I’ve dedicated my life and career to fostering relationships, delivering smiles, and connecting with community. That’s why we’re launching a new podcast, Celebrations Chatter, where I sit down with connectivity experts to share ideas, insights, and interesting points of view as we navigate meaningful ways to show up for each other.
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How do we adapt when life takes an unforeseen turn, especially when it involves our loved ones? In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, I sit down with Sara Cunningham, author of "How We Sleep at Night" and founder of Free Mom Hugs. Sara shares her powerful journey as a mother struggling to accept her son Parker's sexuality to becoming a passionat…
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In honor of Grandparents Day on September 8th, we’re sharing a special episode of Celebration Chatter about the joys and significance of being a grandparent. This episode features stories and perspectives on being a grandparent from past episodes of Celebrations Chatter (Oscar Munoz, Justin Batt, and Geoffrey Zakarian), as well as some previously u…
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Building Better Workplace Cultures with Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Scientist at Culture Partners
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim McCann sits down with Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Scientist of Workplace Culture at Culture Partners, for a discussion on building better workplace cultures. Jessica unpacks Culture Partners' approach to intentionally shaping workplace culture to drive results, and shares insights from her research on gen…
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with Colin Balfe, founder of Love What Matters. They discuss how Colin's personal experience with grief led him to build a community focused on uplifting content, which has touched millions of lives by sharing stories of hope, compassion, and human connection. The conversation explores resilien…
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In this inspiring episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim McCann sits down with Jordan Toma, who shares his powerful story of overcoming learning disabilities and behavioral challenges with the unwavering support of his #AmazingMom, Debbie. Jordan recounts how his mother's persistence and belief in him, even when he resisted, ultimately led him to att…
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with nutritionist Sophie Anson to discuss the evolving landscape of nutrition, health, and longevity. The conversation explores topics such as the importance of gut health, the essential elements necessary for weight loss, and the building blocks of a healthy diet. Sophie also offers her perspe…
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with John Rivers (founder of 4 Rivers Smokehouse and 4Roots Farm) for a conversation that delves into John's passion for creating a more sustainable food system, his innovative approaches to farming and nutrition education, and how his faith has guided him through challenges. John shares his in…
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How do we honor our friends’ legacies? This week on Celebrations Chatter, Jim welcomes Andrew Cotto, founder of Appetito Magazine and author of “Pasta Mike,” a touching novela written as a tribute to his late best friend. In this episode, Andrew shares the inspiring story of friendship behind the book, and why he felt it was important for him to wr…
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As we approach International Friendship Day, it is a great time to think about being intentional in our relationships so that we can show our dearest friends how we care. Jim is joined today by friends Dick Auletta, Larry Zarin, and frequent guest of the show Dr. George S. Everly Jr, to continue our exploration into friendship and connection. They …
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As we continue our focus on friendship, we turn our attention next toward how it relates to kindness. By being kind to one another, we can strengthen our friendships and build stronger connections with those around us. In this episode, Stuart Muszynski discusses his journey and the incredible work he's doing with the Values-in-Action Foundation and…
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Dr. Jan Yager, a sociologist and author who has written several books on how friendship and relationships enrich our lives, visits Celebrations Chatter to discuss how friends enrich our lives. This episode explores why having friends is so important to our well-being, how men and women experience friendship differently, what social media can do to …
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Celebrate 90 years of Harry & David’s delectable pears and edible gifts with Celebrations Chatter. Jim visits Medford, Oregon’s Rogue Valley to spend time with the incredible individuals who make Harry & David happen every day. In this episode, long-standing members of the Harry & David team share what the company means to them, the relationships t…
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On this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with Michael Clinton, author, photographer, and former magazine publishing executive, for a discussion on aging and longevity. Michael shares lessons from his bestselling book “ROAR Into the Second Half of Your Life (Before It’s Too Late),” which provides readers with techniques and guidance fo…
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How can businesses make a positive impact in the world? Chris Carneal, Founder of Booster Enterprises, shares how his interest in entrepreneurship led him to create a company that upholds his values of faith, family, and work. In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Chris and Jim discuss the relationship between principles and career, the power of…
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Filmmaker and The Skin Deep Founder Topaz Adizes joins Jim to share insights on communication and relationships. The conversation explores Topaz’s journey from filmmaking to becoming an experience design architect, and how he uses his platform to help people strengthen their connections through deep conversations. Topaz and Jim also discuss the way…
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Investor, author, and entrepreneur Anthony Scaramucci returns to Celebrations Chatter to share lessons from his career and his new book, “From Wall Street to the White House and Back.” Anthony and Jim explore his book’s 25 lessons essential to building unbreakable resilience, and how forming strong relationships helps us maintain our strength in th…
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New York Stock Exchange Group President Lynn Martin joins Jim for a discussion on how technological shifts have affected the US and global economy. Lynn shares her pioneering career journey from computer programmer to financial leadership, and how these two fields intersect in her current role. This discussion highlights the evolving landscape of t…
