Opening The Gate - Hosted by Felicia Brown
Felicia Brown
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A Podcast about clearing the path for good things to flow into your life and from you back out into the world. Let's grow the flow - together!
Available episodes
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Jul 24, 2022
Perfect Timing
Sometimes it seems nothing is going right, until you see it was actually all in perfect timing.
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Jul 8, 2022
Let Go of Expectations
Wisdom and insight often come to me during or after a run. "Let go of expectations to find your true power" was a recent piece of wisdom and couldn't have come at a better time.
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Jul 3, 2022
Everything All At Once
Do you know an empath? I did, without knowing it, until I realized I was one too.
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May 24, 2022
Deadlines
Having deadlines and due dates keeps many of us on track with work tasks and to do lists, but how often do we set deadlines for getting the fun, satisfying things in life accomplished? A few thoughts from today.
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May 19, 2022
Toxic positivity?
Recently I wrote about Toxic Positivity on Facebook. It generated A TON of comments and so I decided to share it here.
This week two friends who have a podcast used that post (and this episode) as inspiration for their own podcast. Hope you will check it out too!
Link to my original post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10227014359082422&id=1158084519
Link to Moore Shenanigans "Feelings Are OK"
https://anchor.fm/james-donna6465/episodes/Feelings-Are-Okay-e1imfbm/a-a1pvt8 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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May 11, 2022
Why I Celebrate the Day After Mother's Day
Mother's Day is tough for me, not because my mom is gone from my life, but also because she was in it. Part of my healing comes from sharing my story: part from hearing those of others. This episode was inspired by one of those stories which you can find here:https://www.huffpost.com/entry/reconnect-estranged-child-parent_n_62713e5ce4b050c90f44fa94
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May 8, 2022
Running for thr Win and Loss
Today I ran to shed the pain of loss and thought about what winning can mean.
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May 5, 2022
Pausing In Love
It is so tempting to debate others on social media about political topics or social issues. And sometimes I have. At other times, I've chosen a different path as I share here.
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May 4, 2022
Finding the Sparkle
One's environment can change the experience we have of ourselves and our situation.
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Apr 22, 2022
A Pocket Full of Kindness
Travel delays do not bring out the best in people. Which is why I carry some some special tools with me to give people a boost.
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Apr 18, 2022
Choices
No matter the situation, we always have choices.
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Apr 16, 2022
Sharing Joy and Gratitude Along the Way
Speaking at conferences gives me opportunities to visit family and back to familiar places to share my knowledge with other professionals. But sometimes the biggest impact I make and feel is from those I meet along the way.
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Apr 9, 2022
A Year to Happen, Laugh and Love
I love Facebook memories because they are like a journal of sorts that pops up for me to inspect every day and see who and where I was on this day a year– or maybe ten years ago. Sometimes it helps remember fun moments and at others it lets me see how I was growing or inspired. This week I’ve been reminded of some important life lessons I feel are important to share. Here’s one… --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Apr 4, 2022
Filling Up the Bucket
I often get inspiration during my morning runs. "By running up the hill that makes me cry, by pushing myself to keep going, by making time to write and share this experience, I am filling up my bucket and strengthening it to told more. By doing things I love TODAY I am emptying my mind of potential regrets, and making space for the energy and care of my mind, body and spirit."
Listen for more. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Apr 1, 2022
Today
As I headed to bed I felt called to share these words with "someone" who needed to hear them. Maybe it is you!
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Mar 28, 2022
The March of Hope
Today's podcast came from something I originally wrote in March of 2020. Though I made a few tiny adjustments to make it current, it still rings true. I hope it gives you hope for the rest of March and onward. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Mar 24, 2022
Divine Gratitude
Gratitude is something I speak and write about a lot. Saying thank you in and of itself can be a simple and ongoing prayer - and one that is transformative. A quick idea on how to turn gratitude into something deeper. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Mar 23, 2022
Seeing "Friends" Through the Lens of Love
Why are we "friends" with people on social media with those who we are not really actual friends with? Some random thoughts I had as I recovered from a routine medical procedure. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Mar 22, 2022
"Have to" vs. "Get To"
Apologies for being absent for a couple weeks. I've gotten to do a lot of other things lately - just a few too many - but something had to give. I really love doing podcasts though and am excited to be back. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Mar 10, 2022
Doing What is Right Vs. Doing What is Right for You
Life is a little busy at the moment. That is what makes this episode SO perfect, because it is a living example of me listening to my own advice instead of someone else's. Perhaps this episode will encourage you to do the same in your life.
Check out Sunflower Wisdom here or on Amazon.
Buy SCARS to STARS!
Watch my interview --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Mar 7, 2022
Finishing Unfinished Business with Forgiveness
Today's episode includes a chapter from my book Sunflower Wisdom. I was prompted to share this after I received an unexpected apology from someone who hurt me deeply a year or two ago. As someone who constantly encourages people to live from a place of love; to accept and forgive others; and to walk their talk, I've recently been faced with the tasks of forgiving some folks who have hurt me deeply. Sharing some of my steps for letting go.
Sunflower Wisdom is available here or on Amazon
The other book I mentioned, Unfinished Business by James van Praagh. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Feb 28, 2022
Seeds of Hope
Sunflowers brighten my mood and remind me to stay focused on the warmth and goodness in the world. Ukrainians believe that these flowers look towards the sky looking for hope and well-being, while at night they lower their heads to reflect on their lives. For me, sunflowers will always signify the strength and bravery of one woman, of the Ukrainian people, and of others who have spoken out against the conflict, even when doing so may threaten their existence. To me, sunflowers will always be about standing up and sharing warmth and goodness in spite of the darkness.
Full article on Ukrainian National Flower
Video link (don't watch if triggered by profanity, guns, camo or the conflict in general)
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In an effort to share my own seeds of hope and help others find light in the darkness, I have partnered with Amazon to give away the ebook/Kindle versions of The Sunflower Princess and Sunflower Wisdom FOR FREE from Monday February 28th through Friday March 4th. This offer is availabl…
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Feb 24, 2022
Breaking Through the Window of All or Nothing Thinking
How many times have I thought the window of opportunity in front of me is the only one - and because it had closed, the chance was gone? How many times have I passed up trying something because I felt like I was too late, or too old to do it? Time to let go of my all or nothing thinking.
Opening the Gate podcast was written and produced yours truly, Felicia Brown. To learn more about me and how I try to share good in the world, please visit www.FeliciaBrown.com, www.Spalutions.com or www.TheDreamTeamDucks.com. If you want to connect with me through social media or are interested in having me speak at your conference, event or summit, go to www.linktr.ee/ FeliciaBrown.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Feb 22, 2022
Out of Crisis, Chaos and Scars, Stars are Born
Though I probably wouldn’t choose to re-experience any of my darkest days, I am a believer that every challenge or problem we encounter may be used to spark or inspire a “great endeavor.”
Learning to see crisis and chaos as creative and benevolent forces is not always easy. In fact, when the world feels like it’s spinning out of control, this perspective may seem completely out of reach. If you’d asked me in the heart of the pandemic or other difficult times, I might not have been able to grasp onto it either. However, over time I’ve learned again and again, dark moments will eventually pass, cuts and bruises will heal, and the sun will once again shine through.
The collaborative anthology, "SCARS to STARS: Stories of Vulnerability, Resilience, and Overcoming Adversity" is available today on Amazon.com. The organization benefitting from the book - The Realize Foundation - is focused on creating community and conversations about mental health awareness and suicide preve…
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Feb 21, 2022
Sometimes Just Showing Up Equals Success
Being willing to show up and do your best, regardless of the outcome or "place" you achieve - or the possible failure you might experience - makes you achieve success more often than you might know. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Feb 14, 2022
Build Bridges Instead of Burning Them
In a former life, I used to be someone who burned bridges. However, this practice rarely brought me the results I wanted in the short-term and made for some difficult navigation in the future. A few thoughts on how to build bridges instead of burning them.
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Feb 6, 2022
Posing, Exposing, and Composing My Way to Joy
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the last few years is that it’s OK to look silly to find your joy. And evidently it is something I’m here to learn really well, at least as evidenced by the last few days, three stories of fun and a song. It's entirely possible they all have something to do with rubber ducks.
Link to the karaoke version of the song I listened to while singing
The "official" video with The Captain and Tennille
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Feb 2, 2022
From Stepping Off the World to Staying In It
While taking in the news that the former Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst, had taken her own life, II came across some other comments and remarks of disbelief which left me speechless. Treating someone with kindness and reaching out with support is more important than ever before. (Note: The episode mistakenly refers to Cheslie as Miss Universe. She was a competitor but did not win the title of Miss Universe.)
We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ or call 800-273-8255 for more information.
_OTHER ARTICLES & RESOURCES_
Gracie Gold – Olympian
Kate Spade - designer
Michael Phelps
Celebrity Mental Health Awareness
Prince William talks about suicide
Female celebrities raise awareness for mental health
SCARS TO STARS - focused on mental health aw…
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Jan 31, 2022
From Wall Flower to Will Flower
As a natural performer, I’m good at the role of confident entrepreneur and entertaining speaker. Yet, I can still easily become a wall-flower, feeling like an outsider SO many times – and wondered what I was doing wrong. Recently I had some insights about how to make things better.
The article which made me start thinking about this issue.
Am I Invisible --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 27, 2022
Ask the Right Question & the Answer Will Come
I really believe in the idea that when you are looking for an answer to a question – and put it out to God, the Universe or the bathroom walls, the answer you need will come. What is most important is asking the right question and then listening.
I got the answer I was seeking through the links below.
The Tim Ferriss Show
Interview with Aisha Tyler
Interview with Blake Mycoskie --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 24, 2022
If Not Now, When?
Several years ago, I had a uncomfortably close brush with death which pushed me from having an “I’ll do it someday” mindset to one of “If not now, when?” Since that dark and dangerous night, the phrase “if not now, when?” has pushed me through some tough moments in training, business and life. We all have them – the days when we don’t want to keep going – or even start and I've learned to follow through on the opportunities which won’t be there later whenever possible.
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Jan 21, 2022
Stepping Back to Leap Ahead
Since the start of the pandemic, I‘ve gone through some major life changes which gave me room to jump into some new adventures. But as in much of life, things don't always go the way you think they will. But it's ok to step back before you leap ahead!
You can read the transcript for this podcast on my blog at https://www.feliciabrown.com/blog/stepping-back-to-leap-forward --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 18, 2022
Shower Power
When you live in the country and have a well, no power can equal no shower. When faced with the possibility of losing both during a winter storm, I decided to take quick action so I'd have no regrets.
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Jan 16, 2022
Finding My Light by Fixing the Switch
One thing Sarah Silverman and I have in common is at least one way we try to overcome anxiety and depression is by finding ways to laugh with ourselves. Yesterday I did surprised myself with an impromptu home repair which unexpectedly brought out the laughter and light in me.
Check out the interview with Sarah Silverman I mentioned on The Tim Ferriss Show
Fair warning...you may hear me sing briefly in this episode. Evidently I have overcome my fear of karaoke - at least when you can't see me!
Listen to the original version and watch the video for the song "I Kissed a Girl" by Katie Perry here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 14, 2022
Get Busy to Get Better
A few weeks ago, I saw a book titled “When I Got Busy, I got Better.” I laughed at the title for a moment, because I've been good at being busy for a long time. Or was. But of late I've learned too much downtime can lead to me feeling down - and I decided it was time to make a change.
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Jan 10, 2022
Getting The Lift I Need
Many years ago, I was in a yearlong leadership development program for executives and business owners which introduced us to new areas, cultures and programs in our city. One spring day we were given the assignment to spend the day role playing - mine was being someone who was wheelchair bound. The experience I had was eye-opening and "uplifting: in ways I did not expect.
By the way, this episode was inspired by a recent story shared on Facebook by my colleague, Irene Diamond. Her experience is her own to tell, but if you want to learn more about Irene, you can visit https://www.thediamondmethod.com/ and https://www.irenediamond.com/programs/. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 7, 2022
Stumbling is the Point
Being perfect - or trying to be - is a problem because it's just not possible. Sharing one of my many opportunities for letting go of the need to pretend I'm perfect by making mistakes and telling others about them. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 5, 2022
Giving Back and Letting Love Flow
This podcast was brought into existence, finally, because of my desire to break through the isolation, anxiety and depression I’ve been feeling - and to reconnect with life. I know it’s time to get back into the flow of positive energy, inspiration, creativity and love. That’s where I know I belong but it has felt just slightly out of reach for too long. I know I’m not the only one feeling this way and I am feeling a pull to make changes that will help me get back to helping others.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 3, 2022
I Want My Two Dollars
It’s the time of year, when folks are setting goals, making resolutions, and taking steps to change or improve their lives. After seeing a simple challenge on Facebook encouraging folks to start building a nest egg, my husband and I talked about doing the challenge together. How the idea of making a new $2 investment affected me was surprising.
The quote I reference in this episode was from Jim Rohn, who authored countless books and audio and video programs, and influenced a generation of personal-development trainers and executives from America’s top corporations. Learn more about him and his work here: https://www.jimrohn.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 2, 2022
Racing Rubber Ducks and Getting Back to Ready, Fire Aim
If you've been paying attend to my classes, articles, websites or social media posts over the last couple years, you know that rubber ducks are "a thing" in my life. Besides being cute and fun, they have been some good helpers in keeping me smiling, staying present and taking action NOW. They are also a key to helping me revive a business philosophy I followed for years of "Ready, Fire, Aim."
There's a great reminder of this idea in the book, "The Slight Edge" by Jeff Olson which I briefly talk about. The book is available on Amazon (of course) and other places. Check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Slight-Edge-Turning-Disciplines-Happiness/dp/1626340463 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia947/message
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Jan 1, 2022
Opening the Gate - An Invitation to Grow with the Flow
As someone who always used to be the person with something to say, an insight, story or helpful piece of advice, I’ve found of late that I’ve lost some of my voice. Well maybe not lost it but put it away for a bit to be still, quite and to listen. While being still and silent is often a restorative measure for me, too much of a good thing is the opposite.
Today I'm taking a step to nourish myself in another way - by reaching out, giving back and testing my first podcast. Join me for Opening the Gate, a new and evolving podcast, to explore ideas and stories for opening your mind, heart and spirit. Let’s grow the flow of good things into our lives – and from us back into the world, together.
It seems like the perfect way to wrap up one year and get ready for the new one. I hope you agree and enjoy this tiny preview of Opening the Gate.
Felicia
Check out the podcast that inspired me to get started: Optimal Daily Living with Justin Malik at https://oldpodcast.com/ --- Send in…
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Dec 31, 2021
Opening The Gate - Hosted by Felicia Brown (Trailer)
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