Chats from the Blog Cabin

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa sits down with author Dianne Parrish, creator of Something Better, to explore one of the most relatable parts of being human: the persistent longing for “more.” Why do we admire what others have while overlooking the value in our own lives? And what would happen if we slowed down long enough to really notice what’s already here?

Together, Melissa and Dianne reflect on the tension...

In this week’s intro episode, we’re leaning into a topic that touches every single one of us: the quiet — and sometimes loud — longing for something better. Whether it’s a better job, a bigger house, more time, more peace, or even a “better” version of ourselves, our culture has conditioned us to believe happiness is always just one step ahead of where we are.

But if we’re always chasing the next thing… when do we ever get to rest?

T...

In this episode, Melissa opens up a conversation about The Awful Cupboard—the place where we store the things we don’t need anymore, but aren’t quite ready to release. Sometimes it’s a literal closet or drawer. Sometimes it’s an old belief, a past identity, or a dream we tucked away because life shifted.

Together, we explore how to gently look inside that space without judgment, shame, or pressure. Instead of seeing the cupboard as ...

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with Dennis, a dedicated mentor from Big Brothers Big Sisters, to explore the transformative power of mentorship, compassion, and showing up for others. Through honest conversation and moving stories—especially his relationship with his mentee Mike, who faced mental health struggles—Dennis reveals how mentorship changes lives on both sides.

Together,...

Keywords

volunteering, community service, Big Brother Big Sister, personal growth, mentorship, kindness, support, family, education, social impact

Summary

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera discusses the importance of volunteering and shares her personal experiences with it. She emphasizes how volunteering can change lives, both for the volunteers and those they help. The conversation highlights...

n this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa reflects on the powerful truth found in the quote:
“The grace of God means something like—here is your life. You might never have been, but you are, because the party wouldn’t be complete without you.”

She opens up about how that same grace shows up every week through the stories shared by her incredible guests and the listeners who faithfully tune in. From moments of...

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa speaks with Terry, a cancer survivor, author, and speaker, about his journey of resilience. Terry shares his life-changing experience with a rare form of cancer at a young age and how he rebuilt his life through gratitude, support, and a positive mindset. They discuss the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, the framework for building resilience, and ...

In this heart-to-heart episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera reminds us that sometimes, the biggest shift we can make isn’t in our circumstances—it’s in our perspective. Instead of focusing on what’s missing or what went wrong, Melissa invites listeners to slow down and recognize the blessings already in front of them. Through honest reflection and southern charm, she shares how choosing gratitude over lack can bring p...

Have you ever talked yourself out of showing up because that little voice whispered, “You don’t belong here”? In this vulnerable episode, Melissa opens up about missing a conference — not because of time or travel, but because old feelings of unworthiness crept back in. From the quiet of the Blog Cabin, she reflects on how belonging isn’t about being invited in; it’s about choosing to believe that you already belong, right where yo...

Keywords

mentorship, mentor project, generativity, coaching, vulnerability, lateral mentoring, peer mentoring, reverse mentoring, personal growth, personal development

Summary

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Dr. Deborah Heiser discusses the concept of mentorship, its importance, and the various forms it can take. She emphasizes the intrinsic motivation behind mentorship, differentiating it from coaching a...

In this heartwarming episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera shares how a week of decluttering turned into a week of reconnection. When her husband Raul took time off to help clean out their old barn, what started as a simple project became a reminder of how clearing physical clutter can refresh both your home and your heart.

Melissa reflects on the joy of rediscovering forgotten treasures, the peace that comes from ...

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa engages with Jodi, the author of 'Groomed', to discuss the often-overlooked topic of grooming, particularly in males. They explore the emotional manipulation involved in grooming, the personal story that inspired the book, and the importance of community and male perspectives in addressing trauma. Jodi shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of writ...

In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa introduces the upcoming episode of chatting with Jody the author of Groomed to unpack one of the most misunderstood and manipulative forms of abuse—grooming. Together, they break down what grooming really looks like, how it starts, and the subtle ways abusers gain control through trust, secrecy, and emotional manipulation.

Melissa brings her signature warmth and cla...

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, the host engages with Keith, a civilian who served in Iraq during the war, discussing his experiences and insights from his book, 'Sand, Grit, and Dangerous Supply Missions.' Keith shares the challenges faced by civilians in military operations, the emotional toll of war, and the importance of recognizing the contributions of unsung heroes. He reflects on his personal journey, t...

In this preview episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera introduces her powerful conversation with Keith Richard, a civilian employee who managed logistics in war-torn Iraq. Keith shares his experiences, lessons in courage and leadership, and what it truly means to serve behind the scenes. Tune in for a story that redefines resilience and service.

Keywords: Iraq story, civilian in war zone, leadership under pressure, ...

When an Amazon driver drove through my ditch, broke the pipe under the highway, and tore up my yard — then drove away without a word — it got me thinking about respect, responsibility, and why accountability matters more than ever. In this fiery episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, I share the story, call out the need for big companies (and all of us) to do better, and talk about how small acts of honesty and responsibility can re...

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa sits down with Chiquita from the Traps to Laps program to tackle the urgent issue of cat overpopulation. Together, they share heartfelt stories about rescue work, fostering, and the challenges of kitten season.

The conversation dives deep into:

• Why spaying and neutering is vital for reducing stray cat populations

• The impact of TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs on feral col...

This Wednesday on Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa sits down with Chiquita Taylor, founder of Traps to Laps, for a powerful conversation about responsible pet parenting and why adopting — not shopping — saves lives.

In this preview, Melissa shares why this conversation matters and teases the heartfelt stories Chiquita will tell about rescuing dogs from dangerous situations and giving them a second chance. Get ready to learn how we...