Mary Tess Rooney, Author at Mary Tess Rooney

EP105: Reuniting & Remembering

As we go through life, there are moments we like to remember, or we occasionally circle back to situations. What happens when years or decades pass? This episode talks about the feelings of reuniting and remembering.

This weekend I have a high school reunion. It’s been several decades. I went to a catholic high school in Delaware that was small and intimate, graduating with a class of 90 individuals. Thinking back, I played volleyball, softball, and was on the bowling team. I enjoyed my time there, even the times I got in trouble. My high school years gave me space to expand and grow while around supportive people.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP105’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. The word “reunion” is tied to a meaning of strengthening a connection or remembering as we reunite. You can reconnect with people, places, hobbies, or anything that contributed to your life. Before my high school reunion, I wanted to explore what this word means to me and what it could mean to you, my fellow Striders.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about my upcoming high school reunion and other things I’m reconnecting with, such as college friends and hobbies. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you want to have a reunion?
- Is there an activity or group of people that you want to strengthen the connection with?
- Is there an area of your life that you want to remember or acknowledge how it helped you change or evolve?
- Are there people that you want to gather with who have been on your mind?

What makes reunions so special is that they are a chance to peek into our life archive. We get to appreciate the different outlook that we’ve taken on as a result of the different phases of our life. Reunions show an evolution from where we were to where we are to sharing dreams for our future.

Remember your roots and your transitions with these Wise Walk questions:

- Is there something in your life that you have had a reunion experience with that you cherish?
- Are there people you can celebrate these milestones with?
- Where in your life can you bring something together again?
- Can you take action to support your need for what lights you up?
- Is there someone in your life that you want to create that reunion-like quality with so you both show up in these phases of life?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[03:17] – What is the definition of reunion?

[05:34] – Who do you want to reconnect with?

[07:43] – Mary Tess talks about getting back to running with a runners club. How has it been so far?

[10:30] – Connecting with like-minded individuals is important to see what’s possible in ourselves.

[12:17] – Mary Tess plans to meet up with a friend from college. It’s one of the few times per year they reconnect.

[15:08] – Reunions are a chance to give gratitude to those who inspire us.

[17:39] – Mary Tess talks about growing and expanding as we move through life, even when things get awkward.

[18:46] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I am going to show up, be open, and see what comes my way.” – Mary Tess
“Every phase of life, every individual, and every experience is just adding value to everything that we do.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP104: NO is Empowering

A simple “No” is all you need. It can feel awkward sometimes, but what people don’t realize is that “No” can be freeing and thoughtful. Sometimes you have to say “No” or you’ll be giving less than what you’re capable of being. That’s not good for you or anyone else. This episode talks about how saying “No” is empowering.

Empowerment is a feeling of being aligned with our intentions. In life, there are moments where you need to say “No” to stay in tune with your authentic self. You communicate a clear intention with “No” that tells people what you will or will not engage.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP104’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. The most powerful part of “No” is that it’s a complete statement. Saying “No” is a very healthy boundary that keeps you aligned and frees you up to receive better aligned opportunities. A “No” can save you from wasting time or draining your energy.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about why “No” is empowering and ways to communicate “No” if you feel hesitant. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- How often do you use “No” in your life?
- Do you find yourself explaining your “No” because you feel like you owe people a reason?
- What’s the feeling that arises in you when you know you have to say “No” to something?
- Are there times in your life where you feel a “No” is in your best interest?
- If you hesitate to say “No”, does that cause friction since the other person is not able to make their next choice?

When something is presented to you and it doesn’t feel right, you can say “No”. What you say “Yes” or “No” to will create ripples in your life. You should want those ripples to reflect your true self.

Confidently say “No” without over-explaining. A few clear and kind responses include:

- No, but thank you for including me (or thinking of me).
- No, but I’m sure you can work through that or get additional resources you need.
- No, but I appreciate your offer.

