Nursing and the Arts Podcast- Ep13: Guest Marietta F. Lee and Host Susan J. Farese
Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep13: Marietta F. Lee, MSN, RN, BFA Painting and Nursing and the Arts Podcast Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Welcome to our 2nd Season!
Join us on today’s 13th episode of the Nursing and the ArtsPodcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with our guest Ep13: -Marietta F. Lee, MSN, RN And – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, Host of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)!
Ep13: Marietta F. Lee, MSN, RN and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN (right)
Show Notes
Well worth it to listen/watch and then please comment and subscribe!
What an enjoyable conversation with Marietta (Mary) Lee! We discussed many topics, including how Mary became a nurse as well as an artist, how caregiving can be stressful and contribute to burnout and depression, ways that therapeutic creative art (and the arts- especially whimsical art) can be fun, inspiring etc. We also discussed what the catalyst that started her journey creating art, her idea, quest and ultimately success in founding the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy, and much more!
Marietta (Mary) F. Lee, MSN, RN (University of South Florida) and BA Art (Eastern Kentucky University), BFA Painting (Ringling College), is the Founder, Curator and Executive Director of the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy in Sarasota, Florida. She has clinical experience as an RN/EMT/Paramedic.
Of note, Susan met Mary are kindred spirits (and nursing arts pioneers) and share the same birthday!
Also, some trivia – the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy is named after three additional Mariettas! Our very own Marietta PLUS her Mother, Grandmother and niece!
We met during the early 1990’s when both were seminar presenters in the nursing creative arts. Mary, a painter and Susan, a poet! Imagine that! So many years later we are still practicing our arts.
For some of her history in art- in 1978, Mary was and treasured being an Emergency Room nurse in Kentucky. She became an artist serendipitously after tending to a small airplane crash in Jessamine County, Kentucky as a Nurse Paramedic EMT volunteer, discovering no survivors. There was no one to assist or transport. This changed her life in a profound way- She started sketching and then painting after that horrific event. Her spirits lifted. She them obtained her BA Art in 1981 and her BFA in Painting in 1991.
According to Mary, Therapeutic Arts is multifaceted. There’s a process of making art, thinking about it. Art therapy is making the art from one’s heart and one’s history, creating something new from experiences.
Here are two of Mary’s paintings that Susan has on her office walls! Left to right: John Stanton Store; Painting by Marietta F. Lee (With permission) and “Out on a Limb” Painting by Marietta F. Lee (With Permission)
John Stanton Store; Painting by Marietta F. Lee, (With Permission)
“Out on a Limb” Painting by Marietta F. Lee (With Permission)
Mary started the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy museum formally in 2006 but thought about it years earlier as a caregiver for her parents – and as she experienced boredom/depression would visit art museums as a short respite to uplift her spirit. But the content at the museums needed a change! Her visits did not give her joy.
Thus, the idea of Mary starting a museum sparked!
After 2004 when her parents passed away, Mary’s Wills and Trust lawyer gave her advice regarding her museum idea : “You have to do that for yourself”!
The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy began in 2006 in Connecticut and Mary later purchased the new site when she moved to Sarasota, Florida in 2008. The indoor-outdoor museum has wonderful gardens and according to the museum’s “About” page, “is a space for happiness, joy and peace”. It has paintings, sculptures and mixed media pieces.
Why Whimsy? Because “serious” art doesn’t give Mary pleasure. She wants to keep it lighthearted ~and loud!
As Mary stated “Art is the grease to keep on going”
Many thanks, Mary. I loved having you as a guest on the Nursing and the Arts Podcast!
Marietta’s LINKS:
Get in touch with Marietta F. Lee: Email: mleeawp@aol.com
Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy 2121 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34234
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Virtual Assisting, Marketing, Websites, Film Making, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
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Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep12: Beth Quaas, DNP, CRNA, APRN And Nursing and the Arts Podcast Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Welcome to our 2nd Season!
Join us on today’s 12th episode of the Nursing and the ArtsPodcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with our guest Ep12: – Beth Quaas, DNP, CRNA, APRN, An Inspiring, Empathetic Nurse Anesthetist and Host of the “Don’t Eat Your Young” Podcast – And – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, Host of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)!
Ep12: Beth Quaas, DNP, CRNA, APRN, An Inspiring, Empathetic Nurse Anesthetist and Host of the “Don’t Eat Your Young” Podcast and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN (right)
Show Notes
Meet the amazing Beth Quaas! It was delightful to virtually meet Beth when I was interviewed on her Podcast “Don’t Eat Your Young” in 2022. She is truly a compassionate and advocate for nursing in the best way!
Here are some tidbits from our wonderful conversation!
Beth has been a nurse since the 1990’s, starting with her LPN (in a nursing home), then her Associate Degree, followed by pursuing her Bachelor’s, Masters degree (1999 and CRNA) and Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2010.
Her clinical experience included ICU and the Operating Room before pursuing Nurse Anesthesia School, obtaining her Masters and CRNA and ultimately received her DNP. For the past five years, Beth has been the Associate Director of the Minneapolis School of Anesthesia. She also continues clinically as a Nurse Anesthetist in the O.R. as well.
She truly exudes joy in the nursing profession.
As a former Director of a CRNA group, realizing that the lack of training for and support in leadership was challenging and difficult, Beth experienced burnout. Now, she helps other nurses deal with and tell their own stories about bullying, burnout, workplace violence and more through her podcast “Don’t Eat Your Young”, (with success in it’s fifth season)! Her intention is to let nurses that are struggling know that they are not alone and that her podcast “Don’t Eat Your Young”, supports and provides resources for them.
Way to go Beth!
Each podcast guest on the “Don’t Eat Your Young” Podcast tells their own story.
Beth believes that Nurses need to discover a creative or artistic outlet and use creative ways to reduce stress, anxiety or burnout, whether at the bedside or not. We also discussed workplace safety.
Since she didn’t feel as though she was savvy with technology, Beth has the support of an incredible assistant for her podcast website, branding and social media.
For fun, (and for escape) Beth loves to read, especially Historical Fiction and SciFi. Appealing Book covers “speak to her”!
As for her views on the Art of Nursing as well as what she teaches her nurse anesthesia students-Beth described that anesthesia is like flying a plane, where there’s a take-off, then flying and finally a landing. There’s an art to making sure that patients are safe and comfortable and wake up in a timely manner with fine tuned medications and a smooth transition from the operating room.
Regarding her podcast title “Don’t Eat Your Young” , Beth emphasized that “young” is not chronological age, but “where you’re at”. Nursing students have knowledge and can teach experienced Nurses as well.
Another takeaway from our conversation is to have confidence in your role, whether it be as a Nurse Nurse Anesthetist or Nurse Practitioner – this confidence puts patients at ease.
Thank you so much Beth, you are truly an inspiration in Nursing!
About Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Virtual Assisting, Marketing, Websites, Film Making, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
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Nursing and the Arts Ep11: Keith Carlson, BSN. RN, NC-BC
Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep11: Keith Carlson, BSN, RN, NC-BC-AKA “Nurse Keith”: The Multifaceted Nurse Coach, Podcaster, Speaker, Writer and More – And Nursing and the Arts Podcast Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Join us on today’s 11th episode of the Nursing and the ArtsPodcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with our guest Ep11: Keith Carlson – AKA “Nurse Keith”: The Multifaceted Nurse Coach, Podcaster, Speaker, Writer and More- And Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, Host of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)!
Ep11: Keith Carlson – AKA “Nurse Keith”: The Multifaceted Nurse Coach, Podcaster, Speaker, Writer and More- and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN (right)
Show Notes
Nurse Keith recently returned to his home in New Mexico from his three-week adventurous honeymoon – spending time in three countries – Cypress, Greece and Turkey. Keith and I had an equally adventurous conversation!
Side note: As I mentioned in the heading that Keith is a nurse coach, podcaster, writer, consultant, and keynote speaker, I asked Keith “What don’t you do?” He explained that after visiting a few boutique hotels on his honeymoon, he’d actually entertain owning/running a sweet little boutique hotel! (Can’t wait to see what develops with this, Nurse Keith)!
Originally Keith attended art school in Philadelphia and ultimately made a change to nursing, obtaining his Associates degree first and then his BSN in 1996 from University of Massachusetts Amherst. He’s also a board certified Nurse Coach.
Keith and I discussed the art of nursing- Keith acknowledged how nursing is definitely science based, and also believes there’s an artful side of nursing on various levels – such as, the relational and connectivity of Nursing is artful – The way of being a nurse can be artful -depending on where you are, the work one does, type of clients, etc. I totally agree!
Keith was a pioneer nurse blogger since 2005 with his blog Digital Doorway -although he’s been blogging less frequently. In addition to his coaching, writing, speaking etc., he has thoroughly transitioned to hosting the podcast, and guesting on podcasts (such as Nursing and the Arts Podcast).
Keith self-published a few books and writes for organizations
Keith inherited his father’s love for nature and values it as well. He appreciates the New Mexico sky, mountains, desert, and living in a remote area with his wife.
Keith’s idea for fun -spending time outside, walking the dog (and at the same time admiring the rolling hills, and quartz crystal). Keith also enjoys traveling in the surrounding area, having conversations with his wife. He’d like more time traveling.
