Startin' Some Ripples

Startin' Some Ripples

Startin' Some Ripples is the podcast that turns real stories into powerful life lessons. Hosted by Heather N. Wilde—author, educator, indie publisher, and trauma survivor—this is a space where authenticity and connection thrive. Heather’s journey, chronicled in her memoir "Tumbled," proves that tough experiences, self-reflection, and a little grit can lead to profound growth. Each episode invites cohosts to share their stories or those submitted by listeners, uncovering practical tips for building a more enjoyable life. Together, we’ll celebrate victories, unpack challenges, and connect through the common threads of human experience. It’s a safe, supportive space where vulnerability becomes strength, and shared life lessons spark ripples of change. Whether diving into a listener’s story, exploring personal growth, or just having a heartfelt conversation, Startin’ Some Ripples is here to inspire, uplift, and remind you that life’s greatest teacher is experience itself. Let’s make waves together!

Episodes

August 3, 2025 31 mins

In this heartwarming conversation, we talk about:

  • How the pandemic led me to a significant life shift, embracing roles as an author, speaker, and creative.
  • My passion for connecting with students who "didn't quite fit the model" and creating a non-judgmental space where social-emotional skills and life planning were as important as academics.
  • The incredible story behind my tradition of sewing personalized, handmade pillowcases for...
Mark as Played

Among many other topics, we explore:

From Sick Kid to Health Advocate: Jessica opens up about her chronic childhood pain, the chiropractors who changed her life, and why she’s never stopped asking questions about health, inflammation, and root causes.

The Birth of a Remedy (and a Brand): How one moment of maternal intuition—and a syrup that actually tasted good—led to a quiet Facebook post, a rush of orders, and a full-blown business...

Mark as Played

From Marriage to Business Partners (Again): We talk honestly about our personal history, what made us reconnect professionally after divorce, and why this unusual path is working better than either of us expected.

What Makes a Chef, Really: Steven unpacks his no-nonsense view on the culinary world, why the word “chef” is overused, and what it truly takes to show up in the kitchen with presence, soul, and skill.

The Magic of Fish Sauc...

Mark as Played

Among many other topics, we explore:

What Belonging Really Means: Amy explains the “B” in DEI&B and why fostering a true sense of belonging is crucial for equitable systems, especially in education and corporate spaces.

From Teacher to Changemaker: How burnout, motherhood, and a post-pandemic shift led Amy to leave the classroom and expand her mission in new and unexpected ways.

The Power of Simulated Empathy: A poverty simulation roc...

Mark as Played

In this episode, I’m joined once again by illustrator, designer, and creative scholar Chani Becker, who returns to share one of her favorite fairytales: Tatterhood. Chani guides us through a vivid retelling of this lesser-known Norwegian folktale and invites us to explore its powerful psychological symbolism through a Jungian lens.

As part of her MFA thesis in Illustration, Chani used Tatterhood as a springboard for a deeper convers...

Mark as Played

Among many other topics, we explore:

Living Through the “Almost Miracles”: How both of Adrienne’s children defied the odds and what it meant to cherish moments of joy, even when the bigger picture looked grim.

Resilience as a Daily Choice: Finding the strength to get out of bed, schedule joy, and stay present even when it’s just for an hour or a cup of coffee.

Raw Grief and Real Healing: Why Adrienne chose to write with honesty, inclu...

Mark as Played

Among many other topics, we explore:

  • Creative Energy as a Mirror: How our internal world shapes what we create—and how Sacha uses tarot and intuition to tap into the collective field of inspiration.
  • Alignment vs. Autopilot Living: Identifying when life feels off-track, and how to consciously return to our truth by questioning inherited beliefs and systems.
  • Self-Love as a Foundation: Exploring love as a state of being rather than a...
Mark as Played

In this episode, I sit down with artist, author, and creative guide Rachel Gilbertson to talk about what really happens when you commit to showing up for your creativity every day. We get honest about the 100-Day Creative Soul Retrieval Journey—the magic, the mess, and everything in between. This one’s for anyone craving deeper self-connection, creative freedom, and the reminder that it’s not about the outcome—it’s about the becomi...

Mark as Played

In this episode, I’m joined by Brandi Fleming, a millennial with a remarkable story of transformation and self-discovery. We talk about Brandi’s journey from a chaotic home life to finding stability and pursuing her dreams, including moving to Spain and becoming an author. Brandi shares her experiences with overcoming depression, trusting her intuition, and the importance of self-awareness. We explore the significance of breaking c...

Mark as Played

In this episode, I’m joined by Chani Becker, a creative, a mama, and a storyteller. We talk about Chani’s background in art, her journey to becoming a creative professional, and her recent work in teaching and illustrating. She also shares insights into the psychological and archetypal symbolism in fairytales, specifically the story of "Blue Beard." We explore how these tales can offer profound self-understanding and even healing.

<...
  • Mark as Played
    April 7, 2025 15 mins

    In this special birthday episode, we’re gettin’ real. I’m sharing 50 Years, 50 Truths—a mix of lighthearted laughs, gut-punch lessons, and the moments that shaped me. Some are sweet, some are raw, but all of them are honest. It’s my way of honoring the road I’ve walked and the ripples I hope to keep making as I cross the half-century mark.

    Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book Publishing

    Website: www.HezzieMae.com

    Facebook: Heather ...

    Mark as Played

    In this episode, I’m joined by my daughter Evelyn. We talk about Evie’s journey through college, navigating relationships with peers and professors, and the pressures of graduating into an uncertain world. Evie shares advice on adjusting to college life, embracing change, and managing stress through personal hobbies and self-reflection.

    • Embrace Change and Adaptability:  Evelyn shared her experiences transitioning from high schoo...
    Mark as Played

    In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and stylist, Sam Nelson, about the significant impact that understanding neurodivergence has had on their families. We discuss how awareness and accommodation of ADHD and sensory needs have transformed their parenting and professional lives. Sam shares experiences from her hairstyling career, emphasizing the importance of creating safe environments for neurodivergent individuals.

    • Developi...
    Mark as Played

    In this episode, I’m joined by Marci Hawkinson. We talk about Marci’s story of transforming her life, embracing values, and setting boundaries. In addition, we also get into personal growth journeys, life coaching, self-care, morning rituals, and managing responses to external chaos to maintain personal peace and authenticity in an ever-noisy world.

    • Embrace Personal Growth and Self-Awareness: Both Marci and Heather emphasize the...
    Mark as Played

    During a recent YWCA board meeting, I felt the weight of a shared truth—fear and stress are pressing in on all of us. I see it. I feel it. And I refuse to let it have the final say. In times like these, we need spaces that ground us, connect us, and remind us of our own power. That’s why I’m answering the call, stepping into the storm as a light for those who need it. One way I’m doing that is by opening a space every Wednesday nig...

    Mark as Played

    In this episode, I’m joined by Xander Dukowski, one of my former students and now a pre-med college junior. We discuss Xander's journey from a 0.29 high school GPA to university, overcoming personal challenges, including addiction and loss. Xander also shares insights about resilience, the impact of alternative education, and the importance of controlling what can be controlled. 

    • Turning Adversity into Strength: Xander's story r...
    Mark as Played

    In this episode, I’m joined by Kris Sauter to talk about religion, specifically trauma from organized religion! Kris shares his journey from being a pastor in a toxic church environment to healing and resilience. Together, we explore spirituality, recovery, and Kris’ innovative project, "Shit My Pastor Said," which creates a safe space for survivors of spiritual abuse to share their stories.

    • Power Dynamics:  The inherent power d...
    Mark as Played

    In this episode, we discuss the significance of the dates we mark on our calendars. While many of us record positive events like anniversaries and birthdays, we get into the importance of acknowledging and honoring difficult and painful dates. I share some of my experiences of how my body remembers and reacts to these tough dates and how I create space and honor these memories. I hope that this helps you strengthen your resilience ...

    Mark as Played

    Welcome to 2025! In this episode, we discuss new year goals, focusing on organization and planning adventures with our guest, Nicole Lance. We get into her “word of the year” and how she plans to apply this idea to her life and business. Here are some of the other topics we discuss:

    • Balancing Personal and Professional Growth: Nicole’s journey from local government service to entrepreneurship highlights how personal experiences a...
    Mark as Played
    **Podcast Summary:** In this episode, “Why Your Resolutions Don’t Stick (and What You Really Need to Change),” I take a heartfelt look at my own history with New Year’s resolutions—how they often mirrored my deepest longings, especially around weight loss. I share the realization that flipping the calendar doesn’t magically instill resolve or transform habits overnight. Instead, I explore how our practices and patterns often run ...
    Mark as Played

    Popular Podcasts

      The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

      Crime Junkie

      Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

      The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

      The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

      Stuff You Should Know

      If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

      The Bobby Bones Show

      Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.

    Advertise With Us
    Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

    Connect

    © 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.