziness to some, but it’s my way of respecting my limits.

In addition to fibromyalgia, I manage ADD and dyslexia, which make focus and productivity harder, especially when compounded by fibro-fog. Yet, over the past 12+ years, I’ve built a career I love, from podcasting and authoring and producing books to sharing stories from incredible individuals through my podcasting. My work energizes me and gives me purpose.

I also care for my grandchildren weekly, a rewarding but tiring role, especially on days when the pain is intense, or the weather worsens my symptoms. Humidity, in particular, takes a toll, but I’ve learned to listen to my body and prioritize self-care. Music, for example, helps me reset emotionally and physically, serving as a powerful tool to counter pain and lift my spirits.

Despite my challenges, I focus on what I can do rather than what I can’t. Life with a chronic condition requires adaptability, determination, and boundaries. It’s about managing, not excusing, and finding joy in the small victories.

As we approach the holiday season, I encourage everyone—especially those managing health challenges—to be kind to themselves. Plan recovery time before and after celebrations, honor your limits and communicate your needs to others. It’s not about making excuses; it’s about ensuring you can show up as your best self within your own boundaries.

I recently went out with some wonderful ladies from my community. We dressed up, enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner, and celebrated each other. And you know, these connections don’t just happen—you have to create them. Someone has to say, “Hey, how about we do this?” And if that’s not your personality, that’s okay! Go join something, volunteer, or participate in a way that works for you. It’s all about finding ways to connect within the boundaries of your energy and abilities, despite your conditions, and do things within your pain limit, this is essential for someone living in pain, for if we do not make an effort to go and do things, we become our disease and limitations and forget to live life in any way.

“I’ll be taking some time off over the New Year to care for my son’s pets while he and his wife enjoy their honeymoon. It’s also a chance to recharge and just be. On New Year’s Eve, I’ll get to spend quality time with my grandsons while Mum and Dad enjoy a night of adult fun. Work resumes on January 7th, and I’ll be back to interviewing inspiring guests then.”

For meaningful holiday gifts, check out my podcast, “Sara’s View of Life,” at selfdiscoverywisdom.org, where I share gift book ideas from authors I’ve interviewed this year. Books are thoughtful, lasting gifts, perfect for any time of year.

If you’re navigating health challenges this festive season, be gentle with yourself. The holidays can place extra demands on your energy, so plan for recovery time before and after big events. Be realistic about your limits, and don’t hesitate to say, “This is how it is for me.” It’s not about making excuses; it’s about understanding your needs and helping others do the same.

As we dive into this busy time, remember it’s all about balance—what you can do, what you need to do, and how to care for yourself along the way. Be kind to yourself, create meaningful moments, and embrace what brings you joy, for joy in its self is so very healing.

I’ll be back next week with one final episode before the year’s end. Take care and see you then!

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What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (FM) was recognized as a true syndrome (now upgraded to a disease) by the American College of Rheumatology in 1990. FM is thought to exist in 2% to 3% of the population. It occurs in both men and women and women are affected 6 to 9 times more often than men. FM occurs most commonly in women between the ages of 30 and 60. FM can also affect teenagers, children, and the elderly. FM has no known cause. Current research into how the nervous system deals with pain has shown that various abnormalities are present in people who have FM.

Common fibromyalgia symptoms include:

Widespread pain
Morning stiffness
Chronic Fatigue
Unrefreshing sleep
Anxiety
Cognitive or memory impairment (“fibro fog“)
Depression
Abdominal complaints, including irritable bowel syndrome
There are over 31 points to fibro, and even more, discovered in the last few years; I have 29 of these points.

24-50. Gift Books

December 4, 2024December 4, 2024Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from December 10th

I am a passionate advocate for giving books as gifts, not just at Christmas but anytime. A book is a gift that keeps on giving, offering readers lasting wisdom, inspiration, and joy. It lingers in their hearts and minds, sparking new ideas and delightful moments long after the last page is turned.

Here are some books that would make great gifts and please do listen to their shows with me.

These are only a few of the guests I interviewed on their books this year 2024.

SEE VIDEO/AUDIO SHOW BELOW THE BOOKS.