As many of us have, Keith also has experienced burnout – in approximately 2007- after about 10 years of nursing. He explained how writing and blogging was very helpful and he used the burnout as a vehicle, for communicating -writing about it. He used his burnout experience in motivational talks, on his podcast, in keynotes and workshops – he tried to use it as vehicle to communicate what he did to transform it! (Yes indeed Keith)!
Amazing fact-that Keith hasn’t worked in hospitals, but has definitely worked steadily throughout his career. Some places included: federally qualified health/community centers in economically challenged areas in Massachusetts, home health, hospice, public health and as Chief Nurse Officer for Home Health. Keith presently is working part time in a Travel Medical Clinic (administering immunizations for people traveling).
Keith’s speaking topics include personal/professional transformation and growth, change, personal development, leadership, communication, relationships, etc.
As a podcaster, Keith thinks the best art is the relational part. After doing about 75 or so solo episodes he transitioned into interview style (at least 400 so far). Wrangling and interviewing guests comes easy. However, the mechanics of publishing a podcast can be challenging. (I’ll say)!
Other ways to be creative is having a creative mind, expanding the definition of what creative means, i.e. gardening, parenting, creating a beautiful home, relationships, or how one cares about their patients.
Many thanks, Nurse Keith, what an enjoyable chat with you!
Nurse Keith’s Bio:
Nurse Keith’s Bio: Nurse Keith is a holistic career coach for nurses, award-winning nurse blogger, writer, podcaster, keynote and motivational speaker, and popular career columnist. With two decades of nursing experience, Keith deeply understands the issues faced by 21st-century nurses. From 2012 until its sunset in 2017, Keith co-hosted RNFMRadio, a groundbreaking nursing podcast. Keith’s message of savvy career management and professional satisfaction reaches tens of thousands of nurses worldwide. Keith can be found on LinkedIn, and Instagram—as well as at NurseKeith.com.
Keith’s wife, Shada McKenzie, is a talented and insightful traditional astrologer, reader of the tarot, and scholar of the esoteric sciences who has access to powerful tools that can help you gracefully and thoughtfully navigate life transitions, career choices, and relationships. She also teaches tarot and astrology to individuals and groups in Santa Fe, New Mexico and via Zoom. Shada offers a 10% discount to all Nurse Keith’s followers, clients, and listeners on their first reading or consultation. Please visit Shada’s beautiful website, The Circle and the Dot for more information on how to work with her.
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Marketing, Websites, Filmmaking, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Nursing and the Arts Ep10: Janine Kelbach, BSN, RNC-OB; CEO, WriteRN, LLC and Host, Savvy Nurse Writer Podcast
Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep10: The Nurse Writer with the Right Savvy: Meet Janine Kelbach, BSN, RNC-OB; CEO, Write RN, LLC and Host, Savvy Nurse Writer Podcast and Nursing and the Arts Podcast Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Join us on today’s 10th episode of the Nursing and the ArtsPodcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with our guest Janine Kelbach, BSN, RNC-OB; CEO, Write RN, LLC and Host, Savvy Nurse Writer Podcast and Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, Host of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)!
Ep10: The Nurse Writer with the Right Savvy: Janine Kelbach, BSN, RNC-OB; CEO, Write RN, LLC and Host, Savvy Nurse Writer Podcast and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN (right)
Show Notes
What can I say about the incredible Janine Kelbach!? (Note: the ending of her last name sounds like the composer ~ BACH)! Janine is a true composer of “making the write things right”!
I loved chatting with this multifaceted Ohio Nurse on Episode 10 of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast!
Janine is a Thought Leader, Content Writer, Healthcare SEO and AI Consultant, and Automation Specialist for Online Businesses.
Above all, Janine trusts her nose! The nose knows! She used her common sense (and scents lol) – After spending her junior year of high school service hours in Obstetrics (OB) at a hospital, and seeing a nurse’s aide hold a baby (as well as watching a live delivery), she decided to leave her high school Burger King job (note- the scent of hamburgers) and shift to being a nurse’s aide in OB (i.e. experiencing other scents) and then onto obtaining her nursing degree. The rest is history (or shall we say HERstory)!
After her BSN, She had clinical experience in labor and delivery at the bedside at a small hospital, and additionally with high risk patients at tertiary center and as an assistant nurse manager back at a smaller hospital (where she served as preceptor, charge nurse, educator, etc). She also became certified as an RNC-OB.
Experiencing burnout from long hours as an assistant nurse manager, she pivoted to home care and delighted in the independence in that role. Until, however, she experienced a traumatic dog bite by a patient’s pitbull-which changed her perspective.
She started freelance writing for postpartum moms and for Healthline (and didn’t tell anyone for awhile). Eventually she had too many clients asking for her writing services to be able to tackle it all, and eventually started her agency Write RN and vetting/including other nurse writers.
Now she has over 500 nurse writers in her database with her agency Write RN! Content ranges from blog posts, to websites, ceu content, medical and nursing education, reviewing/verifying medical content, etc.
Janine is also efficient in waking up early to the tune of 5 am, working until 9 am. Then she takes a long break until about 11 am, after which she does project management, followup and emails (along with podcast episodes)!
Janine relaxes with painting, doing art with her kids, going with family on adventures and traveling as well as working out (guess what? She’s also enjoys gymnastics)!
Janine mentioned some of the benefits of AI, especially for outlining, brainstorming and generating/expanding ideas. (Be sure to listen to the episode for some tips with AI).
She is very curious -which pushes her to keep learning. She encourages nurses to “be different”!
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Marketing, Websites, Filmmaking, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Nursing and the Arts Podcast Ep7: Sandra Pagenta, DNP, APRN, Success NP
Nursing and the Arts Ep7: Sandra Pagenta, DNP, APRN, Success NP Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep7: The Nurse Practitioner who is a seasoned podcaster and digital download maven! Meet Sandra Pagenta, DNP, APRN Success NP and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Join us on today’s 7th episode of the Nursing and the Arts Podcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with Sandra Pagenta, DNP, APRN
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)!
Ep7: The Nurse Practitioner who is a seasoned podcaster and digital download maven! Meet Sandra Pagenta, DNP, APRN Success NP and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN (right)
Show Notes
I first met Sandra when I was her guest on her previous Podcast, the Doctor Nurse Podcast, in 2022. That conversation was energetic and inspiring! We bonded and I knew I had to invite her as my guest on the Nursing and the Arts Podcast!
Sandra obtained her BSN (2008), Masters (2012) and DNP (2016) degrees at the University of Florida. Her clinical nursing background includes Oncology, Neurosurgery, and Nurse Practitioner in both Gastroenterology and Urology.
Since 2019 she pivoted with the birth of her son and is now working part time as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Urology at a Veteran’s Hospital in Gainesville, FL.
Sandra was the Creator and Host of the Doctor Nurse Podcast for 2 1/2 years and most recently created a shift to Success NP with her friend Jackie King, Women’s Health NP that she met from 20 years ago in nursing school.
She continually searches for “holes” and how to fill them! She and Jackie noticed a gap in NP clinical resources before NP students stated their clinical rotations. Thus Success NP was created! Through conversations with the Krish Chopra of NP Hub, Sandra and Jackie created clinical resources and workbooks and it led to them earning passive income.
After her graduating with her BSN, Sandra started as an oncology nurse for a few years, then transferred to neurosurgery during her MSN program.
Her first NP role was Gastrointestinal NP and it was a pivotal moment when she was fired from that position. She found it a blessing though. She transitioned into Urology generating income for the practice by performing procedures.
She hosted over 100 episodes of the Doctor Nurse Podcast and now has co-hosted several podcast episodes for Success NP.
She believes that when you approach life with curiosity and the desire to learn, it increases your neuroplasticity. Entering new unfamiliar spaces can create new pathways! Give it a shot!
The digital downloads she and Jackie created are clinical resources or guides for the NP student, new NP, etc.
NP’s have a provide role with a different set of goals than traditional nursing- when patients come in for instance, NP needs to decide what to treat with, what the differential diagnosis is, then History and Physical and Review of Systems, Physical Exam, and Plan. While a Nurse may take orders, the NP as provider gives orders…
There is a lack of time for NP students to be proficient as an NP. Imposter syndrome may set in for solo NP’s and new NP’s.
Sandra emphasized that there are 4 million RN’s and only approximately 385,000 NPs.
For “fun” Sandra is beginning to home school her 5 year old son. She values time with her family, notably her husband and two children.
Sandra stated that she changed perspective, changed her mind set with health issues she was confronting before the birth of her son.
She encourages to have desire, reinvent yourself and embrace change!
Thank you very much Sandra! It has been a pleasure!
About Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Marketing, Websites, Filmmaking, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Ahoy dear book readers and enthusiasts in the San Diego area! No – you don’t have to travel to an island for this amazing upcoming Treasure Island Book Festival! Now featuring over 70 authors! Plus, it’s FREE! For the entire Family too! Well, shiver me timbers!
