Decision Diaries Podcast

This episode talks about deciding to go on a few getaways a year with your friends without your spouse. Lynn and Bruce share their experiences of how going on a "no spouse allowed" vacation with friends is good idea to become closer to their same sex friends. Learn how traveling with a friend can also take you places maybe you never thought you would enjoy going. Or maybe your spouse just isn't interested in going to same places as your friends. Like a Vegas trip where you watch 24 hours of football on 10 different screens. Not Lynn's vacation dream but it works for Bruce's boys' trip. 

Random roses and happy socks. What? In this episode, Lynn reminds herself to look and listen for opportunities to be kind every day. Drawing from inspiration from the children’s book Have You Filled a Bucket Today?—that she read to her children when they were younger. She talks about deciding to avoid turning grumpy as she ages and asks the question: "why don't adults read this book? We are the ones that need reminding. Because, let’s face it, why not inspire to be a great a bucket-filler and make the world a better place with smaller acts of kindness?

All parents wonder as they drop off their children for their first year of college: "Will my children make good decisions their first year away from home?". In this episode, a Freshman college student reviews his past year experience of both good and bad decisions. From Dean's List to epic failures - the first year of college is a rollercoaster for students and parents. Like any ride - it is only after it ends that you appreciate it. Buckle up and get ready for your great ride!

Who makes the most important life decisions in critical situation? Simple: Paramedics and Emergency Medics. Find out how Jason Chang discovered his passion to help people in their crucial time of need. Also, learn some simple triage tactics so you can be prepared if you find yourself waiting for a paramedic hero to arrive. 

Have you ever had a creative idea and thought I wonder if I can actually do it? This episode will help you get started, remove any self doubt and get that creative project moving! From exploring making decorative soaps to daily photography challenges, no matter what the project - you will succeed in finding your creative self along the way! Be curious about your ability to do something creative!

How do you choose the right car for you? Is it about function or style? Do you care about gas mileage or color? This week Lynn celebrates paying off her favorite car and talks about all of the poor car choices she made prior. They also share their past mistakes hoping you will avoid them. Cars are a big purchase decision - you should love yours especially if you are making regular payments!

So many decisions when it comes to owning a dog, What breed? Girl or Boy? Short hair or long hair? Big or Small? Puppy or Older dog? Picking a dog name? Lynn and Bruce share their dog decisions and experience with the most challenging dog breeds. One dog so challenging it has a special Facebook group dedicated to it! 

Celebrating the 50th episode as a major milestone, Lynn and Bruce share the story of how the Podcast originated. They talk about the purpose "The Why?" that motivates them to keep the Podcast going. It isn't for the likes, to make money or become famous. It is to connect to other humans and give them an opportunity to share their decision stories. Here's to running out of Podcast cards and getting to 100 episodes!

What is Lion Dancing? Great storytelling, a tribute to Chinese tradition and a martial arts workout all in one performance. Meet Jason and Joshua as they describe where this tradition originated and how they became so passionate about sharing it with the community. As you listen, imagine yourself personifying a Lion or a Monk! Reach out because Lion Dance troupes are always looking for new members and always adding new Lions!

Why should you decide to coach? Bruce Layfield, a long time soccer coach, talks about his realization that coaching brings more joy than playing or winning. Lynn shares an usual benefit after watching Bruce coach before they were married. You may want to sign up to be a coach after this episode!

Lynn's father, Russ describes becoming a father and all of the decisions he made as he raised his two daughters. Jobs he took or didn't take based on their location. And the introduction of a new bedtime story routine with the invention of the "Taco eating Billy Goat" who travels to ball parks and runs away from the Mafia.

On this episode, we decided to celebrate fathers all week long rather than one single day. Father's Day gift buying is hard and Lynn shares some funny Father's Day gift fails. What does any Father want? Often referred as the "Forgotten Holiday" - Bruce shares his parenting experience and tries to describe what all father's really want.

In this episode, we explore the decision to learn a new language. The decision seems easy with unlimited benefits. However, our guest James Smith, describes the two most important: People and Mental Health. This episode will get you inspired and asking yourself: "When can I start?" Our guest provides the help you need. He leaves you with useful tips like language apps, podcasts, in-person learning techniques with local meetups and daily routine practice (foreign films, foreign music channels). We hope you join him on a new language journey of your own!

Picking a college major is hard. Hear how one college student has zero regrets after he completed his freshman year majoring in hospitality. This episode has practical insights about fun college classes and life long job perks. This major makes you want to go back to college and actually study. Included an "I told you so" moment from his mom. 

