I recently had the incredible opportunity to be featured on the Vitally You podcast with Dana Frost, a wellness expert, life coach, and energy medicine practitioner. As many of you know, Dana's podcast is a treasure trove of insights on how to feel younger while growing older, touching on health, culture, spirituality, and personal growth. It was an honor to join her in a conversation that resonated deeply with the mission of the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast and my journey as a multimedia journalist.
A Connection Rooted in Shared Experiences
Dana and I go way back, having first met through a female entrepreneurs networking group in Chicago. Our paths crossed during a time when we were both balancing the demands of raising large families and managing our entrepreneurial ventures. Dana has always been a source of inspiration for me, with her unwavering commitment to personal growth and her ability to juggle various roles with grace.
During our conversation, Dana highlighted the multifaceted nature of women's lives and how we adapt to different seasons and responsibilities. This theme is central to the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast, where we celebrate women's resilience, strength, and ability to thrive amidst challenges.
Embracing Change and Growth
During our conversation, a particularly memorable moment occurred when Dana commended me for finishing my master's degree at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and for becoming an adjunct lecturer. This accomplishment symbolized more than just a career milestone; it highlighted the importance of perseverance and flexibility.
Like many women, my journey has been marked by balancing personal and professional aspirations. The story of my return to school, delayed by caring for my mother, is a reminder of the sacrifices many women make and the resilience we muster to pursue our dreams. As Dana noted, this capacity to shape-shift through life's various stages is a hallmark of our strength.
The Power of Storytelling
Throughout the podcast, we touched upon the transformative power of storytelling. As a photographer and journalist, my mission has always been to capture and elevate the unique stories of women. The 52 Phenomenal Women Project, which I undertook before and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, is a prime example of this. Profiling a woman a week for two years, this project highlighted the diverse experiences and inspiring qualities of women from different walks of life.
By showing interest in my work and recognizing the impact of these stories, Dana emphasized the significance of our role as storytellers. Our discussion highlighted the deep connections we can create through shared narratives and the motivation we can gain from one another's experiences.
Moving Forward with Hope and Enthusiasm
As I prepare to teach at Medill, I am filled with excitement and hope for the future. This new chapter in my career is not just a professional advancement but a continuation of my lifelong passion for learning and teaching. I am eager to inspire the next generation of journalists and to share the lessons I've learned along the way.
Dana’s podcast is a beautiful reminder that feeling younger while growing older is about embracing our journeys with curiosity and enthusiasm. It's about recognizing our capacity for growth and adaptation, no matter where we are in life.
Join the Conversation
I invite you to listen to my episode on Vitally You with Dana Frost and to reflect on your own journeys. Let’s celebrate the remarkable women in our lives and continue to support each other in our endeavors. Thank you, Dana, for having me on your show and for being a beacon of positivity and inspiration.
I’m also thrilled to announce that Dana will be a guest on the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast in Season 3! Stay tuned for an insightful and inspiring conversation.
You can find the Vitally You podcast on all major platforms. Be sure to check out the show notes for links to my work and join us in this conversation about wellness, resilience, and the beauty of the female experience.
Amy Boyle Multimedia Journalist, Photographer, and Podcast Host