Learning to Listen to Your Own Life by Kristan Swan

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages with Kristan Swan, who shares her insights on personal growth, curiosity, and the importance of reflection during life transitions. They discuss the impact of early life experiences on curiosity, the journey from landscape design to coaching, and the concept of spiritual autobiography. Kristen introduces her unique journaling method, ‘Spaghetti on the Wall,’ which encourages self-awareness and non-judgmental observation. The conversation also explores the fear of success, the relationship between spirituality and professional growth, and the significance of support systems in building confidence.

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You can’t always get what you want…

Jan 22, 2026

The Rolling Stone lyrics “you can’t always get what you want” kept going through my head after a recent walk in NYC and lots of eavesdropping. It was the end of the workday on a Tuesday and already a dark, chilly evening. I wondered if anyone who was complaining had really taken the time to ask themselves-What do I want? What do I need?

Death by a thousand cuts

Jan 15, 2026

My first marriage eroded slowly, almost without my noticing it. I am aware of other times I have allowed dreams and ideas to die a slow death. It has been a pattern. With attention, it is possible to achieve dreams, grow ideas into a reality, and deepen relationships. Each day, one step at a time.

Star Words

Jan 8, 2026

I had already picked the word play for 2026 then I went to church. That Sunday, the congregation was invited to pick a star word. My second word for 2026 is stability. It was not a word that felt ‘right’ until I spent a little time thinking about how play and stability could work together and support my year ahead.