You're overthinking your art | Monika Filipek, Artist & Gallerist

I met Monika while walking the streets of Oxford on a trip in 2024. I was immediately enchanted by Monika, her art, and her story. I'm thrilled to bring her wisdom on artmaking, sustainability, and creativity to the show.

In this episode of Be Alive with Kate Manser, Kate interviews Monika Filipek, an artist known for her unique upcycled cart gallery discovered in Oxford, UK. Monika shares her journey from Poland to the UK, detailing her passion for sustainable living, upcycling, and creating art from found objects. She discusses her artistic process, the importance of intuition, and the impact of embracing creative freedom.

In this episode:

🫠How to overcome self-criticism

👁️ On following one's creative intuition

🗑️ Finding beauty in trash, sustainability, & everyday life

00:00 Introduction to Art Creation

00:59 Meet Monika Filipek

02:00 The Journey of the Cart Gallery

02:56 Sustainable Living and Upcycling

03:48 The Magic of Oxford

04:39 Creative Intuition and Process

20:04 Advice for Aspiring Artists

26:37 Embracing Artistic Possibilities

27:06 Dealing with Criticism and Haters

27:50 The Collective Project of Art

29:54 Observations on Humanity

36:11 The Decision to Move to the UK

43:33 The Influence of English Art and Culture

48:08 Conclusion and Future Plans

About Monika Filipek, artist & founder of CArt Gallery

I am a Polish artist living and working in the UK, with a focus on ecophilosophy and sustainability. Over the last six years, I have been connected to Oxford and London, where I’ve developed my creative practice, experimenting with sustainable art movements and initiatives rooted in the circular economy and sustainable development. As the founder of The CArt Gallery—a mobile art space—and active participant in other initiatives supporting sustainability, I actively engage in creating innovative projects that bridge art, ecology, and social movement.

Connect with Monika:

monikafilipek.com

cartmobileartgallery.com

Instagram

Monika's answer to, "What does it mean to you to be alive?" To be alive means to me to create my own vision of reality, where even small steps and actions have a powerful impact on the rest of the world and can make a big change. I believe that we are all connected somehow, and only through our unique skills and individuality we can make a change. By sharing our unique gifts and ideas with the world we can grow all together as a society. I believe that even small actions and initiatives have the potential to change the world. For me, being alive is to be aware of your mission and what your skills are and follow this path without fear, even if it seems to be uncomfortable. By choosing trust over fear, risk over conformism, and, by seeing the results of this, you can really feel alive:)

Connect with Kate Manser:

Instagram

katemanser⁠

Be immersed in living an alive life. Get Kate’s weekly text: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thanks for being alive with me ⚡️

ICU Nurse: What I Learned about Dying | Megan Titcomb

What are the lessons about living and dying that stick with an ICU nurse for life? Megan Titcomb shares the challenges of navigating the survival-focused medical system, the importance of listening to one's intuition about when it’s time to "call it," and her own journey transitioning career paths. The episode highlights the beauty and courage in facing mortality honestly and using that awareness as a catalyst to experience life fully.

⚕️Why navigating the healthcare system requires understanding about its survival-driven mindset.

❤️‍🩹What to do to prepare for unexpected illness or death (for you and the people you love)

🌻How an ICU Nurse lives after being around illness & death for years

👉Key points

(01:10) Introducing Megan Titcomb: A Journey from ICU Nurse to Life Coach

(03:03) The Realities of Nursing and Burnout

(04:41) Transitioning to Coaching: Finding New Purpose

(05:44) Defining Holistic Nursing

(07:44) Experiences in the ICU During COVID

(09:16) The Importance of Accepting Mortality

(12:35) Navigating the Medical System and End-of-Life Decisions

(22:43) Living in Alignment: Coaching for a Fulfilled Life

(30:25) Introduction to Dr. Irvin Yalom's Work

(31:36) Transition to Physical Wellness Coaching

(34:18) Personal Growth Through RV Renovation

(35:15) Facing Fears and Building Confidence

(40:55) The Nomadic Community Experience

(43:59) Reflections on Alternative Lifestyles

(49:10) Future Plans and Affirmations

(54:55) Closing Remarks and Gratitude

⚡️Megan’s answer to: What does living your most alive life mean to you?

It means living a life that is in line with my values and not a life of fear or hiding my true self. It means embracing the fact that one day I will die and I want to be prepared for that in both the logistical ways ("having affairs in order") and emotional and spiritual ways.

I've had many experiences with death throughout my life, each shaping my beliefs around it. A few particularly profound moments during my time working in the hospital have stood out, offering me great comfort and deepening my understanding.

About Megan Titcomb

Megan is a Registered Nurse, Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Yoga teacher, and Certified Critical Care nurse. For years, I've straddled the divide between conventional medicine and holistic healing. Unfortunately, these worlds often operate independently. My passion is bridging that gap. I'm dedicated to helping others navigate the complex world of Western medicine while uncovering their own inner compass, allowing them to make informed life (and end-of-life) choices. Thus empowering them to live a more purposeful life that honors them and their uniqueness.

🌐Follow Megan Instagram

LinkedIN

Connect with Kate Manser:

Instagram

katemanser⁠

Be immersed in living an alive life. Get Kate’s weekly text: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thanks for being alive with me ⚡️

Radical Accountability & Energy Alignment with Laura Morrice

Laura Morris is a speaker and coach from Scotland who teaches chakra healing and radical accountability. I am a huge proponent of coaches and healers who blend energetic practices with tangible mindset work. Laura’s work blends chakra & energetic alignment with healing for body and mind. She teaches her clients to align their energy centers AND intentionally work on thought patterns and conditioning.

In this episode, Laura begins with her story of going from being a heroin addict at 16 years old...to the awakening that led her to spiritual centering and radical accountability. Listen to this episode (and follow Laura lauramorrice_thechakracoach ) to cut the BS and align your body, mind, and soul.

👉Key points

(01:21) Meet Laura Morrice: A Force of Nature

(04:37) Laura's Early Life and Struggles

(11:02) The Turning Point: Discovering 'The Secret'

(13:27) Embracing Energy Healing and Chakras

(31:43) Living in Alignment: Mind, Body, and Spirit

(34:46) The Inner Voices: Navigating Daily Decisions

(35:29) Choosing Love Over Negativity

(38:01) Radical Responsibility and The Secret

(39:34) Aligning with Love and Higher Self

(44:17) Understanding Chakras and Emotional Healing

(47:10) Leadership and Divine Feminine Power

(57:17) Embracing Radical Responsibility and Personal Power

(59:41) Daily Practices for a Joyful Life

(01:03:09) Working with Laura Morris

(01:06:37) Conclusion and Future Plans

About Laura Morrice

Laura Morrice is not just an energy healer and mindset coach – she's a catalyst for transformation, a beacon of light guiding you towards alignment with your truest self and your highest potential. With over two decades of experience in her arsenal, Laura has honed her craft to perfection, specializing in removing the blockages that hinder your path to greatness.

Certified in an array of modalities including Reiki, Crystal Healing, EFT/TFT Tapping, Meditation, and Life Coaching, Laura seamlessly weaves together science-backed techniques with ancient wisdom to deliver profound results. Her approach is holistic, her methods are grounded, and her impact is undeniable.

Through her guidance, clients embark on a journey of self-discovery, shedding limiting beliefs, and stepping into their authentic power. Laura's mission is clear: to empower women leaders, visionaries and entrapreneurs to lead from their true essence, making a profound impact in every facet of their lives and the world at large.

Laura’s book: Signposts to Source

Get it in the US

Get it in the UK

What does living your most alive life mean to you? For me, it's about doing everything from a place of energetic alignment. Everything is energy and everything has it's optimal vibrational frequency. I am passionate about living a life that is aligned with my highest purpose and potential.

I envision a future where the children of tomorrow don't have to go through the same amount of trauma healing as we have, so that they can experience and begin to grow from a place of optimal alignment. I believe my work (and other healers’ work) to create aligned conscious leaders now will help to create the bright new future for all.

Alignment = authority and we must all become the authors of our own life!

🌐Follow Laura IG

Facebook

Website

Connect with your host, Kate Manser

Instagram

katemanser

Be immersed in living an alive life. Get Kate’s weekly text: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thanks for being alive with me ⚡️

My Wife Died 6 Months Ago - What I Know So Far | Danny LesslieMy Wife Died 6 Months Ago - What I Know So Far | Danny Lesslie →

This episode is a message from the edge of everything from Danny Lesslie, a girl dad of 2 whose wife died just 6 months ago. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who will go through a profound challenge in life -- so, it's for all of us.

📌Preorder Danny & Rafaella's book, Thank you, Cancer

This episode will speak into your heart and help you:

🫶 Reawaken to the preciousness of the time with the people you love

🌊 Get a true look into what raw grief feels like and how to move through it

💔 Hear about what Danny is doing to take his broken heart and turn it into love and art

👉Key points

(00:41) Reading Danny's Profound Instagram Post

(04:36) Interview kicks off: Welcoming Danny Lesslie

(05:25) Coping with Loss and Sharing the Journey

(07:39) The Nature of Grief

(11:11) Finding Balance Amidst Grief

(26:53) The Role of Resilience

(36:41) Exploring Grief and Individual Journeys

(37:39) Practical Exercises for Coping: Weighted vest, memory wall & more

(38:08) Memories and Honoring Loved Ones

(41:05) Challenges of Moving and New Beginnings

(42:30) Navigating Relationships and Avoiding Complacency

(44:39) The Power of Writing a Death Letter

(54:48) Finding Purpose Amidst Pain

(01:00:03) Faith and Miracles in Difficult Times

(01:06:53) Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

More About Danny Danny Lesslie is a Widower, Girldad, and Coach. He and his girls live in Texas.

Follow Danny on Instagram: @momentumwithdanny

What does living your most alive life mean to you? I think about swimming in the moments. After my wife passed I can't imagine moving through life without purpose. I lived the majority of my life pretty numb, in my marriage I found a depth of joy and love I had never known. In that feeling, I find that I feel alive. God lights my path.

-Danny

👉Connect with your host Kate Manser: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850 Get free weekly heart messages when you need them most & 1:1 replies from Kate

Kate on Instagram

Kate’s website

Thank you for being alive with me ⚡️

The Art of Seeing: Marfa Models CEO Arianna Alexis

👉What does it mean to see the world like an artist? This episode will inspire you to think differently, see opportunity where you thought there was none, and take risks in your art and your life. Arianna Alexis is a fashion designer, CEO of Marfa Models, and has a working art gallery in her laundry room. The message of this episode featuring this interesting human? Creativity is in you. Do the thing...and be who you are.

In this episode, you'll hear:

🧺 How Arianna created an art gallery in her laundry room

🦵 Learn about pushing the edges of figure drawing to include all body types

👁️ How to see life with a creative, curious artist's eye

👉Key points

(00:00) Intro to the Show

(01:01) Meet Ariana Alexis: Artist and Founder

(01:25) The Birth of Galerie Ego

(02:06) The Unique Concept of Galerie Ego

(04:32) Experiencing Galerie Ego

(07:09) The Vision Behind Galerie Ego

(19:17) Ariana's Journey in Fashion and Art

(24:14) The Evolution of Mind Lines and Marfa Models

(28:51) The Importance of Presence and Creativity

(32:21) Generational Perspectives

(33:25) Challenging the Status Quo

(36:15) The Power of Art

(45:55) Flow State and Meditation

(53:20) Final Thoughts and Inspirations

More About Arianna Alexis

Arianna Alexis is a visual artist and filmmaker known for her multidisciplinary and performative work that exhibits and reflects the duality of the body as a model and mechanical being. Encouraging the alienation of self, her work hones to body image, idealization, self discipline and representation of labor within fashion. She received her MFA, at Parsons Paris where she resided for 5 years. Relocating to Marfa, TX she continues her artistic practice, where she has founded Marfa Models & galerie ego

What does it mean to Arianna to feel alive? Being in tune with your true self and being honest with yourself which effects the path and purpose of living in alignment of authenticity, which to me equals to being most alive!

🌐Check out Arianna on the web: marfamodels and galerieego

Arianna's Instagram: @ariannaalexis   / ariannaalexis  

Connect with Kate Manser On Instagram: thealivekate⁠

Visit Kate’s website⁠

Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me ~

Former model Stephanie Douple: My journey out of addiction & into self-love

⚡️I hope you love this one! Stephanie Douple has a fascinating story of being plucked off the streets of Vegas to become a model, then falling into addiction, and is now many years into a journey as a gifted therapist. She's funny, she's real, she's a beautiful soul.

👉Key points

(00:34) Meet Stephanie Douple

(02:29) How a guy named Breakfast in Vegas launched my modeling career

(05:20) Struggles with Addiction and Self-Worth

(15:22) The Path to Sobriety and Self-Discovery

(25:20) Understanding Harm Reduction and Sobriety

(33:09) Embracing Energy Work and Therapy

(36:03) Detaching from Results in Therapy

(37:23) Understanding EMDR and Trauma Integration

(38:25) Grounding Techniques for Therapists

(41:06) Overcoming Negative Thoughts

(42:45) Embracing Unique Life Paths

(44:41) Generational and Personal Healing

(01:00:20) Navigating Social Media and Mental Health

(01:08:14) Exploring Addiction and Dissociation

(01:14:25) Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Topics: how a guy named Breakfast in Vegas launched my modeling career, going from addiction to sobriety, disabilities, body dysmorphia, becoming a therapist, how to step into your higher timeline every night, and what it's like being a therapist for Gen Alpha clients.

About Stephanie Douple

Stephanie is the founder of Embrace Mind Health, which supports individuals with substance misuse and mental health challenges. Stephanie believes that a path that leads to saving yourself is aligned with supportive people who have been where you are, have walked the path before you, and are willing to sit knee-to-knee with you and support you while you find the answers within you. Stephanie lives near Austin, TX and enjoys sunshine, good food, and being silly.

This week’s show features a candid conversation in which we explore Stephanie’s journey through addiction, self-worth, and sobriety. Stephanie shares her background as a performing arts instructor and model, describing how external validation through beauty and success masked deep struggles with body dysmorphia, addiction, and self-acceptance.

She reflects on her experience growing up with physical differences and a chaotic family environment, which shaped her self-image and challenges. Stephanie emphasizes the difficulty of recalibrating self-worth away from external achievements toward intrinsic value, a process she describes as ongoing and requiring constant self-observation and compassion.

The episode also touches on the normalization of drug use in certain social circles and how Stephanie’s spiritual awakening and sobriety began in her thirties, leading her to a path of healing and self-love.

In this episode, you'll hear:

🦋 Self-worth must be recalibrated from external validation to intrinsic value, which is a lifelong and evolving process.

🦵 Body dysmorphia and negative self-talk can be managed by observing and naming the critical inner voice, allowing space for self-compassion.

🍷 Addiction often masks deeper emotional and spiritual pain; sobriety can be a path to rediscovering light, love, and joy in life.

🚧 Healing from trauma and addiction requires patience and acceptance that setbacks and struggles are part of the journey.

🎂 Spiritual awakening and self-love can emerge later in life, showing it’s never too late to transform one’s relationship with oneself.

What does living your most alive life mean to you? "Living my most alive life means that I am able to operate within the frequency of flow, being willing to forget everything I think I know so that I can have a new experience." --Stephanie Douple

🌐Follow Stephanie Douple Website

IG   / reels  

LinkedIN   / stephaniedouple  

👉Connect with Kate Manser ⁠thealivekate⁠

Visit Kate’s website

Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me ⚡️

Alexandra Keller: Bridging Earthly & Divine Experiences

What is it like to transition from skepticism to spiritual awakening? Alexandra shares her experience going from skeptic to "woo woo" energy healer, and how she is still working to balance the spiritual with earthly experience and even science.

In this episode, you'll hear:

🦋 The importance of self-love, integrating the ego, and living a meaningful life

🌱 Her transformative experiences doing a 400-hour mentorship with Shipibo Shamans

🌉 Her commitment to balancing the mystical with the practical, aiming to be a bridge between spirituality and everyday life

Alexandra is also a classmate of mine at Alef Trust as we work on attaining our Master of Science in Transpersonal Psychology, Consciousness, and Spirituality!

Alexandra's answer to "When you think about living your most alive life - what does that mean to you?" I've dealt with a lot of hardship, trauma, and abuse but I never lost my faith in a better life. When I was 18 I got a tattoo that said "inspire a beautiful life" because I was determined to make my life more beautiful and help others see that they could build a more beautiful life, too. Ten years later when I felt I had finally moved from victim to creator consciousness, I got a tattoo that says "I create my reality" to always remind me that my outer world is a reflection of my inner world. Now my journey is focused on truly embodying unconditional love. It's a constant work in progress!

Special offer for Be Alive with Kate Manser listeners:

$150 off reiki training $50 off reiki healing email hello@healeralexandra.co to claim, using code KATE

About Alexandra Keller

Alexandra is on a mission to raise the vibration of our collective consciousness. As an Energy Healer and Spiritual Advisor, she uses psychedelic medicine and integration, mindfulness practices, and Reiki to help heal the mind, body, and soul. Alexandra has worked with hundreds of clients in group and individual settings. She is double Reiki Master certified by the International Center for Reiki Training. Her other training includes a 400-hour mentorship with Shipibo Shamans, Fluence Introduction to Ketamine, Heart Coherence Healing, and Psychic and Medium Development. She is obtaining her Master of Science in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Transpersonal Psychology, and has a B.A. in journalism. In addition to her professional work, Alexandra is passionate about increasing access to holistic wellness and supporting BIPOC and marginalized communities. She believes that by healing ourselves and raising consciousness, we improve the well-being of the planet and all its inhabitants.

👉Key points

(00:00) Introduction and Personal Journey

(00:58) Grounding Exercise

(04:10) Daily Spiritual Practices and Intuition

(07:08) Values and Routine in Spiritual Practice

(12:48) Journey of Self-Love and Healing

(16:53) Energy Shift and Impact of Self-Love

(23:25) Living a Life of Joy and Play

(26:35) Discovering Meditation and Spirituality

(28:08) Embracing the Path of a Healer

(30:55) Ayahuasca Journey in Peru

(35:26) Balancing Woo and Science

(38:16) From Skeptic to Believer

(40:29) Creating Your Reality

(46:40) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🌐Follow Alexandra Website

IG   / healeralexandra  

👉To connect with Kate Manser on Instagram: thealivekate⁠

Visit Kate’s website

Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me

Death to Luxury Brands: The Impact of Brand Labels on Self-Worth

The Impact of Brand Labels on Self-Worth

This is a brief but potent exploration into aliveness, fulfillment, and the pitfalls of relying on external signals of self-worth. I assert that luxury labels are usually used as tools to prop up hollow self-worth while making others feel a sense of lack.

True aliveness & fulfillment come from an examined life. Let this powerful episode propel you to question the role of labels/brands, wealth signaling, and true value in your life.

What will matter to you when you're on your deathbed?

In this episode:

💠 Kate discusses the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic self-worth

👜 The effects of wearing ostentatious labels for yourself and others

🙋🏼‍♀️ A guide to questioning your use of brand labels

⚡️ How to lean on your inner light to convey your worth and wealth

00:00 Introduction to Aliveness

01:10 The Role of Labels in Our Lives

03:13 The Impact of Labels on Self-Worth

18:38 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Self-Worth

25:46 A Call to Examine Your Life

27:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

👉Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram: ⁠  / thealivekat.  .

Visit Kate’s website

Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me!

Building a Business with HEART | Interview with Gina Schaefer

At a time when it seems like everyone with money, power, and success is using it for evil instead of good, founder and CEO Gina Schaefer is an example of how to do it right.

In this episode, you'll hear: 🪚 How and WHY Gina is transferring ownership of her business to her employees 🛠️ Why Gina started hiring drug addicts and felons 🧰 How to be a powerful mentor 🗜️ What it means to lead with love and purpose

About Gina Gina

Schaefer is the founder and former CEO of 13 hardware stores in Washington, DC, and Baltimore, MD, and Virginia. As a member of the Ace Hardware Cooperative, Gina employs more than 300 people and has begun a transfer of ownership through an ESOP to her teammates. Her big passion lies in developing urban markets, supporting small businesses, and helping women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields. She serves on the corporate board of CCA Global Partners and is the Chair of the non-profit board of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance. Learn more about Gina Schaefer at recoveryhardware.com and acehardwaredc.com

Gina's answer to "When you think about living your most alive life - what does that mean to you?" "I lead by cheerocracy - my glass is always overflowing and I am MOST happy when I can talk about others - brag about another business or its team, build confidence in a teammate or lend my voice to a cause. Life is too short to not SHOUT!"

📌Learn more about Gina Schaefer at recoveryhardware.com and acehardwaredc.com

🌐Follow Gina:

LinkedIn   / ginaschaefer-speaker  

IG:   / ginaschaeferdc  

👉Key points

(00:00) Introduction: Embrace Your Potential

(00:53) Meet Gina Schaefer: A Humble Leader

(02:57) Gina's Journey: From Software to Hardware

(05:27) Lessons from Non-Traditional Teachers

(09:18) Creating Meaning in Everyday Work

(15:32) The Power of Trust and Openness

(25:19) Building a Legacy: Impact and Fulfillment

(35:09) Conclusion: Ripples of Positivity

Your Host, Kate Manser:

👉Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram: thealivekate⁠

Visit Kate’s website ⁠⁠

Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me

My dog had a stroke! How to prepare for losing a pet or loved one

2 weeks ago, my dog, Pajamas, had an early morning stroke while she slept. This experience reminded me of the power of pre-grieving those we love. 'Pre-grieving,' also known to others as anticipatory grief, is the process of meditating on or visualizing the death of someone you care about before they die. WHY would we want to grieve before we absolutely have to?

Pre-grieving will help you: ❤️‍🩹 Cope with unexpected emotions in advance 😱 Reduce the shock of mortality 💪 Help you be the best guardian and guide for your dying pet or loved one, 🎁 And most of all -- cherish the present moment you have with them while they're totally ALIVE.

In this episode, hear the story of Pajamas' stroke and get a quick download on the power of Pre-Grieving.

00:00 Introduction & My new favorite afternoon pick-me-up tea 01:18 A Scary Morning with Pajamas 04:40 Understanding Pre-Grieving: How to prepare for the death / loss of a pet or loved one 07:10 Benefits of Pre-Grieving 09:10 Personal Reflections on Pre-Grieving 11:38 Embracing Mortality and Grief 20:16 Practical Tips for Pre-Grieving 23:58 Conclusion and Gratitude

Video cuts out around 7:30 - stuff happens :)

Get Kate’s free weekly texts to help you live more alive: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

instagram: thealivekate⁠ Thank you for being alive with me!

To Hell with Societal Expectations with Marcia Drut-Davis

Meet Marcia Drut-Davis—an icon in the childfree movement and a woman who has been boldly challenging traditional expectations for over 50 years. She made national headlines when she publicly declared she never wanted children on 60 Minutes in the 1970s.

If you've ever struggled to stand up for what you believe in, or wonder what happens to your life in the long run after you do...this episode is for you.

Marcia Drut-Davis is a groundbreaking advocate of the child-free lifestyle. In 1974, Marcia "accidentally" appeared on 60 Minutes and stood up for her controversial perspective...and it changed her life forever. Today, she is an inspiring figurehead not only for a child-free lifestyle, but for courageously owning your story -- even when people disagree with you.

Learn about the importance of making life choices that align with your values, breaking free from societal expectations, and living a legacy of joy and authenticity. Don't miss Marcia's captivating stories and actionable advice on living a vibrant and regret-free life!

🌻 Marcia's story of how she "accidentally" ended up on 60 Minutes 🌻 How that interview changed the course of her life 🌻 What it's like to be a pioneer and figurehead for a controversial viewpoint 🌻 How to release expectations and live a vibrant, meaningful life 🌻 The importance of making informed decisions in your life

Follow Marcia on Instagram:   / childfree_guru  

00:00 Introduction to the Bold Life of Marcia 00:20 Marcia's Bold Claim on 60 Minutes 02:17 Discovering the Child-Free Lifestyle 03:11 The National Organization for Non-Parents 04:31 Facing Family and Societal Expectations 05:53 The Fallout from 60 Minutes 08:05 Life After the Bold Choice 11:06 Navigating Personal and Societal Pressures 13:55 Reflecting on Parenting and Societal Norms 25:59 Acknowledging a Pioneer's Impact 28:04 Legacy and the Meaning of Life 30:47 The Importance of Friendships 31:36 Top Five Regrets of the Dying 32:56 Living a Vibrant and Meaningful Life 34:48 Releasing Expectations and Embracing Diversity 36:57 Encouraging Children to Think Freely 42:27 Cultural Conditioning and Gender Roles 45:18 Honoring Parents and Personal Choices 48:44 Final Thoughts and Resources

👉Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram: ⁠  / thealivekat.  . Visit Kate’s website⁠ Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850 Thank you for being alive with me!

How to be More Compassionate with Shelby Forsythia →

**You will feel calmer and kinder after listening to this episode.** 👉Shelby is one of those people you meet who just exudes compassion but will push you to move in the direction you’re meant to go. This makes her a truly gifted grief coach.

In this episode: 🚑 Shelby’s story of the time she had a grand mal seizure ALONE in her apartment and how her life was saved

🩵 How to be more compassionate in your everyday life & tips to help you build your own “compassion muscle”

💝 How grief can be perceived as part of the sweetness of life

👓 Shelby explains what “grief glasses” are

💔 How to talk to people who are grieving

🥪 The weird story of visiting the spot Shelby laid mom's ashes & what it has to do with the best sandwich ever

🪴 How to be a good friend by skipping the effort & doing totally boring normal things together & so much more

...And so much more

Sorry if I come off a little fan-girly on this one…I am, in fact, a fangirl of this woman. I can be intense and have rough edges that are totally “me...” AND Shelby is an example of the love and authenticity I hope to be and share in my life. Both of these can be true, and this goes for all of our “conflicting” personality traits and hopes.

📌Life After Loss Academy: Start moving forward with peace, purpose, and even joy.

🌐Follow Shelby

@shelbyforsythia on IG

👉Key points

(00:00) Starting the Day with Gratitude

(00:45) Introducing Shelby

(01:49) Shelby's Journey and Expertise

(03:49) Life After Loss Academy

(07:17) The Concept of Growing Through Grief

(08:30) Personal Reflections and Metaphors

(09:38) Empowering Through Grief

(12:36) Integrating Grief into Life

(14:11) The Impact of Grief on Life Choices

(26:48) The Preciousness of Life and Voice

(40:13) Exploring Compassion and Boundaries

(40:39) The Impact of Grief on Compassion

(40:57) Recognizing and Responding to Suffering

(42:09) Personal Stories of Compassion

(44:24) The Gift of Space Holding

(46:01) The Universality of Grief

(48:15) Near-Death Experience and Its Impact: My grand mal seizure

(51:53) Life After a Near-Death Experience

(01:04:32) Romanticizing the Mundane

(01:16:38) Celebrating Life and Being Present

(01:18:14) Closing Remarks and Gratitude

👉Shelby Forsythia BIO

Shelby Forsynthia

Shelby Forsythia (she/her) is a grief coach, author, and podcast host. In 2020, she founded Life After Loss Academy, an online course and community that has helped dozens of grievers grow and find their way after death, divorce, diagnosis, and other major life transitions. Following her mother’s death in 2013, Shelby began calling herself a “student of grief” and now devotes her days to reading, writing, and speaking about loss. Through a combination of mindfulness tools and intuitive, open-ended questions, she guides her clients to welcome grief as a teacher and create meaningful lives that honor and include the heartbreaks they’ve faced. Her work has been featured in Huffington Post, Bustle, and The Oprah Magazine.

👉Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram⁠
Visit Kate’s website ⁠
Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me

Stories from Publishing My Book feat. Stephen King & Susanna Kaysen →

Stories from publishing my 1st book In the end stages of publishing a book, all authors and publishers must do quote approvals. This means you have to get direct, written permission to use any quotes in your manuscript. It ended up being a really fun + interesting part of publishing my book! It resulted in me getting thoughtful emails from Stephen King, Susanna Kaysen (author of Girl, Interrupted), Carsie Blanton, among others. This process and the emails I got contained messages I think you''ll find INSPIRING & thought-provoking.

In this episode I share the stories about how all this went down & the wise words shared by King & Kaysen that could change the way you look at creating art or showing up in your life today.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:46 The Book Publishing Journey

01:35 The Impact of COVID-19 on the Book Launch

03:49 Lessons Learned from the Pandemic

06:20 Securing Quotes for the Book

08:24 The Story Behind 'Girl, Interrupted' Quote

11:03 The Importance of Authenticity

13:12 The Influence of Susanna Kaysen

18:14 The Carsi Blanton Story

21:29 Reflections on the Book's Success

23:15 Conclusion and Call to Action

Follow me on IG check out my website Sign up to get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thanks for being alive with me ⚡️

Adversity is a Sneaky Bitch with Lisa Keefauver →

📌Check out the book ‘Grief is a Sneaky Bitch’

Don't get it twisted - Lisa is a GRIEF ACTIVIST...but she's also an Adversity Champion. I told her she's right up there with Elizabeth Taylor...if you know the Steel Magnolias quote, ya know. Assault, becoming a widow at 40, cancer, and more...Lisa did not come to this life on the easy train. I am thrilled to have Lisa on the show to talk about adversity, humor, feeling alive, and her new book, Grief is a Sneaky Bitch. Get yourself a copy, pop on this interview, and take in the energy of someone who has been THROUGH IT but has figured out how to survive and thrive.

As a survivor of multiple traumas, Lisa's reflections provide a compassionate and empowering perspective on navigating life's challenges and embracing aliveness. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and metabolizing suffering, building resilience, and allowing oneself to receive help, which is something that can be healing not just for the person receiving the support, but also the person that is able to give it.

🌐Follow Lisa Instagram, Website

YouTube    / @lisakeefauvermsw  

👉Key points
(00:00) Welcome and Introduction

(01:42) Lisa Keefauver's Journey with Grief

(02:20) Celebrating Life's Milestones

(04:00) Facing Trauma and Finding Meaning

(06:50) The Concept of AFGO

(09:07) Navigating the Dark Night of the Soul

(20:40) The Role of Suffering in Life

(29:38) Finding Aliveness Amidst Grief

(32:38) A Year of Challenges and Diagnosis

(34:37) The Importance of Accepting Help

(35:43) The Power of Vulnerability and Connection

(37:39) Reflections on Aliveness and Mindfulness

(39:39) The Journey of Writing and Sharing

(46:24) The Courage to Be Provocative

(49:19) Embracing Full Humanity in Grief Activism

(57:47) The Process of Self-Expression and Growth

(01:01:42) Celebrating Life and Community

(01:03:54) Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

👉Lisa Keefauver BIO

Lisa Keefauver

Lisa Keefauver is a grief activist. Her wisdom on the topic of grief and loss are rooted in the decades she spent as a social worker, narrative therapist, non-profit co-founder, and clinical supervisor. Her insights on grief are also embodied from personal losses, including the death of her husband when she was 40 years old. Lisa is host of the top-rated podcast, Grief is a Sneaky Bitch; adjunct professor of Loss and Grief at the University of Texas at Austin; facilitates grief-smart organizations; and a keynote speaker.

👉To connect with Kate Manser on Instagram Visit Kate’s website⁠ Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me!

Is VR a Key to Human Connection? feat. Gregory Roufa of Numadelic Labs →

In this episode, join me as I demo aNUma ClearLight, an immersive VR program designed to foster profound interconnection experiences. Yes, you read that right: VR as a tool for human connection.

If you’re into non-ordinary states of consciousness, peak experiences, and how technology can be something other than brain rot that might take over humanity…this one’s for you.

Following my reflections from experiencing the VR demo myself, watch my fascinating interview with the CEO of aNUma and Numadelic, Gregory Roufa. Gregory and I delve into the significance of communal experiences, the ethical use of technology, and how mortality awareness can enrich our lives. Rufa also shares his journey from a tech career to creating spiritually enriching VR experiences, emphasizing the ripple effect of positive human connections.

ABOUT VR AS A PEAK EXPERIENCE TOOL

00:00 Drug-Free Peak Experiences

01:55 Exploring Virtual Reality for Consciousness

02:28 Demoing Anuma Clear Light

03:00 Personal Mortality Awareness Journey

03:57 The Power of VR in Facing Mortality

04:37 Engaging with Mortality for a Fuller Life

05:05 Experiencing the aNUma ClearLight Demo

05:29 Challenges and Benefits of Psychedelics

06:00 Overview of Today's Journey

REFLECTIONS AFTER MY VR DEMO

07:02 Post-Demo Reflections

07:56 The Most Powerful Moment of the Demo

INTERVIEW WITH GREGORY ROUFA, CEO of aNUma and Co-Founder of Numadelic Labs

10:48 Gregory's Insights on VR and Consciousness

14:08 ClearLight Program and Mortality

18:31 Expanding VR Applications

18:43 The Role of Technology in Human Connection

21:38 Future of VR in Healthcare and Beyond

28:27 Ethical Use of Technology

31:45 Personal Choices for Digital Well-being

32:48 Diagnosing Technology's Impact

34:23 The Importance of Attention

35:42 Navigating Digital Consumption

37:41 The Role of Long-form Content

44:13 A Personal Journey to Mindfulness

47:15 Facing Ecological and Spiritual Realities

55:33 The Power of Mortality Awareness

01:00:35 Connecting Through Numadelic Labs

01:02:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Who is Gregory Roufa? Mr. Gregory Roufa is a Co-Founder and serves as Chief Executive Officer at Anuma and is a founding member of the Numadelic Labs Collective.

Gregory devotes his time to being the best father and local community member he can be, as well as work dedicated to wise use of technology to help humans appreciate the preciousness, joy and beauty of all life.

An entrepreneur and executive with a deep product background, Mr. Roufa started his first VR company in 1995 driven by a vision of embodied experiences of deep inter-connection.

‪@GregoryRoufa‬ LinkedIn

Greg's response to: When you think about living your most alive life - what does that mean to you?

“Joyful experiences of the mundane. Balancing peak experiences with the janitorial aspects of life. Playing with edges.” —Gregory Roufa
Learn more about Numadelic Labs

Learn more about Anuma

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS CHANNEL!

Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram Visit Kate’s website Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me!

Gregory Roufa

RV Life, Entrepreneur, & Your Big Dreams →

Hi! I'm Kate Manser, The Inspirer. I have been living in my 1992 RV for the past 3 years but this year, I've picked my favorite weird town to stay in for awhile. Here's how it's going, how I make money as an entrepreneur, & where to get the best, cheapest white boards. ;)

Most importantly, I share my 5-year plan of big dreams to inspire you to take yours even more seriously.

Be Alive with Kate Manser: Life Update & Big Dreams

Pretend we’re having coffee together and put this ep on while you’re doing dishes or putting your makeup on.

Especially as a single person who lives alone and doesn’t own a TV, I love putting on long-form podcast content in the background for some company. :)

In this episode of Be Alive, I’m sharing a life update peppered with good humor & useful tips and perspectives like:

🔑What is object permanence & do you have a deficiency?

🔑Where to get the cheapest, biggest whiteboards

🔑1 thing they don’t tell you about RV life

🔑What, exactly, does Kate do again?

🔑The importance of thinking about your life as a process of creation AND destruction

🔑My biggest dreams for the next 5 years

00:00 Introduction and Life Update

00:38 My New Office & Where to Get the Best, Cheapest White Boards

01:42 What Does Kate Do?

03:56 Change my Mind: Discomfort = Aliveness

04:51 1 Thing They Don’t Tell You about RV Life

06:11 Flavors of ADD & Productivity

08:14 Humility of Living in Marfa, Texas

17:58 Coaching and Personal Growth

24:35 Future Plans and Big Dreams

32:53 Conclusion: What’s YOUR big dream?

Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram Visit Kate’s website Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me!

Liz Cortez: Shamanism & Animal Medicine →

👉Liz Cortez will help you open your aperture to see life paths you may have never considered. You may not have become a shaman on your life bingo card...but neither did Liz. Watch this episode to learn how to soften into what the Universe is whispering to you, even when it sounds insane. Your life path might be in that message.

Liz, a shamanistic practitioner and yoga instructor, shares about her transformative journey and unique approach to blending Peruvian shamanism with yoga.

She shares her experiences of overcoming personal struggles, studying shamanism in Costa Rica, and eventually opening her studio, Heart and Soul Yoga, in Rancho Mirage, California.

Throughout the discussion, Liz leads a grounding exercise, talks about the significance of animal energies in her practice, and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, imagination, and following one's bliss.

Both Liz and Kate reflect on their personal challenges and the profound impact of connecting with spirituality and nature. The episode underscores themes of learning, presence, and the courage to live authentically.

👉ABOUT Liz Cortez

Liz Cortez is a yoga teacher, sound healer, Reiki practitioner, holistic health coach, and Peruvian Shaman. Her journey began as a personal quest for healing from childhood trauma, divorce, and reproductive health challenges, leading her to study Peruvian Shamanism, where she received her rites as a Pompamesayoq and later advanced to an Alto Mesayoq Shaman. Committed to sharing her knowledge and healing practices, she is the founder of Heart and Sol Yoga Studio in Rancho Mirage, CA, where she offers transformative experiences to her community.

🌐Follow Liz: Instagram Website

📌Make sure to check out Heart & Sol Yoga

👉Key points

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Meet Liz Cortez: Shaman and Yoga Instructor

01:45 Grounding Exercise with Liz

03:58 Kate's Personal Journey

05:08 Liz's Dark Night of the Soul

07:17 Guiding Clients Through Suffering

12:09 Embracing Imagination and Animal Spirits

20:21 The Meaning of Life and Continuous Learning

24:49 Exploring New Paths: From Yoga to Sound Healing

25:45 Embracing Shamanic Practices

27:25 Breaking Free from the Golden Cage

30:07 Celebrating One Year of the Studio

31:52 The Birth of Shamanic Yoga

35:32 Animal Energies and Their Meanings

40:27 Lessons from Squirrels

43:03 Living with Purpose and Joy

45:27 Connecting with Liz and Her Studio

47:10 Gratitude and Community

Connect with Kate Manser on Instagram Visit Kate’s website⁠ Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me!

Liz Cortez

If you’re addicted to anything, watch this. →

If you or someone you love is addicted to something, watch this video. It contains a perspective on getting high that is rarely discussed, a tactic to break your addictions, and 2 concrete ways to help someone you love who is struggling with addiction.

The book I mentioned is called The Natural Mind by Andrew Weil. I came across it writing a paper for my transpersonal psychology Masters program I’m currently in…which is the study of states of being and consciousness beyond the material self. I could talk about this for hours! Let’s continue the conversation in the comments.

Do you believe the desire to get high is innate in humans? Why? (or why not)

Thank you for watching Be Alive with Kate Manser. Share this episode with a friend who might also want to work on their vices, too. It’s so human of us!

Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok Check out my offerings on my website

Thanks for being alive with me. xo

Allyson Roberts: "I am the child of an affair with a minister." →

📌Check out Allyson's book: The Spiritual Journey: The Part No One Talks About

👉If you've ever wondered how, often, the people with the hardest lives end up being the most wise and how you might use their perspective on your own life challenges...don't miss this episode.

Allyson's life started in adversity from Day 1: as the product of an affair between her mother and her church minister. Then, homelessness, child abuse...and yet, Allyson has transmuted this trauma into healing for herself and others.

How? Find out by listening to Allyson's truly moving story on Be Alive with Kate Manser.

Alison shares her incredible life journey from overcoming childhood abuse and homelessness to becoming a best-selling author. We touch on themes of loneliness, the significance of meditation, and emotional healing. Alison also shares a personal, transformative story about learning the truth of her parentage late in life and offers wisdom on how to handle life's challenges with grace and humor. This episode is a testament to the power of love, vulnerability, and personal growth.

Follow Allyson on social: Allyson's website: Tiktok and Instagram

👉Key points

(00:00) Introduction and Warm Welcome

(00:34) Synchronicity and Spiritual Connections

(01:48) Alison's Journey and Overcoming Adversity

(03:13) Finding What Makes You Feel Alive

(04:42) Meditation and Self-Love

(05:38) Dealing with Loneliness and Depression

(08:26) Discovering Family Secrets

(10:43) Building Resilience and Finding Community

(15:56) The Power of Humor and Laughter

(25:11) Balancing Expectations and Resilience

(29:58) The Realization of Never Knowing It All

(32:07) Unlocking the Heart: A Journey of Self-Discovery

(33:12) The Power of Inner Child Work

(37:54) Embracing Self-Love and Setting Boundaries

(43:42) The Inspiration Behind the Latest Book

(48:53) Everyday Moments of Profound Aliveness

(53:24) Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

👉Allyson Roberts BIO

Allyson Roberts

Allyson Roberts knows what it takes to make it in this world. After surviving homelessness and childhood abuse, she still left her heart open enough to allow herself to heal. Through Allyson’s journey of both spirituality and science, she came to deeply understand that our paths are our responsibility and she helps others understand this, too. Her work has been recognized all over the globe and you can read how her journey began in her best selling book, The Spiritual Journey: The Part No One Talks About.

👉To connect with Kate Manser on Instagram Visit Kate’s website⁠ Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me

Angela Gentile: Here to Hype You Up →

📌FREE Gift for listeners of Be Alive with Kate Manser: A quick, easy and FREE downloadable guide to help you prioritize yourself and confidently make major decisions.

👉You need Angela Gentile in your life. She will call you on your shit, push your buttons, and hype you up to be your highest, most radically expressed self. If you need to get reenergized and inspired to be YOU...push play on this episode and send it to a friend who has big dreams for 2025.

In this episode of Be Alive, Angela shares her personal experiences with burnout, grief, and the journey to living authentically. The conversation explores the societal pressures on achievement, the impact of loss, and the importance of self-awareness and intuition.

Angela introduces her work in somatic coaching and fitness, emphasizing the need to listen to and honor one’s true self. The episode concludes with a powerful pep talk, encouraging listeners to take control of their lives and live boldly.

Follow Angela on social: TikTok and Instagram

👉Key points

(00:00) Introduction to Angela Gentile

(01:40) Astrology and Personal Insights

(05:31) Balancing Achievement and Self-Worth

(08:33) Confronting Burnout and Personal Growth

(14:58) Embracing Authenticity and Mortality Awareness

(26:39) Connecting Childhood Conditioning to Adulthood

(28:53) The Journey of Self-Discovery

(30:34) Understanding and Embracing Discomfort

(32:49) The Power of Neuroplasticity and Intuition

(40:55) Angela's Unique Approach to Coaching

(44:53) Empowering Authenticity and Individuality

(49:23) Final Thoughts and Pep Talk

(50:16) Closing Remarks and Community Engagement

👉Angela Gentile BIO

Angela Gentile

Angela Gentile is a speaker, educator, entrepreneur and child-free Millennial who is living a life outside of the box and status quo. After her dad died suddenly, she realized she wasn't living a life she loved and was SO UNHAPPY. She had to let go of generational trauma, inherited limiting beliefs and her deep millennial deference that was leading her to burnout and anxiety. So, she quit her toxic teaching job, launched a successful fitness business and now helps millennials shed their own limiting status quo and live a life they love through powerful storytelling on her global podcast, The Empowered Millennials.

👉To connect with Kate Manser on Instagram⁠ Visit Kate’s website⁠ Get Kate’s free textspirations: Text ALIVE to 512-898-7850

Thank you for being alive with me