Deciding to live alone without roommates is a sure sign that your child is becoming a grown up. A decision that had to be recorded since it is the first time a mom hears her son say they want be responsible for cleaning and cooking. If you you are a parent of a twenty something who keeps debating whether they really want to keep living with roommates (or perhaps overstaying their time back with the family), this episode is worth sharing to show them how easy it is to start adulting. 

Ebikes - do or do not? Bruce and Lynn decide to rent ebikes to see if they can tackle the unattainable trails that contain long, steep climbs with roots. They discover that ebikes add more to a ride than just extra power - they add enjoyment, time, and distance while still providing a great workout! Hear the most important thing to consider when renting an ebike. It will help you get the most out of your ride.

Why buy art? Hear how a single painting started a life long journey of buying art from galleries, art festivals and art auctions on cruise ships. Our guest David Ruscitto describes all of the amazing experiences and benefits that only buying art can give you. 

This episode contains a lighthearted conversation about making better food choices so you don't feel old too soon. Lynn's sister-in-law Peggy Smith, who seemed to shrink overnight, talks about deciding to really think before she eats one meal at a time. Listen to practical every day tips that really help you enjoy food again. After all, food is life so it should make you feel good. The key is knowing what food brings you joy and makes you feel good after you eat just enough. Hint: This may even be a cookie. Don't deny just be make a conscious choice one meal at a time. 

How does a conversation in 2020 at a taco restaurant result in Lynn's co-worker deciding to purchase an Airstream camper? Listen to the story about a single woman in her 60's becoming a part of a growing community of women buying RVs and camping alone. An important episode to learn about Airstreams, camping and oh yeah "implied" meaning of flamingo and pineapple decor around your campsite!

Lynn and Bruce wake up on Saturday before "Tax Monday" and decide they need a happy escape from their life of work and repeat. But what to do? They decide to return to Disney after a 4 year break. They recall the differences between being annual pass members in 2020 with their children to being members in 2024 as empty nesters. The decision gives them a spontaneous burst of excitement as they begin the drive while working through the logistics and financial tradeoffs. Hear the story of how they FaceTime their kids to make them jealous and text the other empty nesters to join them.

Don't say no. Deciding to witness an eclipse is like RSVPing to the universe's most exclusive show. Lynn talks to two guests: Kate Curler future 2024 eclipse watcher and Joe Grillo - Past 2017 eclipse watcher. Sharing tips and other random eclipse info you probably won't hear from stuffy fact based sources. Pack your eclipse travel kit: cocktails, sunscreen, snacks, and those oh-so-chic eclipse glasses. Every eclipse adventure is a cosmic comedy waiting to happen. So buckle up, stargazers, and head out ready for your eclipse experience!

Hear the story unfold as mother and daughter sit down to discuss with Lynn, her daughter's decision to start marathon running and her marathon goal of running on every continent. You would be surprised what motivated her to begin running as well as the next continent that she plans to check off her list. This episode demonstrates the unbreakable bond between family and the pursuit of dreams!

Curious on how to find shark teeth and the best places to look in Florida? You may be surprised that it isn't always at the beach. Join us as we interview a retired cancer nurse who decided to become a shark tooth adventure tour founder. An avid researcher - she is both teacher, environment advocate and passionate about sharks!

Welcome to our latest episode where we talk about the necessary yet sometimes overwhelming summer vacation planning decisions for "ADD like" families. We'll share funny experiences to help you avoid our mistakes and some unique ideas to make your vacation memorable. As always, being real and unfiltered with stories of vacation fighting and unplanned bear experiences!

In the this episode, Lynn and Wendy talk about the good and the bad side of Artificial Intelligence. They discover that embracing AI is not just keeping up with cool technology to stay hip but using it as a creative brainstorming tool. Tune in for a beginners look and lessons on deciding to use AI in every day life! 

This episode Lynn and her husband Bruce discuss a "what if" decision. The decision topic "a Walking Dead" like Apocalypse. Packed full of family decisions, laughter and the realization that maybe they need some survival training. Could they survive? Could you? Do you have the skills?

Ever wondered what it's like to be the ultimate decision-maker with the whole world scrutinizing your every move? Welcome to the life of World Cup Soccer Referees! In this episode, we sit down with Sean Hurd, who juggles the art of refereeing while balancing a full-time job and a family life. Get ready to hear Sean describe how he manages to keep his cool in the heat of the game, all while dodging food throwing from misbehaving fans during corner kicks and catching players sometimes performing for penalties. Join us as we uncover the decisions that lead to Sean's referee success, both on and off the pitch!

Tune in for a hilarious take on the highs and lows of Valentine's Day! Jami returns to discuss big romantic decisions on this day of all days starting from elementary school to present 2024. Recorded actually on Valentine's Day - you hear the embarrassing, empowering, and the epic fails to express love. Love or Loathe this holiday - this episode will at least make you laugh and learn from our mistakes!

Interested in going to a cosplay convention like Comic Con or just wondering what it is all about? Cosplay guru - Feanix Poole will share some tips and tricks for creating costumes. She also breaks down key decisions to have the most fun, first timer experience! Whether you're a comic book fan, a cosplayer, or simply curious about pop culture, this episode provides valuable insights and advice for navigating the exciting world of comic cons!

Lynn and her “cool” friend Undine reflect back on their decisions to rent an Escapevan - a unique campervan painted by artists. Each family decided to vacation along the West Coast and Utah. Get ready for bad planning and unforgettable moments. Our campers have seen it all – and lived to laugh about it. With each hilarious campground, they prove that sometimes the best memories are made when things don't quite go according to plan.

So, if you're in need of a good chuckle and some inspiration to embrace campervan life with its unexpected twists and turns, prepare to laugh your way through the wild and wonderful world of camping! 

Imagine watching your kindergartener trying to learn on a Zoom call in 2020 and wondering if next year was going to be more of the same. This mom decided that she couldn't take that chance and made the big decision to home school - something she never planned to do! Hear her story and lessons learned!

Do you attend professional conferences? It all seems fun and exciting - you register, pick up your swag, and get inspired with your professional peers. Well...hear the story about the person that makes the conference possible. Think you could do that job? You may find that it takes nerves of steal, quick thinking and the ability to laugh at the unexpected events like flooding rooms, broken air conditioning, no-show volunteers and the worst of all unsolicited feedback during the event by non-event planners. Hint: Save feedback for comment cards after the event. Laugh and learn about this interesting profession!

Imagine auditioning in front of Mattel and being selected to represent the human form of not one but multiple Barbies! Walk into Walmart and see your picture in all of the picture frames. Move out to LA, get selected to appear on Suddenly Susan, and an episode of Friends. Join us and hear all about the life of a model/actress and share in the experiences of our guest Charity Nicole James!

Is someone your dating moving away or going to a different college? Wondering if you have what it takes to keep the relationship alive. Listen to a young couple who are now living in two different cities. They have made it work from being 45 minutes to 15 hours apart! 

Thinking about entering your high school pageant? Lynn interviews the shy daughter of her pageant escort as she decides to enter the very same pageant 37 years later. Hear her reaction to watching her dad in the opening dance and lots of bad 1987 pageant outfits. Although, not everything has changed. Learn how pageants are still a great way for girls with different interests to get to know each other and become close friends!

What are your favorite Xmas traditions? Lynn with her husband and two older children reflect on the good and bad traditions over the years. This episode makes you appreciate the people in your life who create and keep traditions alive. 

Join Simple Mercies author to hear her journey from a 40th Birthday "works of mercy" challenge that started as a blog and ended in a published book inspiring kindness. Learn how every day everyone has the ability to be kind!

Looking for a sport that will keep you in the moment, outdoors, traveling to unique places and boosting your confidence? Decide to mountain bike. Lynn and Misty Mahoy discuss all of the benefits of being a part of this great community! Join us for a ride and have a beer with us after! 

Deciding to leave a job or part of a massive layoff - Lynn and Wendy have some stories to keep you laughing and looking at the lighter side of job hunting. Stop worrying. Keep your head up and repeat after us - you will work again! 

Hear from the mother of two young sons as she navigates the unfamiliar world of modeling and acting. Ultimately, landing national ad campaigns for Dicks Sporting Goods, Mazda and a potential pilot. 

Two couples look back on their decision to get married on the same day at the same time - 25 years ago! Lots of laughter which we hope is contagious! 

What does life look like after the kids are gone? Redecorate the kids' rooms? Eat out every night? Buy a pet to be your new child? Special guest Ciarla Molino, mother of two boys and 1 year of empty nesting, shares her journey with new 3 month empty nester Lynn. Some great suggestions especially a new Tuesday night tradition! 

What does life look like after losing a spouse? Special guest: Lynn's 83 year old father shares his story of decision you have to make and how to create a happy second half of your life. A special episode published on the 10th year anniversary of his wife's (Lynn's mother's) passing. 

Perfect 13th episode theme to tell funny stories about costume decisions past, present and future. Recorded 2 days before Halloween. Lynn, Jami and Bruce discuss all the choices from dressing up dogs, spouses and more importantly challenging everyone to buy discounted, sexy, post Halloween costumes as a special couple treat!

Jami talks about her favorite part time job - selling sex toys! A funny story of being creative to earn money by using your sense of humor and ability to talk about taboo topics. Do you think you could be a host or host a party? Hear how a part-time job can lead to lifetime of laughs!

So your expecting a baby and not sure whether to leave your career and stay at home? Then this is the episode for you. Candid discussion about the ups and downs of staying at home. Like creative financing, marriage communication and mental challenges like boredom. Funny stories of creative ways to earn money, find support groups and the most important lesson of all - what to do during nap time? 

Jami provides her experience and more importantly the red flags to look out for when you begin to date after a divorce. Lynn reminds Jami about the fun side of dating which included calling her long distance to share the details of her new relationships aka "sampling new ice cream flavors". A serious yet insightful discussion that should encourage everyone recently divorced to feel hopeful that they will find a new life partner once they are ready!

Lynn shares the embarrassing diary entries when she decided to send an Ex a Love Letter in 1995 to express her love with the hope to inspire him to get back together. Jami finds all of her Love Letters and shares what she decided to do with them. Find out what happens after the Love Letters are received! A feel good episode that everyone can relate to whether they have sent or received Love Letters. Lots of laughs!

On this episode, Lynn's first born son Sean discusses his decision to go down the untraditional route to drop out of college and pursue a Jiu Jitsu career in Austin, TX. Sean talks about his passion for Jiu Jitsu, joining B Team and the overall profession. Sean also talks about the impact of being a 2020 High School graduate and the disappointment with online college classes. A great episode for parents to learn how to let go and support their children when they find their "Why" in life!

Proving again that no decision topic is off limits. Lynn and Jami discuss a decision that each person only gets one chance to make: losing their virginity. Lynn shares her mother's advice that helped her to wait for the right time. Jami shares her steamy, camp experience and asks the one question that Lynn will not answer. We hope this episode leaves you with a smile on your face!

Lynn, Jami and Bruce (Lynn's husband) discuss the most important decision in a marriage - knowing when to ask for help. Help comes in several forms: a movie tradition, Jami as a moderator, and a counseling competition. A funny yet serious discussion that leaves listeners with practical tips to apply to any relationship married or not. Enjoy and share!

Lynn and Jami along with their guest Roger discuss selling and closing a business. Hear the funny story of how Lynn and Roger know each other. Details that clearly Roger forgot but Lynn doesn't hesitate to remind him. Roger talks about the beginning of his restaurant business, impact of 2020 and finding the best buyer to "adopt" his business. Lynn shares her diary of trying to sell her store in 1996 and the final days of her store closing. 

In this episode, Jami and Lynn with a special guest Lynn's husband discuss their decisions to move in together prior to being married. A lost shoe, financial motivation, and roommates stenciling an apartment in the middle of the night - all lead to moving in together. Hear the funny story of telling a 6 foot 7 future father-in-law that you plan to move in with their daughter and more. 

In this episode, Jami decides to create a 50 First Dates Challenge to try to find love again after her divorce in her 40s. She launches a Facebook group to find other people to participate with her and post their updates as they complete the challenge. This Facebook group still exists today. Join us to hear how the challenge went and what she learned along the way. 

In this episode, Lynn and Jami talk about the importance of the "Why?" to inspire the creation of a business. Taking on the challenge and leaving their stable careers applying for loans, borrowing money from their children and bootstrapping to become Entrepreneurs. Hear about the ups and downs. Stay until the end to hear about the unusual perk of owning a business!

Single and out of college - Jami and Lynn have a decision to make in their mid 20s: Love or Lust? After a trip to New Orleans, Lynn convinces Jami that lust is the way to go. After all, one day they will be 40 (which they considered old at the time). Their second decision: who will they choose to be their lover? Now in their young 50s, they are ready to kiss and tell. No regrets! No Do-overs!

In this episode, Lynn and Jami discuss the inspiration that lead to the decision to start a podcast together. Friends for 32 plus years, they were born in the same small town in Texas at the same hospital 20 days apart and became friends in college at University of Florida. They are very different. Lynn is a Catholic, Republican living in Florida and celebrating her 25th wedding anniversary this year. Jami is a Jewish, Democrat living in California who is divorced and recently moved in with her new boyfriend. Come join the laughter as we discuss all kinds of decisions with no regrets!