FIRST UP: OUR FORGOTTEN CHILDREN

I am proud to present this book with 15 co-authors on the systems that need to change around raising our children, let us not leave one behind. This is book one in the series.

Find the authors and book here.

Remy has one last obsession – to complete the restoration of his ’57 Studebaker Golden Hawk. He’s planned a road trip to Montreal to find a part he desperately needs. It’s a long way from Florida, his Chevy truck is almost as old as he is. There are doubts that he’ll be able to make the drive, doubts about his bladder, his heart, but he’s determined.

Find all of Sam’s books and podcasts with Sara her.

The Immunity Code: Fuel Your Body’s Defenses with Food and Lifestyle
By Michaela Gaffen Stone

Mikki is also an author in Our Forgotten Children’s book.

See all her books here.

Mission Accepted 262 has 262 powerful women who share their wisdom with us. I am proud to be a part of it. I have also had the honor of interviewing many of the 262 authors on their unique stories.

Find many of the authors who have interviewed with Sara and the book here.

SIT, CINDERELLA, SIT

A Mostly True Memoir

By Lisa Cheek

Coming out in January 25

Find her show with Sara here

Amy Meislin Pollack, The Adventures of Jelly Bean a trilogy of a young girls adventure, for ages 8 up.

Find her show and books here

I have had the privilege of interviewing Feroze Dada many times, and with each conversation, we venture deeper into the realms of heart and soul wisdom.

Find all his show with Sara HERE

Dr LaRay Price, Supporting women in learning about self-love and why its important

I have worked as a psychologist for 23 years and I have rarely witnessed women taking care of themselves as as they care for others. My goal is to start a revolution where women learn that self-love extends longevity. Specialty Areas: Trauma Military Medicine. Women’s Issues.

FIND HER SHOW AND LINKS HERE

At a time in the Zeitgeist stressing, the urgency for women to stand up, unite and take their power back, Carol Remz isn’t pulling any punches – it’s because menopause hit her early (mid-40s), causing a loss of libido and vaginal dryness over the next ten years. And her being married to a seven years younger husband who wouldn’t accept her declaration that sex wasn’t supposed to matter after menopause.

Find her book and show with Sara here

Elizabeth’s volunteer work with The Immigrant Story, a small nonprofit in Portland, Oregon, inspired her to write I Lived to Tell the World. Through her involvement, she heard powerful stories of resilience and hope from immigrants and refugees who had overcome incredible challenges.

Find her show with Sara here

Renaii was inspired to write The Wrong Side of the Flame, which Kirkus Reviews praised for its “literary pyrotechnics,” capturing the intensity and vibrancy of her unique subject matter. She chose to explore the lives of belly dancers, fire spitters, and dominatrixes, characters drawn from her experience as a professional belly dancer and from the vibrant culture of Renaissance Faires.

Find her book and show with Sara here

With warmth, wit, and lyrical prose, Stay offers insight for those facing mid-life challenges, parenting adult children, and battling fear and self-doubt. Above all, it’s for readers seeking to reflect, feel, laugh, and view their own path with fresh perspective.

Find her book and show with Sara here

Jenny Garufi, an acclaimed author, speaker, and healer, discovered her life purpose through a healing experience that cured seven years of illness in three weeks. Over 20 years, she has gathered tools to foster self-love and self-worth, empowering others to attract aligned relationships and circumstances. Her latest book, Mindfulness Exercises in the Shower, offers 21 days of simple exercises to kickstart your mindfulness journey.

Find her book and show with Sara Here.

Stacia Moffett, author of the Lost and Found in Tennessee series, draws on her experiences growing up in Nashville and studying in 1960s Mississippi. Her two-book historical fiction series, The Missing Girl and Jessa Is Back, explores the South’s cultural and racial legacies through stories of friendship, resilience, and identity.

Find her books and show with Sara here.

The Science of Human Possibilities with Dr. Kumar Murty presents a convincing narrative where evolution and spirituality are complementary, not competing forces...

Find his book and show with Sara here

Grinelle “Buzz” Desjarlais, author of Saving KC , the historical fiction novel set against the backdrop of post-Vietnam America which delves into the complexities of addiction, recovery and redemption.

