That simple sentence has stayed with me—and it’s exactly why this podcast exists.

I believe everyone has a story worth telling.
 Not just the people we love, but the stranger beside us. Even you.

In each episode, I sit down with everyday people to explore the moments, memories, and meaning that shape a life—and the legacy they’ll leave behind.

These conversations are raw, real, and deeply human.
 Because when we share our stories, we connect in ways we never imagined.

🗣️ So please—record it, write it down, say it out loud.
 Your story matters. Don’t let it be lost.

🎙️ Life’s Rich Tapestry — new episodes coming soon.

#LifesRichTapestry #LegacyStories #ShareYourStory #PodcastAnnouncement #StorytellingMatters #FuneralCelebrant #EveryLifeMatters

Here’s the link for Ultra Trail Australia (UTA) https://uta.utmb.world 

For Shruthi’s Blog click on the following link 

https://medium.com/@shruthirao/my-first-100k-ultra-run-in-the-heart-of-the-blue-mountains-d007cdd3226d

Here is Shru’s Strava profile:  https://www.strava.com/athletes/rao_shruti

You can contact her via:  instagram https://www.instagram.com/riturhs

or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shrurao2

Listen in on this podcast  with Dr Forcina as he shares his personal story growing up in a small village in Italy, moving to Argentina where his family struggled  to make ends meet, and how his parents hard work and sacrifice inspired him to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor

Despite facing numerous challenges – including learning a new language and being an immigrant , … Dr Forcina, preserverd and ultimately achieved his goal.

To purchase his book –

https://www.amazon.com.au/American-Doctor-Salvatore-J-Forcina/dp/1592112099

Dr. Salvatore Forcina's book, The American Doctor:
 Key Takeaways:

1.   Regardless of your origins or initial circumstances, success hinges on both education and resilience

2.   Success remains achievable through dedication and strategic planning.

3.    Thriving in any competitive arena demands diligence, resolve, and a readiness to adjust to shifting conditions.

Reviews

"The prose is clear and straightforward, and the author painstakingly re-creates everyday events as well as notable moments of sorrow and achievement--the many elements that make up a good life." --Kirkus Reviews.
 
 "A memoir that reinforces the spirit of working toward a better tomorrow and always believing in yourself." --K.C. Finn of Readers Favorite.
 
 "A truly captivating book that includes several intriguing themes - including Italian food, friendship, loss, prejudice, family, cancer, medicine, and jealousy." --Foluso Falaye of Readers Favorite.
 
 "This book felt like I was reliving the author's life. I cannot recommend it enough for those looking for an emotional rollercoaster ride." --Joanne Ang of Readers Favorite. 

Julie Nelson, has been a practicing astrologer for 27 years, her 'Sacred Soul Astrology' reading is an enlightening and healing experience that will ultimately connect you with the brilliant sparkle that lies within your soul.

A personalised astrology reading can help you to re-align with your inner sparkle as you embody the full brilliance of your soul’s potential.

Her greatest joy in her business is to work one on one with you.

Is your soul calling for you to take this journey with Julie? Are you ready to dive into a world of Astrology?

Contact Julie – 

https://www.julienelson.com.au/rich-witch-academy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienelsonperfumer/

https://www.facebook.com/julienelsonrichwitchartisanperfumer

https://www.instagram.com/julienelsonrichwitch/?hl=en

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/auroralimusic/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086947323723

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCviHKZaWbMsFTAoyd_CptP

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/theriverli/

 https://www.instagram.com/auroramli/

Website -https://auroralimusic.wixsite.com/website

Join me in this heart-warming and raw story.  Helen is a popular resident at the Blake, and a much loved family member.   Helen Houda Tomczak was born on the 5th of January 1923 in Chicago.  She has 5 children, 10 grandchildren and 17 grandchildren.  She was married to Walter for 76 glorious years, he passed away at the age of 99.   Her strong faith in God, long marriage, loving family, being with people, playing golf, embracing technology and dealing with whatever situation is thrown her way has led to her leading a full and rich life.

In this episode discover

• Book which changed his life
• Importance of knowing your life path through your birthday
• When his interest in Numerology/ Astrology began?
• History of Numerology
• What is a soul’s Blue Print?
• Inspiration for writing his book “A Different Drummer
• Collective year VS Personal year
• How different is it applying for a job currently 
• Difference with the new generation being born in 2000 versus those born in 1900s
• What do you love the most about your job

For personal readings, retreats, courses, and Events – 

https://adifferentdrummer.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/adifferentdrummer7/

https://www.instagram.com/a_different_drummer_book/

www.janemeredith.com

Fascinated by magical systems, myth, fairytale, and the vivid natural world we are part of.

Jane teaches distance courses online as well as presenting at conferences, festivals and teaching in-person workshops across the world. 

Jane is a registered Marriage Celebrant in Australia and performs legal weddings as well as handfastings, namings and other ceremonies.

Her upcoming events include

Embodied Kabbalah - Falling through the Tree of Life 

Online, 11 sessions (monthly) 
 Starts February 26, 8am-10:30am Sydney time

To register click on following link -

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIKjzyDE8_bbjM-F5RRiqRZAspr2mIvWSNJIfg_ccySutwsw/viewform

Glastonbury Goddess Conference 

Jane will be a presenter at the Goddess Conference
 Fringe workshop: The Gates of Wisdom
 Sunday July 30. 10am-4pm. £60

To register click on following link –

https://goddessconference.com/product/fringe-ticket/

To contact Jane –

jane@janemeredith.com

https://www.instagram.com/janemeredithauthor/

https://www.facebook.com/JaneMeredithAuthor/

https://twitter.com/janemere22

(Resources will be updated as necessary – if you have resources from your country please email me at evelyn@lifesrichtapestry.com.au )

If you are at risk

If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger, call 000.

National

1800RESPECT
 (1800 737 732)

The National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

24 hours, 7 days a week.

www.1800respect.org.au

Lifeline  (13 11 14)  A national number which can help put you in contact with a crisis service in your state.

24 hours, 7 days a week. www.lifeline.org.au

Blue Knot This is a support service for adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse, parents, partners, family and friends. Phone 1300 657 380, 9 am-5 pm, 7 days a week.

Kids Helpline  Kids Helpline is a free, confidential phone counselling service for young people aged 5-25 years. It also offers webchat and email counselling. Phone 1800 551 800, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

https://au.reachout.com/articles/sexual-assault-support-service

health.nsw.gov.auhttps://www.health.nsw.gov.au › se...Resources for victims and families - Sexual assault - NSW Health

 Resource for parents 

Braveheartshttps://bravehearts.org.au › 
Raising Children Networkhttps://raisingchildren.net.au › sexu...Child sexual abuse & assault: resources 

WHO  https://www.who.int/health-topics/violence-against-children#tab=tab_1

NSVRC  https://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/files/Publications_NSVRC_Booklets_Global-perspectives-on-sexual-violence.pdf

National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS)

https://www.rainn.org/statistics/children-and-teens

CDC   - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (.gov)https://www.cdc.gov › fastfactFast Facts: Preventing Child Sexual Abuse |Violence Prevention|Injury Center|CDC

UNICEF  https://www.unicef.org/media/89206/file/CSAE-Brief-v3.pdf

 World vision AUST.  World Vision Australiahttps://www.worldvision.com.au › c...Child Abuse - Facts, Stories & How We Can End It

Join me with writer, poet, and author Myler Hughes as we talk about goal setting.

Find out about Voice dialogue and Personas, how they help us to create the life we are truly meant to live.

We also discussed the SMART goal system developed by George Doran, Arthur Miller, and James Cunningham .

Specific: What are you trying to do? 

Measurable: How will you measure what you are doing? 

Attainable: With the tools that you have can you reach your goal? What sort of action will you do?

Realistic: Can you actually meet the goals you are setting forth? 

Timely: What is the timeline to meet your goals? Deadline

 Relaunching on the 29th of January with more exciting episodes of Life’s Rich Tapestry.

To connect with Myler  - https://www.instagram.com/mylerhughes/

Zoe Alexander – is a certified Coach, Trainer and Assessor, healer and Meditation teacher.  With over 20 years experience she has helped individuals, teams and organisations connect to what really matters, change what doesn’t and clearly define their own unique way forward.  She is the founder of Heart2Shine which focuses on spiritual life coaching , mindfulness and self-improvement courses.

To Contact Zoe -

zoe@heart2shine.com

https://www.heart2shine.com/

https://www.facebook.com/heart2shine

https://www.instagram.com/heart2shine/

Zoe Alexander – is a certified Coach, Trainer and Assessor, healer and Meditation teacher.  With over 20 years experience she has helped individuals, teams and organisations connect to what really matters, change what doesn’t and clearly define their own unique way forward.  She is the founder of Heart2Shine which focuses on spiritual life coaching , mindfulness and self-improvement courses.

To Contact Zoe -

zoe@heart2shine.com

https://www.heart2shine.com/

https://www.facebook.com/heart2shine

https://www.instagram.com/heart2shine/

This episode is a guided meditation from Zoe Alexandar.

Zoe Alexander – is a certified Coach, Trainer and Assessor, healer and Meditation teacher.  With over 20 years experience she has helped individuals, teams and organisations connect to what really matters, change what doesn’t and clearly define their own unique way forward.  She is the founder of Heart2Shine which focuses on spiritual life coaching , mindfulness and self-improvement courses.

To Contact Zoe -

zoe@heart2shine.com

https://www.heart2shine.com/

https://www.facebook.com/heart2shine

https://www.instagram.com/heart2shine/

To Contact Zoe -

zoe@heart2shine.com

https://www.heart2shine.com/

https://www.facebook.com/heart2shine

https://www.instagram.com/heart2shine/

My next guest Charlotte Appleby, aka “The English Tailoress”,  founder of Couture Bead Masters, is a British Couture dress designer, trained at London College of Fashion in Handcraft and Production tailoring. 

She has previously worked within the fashion, film, and theatre industries.

Her passion for couture beading has seen her become one of the leading educators in the world running workshops and online courses teaching specialist skills executed in her work.

In the Media

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYPp7lbtFg0

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=479001196094383

Contact Charlotte

info@couturebeadmasters.com

https://www.instagram.com/couturebeadmasters/

https://www.facebook.com/Couturebeadmasters/

Veechi is proud to be part of the creative community in the Blue Mountains and loves finding ways to make the arts accessible to as many people as possible.

Some questions answered -

• • When did your interest in writing start ?  
  • Writing for the newspaper how was that experience ?
  • Experience working for the “Dummies” guide ?
  • What is it about Non fiction writing that you like ?
  • Experience of writing up her bestselling Blue Mountains Best Bushwalks which is the perfect companion for the bushwalking fan now in its third edition.
  • History of Varuna ?
  • When vetting potential writers for residence what do you look for ?
  • What is the process of writing a book ? 
  • Any tips for potential writers ? 
  •  Advice for those who might be interested in pursuing a career in writing?
  • Fiction VS Nonfiction ?  What sells the most ?
  • How has the internet changed the landscape for writers?
  • What do you love most about your job?

https://www.varuna.com.au/

Blue Mountains Best Bushwalks

Author(s): Veechi Stuart

The third edition of the bestselling Blue Mountains Best Bushwalks is the perfect companion for the bushwalking fan. The book features: 66 different walks, varying in length from 30 minutes to two days Accurate, full colour maps and step by step directions. Detailed walk statistics including distance, total ascent/descent, grade and estimated time. Detailed information on Blue Mountains History and Natural Environment. Walking ideas for families with children, including safety tips. Over 150 full colour photographs. With over 4 million Australians now regularly walking for fun and fitness, this guide book is the perfect companion for any Sydney-sider looking to bust out of the city and explore the raw beauty of the NSW Blue Mountains.

https://www.megalongbooks.com.au/p/blue-mountains-blue-mountains-best-bushwalks-the-bestselling-colour-guide-to-over-60-fantastic-walks

Her life hasn’t always been about laughs and we are here today to see "how comedy helped her recover from trauma".

If you are interested in giving the open mic night a try at Katoomba, you can contact Amanda at amandagray6@gmail.com 

Check out other events or enjoy a lovely meal at one of Katoomba's most iconic restaurants.

https://www.avalonkatoomba.com.au/ 

It was a bit strange being on the receiving side of the interview table, I totally understand why some guests might get a bit nervous.

We started at the beginning and uncovered some challenging episodes in my life.  Some chapters have not been exactly what I envisioned or not particularly proud of – but all events have shaped me into the person I am today.

I would love any sort of feedback evelyn@lifesrichtapestry.com.au or 

DM me  www.instagram.com/lifesrichtapestry.podcast/?hl=en

One of her desires is to dress women with thrifted one-off pieces and encourage sustainable fashion.  She also runs workshops and one on one consults as a Sustainable Stylist.

Whether you visit her shop, attend a workshop or prefer a private consultation, her keen eye for detail, fashion sense, and true understanding of the current fashion trends empower all of her clients.  

Visit her shop at 2/118 Katoomba Street, Katoomba

Open Thursday - Sunday from 10.30 

Check out her Instagram where you can buy pre-loved pieces – Posts all over the world..

https://www.instagram.com/_sal_on/

My next guest Julie Nelson is a leading therapist, artisan botanical perfumer and has been a driving force at the forefront of this field throughout its transition from an alternate therapy to the highly recognised and commonplace therapy it is today.

Julie also has the Rich Witch Academy teaching women how to rise unapologetically using the Art of Magick.

“Our sense of smell is our most powerful sense and has a direct link to the limbic brain, once known as the smell brain or survival brain. When we inhale a scent that we resonate with we are immediately emotionally uplifted. We experience a shift in mindset, moods and emotions. This, in turn, strengthens the nervous system and immune system.”

Julie Nelson

Julie’s magick is creating Bespoke Perfumes for women who are ready to step up into their next level in their business and personal life. These intentional perfume creations are designed with passion and purpose and act as an extension of the wearer, capturing the essence of her beautiful feminine self and igniting her soul.

Her greatest joy in her business is to work one on one with you, supporting you with your emotional, psychological and physical health and wellbeing using beautiful botanical extracts and Aromatic Medicine.

Is your soul calling for you to take this journey with Julie? Are you ready to dive into a world of magick and pleasure and, Rise Unapologetically?

Contact Julie – 

https://www.julienelson.com.au/rich-witch-academy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienelsonperfumer/

https://www.facebook.com/julienelsonrichwitchartisanperfumer

https://www.instagram.com/julienelsonrichwitch/?hl=en

Research has shown that the health benefits of laughter are far-ranging. Studies so far have shown that laughter can help relieve pain, bring greater happiness, and even increase immunity

Laughter quotes shared –

 “ I never would have made it if I could not have laughed. It lifted me momentarily out of this horrible situation, just enough to make it livable. “ — Viktor Frankl  author of Man's Search for Meaning 1946 book chronicling his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II

“Laughter connects you with people. It’s almost impossible to maintain any kind of distance or any sense of social hierarchy when you’re just howling with laughter. Laughter is a force for democracy.” — John Cleese

“Laughter has no foreign accent.” — Paul Lowney

Guests in my compilation

EP 14 - Neville Burns-- With over 60 years experience, Neville has built a reputation as ‘the best in the business’ as far as educating people about venomous snakes. 

 https://www.facebook.com/CrocBurns

EP 11- David J.G. Doyle is a Freelance voice actor, singer, and voice director.  

David is the head of Imagivotion. A YouTube channel dedicated to making a variety of animations, from fan films to original shows.

 http://www.davidjgdoyle.com 

  Imagivotion - YouTube 

EP – 13 Aurora Li has been making music for as long as she can remember. . Accompanying herself on guitar and piano, Aurora has performed professionally since the age of 14

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/auroralimusic/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCviHKZaWbMsFTAoyd_CptPw

EP – 15 - Jayne  Newling is a journalist with 25 years experience with print media.   In 2014 -  "Missing Christopher" - her memoir about the suicide of her middle son was published by Allen & Unwin and in that same year it won the Human Rights Award for literature.  

missingchristopher.com 

facebook.com/missingchristophernewling

EP 30 – Fiona and Bobby are award-winning photographers who describe themselves as A little quirky, a little sassy, a little goofy, a little romantic, and an artistically driven duo who think outside the triangle. 

To contact Fiona and Bobby click on the link below

https://fionaandbobby.com/contact/ 

Check out their fabulous work click on the links below

https://fionaandbobby.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/fionaandbobby/ 

A Laugh 
Poet: Ripley Dunlap Saunders
 
A laugh is just like sunshine,
It freshens all the day.
It tips the peak of life with light
And drives the clouds away.
The soul grows glad that hears it
And feels its courage strong;
A laugh is just like sunshine
For cheering folks along.
 
A laugh is just like music,
It lingers in the heart,
And where its melody is heard,
The ills of life depart;
And happy thoughts come crowding
Its joyful notes to greet;
A laugh is just like music
For making living sweet!

Professional photography is an essential part of any wedding as it involves capturing everything that goes on during the wedding day. While items such as flowers, decor, and attire wilt or are put in storage after the wedding day, your wedding photographs are items that exist long after the celebration to remind you of every single detail of the day.

They describe themselves as A little quirky, a little sassy, a little goofy, a little romantic, and an artistically driven duo who think outside the triangle. 

Questions answered -

·      When did your interest in photography start?

·      How did you meet?

·      When did you decide that you wanted to start your own business?  

·      Benefits of working together?  

·      When a couple contacts you what are your first initial steps? 

·      How far will you travel for a job?

·      Do you have a limit on how many weddings you photograph in a month?

·      Turn around for photos?

·      Do you have a distinct style?

·      What do you love most about taking wedding photos? 

·      What do you do about Weather challenges for photos?  

·      What is the most important thing for celebrants to consider?

·      What other sort of photo projects are you working on?  Boudoir? 

To contact Fiona and Bobby click on the link below

https://fionaandbobby.com/contact/

Check out their fabulous work click on the links below

https://fionaandbobby.com/

https://www.instagram.com/fionaandbobby/

https://www.facebook.com/FionaandBobby/

https://www.pinterest.com.au/FionaandBobby/_created/

Nic has reached millions of people through television, live talks, radio, print, online, documentaries, and eHealth programs. He strives to make a continuing positive impact utilizing sharing and listening to encourage helpful, unscripted conversations around mental health, suicide prevention, and getting the most out of life.

Questions answered

• Let’s start at the beginning, where did you grow up, ?
• Tell us a little bit about your family ?
• When did you realize that you weren’t coping mentally ?
• What sort of help did you get at the beginning ?
• What was not helpful ? helpful ?
• When did you decide that you wanted to help people learn from your experience?
• Black Dog Institute, Australian Story, etc
• When did you start The Champions?
• Do you find that teenagers have more challenges/pressures now then say 10 years ago?
• What sort of effect has COVID had on Mental Health?
• What tools are the most helpful for teenagers?
• What is the value of sharing personal stories?
• What do you love most about your job?

To contact Nic

https://www.thechampions.org/contact

https://www.instagram.com/thechampionsorg/

MEDIA –

Australian Story

Conversations with Sarah Kanowsi

ABC News

9 News

TODAY Show (NBC)

Huffington Post

WIN News

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-04-13/nic-newling-bipolar-disorder-recovery-mental-illness/6386978

She was drawn to a career in hairdressing and found it gave her a deep insight into human behaviour, social structures, and family dynamics. In 2009 She opened a salon in Forster, NSW specializing in Dreadlocks with a few years later setting up Dreadlocks Sydney.

 Ginny has been fortunate to combine both her love of dreadlocks and the healing arts creating two sustainable businesses.  Not only does she create dreadlocks and heal with the tarot, but offers both skills in the form of workshops and training.

Questions answered 

·      Let’s start at the beginning, where did you grow up? what sort of family – brothers, sisters, etc 

• Your love of tarot started in your teens, how did this interest develop? what drew you to the tarot, a specific deck?
• Explain what Tarot is ? difference between clairvoyant, intuitive readings ? Etc
• What spread do you find is the most beneficial ? etc
• When did you start hairdressing ?  
• When did Interest in dreadlocks start ?
• Explain the process of a dreadlock ?  or how do you get dreadlocks ..misconception that they can’t be washed, is this true, is it your own hair or weaved in with other hair?
• Can someone learn how to do their own dreadlocks?
• When did you move to the Blue Mountains ? start your business ?
• Do you find currently in 2022 there is a more keen interest in Tarot ?  why is that?  More interest in individual readings or group readings?  What do you prefer?  Online – how does that work?
• How is tarot linked to Psychology ?  Carl Jung?
• What sort of workshops do you offer ?  Where?
• What is the thing you love the most about what you do?

Contact Ginny – 

0420 984 481

https://www.instagram.com/leadinglightcollective/

https://www.instagram.com/ginny_shearer

https://www.dreadlockssydney.com/

https://adifferentdrummer.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/adifferentdrummer7

Questions answered -

• Let’s start at the beginning, where did you grow up, study, earlier jobs ?
• When was it decided that you would work with your father ?
• How has the transition been from Hotels to the funeral industry ?
• How has the funeral industry changed ?
• What about regulations amongst different states in Australia ?
• What does the Australian Funeral Directors Association do ?  
• What is a No service Cremation, What has the trend been/
• How has Covid changed the funeral industry ?
• What do you find the most challenging?
• What has been the most interesting request at a ceremony?
• Most requested song? 
• What is the thing you love the most about your job?

https://bluemountainsfunerals.com.au

https://gracefunerals.com.au/

Penrith: 02 4735 6900 | North Shore: 02 9953 6900 |Blue Mountains: 02 4751 6166 

https://www.facebook.com/gracefuneralssydney

https://www.instagram.com/gracefuneralssydney/

https://www.facebook.com/bluemountainsfunerals

Listen in on a deep and vulnerable conversation with Justin  - discussing mental health, being truly present in life’s moments, the benefits of learning to be kind,  his transformational moment with his wife during their 25-year anniversary, and also discussing Justin's 4 levels of Happiness …

#1 – External Beauty -  beauty in going out in nature, holidays

#2 – Accomplishing goals

#3 – Serving other people not thinking about yourself – being selfless not selfish -  happiness in volunteering – we have so much in common. – find that we are all connected

#4 – Spiritual Connection – in any culture, we are all seeking a connection to that higher power – being vulnerable in those moments

Would love any feedback –

Please email me at evelyn@lifesrichtapestry.com.au 

I am very honoured to have Kiara on Life’s Rich Tapestry to share her story.

Some questions answered

• Tell us a little about your now-husband ?  How did you meet, etc …
• When did you decide to get married?
• What were the first suppliers you booked?  Why did you choose your venue?
• When did you realize that you needed to rebook?
• When rebooking what was the most important thing that you had to take into account?
• Was it difficult to get the same vendors?
• When you had to rebook the second time, how were you feeling? The third time? 4th time?
• Was there any difficulty with any of the suppliers?
• Were there difficulties in your relationship because of the Pandemic?
• When it finally happened, was it what you expected?
• What was the most unexpected thing that happened on your wedding day?
• What lessons did you learn from this experience?

Some photos of Kiara's day, please click on link.

https://www.instagram.com/bluemountains.celebrant/

End of Life Guide and Doula | Death Educator & Advocate | Funeral and Memorial Celebrant | Grief and Loss Navigator

She first discovered her desire to demystify and normalize dying and death at a fairly young age, after experiencing several impactful deaths in her immediate family.  ​She has committed 25+ years to both personal and professional development, ongoing research, and industry-relevant formal study. She has over a decade of applied experience in providing love-guided support, service, care, and advocacy for families and individuals at end of life stages and thereafter.  She also is an author of “Many Rivers to Cross” which chronicles her caregivers' journey through her sister’s terminal illness diagnosis.

Lisa serves to educate and support her community in dealing with end-of-life processes.  This includes providing services as an end-of-life doula, a death educator, mentor, and advocate, to assist with pre-planning end-of-life options, running workshops, creating tender farewells, and providing space for grief journeying and expressing emotions through grief circles.

Discover Lisa’s

• Interest in death, when did that start?
• What/who were the impactful deaths in her family?
• Tell us a bit about your sister?
• Through caring for your sister, what were valuable lessons you learned?
• When you wrote your book, what was your main objective?  
• How do you become a death doula?
• What made you become a funeral/memorial celebrant?
• What is Death Literacy?
• What trends do you see in the funeral industry?  

And so much more.

To get in contact with Lisa -

https://www.lisapotterservices.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/lisa.potterlifeanddeath/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/lisa.potter.106

For Lisa’s Book

https://www.amazon.com.au/Many-Rivers-Cross-Lisa-Potter/dp/1291785892

There are various life events when mental health issues can surface, the death of a parent, the loss of a job, COVID lockdown, etc   Mental illness can also be hereditary.

Talking about mental health has thankfully become more mainstream.

Listen in on a candid and honest conversation with my guest Adrianna, who shares her mental health journey.

Important resources and takeaways -

A helpful tool has been an app called “Fear tools”. It’s free to download and it’s basically a phone journal to track and work through your feelings. Another tool is the “feelings wheel” you can download from feelingswheel.com..

Music has been a source of comfort to Adrianna. Specifically artists like Elohim E-L-O-H-I-M.   https://elohimxelohim.com/

Importance of Grounding.

Other life hacks - 

·       keep active whether that’s in the gym or getting outside going for a simple walk 

·       Stretching and yoga 

·       practicing grounding

·       Meditation 

·       Having a well balanced diet

·       Taking natural supplements like lemon balm 

Brands like Rare beauty also give back when it comes to mental health not only with their purchases but also they have educational articles on their website https://www.rarebeauty.com/  and offer support by outlining resources you can reach out to 

It’s all a learning curve and it takes a lot of time to practice self-care. But when you do, the results are invaluable.

Flowers are a key component of any wedding or special event; they add extra color, texture, and feeling to your special day. Flowers are an important part of creating the feeling or setting the mood with their beauty, color, elegance, and style. The use of flowers is a form of expression and is also used as an element of design.

  All of Tash’s designs are curated to truly fit every clients unique style and bring a touch of magic to your special day.

Tash offers floral services for clients in different areas of New South Wales.

Questions answered –

·      When did your interest in Floristry start?

·      When did you decide that you wanted to start your own business?

·      Should a couple consider doing their own flowers for their wedding?

·      How Tash organized her flowers for her wedding?

·      Best way to select a florist?

·      When meeting with clients what sort of questions do you ask them to get a feel of their day?  

·      Do specific flowers suit certain seasons?  Are their flowers which are in season all year round?

·      Do you find clients tend to ask for specific flowers or colours ?

·      What is the most important floral arrangement for a wedding?  Ie .. the bride's bouquet, decorations, etc

·      Work with client’s budgets?  What is a good estimate to budget for?

Get in touch with TASH

https://www.instagram.com/theflowercottage.au/

https://www.theflowercottage.com.au/

theflowercottage.au@gmail.com

Some of us, are ok with our style changes as we age, were as others might need a bit of help.

My next guest Yolanda Taylor, CEO, and Founder of, At The Style Table, is a fashion and lifestyle blog openly discussing the challenges of women over 50 helping them increase their confidence, self-acceptance, and everlasting sexiness.  

She offers style and image consulting for entrepreneurs, and everyday women who want to update and or transition their style through the aging process. Inspiring and supporting women is her daily mission.

Absolute gems of advice, insight, and inspiration peppered throughout the podcast.

Based near Washington DC, Yolanda offers in-person and virtual consultations.

Check out her blog –

https://www.atthestyletable.com/blog/

Subscribe to her YouTube Channel – At the Style Table LLC

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLMdqDgzJ3btZrnjY2a4rJg?app=desktop

https://www.instagram.com/atthestyletable/

Facebook – At the Style Table  https://www.facebook.com/Yotaylorlife

Private Facebook Group – Style, Closets and Diva Dens https://www.facebook.com/groups/2758931320874105

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolanda-taylor-90251a28/

Comfortable high heels mentioned in the podcast https://inez.com/ 

 Charlotte reflects on her past year -  they say the first year is the hardest, but also I want to talk about her wedding… some of things she was happy with,   in hindsight what she would have done differently, anything a waste of money, etcetera ….  A bit of advice for potential couples …

 Some questions answers -

·      Start of her relationship – how they met ?

·      Engagement story

·      What was the most important thing for Charlotte – this might surprise you

·      What did you look for in the venue, 

·      How did you select the celebrant – yes I did marry Charlotte and James

·      What to look for in a celebrant ?

