Joy of the Hang | Connection & Empowerment Stories

Hosted by Sharon Stevenson | Connection & Empowerment Host Join Sharon Stevenson on Joy of the Hang, a podcast dedicated to storytelling, connection, and empowerment. Explore how vulnerability and meaningful relationships impact your emotional wellbeing, spiritual health, and overall wellness. As a certified Health and Wellness Coach and former bodybuilder, Sharon dives deep into the eight pillars of health, shedding light on the importance of social and occupational wellness. Discover inspiring stories that empower you to foster connection, resilience, and a balanced lifestyle. If you're seeking authentic connection, emotional growth, and empowerment, this podcast is your sanctuary for wellness coaching and real-life wisdom. https://joyofthehang.com/

Joy of the Hang | Connection & Empowerment Stories is a society podcast hosted by Sharon Stevenson, with 96 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Sharon Stevenson hosts Joy of the Hang | Connection & Empowerment Stories, a society show with 96 episodes published.

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  Episode #97

  97. Human Trafficking Is Closer Than You Think: Monica Morton on the Myths, Warning Signs & Saving Lives

  Aug 18, 202658 minS2

  Send us Fan Mail Human trafficking isn't something that only happens in foreign countries or in Hollywood movies. It's happening in neighborhoods across America, often hiding in plain sight. In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang , Sharon Stevenson sits down with Monica Morton, one of the nation's leading experts on human trafficking, to uncover the truth behind one of the world's fastest-growing criminal enterprises. Drawing from decades of investigative work and survivor advocacy, Monica explains how traffickers groom victims, who is most at risk, and why so many misconceptions prevent people from recognizing the warning signs. She also shares what every parent, grandparent, educator, and community member should know to help protect those they love. This conversation is eye-opening, emotional, and ultimately hopeful. If you've ever believed, "It could never happen here," this episode may change your perspective forever. In this episode, you'll learn: • The biggest myths about human trafficking • Who is most vulnerable—and why • How traffickers use social media to groom victims • Warning signs every family should recognize • What to do (and what not to do) if you suspect someone is being trafficked • How awareness can save lives This isn't just another interview. It's information that could one day protect someone you love. If this episode impacted you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Awareness is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against human trafficking. Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang ! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang . If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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  Episode #96

  96. Finding Your Voice: Jazz Singer Barbara King on Music, Reinvention, and the Power of Following Your Dreams

  Aug 11, 202634 minS2

  Send us Fan Mail What happens when talent, timing, and purpose finally align? In this episode of Joy of the Hang , I sit down with acclaimed jazz vocalist Barbara King to discuss her remarkable journey from singing in the choir at college to sharing the stage with legendary artists like Patti LaBelle, Kirk Franklin, and Kirk Whalum. Barbara opens up about the courage it takes to pursue a creative calling, the lessons she's learned from decades in music, and why it's never too late to step fully into your purpose. We also discuss her acclaimed debut album, Perfect Timing , and how faith, perseverance, and authenticity have shaped her journey. Whether you're a lover of jazz, an aspiring artist, or someone contemplating a new chapter in life, Barbara's story is a powerful reminder that our dreams don't have expiration dates. In This Episode, We Discuss: Barbara's journey into jazz and inspirational music The meaning behind her album Perfect Timing Performing alongside legendary musicians How creativity and faith fuel resilience Reinvention and finding purpose later in life Why it's never too late to follow your dreams The role music plays in connection and healing Connect with Barbara King: https://www.barbarakingjazz.com Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that inspire connection, courage, and living with purpose. #JoyOfTheHang #BarbaraKing #JazzSinger #JazzMusic #InspirationalMusic #WomenInMusic #Reinvention #MusicAndHealing #Purpose #FollowingYourDreams Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang ! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang . If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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  Episode #95

  95. Emmy-Winning Journalist Julian Phillips on Racial Inequality, Media Bias, and the Future of Journalism

  Aug 4, 20261h 14mS2

  Send us Fan Mail What makes a great conversation? Is it asking the right questions, truly listening, or simply being present? In this episode of Joy of the Hang , I sit down with Julian Phillips , an Emmy-winning journalist whose career has spanned more than three decades in television news, including national roles at Fox News and a year serving as Deputy Commissioner of Public Information for the New York City Police Department. After spending a lifetime telling other people's stories, Julian opens up about the power of meaningful conversation, the importance of curiosity, and why food often becomes the bridge that brings people together. We also explore what happens when we step away from the noise of our busy lives and rediscover the simple joy of human connection. From breaking news and high-pressure communication to sharing meals and creating community, Julian's journey reminds us that our most meaningful moments often happen around a table and within authentic conversations. In This Episode, We Discuss: What makes someone a great storyteller Why curiosity is one of life's greatest gifts Lessons learned from decades in television journalism The role food plays in creating connection and community How meaningful conversations can change our relationships Why listening may be our most underrated skill Finding purpose and reinvention in a new chapter of life Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that inspire connection, curiosity, and a more meaningful life. #JoyOfTheHang #JulianPhillips #Storytelling #Journalism #HumanConnection #Conversation #FoodCulture #Community #EmmyWinner #SocialWellness Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang ! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang . If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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  Episode #94

  94. Can We Slow Aging? Dr. Sandra Kaufmann on the Science of Longevity and Living Better Longer

  Jul 28, 202651 minS2

  Send us Fan Mail What if aging isn't something that simply happens to us? What if we could influence how we age? In this episode of Joy of the Hang , I sit down with Dr. Sandra Kaufmann , physician, researcher, and author of The Kaufmann Protocol , to explore the cutting-edge science of longevity and what it really means to age well. Dr. Kaufmann explains why we age at the cellular level, the seven key mechanisms that drive aging, and how today's science may allow us to slow the process and improve both lifespan and healthspan. We also discuss practical strategies for protecting your brain, preserving your energy, and making choices today that could significantly impact how you feel decades from now. Whether you're 40, 60, or beyond, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about aging and leave you inspired to take charge of your future. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why we age at the cellular level The difference between lifespan and healthspan The seven drivers of aging How lifestyle choices influence longevity The role of supplements and emerging science What you can do today to age better tomorrow Why it's never too early—or too late—to invest in your future health Connect with Dr. Sandra Kaufmann: https://kaufmannprotocol.com Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that help you live with greater connection, purpose, and well-being. #JoyOfTheHang #SandraKaufmann #Longevity #HealthyAging #Biohacking #TheKaufmannProtocol #AntiAging #Healthspan #Wellness #AgingWell #SocialWellness Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang ! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang . If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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  Episode #93

  93. Healing Beyond Medicine: How Rest, Connection and Salt Therapy Can Transform Your Well-Being with Myra Maldonado

  Jul 21, 202654 minS2

  Send us Fan Mail What if true healing isn't found in doing more, but in slowing down? In this episode of Joy of the Hang , I sit down with Myra Maldonado , owner of Salt Caves & Spa, to explore the powerful connection between stress, wellness, and healing. We discuss why so many people are living in a constant state of overwhelm and how practices like salt therapy, mindfulness, and intentional self-care can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Myra shares her journey into the wellness industry, the science and benefits behind halotherapy (salt therapy), and why creating spaces for restoration and human connection may be one of the most important forms of medicine available today. If you've been feeling exhausted, disconnected, or simply in need of a reset, this conversation is your invitation to pause, breathe, and prioritize your well-being. In This Episode, We Discuss: The hidden effects of chronic stress on the body What salt therapy is and how it works Why rest is essential for healing The connection between wellness and human connection Practical ways to create more peace and balance in everyday life Why self-care is not selfish—it's necessary Connect with Myra Maldonado: https://thesaltcaveslwr.com/ Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that help you build connection, resilience, and a more meaningful life. #JoyOfTheHang #MyraMaldonado #SaltTherapy #Wellness #SelfCare #StressRelief #MentalHealth #Healing #SocialWellness #Connection Support the show Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang ! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang . If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

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