What’s the secret to lasting friendships? How does queer community show up through the ebbs and flows of life? And what’s the REAL story behind the “YMCA” song? In the first episode of Silver Linings, The Old Gays dive into an essential part of queer life: chosen family. They discuss the vital love, support, and sense of belonging that community provides, especially during life's toughest moments. They open up about what “queer” means to them, how chosen family has impacted their lives, and how to maintain close bonds over time–including their love for each other! “We’ve come a long way, baby.” Family isn’t just what you’re born with; it’s the people who show up, shape you, and stick around. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
I’ve been lucky enough to visit Hawaii a number of times, and every trip reminds me how powerful the spirit of Aloha can be. So imagine my surprise when The Pitt introduced me to Ho’oponopono—an ancient Hawaiian practice that Joe Vitale talks about in his book Zero Limits . In this video, I count down my top 5 reasons why you should try this simple practice to clean up mental clutter and bring some serious peace of mind into your life. Mahalo for watching, and as always—Laugh Long and Prosper!…
I don’t usually do Top 5 lists for fiction books, but The Women by Kristin Hannah was so gripping, I just had to share my thoughts! From its raw portrayal of Vietnam to the unforgettable female friendships, here’s why I devoured this book in three days. Spoiler-free—just honest insights and a deep dive into what makes this book a must-read. In this review, I’ll share: ✅ The immersive atmosphere that drops you into the chaos of war ✅ The portrayal of brave women whose stories deserve to be heard ✅ How this book gave me a fresh perspective on Vietnam ✅ Why Kristin Hannah’s storytelling is so magnetic (and coming soon to the screen!) ✅ And of course, why I’m giving it a solid 10/10! Have you read The Women ? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!…
Psychic Cindy Bachly: True Stories of Intuition, Crime & Warnings Ignored | 2021 Interview In this riveting 2021 interview, I sit down with psychic and intuitive reader Cindy Bachly to explore the moment she realized she had a gift — and the extraordinary ways she’s used it ever since. Cindy opens up about how her intuition has helped clients, "unofficially" guided police investigations, and even predicted shocking events long before they happened. You’ll hear jaw-dropping stories of what happens when people don’t listen to their inner voice — including a chilling tale of a murder Cindy predicted a year in advance. 👁️🗨️ What we cover: How Cindy discovered she was psychic The surprising ways she supports police investigations A client's tragic experience after ignoring a warning A haunting prediction of a child’s murder — told to a client a year before it happened 🔮 About Cindy Bachly: Based in Toronto, Cindy is an intuitive reader who helps others find guidance, reassurance, and clarity. Her grounded approach and striking accuracy have made her a trusted advisor — often offering insight when no one else can. Cindy can be reached at 416-498-0970 or by email CBachly@yahoo.com 📌 Learn more or book a reading via Cindy’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cindy-Bachly-Intuitive-Reader-100068856694739/ 🧠 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this interview gave you goosebumps. Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/get-in-touch/ https://judycroon.com/ #LaughLongAndProsper #BookReview #SelfHelp #Optimism #MindsetShift #CindyBachly #PsychicInterview #TruePsychicStories…
🎧 Just Another Mindful Monday Countdown: Top 5 Buddha-Backed Tips to Stop Worrying (2500 years of calm — now in a convenient top 5 format!) ✋ #5 — Declutter Your Outer World In my experience, worrying thrives in chaos — like a raccoon in a messy garage. Buddha believed the external reflects the internal. So when I clean off my desk (or finally fold that laundry), my mind stops spinning like a hamster in a blender. 💭 #4 — Watch Your Thoughts, Don’t Marry Them Thoughts are like guests. Some bring wine. Some bring drama. I’ve learned (thanks to the Buddha) that I don’t have to RSVP yes to every panicky thought. I just nod politely and say, “Thanks for your concern, brain. Now please leave.” 🧘 #3 — Breathe Like You Mean It A single slow breath can cancel a full-blown worry spiral. I inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6 — and boom, I’ve gone from “What if everything goes wrong?” to “Maybe I just need a sandwich and a nap.” 📿 #2 — Let Go of the Outcome This one's tough. I love control. But worry is just control in a panic hat. When I catch myself obsessing, I remember: “Do the work. Let go of the fruits.” (That’s Buddha, not a diet plan.) It’s freeing. And fewer stomach ulcers. 🌟 #1 — Stay Here. Not There. The biggest game-changer for me? The present moment. Worry lives in the future. Peace lives in the now. When I gently tug my attention back to what’s actually happening — not the 27 disasters I’ve invented — I feel lighter, calmer, and weirdly… taller? Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon #Mindfulness #Buddhism #StressRelief #StopWorrying #MentalHealth #Meditation #SelfHelp #AnxietyRelief #InnerPeace #BuddhistWisdom #LaughLongAndProsper #JudyCroon #MindfulMonday #Positivity #MotivationalSpeaker…
Welcome to Psychic Friday with Judy Croon and world-renowned clairvoyant Psychic Nikki! In this episode, we dive into bold predictions for the rest of May 2025 and beyond: ✨ What's next for Trump? 🚀 What’s next for Elon Musk? 🎤 Big news for Rihanna, Jay Z & Beyoncé? 🏒 Can the Toronto Maple Leafs actually win the Stanley Cup? 📈 Will Mark Carney make a surprise political move? 💸 What’s the deal with rising tariffs? We cover celebrity insights, global events, and even a little Canadian hockey magic (or mayhem). Join us for intuitive insights, laughs, and maybe a surprise or two from the universe. Psychic Nikki, known as the "Psychic to the Stars," is a Toronto-based clairvoyant recognized for her celebrity clientele and media presence. Her notable clients include Cher, Rod Stewart, Matt Dillon, Shirley MacLaine and Tom Cruise. Nikki has appeared on several international television shows and has been featured in various media outlets such as The Toronto Sun, The Globe and Mail, and the National Post. She is known for making numerous predictions, including events involving public figures and global occurrences. Here is Nikki's website if you want to book her or see her predictions throughout the years including 2025. Http://www.PsychicNikki.com or call you can call her at 416-961-7976 Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/get-in-touch/ https://judycroon.com/ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave your own predictions in the comments below! #PsychicFriday #PsychicNikki #JudyCroon #TorontoMapleLeafs #StanleyCup #Trump #ElonMusk #Rihanna #JayZ #Beyonce #MarkCarney #Tariffs #CanadaPredictions #CelebrityPredictions #Clairvoyant #FunnyPodcast #CanadaHumor…
🎧 Just Another Mindful Monday Presents: Top 5 Buddha-Backed Tips for a Calmer, Sharper You (Science-backed. Soul-approved.) ✋ #5 — Declutter One Thing Today Your mess is messing with you—clutter spikes cortisol by 15%. 🧹 Tip: Clear one thing—your desk, purse, inbox, or even your desktop background. It’s not about becoming a minimalist. It’s about creating space for peace. ☀️ #4 — Eat Like a Monk, Not a Muppet Mindful eating boosts nutrient absorption by 30% and cuts bingeing by 75%. 🍽️ Tip: Before you eat, pause and ask: “Am I truly hungry or just bored/stressed?” Then chew slowly. Your body’s whispering answers—listen between bites. 🌬️ #3 — Breathe In, Step Out, Chill Hard Every slow breath is a rep for your nervous system. Add nature, and it's a double win. 🌿 Green space lowers cortisol by 21%, and people who live near it are 30% less likely to experience depression. No forest? No problem. A park, balcony garden, or tree-lined street still counts. 🧘 Tip: Step outside, take one mindful breath, and let the natural world work its magic. 🌻 #2 — Flex Your Gratitude Muscle Gratitude isn’t fluff—it rewires your brain. Optimists live up to 15 years longer. 🧠 Tip: Each morning, name one thing you're grateful for (yes, your coffee counts). Consistency turns gratitude into a mindset, not a moment. 🧘 #1 — Stillness is Your Superpower Just 10 minutes of daily meditation can shrink your amygdala (stress center) and grow your prefrontal cortex (focus + emotional control). 📣 Tip: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6. This activates your vagus nerve—calming your system like a built-in spa. 🧘♀️ Final Thought You don’t need a robe or a mountain to be mindful. One breath. One bite. One decluttered drawer. That’s the practice. As the Buddha said: “What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.” J udy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/ #LaughLongAndProsper #BookReview #SelfHelp #Optimism #MindsetShift…
Can your pet really understand you? And better yet—can a psychic understand them? In this episode of Psychic Friday, I sit down with the amazing Ursula Darby, a gifted psychic medium who also communicates with animals. From dogs and cats to horses and birds, Ursula shares how she connects with our furry (and feathery) friends on a whole new level. We explore: 🐾 How animal communication works 🐾 What your pet might be trying to tell you 🐾 The emotional and spiritual bonds we share with animals 🐾 Real stories from Ursula’s sessions with pets—and their humans If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on behind those soulful eyes or quirky behaviors, this episode is for you! 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment about your pet—we’d love to hear their story! What image comes to mind when you think of a psychic medium? Dark rooms, crystal balls, strange shady characters? Well then you have not met Ursula Darby. Ursula is changing the way people think of psychics and mediums. There is nothing mysterious or strange about her. She is straightforward, honest and a whole lot of fun! Ursula has been a medium and a psychic since she was very young. Experiences with spirit started as a child and have shaped her into an effective and conscious communicator with the other side. She delivers messages to loved ones from people in spirit. Using her psychic abilities, Ursula reads her clients' past, present and future in detail. All sessions with Ursula are filled with compassion, understanding and her wonderful sense of humour. Her dynamic, outgoing personality coupled with her sharp wit makes all of her sessions insightful and entertaining. Ursula resides in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. To contact Ursula or sign up for her intuition classes, go to http://www.UrsulaDarby.com or email her at bookwithursula@gmail.com You can book a reading with Ursula online. Check out the big red button on her site that says ' Schedule Appointment'. http://www.ursuladarby.com/classes.html http://www.ursuladarby.com/people-readings.html Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/get-in-touch/ https://judycroon.com/ #LaughLongAndProsper #BookReview #SelfHelp #Optimism #MindsetShift…
Feeling stuck in a cycle of negativity? Good news — you weren’t born a pessimist! 🎉 In this episode of Laugh Long and Prosper, I break down the Top 5 life-changing tips from Learned Optimism by Martin Seligman — the book that proves optimism isn’t just for "those people" who name their plants and run marathons before 6 AM. Learn how to retrain your brain, reframe your inner dialogue, and stop throwing full-blown drama festivals every time life throws a curveball. (Hey, we’ve all been there.) ✨ If you’re ready to turn your inner critic into your biggest cheerleader, this countdown is for you. ✅ Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT: What's one thing you could reframe today? 🧠 Related episodes you might like: Top 5 Tips from The Psychology of Money How to Use the Let Them Theory for Personal Growth Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/get-in-touch/ https://judycroon.com/ #LaughLongAndProsper #BookReview #SelfHelp #Optimism #MindsetShift…
Welcome to Laugh Long and Prosper, where the laughs are long and the opinions are... surprisingly well-researched (after wine). In this episode, I sit down with my two great comedic friends —Anna Gustafson and Lisa Gay Tremblay —for a no-holds-barred chat about politics, puppy sitting and the power of a good Pinot. From tarriffs to tail wags, no topic is safe. ⚠️ Caution: Contains howling (from laughter and dogs),wine fuelled wisdom, and some hot takes that might just start a revolution. Or a wine club. 🎙️ Subscribe for weekly episodes full of comedy, real talk, and the occasional psychic prediction. Anna Gustafson is originally from the predominantly Scandinavian town of Lund BC. She now makes her home in Toronto. She's done stand up comedy all over Canada, she has performed at the Just For Laughs festival and she's also done a presentation on Tedx. As the Comedian in Residence at Gilda’s Club Toronto, Anna is the producer and host of Never Mind Comedy. http://www.AnnaGustafson.ca She also has a supporting role in the startup initiative Gathering for Goodness, and she produces the live, pro, stand-up comedy show "The BETTY" which creates space for sometimes underrepresented pockets of the comedy community. Lisa Gay Tremblay is originally from Ottawa. She resides in Sherman Oaks, LA. She was elected to the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood council. She’s toured all over. She's performed at Just for Laughs and she’s been on Fox, Showtime and A & E. She’s also had some national commercials running south of the border. http://www.LisaGayTremblay.com Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat! https://judycroon.com/get-in-touch/ https://judycroon.com/…
🌍🔮 Welcome to another episode of Psychic Friday. Today’s guest is Psychic Nikki. Get ready for another mind-blowing Psychic Friday! This week, world-famous Psychic Nikki joins me to reveal shocking predictions for 2025—from celebrity shakeups to global surprises you won’t believe! 😱✨ We talk: 👉 World events 👉 Celebrity drama 👉 Love, career & cosmic energy 👉 And what YOU need to watch for this year! Grab your coffee (or crystals) and get ready for a funny, fascinating ride into the future. 🧠💫 Psychic Nikki, known as the "Psychic to the Stars," is a Toronto-based clairvoyant recognized for her celebrity clientele and media presence. Her notable clients include Cher, Rod Stewart, Matt Dillon, Shirley MacLaine and Tom Cruise. Nikki has appeared on several international television shows and has been featured in various media outlets such as The Toronto Sun, The Globe and Mail, and the National Post. She is known for making numerous predictions, including events involving public figures and global occurrences. Here is Nikki's website if you want to book her or see her predictions throughout the years including 2025. Http://www.PsychicNikki.com or call you can call her at 416-961-7976…
How to Use ‘Let Them Theory’ for Personal Growth – 5 Tips Hi, I’m Judy Croon—comedian, speaker, stress-buster, and someone who occasionally forgets to let people be wrong in peace. But I’m working on it. Recently, I came across a concept that hit me right between the chakras—“Let Them Theory,” popularized by author and speaker Mel Robbins. The idea is simple, brilliant, and a total stress reliever: If people want to do something… let them. Let them talk. Let them walk. Let them misread your email tone. Let them eat soup with a fork. Let. Them. It’s not about being passive—it’s about being free. So here are 5 ways to use Let Them Theory to reduce stress, grow personally, and maybe—just maybe—stop arguing with your cousin on Facebook. #5 – Let Them Think You're Nuts You told your coworker you’re trying “Niksen”—a Dutch practice of doing absolutely nothing—and they looked at you like you grew a second head. Let them. Your growth doesn’t need their permission. Sometimes the best ideas look weird at first. So does oat milk. #4 – Let Them Be Messy Your friend is always late. Your colleague overshares. That one family member always brings up politics at dinner. Let them. You can set boundaries without turning into a hall monitor. Letting people be who they are gives you space to be who you are, too. #3 – Let Them Misunderstand You You tried to explain your big dream—your comedy, your business, your side hustle—and someone replied with, “That’s cute.” Let them. You’re not here to win everyone over. You’re here to grow, evolve, and maybe prove them wrong later—politely and with receipts. #2 – Let Them Go Some people are just... not your people. And that’s okay. If someone exits your life when you set a boundary or stand in your truth, don’t chase them. Let them. Growth creates space—and sometimes that space is better without the drama. #1 – Let Yourself Rise Here’s the secret: Let Them Theory isn’t really about them. It’s about you. Letting people be who they are gives you the freedom to stop controlling, overexplaining, people-pleasing, and spiraling. So let them... and let yourself step into peace, confidence, and growth. Because the truth is: when you stop trying to manage everything around you, you start managing you. And that’s where the magic happens. Until next time, Laugh Long And Prosper…
Hi, I’m Judy Croon – Canada’s Keynote Humourist – and welcome to another episode of Laugh Long and Prosper: Shelf Help with a Smile! 📚✨ In today’s video, I’m counting down my Top 5 insights from Brianna Wiest’s viral bestseller The Mountain Is You – a powerful and poetic book about overcoming self-sabotage and unlocking your potential. I’ve reviewed Brianna’s work before (hello, 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think) and I had to come back for more! 🔥 If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re the one standing in your own way—this one’s for you. And yes, I bring the laughs along with the life lessons. 😉 👇 Check out my previous Brianna Wiest reviews here: https://judycroon.com/101-essays-that-will-change-the-way-you-think-by-brianna-wiest/ https://judycroon.com/101-essays-that-will-change-the-way-you-think-by-brianna-wiest/ Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon…
Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is a global bestseller, spiritual journey, and self-help guide all rolled into one poetic fable—but what does it really teach us about life, purpose, and maybe not ignoring our weird little heart voices? In this Top 5 countdown, I break down the biggest takeaways from The Alchemist in my signature style—funny, insightful, and 0% desert sand. Whether you’re a fan of the book, a seeker of purpose, or just someone who needs a little encouragement (and a laugh), this one’s for you. ✨ Want to chase your dreams without quitting your day job (yet)? Hit play. 🎙️ Top 5 Takeaways from The Alchemist (Or: What I Learned from a Shepherd Who Chased His Dreams and Didn’t Even Need LinkedIn) 5. Trust the journey—even if it’s a little weird. Look, the hero of this book, Santiago, starts off herding sheep and ends up following omens, reading desert winds, and chatting with alchemists. Moral of the story? Your path might look more like a maze designed by a toddler with a crayon, but trust it anyway. That dead-end might be your detour to greatness. Or at least to a better coffee machine at work. 4. Listen to your heart—even if it sounds like it needs therapy. Santiago keeps checking in with his heart, which is kind of adorable. And while most of us ignore our hearts until they start palpitating after a third espresso, Coelho reminds us that our inner voice knows what’s up. Yes, even if it sounds dramatic or starts humming Taylor Swift songs. 3. Fear is the biggest liar in the room. According to this book, fear will stop you faster than a Monday morning all-staff meeting. Santiago’s biggest obstacle isn’t bandits or sandstorms—it’s that nagging voice that says “What if you fail?” Coelho's answer? What if you don’t? And then you’re just stuck in your comfort zone with your metaphoric sheep and no Wi-Fi. 2. The universe is basically your hype person. Coelho says, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” I mean, what a nice thought! The universe, conspiring for you. It’s like having a cosmic personal assistant, minus the Outlook calendar invites. 1. Your treasure might be closer than you think. Here’s the twist (spoiler alert—although this book’s been out since 1988, so I feel like the spoiler statute of limitations has passed): after all that adventuring, the treasure was back where Santiago started. Which is kind of beautiful. Sometimes what we’re looking for isn’t on another continent—it’s just buried under a pile of laundry and self-doubt. ⭐ Final Thought: The Alchemist is a fable wrapped in a fortune cookie, dipped in a little woo-woo—but honestly? It works. It’s a reminder that your dreams matter, your heart knows the way, and the journey is the point. Also, if a desert crystal merchant offers you life advice? Take it. You could do worse. Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat!…
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel | Book Review | Top 5 Tips 📉 Markets are wobbling, headlines are panicking, and your investment app may be asking “Are you sure you want to look?” Before you sell everything and move into a yurt, take a breath. This week, I’m diving into The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel—a book that couldn’t be more relevant right now. Because when it comes to money, it’s not just about numbers... it’s about how we feel about those numbers. From panic selling to comparison spirals, this book gives us permission to pause, zoom out, and stop letting the market mess with our mental health. (Also: turns out patience is more profitable than panic. Who knew?) Check out this podcast for a little perspective, a few laughs, and maybe even a reason not to check your portfolio for the 5th time today. 🎙️ Top 5 Takeaways from The Psychology of Money (Or: Why Your Brain Might Be the Worst Financial Advisor You've Ever Hired) 5. Wealth is what you don’t see. The fancy car, the designer shoes, the Instagram vacations? Those are signs someone spent money, not that they have it. Real wealth is often invisible—like savings, investments, or a healthy relationship with Costco bulk items. So next time you're tempted to keep up with the Joneses, remember: the Joneses might be broke. And in credit card debt. 4. Luck and risk are twins in disguise. Morgan Housel reminds us that financial success isn’t always just about hard work—it’s also about timing, privilege, and sometimes dumb luck. Likewise, failure isn’t always due to laziness or bad choices. Before you judge someone’s bank balance (including your own), remember: sometimes it’s not about effort—it’s about a weird roll of the dice. 3. Saving & Spending Smarts. You don’t need a finance degree or a crystal ball to win with money. You just need to save consistently and not panic when the market dips. Think tortoise, not Bitcoin cowboy. Even small savings add up—kind of like emotional baggage, but with better interest. 2. You are not your neighbor. We all have different financial goals, backgrounds, and tolerance for risk. So comparing your investments to your cousin’s crypto portfolio is a waste of energy. They might be playing poker, while you’re trying to build a nice, safe Monopoly board. Stick to your own game. 1. Freedom is the best kind of wealth. The ultimate goal of money isn’t to impress people—it’s to buy time, flexibility, and peace of mind. That’s the jackpot. Not the yacht, not the gold-plated espresso machine. Time. Time to do work you love, nap without guilt, or say no to things that drain you. That’s the real flex. ⭐ Final Thought: The Psychology of Money isn’t a how-to manual—it’s a mindset shift. It’s about making peace with the emotions behind our bank accounts, especially when the markets are throwing a full-blown financial tantrum. If your portfolio has you sweating or doom-scrolling, this book is your reminder that patience is often more powerful than panic. And yes—if you’ve ever made a questionable 11pm online purchase (hi, weighted blanket), you’re still doing better than you think. Read this one. Breathe. The market will be back. So will your sense of humor. UntIL next time, Laugh Long and Prosper. I’m Judy Croon. Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon 💼 Workplace stress is real… but humour can help! 🤣 Need an engaging speaker for your next event? 🎤 Let’s chat!…
How to Deal with Grief at Work & in Life | Psychic Medium Ursula Darby Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. It doesn’t wait for a “convenient” time—it just shows up, whether we’re at home, at work, or somewhere in between. But how do we navigate loss, emotions, and expectations while still managing daily life? In this episode of Psychic Friday, I sit down with Psychic Medium Ursula Darby to talk about grief, healing, and how to cope when the world keeps moving forward. Whether you're dealing with loss personally or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers insight, understanding, and maybe even a little comfort. We cover: ✅ The unspoken challenges of grieving in the workplace and in daily life ✅ How to manage emotions when you're expected to "keep it together ✅ Signs that grief is affecting you more than you realize ✅ How leaders, coworkers, and loved ones can create a more supportive environment ✅ A unique perspective on grief from a psychic medium’s point of view Ursula Darby is a Public Speaker, Certified Grief Educator, and Psychic Medium. She leads powerful, interactive talks on grief and healing while also providing private readings to help individuals gain clarity. Through keynote speaking, workshops, and private sessions, she helps people process loss, rebuild after grief, and connect in meaningful ways. Ursula can be reached at http://www.UrsulaDarby.com BookwithUrsula@gmail.com…
5 Dutch Work Habits That Will Boost Your Productivity (and Sanity) Hi there, I’m Judy Croon! My dad was from the Netherlands, and my mom was from Guyana. I was actually born in the Netherlands, so let me apologize now if I butcher some of the Dutch words I’m about to say. I love exploring what makes different countries great—what habits, traditions, and quirks contribute to their happiness and success. I’ll definitely be doing separate segments on Guyana and Canada another time, but today, let’s focus on the Dutchies and their secrets to being productive without burning out. The Dutch are some of the happiest, most stress-free people on the planet. But why? Ever wondered how the Dutch manage to be among the most productive and happiest people in the world? According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranks 6th globally in happiness. And while it may seem like the Dutch are doing less, they actually maintain one of the highest levels of productivity in Europe. So what’s their secret? Is it the canals? The bicycles? The fact that they’ve mastered the art of eating fries with mayo and zero shame? Maybe. But I think it has a lot to do with these five uniquely Dutch habits. Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon…
http://www.PattiNegri.com Patti Negri is the “Good Witch” and a Psychic-Medium best known for her recurring role on Travel Channel & Discovery Plus's no. 1 show Ghost Adventures and YouTube’s no.1 paranormal show, Overnight. She is the international bestselling author of Old World Magick for the Modern World, the Vice President of Paraflixx.com, and Headmistress and Co-founder at UniversityMagickus.com. Her work includes appearances on dozens of shows, from Portals To Hell and Master Chef to WipeOut and America’s Got Talent. Influencers, YouTubers, and crossover talents like Lilly Singh, LaurDIY, Good Mythical Morning, and AwesomenessTV have featured Patti’s work. She has graced numerous magazine covers, contributed to over twenty books, and conducted seances on radio, film, and TV. Patti has worked with legends like Emma Stone, Jon Voight, Josh Duhamel, Chevy Chase, and Gregory Hines. She recently launched her second weekly podcast, The Witch's Movie Coven, in conjunction with her popular weekly podcast, The Witching Hour. http://www.PattiNegri.com Judy Croon is Canada’s Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour’. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines’ and ‘Stand Up For The Girls’ which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon…
Book Review: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* (Not caring)– 5 Takeaways That Slapped Me in the Face** I picked up The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson thinking it would be a handbook on how to become a carefree rebel who flips off stress like an action hero walking away from an explosion. Turns out, it’s more like a philosophical slap to the face—with love. Manson isn’t here to coddle you; he’s here to shake you out of your own nonsense, all while swearing at you like a motivational speaker who just got cut off in traffic. So, what did I learn? Here are my top five takeaways from the book, counting down from #5 to #1 because, let’s be honest, dramatic countdowns make everything feel more important. #5 : Happiness is Overrated (and Your Problems Are Your Fault) Surprise! You’re not special, and life isn’t supposed to be a 24/7 highlight reel. Manson says we need to stop chasing happiness like it’s a lost puppy and instead accept that life is a series of problems. The trick isn’t avoiding problems; it’s choosing better problems to have. For example, do you want the problem of working hard to get in shape, or the problem of not fitting into your jeans from 2012? The choice is yours. Either way, there will be struggle, so pick a struggle that at least gives you a six-pack (or, in my case, a strong core under my strategically chosen sweater). #4 : Stop Trying So Hard (Seriously, Chill Out) Manson introduces the mind-blowing concept that the more we desperately want something, the less likely we are to get it. It’s like trying to impress a first date—if you overdo it, you just end up looking like a sweaty salesperson pushing timeshares in Florida. Instead of obsessing over success, wealth, or being universally loved, Manson suggests embracing a paradox: the things that truly matter tend to come when we’re not strangling them with desperation. So relax. Let go. And maybe, just maybe, the universe will stop treating you like a punchline. #3 : You’re Not a Special Snowflake (But Neither is Anyone Else) You know that voice in your head that whispers, "You’re unique, gifted, and destined for greatness"? Well, Manson politely suggests you tell that voice to shut up. Being human means facing the same struggles as everyone else. Your problems aren’t new, your suffering isn’t ground breaking, and nobody is waiting for your TED Talk on "Why My Life Is Extra Hard." Instead of clinging to a narrative of being extraordinary, Manson encourages embracing mediocrity—because in reality, most of us are just regular people trying to do our best. And that’s actually pretty freeing. If you stop demanding greatness from every moment, you might actually enjoy the moments you get.…
Psychic Nikki Predictions for February 2025 Check out Nikki's latest predictions for the new year! Http://www.PsychicNikki.com or call you can call her at 416-961-7976 If you want to watch the video, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TzQgANIeII For full year predictions for 2025, check out Psychic Nikki's predictions for the entire year! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KJyhBuxlNc…
1 hour of Meditation Music for Focus, Relaxation and Stress Relief With everything happening in the world right now—crazy news, endless notifications, and that email you’re avoiding—it’s no wonder your brain feels like it's buffering. Sometimes, you’ve just got to sit back, chill, and pretend you're on a remote island (or at least in a slightly less chaotic corner of your house). Lucky for you, this video is the perfect soundtrack for zoning out or zoning in, depending on your vibe. For the super chill video that goes with the music, check out the link .…
Laughter, as they say, is the best medicine—and nowhere is that truer than in the workplace. Hi, I’m Judy Croon – Canada’s Keynote Humorist. I’m your resident humorist, stress-buster, and workplace comedian. Today, we’re tackling how to bring a little levity to your workday with my top five stress-busting tips for humor in the workplace. Because, let’s face it: if we’re going to spend most of our waking hours at work, slogging it out -we might as well have some fun doing it! So, here’s my top 5 countdown for stress-busting tips when it comes to humour in the workplace.…
5 Takeaways from The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins I’m Judy Croon, and let me tell you—Mel Robbins has kicked off 2025 in serious style. Her latest book, The Let Them Theory, has topped bestseller lists and earned glowing reviews, including an exclusive sit-down with none other than Oprah herself. While I wait for Mel to pencil me in for a chat, I thought I’d share the Top 5 Takeaways from this insightful “shelf-help” page-turner. If you’ve ever been stressed, frustrated, or downright overwhelmed trying to control everything (and everyone) around you, this book is your permission slip to stop. Yes, you can finally take a deep breath, let go, and—wait for it—let them. Now, this theory has floated around therapist offices for years, but it takes someone like Mel Robbins to dust it off, pop on her signature black spectacles, and give us a fresh perspective. With her trademark mix of tough love, heartfelt encouragement, and a little humor, Mel reminds us: “Hey, you can’t fix everything—and you don’t have to.” The Let Them Theory…
Lisa is a Canadian born comedian living in Los Angeles. Lisa talks about the devastating fires in Los Angeles; the loss of life and property, the displacement of 150,000 people and the toughness and true spirit of fellow residents during this catastrophic time. Thank you for sharing your story, Lisa. Like many of you, I feel pretty helpless. However, if someone sharing their story with me can be of assistance in some small way, then I'm happy to listen and share information. Also, as Lisa mentions, you can make donations. Please carefully check your sources -Red Cross probably being the best bet but STILL double check. Los Angeles - we are with you. #LA Strong. xo https://www.lisagaytremblay.com/bio.html…
Book Review: How Not To Die by Dr. Michael Greger How Not To Die By Dr. Michael Greger Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/4fUIx62 Hey folks, I'm Judy Croon. Welcome to another episode of ‘Laugh Long and Prosper’. ‘Laugh Long and Prosper’ is shelf help with a smile, stress busters with a smirk, and information with a wink. You get the point. Don't be shy. You can check out any of my previous ‘Laugh Long and Prosper’ episodes on any of your streaming sources ie; Spotify, Apple, Amazon, you name it. After being so impressed by Dr. Michael Greger's book on aging; 'How Not To Age', I couldn't resist diving into his earlier work, 'How Not To Die'. Both books have garnered rave reviews, and with good reason. If you've ever wondered just how much control you have over your health, this book serves up a feast of evidence and practical advice without any of the guilt tripping. Unless you count the 'Why didn't I know this sooner’ guilt?' The title ‘How Not to Die’- Okay, it sounds a bit dramatic, but it's more about living better - with purpose and vitality. Think of it as an instruction manual for your body. Dr. Greger's writing blends science, humor, and actionable tips to create a book that's as empowering as it is enlightening. And spoiler alert- The answer to many of our health issues is sitting right on our plates. Clusters, Patterns, and Choices: One chapter that hit home for me, and I suspect it might for you as well, is about how diseases and dietary habits tend to cluster within families. Greger points out that while genetics play a role, much of what we assume to be family destiny can turn out sometimes to be family dinner. This idea is as plain as the nose on your face, or in this case, the broccoli on your plate. But it's surprising how little we've acknowledged it. Up until now. I've seen people struggle with illnesses that seem to run in their families, but after reading this chapter, 'How Not To Die' suggests that many of these patterns might be able to be disrupted more than we think. And the best part? It doesn't require an overhaul of your entire life- just small, consistent changes. Eating Our Way To Longevity: Dr.Greger's 'Daily Dozen' checklist is a game changer. It's a simple list of foods and activities to incorporate into your day, from leafy greens and berries to exercise and drinking water. Yes, folks, hydration makes the cut. The genius here is that it focuses on what you can add to your diet rather than what you need to cut out. It's all about abundance, not deprivation. One memorable moment was when Gregor explained how we can eat the rainbow and no Skittles, don't count. He's talking about vibrant, colorful fruits and vegetables. The pigments that make blueberries blue and carrots orange aren't just pretty. They're packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Turns out Mother Nature knows her stuff. How Not To Die By Dr. Michael Greger Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/4fUIx62…
Predictions with Psychic Nikki for 2025 Hey folks, I'm Judy Croon. Welcome to my podcast. Today's a very special show because as you know, at the end of every year, I like to talk to Psychic Nikki about her psychic predictions for, for the following year. So you want to know what's going to be happening in 2025. Just to give you some, just to give you some background on Nikki. Nikki has been clairvoyant all of her life. She is an audient clairvoyant. The ability to see and hear and come up with specifics. Nikki's father had the gift as well. Now, Nikki is known all over the world. Some of her clients include well known movie stars, politicians, people from the sports world and business world. She has done radio shows, TV shows, newspaper interviews, Global News, CBS, the Toronto Star, the Toronto Sun, Howard Stern, and she's just a wonderful, wonderful guest. A number of times I've had the honor of chatting with her. So, Nikki, thank you so much for joining me again. Well, it's great to hear your voice, Judy. So listen, I'm, I'm excited. Tell me. Let's look at the world in review. First of all, if folks want to track your record, they can go to PsychicNikki.com and as well, if they want to get a hold of you, they can either go to http://www.PsychicNikki.com or, or why don't you give folks the phone number that they can call? Well, actually, I have it right here in front of me. 416-961-7976. Again, if you want to get a hold of Nikki, her Phone number is 416-961-7976. It's http://www.PsychicNikki.com N I K K I All right, Psychic Nikki, so tell us about some of your predictions in 2024 that came through, whether it was a good thing or a bad thing. Now, well, this was a bad thing. Sadly. I predicted the assassination attempt on Trump. So that really was my big prediction that came true for the year of 2024. But as you know, Trump has recovered and everything's fine right now. Right? And I predicted that Joe Biden would get ousted, which he did. And the problems between Israel and Iran, okay, the cancer around the Royals, that was sad. So I predicted that as well. And one of the weird predictions I did predict was that a surfer would get killed by a swordfish. That was really a strange one. And there's been so many of them that came true. I predicted this Florida hurricane, Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. And then I predicted Ben Affleck and JLO would split. and that Drake had to be careful of shooting while there was shootings around his mansion on the Bridal path. That's right. I remember you saying that hopefully we have some, some happier predictions for 2025. But let's start out with just any predictions, whether they're happy or they're not.…
Outlive-The Science & Art of Longevity Book Review Hey there, I’m Judy Croon. Canada’s Keynote Humourist Welcome to my Podcast. Book Review: Outlive – The Science and Art of Longevity By Peter Attia and Bill Gifford Houston, we have a problem. Our genetic make-up cannot keep up with our environment. According to Outlive-The Science and Art of Longevity- an imbalance of what we are genetically made up of and our modern environment has led to an increase in chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Our bodies are not equipped to handle all the processed foods that we are consuming at alarming rates. Take fructose, for example. Fructose used to be our friend when our consumption of it was limited to fruit and honey. Unfortunately, now, there's an overabundance of fructose in so much of the processed food that we consume. Our bodies are struggling to store more fat than we need. On top of this, we are not exercising as much and we’re exposed to lots of pollutants. In other words, our environment has changed but our genes have not kept up. Doctors are seeing higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease than ever before. In order to combat these health issues, Outlive-The Science and Art of Longevity stresses that it’s important for us to make conscious choices about our lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, engaging in regular physical activity, and reducing our exposure to harmful toxins. By taking control of our health and making positive changes, we can help bridge the gap between our genes and our environment. Outlive-The Science and Art of Longevity outlines a number of pillars that we can focus on to improve our health and well-being. Here are four of them. They are; exercise, nutrition, sleep and emotional health. What works for one person might not work for another so it’s important to experiment and see what works for you with the ultimate goal of living longer and better. Let’s examine these four pillars.…
Stand Up for City Street Outreach Fundraiser- Weds Dec 4TH Comedy Bar Danforth If you are in the Greater Toronto Area, Wednesday Dec 4th, think about dropping by https://comedybar.ca/shows/stand-up-for-city-street-outreach-with-judy-croon-and-friends?ev=2024-12-04T19%3A00%3A00 http://www.ComedyBar.ca on the Danforth. I’m hosting a special comedy fundraiser for an organization that I volunteer with called City Street Outreach. We are going to raise some much-needed funds for our city’s most vulnerable two-legged and four-legged friends. I will be joined by fellow comics: Martha Chaves, Evan Carter and Anna Gustafson. We are going to have a great time with lots of laughs and we’re going to raise some money! Tickets are selling well. Don’t miss out! Just go to Comedy Bar. Ca and get your ticket now. Tickets are 25 dollars online and at the door. If you have any questions, you can shoot me an email at judy@judycroon.com So let me tell you about City Street Outreach. City Street Outreach has been in existence for over 14 years. Created by Alex Smirnus and his wife Grace, they are giving hope across the GTA. City Street Outreach is a 100 percent volunteer-run, donation based, all-inclusive registered charity providing food, clothing and assistance to those in need across the GTA. Their Winter Downtown Core Freeze Patrols look for the homeless in need of coats, sleeping bags and food. They have multiple daily community housing food outreaches Monday through to Friday across the GTA. By the way, approximately 8500 pounds of food is rescued and distributed every week by City Street Outreach. They have a homeless outreach at Toronto City Hall every Thursday night distributing food, hot/cold drinks, jackets, clothing, sleeping bags, sanitary items and more to those in need. We also distribute 700 pounds of pet food per week. City Street Outreach cares for everybody; for the homeless, street-involved youth, seniors, new immigrants/refugees, single mothers and individual/families in need and/or living in poverty across the GTA. For more information go to http://www.CityStreetOutreach.org or you can drop me a line at judy@JudyCroon.com Dec 4th http://www.ComedyBar.ca ticketshttps://comedybar.ca/shows/stand-up-for-city-street-outreach-with-judy-croon-and-friends?ev=2024-12-04T19%3A00%3A00…
Book Review -The Power of Now – A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now should be on everybody’s bookshelf I still remember the day when I saw this quirky spiritual teacher and self-help author being introduced to us on Oprah’s show in 2000. Winfrey was so impressed with Tolle that she recommended The Power of Now in her magazine O. Two years later, the book reached number one on the New York Times Best Seller list. By 2008 it was translated into 33 languages. But before I get into the book review, did you know that Eckhart Tolle was homeless for two years? From Park Bench to Prophet Eckhart Tolle lived a life that could only be described as extraordinary. Born in Germany, he wandered through Spain, and studied in England before finding himself as a researcher at Cambridge University. Despite battling with suicide obsession, depression, and anxiety, he eventually found spiritual enlightenment. At one point, he found himself isolated from society, homeless and jobless. But instead of despair, he embraced the simplicity of his new life. For two years, he roamed the streets, finding solace in park benches and the beauty of the world around him. People were intrigued by his inner peace and sought to learn his secrets. And so, Eckhart Tolle emerged as a prominent spiritual teacher, spreading his message of mindfulness and living in the present moment to people all over the world. In The Power of Now, Tolle challenges us to break free from the voices in our heads- our egos. Instead, he reminds us to stay in the present -the here and now because he stresses the present is all we really have. Tolle basically says that there is no use worrying about the past or the future because events only happen in the ‘now’. The past and future only occur during a constant stream of ‘now’ moments. It is not uncommon for people to spend their whole life waiting to start living. ~Eckhart Tolle Are you constantly living in the past or the future? So, let's talk about why living in the present moment is so crucial. Think about it - the past is already done and dusted, and the future hasn't even happened yet. The only time we truly have control over is right now, at this very moment. By focusing on the present and being fully engaged in what's happening around us, we can make the most of our experiences and truly appreciate everything life has to offer. Tolle describes the damage and waste of time that we do to our thoughts by thinking either too much about the past or the future. He says when we think too much about the past and not enough about the present- we create guilt, regret, resentment, grievances, sadness, bitterness and all forms of non-forgiveness in our thoughts. He also says when we think too much about the future, we create fear in the form of unease, anxiety, tension, stress and worry in our thoughts.…
Atomic Habits by James Clear Book Review (Including, a special bonus called The Seinfeld Strategy) Atomic Habits by James Clear is a terrific book that digs deep into the science of forming habits -good and bad. Clear offers ‘clear’ strategies for folks to build good habits as well as ‘clear ‘strategies to break the bad ones. Clear emphasizes what many experts have stated before. That is, over time, small incremental changes (or what he calls ‘atomic habits’) can lead to big transformations. Now, in a separate article, Clear wrote about the impact that incremental daily habits had on one of the biggest comedic minds – Jerry Seinfeld. At the end of this book review, I explain how Jerry used an incredibly easy daily routine to soar to stardom. But first, back to Atomic Habits. Using solid research, personal experience and actionable steps, Clear divides his book into four areas: The Fundamentals, How to Build Better Habits, How to Break Bad Habits, and Advanced Tactics. Section 1 - The Fundamentals: In this first section, readers are introduced to the idea of the concept of atomic habits or as we typically know them – daily routines. Clear explains how habits are formed in the brain. He breaks down the habit loop – what we are cued by, then what we crave as a result of the cue, how we respond to the cue and then how we reward ourselves. Clear shows readers how understanding this loop can help them identify and change their habits. Section 2 – How to Build Better Habits In this second section, Clear focuses on how to build better habits by implementing the four laws of behavior change. Let’s say you want to learn how to play the guitar but you’ve been putting it off. The guitar has been sitting in its case in your basement collecting dust. Clear says to make the new habit obvious. For example, you might be ‘cued’ to play the guitar if you take it out of your basement and put it in the middle of your living room. Clear also says the make the cue attractive, easy and satisfying. So maybe pick an easy song that you love and learn how to play it. If you’re still stuck, he says try the two-minute rule (play the guitar for only 2 minutes- chances are if you start, you will continue a little longer. Either way, you will better off than if you didn’t start at all). In this section, Clear also provides practical strategies for habit stacking and temptation bundling (which sounds oddly like my Rogers cable package). Section 3 -How To Break Bad Habits This third section of the book is dedicated to breaking bad habits, which Clear argues can be just as important as building good habits. He introduces the concept of habit reversal and offers strategies for identifying and replacing negative habits with positive ones. Clear also emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and intentional decision-making in breaking bad habits. Section Four – Advanced Tactics In the final section, Clear introduces advanced tactics for maintaining and improving habits over the long term. He discusses how to create an environment that supports good habits, how to overcome plateaus and setbacks, and how to use habits to achieve goals and live a more fulfilling life. Clear also touches on the power of identity-based habits and how changing our beliefs about ourselves can lead to lasting change. Atomic Habits is a well-researched and practical guide to creating positive change in our lives through the power of habits. Clear's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book easy to read and understand. His advice is backed by scientific research and real-world examples, giving readers confidence that the strategies he presents are effective.…
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