Maura Sweeney: Living Happy Inside Out | Self-Improvement | Leadership | The Power of Happiness

In this special holiday podcast, I ask the central question: Are You Peace on Earth?

We live in an externalized society where everyone seeks peace but fails to find it. We fight, we strive and we even go to war, chasing that ever-elusive desire for "Peace on Earth."

However, true peace begins in our hearts.

Listen in to my podcast that breaks down the meaning of peace and invites you to experience it for yourself. Be sure to stay tuned till the end of this podcast. You'll want to meet a host of listeners and friends who share their holiday wishes with you!  

#PeaceOnEarth #Holidays #Happiness #NewYear

Direct download: 110_Peace_on_Earth.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:27pm EDT

It’s easy to get caught up in stereotypes, those widely held but preconceived notions we use to categorize people or ideas into fixed boxes.

Stereotypes provide us with easy ways to identify each other and communicate in general terms, but they also contain a downside. When improperly applied, they cause us to limit our understanding of others and run the risk of having others limit their understanding of us.

We often find ourselves assimilating into one group, culture, ideology, religion or philosophy. We enjoy being part of a clan or associated with like-minded or familiar groups. However, without opening ourselves to inquiry and generous reflection, we can sometimes wrongly assume that one member of a group is exactly like another.

In this podcast, I share two ways in which I experienced the use of stereotypes in my own life. May they help you explore your own thoughts, attitudes and belief systems. Doing so may cause you to open the doors of light of your own identity plus revisit notions you’ve held concerning other people’s identities.

Then, listen in to Bryan Rivera from the Bronx, NY share what makes him happy from the inside out, too.  

#Stereotyping #Labeling #PoliticalCorrectness #Happiness #EmotionalIntelligence #Culture

Direct download: 109_Are_You_a_Stereotype.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 11:53am EDT

If you’ve ever felt disenchanted, disillusioned or even critical of experts and authorities, consider looking to yourself as a new source.

In a busy world, we often surrender our talents and ideas to others. We take a passive approach to the greater world, viewing it like observers watching an on-stage performance rather than actively playing a role of our own.

Listen as I share two seminal personalities from the past and how they helped inspire me to play a role in our current culture and marketplace of ideas. Then, I invite you to use your own imagination. Ignite some of your latent talents and untapped abilities to “be who you really want to be” in the world.

Afterward, listen in to music maker Vicky Fulop share what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#SelfDevelopment #Leadership #SelfGovernance #Authenticity #Happiness #Maura4u

Direct download: 108_Who_Do_You_Want_To_Be.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

We all look forward to receiving gifts that excite our senses and surprise us in positive ways. But what happens when the “gift” we encounter has nothing to do with our perceptions of good?

In this podcast, we explore how life’s curve balls can actually bring us some unexpected gifts in the form of personal benefits. In it, I share a story from several years ago that turned a good portion of my life, thoughts, spirituality and even sense of self on its head. During the process, I was forced to face certain personal issues and hidden fears that needed some introspection.

As painful and grievous as the process felt, I gained greatly and emerged far freer, stronger and happier.

Whether you’re facing separation, sickness, economic loss or something else that stings you today, tune in to this inspiring and hopeful podcast.

Don't forget to share this podcast with a friend who may be in need!

Also, check out my additional resources on this topic:

My Huffington Post blog: The Flip Side of Giving Thanks

My Maura4u YouTube video: Do You Know What a Gem You Are

Then, listen in to Nick from Manchester, U.K. who shares with us what makes him happy from the inside out, too!  

 

#Thanksgiving #Gratefulness #Spirituality #Attitude #EmotionalIntelligence #Happiness #Peace

Direct download: 107_Thanks_for_Gifts_in_Disguise.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

The contrast between polarity and peace came into sharp focus recently with the 2016 U.S. Presidential election process and the division and strife that followed.

In this timely, yet evergreen, episode, we take a look at the distinctions between what it feels like to live in polarity and what it’s like to abide in peace.