Poster for the Treasure Island Book Festival
On Saturday, October 12, from 10 am – 5 pm (Pacific Time) at the San Marcos Community Center, (3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA), join in the fun at the “Treasure Island Book Festival”. Led by local CEO and young adult Author, Tanya Ross of “Once Upon a Book Fair” (“Where stories for all ages come to life”) and a variety of authors and other team members. Get ready for a fun-filled day!
Once Upon a Book Fair 2024 is a literary celebration that immerses authors and readers in the adventures found at the turn of every page. Meet new authors, discover new books, get autographs.
UPDATED 10/10/2024:
Here is a podcast interview on the Spotlight on the Community Podcast with Guests “Once Upon a Book Fair” CEO Tanya Ross and Author Jolie Tunnell interviewed by Host Drew Schlosberg and Co-host Kristen Fogle:
Once Upon a Book Fair…
…encourages literacy …showcases multiple genres, something for everyone …inspires youth …shines a spotlight on local writers …provides a rare meet and greet with published authors …draws people together and celebrates diversity …validates San Diego’s public library programs …creates a unique cultural community event …supports small business …has education, inspiration, and imagination all in one fabulous place!
More about the Treasure Island Book Fair:
The festival itself is free. There will be food vendor(s) at the event, including a taco truck (outside), a non-alcoholic “Bar” with Mocktails and soft drinks (inside), and a coffee/pancake/ice cream vendor (inside).
A festival might not be complete without a Cosplay contest too!- It’s a community dress-up party! Whether one dresses in character garb or even as a pirate – let your Cosplay character chime in!
Are you saying “ARRRR” to yourself yet? The theme of this year’s event is Treasure Island, where pirates and scavenger hunts abound!
There will be prizes given away such as books, merchandise, art and more! Plus author panels!
Q & A with Tanya Ross, Young Adult Author and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Left to right: Tanya Ross, Author and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
SJF: How did Once Upon a Book Fair get started?
TR: An author friend of mine and I put our heads together one day a couple of years ago because there were no book fairs up in the North County of San Diego. We wanted to give local authors a chance to come together in a place outside of San Diego proper where the fees for a table would be affordable. We launched our brainchild the first year (2022) in Grape Day Park with 25 authors and the assistance of the Escondido Public Library. Once we saw we could do it, we went forward.
SJF: Is Once Upon a Book Fair a non-profit?
TR: On its own–not yet. It’s possible it will be eventually. This year for the first time it is a certified business with the city of Escondido. Right now it’s not fiscally possible to launch it as a non-profit. That being said, it is not a money-making venture for me. We will most likely break even with the expenses. It’s more of a passion project than a capital raising venture. I don’t want to make money on the backs of other authors.
SJF: Do you do this alone?
TR: No. Even though I am the CEO, I have a wonderful committee of ten other authors who help me with ideas and implementation. We meet monthly to discuss how we’re doing with the progress of each unique assignment. I wouldn’t be able to do this without them.
SJF: Why should people attend?
TR: You should attend if you love books! We’ll have over 70 authors to discover, chat with, and celebrate. We’ll have activities for kids, a scavenger hunt, prizes, and author panels. Everyone who attends can come in costume (cosplay), and we’ll have a couple of contests for the best outfits. There will be food and beverages! Our theme is Treasure Island, so pirates will be about.
SJF: How do I find it?
TR: The fair will be at the San Marcos Community Center, right where the library and city hall are: 3 Civic Center Drive in San Marcos. It’s an all day event, from 10 until 5.
SJF: Is there a cost?
TR: The fair is FREE.
SJF: Will you be there with your own books?
TR: Yes! I can’t wait to share my award-winning dystopian Tranquility Series with those who attend. My characters are waiting in the wings for you!
SJF: How can people get involved?
TR: We are under the non-profit umbrella of a group called Fractured Atlas, so you may donate to us through that organization. The best part is that donating to them benefits us and allows you to write off your donation while advertising your products. Write to me at tanyarossauthor@gmail.com for more information.
SPEAKERS include:
Bryan Cantrell, an award-winning writer of novels, screenplays, and comics as well as being and executive producer of feature films is our 12:00 speaker. Bryan also is an entrepreneur owning brands in fashion, beauty and the outdoor industry. He was on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2018 with his business partner pitching their Radiate Portable Campfire securing a deal with Shark, Robert Herjavec. He now resides in California with his family pursuing a love of writing, surfing and skateboarding. He’ll be sharing amazing pirate lore and all the good stuff about his latest novel, Pirates of the Wild West, A Time Travel Sea Adventure with a Western Twist, all about the infamous pirates of the Caribbean who meet secretly on Blackbeard’s prized ship. A time vortex whisks them away to the year 1873.
and…
Bestselling author Cathy Scott, a Los Angeles Times and New York Times bestselling author, veteran crime writer, investigative journalist, will be in person for our 1 p.m. slot. She will discuss her career as a reporter for local San Diego newspapers to writing true crime books such as: The Murder of Biggie Smalls,The Killing of Tupac Shakur, Murder of a Mafia Daughter,Freeway Rick Ross, and The Millionaire’s Wife.
Update! As of September 27, 2024, the proposed Author line-up includes:
Audio link above is provided to listen to Ep6: The Nurse Who Acts and Creatively Cooks Up Recipes! Meet Bonnie Antonini, BSN, RN, Food Blogger – “Vegetarian Cooking for Carnivores Blog” and Nursing and the Arts Podcast Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Join us on today’s 6th episode of the Nursing and the ArtsPodcast for an informative and entertaining discussion with our guest Bonnie Antonini, BSN, RN.
Watch the Nursing and the Arts Podcast (above)
Ep6: The Nurse Who Acts and Creatively Cooks! Meet Bonnie Antonini, BSN, RN and Host Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
Show Notes:
About Bonnie Antonini, BSN, RN, Actor and Food Blogger
In this podcast, Bonnie exudes lots of positive energy as she tells her story to host Susan J. Farese (that’s me)!
Bonnie and Susan met as actors portraying oncology clinic nurses on the set of “Men of a Certain Age” (the episode aired on 2011).
Bonnie had some experience as a Candy Striper during her teenage years with her best friend. She definitely did not want to be a nurse at first. Why? Because she didn’t want to give shots! So, Bonnie started out as an actor and after attending some college as a Psychiatric Tech (and finding out she’d ultimately need to give injections) she switched to nursing!
She is a BSN graduate at Sacramento State. She worked in Cardiac/Telemetry and then was a stay at home Mom to raise her two sons. Her husband is an Anesthesiologist.
She values nursing in that nursing has a variety of different specialties and change.
Bonnie started blogging years ago. She has written over 250 recipes on her blog named “Vegetarian Cooking for Carnivores Blog”!- The tag lines- “Recipes so good even a carnivore would love them”! Also “An ex-carnivore’s struggle to eat vegetarian in a creative, delicious, and satisfying way”!
For fun the entire family enjoys hockey- the family loves to attend (and discuss games)! She also spends lots of time (for instance, up to 3 hours) on phone calls to their son in the military.
Bonnie has always had great concern for the prevalence of obesity and diabetes and started her blog to promote healthy eating. She emphases that many people eat out and spend lots of money – where they could start cooking and eating at home with her recipes from her blog.
Some of her acting roles were in Ford vs Ferrari, Smash (and more – Check out her IMDB link below)!
Bonnie’s words of wisdom about nursing: Nursing is a fabulous career, helps others, makes a difference in other’s lives, makes a good living and if burnout happens, one can change course and/or specialties.
Bonnie texted me this comment after this episode posted: “Just an interesting (and sad) statistic that recently came out: 74.4% of all Americans are overweight or obese. I wish I’d known this statistic for our podcast”.
Thank you so much Bonnie! It’s a pleasure “seeing” you again after 13 years on set!
About Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.
Susan has diverse health care experience including military and civilian nursing with clinical, administration/management, staff development, research and consulting roles.
SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides services including Public Relations, Publicity, Marketing, Websites, Filmmaking, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Nurse Consulting services.
If you are a nurse (or know of a nurse) who would like to be considered for a “Nursing and the Arts” Podcast interview, please reach out to Susan by email: info@sjfcommunications.com.
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PLUS: Save the date: August 6, 2024 in San Diego for:
“Stepping Up Together – A Film Event for THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES”
THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES
Photo by Marci Krown – With Permission
Stepping Up Together
– A Film Event for
THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES
Our SJF Communications client, colleague (and friend), Marci Krown, is truly a force! She is a San Diego filmmaker (director/producer), actor and amazing disability awareness advocate. Marci is certainly “stepping up” and going places with her upcoming Krown Family Films feature documentary – THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES!
THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES follows the struggles and successes of three people with leg limb loss that are wanting to participate and/or compete in sports.
THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES will showcase that those with leg limb loss have learned that there is life without limits. It will focus on their abilities, not their disabilities. We follow the struggles and successes of these three people that include Carson Fox, a teen wanting to continue to play on his high school’s football team and join his track team; James Dixon of Absolute Motivation whose purpose is to thrive in life and to get others to do the same; and Beatriz Hatz, a Paralympic Athlete aspiring to obtain a spot on her USA Track Team going to the Paris Paralympics.
The company befree was started by two women, Nicole Puzzo and Joanne Dicamillo. They’ve developed a product called, “ZipOns”, a functional adaptive clothing solution for those with limited mobility. Joanne stated “We are proud to sponsor and support this amazing documentary about the importance of athletics for amputees and the challenges they face.”
Amplitude is a magazine and newsletter with an incredible resource directory for Amputees. Based in Loveland, Colorado, Larry Borowsky is Editor-in- Chief. The tag line is “Today’s amputees are living more dynamic lives than ever before. Amplitude tells their stories.“
Tickets are $60/person – and must be purchased online. The link includes ticket and silent auction bidding information. (Note: You can still bid/donate even if you are not local to San Diego or do not attend)!
WHEN?: Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 6 pm – 9:30 pm (PST) WHERE?: Encore Event Center (8253 Ronson Rd., San Diego, CA 92111) HOW?: Here’s the TICKET LINK: https://new.biddingowl.com/AmputeeSports.
For more information: info@KrownFamilyFilms.com
Here is the Q & A Susan J Farese and Marci Krown:
Marci Krown, With Permission
SJF: What inspired you to make THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES Documentary?
MK: Back in 1995, I started working for the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games. Because I had such a love of sports, I wanted to get involved with a sports organization in some facet. Little did I know that this experience would be the best in my life! My perceptions of those who were disabled weren’t accurate. I didn’t really understand how someone that was a leg amputee, had a vision impairment or even was paralyzed, could compete in sports effectively. By the end of the 1 ½ years, I truly embraced the Power of the Human Spirit. I remembered this experience when it came time for me to produce my first Documentary Feature. I did some more research and found that still, non-disabled people had unrealistic views of those with disabilities. And some of those with disabilities are afraid to come out of hiding. In addition, those with disabilities still weren’t aware of all the resources in place for them in which they could thrive. I decided I was going to share some stories and use sport to get people comfortable in understanding those with disabilities better.
SJF: Such amazing insight Marci, thank you for sharing that.
SJF: Who are some of the cast in the film?
MK: Some of the people in the film include a teen boy that lost his leg to cancer and wanting to get back to his high school football team and learn track; a middle-aged man that was born with a congenital limb loss use his loss to find his purpose and help others similar to himself; and the third person is a early 20’s Paralympian who was trying to obtain a spot on her US Track and Field Team going to the 2024 Paris Paralympics in August. In addition, I have non-profit organizations in this story that cater to providing resources to the Amputee Community.
SJF: They all sound like inspiring stories from your cast.
SJF: What do you think were the biggest challenges making this film?
MK: Challenges with the film : Finding San Diego Amputees that were comfortable sharing their stories to interview. Also, since I started making the film in October 2022, I have lost my Father-in-Law, got Covid, lost my Father, Mother-in-law and got Covid again in June. The challenge of sticking to a timeline feeling exhausted with illness and grief certainly made it difficult. And yet, having this project allowed a distraction for me to focus on and having something to complete. I had to stop several times for a period just to take care of my self and let this project go, which was difficult.
SJF: So much loss and grief as well as experiencing Covid. Yes, self-care is paramount.
SJF: How did you work with your cinematographer to capture the images you wanted?
MK: I must have interviewed over 12 Cinematographers. The one I have now, Viken, stood out due to his artistic endeavors, his ability to film with a specific budget and knowledge of filming a documentary. I had an outline and based on that and with his input on shots, we got the filming done. It was also important to me that we got along as I knew I was in for a long haul in spending days filming. You want to get along with that person, especially since I knew I would be traveling with him to Indiana.
I shot the film in Chula Vista, Orange County and Indiana. Because I had more people to interview in other cities, I couldn’t afford to fly my Cinematographer and myself all over the place. I did end up zooming some interviews because I felt these people were important to the story.
SJF: What lessons have you learned re: the topic of disabled amputee athletes?
MK: What I have learned in my research is that there are more resources than I thought for Amputees. While doing research for the film in deciding who to interview, I came across so many organizations. In the last 1 ½ years, I attended two National Conferences and 6 major sports events for adaptive athletes. It’s really amazing that everyone is on the same page and are looking to provide a better community, more education and a way to improve the health of the adaptive athletes, whether they are children, teens or adults. I’ve also learned more about discrimination of those with disabilities. I’ve also learned that insurance hasn’t provided coverage for a sports prosthetic for Amputees wanting to compete. It has been deemed not medically necessary. There is an organization, So Everybody Can Move, that has helped in getting a grassroot movement going for communities to educate legislation to change this process of providing a covered prosthetic.
SJF: Your commitment and dedication to the topic of disabled amputee athletes is impressive Marci!
SJF: How wide would you like your reach to be with the distribution of this film?
MK: My goal with this film is to share it throughout the United States and some International Countries. In addition to submitting this Documentary to film festivals that specifically deal with films featuring stories of disabled, and sports themes, my goal is to showcase this film in cities that have Adaptive Sports Clubs and Colleges with Adaptive Sports teams and programs. I’d like to be able to have an Educational Distribution, to show to non-profits, government agencies, conferences and corporations. And of course, I’d love to have this film streamed on various platforms. Sports is a great way to introduce adaptive athletes to the community. With the Paralympic Games in just over a month, this film will continue showing people afterwards just how sport has the ability for people to see the “abilities” of Amputees and not their “disabilities”.
SJF: Wishing you the best that your film has lots of distance being screened nationally as well as globally!
SJF: How can we find out more information about Krown Family Films?
MK: Krown Family Films social media sites:
TICKET LINK for Stepping Up Together – A San Diego Film Event for THE POWER OF SPORTS FOR AMPUTEES Documentary: CLICK HERE: https://new.biddingowl.com/AmputeeSports.
Nursing and the Arts is a podcast devoted to Nurses discussing their diverse artistic passions (or endeavors) such as visual arts/photography, journaling, comedy, podcasting, storytelling, writing/poetry, crafting, cooking, dance, theatre, music, film etc.
Nursing and the Arts Trailer by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Hosted by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications info@sjfcommunications.com
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse as the ART and the SCIENCE of being a NURSE”! ~ Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN in POETIC EXPRESSIONS IN NURSING: SHARING THE CARING (2021, 1993)
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NOTE: Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications had a great discussion about Nursing, Poetry, Intuition, Creativity and more on the The Nurse Keith Show Podcast with Keith Carlson, BSN, RN, NC-BC https://nursekeith.com/episode337/.
Keith is a Nurse Career Coach | Podcaster | Freelance Writer | Speaker | Blogger | Influencer – He helps nurses and healthcare professionals create inspired lives and careers!
Here is the information along with the podcast link and show notes:
On episode 337 of The Nurse Keith Show nursing and healthcare career podcast, Keith interviews nurse poet Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications regarding her original book of poetry, “Poetic Expressions in Nursing…Sharing the Caring”, and how poetry and nursing are a natural and inspiring combination for the sharing of stories, feelings, memories, and experiences.
Poetic Expressions in Nursing | The Nurse Keith Show, EPS 337
Susan J. Farese and Jeff Zevely; Photo by Scott Hall
It’s not every day that you (or your book) are featured in a segment with Jeff Zevely of the Zevely Zone on CBS 8 and the CW San Diego (KFMB)!
That’s right! Many thanks to Feature Reporter Jeff Zevely and Photojournalist Scott Hall. Jeff interviewed me about “Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring” (and the hour flew by)!
We discussed my time (eons ago) as a military nurse, glimpsed at several of my ‘vintage’ photos and I had a chance to read some of my poetry from the book.
Here is the clip:
To purchase Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring as an eBook, paperback or Audiobook, here are the links:
Promo for “Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring”
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse, as the art and the science of being a nurse” -Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
“Nursing is an incredibly enriching yet stressful profession and besides being a science, it is truly an art. This second edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring is dedicated to all nurses – past, present, and future. It is a celebration of nursing and a tribute to nurses, especially during this unexpected, unprecedented pandemic. Covid-19 took its toll on nurses during 2020 and hopefully the impact of stress and burnout will be lessened with time and the arts. Poetry can be a therapeutic and cathartic tool for nurses and other caring professions to deal with the angst, stressors or joys that accompany the profession“. – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
Originally published in 1993, Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring now has a 2nd edition and is available online (eBook and paperback, and audiobook).
Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2nd Edition) by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications
Here is the description of the book:
This exciting collection of freeform poetry with over 40 poems by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, is a sharing of both professional and personal thoughts and feelings. Susan is a strong advocate of the creative use of poetry to express the wonderment, frustration, dedication, and the love of nurses for their profession and their patients.
Included is a tribute poem to nurses by Mohan Chilukuri, MD and a bonus section of several of Susan’s Haiku Poems with her nature photography.
Susan invites you to share the passion and the traditions of nursing, and to explore the heart of the professional practice of nursing…sharing and caring.
Susan J. (Felice) Farese, MSN, RN, a native of NJ, received her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree from Widener University and Masters of Science (MSN) from Seton Hall University. Her diversified nursing career includes military and civilian nursing within inpatient outpatient and academic settings- including experience as a clinician, educator, administrator, consultant, and nurse entrepreneur.
E-Book – extended DISCOUNTED price on Kindle eBook: $0.99!
Paperback is also available ($10.99):
Audiobook (narrated by Susan):
Ask me about discounts and giveaways! Please feel free to like, comment and share. Help me to get the word out to nursing community! Nurse have been stressed out and burned out since the pandemic.
Happy Nurses Week 2021 to Nurses: past, present, future and those who support them!
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse, as the art and the science of being a nurse” -Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
One week of celebration, however is not enough! It has indeed been a ‘different’ year. Who would have thought that a pandemic was looming? The stress and burnout for nurses has seemed unsurmountable at times this past year. I am hopeful for nurses to feel resilient and thrive as people receive vaccinations and stay vigilant in social distancing, handwashing, being sensible, etc. We are all too important to take life (and nurses) for granted.
“Nursing is an incredibly enriching yet stressful profession and besides being a science, it is truly an art. This second edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring is dedicated to all nurses – past, present, and future. It is a celebration of nursing and a tribute to nurses, especially during this unexpected, unprecedented pandemic. Covid-19 took its toll on nurses during 2020 and hopefully the impact of stress and burnout will be lessened with time and the arts. Poetry can be a therapeutic and cathartic tool for nurses and other caring professions to deal with the angst, stressors or joys that accompany the profession.” – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
Nurses should be celebrated for all they have done for patients and their families.
Originally published in 1993, my book Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring now has a 2nd edition and is available online (eBook and paperback, and soon to be available as an audiobook).
Special promotion for Nurses Week: the eBook of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2nd Edition) by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications ~ has a DISCOUNTED price on Kindle eBook: $0.99 for Nurses Week and might be extended!
This exciting collection of freeform poetry with over 40 poems by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, is a sharing of both professional and personal thoughts and feelings. Susan is a strong advocate of the creative use of poetry to express the wonderment, frustration, dedication, and the love of nurses for their profession and their patients.
Included is a tribute poem to nurses by Mohan Chilukuri, MD and a bonus section of several of Susan’s Haiku Poems with her nature photography.
Susan invites you to share the passion and the traditions of nursing, and to explore the heart of the professional practice of nursing…sharing and caring.
Susan J. (Felice) Farese, MSN, RN, a native of NJ, received her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree from Widener University and Masters of Science (MSN) from Seton Hall University. Her diversified nursing career includes military and civilian nursing within inpatient outpatient and academic settings- including experience as a clinician, educator, administrator, consultant, and nurse entrepreneur.
This is a special “Extraordinary People Sharing Their Stories” Interview! Plus, March is Women’s History Month and today, March 8th is International Women’s Day. Join me, in reading about and celebrating Kris Diasio.
Kris is Owner of ADD2Life20. I have known Kris since our daughters, (now in their early twenties), were pre-school classmates!
Our daughters (now 22) when they were young!
We bonded then and have kept in touch intermittently over the years. We are both entrepreneurs and love the life with successes, milestones as well as setbacks.
Kris and Susan circa the early 2000’s!
Circa early 2000’s – Kris and Susan with their daughters.Kris Diasio, Courtesy Photo
In September, 2020, Kris had an enormous setback – she lost her home in the Almeda-Talent/Phoenix fire – and she lost everything. I mean everything. Kris is building back her life with an amazing force of resilience, energy, enthusiasm and vigor.
Read about Kris and her journey with Add2Life20, before and since the fire in our interview:
SJF: Kris, it’s so great to reconnect as always! I am so interested in your journey and am absolutely impressed with your resilience. To get started, please tell us about your special education coaching business Add 2 Life 20.
KD: Add2Life20 delivers special education coaching for parents, caregivers and teachers to support students with special educational needs. I specialize in working with challenged students (ages 13-18) to help them overcome learning difficulties and have a successful educational experience. I offer a variety of coaching tools and help them achieve their educational goals and see successful outcomes.
SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha! moments) when creating this new business? If so, please explain.
KD: I was a former Program Manager for Sex Trafficked Teen Girls…I loved my job but once the pandemic hit, I was let go. I had my coaching business prior to this job for twenty years. While I was STAYING HOME AND SAFE, I started looking on LinkedIn. I had this account for three years but did absolutely nothing with it. I was tired of going on other sites and getting nowhere. As I spent more time on LinkedIn, I felt like I had a virtual family. There was so much support offered for those of us looking for employment. I soaked up everything; Zoom, posts, whatever I could get my hands on. I then met my Visibility Coach through LinkedIn and thought, “It’s time to rebuild my Coaching business but ‘virtually’!” That’s when ADD2Life20 was born.
SJF: How did you decide on the business name Add 2 Life 20?
KD: The name came to me two years ago…I didn’t understand WHY then but I will break it down to you.
ADD-Stands for Attention Deficit Disorder but it’s also an ADD to life…many of my students have felt that they are so glad they have this.
So it’s a POSTIVE ADD.
Add2Life…is again a positive situation, not a negative.
The ’20’: I had my coaching business for 20 years and then rediscovered it again in 2020.
So Add2Life20 was born.
SJF: Why/How/When did you decide to start Add 2 Life 20?
KD: My big issue here is, I wanted to work from home and be safe with the pandemic out there.
I knew that the pandemic was seriously affecting students who are struggling with a variety of learning challenges and they would fall through the cracks in their education. In addition, I no longer wanted to work for an organization that didn’t value my health and welfare – that was unacceptable to me. So that’s where I was inspired to start Add2Life20.
SJF: What is your role as a Special Education Coach?
KD: I have taught, inspired and uplifted students diagnosed with AD/HD, Dyslexia and Anxiety/Depression for over 30 years.
*I use both my academic background (MS. SP. ED.) and practical experience to deliver an educational coaching service where I act as a translator between the student and parents in schools.
*I help students learn life and academic skills.
*I help parents navigate the difficult situations of their child’s educational experience.
*I support teachers in bridging the gap to work more successfully with students.
Through my unique and personal coaching style and learning strategies, I help my students greatly improve their grades, self-esteem and social skills in a relatively short period of time. Many of my “graduates” have gone on to successful careers as Scientists, Therapists, Military Personnel, Hairdressers, Technologists and more. I am passionate about inspiring and supporting my students to live a successful life without limits.
What Coaching achieves:
*Students will learn time management.
* Students will be able to forecast and use the calendar efficiently.
*Students will have better retrieval systems, so more homework will get done in a timely manner, and they will have fewer last minute frenzied searches for misplaced assignments.
SJF: What are some of your resources for working with your clients?
Here is a recent podcast interview with Kris on the “Maddie’s Chat Show Podcast” all the way from the U.K.:
SJF: Thank you, that is all incredible. The name ADD 2 Life 20 says it all. To change course a bit, is there anything you’d like to mention about challenges and most recently the tragedy in your life?
KD: Ah yes, the Fire! I can share that the past decade had brought many challenges starting with; divorce, breast cancer, single parenting, the loss of a job, diabetes and then the Fire last September. I realize now that all of that was all a “training wheel” for the Fire.
SJF: You certainly have been through so much the past few years. I saw that you were a part of this video about the devastating Almeda-Talent/Phoenix fire. I am including the video so our readers can see, understand and empathize with you regarding the devastation you endured. https://youtu.be/WqpCHua7pB4
Video about featuring Kris Diasio
KD: Yes, to lose your entire life memories in a fire is brutal…especially if you are a sentimental soul like I am. My neighbors were expecting their first baby when the fire hit. They have it all in front of them though…Baby’s first Christmas ornaments, little hand and footprints from Pre-School, recordings of all the firsts, middle and in between. It’s a bit different when you have a twenty-two year-old, who did all those things.
My parents’ friend shared with me a great idea; have your daughter recreate what you lost! I LOVED the idea and so for Christmas, I received a very familiar handprint inside a ceramic heart…granted it was a 22-year-old handprint but a TREASURE all the same!
Handprint from Kris’s Daughter at age 22 to recreate the one lost in the fire.
It’s about taking private pain and turning it into something positive!
My daughter and I volunteered at her high school’s Health Classes, and shared both of our journey’s with Breast Cancer…taking private pain and turning it into public purpose! The classes were a big hit and we used theatre, humor and education to get our lessons across (and especially for our male students)!
Kris and her daughter
I shared with my daughter before she went off to college, that all the pain she’s been through, will serve her later in life.
Later on, she shared with me that two of her friend’s parents were getting a divorce, and that she was now the adviser. Then, a parent of her college friend got cancer, and again she was able to guide and support them.
While it’s a brutal blow to go through all this trauma, it serves a purpose…oh trust me, I am still walking through four months post-fire but am inspired to write a book about the experience to share with others and want some of the proceeds to go to other fire victims.
Lastly this, the worst part is to recall everything I lost for the insurance company. Just think of your kitchen, the junk drawer, the towels etc. Makes your head blow up, right?! That’s what it’s like to recall everything and the worst part is I am near my limit on what my insurance offered! So all that work, energy and effort and yet I still have 2 bedrooms to cover…I won’t bother with all I lost in the garage.
I love this quote, “I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess!”
I think that’s about hopes and dreams in God’s hands, that’s how I like to hold it.