·      What did you look for in the Photographer

·      Thoughts on not hiring a videographer

·      An important thing Charlotte did the day before the wedding

·      What would have you done differently, highlight of your day

·      Anything a waste money

·      MC/ DJ

·      Cake , etc

Suggestions shared in the interview, are what has worked for Charlotte.  Some of these ideas might help you if you are planning a wedding or big event.

Check out Charlottes new business if you are in need of amazingly yummy goodness and live in the Blue Mountains, NSW Australia area.

https://www.instagram.com/allmyloveinateacupcakes/

https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=all%20my%20love%20in%20a%20teacup%20cakes

Her passion for outdoor sports would lead her into guiding in Australia and overseas for many years before ultimately becoming an Outdoor education Teacher.

Her world was changed forever when she would go in for routine surgery on a herniated disc and woke up to find she had become a quadriplegic.

Candid, heartfelt, and courageous conversation with SJ.  Nuggets of inspiration and wisdom peppered throughout the interview. 

Some Questions answered and more

• Start at the beginning – Where did you grow up?
• Your interest in sports when did that develop?  Was there someone in your family or mentor who inspired your passion for sports?
• When did you start Skiing?  Favorite place to ski ….  How long were you working in Canada?
• What made you move to the Blue Mountains?
• What were the circumstances leading to the routine surgery?
• Your world has changed forever – what steps did you take for transition – services required, were they helpful …
• New way of living – how has this changed your relationships /perspective ?
• How did the Heart Project come about?
• Recreation was a huge part of your life, how have you been able to re-create it?

HEART PROJECT LINKS _

https://www.theheartproject.com.au/project-sj/

https://www.theheartproject.com.au/vonwong1-wq/

She has a track record of picking the hard tasks; resuscitating the music industry, as the Blue Mountains Music Hunter since 2010, which she founded as a response to a need for increased opportunities for musicians and audiences in the upper Blue Mountains and beyond. The main focus has been to enrich the cultural landscape by curating a wide diversity of music, with excellence being the common denominator, and in so doing contributing to the cohesion of the community. Music Hunter has run over 200 events with audience capacities between 70 and 1500, of course during the Covid pandemic, strict adherence to Government restrictions regarding social distancing and crowd numbers were followed.

The interview is filled with a who’s who of past and current musicians, nuggets of inspiration, and an insight into what makes Meg the resilient and strong woman that she is.

https://www.musichunter.com.au/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC03eRCj-Plt9MEQesk22Otg

The organization's membership exceeds 300,000 in almost 16,000 clubs in 149 countries.

Toastmasters runs the World Championship of Public Speaking.  This competition is held annually at its International Convention in August.  It started in 1938 and involves over 33,000 participants in 141 countries, making it the world's largest oratory contest.  There is a six-month process of elimination to reach the semi-finals.

On today's show, I am very honored to have the 2021, 2nd place winner of the World Championship of Public Speaking, Nitay-Yair Levi .

Welcome to the show Nitay ….

Some questions answered

• Why did you join Toastmasters?
• When did you first hear about Toastmasters?
• Why did you join? How long have you been a member?
• What clubs do you belong to?
• Where you drawn to enter in competitions?
• How did you prepare for your comp speech?
• What do you value most about TM?
• Public Speaking as an artform
• Paradigm shift of immersive speaking
• What are Foundational Sounds

2nd place: Toastmasters International 2021 World Championship of Public Speaking® second place winner Nitay-Yair Levi. Watch his speech titled "Advice for Life." 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS4vis-0_yw

"The Scars Of Our Past" Nitay-Yair Levi Semi-Finals Speech 2021 World Championship of Public Speaking

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrirtJCBqZk

More nuggets of information from Nitay while on the “Unforgettable Presentations” podcast with other World Championship Winners, Darren LaCroix, and Mark Brown.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W0m5X70cxE

57 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.

1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

About 1 in 700 men are diagnosed in their lifetime.

In the last 10 years, breast cancer diagnosis have increased by 36%.

In August 2018, my next guest, Maryanne, who at that time was 48 years old, is a bold and independent woman who forges on in life with enthusiasm, honesty and a bit of self-deprecating humour, finds her whole world rocked with a diagnosis of Stage 4 Breast Cancer.

She’s here today to tell her story .

 Some Questions answered - 

With the various stages of breast cancer, can you explain the stages ?

What sort of treatment ?  has your diet changed?

Have you noticed changes in personal relationships and what have they been ?

How has your perspective changed ?  

Has your attitude towards life changed ?  

What advice would you give those ?

Your relationship with your partner, son, family – how has that changed..

ETC, ETC, ETC

Helpful Resources –

https://www.bcna.org.au/

 1800 500 258

https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au

02 8962 6100

Christopher died at midnight on August 29, 2002 and unbeknownst to her and her husband Phil, at the exact moment he jumped from the headland at Avalon Beach their youngest son Nic was at home on the phone to Lifeline.

"Missing Christopher" is the story of her middle son's shocking death and its tragic aftermath for the family. It's also a story of a mother and father's love and their determination not to lose another son to the temptation of taking his own life.  

Since publication she has been promoting mental health and suicide prevention through media, the medical and teaching professions, to those suffering from mental illness or their carers and those bereaved by the loss of a loved one. Her son Nic is devoting his life to suicide prevention. He is an ambassador for Australia Day, Movember and RUOK Day. He travels around Australia presenting his inspirational story of loss, mental illness and hope to schoolchildren.

missingchristopher.com 

facebook.com/missingchristophernewling

Booktopia: bit.ly/1hclSEu

iTunes / iBooks: bit.ly/1tN884Y

Amazon: bit.ly/1gzgNp6

His insatiable passion would see adventurous travels through-out Australia encountering many snakes and meeting like-minded Herpetologists .

With over 60 years experience, Neville has built a reputation as ‘the best in the business’ as far as educating people about venomous snakes. 

