The Heart of the Matter

One of things I find fascinating about when we share our stories is how they land for other people. It’s that chance to find out that we’re not alone in our experience and also that every family has its own flavor of wacky.

In this episode of the podcast, my co-host Vicki Atkinson and I are with author and educator Gloria Golec talking about her family memories.

We talk about acclaimed author and educator Gloria’s heartwarming new memoir, South Side Memories. This captivating book invites you on a journey through vivid snapshots of family, Polish immigrant heritage, and the vibrant streets of Chicago. With every page, Gloria masterfully reveals how cherished memories shaped her life and inspired her path.

We uncover the power of storytelling as Gloria shares how writing helped her stay connected to her roots and loved ones. She generously reveals the secrets to starting—and finishing—a personal project that might seem daunting at first, making it accessible for anyone ready to share their own story.

South Side Memories isn’t just a memoir; it’s a celebration of identity and resilience. Through Gloria’s uplifting narrative, you’ll learn how sharing your story can touch hearts and inspire others. This is a must-listen for anyone who values heritage, family, and the transformative magic of storytelling. Don’t miss your chance to be inspired—fall in love with South Side Memories today.

Takeaways

• The book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences.
• Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones.
• Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth.
• Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity.
• Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships.
• Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings.
• Teaching experiences can influence one’s writing and storytelling approach.
• Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer.
• Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time.
• Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community.

Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast so you may have already listened to it.

Here’s Gloria describing her captivating book, South Side Memories:

Here are some ways you can watch this compelling and inspiring episode:

• The podcast player embedded below
• Click this link to watch in a browser: Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec
• Subscribe to How To Share on Spotify, Amazon Music, or Apple Podcasts
• Subscribing to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@howtosharepodcast

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

Links for this episode:

How To Share Snapshots of the American Dream transcript

Gloria Golec’s profile on Eckhartz Press

South Side Memories on Eckhartz Press

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith