A Thought I Kept
A Thought I Kept is a podcast about the ideas that stay with us, long after we’ve forgotten the rest. In each episode, a guest shares the one thought that shaped their life — the one they couldn’t let go of, and maybe you won’t either.
A Thought I Kept
Joy, Grief, Squirrels, and the Real Work of Being Okay
In this special episode of 'A Thought I Kept,' host Claire Fitzsimons is joined by Amanda Sheeren, her close friend and co-founder of 'If Lost Start Here', a wellbeing company aimed at helping people navigate modern life's complexities with creativity, curiosity and humour.
This episode centers on Amanda’s thought that even in the dark times there is light. They discuss how the hardest and best parts of life can coexist, touching on topics such as parenting, depression, Instagram, sobriety, and finding joy in small moments. Amanda shares personal experiences, underscoring the importance of embracing both positive and negative emotions. The conversation also highlights mindfulness, intentional living, and the significance of community and connection in wellbeing practices.
01:26 Navigating Life's Challenges
07:23 The Power of Tiny Joys
10:13 Balancing Emotions
21:28 Creative Practices and Wellbeing
22:32 Exploring the 10 Pathways to Wellness
23:45 The Challenge of Untethering from Technology
24:13 Navigating Connection and Purpose
24:33 The Dual Nature of Technology
28:28 The Sober Illustrator: A Journey of Connection
30:36 Misconceptions About Sobriety
33:53 Living a Values-Based Life
38:57 Finding Joy in the Present Moment
43:51 Concluding Thoughts on Wellness and Joy
About Amanda Sheeren:
Amanda Sheeren is with Claire Fitzsimmons the co-founder of If Lost Start Here. She is also a freelance writer, illustrator, and graphic designer from Marin County, California. Amanda is the creator of The Sober Illustrator and Okay, Yeah! Design.
About Claire Fitzsimmons
Claire is the host of A Thought I Kept, a wellbeing writer and the co-founder of If Lost Start Here, a company on a mission to get people to a better place, sometimes literally. As an ICF Associate Certified Coach and a certified Emotions Coach Practitioner, Claire helps women navigate the everyday lost moments of their lives. Claire writes on Substack under MoreGoodDays.
Show notes
MaryCatherine McDonald, The Joy Reset: Six Ways Trauma Steals Happiness and How to Win it Back
Everything Everywhere All At Once
About If Lost Start Here and Us