Find the book and show with Sara here.

The culture you were raised in has likely obscured your true identity, not just from others, but from you as well. This book will explain who and what you truly are deep inside and set forth a simple process to make the most of what’s now odds-on your hidden potential. If you’re willing to take the time and expend the effort to read or listen to this book, you’ll not only learn why you’re here on Earth, you’ll discover the path to take to create the successful life you may have only dreamed of until now.

Find his book and show with Sara here

Using Quantum Healing to Create Your Reality
Exploring the new sciences of epigenetics and glycobiology.

Find her book and show with Sara here

Enfant Terrible, a work of rollercoaster literary fiction that took 15 years to complete, got its name after an expression that is normally used to describe a person known for shocking remarks or outrageous behavior, which is appropriate because the story’s main character, Damen Warner, is the front man for a metalcore band.

Find her book and show with Sara here.

Colorado native and award-winning author Lee Lindauer is an active member of the International Thriller Writers, has participated on author panels at ThrillerFest, and served as co-editor for The Big Thrill magazine.

Find all his books and show with Sara here.

Sandra Wasko-Flood, artist, poet, and founder of Living Labyrinths for Peace, inspired labyrinth walking on the U.S. Capitol’s Eastern lawn. Her book, The Labyrinth Path to Light and Peace, shares her vision of healing and peace through this transformative practice.

Find her book and show with Sara here.

Hannah Skye, a young woman in search of meaning, receives a cryptic letter from her missing and eccentric Aunt Jewelia. Her experience of a recurring powerful pumpkin patch dream unfolds into a spiritual journey to a mysterious island of eternal autumn, Maple Hollow, where she discovers the mystical Skye Manor and her magickal family legacy.

Find Megan’s books and show here.

Barbara J. Taylor, author of Rain Breaks No Bones Set in 1955, this final installment in Taylor’s best-selling Scranton Trilogy explores a family’s legacy of loss and a sometimes mystical vision of a better tomorrow.

Find her books and show with Sara Here.

THE AUTHOR MEANS IT WHEN HE SAYS YOU CAN BE BETTER THAN EVER. Embrace Your Age isn’t as sweet & forgiving as its predecessor, DEAR OLD FRIENDS. Mr. Flaherty, who says he’s an optimistic 87-year-old-going-on-60, nails your self-doubts and insecurities whether you’re 50, 60, 70, or 80+, with some direct calls to action.

Find his book and show with Sara here

In “Well of course”, author Dr. Tamara Stephens presents a transformative guide that will help you discover the extraordinary lessons that are hidden within the most ordinary experiences.

Find her show with Sara and book here

Social media sensation Marisa McGrady is the Fairy Godmother with a self-help guide that isn’t one-size-fits-all…
Modern media makes self-love seem simple. Buy a bath bomb, apply a face mask, and voila! You’ve got self love commodified and canned for your convenience. But self-love cannot be bought. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to self-care.

Find her book and show with Sara here

Stefani shares how our upbringings, societal norms, lack of self-love and others’ expectations can lead us away from our authentic selves, and how it is never too late to pause, realign and become the creator of the life you really want. Listen for practical guidance on how you can begin to redesign your life at any age and to receive inspiration about why you deserve to create a life you love.

Find her book and show with Sara here.

Judy Wilkins-Smith – World-renowned Systemic Work and Constellations Expert, Motivational Speaker, and Author of Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint: A Powerful Guide to Transformation through Disentangling Multigenerational Patterns (Sounds True) offers guidance for disentangling your inherited family patterns so you can transform your relationship with money.

Find her books and show with Sara Here.

I am a science fiction author, and I specialize in Hopepunk. Why hopepunk, and why me? Look, it’s no surprise that you can look around today and find all sorts of indicators that we are entering Heinlein’s “Crazy Years.” Imagining a dystopian or grimdark future isn’t difficult; all you have to do is read the news. But I think that we are writing the history of the future right now, by the choices we make every day.