Neville is by nature a storyteller endowed with a wry and quintessentially Australian sense of humour.  This trait has served him well when he presented shows in wildlife parks, educated attendees at reptile demonstrations or while lecturing students. 

Neville has appeared on television,  been a columnist for two reptile magazines, produced educational D.V.D.’s, is a published Author, and sought after speaker.

And Today he is with me on Life’s Rich Tapestry, 

 You will find out in this indepth interview --

That Neville was an Animal handler for the Skippy the Bush Kangaroo a popular TV show in the late 60s.

His adventurous spirit taking off to Far North Queensland at 16 years of age.

Brown snake that bit him on the 23 March 1969

Wing Chung and his up and coming book

How the popularity of Crocodile Dundee influenced his business

Questions about Snakes answered  –

 Why snakes like bat colonies ?

 Clarify between  Deadly VS Venomous Snakes? 

Do Snakes have personalities  -

How is antivenom produced ?

What is the procedure if you are bitten ? if you step on a snake

If bitten and survive do you become more resistant to the next bite or less resistant?

Snakes in the Blue Mountains compared to other places in Australia?  Elevation affect where snakes are, 

Why are there so many venomous snakes in Australia

The difference in Snakes in America 

Some snakes lay eggs or live snakes – what is the difference

What do snakes eat, diet?

Can snakes chase you, how fast do they travel?

 https://www.facebook.com/CrocBurns

They were welcoming to all of the students, immersing them in the Aussie culture, cooking delicious meals, and also encouraging students to cook their native dishes.  I was told by one of my students from Hong Kong that Dick cooked chicken feet better than any Chinese cook.  His Asian dishes were the talking point of many of his students. The young students related well to Dick and affectionately called him “Boss”.  Debby and Dick were known for their social gatherings and on a few occasions I would drop off my students at their home and even join in on the festivities.  I met their son, Dave, on one such occasion, a handsome young charismatic young man in his mid-20s, dazzling smile with deep-set eyes.  I remember thinking at that point, no wonder all of my young female students want to visit.

It was an exciting 5 years, of being exposed to different cultures, relating to young adults, and developing lifelong friendships. When I stopped the homestay program in 2013, I had shared my home with 39 international students.  

Debby and Dick continued to share their home with international students.  In 2015, the unthinkable happened.

Listen in on Debby’s courageous and heartfelt journey.

He has worked on projects ranging from video games, animation, radio commercials, and his own radio program. His specialty and true passion are character voices in animation and games.

Today’s show is a mix of Voice Acting education, a bit of name dropping of the Voice Acting elite, voice exercises, and pure entertainment as David’s versatile voice switches from a myriad of accents, characters, and impressions – I was literally blown away, at one point even proclaiming my love.

"Disclaimer: David meant to say Freddy Jones, not Shaggy Rogers... He realised that just after the podcast was released and feels like he shamed the community, but will get over it if he hasn't already".

David J.G. Doyle is a Freelance voice actor, singer, and voice director.  David lives in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney and usually works from his home studio online. When David is not voice acting or performing, he enjoys reading, poetry, art, anime, games, rock and classical music, and martial arts.

David is the head of Imagivotion. A YouTube channel dedicated to making a variety of animations, from fan films to original shows.

 http://www.davidjgdoyle.com 

  Imagivotion - YouTube 

Do you need a low and powerful voice, a smooth vocal delivery, a cunning villain, a huge thug, a tough hero, perhaps a high-class gentleman, or even a completely off-the-wall character? Do you need a classically trained, bass singer for your project? Then David is your man!

Maria -  “I love the fact that life is just so fluid, full of surprises, some great, some not so great. I believe that in my world I have choices and free will. This was particularly true,  I faced the discomfort of my husband's skin and gut issue in 2015. 

I had two choices,  to succumb to the panic of uncertainty as I watched his skin deteriorate and sleepless nights, or go all out and look for solutions and answers!

I chose the latter and frankly feel so blessed to have done so. 

Here is a brief 20 mins or so of our story.

"We retired in April 2015 and planned to travel... initially to Port Douglas

Lee had a small skin issue, the size of a thumbnail on his shoulder. It had been there for about 40 years. It was dry, itchy and sometimes it wept. He treated it with Dr prescribed strong ointments, which were just masking the problem.  Overnight this issue flared up all over his body!

After 10 weeks of many expensive treatments, lots of driving in absolute discomfort, making lots of lifestyle changes, Drs. and Naturopaths, there was no answer...

 I, in the meantime, searched all over the place!... looking for an answer. It was then a friend reached out and told me about this new technology on the market.
 We learned how to use it correctly and within 4 days, Lee's skin & gut condition disappeared. It literally transformed him!

So what's around the corner? 

That one phone call our friend made to us, changed our world forever! We are now both 100% healthy and happy people.

What did I learn? 

That every situation has a Silver Lining! You just have to look for it.

If this resonates, I would love to connect and share more of our health journey's details with you.

Thank you for taking the time to listen

Maria Hopwood-Jones

+61 413 568 901

mariahopwood.global@gmail.com

  If you have grown up as a chubby or heavier child, body image issues can haunt you for most or maybe even all of your life. 

We live in a world that can often be obsessed with unrealistic standards of beauty and obsession over diet culture. This can have a harmful effect on a person’s body image, self-worth, and mental health — no matter a person’s age, gender, sexuality, or ethnicity.

Even if you are a strong independent person, homeowner, single parent, business owner – this issue of body negativity can literally be a part of your everyday narrative.

Today, on the podcast, I am here with my friend Mary-Anne, who like me, has had body image issues for most of her life … we are going to dissect this nasty layer that has consumed too much of our time.

Since 1945, almost seven million people have migrated to Australia. This rich, cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths.

In 2020, there were over 7.6 million migrants living in Australia. Nearly every single country from around the world was represented in Australia's population in 2020.

Economic and political uncertainty in Chile in the 70s led to an increase in Chilean migrants to Australia. 

The Puebla family would immigrate in  1977 leaving their country behind and starting a new life down under.

On today’s podcast, I have with me Maria – who arrived here in Australia in her early teens.

As we grow more resilient in pandemic times and get ready to withstand the challenges life may throw at us in the coming year, I am hopeful that things will get better and this will be the year when we will realise our strengths and embrace our weaknesses.

Along with the New Year comes making resolutions, 

The Babylonians are said to have started the tradition over 4000 years ago

Most popular New Year’s resolutions are about self-improvement, career or job goals, and improving personal relationships.

Research shows that 80% of people break their resolutions by the first week of February and only 8% are successful in achieving their goals at all.

Today, I am here with Daniel Lucas, who is from Gen Z and I’m from Gen X and we will be discussing 2021, our resolutions for 2022, and life hacks that have helped us improve our lives.

If you have any life hacks you would like to share -- please email me at
evelyn@lifesrichtapestry.com.au

At this moment in NSW, Australia we are celebrating Christmas

What does Christmas mean to you –
 Christmas means something different to each of us. For many, it’s an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25.    Christmas is celebrated as a religious and cultural day among billions of people around the world.

We all have different beliefs and no matter what your belief, we should all be able to share love and kindness over the holiday period. 

It has been a difficult year and today, I am talking with a young man, Daniel Lucas, who was actually born on this day, 22 years ago.

We will be talking about Generation Z, Daniel’s view on the past year, the internet, social media, and his thoughts on the future.

Toastmasters

Toastmasters started with a vision from a man named Ralph Smedley, who wanted to start a training program focusing on speaking and leadership … after a few attempts, the first chartered club was started in 1924 in Santa Ana California… 

Today there are over 345,000 members involved in almost 16,000 clubs in 142 countries. 

The main club that I am in is - Blue Mountains Toastmasters, which is based in Katoomba, NSW Australia.  The club was founded in June of 1989 and initially met at various club halls but has been meeting at the Carrington Hotel for over 14 years on the 2nd and 4th Mondays from 7:30 PM.  Of course with the Corona Virus pandemic, the club ended up having meetings on Zoom over the last year and a few months.

One of Toastmasters' strengths is the mentor program it offers.  And today, I am here with my mentor Jennifer Long and we will talk about everything toastmasters and why it’s a good idea to think about joining.

--------------------------------

By letting your family know what needs to be done at the end of your life, it opens their eyes , empowers them and essentially is the last gift of love that you are giving to your loved ones.

LET THEM KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

I’ve always been a bargain shopper.  I probably buy things I don’t need just for the sheer pleasure of saving X amount of dollars.  I also have the bad habit when someone compliments me on anything, I will happily scream out, “I got this for only $3!!!”

When I signed up to study for my Marriage Celebrant course in 2007, the Celebrant training school was offering a discount if I were to sign up for both the Marriage and Funeral course I would save so many dollars.  Of course, that immediately excited me.

I have always loved learning, so I thought, why not. At that time, I thought there’s no way I’ll conduct a funeral, I’m way too emotional, but it will be good to learn.

In Australia, there are no formal qualifications needed for anyone to conduct a civil funeral and indeed about 60% (that number is getting higher) of funerals are either being conducted by a civil funeral celebrant or a family friend.

……………….

I got way more than I bargained for when I did that Funeral Celebrants course and it has indeed changed my life forever.

So many people are craving resilience right now. Some of Marie’s past life episodes have seen her experience the lowest of lows…through her tenacity, she was able to confront and deal with these traumas, continue to stand strong, and carry her head and heart high… she has built a life that is THE grandest life she can imagine. And that’s why she wants to serve you in doing the same to build your grand life, where you play the leading lady or gentleman, and feel the most gifted and most sensational you’ve ever felt in your lifetime - arriving with the unlimited version of the completely unmasked you.

Tune in to an open, honest, and courageous conversation with Marie as she shares her past life trauma and grief.

For me, my life-changing day was the 

13 January 1997

This is my story ….

........................................................

I didn’t realize it then, but this challenging period in my life taught me many lessons that I would take throughout my life.

Not ever in my wildest dreams did I think that I would become a funeral celebrant,  in 2007, as I was reinventing myself, a surprise opportunity changed the whole trajectory of my life. 

Being a funeral celebrant is a calling that I am passionate about. The final celebration for a family’s loved one will be one of the hardest days of their lives. My own father’s funeral taught me so many lessons, that I have taken forward with me and which have served me well when helping others plan the funeral of a loved one.  I have come to realize that everything in my life has happened for a reason. The worst situation in my life was, indeed, the catalyst leading me to become a funeral celebrant who genuinely cares for the families I serve and strives to ensure that the final celebration of their loved one’s life is memorable and heartfelt.

I have always been interested in people’s lives, how they have grown up, their challenges, their joys, the lessons they have learned along the way, and what makes them who they are … 

Our lives are like tapestries, full of layers, rich textures, vibrant colors, and stories to tell…. a wondrous weaving of adventure, responsibility, and even heartbreak which all are a part of a full and unique life.

Some threads of my tapestry – I grew up as an Army Brat, I’ve lived in the United States, Germany, and now in Australia, I was an international Flight Attendant and a community radio Broadcaster,  currently I’m a Wedding and Funeral Celebrant.  I’ve experienced racism, childhood bullying, divorce, and feelings of not fitting in---- body image issues and self-doubt consume way too much of my time.  All this and more have contributed to who I am.

My most life-changing events have been the sudden death of my father and becoming a funeral celebrant.  Connecting with others and Focusing on life stories has always been a passion of mine. I have been privileged to have conducted more than 500 ceremonies, learning about people’s lives and relationships. 

I have found through sharing deep, intimate, and courageous conversations -  connects us on a profound level.  

I am delighted to have you here on this journey with me.