SJF: If you had to “do it all over again” would you change anything?
KD: This is a tricky one…you can’t say you regret a bad marriage, as you wouldn’t have your child.
What I can say is, I wish that my life was kinder to me, but I wouldn’t change anything as I am who I am because of the past!
I learned and grew and changed for the better. If everything was rosy, I wouldn’t be the compassionate soul I am today.
I know what it’s like to have cancer, diabetes, be a single parent (there should be a medal for all single parents…but OH the skill set you get!) have had to move around that rivals with a military family, and lose a home due to natural disaster.
The blessing in all of this, is that I am relatable, I understand, I can relate to trauma, managing to do things on my own but I also learned how to ask for help.
Something I didn’t share in a previous question is my faith! I am very strong in the Lord and if it weren’t for God, I have no idea what would have happened to me!
If there was anything to change…I think my older self (now) would tell my younger self, “Be easy on yourself, take one day at a time and know God’s got you!”
SJF: A brief history of your education, work positions, etc.
KD: I hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology.
I have been a Program Manager for Sex Trafficked Teen girls and had 18 employees, who did amazing work with these young girls.
My executive team was amazing and I called them the Dream Team. We all worked so well together and I promoted their gifts and talents.
It was incredible to watch and see all the gifts my staff carried out each and everyday, through the good, tough and hard and awesome shifts.
I loved my position and felt born for the role. I adored my work with the girls and was able to witness both growth and graduation success.
My joy has been my self-employment being an AD/HD and Educational Coach. I still keep in touch with my former students and seeing them as young successful adults is so rewarding. They all had challenges but overcame those difficulties and have gone on to some incredible careers. Many have gone on to marry and have families of their own. I could share volumes of how all these former students took their challenges and created something positive from their journey. For now, just know how proud I am of them all!
I have been an Aquatic Fitness Instructor, which has nothing to do with my career but I get to teach adults and that’s been a rewarding experience. I get to hear how they are stronger, have more endurance and increased range of motion. I also love my music selection so we all get moving in the pool and have a wonderful time.
When I was much younger, I started out in retail and held that position from age 16-26. It served me well as I experienced firsthand challenges and it taught me how to operate in business. I was an Assistant Manager at Lady Footlocker and that’s where my interest in working with teens came from.
I would be assisting the part-time employees who were teenagers. My manager loved how well I would work with them it was through that journey I realized I was in the wrong field. So I switched gears and worked with juvenile offender teen Boys. This was my first job in the field of teens. It was a huge change but I loved it! That lead me later to becoming a Child Protection Investigator and Foster Care worker. I learned incredible skills in these positions and mastered the art of investigating. This helped with asking teens about what happened and getting their story on issues.
Interesting story on becoming a CPS worker; my ex-husband at the time was in the military. One of the wives approached me with a tough situation she was facing – she was accused of child abuse and a week before I met her and her family (baby and husband). They were a darling couple from the Deep South. I made a call on this wife’s behalf and I shared that the allegations were inaccurate, and that the family were both nurturing to the infant. I was so good at giving detail that after the phone call I was offered the position and then hired.
That started my journey into working with very challenging children, which lead me to working in another group home, which lead me to focusing on education.
My daughter was born and I wanted to stay home and raise her. I had a part time job at a tutoring center in California, that’s where my business was born.
I didn’t like the curriculum that was being taught and one of my students at this company was getting so frustrated and started to cry. He was a little one and I immediately changed the curriculum and thought to myself, “why don’t you start your own specialized tutoring business?!” and the rest as they say, “is history.”
Another position I held was being a professional organizer. That came from working with one of my student’s parents. I enjoy taking chaos and creating order…it’s one of my gifts and of course, I do that with my students!
I will end with this…we never know when life takes us in interesting journeys and experiences to see where we will end up. Just trust the process and you will get your star and your purpose!
SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?
KD: When I had my daughter, I became her paparazzi! I love taking photos and can pre-anticipate just about any shot at a birthday party, dance, prom etc.
Granted, my daughter is well passed all these things, but other people have children and can “capture” the moment like a boss!
The ‘Go-Bag’ with sentimental scrapbooks that Kris made over the years
My true love, and I have done this for 21 years, is scrapbooking! It was awful losing all my supplies (due to the fire), let alone 20 albums, but I have received many gifts to replenish my lost supplies. The big thing now, is to create virtual albums, and while I get this, after the fire, this is NOT me. I love manipulating the ribbons, paper and various embellishments! Last year I completed 6 Albums, while staying home and safe. With my Dad being a CERT leader in his neighborhood, he encouraged me early last year to create a Go Bag in the event of an emergency and I set aside 6 scrapbooks in this Go Bag. As I was evacuating my house, I grabbed 3 more albums and so grateful I had them. I had to literally STOP my brain weeks after the Fire from saying,” Why didn’t you grab…” I told myself…stay THANKFUL and you’re good!
I also love movies! I’m the one who catches what they call “goofs” in a movie, I can see if there was a candle in the background in one shot and the next shot it’s not there. Trust me, it’s an annoying skill but excellent in my line of work with AD/HD students. I mainly love Romantic Comedy but also love Mysteries and enjoyed Sherlock!
My passions are working with students and seeing them become incredible young men and women! Two of them are serving our country, I am very proud to say. The extraordinary measures my students have taken to be successful are incredible!
SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.
KD: I was born and raised in NYC. It was an interesting life there. I learned to have eye’s in the back of my head and always sat in the back of the bus to observe people. A huge education for me!
My mother was a career Mom, and my Dad wasn’t much in the picture. Dad, I found out had mental illness but I didn’t realize that until my older years. My parents divorced when I was 13 and off I was on my own and learning about life – the good, the bad, the unusual. That was the makings of a great coach later in life!
My grandparents were my rocks in life and named my daughter after one of my grandmothers!
It wasn’t all doom, while I was getting my education in “life” my mother and I moved to California when I was 16 and life was much better.
I attended San Jose State University and joined the ROTC program. I loved the structure and while that was only a small moment in my life, it gave me the structure and discipline I so needed.
Living in the Bay Area was wonderful and I had many wonderful experiences there. Made great friends, my career was coming together, obtained a Master’s Degree and had my daughter.
Eleven years ago, I moved to Oregon and have been here since. I love Southern Oregon and again, have made friends but the experiences were a bit different as I mentioned above.
SJF: Where can we find you on the web? Website, social media etc.
KD: My website is; Add2LIfe20.com, there you can view what my business and services. I am also on LinkedIn and that also gives details of what my business offers as well as my background.
I also want to share that I have a wonderful Virtual Classroom and am excited to share this with my students!
SJF: Do you have any recommendations re: coping with the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools?
KD: COVID-19 -I used this as a time to catch up, organize, exercise, scrapbook, and reaching out to friends whom I haven’t talked to in forever.
I also rediscovered my business and dove right into making that happen. Decorated my house…yes, this is the one that burned.
If some people are wondering how I had time? I am an empty-nester and not married. I had time to do all of this.
What I learned is to be STILL, my prayer life is super important to me and would start my day with readings and prayer and time with God.
Being gentle with yourself is key, if you don’t complete something, don’t become unraveled…just pick it up tomorrow, if the schedule allows. We stress about all kinds of little things and have heard it say, “We major in the minors.” Not a good rule to follow.
COVID for me, was about learning to STEP BACK AND TAKE A MINUTE. Granted, that “minute” was 12 months ago – but it’s a minute in the scheme of a life time!
SJF: How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?
KD: I was laid off due to COVID but it brought my self-employment back into my life. So I am very grateful for that.
My daughter came down with COVID and as she lives 3 hours away from me. She had only a mild case, so I was extremely grateful for that one.
Staying home and staying safe lead me back into scrapbooking again and organizing my townhouse and I really had a good time before the fire.
The biggest struggle is to be a flaming extravert and stay home and stay safe. My crafts and some great music, kept me in Happy Land! I guess you can say in my career and in life, I have good coping skills.
SJF: Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?
KD: I would say the people who inspired me were both my Grandparents. They had good marriages and they were so incredibly kind and loving towards me. They were there for me and I absolutely loved visiting them. One set of Grandparents were Italian, and OHHH THE FOOD…I am so sorry that I didn’t get recipes from my Grandmother, but she could whip up gourmet meals like nothing!
In the AM, I would hear my Grandparents talk Italian and that was really cool, they didn’t think I was listening but I did. I had no clue what they were talking about, but I figured out later it was to be confidential as they didn’t want me to hear what they were saying. My other set of Grandparents were in the Midwest and completely had different experiences there. Still kindness and grace where there and my other Grandmother made incredible meals but I learned baking from her! Both sets of Grandparents, were my anchors in life and set a standard that I later held in my adult life.
SJF: Favorite quotes?
KD: “Think you can, think you can’t, either way, you’ll be right.” Henry Ford. And “DO what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Theodore Roosevelt
SJF: Who (celebrity) would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your business?
KD: Barbara Walters would be my pick to have lunch with and share my business! I would also pick Tom Hanks. I think his personality would appreciate what I do and have done in my career!
SJF: Significant moments?