Find his book and show with Sara here

Dare To Live Fearless: How We Took Back Our Power From Our Fears And How You Can Do It Too is a powerful compilation of stories from brave men and women around the world. In this book, you get a front-row seat into the lives of each co-author as they tell the tales of their fears and fight for freedom. You will see your fears reflected in the mirror of their stories. It’s okay. You will also find your tools in their stories.

Alexandria, a gem among Our Forgotten Children’s book authors, has dedicated years to youth work.

Find her book and shows with Sara here.

I have interviewed Richard many times and this is but one of his book.

Find his books and shows with me here.

My Self Discovery to Soul Living. Sara embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery and positive soul-living. This book navigates her early years in England, South Africa, and the USA before settling in BC, Canada. This narrative is a tale of personal evolution and an account of companionship and adventures with her beloved dogs, Kandy and Kokomo, and her children.

FIND MORE ON SARA HERE

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Sara has WRITTEN IN 4 BOOKS. BUY HERE

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C24-49. CAROL L. REMZ, PhD, Best Sex Ever.

December 2, 2024December 2, 2024Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Choose Positive Living with Sara Troy and her guest CAROL L. REMZ, PhD, on air from November 26th

What would motivate an almost 80-year-old woman (hitting the milestone Christmas Eve 2024) to write a book about the CAROL L. REMZ, PhD, Best Sex Ever After Menopause?

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When she had reclaimed her sexuality, her husband said, “Write a book. Tell your story about how you healed and changed.” Before she could raise any objections, he added, “Get help.” That came from medical and health writer and intimacy coach Molly Carter.

With the decision to write a book, Carol realized she was launching an “encore career.” Marc Freedman, author and social entrepreneur, popularized the concept. It means continuing to work in a new way in the second half of one’s life. Financial reasons can be an incentive. Carol chose applying her acquired skills and experience for positive social impact. What are they? Ten years as a teacher after receiving her BS in 1966 and MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching in 1967 from Cornell University. And for 35 years after receiving her PhD in Educational Technology from Catholic University, forming her own business that led her clients’ employees from Fortune 500 companies, federal and state agencies, private business, and non-profits to develop instructor-facilitated, video-based, and online training programs. From sales teams to health care providers, learning’s key goal was change for the better in what people do, achieve, and feel. It is the same goal for Best Sex Ever After Menopause: Through Mindset and Healing and Aphrodisiac Plants.

Carol considers her book sex ed for seniors. She gives readers validated research and applicable knowledge and skills. They’re structured into three parts: the brain being our most important sex organ, its role in our sexuality and health, and mind over matter; remedies for vaginal dryness and arousal, both pharmaceutical and natural, and Molly’s expertise in body know-how and its application “in the flesh.”

Best Sex Ever After Menopause is about a whole new paradigm of senior sexual pleasure: like fine wine, definitely better with age!

coming soon

https://drcarolremz.com

https://drcarolremz.com

https://www.facebook.com/CarolRemzPhD

carolr@hush.com

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MH24-49. Dave Tarnowski, Disappointing Affirmations

December 2, 2024December 1, 2024Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Mental Health Awareness with Sara Troy and her guest Dave Tarnawski, on air from December 3rd

Dave Tarnowski, author of Disappointing Affirmations, which is based on his popular Instagram account? “It’s OK to not be OK” is the message of the Disappointing Affirmations book, based on Dave Tarnowski’s wildly popular Instagram (@disappointingaffirmations, 2 million followers). Known for pairing peaceful nature photos with sayings that are amusingly self-critical, encouraging, disillusioned, or all three at once, Tarnowski points to feelings often unacknowledged or hidden, and spotlights them with humor, wit, and empathy. Tarnowski’s willingness to approach depression and failure with humor and pragmatism has won millions of enthusiastic fans who bristle at the culture of relentless toxic positivity. Failure may be an option, but that’s okay. As a bonus, the book’s jacket unfolds into a poster bearing a message especially popular with his fans: “Have a panic attack. You’re earned it.”

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Here’s a recent article about the book: HERE

Dave Tarnowski is the author of about a dozen unfinished novels. He turned to memes when he finally gave up his dreams of being a writer of anything longer than a few sentences. He lives in New York City with his neuroses.