In this episode Judy Stewart shares the heartbreaking story of losing her beloved older brother Kurt as a child, the lasting impact of that loss on her family, and the unexpected path it set her on. She recalls small-town community support, becoming deaf after childhood illnesses, and how grief shaped her identity.

Judy also reflects on building a life of purpose — as a teacher, lawyer, mayor, and author — and offers a message of hope and resilience for children and families coping with loss. She reads from her book Lady Slipper and invites listeners to remember, grieve, and carry loved ones forward.

Discover why your brain can’t hold anxiety and genuine gratitude simultaneously: anxiety lives in the amygdala while gratitude engages the prefrontal cortex, releasing dopamine and serotonin that calm your nervous system.

Use the flashlight analogy—your attention has one beam, so by choosing to shine it on gratitude you reduce fear, build resilience, and help restore hope in stressful times.

Standing before the Three Sisters in Canmore, the speaker shares a brief reflection about trying new, scary things and taking leaps of faith this year.

They encourage listeners to challenge themselves for growth and confidence, and wish everyone an amazing weekend.