KD: A) When I became a parent! It was great, thrilling and a little scary to know I am solely responsible for this little darling girl! That baby will be 23 soon and she’s done really well in her life and navigating adulting really well.
B) Cancer; Oh man oh man, was that a HUGE wake-up call for my life. This was the time that I had to really focus on myself!
My focus was on my marriage at the time, my child, work and everyone else in my family…then Cancer came knocking on my sweet door.
I learned self-care and basically changed my life. I also appreciate everything small and tiny…gratitude in a BIG WAY. Through this event, both my daughter and I taught Breast-Cancer Awareness classes for four years in all of the Health Classes at my daughter’s high school. We both gained an enormous amount from that experience.
C) September 8, 2020…The Fire; Home burnt to the ground…nothing but ashes!
Kris Diasiao…after the Fire
Since that was only 5 months ago, it’s still a work in progress. I will be writing a book on my experience and sharing what a REAL GO-BAG should look like.
The ‘Go-Bag’
A back-pack with tiny toiletries does not a GO-BAG make! I can no longer look at a fireplace with peace, but if the flames are small it’s okay.
There are certain fire smells that are okay…like that of a fire place but there’s a completely different smell when homes are burning.
I am grateful that I left fifteen minutes before my house caught fire. My former student came by only fifteen minutes AFTER I left to check and see if I was okay, and he shared that the back of my house was on fire. Gratefully, I got out of there and was spared seeing my house on fire, even though the next day I saw a video that showed otherwise.
People came with a tidal-wave of support for me; my high school friends, relatives, literally people out of the woodwork came and supported me. Even more gratitude here, I think everyone else had a sense of how severe the situation was verses where my trauma-brain was at at that time. I live gratitude everyday and am slowly building up some of what I have lost. I shifted from having a DVD collection to purchasing streamed movies…less clutter and I can watch my movies on any device! Something the younger group knows vs. us! Going lighter on paper and there are more tools on the computer which is linked to the Cloud!
Fire Humor; When people asked if I have this or that…I say,”Yup, it’s in the Cloud…I just can’t access it! LOL”
A tiny piece of my book:
What to say to someone who has lost a house to a Fire? “I can’t even imagine.” That’s right…you have no idea!
Bring a solution to the Fire Victim, “Can I bring you lunch tomorrow?” Be as specific as you can when offering something, because we can’t even think about our new reality.
What NOT to say,” Well, you can replace items…the key thing is you are okay.” This one is really bad, and you think I can purchase a tiny footprint of my daughter when she was 1?
Baby book for Kris’ Daughter
Or how about ALL the Mother’s Day cards my daughter ever made me? Or the two bins that had all of her best-of-the best of schooling, report cards, awards, letters to Santa…yah, they don’t sell that at Walmart! There’s a thousand other items like Baby’s First Christmas ornament, very specialized, all the Christmas ornaments she made for me in Elementary School…that’s right…won’t find that at Macy’s. Or how about my Grandfather’s military uniform…not on Amazon! Also don’t say, “What do you need?” I laughed so hard when I heard that…again, ask, “Would you like a gift card to your favorite store?” Bring solutions, not questions. We are in trauma-brain, my list would have been like this: bandages, duck tape, bra’s, underwear, Q-tips, mascara…” We need everything…so bring SPECIFICS to the conversations.
Another note; Please don’t share YOUR fire story…this is not the time to think you could possibly know what we are going through. You might feel it’s a way of connecting with us but it just makes us upset as we need to tell OUR story, not hear YOURS. So listening to how you Grandma lost everything in the fire really doesn’t do it for us. Wait for a year before you share that story.
INSURANCE; This is a God-Send BUT…You better have the time and the concentration to write down all that was lost. Here are some things you will need; item, where purchased, serial number (my personal favorite! LOL!) how long you’ve had the item and describe the item. Oh for those of you who think you have it covered by taking pictures and video…NOPE, that photo or video is for YOU. You still have to write it all down. No off-the-hook for you. It’s a gut wrenching experience. Remember when you take a photo of your couch, the Content person doesn’t know if that couch is $800 or $8000.
The wonderful idea my parents friends had was to RECREATE some of those special items I lost in the fire. I suggested this to my daughter about the recreation and she purchased a heart shaped plaster wall hanging where she put her 22-year old hand print in. There you go…a replica of her handprint at age two was made! That was the BEST gift…and what do I care that she’s a grown up…the sentiment was there and I love it! Creativity is key and it’s healing and fun!
SJF: Where/How do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?
KD: I mentioned how my daughter and I took private pain and turned it into public purpose and talked about the journey through Breast Cancer. While we were teaching our BC classes in Health Classes, we also participated in Relay for Life.
Here are some photos from ‘Relay for Life’
I was a Co-Captain for Relay and my Co-Captain Leslie handled our Team, who were Breast Cancer Survivors. I handled the Students, who were going to participate in the 24 hour Relay. So my daughter and I recruited 25-40 students for this event during our classes, during the school year. I realized, I needed help and acquired three more students who demonstrated true leadership ability during the first Relay. In addition to my daughter, we had four amazing leaders to run Relay. I got the Dream Team in place during the 2nd year of Relay, so they were quite seasoned in what to do during this event. I trained my Dream Team for four months on how to handle students during Relay. The Dream Team was able to successfully forecast any challenges that would arise. On the day of Relay, both me and my Co-Captain Leslie, watched in awe as these students ran things. My Dream Team had to work on scheduling, posting different students at different events through out the day. Always have accountability every hour on where these students were, who was on break, who was working where etc. The Dream Team managed all the in’s and outs of this event and would check in with me hourly on the various activities. The students participated in walking for our team and other fun events, and working specific stations, including doing bathroom duty.
It was a huge success for four years and I was so proud of all the students who participated in this event, especially, the Dream Team!!
SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?
KD: This is simple; PULL AWAY FROM YOUR DEVICES and realize that Social Media is NOT always correct. Get back out into nature! TEEN CHALLENGE; For one day, leave your phone at home! That’s right…1 whole day…then they can see what life was like when we were young:)
SJF: Tell us some of your thoughts on Motherhood!
Kris and her daughter at 2+ years old
KD: Motherhood – Enjoy the little years! While you are thinking during the temper tantrums…”I can’t wait until they grow up, so I can have a real conversation with them!” They really won’t be too interested in what you have to say then. I see the little years as the “Wonder Years.” Granted, I had fantastic “little years” experience, so I’m somewhat tainted!
Once they hit 18…start asking them questions! Like, “So how would handle that?” Put more of the solution in their court than in yours. As your child learns and grows, sit back and listen to their view of the world. Let them be the expert…remember they have had a completely different experience growing up in a different time than you did! The greatest moment for me, is when I have watched my daughter coach her Gymnastics Team! She’s a MASTER in her field…and only 22! To see your child become successful, to see your child navigate in a relationship, is wonderful! They have to figure it out. If you hear something that freaks you out…let THEM figure it out!! This does not apply if there is danger or high risk, then parent away! I’m talking when they think they can do some things and YOU know better…let them figure it out. We didn’t have anyone to really slow the brakes on us…by letting go, they grow up! Cherish the short time you have with your adult child as they grow older and realize they are doing the best they can. The good thing is, when they leave the nest…for the most part, they LOVE coming home, and the memories flow and I even heard from some of my friends who are Grandmothers, that your adult children will actually apologize to you for being so selfish! Don’t hold your breath or wait on that one…if it comes, it’s a bonus:)
SJF: How do you handle loss?
KD: Loss; that’s a tough one. Each of us has our own coping skills on how we handle ourselves during Trauma/Loss.
For me, TAKE IT EASY…be kind to myself!
Realize that people are doing the best they can…even if they annoy you to no-end!
Each day brings different things but hold on to FAITH, NEVER GIVE UP…the miracle might be just around the corner…I have waited and the miracle did come.
I have walked through, Divorce, Breast Cancer, Single Parenthood and the loss of a Home to a Fire…I refuse to be an EMPTY SHELL person! Gratitude is a MUST, and I hold to that daily. I have heard it say,” Cracks are where the Grace of God shine through!” So shine, grieve, cry, get mad but don’t let anger get the last word!
Be extremely gentle with yourself, take naps, power down, walk, exercise, dance and call someone who you haven’t talked to in awhile.
You will want to PLOW through it all…there’s only one way to deal with pain…GO THROUGH IT, in order to get to the other side of WELLNESS!
SJF: Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER???
KD: After COVID; I want to take my daughter to Central California and stay at one of our favorite places called Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo or as the locals call it SLO!
As my business starts doing well, I want to go to England, as I have so many new friends through LinkedIn!! I’m excited about that experience!
Honestly, I just can’t wait to go the beach, be in a crowd, without having heart-failure about COVID! Be out and about with peace and serenity is fine by me!
SJF: To sum it up, is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
KD: One more thing…The song “I’m Still Standing’ by Elton John really resonated with me and says it all!
SJF: Absolutely, that song is spot on…definitely! Thank you Kris, it’s truly been a pleasure. All the best in 2021 and beyond!
SJF: Why/How did you decide to write Journeys with Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media?
BJ: People kept asking me, after I mentioned that I was retired, “what do you do or what did you?” I always answered, “I’m a writer”. Many would follow with “What have you written?”
