Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: Edit your Life

Stories of Change & Creativity

#Society #Change #Creativity #Courage #Innovation #Professor Judy Oskam #Entrepreneur #Conversations #Documentaries #Business #Podcasting Education

19:09

This episode is brought to you by Landrum Talent Solutions, a national recruiting firm specializing in marketing and HR positions. Our guest today has been keeping us up to date with the current state of hiring for marketers on a quarterly basis, which has taken us on quite a roller coaster ride. Today we’re going to look at how marketing and communication execs are responding to the latest developments in the world while still needing to get their work done. To take a look at the latest here, I’d like to welcome back to the show Sue Keith, Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. About Sue Keith Sue Keith is Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. With deep expertise in navigating complex labor markets, Sue has a front-row seat to the evolving dynamics of marketing roles, hiring trends, and the broader implications of AI and economic uncertainty. RESOURCES Landrum Talent Solutions: https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Online Scrum Master Summit is happening June 17-19. This 3-day virtual event is open for registration. Visit www.osms25.com and get a 25% discount off Premium All-Access Passes with the code osms25agilebrand Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com…

about a year ago 34:21

MP3•Episode home

Have you ever wanted or needed to change your life and wondered how to do it? Well, this interview may be for you.
On this episode, I'm excited to share my conversation with Elisabeth Sharp McKetta. Author of 13 books, Liz teaches writing for Harvard and Oxford and is the founder of the Book Year Writer's Circle.
McKetta's latest book is entitled Edit your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World. Elisabeth knows about what she writes. During our interview, she shares the story of her own major life edit.
You can find out more information about Liz, on her website.

Key Takeaways:

Intentional Living: Elisabeth emphasizes the importance of living with intentionality. Much like editing in writing clarifies and refines, intentional living helps us clarify our priorities and align our actions accordingly.
The Power of Editing: Drawing from her background as a writer and teacher, Elisabeth discusses how editing principles can be applied to life.
Elisabeth's Journey: Elisabeth shares her personal journey of undergoing a significant life edit. This experience forms the core of her insights into navigating change and making intentional choices.
Her book, Edit Your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World. The framework is examine, edit and enjoy.

Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show.

Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Chapters

1. Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: Edit your Life (00:00:00)

2. Elisabeth's journey as a writer (00:00:02)

3. The importance of mentors (00:04:22)

4. Intentional Living in a Messy World (00:10:54)

5. Minimalism (00:17:04)

6. How to edit your life (00:21:44)

93 episodes

Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: Edit your Life

Stories of Change & Creativity

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Key Takeaways:

Intentional Living: Elisabeth emphasizes the importance of living with intentionality. Much like editing in writing clarifies and refines, intentional living helps us clarify our priorities and align our actions accordingly.
The Power of Editing: Drawing from her background as a writer and teacher, Elisabeth discusses how editing principles can be applied to life.
Elisabeth's Journey: Elisabeth shares her personal journey of undergoing a significant life edit. This experience forms the core of her insights into navigating change and making intentional choices.
Her book, Edit Your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World. The framework is examine, edit and enjoy.

Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show.

Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Chapters

1. Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: Edit your Life (00:00:00)

2. Elisabeth's journey as a writer (00:00:02)

3. The importance of mentors (00:04:22)

4. Intentional Living in a Messy World (00:10:54)

5. Minimalism (00:17:04)

6. How to edit your life (00:21:44)

93 episodes

#Society #Change #Creativity #Courage #Innovation #Professor Judy Oskam #Entrepreneur #Conversations #Documentaries #Business #Podcasting Education

All episodes

1
Bety Téllez Mora's Path to a Creative Career 33:09

20 days ago33:09

33:09

How do you keep moving forward when the road isn’t clear? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity – Scotland Edition , I sit down with Bety Téllez Mora, Content and Campaigns Officer at Queen Margaret University - Edinburgh. Bety navigates challenges and career pivots—across countries and creative fields. From journalism to digital storytelling, Bety shares how embracing change, taking risks, and staying curious has helped her shape a meaningful creative journey—one step at a time. “I was self-conscious about having three degrees and not much experience, but now I see every part of that journey helped me get here.” Bety opens up about adapting to life abroad, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to say yes—even when the path was unclear. This candid conversation explores what it means to build a career through risk, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Key Takeaways • Growing up as a diplomat's daughter gave Bety the skills to adapt • Studying journalism provided a foundation, but an internship revealed her true path • Balancing perfectionism with practical experience helped her prioritize opportunities outside the classroom • Learning to embrace uncertainty and recognize that career paths don't need to be linear • Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence is important • Using international experience as a strength rather than seeing it as a limitation • There's a constant challenge to maintain brand consistency while reflecting the university community “Even if you don't get it right the first time, that is part of the process.” — Bety Téllez Mora 🎧 Tune in to hear how taking initiative, embracing uncertainty, and saying yes can lead to a career filled with purpose and possibility. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Education Abroad Scotland: Jamin Ochoa’s Life-Changing Journey 13:35

4 weeks ago13:35

13:35

Study abroad Scotland. An unforgettable experience of culture, courage, and personal growth. Texas State University junior Jamin Ochoa signed up for a public relations class in Scotland and it's been a life-changing experience. Jamin shares his journey of personal transformation from the campus of Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh. Key Takeaways • Jamin connected to his family heritage in Scotland • Campus-based programs allow students to truly experience living in another country • Explore Edinburgh Castle, Dean's Village, and the Highlands while finding joy in simple activities • Study abroad is an opportunity to reinvent and experiment with self-expression - without worrying about others' judgment • Scotland is surprisingly progressive and open-minded despite its traditional historical image • Texas State study abroad students build strong bonds and friendships • Scotland's public transportation system is efficient and fun • Might explore opportunities to return to Scotland for a master's degree Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
From Freshman to Fearless: Grace White's Scottish Adventure 17:57

4 weeks ago17:57

17:57

Just say yes to opportunities. Grace White, a rising sophomore public relations major at Texas State University, shares her transformative experiences about her three-week study abroad program in Scotland. Grace was a student in my Intro to Public Relations class at Queen Margaret University. We sat down in the library on campus and I recorded our conversation on my iPhone. We talked about how a classroom presentation evolved into a life-changing journey. Key Takeaways • Overcoming imposter syndrome as a first year student considering study abroad • Surprised by the warmth and friendliness of Scottish locals • Completing public relations projects with real local businesses • Exploring Edinburgh's tourist highlights and hidden gems • Building unexpected friendships with fellow Texas State students • Learning to embrace mistakes as valuable experiences • Discovering Calton Hill as a perfect sunset viewing location • Navigating public transportation and finding adventure in wrong turns • Pride in being among the first Texas State students at Queen Margaret University • Taking home a new philosophy of saying "yes" to opportunities Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Take a Chance on Scotland: Angie Olmos and Study Abroad 12:43

4 weeks ago12:43

12:43

Education abroad gives students the chance to discover the world beyond their familiar borders. On this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity: Scotland Edition, I had the chance to talk with Angie Olmos. Angie is a sophomore Mass Communication major minoring in International Studies at Texas State University . She's in the Intro to Public Relations class I'm teaching this summer at Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh. Together we chat about how global experiences shape who we are and prepare us for the future. Key Takeaways • Living on campus creates a more authentic, cozy experience • Developing routine habits like studying at local coffee shops is part of the cultural experience. Angie's favorite is Black Sheep Coffee ! • Weekend travels to North Berwick, the Highlands, and plans for London expand cultural understanding • Working with local businesses for class projects provides real-world experience • Collaborative projects highlight individual strengths and allow students to support each other • Study abroad challenges stereotypes and teaches students not to "judge a book by its cover" • Traveling independently builds confidence and personal growth Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
From Texas State to Scotland: Tori Pickett's Study Abroad Story 21:16

4 weeks ago21:16

21:16

What’s it like to leave the U.S. for the first time and study in a new country? In this short series I'm highlighting our Texas State University education abroad program in Scotland. Students and faculty spent three weeks living and working on the campus of Queen Margaret University , near Edinburgh, Scotland. Join me as I sit down with students, faculty, and local professionals to capture their stories. Tori, a sophomore advertising major, shares her journey as a first-time international traveler. From navigating airports solo to building confidence through creative PR projects with local Scottish businesses, Tori’s experience shows how studying abroad can transform your perspective—and your future. Tune in to hear how Tori made meaningful connections and gained real-world skills that go beyond the classroom. Key Takeaways: Study abroad builds independence and resilience Tips for navigating cultural differences and public transportation The impact of working on real PR projects in a global setting Creating connections through collaborative, creative student work Making meaningful connections with classmates through projects like her National Gallery photography series Finding confidence in a new environment where Tori could define herself without preconceptions Discovering confidence and community in a new environment You can learn more about our summer Texas State University Edinburgh program here. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
How Writing Retreats Unlock Creativity: Insight from Dr. Vani Naik 15:13

6 weeks ago15:13

15:13

Are you a professor, researcher or writer? Do you battle with distraction and writer's block? If so, a writing retreat might be just what you need to finish your project. Retreats provide academics with distraction-free environments to focus solely on their writing projects, helping them make significant progress in a short time. While teaching a class at Queen Margaret University in Scotland, I stumbled upon a writing retreat just down the hall from my classroom. I asked Dr. Vani Naik, Researcher Developer at Edinburgh Napier University, for a quick interview on my iPhone. I'm fascinated with the creative process and thought it could make for an interesting podcast episode. Let me know what you think. "When you're writing, you're writing, and when you're not writing, you're not writing" - Vani Naik Key Takeaways • Writing retreats separate participants from daily demands and distractions • Structured 90-minute writing sessions create focused blocks of productive time • Creative elements like guided walks, yoga, and puzzles enhance productivity • Building community and acknowledging participants personally creates a supportive environment • Sustainable practices academics can incorporate into their regular routines • Separating writing time from non-writing activities is crucial for productivity • Creative approaches to academic writing challenge traditional views of academic seriousness • Participants consistently are surprised at how much they accomplish in short periods • Setting clear boundaries around writing time (out-of-office replies, phones away) enhances focus Bio: Dr Vani Naik is Researcher Developer at Edinburgh Napier University, where she supports researchers with their professional development. She’s particularly interested in supporting career development, as she recognises how much enjoying your work impacts on wellbeing. She’s carved out an enjoyable working life so that the “Sunday Scaries” don’t apply, and works to foster this in others. Apart from curating creative writing retreats, she is also keen to support professional development for researcher developers. She is part of an international committee creating one-to-one mentoring pairs, and a UK scheme for peer mentoring circles. What Vani loves about her work is that she can create practical impact from her theoretical PhD thesis work on academic career pathways to the professoriate for women engineers. She has also started her own business with a view to sharing creative practices, providing consulting services Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
College Grads: You've got this 5:16

8 weeks ago5:16

5:16

For college grads In this short solo-episode, I hope to send a message of encouragement to college grads. Standing at life's crossroads after graduation doesn't mean you need to have all the answers—just take that first step. You've got this. The path reveals itself through action, so it's important to make a start. Key Takeaways • Feeling uncertain is normal and where the significant growth begins • Life isn't about having a perfect plan, but about learning as you go • A recent reunion with former Texas Tech University students Traci Balmos and Jarret Mallon reminded me to stay open to change and curiosity • Growth happens through bold, unprepared action rather than waiting for certainty • The metaphor of driving uphill—you can't see what's ahead but the view becomes clear as you move forward • Potential isn't about perfection; it's about perseverance and practice If this message resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement. If you have a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me at judyoskam.com. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Creating a TEDx Talk with a little help from my friends 21:07

10 weeks ago21:07

21:07

Judy Oskam shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating and delivering her TEDx talk at Texas State University. She turned the microphone over to her long time friend and mentor Carole Barasch about the process, challenges, and insights gained. Earlier in her career, Carole was an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter and public relations professional. This is an honest conversation about the emotional and strategic work that powers a successful TEDx talk—mentorship, message clarity, and showing up vulnerable. In this episode, we talk about: • The application process - it begins months before the actual TEDx event • How working with multiple coaches helped refine content and delivery • Creating a "personal advisory board" of mentors and friends for guidance • Developing a theme: "take action and figure it out along the way" • Vulnerability as a key component of an impactful presentation • The importance of pacing, connecting with the audience, and practicing • The value of having someone "in your corner" during challenging projects Check out my TEDx talk - Why you should take action - then figure it out. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Kyle Hawley: Creativity, Motherhood & Meaningful Work 31:31

11 weeks ago31:31

31:31

In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity , I talk with Kyle Hawley , founder of Letterpress PLAY and creative director at 26 Keys . Kyle shares how growing up in a multi-generational household shaped her creative journey and her approach to entrepreneurship and motherhood. 🎙️ In this episode, you’ll hear about: Kyle’s path from a theater and mass communication student at Texas State University to entrepreneur How a thesis project on post-WWII playgrounds led to the creation of Letterpress PLAY Life lessons from Kyle's grandparents Balancing motherhood, art, and business by staying grounded Using printmaking to explore the broader archetypes of motherhood Unfolding the Rainbow of Motherhood , an exhibition by Kyle Hawley with Flatbed Press The power of consistent creative practice: “You have to show up for yourself and do that consistently” Bio Kyle Hawley is the founder and creative director of Letterpress PLAY , an Austin-based letterpress studio and stationery store. The studio designs and prints beautiful, high-quality goods, while also curating products from artisans around the world. Her mission with Letterpress PLAY is twofold: to share the heritage craft of letterpress printing and to foster community and play for everyone through her products. Kyle also serves as the creative director of the award-winning 26 Keys Productions, an Austin-based film and television company known for producing cinematic, character-driven stories. As a fine artist, Kyle explores the topics of beginnings and closures regarding developmental phases of life through photographic technics, printing, and textiles. Current exhibitions include the Wichita Falls Museum of Art and Flatbed Press. She is a graduate of The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA and earned her first Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, Broadcast Journalism, and Theater at Texas State University. Her diverse educational background enriches her work across multiple creative fields. Additionally, Kyle serves as a board of trustees for Sarah Lawrence College. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
From Brain Cancer to Bold Action: Andy Bell's Education Revolution 35:44

13 weeks ago35:44

35:44

Andy Bell had a life changing event that rocked his world. And now he's working to change the world of education. As CEO of Thinkery , Andy shares his vision for revolutionizing education by combining AI technology with joyful learning experiences. During our conversation you'll learn: • how a brain cancer diagnosis gave Bell clarity and urgency about his mission to transform education • that our traditional education system was designed for industrial era skills, not the critical thinking needed today • the statistics that show 95% of preschoolers test as creative geniuses while less than 10% of college students do • how parents can model a growth mindset by learning alongside children • about a revolutionary new model that combines formal education with museum experiences • how AI can free educators to focus on nurturing creativity instead of delivering content Check out Andy Bell's TEDx Talk : Education Revolution: How AI and Joy will Transform Learning You can learn more about Thinkery, a nonprofit organization that celebrates play-based STEAM learning, at this link. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Teaching, TEDx, and the Power of Relationships with Mark Paz 23:48

16 weeks ago23:48

23:48

Mark Paz II shares his journey from shy kid to award-winning communication professor and TEDx coordinator and coach at Texas State University. He's on a mission to build strong relationships and develop good people. Mark was my TEDx coach and I think he's a rock star. Thanks to his coaching, I was able to find my voice, craft my message and deliver my talk from the red carpet. During our interview, you will learn how: • Growing up with parents who emphasized service and education created the foundation for Mark's life • Moving to a small school taught Mark essential relationship-building skills • Using a strength-based approach to coaching helps people overcome their fears and deliver powerful messages • Finding the redeeming quality in everyone builds connection and understanding • Stepping outside your comfort zone and "doing it afraid" leads to growth and unexpected opportunities • Maintaining a positive but realistic mindset helps navigate life's challenges You can find out more about Mark Paz here. Check out my TEDx talk and learn why you should take action - then figure it out. If you enjoyed this interview, please rate and review the show. It really does help the algorithms. Remember, if you've got a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me at judyoskam.com. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
J.R. Gonzales: The Impact of Culture, Family and Education 41:20

18 weeks ago41:20

41:20

On this episode, I'm excited to share my interview with J.R. Gonzales. J.R. shares his remarkable journey from growing up in South Texas to becoming a successful entrepreneur, speaker, and podcaster. He's also a proud Texas State University graduate. J.R. recognizes his Latino heritage as a superpower that changed the trajectory of his life and career. He traces his family roots to the 1700's and says ' my ancestors never crossed the border, the border crossed them ." A passionate and engaging storyteller, J.R. Gonzales talks about the importance of family, culture and education. You will learn how: J.R. navigated Texas State University in the late 1970s as one of the few Latino students Family can support a growth mindset Education is a tool to combat discrimination Why the Latino Business Report podcast was created J.R. met six US presidents and stood on the Great Wall of China 13 times Confidence and social intelligence are key elements of success Asking the right questions shapes your future Swimming with Ralph, the swimming pig, impacted the course of J.R.'s career If you've got a story to share or know someone who does, reach out to me and let's connect . Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Insight from my grad class on creativity 6:54

20 weeks ago6:54

6:54

In this solo-episode, I share some insight about the graduate class I'm teaching - Creative Problem Solving in Mass Communication. I designed the class to connect students with creative entrepreneurs, business and media leaders. This semester, my students have met with three fantastic guest lecturers. Wendy Conklin, founder of Chair Whimsy Dr. Carrie Angell, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Fred Poston III, Exec. Director - Texas Media Production Alliance When we open ourselves to different perspectives, we unlock powerful creative resources for personal and professional growth. Key Points: • Creativity is a process that can be learned • A growth mindset and curiosity leads to creativity • Creative processes don't need to be neat to be authentic and effective • Embracing uncertainty can transform negative situations into positive catalysts Think about how you can apply these creative insights to your own life. How might you bring more creativity to the problems you're facing and take creative action today? Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
A Valentine's Day Thank You 5:46

23 weeks ago5:46

5:46

Happy Valentine's Day! In this short solo episode, I celebrate the support we receive from friends, family, and colleagues. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the kindness that helps us navigate life’s challenges and embrace change. Key Takeaways • A grocery store encounter highlights the hidden struggles of others • Navigating change requires a strong support system • Friends and colleagues play vital roles in our journeys • Family support is invaluable during tough times • Kindness is an action, not just a feeling • A reminder we are not alone in our struggles Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity , make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review —it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk . Why you should take action - then figure it out.…

1
Navigating Your 20s: Build Identity and Find Your Path with Dr. Meg Jay 32:58

25 weeks ago32:58