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LilyList aims to be a ”handbook for the living.” Providing resources that help people tell their stories and understand their legacies. Life can be a scary place, and end-of-life even scarier, but fear has no place here.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
Welcome to episode 29 of the lilylist podcast! Today, we're joined by the insightful and dynamic Mary Wessling. In this engaging conversation, Mary takes us on a journey through her life, from her upbringing in a large Irish Catholic family in Cleveland to her impactful work in journalism and social advocacy. Get ready to hear about her early experiences shaping her empathetic and outspoken nature, the pivotal moments that defined her career and personal life, and her ongoing passion for connecting with people and making a difference.
Here are some highlights from this episode:
* Early Life and Family Dynamics: Mary discusses being the fifth of six children and how that influenced her, leading to a sense of independence and a tendency to challenge norms, even when it caused friction with her mother. She also shares the profound impact of her Irish Catholic grandmother.
* Discovering Her Voice and Path to Journalism: A key realization during her first week at Marquette University was the freedom to express her opinions without negative repercussions, a stark contrast to her earlier schooling. This, along with early encouragement from her father for her writing, guided her towards a career in journalism.
* Career Beginnings and a Notable Scoop: Mary recounts her early journalism career, including a memorable moment while working for the Catholic News Service where she broke the story of John Wayne's deathbed conversion to Catholicism, beating national news services.
* Balancing Work, Family, and Evolving Faith: Mary shares her experiences as a working mother, including bringing her son to work at the Catholic newspaper, and how she managed a freelance writing career while raising her children. She also candidly discusses her evolving relationship with the Catholic Church, culminating in her decision to leave due to the handling of the priest scandal.
* Lifelong Commitment to Social Impact and Human Connection: The episode highlights Mary's continuous involvement in social causes, from helping resettle Afghan refugees to visiting detained immigrants. She emphasizes the importance of meeting and understanding people from all walks of life and her belief in the power of kindness and patience.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Welcome to another episode of the LilyList Podcast. In episode 28, we have the pleasure of hosting Rhonda Parker Taylor, a multifaceted individual with a wealth of experiences and insights to share. Rhonda takes us on a journey through her life, from a small-town childhood filled with unique community connections to navigating personal and professional challenges.
We'll delve into her early experiences, the pivotal moments that shaped her, and the wisdom she's gained along the way. It’s an inspiring conversation about empowerment, the need for human connection, and finding your own path to success.
To learn more about Rhonda and her work ...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhondaparkertaylor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhondaparkertaylor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RhondaParkerTa1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhondaparkertaylor/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rhondaparkertaylor
https://www.tiktok.com/@authorrhondaparkertaylor
RhondaP (@authorrhondaparkertaylor) | TikTok
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@RhondaParkerTaylor
Website: https://www.rhondaparkertaylor.com
Purchase:
Barnes and Noble: https://bit.ly/bncrossroads
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3lYXRsh
Here are highlights that you can look forward to in this episode:
1. Rhonda's vivid description of her childhood in a small town and the significance of the community dinner bell.
2. Her insights on navigating social connections and the importance of empathy.
3. The discussion about overcoming academic challenges and the role of mentors and resources.
4. Rhonda's reflections on personal and life failures, and finding strength through helping others.
5. Her journey into entrepreneurship and the lessons learned about building a team and trusting oneself.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Saturday Mar 15, 2025
Saturday Mar 15, 2025
Welcome to Episode 27 of the LilyList Podcast! Today, we have the incredible Heather Prall joining us - a talented artist whose work speaks to the balance of structure and chaos, much like her life journey. From an early adoption story to a structured upbringing, from a corporate career in HR to taking a leap into a creative life, Heather's path is anything but conventional.
In this episode, Heather shares the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her artistic passion, the deep personal challenges she and her family have faced, and the bold decisions that redefined her life—including selling everything to travel in an RV. We also discuss the importance of legacy, how she’s guiding her daughter toward a life of creativity and independence, and the lessons learned from breaking free of societal expectations.
