Stranger Connections
Lisa David Olson has over two decades of writing and performing comedy experience, as well as speaking on the benefits of humor and tips from the stage to more effectively communicate in real life. Be the nosy neighbor and listen in as she interviews people she barely knows, (or hasn't yet met) to hear about their weird life stories or quirky careers. There's a lady who says she can communicate with your dog, a man who used to be a zen monk, and even a guy from Russia who gave himself up for adoption at age 9. Expect a few laughs sprinkled in as guests are invited to share a prank or embarrassing moment too. When your host is a bold and curious beast - anything goes. This podcast is an offshoot of Lisa's project in bravery, called Serious Selfies With Strangers; where a dare for a non-smiling photo with someone she had not yet met always created a moment of laughter, and often forged the way to new friendships that would never have been. Books available; Laughs On Wry; an improvisor's memoir and What If's and Why Nots; a journal full of creative cues to unravel stuck moments. Comedy album of actual telemarketer calls on iTunes: Phun on the Phone.
Episodes
April 20, 2024 • 26 mins
"You won't be great until you can learn to love SELF."
Dr. Andrew Temte is the former CEO of Kaplan Professional (La Crosse WI) and the author of two books . . . so far.
He's also the leader of a rock band, a University Teacher, a mentor, a speaker, and a podcaster.
Listen in as we discuss:
How to inspire Imposter Syndrome
Tools to be present in the work life
How Purpose brings us back to center
The first two words he uses as a teac...
Dr. Andrew Temte is the former CEO of Kaplan Professional (La Crosse WI) and the author of two books . . . so far.
He's also the leader of a rock band, a University Teacher, a mentor, a speaker, and a podcaster.
Listen in as we discuss:
How to inspire Imposter Syndrome
Tools to be present in the work life
How Purpose brings us back to center
The first two words he uses as a teac...
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Retired homicide detective Mike Hammond was with the Chicago Police Department for 22 years. He has SEEN some things . . . and I get nosy and ask everything I wanted to know more about.
CAUTION: Some content may be harder to hear as crimes are discussed, so listen with caution.
We talk about polygraphs (lie detectors), the main case Hammond can not let go of, mental health, murders in Chicago, interview styles, gaslighting, lies,...
CAUTION: Some content may be harder to hear as crimes are discussed, so listen with caution.
We talk about polygraphs (lie detectors), the main case Hammond can not let go of, mental health, murders in Chicago, interview styles, gaslighting, lies,...
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April 6, 2024 • 32 mins
"I'm like a comedic aging Disney princess." laughs Carla Collins
This episode kicks off Humor Month on the Stranger Connections Podcast.
Carla is THE most charming, hilarious, witty, and gorgeous comic in the US and Canada alike.
She's grabbed several comedy awards, and you've most likely seen her in shows, or you will soon because she just doesn't stop.
Carla Collins is an award-winning comic, actor, writer, emcee, auctioneer, and i...
This episode kicks off Humor Month on the Stranger Connections Podcast.
Carla is THE most charming, hilarious, witty, and gorgeous comic in the US and Canada alike.
She's grabbed several comedy awards, and you've most likely seen her in shows, or you will soon because she just doesn't stop.
Carla Collins is an award-winning comic, actor, writer, emcee, auctioneer, and i...
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March 26, 2024 • 25 mins
"Try to remember that they just hate themselves, and they're takin' it out on you." This beautiful lyric is from Amanda Grace's latest album (her 8th!). The album is Give Me Away and this song is 'Love Yourself'.
Amanda Grace is a Minnesota native who travels, performs, and collaborates to create unique shows and brilliant albums.
In this episode, you'll find out why Amanda has plans to hold a show at a cemetery, what her musical t...
Amanda Grace is a Minnesota native who travels, performs, and collaborates to create unique shows and brilliant albums.
In this episode, you'll find out why Amanda has plans to hold a show at a cemetery, what her musical t...
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March 17, 2024 • 28 mins
On Episode 195 of Stranger Connections Podcast:
Author Aaron Frale's book "My Three Year Old is a Barbarian - and other parenting problems" caught my attention. Frale is a Montana resident whose wi fi happened to work while we recorded this episode.
Learn about writing, laugh along with us, and hear about the prank that made the news, as well as almost banning him from an online service!
Topics we sort through:
What it means to 'st...
Author Aaron Frale's book "My Three Year Old is a Barbarian - and other parenting problems" caught my attention. Frale is a Montana resident whose wi fi happened to work while we recorded this episode.
Learn about writing, laugh along with us, and hear about the prank that made the news, as well as almost banning him from an online service!
Topics we sort through:
What it means to 'st...
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March 9, 2024 • 27 mins
"I like when you taste something and it takes you on a journey." Jen Barney, multi Food
Network baking champion.
Jen Barney grew up on a farm in Stoddard Wisconsin. Unsurprisingly, most of her ingredients are a nod to local dairy farms and products from Wisconsin. But these are not basic potluck cupcakes. Her baked goods are described as Ridiculously Awesome Desserts.
Learn about how she didn't believe the person calling her to ask t...
Network baking champion.
Jen Barney grew up on a farm in Stoddard Wisconsin. Unsurprisingly, most of her ingredients are a nod to local dairy farms and products from Wisconsin. But these are not basic potluck cupcakes. Her baked goods are described as Ridiculously Awesome Desserts.
Learn about how she didn't believe the person calling her to ask t...
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March 3, 2024 • 30 mins
"Sometimes helping people is more important than following rules." Kim Korven, retired lawyer, former judge of tenant-landlord disputes, 'conflict queen'.
Welcome to episode 193 of Stranger Connections Podcast, which features weird life stories, quirky careers, and prank & dare stories.
Kim Korven shares her experiences as a lawyer and judge, including how divorce can be a gift you give yourself and your children.
Did you know yo...
Welcome to episode 193 of Stranger Connections Podcast, which features weird life stories, quirky careers, and prank & dare stories.
Kim Korven shares her experiences as a lawyer and judge, including how divorce can be a gift you give yourself and your children.
Did you know yo...
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February 21, 2024 • 20 mins
After listening to this episode, you will most likely notice the word Vibe. Either hearing it, seeing it on shirts or signage . . . everything will be reminding you about The Vibe. And that's a great thing!
Jason DelGandio has been studying the exchange of energy for nearly 30 years. He's a PhD, an author, a presenter, and an award-winning teacher.
Is Good Vibes Only really in our best interest . . . ?
For his doctoral work, DelGandi...
Jason DelGandio has been studying the exchange of energy for nearly 30 years. He's a PhD, an author, a presenter, and an award-winning teacher.
Is Good Vibes Only really in our best interest . . . ?
For his doctoral work, DelGandi...
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February 16, 2024 • 28 mins
"How can I HELP you, not how can I SELL you. It's about how we connect with value."
Phil Gerbyshak - author of 7 books, over 300 articles, podcaster, business coach, sales expert, and high energy speaker.
Time with Phil is something I recommend to anyone who has ever tried to sell something. Anything. A popsicle, a program, a bike, a building. You just have to listen to Phil tell you the right way to create a connection before even...
Phil Gerbyshak - author of 7 books, over 300 articles, podcaster, business coach, sales expert, and high energy speaker.
Time with Phil is something I recommend to anyone who has ever tried to sell something. Anything. A popsicle, a program, a bike, a building. You just have to listen to Phil tell you the right way to create a connection before even...
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February 10, 2024 • 33 mins
Imagine trying to sleep on the eve of the morning you know you're going to quit your job to travel the world for nearly two years.
"I believe success comes from sharing your journey. So tell everyone!" Katrina McGhee, MBA,
Certified Life Coach who helps people design career breaks to create more fulfilling lives.
After saving $40k in 18 months, Katrina left her corporate job for a twenty-month break to travel the world. Now she shar...
"I believe success comes from sharing your journey. So tell everyone!" Katrina McGhee, MBA,
Certified Life Coach who helps people design career breaks to create more fulfilling lives.
After saving $40k in 18 months, Katrina left her corporate job for a twenty-month break to travel the world. Now she shar...
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February 1, 2024 • 36 mins
Are you paralyzed by procrastination? Is your confidence lacking? Are decisions difficult at times?
Meet Robyn Greenspan; a skilled wordsmith with the soul of a journalist, the mind of a marketer, and the heart of a storyteller. Her book, "Dopamine Hacks; How to Mind Shift and Mood Lift Your Way to Motivation" is an experiential workbook that harnesses the power of imagination, positive self-reflection, and happy memories to fuel yo...
Meet Robyn Greenspan; a skilled wordsmith with the soul of a journalist, the mind of a marketer, and the heart of a storyteller. Her book, "Dopamine Hacks; How to Mind Shift and Mood Lift Your Way to Motivation" is an experiential workbook that harnesses the power of imagination, positive self-reflection, and happy memories to fuel yo...
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January 25, 2024 • 30 mins
"Communication is a love letter, if you write it that way." Dr. Heather Browne
While recording this episode the evening of January 24, 2024 we were also checking to see if Dr. Browne's book was live on Amazon. Hours after we recorded, it was !!!
This is the power of Stranger Connections. Just kidding. But why not take credit for what you're about to experience?
Dr. Browne is a second-time guest on this podcast. We became fast friends...
While recording this episode the evening of January 24, 2024 we were also checking to see if Dr. Browne's book was live on Amazon. Hours after we recorded, it was !!!
This is the power of Stranger Connections. Just kidding. But why not take credit for what you're about to experience?
Dr. Browne is a second-time guest on this podcast. We became fast friends...
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January 19, 2024 • 25 mins
For some reason we kicked off our chat with discussions of prisons, but that has nothing to do with Bas Lebesque in general. He's just that easy to chat with.
Bas is an executive mindset coach with extensive experience in guiding professionals through transformative journeys. His background is in trading billions. He has lived in 8 countries and 5 continents! A passion of Bas' is including those who might not be diverse or inclusiv...
Bas is an executive mindset coach with extensive experience in guiding professionals through transformative journeys. His background is in trading billions. He has lived in 8 countries and 5 continents! A passion of Bas' is including those who might not be diverse or inclusiv...
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January 9, 2024 • 34 mins
"A really easy cover for being ugly, is being funny." ~ Kathy Kalamity
Kathy is anything but ugly. She has a glow about her and attracts attention at first glance with a high vibing sass-itude.
It was fun to ask her anything I wanted to about Drag shows and the performers who do them.
If you haven't yet checked out a drag performance, promise me you will! There is music, action, humor, skits, new friends, and an overall feeling that ...
Kathy is anything but ugly. She has a glow about her and attracts attention at first glance with a high vibing sass-itude.
It was fun to ask her anything I wanted to about Drag shows and the performers who do them.
If you haven't yet checked out a drag performance, promise me you will! There is music, action, humor, skits, new friends, and an overall feeling that ...
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January 7, 2024 • 26 mins
"You need to trust yourself as a parent." Amanda Schenkenberger, homeschool coach
What would it feel like to have support and maybe even feel empowered as a parent?
Amanda is a second generation home schooler. She has a flair for calming chaos, creating schedules, and building strong bonds.
Listen in about her own journey of growing up as a home schooled student, what it was like to attend public high school at 16 years old, and the...
What would it feel like to have support and maybe even feel empowered as a parent?
Amanda is a second generation home schooler. She has a flair for calming chaos, creating schedules, and building strong bonds.
Listen in about her own journey of growing up as a home schooled student, what it was like to attend public high school at 16 years old, and the...
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This guest tells me he's on a global mission to help people optimize productivity with positivity.
He delivers a rare blend of inspiring content and entertaining humor - using his experience as a stand-up and improvisation comic.
Paul Osincup is F U N N Y and clever. He helps create happier, healthier, and more connected workplaces, too!
Join in to hear us chitty-chat about:
How his nerdy obsession became his career.
The view point ...
He delivers a rare blend of inspiring content and entertaining humor - using his experience as a stand-up and improvisation comic.
Paul Osincup is F U N N Y and clever. He helps create happier, healthier, and more connected workplaces, too!
Join in to hear us chitty-chat about:
How his nerdy obsession became his career.
The view point ...
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December 23, 2023 • 28 mins
Kimberly Parry dresses women from the inside out - calling it 'Bougie on a Budget'.
Episode 183 of Stranger Connections podcast - come on in!
This former religion teacher is now a life stylist, guiding others toward the power of their personal style from the inside out. She's a former jock who accidentally landed fashion as a career!
In the same year, Kimberly lost her marriage, her health, and her career. How did she pick herself bac...
Episode 183 of Stranger Connections podcast - come on in!
This former religion teacher is now a life stylist, guiding others toward the power of their personal style from the inside out. She's a former jock who accidentally landed fashion as a career!
In the same year, Kimberly lost her marriage, her health, and her career. How did she pick herself bac...
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December 17, 2023 • 31 mins
"If you can teach the next generation that these animals have feelings, you can get to the root of the problem." ~ Jon Garstang
This guest had me laughing throughout our time together. He stayed up into the wee hours so that we could match schedules to record a Stranger Connections episode. He's crazy-funny, sweet, generous, and brilliant.
Garstang has worked all over the world and believes in creating symbiosis with the animals in ...
This guest had me laughing throughout our time together. He stayed up into the wee hours so that we could match schedules to record a Stranger Connections episode. He's crazy-funny, sweet, generous, and brilliant.
Garstang has worked all over the world and believes in creating symbiosis with the animals in ...
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December 7, 2023 • 28 mins
"If you take yourself too seriously, you may be suffering from Adultitis."
So says Jason Kotecki, who is a professional reminder-er and permission granted who moonlights as an artist, author, and speaker.
Jason and his wife Kim have made it their mission in life to help people and organizations to build better lives, businesses, and teams!
What we talk about in this episode of Stranger Connections podcast:
- Ugly cookies
- Tinkering and...
So says Jason Kotecki, who is a professional reminder-er and permission granted who moonlights as an artist, author, and speaker.
Jason and his wife Kim have made it their mission in life to help people and organizations to build better lives, businesses, and teams!
What we talk about in this episode of Stranger Connections podcast:
- Ugly cookies
- Tinkering and...
Mark as Played
November 30, 2023 • 27 mins
"What have you been WATCHING, lady?" my guest, John Carey, to me.
This episode of Stranger Connections podcast is about the Hollywood writer and actor strike. I was lucky enough to find an insider who shares behind-the-scenes of behind the scenes action (or lack thereof) in Hollywood.
John Carey (author Daniel John Carey) talks about how he helps writers and producers polish their screenplays, scripts and various writing for filmma...
This episode of Stranger Connections podcast is about the Hollywood writer and actor strike. I was lucky enough to find an insider who shares behind-the-scenes of behind the scenes action (or lack thereof) in Hollywood.
John Carey (author Daniel John Carey) talks about how he helps writers and producers polish their screenplays, scripts and various writing for filmma...
Mark as Played
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