Create personal boundaries with these Wise Walk questions:

- Can you exercise your ability to say “No” so that it becomes easier for you?
- Why are you triggered by saying “No”?
- What feelings or explanations surface when this happens?
- How can you shift your energy to express your feelings in an empowering and confident way?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:21] – Saying “No” can be energizing.

[04:17] – Mary Tess points out how we never explain a “Yes” the way we do a “No.”

[05:47] – Mary Tess shares how you can intentionally express your support without feeling guilt or obligation.

[07:30] – Saying ‘No’ can free you up and free others up as well.

[09:36] – We can all move on from a “No.”

[11:02] – Are you doing what’s best for you?

[13:52] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“Every time we create those personal boundaries without explanation, or clearly and lovingly expressing what our hearts are saying, then people can respond in-kind. They can receive it, take that information, and make the best decisions for their life too.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP103: Space to Feel the Feels

Some sensations and emotions remain with us long after the moment passes. Are you allowing yourself to release whatever is stored in your body, heart, and mind? This episode talks about giving yourself space to feel the feels.

The 21st Anniversary of September 11th recently happened. I’m actually recording this episode on 9/11/22 after commemorating this significant day at the race hosted by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. It’s my first time participating at the St. Augustine, FL location around new people. During the event I shared laughter and tears among the community of people gathered for the race. Being together reminded me of how we as a community, and humanity, can unite in kindness.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP103’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. With a day like this, I knew it’d be important to allow myself to feel the feels. While giving myself space and grace, you also came to my mind. How can people engage past trauma and past emotions in a healthy way? We can explore this question together in the safe space of our Wise Walk.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about showing up for yourself and holding space for your wide range of emotions. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- When you honor September 11th, or any significant date in your past, do you give space and grace to really allow those emotions to surface?
- Whether your emotions are highs or lows, do you allow yourself to feel the feels in that moment?
- What can you do to honor that awareness?
- In what ways are you expressing the emotion?
- If you feel called to cry, do you know why you’re crying?

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation continues to spread their impact and honor the heroism of September 11th, 2001. The wonderful community takes time to be present for the emotions and lessons we carried from that day forward.

Each of us has a unique experience of these events. Feel and honor your emotions with these Wise Walk questions:

- Can you also zoom out to the big picture and notice everyone around you?
- Do you see an opportunity to connect with them if you’re willing to open up to each other?
- As you do hard things in life, in what ways can you call upon your inner strength?
- Do you hold space to feel the feels?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[00:47] – Mary Tess talks about the Tunnel to Towers Foundation race she takes part in to honor September 11th.

[02:42] – Honor your emotions. Each of us has a unique experience of these events.

[04:25] – Mary Tess expresses how she feels running a race to honor the heroism shown during September 11th.

[07:01] – Mary Tess explains the emotions she connects with the sound of bagpipes. She shares its significance.

[09:16] – How can people engage past trauma and past emotions in a healthy way?

[11:07] – We have freedom because of the heroic service of everyday people.

[13:35] – How can you honor the emotions of significant past events?

[15:28] – “This is a day I know I need to hold space for.”

[17:11] – Mary Tess reflects on the impact the charitable event may have on the kids who attend with their parents.

[18:54] – There is beauty in these moments of remembrance.

[20:47] – “I am stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for.”

[23:12] – Everyday is a blessing.

[24:58] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“We get to live because so many people step up and do brave acts. And they sacrifice because of their service.” – Mary Tess
“I am stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

EP102: Unite in Kindness & Never Forget

Kindness wins overall. It’s the feeling that brings us together and the feeling that helps us connect with each other. This episode talks about coming together to unite in kindness and never forgetting the power of community.