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In this episode, Jim sits down with Heather Campbell, the founder of Ready Set Recover, to delve into her inspiring journey from a successful career in media to becoming an entrepreneur and an amazing mom. Heather discusses the motivation behind starting Ready Set Recover and the pivotal role mindset, support, and self-advocacy play in the surgical…
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On today’s episode of Celebrations Chatter, Nicole Saphier shares her inspiring story of motherhood and perseverance. Nicole shares her journey from becoming a young mother to board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologist, and how she accomplished this through determination and with her family’s support. Jim and Nicole also discuss her …
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Jim sits down with culinary expert and media personality Caro Chambers to delve into her career as a chef and content creator. Caro reflects on her journey to becoming an influencer and emphasizes the role of community in shaping her path. She also discusses how she balances between her remarkable success and family life, offering insights into how…
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Despite being an essential skill for adulthood, only around half of American adults are considered financially literate. Benjamin Talks Co-Founders Carissa Jordan and Nikki Boulukos are on a mission to change this by outfitting the next generation with tools, resources, and habits that support proper money management. On this episode of Celebration…
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Explore the business behind sustainable products with Jeff Yurcisin, CEO of Grove Collaborative. In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim and Jeff discuss the impacts of plastics on our environment and our health, Grove’s commitment to being plastic-neutral, and how businesses can help solve challenging societal issues. New podcast episodes rel…
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Jim sits down with Dr. Monique Andrews, a teacher and scholar in Embodied Neuroscience, for a conversation on the relationship between our mind and body. The two discuss how the principles of mindfulness can help us manage chronic illness, live longer and more fulfilling lives, and heal from trauma. Dr. Mo also shares how she is empowering others t…
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In this special episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim turns over the hosting seat to friend of the show Dr. George S. Everly Jr for a behind the scenes look at the podcast’s 100 episode run. George and Jim discuss the creation of Celebrations Chatter and how it supports his personal mission of helping people have more and better relationships. Jim a…
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Grammy-nominated songwriter and record producer Billy Mann sits down with Jim for an insightful discussion on the world of music. Together, the two discuss today’s popular music landscape and how social media and consumer trends have affected it. Billy shares insights from his career collaborating with top performers and industry leaders such as P!…
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In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Jim catches up with Randy Lewis, former Walgreens Vice President and author of “No Greatness without Goodness.” Randy shares how he was able to build an inclusive workplace for people with disabilities at Walgreens, and how his own experience raising a child with autism inspired him to help cr…
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Jim sits down with political activist and former US presidential candidate Andrew Yang to discuss his new movement, the Forward Party. Andrew shares his story from Venture for America to presidential hopeful, as well as his candidacy in the 2021 New York City Mayoral race. They discuss how the Forward Party’s philosophy is neither left or right, bu…
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In this week's episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim talks with Tamsen Fadal to discuss her transition from journalist to midlife advocate. Sharing her own journey as an example, Tamsen creates content aimed at helping other women navigate challenges, seize opportunities, foster wellness in health and relationships, and much more. Tune in for an epi…
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The best connections start with good communication. In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist and author, to discuss his newest book “Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection.” Jim and Charles discuss how social behavior is influenced by changing techno…
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Jim catches up with Alan Patricof, a pioneer in the venture capital world. With a career spanning more than five decades, Alan has been at the forefront of many of the major technological and social revolutions of his time. He hasn’t slowed down, at 86, Alan started his new venture firm Primetime Partners, which funds early-stage startups that brin…
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim sits down with “Staten Island’s Favorite Son,” radio and podcast host Frank Morano. They cover a wide array of topics, including maintaining relationships, the criminal justice system, politics and the power of AM radio. Jim and Frank also share their mutual admiration for one another’s innovative approa…
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In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim McCann interviews Dr. Gary Chapman, counselor, minister, and author of the bestselling book "The 5 Love Languages." Dr. Chapman discusses the principles behind deeper human connection and the consistency of the five love languages across cultures. Tune in to learn how you can strengthen your relationship…
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Holland America Line's Chief Marketing Officer, Kacy Cole, joins Jim for a conversation on hospitality, family bonding, and building a brand with longevity. In this in-depth discussion, we learn the secrets behind Holland America’s flagship Alaska cruises and how personal touches make all the difference. Tune in to gain insights into how Holland Am…
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Are you a lifelong learner? In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Jim interviews Dr. Dan Willingham, Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia and Author of the book "Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy." Dr. Willingham discusses his research in cognitive psychology, as well as how to apply his lear…
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Jim sits down with Matt Ritter and Aaron Karo, long-time friends and hosts of the hit podcast "Man of the Year," to discuss adult male relationships. They explore the importance of rituals in maintaining long-standing relationships and how the concept of social fitness is crucial to those friendships. Tune in to hear Matt and Aaron, the friendship …
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Just in time for the 25th anniversary of The Sopranos, Jim welcomes Robert Funaro, Jason Cerbone, and Dan Grimaldi. The three discuss how the bond they formed working together led them to create Omerta Caffe’s Sopranos-inspired coffee. They share interesting stories from the set, as well as the diverse range of roles they’ve had on stage and screen…
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Before the New Year, Jim sat down with the CEO of Musicians on Call, Pete Griffin, EVP at iHeartMedia and MOC Chairperson, Alissa Pollack, and the singer-songwriter and recording artist, Gavin DeGraw, to discuss the healing effects of music. This conversation highlights how music can deeply affect us, help us create memories and relationships, and …
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In this thought-provoking conversation, Jim sits down with cultural commentator and New York Times columnist David Brooks to discuss his newest book, "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen." Beginning with how to best address the growing loneliness epidemic, this episode explores relationships and connections b…
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The live event landscape is changing - what does this mean for fans? In this episode, Jim interviews Paul Caine, President of IMG Events and On Location, two companies paving the way in immersive fan experiences. They discuss the philosophy behind immersive events and how this rising phenomenon has changed the way consumers interact with sports and…
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While AI, digital communication, and other technological innovations are giving us new ways to connect and create with each passing day, author David Sax has noticed an interesting trend: “For many people, the best parts of quarantine have been the least digital ones.” David visits Celebrations Chatter to discuss this phenomenon, what the relations…
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Actress, producer, activist, and author Kerry Washington joins Jim this week on Celebrations Chatter to share the journey that led to her writing her new memoir, “Thicker Than Water,” where she shares her parternity story. Kerry and Jim discuss the power of rituals in giving us comfort and meaning, and share a few of their favorites (including one …
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In this captivating episode, Jim and Dr. George S. Everly, Jr. Ph.D., ABPP, FAPA, FAPM, engage in a fireside chat live at the 1-800-Flowers.com, Inc. leadership conference, unraveling their remarkable collaboration. Join them as they explore actionable steps for personal and leadership development. Dr. Everly, a Renaissance man and psychologist ser…
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In this poignant episode, Jim talks with grief expert David Kessler about navigating life while mourning (especially as we approach the holiday season). They discuss the importance of community, maintaining rituals, and how the act of giving can offer comfort to individuals in mourning. This conversation provides listeners with guidance, strategies…
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Discover the issues facing aging Americans and their families with M.T. Connolly, author of "The Measure of Our Age." M.T. a national expert of elder justice, and Jim explore various aspects of aging, caregiving, and the societal and economic challenges associated with our aging population. M.T. emphasizes the need for awareness and action in carin…
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Working caregivers, adults who balance a career while caring for an ailing friend or family member, often struggle with a lack of support and understanding from their employers and society at large. To discuss this growing issue, Jim is joined by Rhonda Klug, Head of Community Relations at Harry & David, along with Selma Archer and Zack Demopoulos,…
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Karen Worcester tells the story of Wreaths Across America and their year-long mission: REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who served, and TEACH the next generation the value of freedom. Hear how one small act of patriotism by Karen and her family grew into a cultural movement with millions of volunteers across the country culminating in National Wrea…
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Rackets, Radio, and Resilience: John McConnell’s Life in Tennis, Broadcast, and Philanthropy
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Radio industry veteran and talent agent John McConnell shares the stories and secrets that defined his career in media. Hear how a life-altering bike accident inspired him to work with The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and help others who have experienced severe spinal injuries. Get a peak behind the curtain in the world of broadcasting and l…
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Music, Humor, and Travel: The Secrets to Bringing People Closer Together with Bob Guccione Jr.
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Spin Magazine Founder Bob Guccione Jr’s passion for writing has taken him across the world as a journalist, editor, and publisher. His globetrotting, adventurous spirit led Bob to his current venture, the irreverent travel publication WONDERLUST. This conversation highlights the power that music, humor, food, and travel have to bring us together an…
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Mentors, Role Models, & Opportunities: Sandy Climan's Insights from the Entertainment Industry
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Explore the fascinating world of entertainment through the eyes of industry titan Sandy Climan. From his Bronx beginnings to scaling the heights of Hollywood, Sandy shares stories of mentorship, resilience and the A-listers that have defined his illustrious career. Jim and Sandy’s discussion spotlights the importance of giving back and guiding the …
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Mastering The Art Of Communication: The Secrets To Better Conversations & Relationships with Dr. Jonah Berger
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Jim delves into the intriguing world of language with Dr. Jonah Berger, a renowned expert in natural language processing, influence, and consumer behavior. Dr. Berger, author of "Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way," unveils six types of "magic words'' that can transform your communication and impact across all aspects of life. Learn these sec…
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