The Dream Catcher Podcast

Ikigai: What is it and How it Can Help You Find Purpose and Meaning in Life

Finding purpose in life is something most of us want. But asking about your purpose can seem like too lofty an aspiration. Fortunately, there are models we can use to unravel our unique purposes, one of them being Ikigai. 

Ikigai is a Japanese word that represents the passions, talents, and professions that give meaning and allow us to contribute to the world. 

Learn more about finding your Ikigai and how you can use it to discover your bliss.

Linguistic Discrimination: How it Influences Our View On Others

With over 7000 languages worldwide, languages are a hallmark of cultural diversity. Even in English-speaking countries, people speak with linguistic variances and fluency. 

Yet, many people don’t appreciate this diversity and discriminate against those who don’t sound “normal” to them. Linguistic racism is a term used to describe racism perpetuated against others based on their language use. 

Learn how this bias impacts how we see other people and what we can do to become more sensitive to linguistic discrimination.

[Interview] Surviving Storms: How to Deal with Challenges & Adversities (feat. Mark Nepo)

We all face adversity from time to time, but some of us are able to flourish when things get difficult, while others seem to struggle. So, what does it take to stand firm during these tough times?

According to my guest Mark Nepo, the key to standing strong against life’s unavoidable storms is to know our true self and solidify our connection to all Spirit and all life. He's here to explain more.

Mark Nepo is a poet and philosopher who has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for over 40 years. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, he has published 22 books and his work has been translated into over 20 languages. Mark has been interviewed several times by Oprah Winfrey and was also chosen as one of OWN's SuperSoul 100, a group of inspired leaders using their gifts and voices to elevate humanity. In 2015, he was given a Life-Achievement Award by AgeNation. In 2016 he was named one of the 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People by Watkins: Mind Body Spirit.

During our conversation, Mark offers his valuable insights and practical steps on navigating difficulties based on principles from his book “Surviving Storms.” He eloquently brings us to common passages and paths, urging us forward on the journey. 

If you liked what you heard, please don’t forget to like, rate, share and subscribe to this podcast. Thank you!

Why it’s Important to Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome For Success

In our pursuit of success, the process takes time and effort. 

Our society contributes to our disdain for the process of achieving our goals—we reward winners and disregard the ones who tried. We don’t get to see the steps that led to glory. 

But there’s no shortcut to success, and we must do our due diligence. 

Learn five reasons to love the process and the steps you can take to make the journey enjoyable as you head toward your dreams.

Dating Out Of Your League: What it Means (and what it should mean)

When we say someone is “out of your league,” often we’re referring to attractiveness, but it can also be a combination of wealth, social status, and looks, or simply your belief that they are better than you in some way. 

As shallow as the idea of “leagues” are, the truth is that we all size people up. But is partnering with someone out of your league an ethical vehicle to gain social currency? 

Learn a better alternative to a transaction mentality in love that’s genuine and kind.

[Interview] The Art of Humility: Why Being Humble Makes You Happier (feat. Daryl R. Van Tongeren)

Narcissism is on the rise: it manifests in people we know, celebrities, influencers, politicians—and even, from time to time, in ourselves.

The drive to self-promote has seduced many people to become someone they’re not.But there is a powerful tool that can help us defeat it: humility.

Following the latest science, Daryl Van Tongeren shines a light on this ancient virtue in his book titled “Humble.” He’s here to unpack his findings on this very important topic.

Daryl R. Van Tongeren, PhD, is an associate professor of psychology at Hope College. As a social psychologist, he has published over 160 scholarly articles, coauthored The Courage to Suffer, and currently serves as associate editor for The Journal of Positive Psychology. His research has been covered by The New York Times, Washington Post, and NPR affiliate radio stations.

In this interview, we do a deep dive into humility: how ego has become pervasive in our culture and what we can do to keep it in check as we advance in our lives and teach it to younger generations. Daryl speaks about the types of humility and how it can build confidence, help us achieve success, and make our world a better and kinder place.

If you liked what you heard, please don’t forget to like, rate, share and subscribe to this podcast. Thank you!

Can You Find Your True Self? The 7 Layers of Identity Can Help.

Your true self is what makes you who you are. 

There are parts of you that have a sense of “rightness” to them, however, finding your true self is not straightforward. It’s a layered process with many stages of realization. 

The seven layers of identity are one of many systems you can use to better understand what makes you the unique individual you are and how you can reach your full potential.

Link to “Your Woo Woo Best Friend” podcast: https://www.ouiwegirl.com/podcast

Monotheism and Polytheism: What Are the Differences (and How to Respect Them)?

There is a smorgasbord of religions around the world. Each faith tradition captures our culture, history, and practices that get passed down through generations. 

If all religions are correctly understood, we'll see that they are simply different windows we use for looking at higher realms of living and being. 

By learning about the differences between monotheism and polytheism, we'll broaden our horizons and participate in cultivating religious tolerance in our society so that we can coexist in harmony.

[Interview] How to Find Your Voice and Express Your Unique Gifts (feat. Cynthia James)

The voice is about expression, communication, or a proclamation.

But many people are afraid to use it to talk about what they want, feel, think, or believe. They withhold for fear of being ridiculed, punished, or excluded – especially with the rise of cancel culture.

Cynthia James, knows this—because that was her experience. She’s here to share what she learned from her seven decades of experience, trying to step into her power and find her own voice.

Cynthia James is a transformational specialist and the author of three award-winning and bestselling books. She has co-hosted a radio talk show, a television talk show and is a sought-after radio guest. An ordained licensed minister, she has facilitated hundreds of workshops, seminars, and keynotes, including Celebrate Your Life, Omega Institute, and Woman Arising. 

During our conversation, Cynthia explains why our voice matters and how to use it to express new ideas that transform ourselves and others. She also offers advice on overcoming common obstacles and amplifying our voices so that we can be heard and create an impact.

If you liked what you heard, please don’t forget to like, rate, share and subscribe to this podcast. Thank you!

Fresh Start Effect: How to Use it Gain Momentum in the New Year

Making a "fresh start" isn't just a figure of speech; it's a psychological concept. It refers to the uplifting impact of specific calendar dates representing a new beginning. 

We perceive particular days with opportune times to metaphorically hit life's reset button, revisit our goals, or create new ones. However, life resets are not always successful or favorable. 

These eight steps will help you make the most out of the Fresh Start Effect and avoid potential pitfalls.