Shobukai Shift

In this heartfelt follow-up to "The Well-Gardened Self," Mary reads and reflects on powerful listener stories about how nature has supported their personal transformations. From fire escape herb gardens to grief walks through the woods, these stories reveal nature as a quiet but potent ally in healing, connection, and growth.

Topics Covered:

🎯Nature and grief processing

🎯Everyday rituals of reconnection

🎯Community through...

What if the key to navigating chaos isn’t more control—but more connection to nature?

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, Mary explores how the natural world—gardening, birdwatching, even groundhogs—can heal us, grow us, and guide us through personal, organizational, and societal transformation. Drawing from Sue Stuart-Smith’s The Well-Gardened Mind, neuroscience, client stories, and her own pandemic experience, Mary unearths a simpl...

In this engaging conversation, Mary Schaub speaks with Penny Cottrell and Ria Glenn DeMay about their journey from working in law and education to creating the Rewrite Workshops, a platform designed to help individuals explore their personal narratives and reclaim their power through writing. They discuss the transformative power of storytelling, the importance of community and connection in healing, and practical writing prompts f...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, host Mary Schaub reads listener's experiences dealing with a 2025 world by limiting social media, trying Qi Gong, and using psychedelics. 

Key Takeaways

💡 Navigating change can lead to greater meaning and purpose.

💡Ancient practices like Taoism and Buddhism can help cope with modern challenges.

💡'The White Lotus' showcases deep themes of identity and authenticity.

💡Personal experien...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, host Mary Schaub explores what it means to be a peaceful warrior in chaotic times, drawing on ancient Eastern philosophies—specifically Taoism and Buddhism—to navigate the overwhelming pace and uncertainty of modern life.

Mary opens with a personal story from her early twenties, when a rare moment of stillness during a busy New York summer sparked a deep encounter with Buddhist teachings. This expe...

In this conversation, Matt shares his journey of coping with the loss of his son and his mission to help other families facing similar struggles. The discussion covers the signs of addiction, the role of parents, the impact of grief, and the importance of community support in recovery.  

 Key Takeaways

💡Matt Fischer established the Evan Fischer Foundation after losing his 21-year-old son Evan to a heroin overdose on Thanksgiving Day...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, host Mary Schaub shares listeners' strategies for managing overwhelming emotions, from cocooning to grounding techniques, while reflecting on her rejuvenating trip to Lisbon and the importance of kindness in everyday interactions.

Takeaways:

💡Mary's trip to Lisbon helped her overcome post-COVID travel hesitation and reconnect with experiences she loves

💡Practicing kindness toward ser...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, Mary Schaub discusses the feelings of overwhelm that many experience in today's rapidly changing world. She shares her personal struggles with overwhelm and explores three mindset shifts to cope with these feelings: sublimation, stoicism, and the anthropologist's perspective. Each shift offers practical strategies for redirecting emotions into constructive actions, fostering resilience, ...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, Mary engages in a heartfelt conversation with Deborah Zelazny, a writer and content creator. They explore their long-standing friendship, the challenges of teenage years, the impact of influential teachers, and the journey of self-discovery through writing and blogging. Deborah shares her experiences of navigating career changes, the importance of authenticity in content creation, and offers advic...

In this episode of Shobukai Shift, listeners write in to tell their personal stories about why they struggle to deal with even small unexpected changes. In this introspective episode, host Mary Schaub delves into the deep-rooted origins of our emotional responses and the importance of self-reflection in personal transformation.

 The episode explores how our past experiences, particularly from childhood, create "hardwired" ...

In this conversation, Mary Schaub interviews Rob Kenney, the creator of the popular YouTube channel 'Dad How Do I'. Rob shares his journey from being an introverted sales professional to becoming an internet dad figure for millions. He discusses his childhood experiences, the challenges of mental health in his family, and the impact of bullying on his self-worth. Rob emphasizes the importance of finding purpose, the role ...

In this conversation, Mary Schaub explores the theme of uncertainty in today's world, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and inner work. She discusses the challenges of navigating change and the necessity of embracing equanimity to foster personal growth. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, she encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with uncertainty and to prioritize their inner w...

Mobius Executive Leadership CEO Amy Elizabeth Fox discusses how addressing trauma and fostering personal growth creates more effective business leaders and healthier corporate cultures. Learn how combining psychological insights with leadership development drives sustainable organizational change.

Key Takeaways:

💡Sustainable leadership change requires addressing underlying trauma and psychological patterns

💡Creating psychological sa...

A deeply personal discussion of change management, self-discovery, and transforming unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth. The episode delves into personal change appetite, mindset flexibility, and the power of embracing life's unpredictable moments.

Takeaways:

💡 Change can be uncomfortable, but it often leads to unexpected insights and opportunities

💡 Our reaction to unexpected changes often stems from past ...

In this conversation, Mary Schaub interviews Suzanne Roske, founder and CEO of Vamonos Executive Coaching, discussing her journey of personal transformation, the writing of her book, and the importance of self-discovery. They explore themes of vulnerability, trust, and the challenges of making significant life changes, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suzanne shares insights on the energy audit process, the cycles of rene...

Change isn’t always sparked by a single life-altering event—it’s often a series of thousands of mini catalysts shaping us over time. In this episode of Shobukai Shift, we explore the journey of self-discovery, the process of unlearning societal conditioning, and the mental shifts required to break free from toxic narratives. How do we resist external pressures, embrace personal growth, and stay present in a world designed to distra...

In this conversation, Dr. Ralph H. Gross III, President, COO and author of  We Have Nothing to Lose: A Dark Optimist's Call to Action, shares his journey from a bright child in Pittsburgh to a successful leader and author. He discusses the importance of ambition, resilience, and transformational change in both personal and professional contexts. Ralph emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions...

The world is undergoing rapid transformation, affecting all aspects of life.
Shifting attitudes towards work reflect a desire for meaningful engagement.
Ikigai represents the intersection of passion, skills, and societal needs.
Coping with change requires understanding the complexities of human emotions.

Living intentionally means questioning societal norms and expectations.
Personal growth often involves n...