I had been toying with a few paragraphs, so then I started saying, “I’m semi-retired, working on a memoir.”
Here is an example of letting imagination be partly driven by external forces. These fans of Jimmy Carter and Walter Cronkite, though dying off, provided a platform for my story. I didn’t mean to be at the center of American political and cultural life but a journalist can have that serendipity.
If you have modern information technology and talented colleagues, a first draft of your story can be whipped up in about two years including finding a solid publisher with a stable of intelligent editors and designers. Subsequent drafts will benefit from trusted advance readers, including some who think the completed final first draft needs more substance, except for the brilliant energy-oriented lawyer who noted a lack of rigor—He said the book could be divided into three parts: an analysis of the Carter Presidency, a study of modern telecommunications policy & the Presidency and my friends and others I had encountered. Though not denying my right to name names, he was quite obviously miffed at being left out. Go back to the drawing board!, he counseled.
SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha! moments) while writing your memoir? If so, please explain.
BJ: While writing, the concept of “flow” seemed to kick in as I was very comfortable remembering earlier life-episodes. In fact, one post-publication reader asked if I had used a “diary” with notes because details seemed to flow as I wrote. This discovery of useful memory was a pleasant surprise.
SJF: How did you decide on the title and decide to find a publishing company vs. self-publishing??
BJ: As loyal readers will attest, here is the book and I take full responsibility for factual errors. The solid publisher, John Koehler, wanted to use the Carter cover in part for marketing. I had no better idea.
SJF: Tell us about your background in the media and in politics
BJ: After graduate school (M.S., Journalism, Graduate School, Columbia University), I was hired as an Intern/Writer at NBC News and after a few months in the Newsroom at NYC Headquarters was assigned as Writer/Editor in Washington, DC. Their top stars, such as David Brinkley and Nancy Dickerson would present their copy for radio news (“hourlies) and television inserts. Left their own styles but occasionally did find factual errors which they were always glad to correct. During this period was often assigned as field producer at Capitol Hill gallery and back-up at other news making locations in DC. After accepting an overnight assignment monitoring audio feeds from NASA early Apollo Program came to attention of CBS news team covering moon landing effort and was hired as Associate Producer there. Subsequently became Producer (for Walter Cronkite) in coverage of Apollo 11. After ten years in broadcast journalism was asked by Jimmy Carter to help as Television Advisor in his nascent presidential campaign.
Barry Jagoda with President Jimmy Carter in the Oval Office – Courtesy Photo – Barry Jagoda
SJF: Tell us about your role in politics as Presidential media advisor
BJ: Carter wanted help understanding role of TV in presidential nominating politics and general election, though he was not interested in someone who would change his style and manner of presentation. After I said I would only advise him of effect of his words on news coverage, by networks and major print publications, he said I could be helpful and told senior media advisor, Jody Powell, to invite me aboard the campaign. After the successful election of 1976 I was named Special Assistant to the President, serving in the White House focusing on media and cultural relations. Eventually I had a philosophical difference with top campaign advisors (including powerful candidate spouse, Rosalynn Carter) who thought my work was giving Carter “overexposure” instead of focusing on a few cardinal issues. Moving to the National Security Council, I served there for seven months, but did not participate in Carter’s 1980 unsuccessful re-election campaign.
SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.
BJ: My parents, both immigrants from Eastern Europe (part of the massive inflow between 1880 and 1920) were hard working and successful. Mother, who spoke no English upon arrival in USA from Ukraine, quickly mastered elementary and secondary education and went on to receive a medical degree (pediatric chiropody) from Case/Western Reserve University. Father, a serial entrepreneur, had a grocery business in affluent part of otherwise industrial Youngstown, Ohio. After being forced to move to warmer climes (first Phoenix, then Houston) he started small markets catering to shift workers from emerging petrochemical plants. They settled in post-WWII GI bungalows near stores. Eventually parents moved to districts of Houston where schooling was an improvement. This had a profound effect on me, as I moved forward with classmates in journalism and debate at one of Houston’s top high schools, Bellaire. For college, though accepted at some top private universities, enrolled at cost-effective University of Texas.
Karen and Barry Jagoda – Courtesy Photo
SJF: If you had to write the book over again, would you change anything?
BJ: A re-written book might include more information on differences between legitimate media and fake expressions, particularly in an election year. Thus, I would try to provide more analysis of difference between legitimate media and fake social media, especially from my experience and perspective from years of work in journalism and, more recently, in use of legitimate social media.
SJF: A brief history of your education, media and political positions/teaching appointments published articles, etc.
BJ: After graduate school, I was hired by NBC News, then CBS News to cover science and politics of moon landing. This evolved into coverage of the Watergate scandals for which I shared in an Emmy Award.
SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?
BJ: When I have a chance to relax, I enjoy the sports of golf and squash racquets.
SJF: Anything you’d like to mention about Watergate? Kennedy in Texas? Apollo? Emmy award?
BJ: From my memoir one can see a photo of the Emmy Award, press credentials for President Kennedy’s fatal trip to Texas in 1963 and photos signed by Apollo astronauts reflecting on my coverage of those events.
SJF: Where can we find you on the web? Website, social media etc.
BJ: I maintain a website (BarryJagoda.com) where those photos are easily accessible. Less useful for my expression is the Twitter account and the Linked-In that are available in my name. The best way I communicate with others is through email, where I am readily available via <Barry@barryjagoda.com>.
SJF: Any recommendations for us to journal or document what we are going through with Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools?
BJ: When I anticipate a sense of stress or anxiety upcoming (mainly due to the Covid-19 Pandemic) I find “breathing exercise” to be a regular source of relief.
SJF: How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?
BJ: The Pandemic has forced me to be very careful about meeting with or encountering others without following the recommended tools of mask wearing, social distancing and trying to stay at home as much as possible.
SJF: Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?
BJ: I am reminded about these safety measures—and other common-sense applications—by my spouse, Karen Jagoda, who is a role model and an inspiration.
SJF: Favorite quotes?
BJ: At some point I favored the expression “practice makes perfect,” but in maturity I have chosen a variation, “practice makes improvement.” A short way of pointing to the inspiration I’ve had from Karen is by attention to the words in dedication to her of this book: “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
SJF: Who would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your book?
BJ: In addition to a long lunch to discuss the memoir with President and Mrs. Carter, it would be useful to compare notes with Professor Douglas Brinkley and other scholars who have given serious thought to their lives, including accomplishments and shortcomings.
SJF: Life hurdles? Successes?
BJ: After formal education I realized my shortcomings in mathematics and computational sciences, but was gratified to have gained skills in public speaking and general social interaction.
SJF: Three significant/pivotal moments in your life?
BJ: My parents favored extreme “left-wing” social change and when I realized that often brought more trouble than success, I became more moderate in political opinion. After choosing journalism as a career approach I left behind advocacy but later, pivotally, realized one could combine fact seeking with moderate political expression.
SJF: Fears?
BJ: I fear unchecked governmental power and, simultaneously I worry about a failure to use the levers of government to seek improvement in the general human condition.
SJF: Recurring dreams/ Usual dreams?
BJ: From time-to-time I worry about human catastrophes, such as earth quakes, and a general failure to act in ways that will modify the harmful effects of climate change. The weakness of humanity to observe and address problems sometimes leads me to have nightmares, mostly overcome in a startling awaking.
SJF: Strongest asset? What would you like to work on/improve?
BJ: I am a good listener but would like to improve on that trait. And, moving too fast—simulating the speed of light—makes one see less brightly!
SJF: Where/How do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?
BJ: Though I try to see how I can give back to my fellows, and to the general community, this is an area that requires concentration and improvement.
SJF: Any regrets in life?
BJ: Being readily more selfless by focusing on helping my fellow man is a real shortcoming that, I try to remind myself, needs focus and hard work.
SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?
BJ: The younger generation seems even more self-oriented that my own group of “baby boomers” and pre-boomers.
SJF: Funny/humorous (appropriate) stories in media or politics?
BJ: The book, Presidential Campaigns, by Professor Paul F. Boller cites hundreds of laugh-filled moments in politics, including several where I am the butt of the situation. I heartily recommend this volume for many hours of humor.
SJF: How do you handle loss?
BJ: Loss is often the result of misfortune and, therefore, should not be taken personally, though this awareness may only mitigate the pain.
SJF: Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER???
BJ: I have traveled the world as a journalist and political assistant, including having more than just a passing stop or two. Longer stays, of course, always been more informative and rewarding. These days, while desk bound by the Pandemic, I think of going back to some places I’ve enjoyed the most—particularly the Hawaiian Islands and the Adriatic coast and islands—but to more intriguing locations including Madagascar and New Zealand. Having the responsibility to share in the caring of a very active canine, a Mini Schnauzer named Timothy, is probably as much of a snag for travel as anything else.
SJF: What has been the most valuable lesson in your life?
BJ: The most valuable lesson I’ve had would be learning to appreciate the many qualities that others can bring when and where I frequently fall short.
SJF: Many thanks Barry, such a pleasure to learn more about you.
Book Details: Journeys With Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media
The book is available at Amazon and wherever books are sold: