Bounce Back Stronger with Donna Ferris

All Episodes (30)

From new to old

From new to old From old to new

1. 

   1. You’ve Done Your Best – It’s Time to Let Life Flow

   In this episode, we guide you through a ten-minute meditation focused on the art of surrendering the outcome. This practice isn't about giving up, but rather about recognizing that we've done our best and it's time to let go of persistent thoughts, release control, and trust in the flow of life.We'll start by helping you relax your body and focus on your breath. As we move through the meditation, we'll explore the concept of surrendering and how to let go of attachment to outcomes. You'll be gui

   May 17,2024 09:43
2. 

   2. Moms, Memoirs and Mental Health with Mira Bartok

   “I’ve always told people who deal with a family member or someone they love with schizophrenia or some severe or even brain trauma, the essential person is in there. It's this disease or accident or whatever, that's hijacked the brain.”This is our second episode in Mental Health Awareness Month, and our guest is National Book Critics Award-winning memoir author Mira Bartok. This conversation is for anyone who loves someone struggling with a mental health condition or is looking for inspiration t

   May 11,2024 33:12
3. 

   3. Need Serenity Now? Take this Meditative Journey to Inner Peace

   In this first episode for May Mental Health Awareness Month, we delve into the meaning of "The Peace That Passes All Understanding" as we lead you through a serene, meditative journey of self-discovery and tranquility.Through simple steps, discover how to release past and future worries and remain grounded in the present moment. Experience the inherent calmness within you, regardless of external circumstances.Conclude feeling rejuvenated and better prepared to face whatever challenges may arise

   May 05,2024 09:55
4. 

   4. Coming Home to Ourselves with Stephen Cope

   “Quickly after coming to Kripalu, I noticed that when we asked people why they were there, 80 percent of them said, I want to come home to myself...  There was this kind of desperation to come to someplace that felt like home. And what is that? Well, that's being at ease with how it is in the body, how it is in the mind...beginning to notice how it all is, and being okay with it...” ~Stephen CopeJoin us for a special episode of Bounce Back Stronger as we sit down with one of the most influential

   Apr 25,2024 39:31
5. 

   5. Feel Angry or Anxious? This Meditation's For You

   Feeling angry or anxious? Overwhelmed and not sure how to manage strong emotions like resentment, jealousy, and fear?This meditation is for you.In this episode, we use the symbol of a rose to navigate intense feelings. Join us as we practice releasing difficult emotions into its cooling petals so we can learn from our feelings and emerge lighter, freer, and more at peace.This meditation is one of a dozen that accompany Donna Y. Ferris' book Bounce Back Stronger - Finding Peace and Purpose No Mat

   Apr 18,2024 09:44
6. 

   6. From Stress to Success: Three Ways Mindfulness Upgraded My Life and Career

   "You become that place where people rely on being safe...being a safer place than I was before has helped my career more than my MBA or CFA...Maybe the yoga therapy training I took was the best money ever spent."Recently, I guested on the 10X Growth Strategies podcast with Saradha Sriram to discuss one of my favorite books, The Untethered Soul.This episode replay shares how this book helped me during a difficult time and how sidelining my career to pursue a more mindful life surprisingly led to

   Apr 11,2024 23:44
7. 

   7. Six Secrets for Navigating Tough Times with Dr. Stephen S. Tang

   In this episode, Dr. Stephen S. Tang, author and biotech executive, shares his experience leading the team behind the Intelliswab Covid-19 test, which Oprah Winfrey calls the easiest of its kind.He also shares crisis and leadership insights from his book A Test for Our Time, along with his six secrets for navigating tough times and tips for those of us who have trouble blurring work and life.I learned so much from talking to Dr. Tang and admire him. Hope you will take a listen to his story.To le

   Apr 03,2024 27:45
8. 

   8. Writing Your Story – Life Lessons and Publishing Tips from Musician / Author Billy Manas

   This week’s guest, Billy Manas, is a writer, poet, truck driver, father, and talented singer-songwriter with over twenty years of experience in the music industry.You might have come across Billy's insightful Substack column, "Manas From Heaven," or caught his compelling pieces in Elephant Journal and the Good Men Project. But Billy's talents don't end there – he's also the author of "Kickass Recovery," a motivational self-help guide designed for those overcoming challenges with alcohol and subs

   Mar 27,2024 20:26
9. 

   9. Escape to Your Happy Place

   Ever wish you could blink your eyes and be in your happy place? That's what this meditation is all about. Through soothing imagery and relaxation techniques, this short meditation will guide you to leave overwhelm behind so you can be in your special place of bliss and calm. This meditation is one of a dozen that accompany Donna Y. Ferris' book Bounce Back Stronger - Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens which can be purchased here.The music for this episode is Moment by Reaching for

   Mar 19,2024 08:03
10. 

    10. Heart-Centered Advice That’ll Change Your Life with Shawn Elizabeth George

    “So rather than being focused on my circumstances, how can I look up and out above the waves and recognize that my body has cancer, but it doesn’t have to have my soul, my heart, or mind? How can I live love while I’m here?”This week’s episode features cancer survivor and author Shawn Elizabeth George. With four books under her belt, including a heartwarming children’s book about finding your place, Shawn shares her powerful insights on generating inner peace regardless of life’s challenges.Draw

    Mar 11,2024 30:00
11. 

    11. Finding Zen in Chaos with Chuck Schad

    "We have 70,000 thoughts, and 90% of them are not new. Until we see this for  what it is, we are prisoners to it."This week’s guest is Chuck Schad, a witty and wise meditation teacher who's been guiding folks through life's ups and downs for over four decades. Chuck, founder of The Inner Theater, brings a refreshing blend of humor and honesty to the world of meditation.In this engaging conversation, Chuck draws from his wealth of experience and training to shed light on how meditation can truly

    Mar 05,2024 28:59
12. 

    12. A Master Class in Memoir with Award Winning Editor Melanie Votaw

    This episode is a master class in memoir, personal essay, and self-help non-fiction. Our guest, Melanie Votaw, author, editor, and book coach, brings over two decades of editing and writing experience to the table, all in service of individuals crafting and sharing their tales of triumph.Melanie unveils the secrets behind her remarkable success in guiding others to tell their stories. From self-help books to memoirs, she has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, boasting an impressiv

    Feb 27,2024 29:46
13. 

    13. The Healing Power of Wonder with Caldecott Winner Micha Archer

    “Kids know how to wonder…they still believe anything can happen...hopefully, they pass it on to their parents…”I reached out to this week’s guest, Caldecott winner Micha Archer, after seeing her work in the Brandywine River Museum exhibition, "Rooted: Family and Nature in Contemporary Children's Book Illustration (open until February 28th)."Strolling through the exhibit with my children, I was so inspired by the enchanting illustrations in her book "Wonder Walkers" and instantly tied them to min

    Feb 21,2024 24:34
14. 

    14. Create Your Life Meditation

    "The key is consistency and dedicating intentional time to your dreams each day. You do it for so many other things, other people, and your job. Take this time to do it for you."This guided meditation invites you to create space in your mind, so you can visualize the life you dream of. This meditation accompanies the Create Your Life chapter of the book Bounce Back Stronger - Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens which you can purchase here.The music for this meditation is The Light W

    Feb 18,2024 11:32
15. 

    15. The Unexpected Joy of Being Single with Crystal Jackson

    “I don’t look at being single as a sad thing. I’ve gotten really comfortable with it, and I think it’s beautiful.”This week we delve deep into the heart of author and therapist Crystal Jackson's journey. With candor, humor, and authenticity, Crystal shares her experiences of love, divorce, and the unexpected joys of singlehood. But it's not just about navigating life solo; Crystal opens up about the profound friendships and newfound confidence that have blossomed along the way. From navigating l

    Feb 13,2024 27:27
16. 

    16. Breaking Broadway Barriers with Madison Ferris

    "Ultimately, you don't really have a choice of what you like to do...I find if I say yes to the opportunities that do come along it makes me a whole lot happier."I'm so excited to share this interview with Broadway actress Madison Ferris.At just 25 years old, Madison Ferris left an indelible mark on Broadway history by becoming the first actress in a wheelchair to play a leading role. In Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie, she took on the challenging part of Laura Wingfield, the reclusive d

    Feb 06,2024 22:43
17. 

    17. Women and Heart Health – Surprising Facts You Need to Know

    "It's important that we put ourselves at the top of the to-do list. We don't need to be number one, or two or three, but come on - let's be in the top five."This week’s guest has a story that is nothing short of remarkable—Leigh Pechillo survived a widow-maker heart attack and overcame not one but four sudden cardiac arrests. Rather than letting these challenges define her, she has emerged as a passionate advocate for women and heart health as well as a staunch supporter of Hands-Only CPR awaren

    Jan 30,2024 23:10
18. 

    18. Find Happiness After Loss with Maria Sirois

    Five years ago, I attended a retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health with this week's podcast guest, Maria Sirois. It was the first anniversary of a dear one's passing and even though I thought I was making progress in my healing journey, the anniversary dragged up the loss as if it was new. After three days with Maria, I understood what was happening to me, had the tools to move forward, and was able to get back on the healing path.A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to interview he

    Jan 22,2024 29:16
19. 

    19. The Best Gift for Our Kids with Laura Ward

    Join us for this heartfelt conversation with sobriety coach Laura Ward, who shares the many reasons why she broke free from alcohol. Top of the list?Her children. In this candid discussion, Laura openly shares the tools she provides to her clients - which are valuable for anyone on a personal growth journey - whether dealing with a complicated medical diagnosis, guiding teenagers through challenging moments, confronting unforeseen job loss, or grieving significant losses.I learned so much from t

    Jan 16,2024 33:25
20. 

    20. Finding Your Way to Peace and Happiness with Sharon Salzberg

    In this transformative episode of Bounce Back Stronger, we have the privilege of sitting down with a true pioneer in the world of meditation, Sharon Salzberg. As a world-renowned teacher, bestselling author, and co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, Sharon has been at the forefront of bringing mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture for nearly five decades.Join us as we delve into Sharon's incredible journey, exploring how she came to write her new book F

    Jan 08,2024 37:15
21. 

    21. 2024 Astrology Predictions and the Saturn Return with CosmiColleen

    This week, we have CosmiColleen, the amazing host of The Weekly Awakening Podcast as our guest.  Listen in to this fun and enlightening conversation to hear how understanding our horoscopes has helped us both navigate difficult times (and people).Colleen's story is pure inspiration – she got into podcasting as a creative outlet to get through relationship drama and now, she helps her clients navigate their lives and loves with astrology.In this episode, Colleen also spills the cosmic tea on what

    Jan 02,2024 30:27
22. 

    22. Leave People Pleasing Behind and Live a Life You Love with Susie Pettit

    Join us for a transformative episode of Bounce Back Stronger featuring our special guest, Susie Pettit – a certified Parent, Life + Wellness Coach, and mother of five sons aged 18-26. As the host of the Love Your Life podcast, Susie brings a wealth of experience and invaluable insights to guide us in moving beyond our "good enough” lives to embrace our extraordinary potential.In this conversation, Susie shares her personal journey of transformation following the loss of a dear friend. This catal

    Dec 26,2023 34:37
23. 

    23. Building Lasting Connections with Maureen Ross Gemme

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to build and maintain thriving decades-long relationships?In this episode, Maureen Ross Gemme, CEO of Emerge Leadership Academy, will share how she’s managed to do this while navigating not a little bit of home life chaos. Episode Highlights:The Art of Building Lasting Relationships: Maureen opens up about the ways she builds enduring relationships (hint: go to retreats).Tools for Transformation: As the author of "Emerge: 7 Steps to Transformation (No Matter

    Dec 19,2023 21:16
24. 

    24. 2024 Predictions and Growing into Your Spiritual Britches with Psychic Cristina Leeson

    Embark on a captivating journey with International Psychic Medium Cristina Leeson in this week's podcast episode as she unveils the fascinating story of her evolution into a spiritual leader. Join us as Cristina shares her unique perspective on spirituality and imparts her empowering guidance for the transformative year ahead, 2024.With an impressive background spanning over two decades, Cristina has dedicated herself to teaching, conducting readings, and guiding individuals on a quest to redisc

    Dec 11,2023 45:05
25. 

    25. A Netflix Worthy Love Story with Gin Carter

    In this heartwarming episode of "Bounce Back Stronger," we delve into the extraordinary love story of Gin Carter - a marine biologist, author, yoga/meditation teacher, and veterinary student - whose pursuit of happiness led her to challenge and change laws. We follow Gin as she navigates the legal landscape, breaks barriers, and ultimately reshapes the rules for the sake of true love. But this episode isn't just about Gin's remarkable journey. We also explore the broader theme of animals as heal

    Dec 05,2023 28:51
26. 

    26. Leave Guilt Behind with Erin Byron

    Get ready to dive deep with Erin Byron, who we are honored to have as our first guest! She's not your average therapist – Erin's a Registered Psychotherapist, yoga therapist, and co-author of books like "Yoga for the Creative Soul," and the brain behind Trauma Aware Certified Training.We kick things off by chatting about what Erin's noticing in her students and clients post-pandemic. And surprisingly guilt becomes the topic du jour and why leaving it behind is the key to real healing. Then, we g

    Nov 28,2023 34:53
27. 

    27. Bonus - A Short Mindfulness Practice

    This four-minute mindfulness practice provides a bit of calm. Hope you will take a listen and share it with those who might benefit. Thank you.

    Nov 22,2023 04:26
28. 

    28. Mindfulness for the Difficult Days (including Holidays)

    This episode is a salve for the difficult days which can include holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, or just a day when we are overwhelmed with emotions. One of the best tools for those days is mindfulness - and my favorite mindfulness teacher? My WonderDog, Jake - because dogs are masters of staying in the moment.Listen to hear what I mean and how mindfulness can help us stop ruminating thoughts, and focus on generating self-compassion and resilience.Towards the end of the episode, I will lead

    Nov 21,2023 11:59
29. 

    29. The Science of Resilience

    In this episode we unravel the science of resilience, because I'm a skeptic, and always like a little science in my wisdom. Listen in for insights from the teachings of the late Dr. Steven Southwick - a distinguished expert in psychology and neuroscience from Yale - and learn how we all can apply his teachings to our lives. So we can Bounce Back Stronger from whatever life throws our way.For more information on our free December workshop Managing Grief / Loss at the Holidays click here.For infor

    Nov 15,2023 09:25
30. 

    30. Bounce Back Stronger Introduction - Only The Brave Run Wild

    Welcome to "Bounce Back Stronger," the podcast where we learn to not just survive, but thrive the challenges that disrupt - and ultimately enrich - our lives.Sometimes by being brave and running wild.I'm your podcast host, Donna Ferris, and my hope is through personal stories, scientific research, and well-worn wisdom, "Bounce Back Stronger" creates a community where vulnerability, healing, and purpose are discovered amid life's darkest moments.Listen to learn more, and join this transformative

    Nov 12,2023 02:46