In this special holiday episode, we revisit a moving conversation from 2005 with Grandpa Caleb, whose wisdom and generosity offer a powerful reminder of what Christmas is truly about.

Rather than buying toys or material gifts, Grandpa Caleb shares how he chose to give his grandchildren and great-grandchildren gifts that keep on giving—goats, chickens, llamas, and support for children rescued from human trafficking—inviting them to experience the joy of generosity, compassion, and global connection.

Together, we reflect on how easily the season can drift into obligation and consumerism, and how opening our hearts matters far more than opening our wallets. The conversation closes with a classic Hug Nation moment: a shared breath, a self-hug, and a remembrance that we are all part of one human family.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with the spirit of giving, and remember that love, fellowship, and kindness are the greatest gifts we can offer—at the holidays and always.

This episode of Hug Nation is a soulful clip show drawn from recent live broadcasts, weaving together gratitude, humor, spiritual inquiry, and heartfelt reflection.

I share some simple but powerful partner practices Lisa & I use to deepen appreciation.

I also answer a listener’s question about beginning a spiritual “cleanse” after a difficult relationship, and reflect on why presence—more than fixing or striving—is often the most healing path forward.

Along the way, we explore why humor belongs on the spiritual path, how negativity can feel safer than vulnerability, and why expressing what you love is a radical act of courage. I also reads an except from my book, "Letter to Remind Myself Who I Want to be Today."

**NEW: I'm answering questions/offering perspectives on the air in response to viewer submissions. Send me something!

💗 Highlights from 11.19.25 Hug Nation Live — “Boundaries, Compassion, and Doing Our Best”

In this episode of Hug Nation Live, we share a vibration of presence, gratitude, and gentle self-reflection. Whether you're tuning in live or watching the recording, your energy is part of the circle.

Together, we explore:

Why your worth isn’t measured by grand tasks, but by the energies and attitudes you bring into each moment.

How setting boundaries—from a grounded and compassionate place—can transform your relationships and your peace of mind, especially for empaths and recovering people-pleasers.

A beautiful story of gifting groceries becomes a reminder that when we prime ourselves for kindness, opportunities to serve naturally appear.

I shared the heartfelt note I mailed myself written at last year’s Love Ambassador gathering.

Then we do a deep dive into judgment, personal history, cultural conditioning, and how compassion helps us see behaviors (like littering!) through a wider lens.

We look at how to turn “me vs. you” battles into “us vs. the problem,” inviting others into heroism rather than defensiveness.

We close with a communal self-hug, a breath, and a reminder that even if this is the only place you feel safe to be authentic—it counts, and you belong here.

If you’re watching this, you’re part of a movement that is choosing compassion, growth, and service—even when it’s hard. Thank you for being one of the people who would rather hug than hurt.

Get info on the Love Ambassador Meetup

http://meetup.hugnation.com

📅 January 10–11, San Diego
A deep, transformational gathering of heart-centered humans.
(A few spots left!)

Visit LifeStudent.com for links to my other offerings, gatherings, and heart-centered creations.