Shine: Life Perspectives from a Bespoke Jeweler

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of The Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher sits down with Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in Judo and an MMA champion, to discuss her incredible journey of resilience, transformation, and purpose. Beyond her athletic achievements, Kayla opens up about her life as a single mother, her adoption of her niece and nephew, and the profound lessons she’s learned about love, f...

In this introspective episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Betcher delves into the symbolism and profound meaning behind "Lightness," a ring crafted from a single, unbroken piece of laboratory-grown diamond. This remarkable piece of jewelry serves as both a testament to modern craftsmanship and a metaphor for the pursuit of authenticity and self-realization. 

"Lightness" tells the deeply moving story of a man's journey of self...

In this heartfelt episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher sits down with retired Judge John Olson to discuss his remarkable journey from a life marked by social conservatism in Massachusetts to finding peace and authenticity in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. John shares his experiences as a United States Bankruptcy Judge, the challenges and triumphs he faced in his personal life, and his journey toward living openly and hone...

In this episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher delves into the story behind "The Distraction Ring," a remarkable thumb ring designed to unlock creativity and calm the restless mind. This thoughtful piece combines artistry with function, featuring independently rotating sections that create a rhythmic clicking sound and a texture that invites tactile engagement. Daniel explores how this ring serves as a gentle prompt to...

In this captivating episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher sits down with acclaimed poet and creative coach Mark McGuinness to explore the profound intersection of poetry, creativity, and self-discovery. Mark, a poet with a successful coaching practice and host of the A Mouthful of Air podcast, delves into how poetry shapes his worldview, balances his creative pursuits, and enhances his understanding of life’s fleeting...

In this captivating episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher takes listeners on an imaginative journey with "The Unlocking," a unique piece of jewelry that transcends the ordinary. This exquisite creation is not merely about adornment; it symbolizes unity, exploration, and the profound ability to connect across cultures and time. Designed as a luminous golden key adorned with diamonds and sapphires, "The Unlocking" captu...

In this captivating episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher invites Elisabeth Weingraber Pircher to share her incredible journey through various cultures, career challenges, and personal growth. From her early days in a traditional Austrian family to her transformative Erasmus exchange in France and adventurous job selling books door-to-door in the U.S., Elisabeth’s story is a tes...

In this profound episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher explores the intricate dance of identity and the quest for belonging through the unique design of a pencil cup for architects. The piece, inspired by a Puerto Rican garita, juxtaposes unfinished brutalist style and a vibrant enameled orchid, reflecting the transient nature of human existence. This episode invites listeners to delve deep in...

In this illuminating episode of the "Shine Podcast," host Daniel Boettcher engages in a compelling conversation with renowned architect Jose Ricardo Coleman Davis. Known as JR, Davis offers a deep dive into his architectural philosophy, blending modernist and traditional elements while honoring Puerto Rico’s unique cultural and environmental context. From his formative years in New Orleans an...

In this enlightening episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher delves into the philosophical beauty of imperfection with a discussion on "My Search for Meaning," a pair of cufflinks that challenge traditional notions of completeness and beauty. Through this captivating piece of jewelry, Daniel navigates themes of existential inquiry and the acceptance of life’s inherent asymmetry. This episode is ...

In this insightful episode of the "Shine Podcast," host Daniel Boettcher reconnects with his friend and Port of Seattle Commissioner, Ryan Calkins. From a childhood in Seattle’s suburbs to his impactful role in public office, Ryan shares his journey through academia, international relief work, and eventually, politics. This conversation explores the challenges and rewards of public service, t...

In this bonus content and Design Brief of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher explores the timeless legacy of familial unity and love with a focus on “Into Posterity,” a unique puzzle ring designed to embody the enduring bonds between a father and his children. Through this intricate and meaningful piece of jewelry, Daniel highlights the transformative power of heirlooms to connect generations. The conversation delves into the...

In this deeply personal episode of the "Shine Podcast," host Daniel Boettcher sits down with his lifelong friend Luke Simon to discuss friendship, family, and legacy. Known for his humility and dedication to his family, Luke opens up about the journey of growing up alongside Daniel, the principles that guide his life, and the meaning he finds in relationships and faith. Luke’s insights on embracing an “average” life reveal profound...

In "Christian's Design Brief," host Daniel Boettcher delves into the story behind a profoundly meaningful piece of jewelry: a shaving mirror that transcends its practical purpose. Designed for a man who values authenticity, spirituality, and family above all, this mirror symbolizes reflection and direction in life. Encased in 10-karat gold with a compass rose design in rubies and diamonds, the piece is both a tool and a testament. ...

In this inspiring episode of the Shine Podcast, host Daniel Boettcher reunites with his longtime friend, Christian Ford, to explore Christian’s journey from his early days in California to his transformative experiences in the Navy SEALs and beyond. Christian opens up about finding purpose, the quest for self-discovery, and the art of "living for yourself." This episode touches on themes of courage, personal growth, and the importa...

In this exclusive bonus content, host and renowned bespoke jewelery maker, Daniel Boettcher, takes you on a detailed journey through Graham's story's artistic and symbolic elements as captured in the meticulously crafted display case. Discover the deeper meanings behind each item within this miniature Closet, from the eclectic mix of treasures in the candy jar to the resplendent yet humble peacock pin. Daniel elaborates on the prof...

In "Lily’s Design Brief," host Daniel Boettcher delves into the creation and symbolism behind a unique strand of pearls with an extraordinary clasp. The jewelry piece features design elements that bridge ancient Egyptian heritage and modern Coptic Christian faith. The pearls symbolize eternity and divine authority, while the clasp, adorned with pyramids and a cross, encapsulates profound historical and religious signif...

In this heartfelt episode of the "Shine Podcast," host Daniel Boettcher engages in an intimate conversation with his cousin, Dr Graham Boettcher, esteemed Director of the Birmingham Museum of Art. Together, they explore Graham’s lifelong journey through his unique passion for collecting, his challenges with weight, and his personal discovery and acceptance of his sexuality. With humor, honesty, and vulnerability, Graham opens up ab...

Welcome to the premiere episode of the "Shine Podcast"! 🌟  

Join host Daniel Boettcher in a heartfelt conversation with Lily Awatif Hanna, a close friend and accomplished obstetrician-gynecologist. In this episode, we explore Lily's unique journey as an Egyptian-American navigating cultural heritage, tradition, and her personal pursuit of motherhood through non-traditional means. From her early family life in a Coptic Orthodox hou...