In this episode, we explore the fascinating life of Lauren Hitchen, a travel agent, entrepreneur, and mother. Lauren shares stories of growing up in England, her family’s move to the U.S., and the unexpected twists and turns that led her to a career in travel. Her journey reflects the adaptability and resilience required to thrive in both business and life. From managing an assisted living facility to establishing a successful travel agency, Lauren discusses the importance of family, her love for travel, and how she helps others explore the world.

What You'll Hear:

1. Family Roots and Early Influences:
   • Lauren recounts her upbringing in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a historic town between England and Scotland.
   • Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs who owned and managed various businesses, including a local store and a pub.
2. Immigration and Adjustment in the U.S.:
   • The challenges of moving to America as a teenager, navigating the immigration system, and finding her place in a new country.
   • Her family’s transition into the healthcare sector, managing an assisted living facility, and later expanding into other ventures.
3. Journey into Travel and Adventure:
   • The pivotal moment when a career counselor suggested she pursue travel—a passion that she didn’t initially see as a career.
   • Lauren’s path from helping with family businesses to building her own career as a travel agent, specializing in luxury and family travel.
4. The Role of Travel in Personal Growth:
   • How travel and cultural experiences shaped her perspective and enhanced her adaptability in business.
   • Stories of memorable trips, including a recent cruise on Disney’s private island during a hurricane.
5. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Travelers:
   • Tips on pivoting in business, creating a niche in the travel industry, and finding fulfillment in entrepreneurship.
   • Insights into the importance of connecting with clients and offering unique, personalized travel experiences.

Insights:

• “You’ve just got to do what you’ve got to do to make it work.” – Lauren Hitchen
• “Freedom is being able to go where you want and explore the world on your terms.” – Lauren Hitchen
• “Every experience, good or bad, prepares you for the next chapter.” – Lauren Hitchen

Connect with Lauren:

• @thejetsetgetaway
• @slaytheusa
• @lauren.hitch
• Jaime Marco website
• Jaime on Instagram
• Jaime on LinkedIn
• Jaime on Facebook

If Lauren’s story resonated with you, subscribe to our podcast for more real-life stories of resilience and adventure. Share this episode with friends interested in entrepreneurship, travel, or who simply love a good story.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this inspiring conversation with Lauren Hitchen. Remember, life is an adventure waiting to be embraced. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this powerful Legacy Series episode, we sit down with Carolyn Kaplan, a remarkable woman celebrating her 100th year. Carolyn recounts her extraordinary journey from her childhood in Nazi Germany to building a life of resilience, love, and giving back. Through candid conversations, she shares harrowing stories of escaping persecution, her family’s immigration to the U.S., and the importance of faith, education, and community. With humor and wisdom, Carolyn inspires us to face adversity with courage and grace.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Life in Nazi Germany:
   
   • Carolyn reflects on her early life in a small German village, where Jews and Gentiles lived side by side until the rise of Hitler in 1933.
   • How her family narrowly escaped persecution and emigrated to the U.S., thanks to her parents’ foresight and determination.
2. The Challenges of Escape:
   
   • The family’s dangerous journey out of Germany, including a harrowing train ride where Carolyn’s life was threatened by a Nazi soldier.
   • How her father’s bravery and quick thinking ensured their survival.
3. Building a New Life in America:
   
   • Adjusting to life in Chicago as a young immigrant and navigating the challenges of learning a new language and culture.
   • Carolyn’s passion for education and how she became fluent in English, Hebrew, and German by her teenage years.
4. Community and Resilience:
   
   • How Carolyn found strength through faith and the Jewish community in Chicago.
   • Stories of volunteering, teaching Hebrew school, and creating a legacy of kindness through service.
5. Reflections on History and Hate:
   
   • Carolyn’s insights on the cyclical nature of hate and the importance of teaching future generations about love, tolerance, and resilience.
   • Her work with Holocaust education and sharing her story with schools to inspire empathy and understanding.
6. Celebrating 100 Years:
   
   • Carolyn’s reflections on reaching this incredible milestone, the family she’s built, and the lessons she wants to pass on.
   • Her advice for living a meaningful life: “Give freely, love deeply, and never let the bastards get you down.”

Memorable Quotes:

• “The worst times in life are often the waiting periods—but they pass, and we survive.” – Carolyn Kaplan
• “Love and education are the best weapons against hate.” – Carolyn Kaplan
• “Every act of kindness, no matter how small, creates ripples that last for generations.” – Carolyn Kaplan

If Carolyn’s incredible story moved you, subscribe to our podcast and share this episode with friends, family, and anyone who needs a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.

We’d love to hear from you! Send feedback, questions, or guest suggestions to connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning in to this unforgettable conversation with Carolyn Kaplan. Her story reminds us that even in the darkest times, courage, love, and resilience can light the way forward. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this lighthearted and entertaining episode, we chat with Norm Ross, a retired professional with a colorful history in broadcasting, sales, and HR. Norm shares humorous and insightful stories from his experiences working as a sports announcer, his adventures in the dating world, and his life across multiple cities. From growing up in New York to surviving earthquakes in California, Norm’s journey is filled with laughs, lessons, and a touch of nostalgia. This episode is perfect for listeners who enjoy real-life stories, witty humor, and reflections on life’s unpredictable twists.

What You'll Hear:

1. Norm’s Early Career in Broadcasting:
   • Norm recalls his time as a sports announcer for the Denver Bears, a AAA baseball team affiliated with the White Sox.
   • His memorable (and humorous) moments working late-night radio and the challenges of live broadcasting.
2. Life in California and Surviving Earthquakes:
   • Norm reflects on his years living in California, including his experience during the Northridge earthquake.
   • He shares stories about his family’s encounters with earthquakes and other unpredictable moments.
3. Navigating the Dating World in His 70s:
   • Norm offers an honest and humorous look at dating later in life, from using dating apps like Match.com and Bumble to finding companionship for his “back nine.”
   • He shares his criteria for an ideal partner and the realities of online dating in his 70s.
4. Insights into Family and Relationships:
   • Norm discusses the importance of family, lessons learned from his parents, and the complexities of marriage and relationships.
   • The conversation touches on generational perspectives on marriage and the value of companionship.
5. Reflections on Career and Life Lessons:
   • With a career spanning broadcasting, HR, and insurance, Norm emphasizes the importance of adaptability and humor in life.
   • He shares his philosophy on taking things as they come, learning from each stage of life, and making the most of each experience.

Insights:

• “You don’t know everything, and sometimes life just throws you a curveball.” – Norm Ross
• “At this age, dating is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get.” – Norm Ross
• “If you have your hair, your teeth, and can drive at night, what more do you need?” – Norm Ross

Resources:

• Denver Bears Baseball History
• Learn More about Northridge Earthquake

If Norm’s stories made you smile, please subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring and entertaining conversations. Share this episode with friends and family who might enjoy Norm’s humor and perspective on life.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining us for this delightful conversation with Norm Ross. Remember to embrace the unexpected, find humor in life’s challenges, and keep your curiosity alive. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this engaging episode, Bruce Tidaback shares stories from his multifaceted career journey—from his time in the Navy to his roles in education, local government, and sports. Bruce reflects on his experiences as a middle school principal, how he prioritized building genuine connections, and the lessons he learned from students and colleagues. Now working part-time with the Tampa Bay Rays, Bruce offers insights into how community-centered roles have shaped his life, the importance of family, and the power of humor in overcoming life’s challenges.

What You'll Hear:

1. Bruce’s Early Life and Career Path:
   • Bruce recounts his time in the Navy, stationed in various countries and the lessons he carried forward.
   • His transition into education, becoming a middle school principal, and the unique perspective this role offered on youth and family dynamics.
2. Connecting with Students and Community:
   • The importance of face-to-face communication and building trust with students, families, and staff.
   • Creative ways Bruce stayed connected, from leaving notes for his staff to listening deeply to each student.
3. Managing Challenges in Education:
   • Bruce reflects on the shifting landscape of education, including the rise of social media and its impact on student interaction and mental health.
   • Strategies for navigating crises, providing emotional support, and the challenges of dealing with systemic changes in schools.
4. Service and Dedication:
   • Bruce’s work in local government, including aiding the community during hurricane evacuations.
   • His volunteer work with seniors and the importance of giving back to his Gulfport, FL, community.
5. Current Roles and Future Goals:
   • Balancing part-time roles with the Tampa Bay Rays and at Amalie Arena, where he serves and connects with fans.
   • Bruce’s dedication to staying engaged and making a difference in every role he takes on, including his ongoing support for community resilience.

Insights:

• “You can’t solve every problem, but you can listen. And sometimes, that’s all people need.” – Bruce Tidaback
• “It’s the small moments and connections that make the biggest difference.” – Bruce Tidaback
• “Family, faith, and community: get those right, and everything else falls into place.” – Bruce Tidaback

Resources:

• Tampa Bay Rays
• Amalie Arena: www.amaliearena.com

If Bruce’s story inspired you, please subscribe to our podcast for more heartwarming and insightful conversations. Share this episode with those passionate about community, education, and resilience.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us in this enriching conversation with Bruce Tidaback. Remember, life is about connection, community, and lifting each other up. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this special Legacy Series episode, we sit down with Sandy Klein, who is turning 100 on February 1st. From her childhood in 1920s Brooklyn to her extraordinary resilience through decades of change, Sandy shares captivating stories, sharp wit, and heartfelt wisdom. Whether she’s recounting her whirlwind romance with her husband during World War II, knitting teddy bears for children in hospitals, or founding the transformative Diamond Club for seniors, Sandy’s journey is a testament to the power of giving back, adapting, and keeping a good sense of humor.

What You'll Hear:

1. Growing Up in 1920s Brooklyn:
   • The simplicity of childhood games with a fruit box and a homemade scooter.
   • Reflections on how community and connection were a way of life in a pre-digital world.
2. A Love Story for the Ages:
   • Meeting her husband at the USO during World War II and their three-month courtship before marriage.
   • Overcoming cultural barriers, misunderstandings, and a memorable encounter with his Hebrew-inscribed dog tags.
3. Founding the Diamond Club:
   • How Sandy’s initiative brought seniors together for crafts, socializing, and purpose.
   • The legacy of kindness created by crafting hats and teddy bears for children in need.
4. Wisdom from 100 Years of Living:
   • Sandy’s philosophy on resilience: “Life is full of bumps; you go around them.”
   • Reflections on historical events and how they shaped her perspective on family and community.
5. Creativity Knows No Age Limit:
   • Discovering a talent for painting and knitting after moving to a senior living community.
   • Knitting hundreds of intricate teddy bears for children facing surgery, spreading love one stitch at a time.
6. Celebrating a Century:
   • Plans for Sandy’s 100th birthday celebration and her wishes for the future.
   • A look back at her incredible life filled with family, laughter, and unwavering generosity.

Insights:

• “Exercise can kill you. Life can kill you. So live it up!” – Sandy Klein
• “Life is whatever you make it. The key is to keep moving forward.” – Sandy Klein
• “I’ve been a volunteer my whole life. That’s what it’s all about—giving back and creating joy.” – Sandy Klein

Resources:

• Learn About the Diamond Club: Seniors make caps for children with cancer

Inspired by Sandy’s story? Join us in celebrating her legacy by volunteering or contributing to causes that bring joy to others. Share this episode with someone who could use a dose of inspiration from a true centenarian powerhouse.

We’d love to hear from you! Send your thoughts, questions, or guest suggestions to connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning in to this extraordinary conversation with Sandy Klein. Her story reminds us that every moment is an opportunity to create, connect, and contribute. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this captivating episode, we’re joined by David Havasi, a former actor, Tesla team member, and tech enthusiast, who takes us on a journey through his diverse career. From performing on Broadway to becoming a part of Tesla’s early days, David’s story is one of resilience, passion, and reinvention. Listen in as he discusses his journey, the impact of mentorship, and how a desire to make a difference led him to work with Tesla. This episode is packed with insights into career transitions, the importance of living authentically, and pursuing work that aligns with one’s values.

What You'll Hear:

1. Early Career in Acting:
   • David’s initial interest in acting, inspired by a love of performance and storytelling.
   • Memorable roles on Broadway, including The Producers and Spamalot, and working alongside notable actors like Martin Short and Jason Alexander.
   • Insights into the intense world of acting and the lessons learned about motivation, resilience, and the human experience.
2. Transition to Tesla and Tech:
   • How David’s growing environmental concerns, sparked by events like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, led him to pursue a career with Tesla.
   • His journey from an initial interview at Tesla to contributing to the company’s mission to promote sustainable energy.
   • David’s passion for storytelling and how he used it to convey Tesla’s message and values, helping people connect with the brand’s purpose.
3. Living with Passion and Purpose:
   • The philosophy of “living a 10 out of 10 day” and being acutely aware of one’s purpose.
   • How David’s acting background shaped his approach to work and life, inspiring him to focus on authenticity and personal growth.
   • Advice on embracing career shifts, following curiosity, and finding joy in the journey.
4. Reflecting on Legacy and Impact:
   • David discusses the transition from a life of “doing” to one of “being” and appreciating the small moments in life.
   • The importance of mentors in shaping his career path and the role of mentorship in achieving professional and personal goals.

Insights:

• “Life is a journey, not a destination. Embrace every moment and live fully.” – David Havasi
• “Acting taught me to see the world through different lenses, and that shaped how I approached everything else in life.” – David Havasi
• “At Tesla, I wanted to make a difference, to help people see a better, more sustainable future.” – David Havasi

Resources:

• Tesla’s Official Website

If David’s story inspired you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with friends who are exploring career changes, pursuing creative passions, or interested in sustainability.

Send us your thoughts, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning into this engaging conversation with David Havasi. Remember, life is about exploration, growth, and making a positive impact. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

Join us for a lively and hilarious conversation with Neal Foard, a seasoned storyteller, marketing wizard, and humor enthusiast. Neal takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from crafting unforgettable advertising campaigns to building connections across the globe through his viral storytelling videos. With his unique blend of wit, wisdom, and warmth, Neal shares the secrets behind his storytelling success, the impact of positivity in professional and personal life, and the art of making people laugh while leaving a lasting impression.

What You'll Hear:

1. The Power of Storytelling:
   • Why storytelling is the most memorable and effective form of communication.
   • Neal’s philosophy on weaving humor and hope into narratives to inspire and connect.
2. Lessons from Advertising:
   • Behind-the-scenes anecdotes from Neal’s time working on major campaigns for Toyota and Lexus.
   • The infamous “Christopher Columbus Action Figure” campaign and its hilarious aftermath.
3. Viral Storytelling and Connection:
   • How Neal’s online videos have reached millions, sparking friendships and connections around the world.
   • The surprising impact of small acts of kindness, like gifting a troll doll to brighten someone’s day.
4. The Pygmalion Effect and Positivity:
   • How setting high expectations encourages people to rise to the occasion.
   • The importance of focusing on the positive and celebrating everyday acts of kindness.
5. The Challenges of Social Media:
   • Navigating the noise and finding your authentic voice in a crowded digital landscape.
   • Neal’s insights into how social media can both inspire and overwhelm.
6. The Magic of Humor and Curiosity:
   • Why laughter is a universal connector and a powerful storytelling tool.
   • Neal’s advice for staying curious and embracing unexpected opportunities.

Insights:

• “Storytelling isn’t just about sharing facts—it’s about creating connection and hope.” – Neal Foard
• “The best stories aren’t perfect—they’re real, relatable, and a little messy.” – Neal Foard
• “If you make someone laugh, you’ve already made their day better.” – Neal Foard

Resources:

• Neal Foard’s Storytelling Platform: https://www.storyfire.net/
• Viral Storytelling Videos: https://www.tiktok.com/@nealfoard

If Neal’s stories brought a smile to your face, subscribe to our podcast for more uplifting conversations. Share this episode with anyone who loves great stories, humor, or creative inspiration.

We’d love to hear from you! Send your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions to connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining us for this unforgettable episode with Neal Foard. His storytelling magic reminds us of the power of laughter, curiosity, and human connection. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this fascinating episode, we dive into the world of energy work, spirituality, and personal connection with Amber Carlson, a hairstylist and energy healer. Amber shares her journey of discovering her sensitivity to energy, her experiences with spiritual encounters, and the transformative power of Reiki. From learning to shield herself from negative energy to helping clients through healing sessions, Amber provides insight into how she has embraced her spiritual side and uses it to support and heal others.

What You'll Hear:

1. Amber’s Early Spiritual Encounters:
   • Amber shares her first experience with spiritual energy as a young child and how these early experiences led her down the path to becoming a healer.
   • The journey of realizing her sensitivity to energy and the challenges of navigating this gift growing up.
2. Introduction to Reiki and Energy Healing:
   • Amber explains the concept of Reiki, also known as hands-on healing, and how it can be used to balance people’s energy.
   • The mental and physical benefits of Reiki for issues like post-op recovery and stress relief.
3. Living with Sensitivity to Energy:
   • Amber discusses her unique ability to sense other people’s energies, both positive and negative, and how she has learned to manage this sensitivity.
   • Techniques Amber uses to protect herself from absorbing others' negative energy, especially in her hairstyling practice where personal connections are close.
4. Personal and Professional Growth:
   • The support Amber received from mentors and friends in the spiritual community who helped her understand her gift.
   • Moving from hairstyling to opening up about her work as an energy healer, combining her gifts to help people feel beautiful inside and out.
5. The Power of Meditation and Grounding Techniques:
   • Amber talks about grounding practices such as sitting in nature, deep breathing, and visualization to keep her energy balanced.
   • Meditation and its role in her life as a tool for spiritual growth and mental clarity.
6. Advice for Developing Spiritual Awareness:
   • Tips for those interested in connecting with their own energy and developing a meditative practice.
   • Simple breathing exercises for relaxation and focus, and the importance of intentionality in every practice.

Insights:

• “Everyone has the ability to connect to their spiritual side; it’s just a matter of being open to it.” – Amber Carlson
• “Energy is all around us. The way we manage it affects our well-being and our interactions with others.” – Amber Carlson
• “Grounding yourself is essential to living a balanced life. When you take time to breathe and connect, everything feels more aligned.” – Amber Carlson

Resources:

• Connect with Amber Carlson for Reiki and Hairstyling Services at ambee3073@yahoo.com

If Amber’s story and insights into energy work resonated with you, consider subscribing to our podcast for more inspiring conversations. Share this episode with friends interested in spirituality or those curious about energy work.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining us for this enlightening conversation with Amber Carlson. Embrace the energy around you, stay grounded, and remember to take time for personal peace. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!