Get ready for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of creativity in shaping our lives.
To learn more about Heather and her work:
Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this episode:
1. Adoption and Identity – Heather shares her journey of being adopted as a baby, reconnecting with her birth mother, and navigating questions of nature vs. nurture.
2. Corporate Burnout & Reinvention – After years in HR, Heather realized it wasn’t the path for her. She walked away from a structured corporate career to pursue her passion for art.
3. The Power of Unstructured Living – Twice, Heather and her family sold everything to travel in an RV, embracing a freer way of life while rethinking what success looks like.
4. Art as a Reflection of Life – Her artwork mirrors the contrast between structure and fluidity, much like her personal journey from rigid systems to creative freedom.
5. Legacy & Life Lessons for Her Daughter – Heather is raising her daughter with the belief that success isn’t about conformity—it’s about following passion and embracing life’s possibilities.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Welcome to Episode 26 of the LilyList Podcast, where our goal is to be a handbook for the living. In this episode of the LilyList Podcast, we talk with Martin Hensel, an entrepreneur and advisor to LilyList, whose journey spans decades of innovation in digital publishing and technology. From his early days growing up in rural Washington to his experiences in politics, startups, and leadership, Martin shares candid insights about the realities of entrepreneurship, business cycles, and personal growth. We explore his experiences founding and running Texterity, the digital publishing company that helped shape the transition from print to digital, and what he’s learned about navigating the ups and downs of building a business.
Beyond business, Martin reflects on legacy, family, and the long-term impact of our work and choices. Whether you’re a founder, innovator, or just someone interested in the intersection of technology and storytelling, this conversation offers hard-earned wisdom, practical insights, and a refreshingly honest take on the entrepreneurial journey.
This episode is packed with deep reflections on success, failure, and what truly matters beyond business. Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Martin Hensel.
Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this episode:
1. From Rural Roots to Harvard Business School - How Martin’s small-town upbringing shaped his worldview and led him to unexpected opportunities.
2. Entrepreneurship and Business Lessons - Key takeaways from founding and leading Texterity and other ventures, including navigating investment, scaling, and exit strategies.
3. The Evolution of Digital Publishing - Martin’s perspective on the transformation of content, from print to digital, and how he missed the rise of the web.
4. Balancing Professional and Personal Priorities - How Martin shifted focus later in life to prioritize family, grandchildren, and personal fulfillment.
5. Thoughts on Legacy - Why he prefers looking forward rather than documenting the past, and what he believes truly matters for future generations.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Welcome to Episode 25 of the LilyList Podcast, where our goal is to be a handbook for the living. This week, we sit down with Tiffany Speax, a storyteller, creator, and resilient spirit who has worn many hats—filmmaker, educator, mother, and community leader. Tiffany shares an honest and compelling journey through her childhood in North Carolina, her career in TV and film production, the challenges of balancing creative ambitions with family life, and ultimately, finding herself again.
This conversation is filled with raw insights, hard-earned wisdom, and an inspiring perspective on self-discovery and legacy. If you’ve ever struggled with identity, expectations, or the weight of responsibility, this episode is for you.
Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this episode:
1. From Small-Town Roots to Big Dreams – Growing up in Kenston and Greensboro, and how her childhood shaped her drive and independence.
2. Navigating Career, Creativity & Family – How she found her passion for film and TV production, while managing the expectations of marriage and motherhood.
3. Breaking Free from Expectations – The realization that trying to "do it all" can lead to burnout and learning to prioritize herself.
4. The Power of Legacy – Teaching her children the importance of integrity, financial literacy, and community impact.
5. What Comes Next? – Looking ahead to life beyond caregiving, embracing new challenges, and rediscovering who she is beyond the roles she has played.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
This week, we’re thrilled to sit down with Laura Jane Vincent, an accomplished musician, songwriter, and creative force, to dive into the stories that shaped her artistry and the unique journey she's undertaken in the music world. From her early days in rural North Carolina to launching her own record label and mentoring other artists, Laura Jane shares heartfelt insights into the power of music, community, and legacy.
In this episode, we explore how Laura Jane’s upbringing shaped her artistic expression, the lessons she’s learned from touring and managing a music career, and her commitment to fostering a supportive creative ecosystem for musicians. Whether you’re an artist, a fan, or simply someone who appreciates the impact of storytelling, this conversation offers inspiration, laughter, and so much wisdom.
To learn more about Laura Jane and her work:
https://www.instagram.com/laurajvincent/?hl=en
https://streetplaceentertainment.com/
https://youtube.com/@laurajvincent?si=87GxT3VSyXUPts0d
Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this episode:
1. Roots in Rural North Carolina: Laura Jane reflects on her childhood in Hoke County, a place that nurtured her creativity and set the stage for her love of music.
2. Journey into Music: Hear about her first guitar at age 13, early open mic nights, and the influences that shaped her passion for songwriting and performance.
3. Lessons from Touring: Laura Jane discusses the highs and lows of independent touring, from building confidence on stage to learning the importance of connecting with fans.
4. Building a Legacy: Discover how Laura Jane started her record label, Streetplace Records, and why she’s passionate about supporting and uplifting fellow musicians.
5. Reflections on Community: She shares her belief in the importance of collaboration, fostering a vibrant music scene, and how her vision for the future ties into her sense of legacy.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Saturday Jan 04, 2025
Saturday Jan 04, 2025
We're thrilled to be joined by JV Hilliard, a best-selling author known for his epic and dark fantasy novels, including The Warminster Saga. From his early inspirations shaped by family and Dungeons & Dragons to navigating the complexities of the publishing world, JV shares his creative journey, insights on storytelling, and thoughts on leaving a lasting legacy. Whether you’re a fantasy enthusiast, a writer, or simply someone fascinated by the art of moving from government to creative endeavors, this episode has something for you.
To learn more about JV and his work:
http://www.jvhilliard.com/
Twitter: @jvhilliardbooks
Insta: @JVHilliardbooks
FB: J. V. Hilliard
TikTok: @JVHilliardbooks
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/jvhilliardcom
Here are some highlights that you can look forward to from today’s episode:
1. The Origins of a Storyteller: JV Hilliard reflects on growing up in a close-knit, blue-collar family in Pittsburgh, where his uncle, a quadriplegic Marine and writer, inspired his love for storytelling and fantasy.
2. The Influence of Dungeons & Dragons: Discover how decades of gameplay and serving as a Dungeon Master shaped JV’s narrative skills and became the foundation for his novels.
3. From Politics to Fantasy: JV shares his transition from a high-pressure career in defense lobbying to becoming a full-time fantasy author during the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Navigating the Publishing World: Learn about JV’s unconventional path to publication, the role of developmental editors, and the challenges of creating a multi-book series.
5. Building a Legacy Through Creativity: JV opens up about his aspirations for his work to endure beyond his lifetime, emphasizing the immortal nature of storytelling.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com
Saturday Dec 28, 2024
Saturday Dec 28, 2024
Welcome to the 2024 end of year wrap-up of the LilyList Podcast. Our goal is still to be a handbook for the living, but in this episode, we let NotebookLM take the lead on recapping the journey thus far. We are thankful for each and every guest and listener who shared their story, supported our work, and helped us understand what is important, why stories and legacies are important, and how we can better serve our audience going forward.
We are excited to announce the LilyList concierge and self-guided experiences will be launching in the first quarter of 2025. You can visit our website at lilylist.com to learn more about them. Our sincere hope is that creating simple but powerful tools will help foster a movement where each of us can capture our own valuable stories and leave behind a legacy that connects with people we will never meet.
The podcast, of course, will continue on. Our first guest interview in 2025 will be with writer and entrepreneur JV Hilliard. We’re very much looking forward to sharing that conversation with all of you.
As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.
If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.
If you would like to support LilyList:
Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist
Buy Lily a coffee - https://buymeacoffee.com/mediaxz
PayPal - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=M8W4BRLCYFYVJ
Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com