Episode 39: Renaissance Woman with Michelle Oram

Posted on by Wynne Leon

In this episode of the Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcast where we bring you talented creatives who inspire you to reach your next level of personal growth, I’m with my co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and blogger, and musician Michelle Oram.

Finding out how people came to blogging is so fascinating. So we dig into what brought Michelle to blogging four years ago. But more interesting than that – is why people stay. Michelle tells us how her mission of sustainability has evolved over time.

Michelle’s professional life focuses on retirement so it’s fitting that the book that she plans on writing when she retires is on that topic. But she tells us that it’s not usual topics of identity and purpose that she plans on tackling but instead on the systems of retirement and how to navigate them.

We know it’ll be a great book and that she will do it. Because anyone that reads Michelle’s blog knows she has a great track record of working towards goals. She manifests accountability on her blog and monthly round-up. In this episode, she tells us how that works for her. And then we dig into her current focus – her 60 before 60 goals. Guess what? Podcasting is one of them so Vicki and I find out if being on our podcast counts.

Music is another theme that is interwoven into Michelle’s life. She tells us the story about how she came to sing for a band that performs regularly and the fun and zest that brings into her life.

Determined. Driven. Interesting. Fun. Michelle shows us how those four traits come together with creativity to build a full life.

This is a great episode featuring a writer that we know and love. It’s so much fun to see what goes into this Renaissance Woman.   We know you’ll love it!

Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative. Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug's writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author's journey.TakeawaysDoug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references.The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father.The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena.Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events.The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug.Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story.The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth.Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness.Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels.The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging.Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast so you may have already listened to it.Links for this episode:How to Share1970’s Chicago transcriptTake Me Back to Chicago by Doug E. Jones on Eckhartz PressQ&A with Take Me Back to Chicago author Doug E. JonesFrom the Hosts:Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/Wynne's book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com
  1. Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones
  2. Episode 129: Wish I Was Here with Ilsa Rey
  3. Episode 128: This is Your Body on Trauma with Meg Bowman
  4. Episode 127: King Copper with Lauren Scott
  5. Episode 126: Cherry Whip with Michael Antman

Search (and subscribe!) for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Apple, Amazon, Spotify or Pocket Casts OR Listen on Anchor Episode 39: Renaissance Woman with Michelle Oram

Links for this Episode:

Listen on Anchor Episode 39: Renaissance Woman with Michelle Oram

Michelle’s blog: Boomer Eco Crusader

Molly from Transatlantic Notes article A Greener World: Debunking Myths about Climate Change

If you want to be on the podcast, or have additional guests to suggest, please email us at sharingtheheartofthematter@gmail.com

25 thoughts on “Episode 39: Renaissance Woman with Michelle Oram”

  4. Michelle, your views on retirement were interesting. Yes, many of us are living longer. But many of us are dropping dead right before or right after retiring (that would stink!). A song sung by you would have been a stress relieving treat, especially since you’d be relieving your own stress as well! Good luck, Michelle! Thank you, Wynne and Vicki, for the interesting podcast. 🙂

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    2. That’s true Nancy. We’ve all heard sad stories about, or known, people who died right before or after retirement. Statistically speaking, though, if you’re alive at 65, there’s a very good chance you’ll live another 25 years or more. And there’s a growing body of knowledge that the loss of purpose and social connection from our work can actually shorten our lives if we don’t find a way to replace it. I’m definitely not suggesting we work until we drop, but I think there’s a place for encore careers and part-time work for people who want it. Thanks for listening. Maybe next time I’ll sing a song. 😉

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  8. Totally on board with Michelle’s philosophy on retirement. Having a life with purpose is what gets our juices flowing. The way seniors are treated in our society is abominable. Every person has value and should be treated for respect.

    As a goal setter, I like the 60 for 60 challenge. Best of luck to Michelle in achieving her goals.

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