Discover how peace is not the opposite of someone else’s position. Instead, it paves a third path for anyone seeking inner happiness. Choosing to live in peace provides us opportunity to think, envision and operate in ways that promote new outcomes and increase our sense of personal agency.

Learn more about living in peace here.

Then, find out what makes a street drummer on NYC’s High Line happy from the inside out, too.

 

#PresidentialElection #Trump #Hillary #Peace #Inspiration #Empowerment #Hope

Direct download: 106_Polarity_Or_Peace.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 6:07pm EDT

When it comes to living happy from the inside out, inspiration plays a major role in the process.

In this podcast, we’ll explore several meanings for the word that help provide familiarity with the emotions, energies and atmospheres that accompany inspiration.

Next, I share two personal stories that demonstrate how inspiration (or the lack of it) plays a part in our human experience. As I talk about both a private discourse and a public event, you’ll learn how individuals felt, responded and reacted as a result of feeling more -- or less – inspired.

Be empowered in your own life as you grow more mindful and cognizant of the power of inspiration. Not only will you find it a means to greater happiness, but you’ll see how it opens the door to so much more in the realm of positive possibilities.

Then, listen to Alex Okoroji from Nigeria as she shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 #Inspiration #Happiness #Peacefulness #Empowerment #Mindfulness #Empowerment #Maura4u

Direct download: 105_Living_With_Inspiration.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 2:42pm EDT

When defining yourself as generous- or not - do you restrict the meaning of the word to giving others big presents or large sums of money?

The concept of generosity carries far greater meaning, one that starts with the heart. In fact, when distilled down to its earlier roots, generosity actually points to the “great soul” within us, one that finds varied ways to express itself liberally in the world.

In this podcast, learn some of the finer attributes that constitute generosity. Discover also how we can see ourselves in grander and more gracious fashion, even when others around us are having trouble viewing themselves well.

Expect to connect with peace, happiness and a greater measure of well being.

Then, listen in as Diane Kutz shares with us what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#Happiness #Spirituality #SelfDevelopment #Gratitude #Generosity #Peace

Direct download: 104_Are_You_Generous.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 7:59pm EDT

Most of us absorb and assimilate into cultures that surround us, but did you know you have a role to play in creating culture, too?

We don’t often think about the word, but it provides a powerful topic for anyone wishing to influence positive shift or desiring a more satisfying life experience.

In this podcast, we’ll explore some of the definitions of culture. I’ll also share two of my personal stories about how I’ve been a recipient of positive culture and how I had to become a creator of one as well.

Prepare to be inspired, empowered and uplifted as you imagine ways you can create culture in your world.

Then, listen in to University of South Florida student Sebastian Blumberg share what makes him happy from the inside out, too.

Direct download: 103_Creating_Your_Culture.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 2:02pm EDT

In an externalized world, we often seek life everywhere but at its source: our essence!

Discover some of the intriguing and powerful definitions for this little referenced word. Learn how it addresses and points to some of the intrinsic and desirable properties of who we truly are. If you’ve been looking to increase your sense of happiness and connect with your true life, tune in to this latest podcast which is all about your “be-ing” rather than your do-ing.

Then, listen to Guy Djoken, director of the UNESCO Center for Peace, share what makes him happy from the inside out, too.

 

 

Direct download: 102_Following_The_Essence_of_Your_Life.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:23pm EDT

If you’ve ever baked cookies with a cookie cutter, you’ll know exactly where this message is heading.

In this light hearted podcast, I talk about the well-intentioned but sometimes limited paths we occupy because of our upbringing and “cookie cutter” social training. As a result, many of us leave extra cookie dough on the kitchen’s cutting room table. We’ve forgotten to cook up our life with self-expressed flavorings, spices and flair.

Listen as I share a bit about zumba instructor Debbie Rivas who grew out of her own cookie cutter upbringing. Drawing upon an early but unfulfilled desire to become a teacher, she continues to grow and express her life in new and fun ways toward that end. Doing so, she’s become her own kind of cookie – a happy one.

Then, listen to author Brenda Martin share what makes her happy from the inside out, too!

Direct download: 101_Be_Your_Own_Cookie.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 2:54pm EDT

 

Why does money carry such an overwhelming importance in our lives and our decision-making processes?

A recent conversation I had with a retired U.S. general provided inspiration for this ever-present and seemingly overwhelming question.

We’ve all fallen prey to the powerful idea that claims we need money in order to live. The all-too-familiar familiar notion shows up in ways ranging from the subtle and familiar to the highly coarse and cavernous.

In this podcast, I take up several examples of how our higher decisions yield and become compromised when weighed against the collective belief in the sovereignty and allure of money. I also consider what life might be like if we’d scale back our interest and deference to its lofty position and imagine living in more sincere and authentic ways.

If you’ve blamed others around you for compromising themselves to money or have condemned yourself for doing the same, tune in to this uplifting podcast. Regardless of past or current circumstances, there’s always room for new, brighter and happier perspectives to be gained.

Then, listen in to author and small space celebrity Felice Cohen who shares with us what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 #Money #Mammon #Idolatry #Empowerment #Authenticity #Happiness 

 

Direct download: 100_What_If_You_Didnt_Need_Money_.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

We’ve all experienced some bad examples in life.

Bad examples show up as parents, teachers, bosses and other supposedly superior personalities. Their effects often remain with us, even long after those relationships have passed!

In this podcast, I share two bad examples I had in my life and how the difficulties I experienced were ultimately used for good. We’ll look into why some people we’ve expected better from flounder in their own frailties. We’ll also consider how to become beneficiaries of what we’ve learned from others’ errors.

If you have struggled with bad examples in life or ever felt like a victim, this is an empowering and thought-provoking podcast. Expect it to help you move forward in life as you change your perceptions, create new intentions and make a choice for inner happiness on the subject.

Then, listen in to Frederic Bye from Montreal, Canada as he shares what makes him happy from the inside out, too.

 

#Leadership #Empowerment #Influence #Happiness #EmotionalIntelligence

Direct download: 099_Can_You_Learn_From_Bad_Examples_.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Whether you realize it or not, there is a beauty that is waiting to be discovered in you.

We often reduce our ideas about beauty into narrow categories that restrict our awareness and experience of beauty. But there are definitions to beauty that far exceed our imagination and beg for disclosure in and through your life.

Join me in this podcast as we take a look at fuller definitions of beauty and consider how limiting our traditional senses are to perceive it. You’ll come away with an increased consciousness and expectation of what’s yet to be manifested about true and lasting beauty.

Inspiration, empowerment and self-help for anyone seeking to better their own life experience and the experience of others around them.

Then, listen to coach and fellow podcaster Jody Flynn as she shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#Beauty #Inspiration #Empowerment #Happiness

Direct download: 098_Have_You_Discovered_The_Beauty_Of_You__2.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Are you choosing when to speak and when to be silent, too?

In this podcast, we explore the old adage “Silence is golden” that dates back to the early Egyptians. Using a bit of observation with life scenarios common to us all, we’ll discover new ways to inject peace into our own lives and into the lives of others as well.

Enjoy this inspiring self-empowerment episode that reminds you of your own power to positively influence the world around you.

Then, listen in as Helena from Bosnia & Herzegovina shares with us what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#Inspiration #Empowerment #Happiness #Spirituality

Direct download: 097_Is_Your_Silence_Golden.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

In a world where we can get caught up in the heaviness of a 24/7 news cycle that draw us into anger, defensiveness and aggression, we can benefit by choosing to invest our energies in other pursuits. In this podcast, we’ll explore how you can become a focal point of energy and a force to create positive experiences that uplift both you and the world around you, too.

Personal empowerment for a happier and more peaceful life. 

Then, listen in as Christy James, a professor at Liberty University, shares with us what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#SelfHelp #Inspiration #WellBeing #Happiness #Influence

Direct download: 096_What_Are_You_Giving_Your_Power_To.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

Have you ever found yourself asking the question, “Can I do this?”

When it comes to slaying dragons and setting ourselves to task for some big life expectations, we can be extremely daunted by our own doubts and abilities.

In this podcast, we’ll learn how – and where – to find the source to do what you’re hoping to do in life. A fresh look at a Bible scripture will provide inspiration and self-help for anyone who has big things planned in their heart and in their future.

Then, listen as Leanne Penna from the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, Greece shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

 #Bible #Inspiration #Goals #Power #Leadership

Direct download: 095_Can_I_DoThis.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

How do you speak your truth?

When we think about speaking our truth, we imagine ourselves boisterously declaring our point of view or fighting aloud either for or against an idea or an agenda.

However, speaking our truth can also occur in nonverbal ways. At times, we can “speak” without saying a word. In this podcast, explore how we can convey our truth to others simply by our presence. Be inspired to tap into your own truth and extend it in powerful ways to the world around you.

Then, listen as Jorge Montero from Costa Rica share with us what makes him happy from the inside out, too.

#SelfDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #Happiness #Spirituality

Direct download: 094_Speaking_Your_Truth_3.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:59pm EDT

Today’s special podcast is a return to my back story and why it helps me relate to you. Our life details all vary, but this unifying story helps me relate to any person who has been living beneath outer expectations and wants to move into their inner hopes for personal expression. Pressures in life may daunt us, but they also help us move forward into new possibilities. They also empower us to discover our own sense of agency. Listen in and make some of your own connections toward living happy from the inside out.

Then, meet Miranda Reshaw from Atlanta, Georgia and learn what makes her happy from the inside out, too.  

 

 

 #Happiness #Peace #EmotionalIntelligence #Authenticity #Spirituality #Mindfulness

Direct download: 093_I_Am_You_Too.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

Do you know what you really want in life? If not, this podcast will help you become more emotionally aware of what you truly desire and facilitate your focus and behaviors toward those ends.

Using results from my own Happiness Survey of individuals from 28 states and 23 countries, I share five key areas that define what most of us truly want in life. Find out what these unifying elements are that define our common pursuit of happiness. Use the list as personal inspiration or create a list of your own as you pursue your path to happiness in life.

Then, meet Dawna Harrison from Chicago, Illinois and learn what makes her happy from the inside out, too.  

#EmotionalIntelligence

Direct download: 092_World_Happiness_Survey.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 9:41am EDT

Are your inner beliefs in accord with your outward behaviors? If not, this podcast is for you!

First, we’ll take up the various definitions of the word belief and explore how our inner self recognizes and resonates with our true belief systems. I’ll discuss some of the ways we ignore, suppress or resist expressing those beliefs as well as the feelings of stress this fracturing process engenders. As always, you’ll hear some of my personal anecdotes navigating along the path to personal harmony. Be inspired and empowered to express your truest and happiest self as you listen along.

 Then, listen to Jodi Flynn from Portland, Maine share what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 #SelfHelp #Happiness #EmotionalIntelligence #Belief #Spirituality

Direct download: 091_Living_Out_of_Your_Belief.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

Are you defending a dogma, a point of view or “-ism” that has become insufficient, obsolete or even discredited? If you have been struggling with an outmoded belief system established by an external authority that is no longer speaking truth to you, it may be time to step into the light.

 

This is a self-help episode to help you find harmony, integration and greater peace from within. Listen and let go of what you no longer can uphold as reality while increasing your happiness and emotional intelligence. Allow what truly resonates within you to help reshape your world view.

 

Then, listen in to Savannah Kutz from St. Petersburg, Florida as she shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

#EmotionalIntelligence #Happiness #WellBeing #Maura4u #SelfHelp #Peace

Direct download: 090_Defending_Your_Dogma.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:32pm EDT

I'm not referring to your official job title, but to an identity that best describes the essence and fullness of who you truly are.

Most of us are accustomed to carrying limited ways of identifying ourselves, staying carefully and rigidly within the lines of social and professional constructs. Yet each of us carries attributes that make us uniquely rich in character, talents and more. As we begin to think of ourselves in outside-the-box ways, we set ourselves free to shine in full bloom and inspire others to bring out their own true colors, too.

If you are seeking a richer and more authentic life, this is a great listen for you to further manifest some of your inner dreams and aspirations.

Then, listen in to Heather Ann Havenwood from Austin, Texas share the development of her unique title role as Chief Sexy Boss.

 

Direct download: 089_What_is_Your_Title.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 9:15am EDT

You may be unfamiliar with the term vaunter, but you’ve definitely met a few!

If you’ve ever been turned off by braggarts whose presence fills the air with an inflated ego, you’ll find today’s podcast to be of interest. More than exploring the role of the vaunter, this podcast examines what happens to any of us when our position in life causes our pride to puff up in unattractive – and exclusionary - ways.

Excellent food for thought and an opportunity to practice some emotional intelligence. When your profile begins to rise, you’ll keep your own vaunting in check and continue to embrace and value those around you.

Then, listen to professional organizer Alison Kero who shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.  

 

 

 #SelfHelp, #EQ #Influence #Leadership #Peace

Direct download: 088_Are_You_a_Vaunter.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 10:26am EDT

 

You don’t need to hold the title of school teacher to realize that your life is teaching others about you – and life – all the time! This podcast takes a look at the disconnections that often show up between our words and professions versus our hidden motives and actual behaviors. If you appreciate the familiar expression “actions speak louder than words,” you’ll want to listen in and find out whether what you’re teaching others is something you want to truly convey!

Then, listen to Leann Penna share with us from the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, Greece about what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

Direct download: 087_What_Are_You_Teaching.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 2:18pm EDT

Are you creating a party or still living in polarity? What are the differences between these two atmospheres and how do they affect you and others around you?

We can live in environments that are supportive, inclusive and uplifting or we can default back to the land of conflicts, opposites and opposing forces.

One environment brings us peace and joy while the other keeps us in a continual state of fear, unease and instability. Learn more and discover how you can create your own happiness – from the inside out.

Then, listen to Anthony Witt from The Champion Entrepreneur talk about what makes him happy from the inside out, too.

Direct download: 086_Party_Or_Polarity.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 10:18am EDT

With one of the most central questions you can ever ask yourself, this podcast explores the social and emotional constructs that keep us from living our true self.

Discover what they are and what hurdles you might have to overcome in order to live out your fullest, happiest and most authentic self. Allow this podcast to inspire you to greater levels of influence and leadership in your life.

Then, listen to author and leadership expert Dr. William Anton talk about what makes him happy from the inside out, too.  

Direct download: 085_Are_You_Being_You.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 4:25pm EDT

Here’s a look at separating our ideas, desires and intentions from those placed upon us.

Have you taken time to discover how frequent messages, close relationships and familiar atmospheres may have clouded you?

You may be assuming that you authored your own ideas when, in fact, someone else gave them to you!

This podcast provides you with self-awareness and self-empowerment to help you separate your own ideas from those conveyed to you by others!

Then, listen to Lila Zizoula from the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, Greece, as she shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

Direct download: 084_Did_You_Buy_That.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 7:51pm EDT

Are you the embodiment of the Declaration of Independence?

The official document announcing a free and independent people would eventually form the foundation of the U.S. Constitution. Find out what the Declaration of Independence has to do with happiness – and how you can apply that document’s intent to your personal life today. This podcast contains empowering content with a governmental angle.

Then, listen to mentor and coach Kristie Kennedy as she shares what makes her happy from the inside out, too.

 

Direct download: 083_Declaration_of_Independence.mp3
Category:Self-Help -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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