This coming Sunday marks the 21st Anniversary of September 11th. If you’re anything like me, you remember exactly where you were and what was happening. Not just that day, but the weeks, months, and years that followed. That day changed our country and the world. There was heartache, suffering, and loss, but we also connected as humans.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP102’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. I recall how I lived life in NYC before and after September 11th. As I reflect on that time, I recall how our energy and attention shifted from the hustle and bustle to a more intentional slow down to look each other in the eyes and connect with our neighbors on a more emotional level. Also, we began to think about how to take full advantage of the life we’ve been given or to support others in their pursuit of peace and possibilities.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about slowing down so we can honor the presence of each other. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life can you notice emotions that are surfacing in you?
- Is there someone in your surroundings that you can share that emotion with?
- Can you pick up on the energy of the people around you and see what support you can offer them?

We don’t have to be alone. We can give each other strength. Let’s appreciate what’s going on in ourselves and the community around us.

The world changed forever on that day, but we learned how to support each other. Elevate humanity with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you need to notice your own emotions or those around you?
- When you see an opportunity to give support, will you show up?
- Are you sharing your value to help increase humanity?
- Where can you show your kindness and inspire yourself or others to be more empathetic?
- Can you release the limiting expectations?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:16] – Mary Tess says she learned to slow down more after the moments of September 11th while living in New York.

[02:48] – We don’t have to be alone.

[05:35] – An outpouring of love and support.

[07:55] – How can we support each other?

[10:40] – Crisis calls us to be present.

[12:53] – Mary Tess shares what she is doing to commemorate September 11th.

[14:08] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“It’s amazing what we can accomplish together when we are awakened to a need and shown an opportunity to help someone in need.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP100: Top Lessons from 100 Episodes

Can you believe True Stride is celebrating 100 episodes? Striders, together, we came far in this journey of joy, reflection, and self-awareness. It’s amazing to think we spent 100 Wise Walks expanding and growing together.

In this episode, I’m excited to reflect on our experiences over the 100 episodes and talk about lessons learned.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP100’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. Looking back at the conversations from different episodes felt like an archeological experiment. Let’s take time to slow down and celebrate.

On our Wise Walk, I give you the top 10 lessons that contribute to finding your True Stride. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where have you asked for help on something because you don’t yet have the self-belief to pursue your goal?
- Can you celebrate milestones with the people who help you?
- What’s been fulfilling and what’s been difficult on your journey?
- What are you ready to let go of to make more space for things that light you up?
- Are you slowing down and checking in with your feelings to make sure that you’re living your best life according to your Heart Value rules?
- What do you really want, and how are you getting clear on the steps to get there?
- When fear starts to arise, do you know that means you have an opportunity to grow?

It’s okay to use this time to restart or reset. Reflecting on these top 10 lessons can help you reevaluate what you’re doing to show up as your authentic self.

Your Heart Value is meant to be shared with the world. Drop into your heart and pay attention to your inner compass with these Wise Walk questions:

- What is one thing you’re going to do today to support your vital life force energy and your breath?
- What talent do you want to exercise, make stronger, or bring to light in a new way?
- What are you doing to cultivate your authentic presence?
- How can you follow your heart and create abundance in your life?
- What’s one action you can take to build financial stability?
- What does success on your terms look like?
- What did you learn from your toughest storm?
- Who stood by you during the storm?
- What “failures” in your life have become investments in your Value Vault?

I am grateful for this Striders’ community and all who contributed to the True Stride podcast. During this milestone 100th episode, I reference and give gratitude to the following individuals within these lessons learned:

