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In this inspiring episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Cheryl Rice, founder of the You Matter Marathon, to share how two simple words, "You Matter", ignited a global movement of kindness and human connection.

What began with one small act of compassion in a grocery store has reached millions across more than 100 countries, reminding people everywhere of their worth and the power of being seen. Cheryl opens up about her journey, the ripple effects of kindness, and why this message is more essential than ever.

Whether you’re seeking hope, purpose, or a reminder that you matter too, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you to make a difference, one card, one person, one moment at a time.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
02:43 - The story that inspired “You Matter”
05:00 - The first year: 14 countries and 30,000
08:32 - What changed in Cheryl after that moment
people
15:12 - From one card to over 3 million shared
18:23 - Heart-touching “You Matter” stories from around the world
23:54 - The philosophy of “we,” not “me”
28:51 - Overcoming comparison and rediscovering self-worth
36:00 - Why reminding others they matter truly matters
42:40 - Traditional Psychology vs. Positive Psychology
47:13 - Embracing every emotion — the real path to wholeness
52:56 - Wholeness and self-acceptance: loving all parts of yourself

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In this inspiring episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Kevin Smith, founder of Kindness Worldwide, to share how a single lost wallet on Good Friday sparked a global movement of compassion. Together, they explore how small acts of kindness can create powerful ripple effects that change lives, heal communities, and even save them.

From his roots working on his grandfather’s farm to honoring the legacy of his late mother, Kevin reveals the values that shaped his conviction that “the meaning of life is to live it in a way to make a meaningful difference.” He opens up about the challenges of stepping into a new calling, the growth that comes from embracing discomfort, and the vision behind Kindness Week Worldwide.

Whether you want to reignite hope, practice gratitude, or be reminded of the power of kindness, this heartfelt conversation will inspire you to make a difference, one act at a time.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
02:28 - A Shared Love for Guitars
07:17 - The Birth of Kindness Worldwide
13:10 - The Lost Wallet Story on Good Friday 2023
16:43 - Launch of Kindness Worldwide Nonprofit
20:25 - Ripple Effects: No Act of Kindness is Too Small
29:44 - Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
38:26 - Growth, Fear, and Becoming Fearless
45:10 - Gratitude as the Foundation of Kindness

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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitude
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitude
Website: https://www.sparksofgratitude.com

Do you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:
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In this empowering episode of Sparks of Gratitude, host Randy Sparks welcomes Jill Schulman, a former U.S. Marine, leadership expert, and author of The Bravery Effect, to explore the true meaning of bravery. Together, they dive into how fear holds us back, why courage is built through daily habits, and how embracing discomfort can unlock growth, resilience, and joy.

From lessons learned in the Marine Corps to insights rooted in psychology and neuroscience, Jill shares practical strategies for building a courageous mindset, taking bold action, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

Whether you’re striving to overcome fear, elevate your happiness, or step into the life you truly want, this conversation will inspire you to choose courage over regret and start doing the hard things that matter most.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
03:35 - What bravery really means (not being fearless)
04:02 - Why Jill wrote The Bravery Effect
07:08 - Positive psychology and elevating happiness
09:04 - Jill’s Marine Corps background and first struggles
12:34 - Building bravery with small daily decisions
14:03 - Confidence boost at Officer Candidate School
16:50 - Gratitude letters and embracing challenges
20:27 - Myths and misconceptions about bravery
23:07 - Comfort vs. growth: why discomfort matters
26:21 - Stress reframing: fear as a signal to move forward
30:30 - The buffalo vs. cow storm analogy
36:35 - Daily bravery practice: 15-second pause exercise
44:00 - Bravery model: Mindset, Action, Connection (three doors)
48:05 - Importance of your “brave tribe” (who you surround yourself with)
51:07 - Stories of mentors and people who believed in Jill
57:38 - Strive, don’t just arrive: finding meaning beyond milestones
01:01:10 - Advice to teenage self: dream big, swing for the fences
01:04:06 - Jill Schulman’s New Book: https://www.jillschulman.com/book

Follow Sparks of Gratitude:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksofgratitude/?hl=en
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sparksofgratitude
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparksofgratitude
Website: https://www.sparksofgratitude.com

Do you know someone who we should have on the show? Email us:
info@sparksofgratitude.com