Bootstraps

Bootstraps

Welcome to the podcast for navigating this wild, apocalyptic rollercoaster ride we're all on! And no, I'm not being dramatic — the actual definition of apocalypse means "to uncover." And whew, haven't we all been uncovering a lot lately? Old wounds, new anxieties…But here's the good news ~ the magic is in the mess. This podcast was inspired by the “McDago” tribe of Irish-Italian, tough, tender, funny-as-hell FAMIGLIA who taught me: “Fall down? Fine. But come back swingin' - with fire, laughter, grace, and maybe a meatball in each hand!” My Italian Nonna’s motto? “Pull up your bootstraps.” She lost her mother young, was raised by her Italian immigrant father (a Chicago chef), but still showed up swinging! She worked with passion til age 85, & lived to 97 with sass and incredible stamina. My own parents are also vibrantly bootstrappin’ through their 80’s…Proving strength & grit don't retire. Now I'm here to share that spirit with you! I'm a Mom, therapist, yoga instructor, sound healer, & musician (who dabbles in stand-up comedy). The Italian chef gene skipped me, but I do serve up healing—spiced with humor, creativity, and a dash of sass. Welcome to the FAMIGLIA! Pull up those bootstraps… Let’s do this! All episodes produced by Lisa Whittingham and Brad Dickert Edited and mixed by Brad Dickert We want to hear from YOU!! Do you have an inspirational “Bootstraps” story you’d like to share? Or are you struggling with an issue / need advice / tools from Lisa? Write to us at: lisawhitt111@gmail.com or DM Lisa on IG :@sita_whitt

Episodes

July 29, 2025 54 mins

Meet one of the bravest souls I know — my trans child Grey.  From his “coming out” journey, to his recent gender affirming surgery, this isn’t just a convo about gender.  It’s about the mess and the magic of growing up, parenting through the unknown, showing up with love (even when you don’t have all the answers), and the beautiful, messy business of becoming who you are.  Grey’s gift for weaving big truths into compel...

Mark as Played

Illinois Congressman Sean Casten is a scientist, clean energy entrepreneur,  Downers Grove Dad, &  the rare “E-word” politician (that’s ”Empathy” folks!) Join us for tales  from the frontlines in DC. If you’ve ever wondered what hope looks like in human form—it might just be this guy.

✨ VOCAB LESSON-of-the-day: EMPATHY = the ability to communicate that incredibly healing message of “you're not alone.”

Mark as Played

In this soulful (and spicy) kickoff, I sit down with my radiant, spiritual mentor, a Chicago native, and 4th generation intuitive guide, Sonia Tully! We get real about navigating these apocalyptic times - with heart… AND humor.  As Sonia’s Nana taught her: “The situation is critical, but doesn’t have to be serious.” Join us for big  Chi-town energy! 

  ✨VOCAB lesson-of-the-day: “weird” = Old English wyrd, ...

Mark as Played

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