Reflect, reflect, reflect!
1. JT Mulvihill, Host Cancer and Chill podcast and Radio Consultant
2. Susie Perkowitz, Sheep Jam Productions
3. Jeffrey Shaw, The Self-Employed Life (EP51)
4. Leigh Farrow, speaker and author of Leadership Nuts (EPs 69, 56, 18)
5. Katie Delnero, Fashion Consultant, Realtor and Home Stylist
Drop into your heart
1. Joe Hawley, Founder Härt Collective and host of the Quantum Coffee Podcast (EP57)
2. Kristin Kaufman, executive coach, founder of Alignment, author of “Is This Seat Taken?” book trilogy (EP48)
Fearlessly go for it!
1. Emily Adams, Surviving to Thriving coach, speaker, and writer (EP50)
2. William Branum, retired Navy SEAL and former SEAL Sniper Instructor, is the founder and CEO of Naked Warrior Recovery (EP68)
Breathe to expand
1. Anna Tansley is a kundalini yoga teacher and entrepreneur of Choices + Outcomes (EP76)
2. Dr. Melissa Jordan, Doctorate in Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and practitioner for life force in different modalities (EP52)
Create space
Shine your bright, radiant light!
1. Shelley Brown, speaker, author, mindfulness edutainer of the W.E.I.R.D. process (EP77)
You are your best investment
1. Susanne Mariga, Author of Profit First For Minority Business Enterprises, host of The Profit Talk and owner of Mariga CPA PLLC (EP54)
2. Tara E. Nolan, money strategist and author of Money Moves: Change Where Your Money Lives and Change How Your Financial World Grows (EP74)
Play and prioritize fun!
1. Ryan Cwick, Sun/solar consultant, industrial engineer, and travel coach (EP58)
2. Dawn Calvinisti, DoTerra Wellness Coach and As Good As It Gets Summit host (EP73)
Make-up your own rules for your EPIC adventure
1. Susan M. Barber, executive coach, author and host of The Visibility Factor (EP29)
2. AJ Harper editor, publishing strategist and author of Write a Must-Read: Craft a Book That Changes Lives–Including Your Own. (EP97)
Surround yourself with love and appreciation for your highs and lows
1. Michelle J. Lamont, Manifestation guru, PR professional, Manifesting Miracles host (EP53)
2. Tim Douglas, coach, speaker and host of The Inspired Way (EP55)
3. Dr. Chelsea Wakefield (EP63), Don Khouri (EP46), Gena Cox (EP44), Kasey Compton (EP47), Dana Knox Wright (EP49), JJ Thomas (EP20), Ron Rothberg (EP71)

Remember to play and prioritize fun, always!!

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:00] – Reflect. Reflect. Reflect.

[03:20] – Mary Tess gives a shout out to the key people who helped her early on in this podcast journey.

[05:39] – Drop into your heart to listen to what’s calling you, what feels right, and what feels off.

[07:51] – Getting in touch with your heart will give you the freedom to choose again.

[09:49] – Follow your intuition to stay in alignment.

[11:27] – Fearlessly go for it!

[13:49] – Take the opportunity when you see it.

[15:51] – Breathe to expand.

[18:46] – Create space and a nurturing environment.

[20:33] – Get brave, and share your Heart Value with the world.

[22:52] – You are your best investment.

[25:23] – Tell yourself more empowering narratives.

[28:00] – Prioritize fun along the way.

[30:31] – When it comes to your life, you make the rules.

[31:57] – Explore what your Heart Value rules look like.

[33:51] – Surround yourself with love and appreciation for your highs and lows.

[35:26] – You can turn life lessons into leverage.

[37:01] – Mary Tess expresses deep gratitude for Striders and everyone who is on this EPIC adventure alongside her.

[38:59] – Continue to grow in a way authentic to you.

[41:18] – Shout out to Mary Tess’ Mom!

[42:32] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“Pay attention to your inner compass. Because this is your life.” – Mary Tess
“Believe in yourself. Support yourself. And don’t hesitate. Just put one foot in front of the other. Take one small step after the other to find your True Stride.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Full Episodes of Guest Highlights Mentioned:

EP99: Messages to Slow Down

Have you ever noticed how clumsy you seem when you’re in a rush? You’re bumping into things. You’re dropping things. Everything feels off, and it’s not the best timing. This episode talks about messages to slow down.

