Start with Small Steps

227 - Rebuild Real Trust

Trust is one of the most powerful forces in human connection—and also one of the hardest to rebuild when it’s been broken. In this episode, I explore what it means to trust again after growing up in an environment where trust didn’t come easily. Through personal reflection and real-world observations, this conversation unpacks how trust is formed, how it's tested, and how to rebuild it one small step at a ...

100 - Can a Christian Be Stoic?

In this episode, I explore a question that has shaped much of my spiritual journey: can a Christian embrace Stoicism? I share how I discovered Stoicism at a young age and how its principles helped me build resilience during difficult times. Later, when I became a Christian, I had to ask whether those Stoic values still had a place in my life—and what I found was both challenging and enlightening.

V...

225 - Ancient Stoics Solve Modern Problems

In this episode, I reflect on how discovering Stoicism as a young girl profoundly changed how I view the world. From the ancient teachings of Zeno and Epictetus to modern-day applications like mindful eating and emotional resilience, Stoicism offers practical wisdom for anyone navigating life’s chaos.

The Origins of Stoicism:
I explore the fascinating story of Zeno of Citium, a shipw...

224 - Moderation In Everything

In this episode, I talk about a life lesson that’s stuck with me since childhood: the importance of moderation. From Greek philosophy to personal experiences with family and faith, I unpack how “all things in moderation” has become a guiding principle in how I view the world and navigate life’s ups and downs. We look at why extremes are so prevalent in today’s culture—and how finding the middle groun...

223 - Advice from Silly Places

This episode explores how surprisingly profound life advice can be found in unexpected places—like cartoons, comic strips, movies, TV shows, music, and even bumper stickers. Drawing from a wide range of pop culture references, this episode reveals the timeless truths hidden in the most playful and unconventional sources.

Cartoons with Character and Wisdom
Classic animated characters like Tweety ...

223 - Advice from Silly Places

This episode explores how surprisingly profound life advice can be found in unexpected places—like cartoons, comic strips, movies, TV shows, music, and even bumper stickers. Drawing from a wide range of pop culture references, this episode reveals the timeless truths hidden in the most playful and unconventional sources.

Cartoons with Character and Wisdom
Classic animated characters like Tweety ...

222 - The Two Buckets: A Simple Way to Solve Life’s Problems

Hi everyone, it’s Jill from the North Woods! In this episode, I’m sharing one of the biggest life lessons I ever learned—the concept of putting problems into two buckets: things I can change and things I cannot. This idea, rooted in the Serenity Prayer, has helped me navigate everything from growing up with an alcoholic parent to financial struggles, career changes, and ...

221 - Don't Let Anyone Push Your Buttons

In this episode, I share one of the most powerful lessons I ever learned—from a book I discovered as a child. Wayne Dyer’s Your Erroneous Zones completely changed how I saw emotions, reactions, and the way people try to manipulate us. This book helped me navigate a tough home life, stand up to bullies, and, most importantly, stop letting others control how I felt.

I explore the emotional t...

220 - Stop Playing It Safe

In this episode of Start with Small Steps, Jill from the North Woods shares a powerful lesson learned from playing chess with her father: the best way to improve is to challenge yourself against stronger opponents. This principle extends beyond the chessboard and applies to personal growth, career development, fitness, and creative pursuits. Jill explores how surrounding yourself with skilled people, fin...

219 - No Choice Is A Choice

Have you ever avoided making a decision, hoping things would just work themselves out, only to realize later that doing nothing made everything worse? I know I have, and in this episode, I’m talking about how no decision is still a decision—just not one you control. I share personal stories about how my own indecision has impacted my career, relationships, and health, sometimes in ways I deeply regret. ...

218 - Solve the Right Problem

In today’s episode, I’m sharing something that completely changed my life—learning to solve the right problem. For years, I kept hitting the same roadblocks, whether it was with my weight, finances, or personal goals. No matter how much effort I put in, nothing seemed to work. And then I realized—I was solving the wrong problem.

Instead of focusing on what really needed fixing, I was throwing solutio...

217 - We’re All Walking Contradictions

Hey everyone, it’s Jill from the Northwoods! In this episode, I’m sharing one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in life: every strength has a weakness, and every weakness has a hidden strength. Understanding this has helped me navigate relationships, improve my leadership skills, and find more balance in my life.

I’ll take you through personal stories—like how my ability to build s...

216 - Feeling Overwhelmed? Start Small

Big goals are intimidating. But breaking them into smaller steps makes them achievable. Here’s how:

Start With the Simplest Action
Instead of thinking about the entire project, focus on the tiniest, easiest step. If your goal is to clean your house, don’t aim for perfection. Just throw out the trash. If you want to start exercising, do one push-up. The key is to start so small you can’t ...

215 - What Not to Do with ADHD

In this episode, we explore what not to do when managing ADHD—whether it’s your own or that of someone you love. From handling distractions to avoiding harmful self-talk, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and insights. Learn how to set realistic expectations, build ADHD-friendly routines, and foster healthier relationships through understanding and collaboration.

The Scottie Meth...

214 - Unlocking ADHD Superpowers

In this episode, I’m sharing how I’ve learned to see my ADHD not as a struggle, but as a set of superpowers that help me succeed in life. Growing up, I faced a lot of misunderstandings about what ADHD really is, but over time, I discovered that the way my brain works gives me unique strengths. From hyperfocus to creativity and resilience, I’ll talk about the positive sides of ADHD and how I’ve lear...

213 - ADHD Roadmap to Victories

In this episode, I share my personal journey of managing ADHD and turning its challenges into strengths. From my chaotic childhood to my organized adult life, I discuss the tools, habits, and strategies that have helped me succeed. Along the way, I highlight the importance of small steps, incremental change, and embracing ADHD as a unique way of thinking. Whether you’re navigating your own ADHD jour...

Living with ADHD: My Journey to Understanding

In this episode, I open up about my personal journey with ADHD, a condition that’s been both a challenge and a unique part of who I am. From my restless childhood to my career as an adult navigating deadlines, relationships, and responsibilities, I share the ups, downs, and surprising discoveries I’ve made along the way. ADHD isn’t just about being distracted or hyper—it’s about learni...

211 - Why Scrooge’s Transformation Resonates Today

In this festive episode, we explore the timeless themes and moral lessons of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. From Ebenezer Scrooge's dramatic transformation to the significance of generosity, community, and self-reflection, this story has much to teach us about living meaningful lives. Join us as we break down the pivotal moments of the tale, reflect on its modern applications...

210 - Turning Lemons into Success

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring ideas presented in Zach Friedman’s book, The Lemonade Life: How to Create Success, Create Happiness, and Conquer Anything. We explore how self-awareness, resilience, and purposeful action can transform your life. From breaking free of the comparison trap to experimenting with new ideas, Friedman’s insights provide a fresh perspective on building a fulfil...