I was moving a bin to the garage and tweaked my back. The irony is that I know how to safely lift large items (tip: bend your knees!), but I was in a rush. Of course, that’s when accidents happen. We get ourselves into trouble when we’re not really present or paying attention to the moment. While I’m nursing back pain, it’s a chance and reminder to slow down.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP99’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. Before I tweaked my back, I had big plans for the weekend, including a training plan for a 5K race (3.1 miles). That plan needs to pivot for it to still be in motion and not cause more damage to my physical health. In life, you need to listen to your body and figure out how to support it.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about noticing whatever your body is communicating to you. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- When your body communicates misalignment, pain, or struggle are you paying attention to it?
- Are you slowing down and seeing how you can bring yourself back into alignment?
- What ways are you incorporating better choices for yourself?
- As you figure out what your body needs, can you review your calendar to shift your priorities?
- Is there anything to let go of?
- Is there anything going on with your body right now that you feel that you need to be more present for?
- Are you paying attention to what your body is communicating to you?
- Are you slowing down enough, and checking your reality, to reflect on what you can do to support the healing and nourishment your body needs so you can be your best self?
- Are you aware of the grounding forces in your life?

You can rebalance yourself with habits or interests that bring you peace. For me, nutrition, exercise, and meditation support my alignment and well being. What are your grounding components so you can show up as your best?

Whatever set back or struggle you experience, move at the pace that feels right to you to get back on track. Be present without rushing with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in life are you getting derailed?
- Where in your life have you noticed stress affecting how you show up?
- How do you want to show up for yourself when you notice your stress?
- Can you give yourself grace and space to heal from whatever is taking you off course?
- Can you go back to your grounding modalities that make you feel aligned?
- What are the things that are going to rebuild you, so you can reset and come back even stronger?
- How can you set realistic expectations to achieve supportive goals?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:54] – Are you paying attention to what your body needs?

[03:39] – Mary Tess is prepping to run a 5K. What’s her plan?

[06:28] – Your body communicates with you. Are you noticing the signs?

[07:50] – Mary Tess talks about how nourishment plays a role in supporting her body.

[10:24] – Get in touch with your grounding components that align you.

[12:19] – Stress is a major contributor to misalignment. How can we manage it?

[14:38] – Rebalance yourself after stressful moments.

[16:44] – Reset so you can come back stronger.

[19:32] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I need to be patient with myself.” – Mary Tess
“We’re not going to be our best selves for what we want, and we’re not going to be our best selves for others, if we don’t feel aligned.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP98: The Power of Your Pen

Every individual adds a unique flair to this world we share. Your thoughts, words, and expressions deserve to be celebrated. It’s time to intentionally set a practice of documenting and acknowledging your authentic self. This episode talks about the power of your pen.

This past week, I’m continuing to purge and generally clean up loose ends. In the middle of this, I discovered an old journal entry tucked in the pages of an old book I swiped through. It’s from around a decade ago during my divorce. As I read it, I recalled the relationship, the co-dependency, and the change I needed at that time. The words in that journal entry were a reflection of shifting my focus back to myself instead of prioritizing others. The power of the pen kept that beautiful transition ingrained in that journal entry.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP98’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. The power of the pen reminds me of the efforts and contributions I made to evolve into the me I am today. Actually, another way the power of the pen shows up in my life is my dream journal. I started writing my dreams down as a gift to myself. In this way, I acknowledge and nurture my unique dreams and reflections of my inner world.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about honoring how you show up in the world with the power of the pen. Like a gratitude journal or scripting for manifestation, you can give your desires the recognition they need to thrive. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you want to shift something and have you taken time to write it down for yourself?
- If you have written it down, is it easily accessible for you? (ex. printed out or on a vision board)
- What are other ways in your life that you use the power of your pen?
- Where in your life are you exercising the power of your pen?
- Is there something in your life that you want to acknowledge or honor what’s unique about you?
- Will you take time for yourself and create the power of the pen so that you can see your uniqueness visually?

Allow yourself to express your thoughts through visuals or words. You can plan a vision board, or write a memo to yourself, or doodle affirmations.

In tune with this, connecting to the power of the pen can open a space for support. Your words may offer support to someone else or they can communicate what support you’d like from others. Gift the power of your pen with these Wise Walk questions:

- Can you gift the power of your pen?
- Where in your life do you have the ability to document what’s important to you?
- Are you making a commitment to document what you need support on?
- What are the different ways that you can document what you want to manifest or recognize to elevate your reality?
- Where in your life can you exercise the power of your thoughts and expression?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[03:00] – The power of the written word.

[05:10] – Mary Tess shares how she reflects on her vivid dreams.

[07:02] – Allow yourself to express your thoughts visually and verbally.

[09:50] – Gift the power of the pen.

[11:31] – Mary Tess explores how the power of the pen can connect you to support.

[13:06] – Know when you deserve to get recognized for your efforts. Start by acknowledging yourself.

[15:45] – Cherish your contribution to the world and how you uniquely show up.

[18:06] – Exercise your power to express, whether by pen or digitally.

[20:35] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“We have the power to use our words and document them in a way that benefits us and that other people can support what we want.” – Mary Tess
“Don’t let your wonderful contributions and your amazing gifts and talents go unnoticed.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP97: Write Your Story in Your Truest Voice with AJ Harper

Our Heart Value can serve us and others in so many ways. You can transfer a huge amount of encouragement or empowerment by confidently telling the story of your True Stride. This episode talks about how to write your story for the peeps in your life that matter most.

AJ Harper is an editor and publishing strategist who helps authors write transformational books that enable them to build readership, grow their brand, and make a significant impact on the world. As a ghostwriter and as a developmental editor, she has worked with hundreds of authors, from newbies to New York Times bestselling authors with millions of books sold. She is the Head Writing Coach for Heroic Public Speaking, the premier speaker training program created by Michael and Amy Port. She is writing partner to business author Mike Michalowicz. AJ is also the author of Write a Must-Read: Craft a Book That Changes Lives–Including Your Own.

On EP 76’s Wise Walk, AJ and I discuss how you can find your truth and write a story that speaks directly to people who resonate with you. I know from experience, since Heart Value would not be here without AJ. She challenged me to explore my heart-centered passions and tap into the value I wanted to give to Striders. AJ understands how to balance the needs of authors and readers to protect an author’s true intentions.

On our Wise Walk, open your mind to realize your vision for your book and learn to not compromise on what value you want to provide for readers. You’ll get useful ideas on breaking past myths and releasing the lies we tell ourselves that keep us from fully engaging our work. We’re dispelling book publishing misinformation and sharing how book writing can be a reflective process. Come with me as we reflect on AJ’s fundamentals and these Wise Walk questions:

- Who is your ideal reader?
- Who are the people you want to help?
- What is your core message?
- What is a promise you can commit to and deliver on?

AJ believes that if an author is struggling to get past the outline or the first chapter of their book, they’re probably not writing the book they’re meant to write. You have something inside of you that you want to share. You need to find out how to pull away the false filters that distort your message.

You should only want filters that honor your truth and cut out distractions. Advocate for yourself and write great books with these Wise Walk questions:

- How connected are you to your voice?
- Where in life are you adopting someone else’s voice?
- Where can you exercise validating your own voice and style?
- What are the myths you adopted as you grew up, and how can you find your actual truth?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:31] – AJ Harper loves to help people write better books.

[04:18] – How is AJ able to pull the true intentions of authors out so they gain clarity on what they are writing.

[06:00] – What is the writer’s club that AJ created?

[08:19] – AJ says she was originally fueled by anger about book publishing misinformation.

[10:03] – AJ says she developed an understanding of balancing the needs of the readers and authors.

[13:03] – People find the courage to be vulnerable when the stakes are high.

[15:08] – You are the author and editor of your life.

[17:06] – Think about a core message that guides your life, and identify what you can honestly fulfill as a promise you make to yourself.

[19:28] – Mary Tess explores what unique promise and gifts we can offer the world.

[21:07] – What is the legacy that you want to live and leave?

[23:13] – AJ says it took months for her to reconnect with her own style after her long career as a ghostwriter.

[25:55] – When you can’t access your own voice, it’s a sign that you are off kilter.

[27:53] – It doesn’t matter how many compliments you receive. You should be the one who is excited about your work.

[30:15] – Be careful of the “reasonable” inner critic that tells you all the excuses that sound true and valid.

[32:55] – Mary Tess and AJ have a discussion about Heart Value.

[35:02] – Your story will resonate with the people who have the energetic and emotional connection to your expression.

[36:35] – What are a few memorable book or author transformations AJ witnessed?

[39:16] – Mary Tess shares the new story she’s worked on lately. What was the theme?

[41:08] – Mary Tess shares that AJ is a part of the reason why she started the True Stride podcast.

[42:41] – How much does self-reflection relate to book writing?

[44:36] – Let go of the lie that’s holding you back. AJ talks about shifting your paradigm to reframe it into a truth that serves you.

[47:11] – You can have the freedom to choose again.

[49:06] – Change takes time.

[51:23] – What is AJ working on these days? She shares news about her latest clubs, workshops, and more.

[53:58] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“When you pay attention to the reader, when it’s not just about us, the book is better.” – AJ
“Once you understand the lie, the myth, and the truth, then you can make another choice. You can have that freedom to choose again.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Write a Must-Read: Craft a Book That Changes Lives–Including Your Own

AJ Harper

Write a Must Read site

LinkedIn | Facebook

EP96: Express What You Want

You are going to attract more of what you want when you are naturally standing in your truth. In those moments of sharing what you truly feel and think, you discover that your uniqueness does not need to suffer. This episode talks about expressing what we want.

I became a certified Stand Up Paddle Board yoga instructor. It was an intensive weekend but a lot of fun. It gave me great exposure to different people and how they do yoga. Since I was around people that I completely don’t know, I took the opportunity to connect with how I communicate what I want.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP96’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. My typical default is to people-please. I’m highly observant so I can easily read a room. Since I can sense what others want or need, sometimes my high empathy may prevent me from speaking up on what I want. There are times to be observant and silent, and there are times to speak up. I thought: If I know what I want, why not share it just like everyone else in the group?

On our Wise Walk, I talk about how you can express what you want to validate yourself. I urge you to realize that your voice is just as important as the people around you. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- When you are in new situations or a new environment, how often do you find yourself not sharing your voice?
- Is it because you don’t know what you want or because you have been conditioned to have a “go along & get along” mentality?
- If you do refrain from speaking up and sharing your truth, do you find yourself disappointed with yourself because how could anyone know what you really want if you’re not willing to put yourself out there and share?
- If you find yourself holding back in new situations, is there a way for you to drop into your heart, go deep, and understand what you want, then bravely share that without attachment?
- As you’re on this Wise Walk, is there a way for you to start exercising this muscle of speaking up?
- When you share what feels right for you, will you notice how it makes you feel?

The universe is encouraging you to speak up and own your truth. Try it and see what comes your way. By sharing what you want, everything around you will do a better job of supporting you.

Share your unique perspective to honor yourself. Let’s key in on what we really want with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life can you speak up and share what you want whether you’re asked or not?
- Where can you drop into your heart and say “Ok, this is what I want” and who can you share that with?
- When you do speak up, can you release the attachment of what you want?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:29] – Mary Tess shares how she dropped into her heart to discern what she wanted from what was being offered.

[04:51] – Share your unique perspective.

[07:37] – Are you allowing people to see you for who you really are?

[10:17] – Mary Tess tends to observe and watch the flow of group dynamics. How does she get the courage to speak her truth?

[13:01] – Communicating what you want can help others show up for you or help you have a good experience.

[15:12] – Mary Tess explains how she shares her preferences with her friends, whether it’s food or travel.

[17:20] – What happens when people aren’t used to you speaking up?

[20:11] – Stand in what you find is true for yourself.

[21:41] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“Wherever we are in life, whatever you’re doing, your voice matters to someone…. and if no one else, it matters to you.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources: