8 ways to encourage a friend, by Jon Swanson

Jon Swanson featured this list of eight ways to encourage a friend. (Love guys who recognize the importance and value of friendship - Jon, you rock!) Thanks to Jon for sharing his list:

1. Take a picture (of your friend, of the two of you, of a cow, of a sign). Print it out (snapfish, flickr, walgreens, your own printer). Write a note telling them specifically how they are making a difference in lives. Mail it to them.

2. When they are in the middle of a busy day, send them a text.

3. Remember their birthday (Facebook, your birthday email from last year).

4. Take five minutes and make a mindmap. Here’s what that is: Put their name in the middle of a piece of paper. Around it make five lists: odd things they do; ways they care about others; objects or activities they love most; things THEY want to do better (NOT what YOU want them to do better); people who speak well of them. Put this paper next to your computer and include items from it in your notes and emails and conversations with them. (It tells them you thought about them).

5. Gossip good about them to a mutual friend.

6. Forgive them (don’t tell them about it, just forgive them).

7. Reply to their emails, even if just to acknowledge receipt.

8. Never assume they know you care.
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I love his ideas and encourage you to share more ways to encourage a friend! So girlfriends, how do you make your friend feel as special as her friendship is to you!

Girlfriends ... Remember Who You Wanted To Be!

Why not remember who you wanted to be ... and then become that?! As girlfriends we have the opportunity to inspire, encourage and support each other in the journey of life as we hopefully strive for happiness and the possibility of being the person we wanted to be as a sweet, innocent child.

Listen in to the newest Girlfriendology podcast with JODY ENGLAND, from BuzZen for inspiration on how to achieve your goals and live your best life. Or as she describes it, experience what happens when the Law of Attraction meets Girls Night Out!

Have a perfect week. Make progress on your dreams and share the journey with a girlfriend.

p.s. For extra girlfriend support, Jody offered a two-month free membership in "The Hive" - the community of BuzZen girlfriends. Visit The Hive for your free membership.

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Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with JODY ENGLAND, BuzZen Co-founder

It's no 'secret,' the Law of Attraction caused quite a buzzzzz a few years ago. Where did that energy go? How did/can women use the Law of Attraction to make 'real' changes in their lives?

JODY ENGLAND, co-founder of BuzZen, joined us on the latest Girlfriendology podcast to help us put the Law of Attraction in action! Hear how BuzZen provides community, conscious gifts and coaching - all key elements in making the rest of your life radically different than had you not heard the 'buzz.'

Jody studied the Law of Attraction and, along with her girlfriend Kim Yardlay, decided to make the Law of Attraction a reality for all of us who aspire to living life to our potential. A successful entrepreneur and former therapist, counseling at-risk families, children, and individuals, Jody has transformed her unique blend of experience as a leading voice in both the business world and the nonprofit arena, to empowering women to grant themselves permission to unlock their personal power.

Together Jody and Kim founded BuzZen. BuzZen is a company founded on the principles of contribution and inclusion, designed to appeal to women of all backgrounds, religions and ethnicities and welcome one and all. They believe that through connecting at our deepest level of “sister,” we are all empowered and enriched.

Before we share any more, let's look at these 'lessons from a girlfriend' from our podcast interview with Jody England of BuzZen:

* REAL CHANGE HAPPENS WITH GIRLFRIENDS - As Jody mentioned in the podcast, we can make change on our own but often it doesn't make a difference since there is no one to hold us accountable, encourage us and help us through the process. Unless, of course, you make the change in your life WITH your girlfriends. BuzZen does this by creating a program for small groups of women to go through the process in the BuzZen box and make the transformation together. (The BuzZen Box was featured in the Academy Award Nominee bags!)

* HAVE FUN! - I'll just stereotype here ... when women get together, we almost always have FUN! Of course the same is true for women in "The Hive" (the BuzZen community). Not metaphysical or magical, they're really all about the friendships and fun (oh, and bee-ing transformed which is a wonderful change to accomplish with your girlfriends!). As they describe it, it is like the Law of Attraction meets Girls Night Out!

* PUT THE LAW OF ATTRACTION TO ACTION - The popularity of 'The Secret' was made hugely popular on Oprah. It wasn't just the celebrity endorsement, the Law of Attraction is powerful - that is, if it is actually put into practice. So many of us didn't quite grasp how to use this way of manifesting our dreams into a real, day-to-day practice. BuzZen is a practical guide to putting the Law of Attraction into action in our lives on a daily basis. Now that's powerful!

Listen in to our wonderful conversation as we explore how the Law of Attraction is actually put into action to make a wonderful transformation in our lives. And, hear how having other women on the same journey can be part of 'The Hive' and inspire and challenge each other to reach greatness!

You can be part of the 'The Hive' too! Jody generously offered a free two month membership to 'The Hive' (the interactive online community of women BuzZen members!). So try it out and see what all the Buzzzz is about!

Thanks Jody! Check out BuzZen and I'll meet you at The Hive!

On our next podcast, the winners of the May Girlfriendology Contest share their inspiring stories! And, don't forget to enter the June Girlfriendology Contest! We have over 35 prizes and just ask for you to send a story about an amazing girlfriend or a friend who has gone out of her way for you to contest@girlfriendology.com or leave a message (with your email address spelled out) at 206-202-9005. Check out all the great prizes and send in your girlfriend story!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with BRENDA NOVAK, award-winning author

In my book, there's a different level of respect that you give a mother of five children! There also is a heightened sense of honor for an award-winning novelist who continues to produce well-written, engaging books. But what got to me was how BRENDA NOVAK combined these aspects of her life with an above-and-beyond call of action to do something about a disease that impacts her young son and so many children - Juvenile Diabetes.

Let's start with her new book. Trust Me. It is first in a trilogy (that Brenda admits will exceed three - which I'm sure will please her loyal fans!) about 'The Last Stand' - a group of girlfriends who meet at a victim support group and later add their own mix to each of her following romantic thrillers. The follow-up books in the series (Watch Me and Stop Me) are coming out later this month! Check out her site to read the first chapter of Trust Me.

So what did I learn from Brenda Novak that really inspired me?

* FAMILY FIRST - Brenda began writing because of her need to be home with her children. She makes time for them even when cranking out novels and doing the rounds of publicity and public speaking. Again, in my book, any mother of five that does all that she does, deserves some kind of prize!

* YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE - When Brenda's son was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes, she didn't just decide to let an insulin treatment change their routine. She decided to use the power of the pen (and the fans that has brought her) to do something. Brenda started a foundation and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for research to cure Juvenile Diabetes.

* THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR - Not only is that the name of her new June Contest, it also is a key part of her life and her recent 'The Last Stand' novels. The books revolve around a small girlfriend group with interesting skill sets and connections. Also, Brenda credits her writer girlfriends for their support in her Juvenile Diabetes fund raising as well as being her friends and understanding her wild writer lifestyle.

I know you'll enjoy listening to the podcast with, and reading books by, Brenda Novak. And, if you'd like to win a free copy of her new book Trust Me, send in a girlfriend story in the June Girlfriendology Contest. You'll enjoy the romance and the thrills!

Thanks Brenda for making time for Girlfriendology and for sharing your books with us! Also, thanks for all you're doing to eliminate Juvenile Diabetes. The world is a better place because of people like you!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - THE GIRLFRIEND FACTOR Founder Joan Busick

Our role as a girlfriend isn't to just go see "Sex and the City" together. It is to have a real friendship which means helping each other through tough stuff and celebrating successes TOGETHER.

JOAN BUSICK, along with her girlfriend Michele Moore, decided to create a non-profit based on helping real women go after their dreams. THE GIRLFRIEND FACTOR was born in 2005 and now has dozens of women in college/training for new careers and reaching their goals!

Listen to the podcast for the details. Check out The Girlfriend Factor for ways you can get involved - like a "Go Girl! Camp," online shopping, starting a chapter in your city, etc.

As founder of The Girlfriend Factor, Joan emotes inspiration! Here are a few lessons I learned from this wonderful girlfriend:

* TAKE CHARGE - Joan runs her own CPA firm. It would have been much easier just to write a check to another organization and not bothered with starting a non-profit. Not Joan. She and girlfriend Michele decided they wanted to make a difference in women's lives and to do something about it. That inspires me!

* FRIENDSHIP IS IMPORTANT - The Girlfriend Factor doesn't just write a check then walk away. They stay involved. They befriend the grant recipients and cheer them on through school, interviews, challenges and successes. They become their girlfriends and get to know them on a very personal, supportive level. That inspires me too!

* THEY HAVE FUN! - The Girlfriend Factor believes that helping others doesn't have to involve a boring fundraiser dinner with a long-winded speaker. (We've all been at too many of those!) Funds are raised by hosting fun events like a pajama shopping night and 'Go Girl! Camps.' And, through the course of their events, they become better friends with the other women who are supportive of The Girlfriend Factor. They know how to have fun and make a difference in women's lives - at the same time!

* GET YOUR FRIENDS INVOLVED - To get The Girlfriend Factor started, Joan and Michele decided to enlist their girlfriends. They asked them to consider supporting The Girlfriend Factor. Of course, being girlfriends, they wanted to help and became part of the "Blind Faith Gang." Per Joan and Michele: "Without knowledge or understanding of our dream, they chose to be part of something bigger than themselves. For their generosity and faith, we will forever hold them as the foundation that created The Girlfriend Factor."

Do you want to befriend other women who need just a 'foot up' in making a change in their life? Can you be the kind of girlfriend that you'd love to have? Don't just watch a movie together or have dinner - make a difference! Check out The Girlfriend Factor and listen in to this inspiring interview with Joan. Thanks Joan! Thanks Girlfriends!

DREAM ... and encourage your girlfriends to dream too

The wisdom found on bumper stickers! Seen on my dog walk this morning (a wonderful John Lennon quote), it was perfectly timed for my day. I'm working on the Girlfriendology newsletter and lining up 'expert girlfriends' for the website, as well as finding amazing women to interview in the Girlfriendology podcasts. I may be a Dreamer, but I'm so glad I'm not the only one. Dream today. And encourage your girlfriends to dream as well. Together we'll love the journey toward our dreams as friends cheering each other on! Happy Friday Girlfriend!



p.s. NEW Girlfriendology Podcast posted last night. Interview with JILL MACKAY (and me!) www.girlfriendology.com

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Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast interview with JILL MACKAY (and me!)

Often you can spot them across the room. Unaware of anyone nearby. They chatter, laugh and sometimes even cry. Their eye contact and body language convey that they are completely comfortable and are being their authentic self. They're not trying to impress anyone or really concerned with what others around them think. They're spending time together, making memories, making plans, solving problems, sharing life. They are girlfriends.

My girlfriend JILL MACKAY (fab jewelry designer, author and creative entrepreneur) decided that it was time YOU found out who I am. She decided that someone should interview me for a Girlfriendology podcast so that blog readers (or "bleaders"!) could find out why I started Girlfriendology and why I think promoting female friendship warrants leaving my job and dedicating my life! (I know she isn't the only one who wonders what is up with me and my dream of building an online women's community based on friendship!)

And, yes, I did get the turn the tables on her too. Hopefully you'll hear something that will inspire you to spend time with your girlfriends, and after hearing Jill and me, something that will amuse you and make you laugh. So here's my Lessons from a Girlfriend:

* FOLLOW YOUR PASSION - To be honest, almost every one of our Girlfriendology podcast guests is an amazing example of following your passion. From authors to podcasters, entrepreneurs to artists, each inspiring woman we've talked with had a new perspective on following their passion. Jill and I definitely follow suit. I'm passionate about making Girlfriendology an online community for women based on inspiration, appreciation and celebration of girlfriends. Jill is committed to creating amazing (and I do mean AMAZING!) jewelry designs. She fabulously talented!

* LAUGH AND CRY TOGETHER - Last year walking back from a tradeshow together, we laughed so hard that we could barely keep from peeing! (Sorry, but it was totally true!) Within the short course of a day, we were crying together over very emotional times in our lives. Both of these are wonderful things. If I have to cry, I can't think of anyone better than a dear girlfriend to be there with me (and possibly join me). And, laughing is just the best with a girlfriend - no fake laughter, just complete joy and giggles. Happy or sad, just serve mine up with a girlfriend by my side!

* BE HONEST, BE REAL, BE YOU - I asked Jill to critique something for me recently. I wanted, and most of all NEEDED, the truth. I knew I could get that from her. I also knew she would deliver the message in a kind, caring manner so my feelings wouldn't be hurt and my insecurities could handle it - but most of all, I needed her to be REAL. We all need friends like that - those we can count on to tell us if there is spinach in our teeth or gunk on our nose, to make sure we never go out in public with our size tag proudly displayed behind us or with navy tights and a black skirt on. (I needed Jill in my office the day I did that!) Be the friend that you want, need, admire. Be real. Be you. Be a girlfriend.

And, if you're going to the BEAD & BUTTON show in Milwaukee soon, stop by booth #1010. We'll post some audio messages and get some input from women at the show on their girlfriends and fun times together. Jill will be there and I'll join her on Saturday and Sunday. I guarantee you'll laugh and see some spectacular jewelry that Jill has designed. She is a 'superstar' to me. I don't care what she says! (-; Thanks Jill! You ARE my superstar friend!

So, if you see those women across the room who are ignoring everyone and just enjoying each other's company and conversation, don't be jealous. Smile for them. Then grab a girlfriend and have your own discussion. Girlfriends - life's better together!

Girlfriends helping Girlfriends (and kids) - BEFORE JUNE 1!

I just had the opportunity to interview award-winning, best-selling author BRENDA NOVAK for an upcoming Girlfriendology podcast (to hear our interview, check back next Thursday evening). Brenda's newest book, "Trust Me," is a wonderful romantic thriller about a group of women who work together to resolve injustice and solve crimes. Brenda not only has a passion for writing, she also has a deep desire to make a difference.

QUICK! Until midnight on May 31 (just one or two more days!), you can participate in Brenda's online auction for Juvenile Diabetes. All proceeds go toward research for Juvenile Diabetes and the prizes warrant your attention! Visit the online auction for opportunities to bid on one of a kind experiences (trips, meals with celebrities - like lunch with Debbie Macomber, featured in a recent Girlfriendology podcast) and wonderful items (like trips, jewelry, purses) to amazing opportunities like book critiques by famous editors/authors - literally, there are hundreds of fabulous prizes!

DON'T DELAY! Act now for these fabulous prizes that go to a great cause!

And, while you're in the 'spending for a great cause' mood, visit Beaded Hope. Jennifer Davis of Beaded Hope did a video interview with us recently and gave a 15% discount for any purchase from BeadedHope.com until June 1! Just enter "GOGIRL" in the promotional code and you'll receive 15% off - and you'll employ women in South Africa as well as help with food and medical supplies - and you get some great beaded jewelry/accessories. (Talk about a win-win-win situation!)

You know how it is. You find out a girlfriend has a passion for a great cause and you just have to be there for her to help her out. Here is our opportunity to help out wonderful organizations and to do so in honor of these inspiring women (Brenda and Jennifer, in this case) who believe in making a difference in the world! Thanks Girlfriends!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with DEBBIE MACOMBER, women's fiction author

DEBBIE MACOMBER is a mega-author. She has over 100 million books in print. Her new book, Twenty Wishes, is a wonderful, inspiring story of women who each make a list of their wishes and then together find the way to their dreams.

As welcoming and friendly as her books, Debbie spoke with Girlfriendology on our latest podcast. There is so much to learn from someone this gifted at understanding women, friendships, passionate hobbies and life. So, here are just a few of the lessons I learned in interviewing Debbie:

* LIVE YOUR LIFE WITH PASSION - Debbie is passionate about her knitting, writing, children and grandchildren (not necessarily in that order!). She loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. She gets up at 4am each morning to start her day preparing and reading, then writing. (You have to be passionate about something to get up at that time each morning!) You can tell by talking with her that she loves life and loves sharing the lives of her characters with her millions of fans.

* LOVE YOUR FANS - Debbie is currently on tour to 20 cities (for the 20 wishes!). Her fans come out in swarms, in any weather and with a desire just to see her, talk with her, share their knitting or tell her about their girlfriends. She even shared how the initial idea for this book came from one of her fans. She obviously loves these women and finds such joy in getting to know them, hearing about their lives and sharing her hobbies and writings with them.

* MAKE TIME FOR YOUR GIRLFRIENDS - As she shared in the interview, Debbie has a group of girlfriends that she meets with weekly for breakfast. They help each other through life, share their joys and frustrations, and, after talking with Debbie, they must laugh a lot! Even with her busy schedule, she keeps them as a priority in her life. She's a good girlfriend!

* TAKE TIME FOR YOUR HOBBIES - It doesn't have to be knitting, but just find an activity that you love and allow yourself time to spend doing it. And, when you can, combine your hobbies! Debbie obviously loves to write and knit. So it was natural for her to combine them with a companion book to Twenty Wishes with knitting patterns from the book's characters. She even has designed a line of products for knitters (but versatile enough to be used for lots of other hobbies and 'stuff!).

So, what are your wishes? Dreams? Goals? Do you have them written down or perhaps represented on a vision board? Do your girlfriends know what your dreams are and do they cheer you on in reaching them?

Read Twenty Wishes then write out your own wishes. Share them with your friends. They'll help you achieve them! Visit Set Your Wish Free for information on a special contest to reward someone with $10,000 to set their wish free!

Thanks Debbie for making time for Girlfriendology in the midst of your national book tour! It was an honor to speak with you and to be able to share Twenty Wishes with your fans through the podcast and through our Girlfriendology Contest prizes. Thanks for your inspiration and for introducing us to so many girlfriends in your novels.

P.S. And send in your story for our monthly Girlfriendology Contest! You could win a copy of Debbie's fabulous new novel, Twenty Wishes - just send in a girlfriend story and you could get back a great girlfriend novel!

Girlfriend SANDRA YANCEY shares inpiration at eWomen Network lunch

Even in a blurry photo, SANDRA YANCEY looks pretty! And she is (just not so fuzzy!) in real life but that beauty mainly comes from the inside. She created the eWomen Network - "This is the #1 resource for connecting and promoting women and their businesses on both a local and global scale." Sandra has grown this organization from a dream to an international, multi-million dollar company. As she says, she believes a smile is the key to so many connections. Check out the eWomen Network for their upcoming conference (the largest gathering of businesswomen in North America!).

Sandra gave a speech on 'the power of girlfriends' and shared inspiring stories of how she "jumped then grew wings." Thanks Sandra! Inspiration. That's what girlfriends give!



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Interview with CAROL DUVALL, our creative girlfriend and 'queen of crafts'!

Hey Girlfriends - I just posted the CAROL DUVALL podcast and wanted to let you know. I'll add more updates and 'Lessons from a Girlfriend' later today. (Including stories of fun times with Carol from taping the show with her!)

If you don't know Carol, you should listen in and get to know her. She's a living legend having been on television for 57 years! (That has to be a record!!) And she has a new book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall.

Listen in for this fun visit with a dear creative girlfriend who has inspired so many of us. And thanks Mari and Rebecca for your call-in questions!!!

Girlfriend Interview with PAULA YOO, author of "Good Enough"

Maybe it is my denial of my real age, but I fell in love with the new teen novel, GOOD ENOUGH, by Paula Yoo. Her main character, Patti, is an overachiever who longs to fit in and strives to stand out. Funny, touching, sweet and silly, we can all relate to Patti and her life (even if high school was a few decades ago!).

I had the honor of interviewing Paula last night at Joseph-Beth Booksellers on her national book tour. The video will be up in the coming week (a little grace time for my editors!), so come back and view the energy, music and humor of this fun author! Thanks Paula! (And check out GOOD ENOUGH!)

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Live Your Adventure with video guest and girlfriend CARLA NEGGERS

Suspense, a little bit of romance and a strong female character reside within the pages of CARLA NEGGERS new novel, THE ANGEL. We had the honor of interviewing Carla on the release date of her new novel. And it was an honor. Carla is a NYT best-selling author and she believes in adventures - for her book characters and for her fans. (And she was very nice to work with - Thanks Carla!)

Check out Carla's website for her "Live Your Adventure" contest where you can win a prize to pursue your adventure! And read THE ANGEL.



Just a teaser ... Suspenseful and evocative, The Angel is a riveting novel of dangerous myths, haunting secrets and the shattering truth concealed within them. It is Carla Neggers at her best!

And win a copy of "THE ANGEL" on Girlfriendology by just sharing a girlfriend story! Visit Girlfriendology for our May contest rules. And visit Carla's site for her "Live Your Adventure" contest. Okay girlfriends - go live your adventure! (Right after you watch this video!)

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with KRISTEN BEIREIS

Isn't it funny how you meet and find girlfriends? Some of mine are from college or previous jobs, others are neighbors or friends from organizations (like my friend Vicki), some friends are friends of friends or just women that I found we have something in common. All of them leave imprints on our lives. And, all of us have the opportunity to inspire others and to help them on their journey to a happy life (as they also accompany us on this adventure!).

KRISTEN BEIREIS believes we need girlfriends to help us in so many areas of our lives. As a life, career and business coach, she helps her clients explore ways to 'love Mondays' and their lives. As a girlfriend, she supports her friends in the same process of identifying their dreams and encouraging them as they reach to achieve it.

Kristen spoke with us this week on our podcast (now semi-weekly!). Wise beyond her years and enthusiastic about life and her profession, friends and family, Kristen uses lessons learned in her life to help her clients and girlfriends live happy. A few lessons from Kristen:

* BE HAPPY - From her cheery voice and her contageous enthusiasm, you know Kristen is a nice person, a good girlfriend and a positive influence to all around her. Her coaching business, Amazing Steps, is about helping people be happy in their careers - which may mean changing careers or staying where they are and making it what they really want. She helps us find our passion and turn it into a career so we 'love Mondays' - and that's a happy thing!
* BE A FRIEND - As Kristen shares in this podcast, girlfriends often are our support systems that help us make transitions in our lives. So, girlfriends play a large role in our careers. Support from girlfriends is sometimes how we get the courage to admit that something isn't working. And, they're there for us to help us figure out the best solution - which is great since they know us so well and are acting on our behalf.
* BE CREATIVE IN MAKING AND MAINTAINING FRIENDSHIPS - Kristen is a social media maven and uses the internet to find, establish and grow her friendships. She embraces sites/networks like Twitter and Facebook* to find new friends who have common interests and even possibly work together in the future. Communication with internet friends is different than with face-to-face friends, Kristen explained, but it doesn't mean they are any less a girlfriend. Some of the friends she has made over the internet are the ones with whom she shares more openly.

I met Kristen online and am happy to have found her! Be open to meeting new girlfriends. Explore new friendships and make contacts online or even in-line at your local grocery store! Just connect with other women - you never know when you'll make a great new girlfriend!

Check out Kristen on AmazingSteps.com and VirtualHelper4u. And, listen in to Kristen on our latest semi-weeklyGirlfriendology podcast. Thanks Kristen!

Tune in Wednesday for our podcast interview with Kaira Sturdivant Rouda, President of Real Living real estate company and author of Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs. (And, enter the contest for a chance to win a copy of her great book!!)

* Check out the Girlfriendology Facebook group to meet some great girlfriends too!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with SUZANNE GRACE-MAIDEN, Family Therapist and Relationship Podcaster

After listening to several episodes of TheDivaCast podcast, I knew interviewing the witty and energetic Suzanne would be fun. What I didn't know was that she has a heart-felt passion for her friends, and how she is an inspiration in what she does, the friendships she maintains and how she lives her life. I learned a lot from Suzanne (aka: Dear Zanny) and you will too in our new Girlfriendology podcast.

First, I'd like to introduce you to Suzanne. Suzanne says a resounding "YES" to the universe. She is high-energy, vivacious and funny. Wife, mother, girlfriend and Family Therapist, Suzanne juggles her career and family, as well as three positive, inspiring pocasts - TheDivaCast, Dear Zanny and InsytWorks.

Suzanne served five-years Active Duty Air Force in Europe during the cold war. She earned expert marksman status and was fondly dubbed by peers as "Barbie in Combat Boots." One of Suzanne's proudest achievements was logging solo hours in a Cessna. Even after tragically losing two close family members in bizarre circumstances, and battling a rare and deadly cancer, Suzanne stays optimistic. She not only sees herself as a cancer-survivor, but someone who truly lives and moves forward without limitation or fear.

After convalescing from cancer, Suzanne earned an M.A. in Counseling and currently practices as a Family Therapist. She hosts "Dear Zanny" - the first relationship advice podcast. Suzanne is married to the producer of both, TheDivaCast and InsytWorks. Together, they share their adoration for their beloved 11 year-old son. She lives life to the fullest - and you'll hear that passion come through her voice in all her podcasts!

Every person in this world is a lesson. Some teach us little things like how to sew or pick the best melon. Others teach us huge life lessons like how to be a better friend or how we can live a more responsible lifestyle. With Suzanne, the lessons are powerful and positive. And, with passion and purpose she builds into her family and friends - which alone is a great lesson.

A few things I learned from Suzanne:

* WE NEED GIRLFRIENDS - While I believe that, Suzanne, as an educated Therapist KNOWS that. She knows it not only from experience (example: the wonderful women who helped her deal with cancer) but she also knows it from the training and education she received to become a Therapist. It was confirming to hear how much emphasis she puts on friendships for her patients. She even weighs friendships into their diagnosis and treatment. It's THAT important.

* LIVE WITH PASSION AND PURPOSE - Suzanne has a zest for life that started long before she dealt with cancer. She was a soldier, pilot and adventurer. Then, she survived cancer and became a 'take on the universe' kind-of woman! To me, that's a great reminder to focus on the important things in life - loving people, making life better for others, etc. Suzanne 'gets' this!

* TURN ENERGY INTO GOOD THINGS - Suzanne could easily come home after a day of helping others in her daily Therapist practice, and just stop there. Instead, she invests her time in helping others. In addition to being a mother and wife, she is dedicated to her girlfriends and to others. Her three podcasts all provide positive, purpose-driven encouragement - through laughter and 'girlfriend time' on TheDivaCast, in giving advice on Dear Zanny or by sharing helpful insight on InsytWorks.

* HAVE FUN ALONG THE WAY - We talked to Suzanne after a relaxing trip to Aruba with her husband. Together they recorded several podcasts on the beach with an 'umbrella drink' in hand. Sure, they did some work but it was much more fun together in a wonderful place. Enjoy the little stuff. Don't take yourself too seriously. Make life fun. We only get one, so have fun along the way!

Thanks Suzanne (aka: Dear Zanny) for your wonderful perspective and thoughts on the psychological need for girlfriends on our podcast interview. You offered inspiring insight and contagious enthusiasm! Listen in to Suzanne on her podcasts and the Girlfriendology interview. You'll be glad you 'met' Suzanne! (Live your life with passion too!)

p.s. Contact 'Dear Zanny' with your relationship questions and comments! Suzanne would love to hear from you at 678-884-0524 or zanny(at)dearzanny.com. Thanks Girlfriends!

New Prizes for April Girlfriendology Contest!

Wow - how can it be April 16th already?!?! Spring fortunately has sprung and, like the tulips and daffodils, the Girlfriendology monthly contest is popping up - with prizes! Yes, we always reward the top five girlfriend stories with Starbucks gift cards (so you can take you and your girlfriend out for coffee on Girlfriendology) and the Girlfriendology Journal. NOW you also have an opportunity to win more prizes.

Thanks to Emily and Allison at National Geographic, Girlfriendology is also giving away five copies for
NOVEL DESTINATIONS: Literary Landmarks From Jane Austen's Bath to Ernest Hemingway's Key West by Shannon Mckenna Schmidt and Joni Rendon - who we'll talk to on an upcoming podcast! Thanks National Geographic Books!

Be adventurous! Write a story and possibly win some cool prizes! Not only will we give out the five Starbucks gift cards and the Girlfriendology Journal, but we'll also give away five copies of NOVEL DESTINATIONS from future podcast guests - the authors!

Remember, the April Girlfriendology contest is 'going green.' Earth Day is coming up and we're asking you to do a little 'recycling!' This month's contest asks YOU for YOUR stories of girlfriends who have made an impact on you in the past - perhaps school friends or girls you knew growing up, maybe it is women you've worked with or neighbors you've known for a long time. Just share your story and you could win a prize. And send in your 'recycled' girlfriend stories TODAY! (Visit April Girlfriendology contest for rules and contact info.) Thanks Girlfriends!

Hangin' with best-selling girlfriend author KRIS RADISH

I had the honor of interviewing best-selling author KRIS RADISH tonight (see blog below for her great books!). She's in Cincinnati (at Joseph-Beth Booksellers) on her book tour for "Searching for Paradise in Parker PA" and took time out of her wildly busy day to talk with me about touring, her new book and the amazing women she's met on the book tour. Sign up for her newsletter to find out more about her upcoming Radish Retreat, etc. What a great girlfriend she is! Thanks Kris!!!

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p.s. The interview video will be posted hopefully by this weekend. Also, listen to her previous podcast and send in questions for our next conversation. We'll interview Kris on a future podcast when she's back home after the tour.

Hangin' with Smart Girlfriends at BlogHer NYC

If you listen to yesterday's post (a phone call message/image through Utterz), you know that I'm in NYC attending the BlogHer Business seminar. I've been in the techie world before and attended Comdex and other BIG technology conferences but this is the first with almost all women! Love it!!!

I'm getting a great response to Girlfriendology (after all - you can be, but don't have to be a Mommy, can be any age, race, political persuasion) - all girls/women NEED/Love/Have Girlfriends! I'm also meeting a lot of SMART women and am learning tons like:

* Manic Mommies - Erin spoke yesterday. They did a great Manic Mommies Escape weekend - complete with airport transport supplied by GM, etc. Cool event for a fun group of women!
* March of Dimes Blog (and Twitter) Queen Beverly - who blogs in english and spanish to help moms have healthy babies. (Talk about making a difference in people's lives!)
* Method, Graco, Kodak, HP, Microsoft and lots of businesses are blogging. Really interesting ways that they're communicating with the world about their businesses, causes, employees, etc.

Actually, there are too many amazing women here to mention all of them so I'll just have to stop there. Being around these women is just inspiring! If you're a blogger, I'd definitely recommend BlogHer (upcoming event in San Francisco). And, next time you're in a group of women, look for new girlfriends. I'm thankful and inspired by wonderful, SMART women who help each other and cheer for one another. Girlfriends - Life's better together.

Lessons from a Girlfriend ... LISA SHEPARD STEWART

Previously I belonged to an organization that was almost 100% women. SCD (the Society of Creative Designers) was a group of professional designers who worked in the craft and hobby industry (as well as other industries). Being a group of almost all women (but we loved you Ed!), and, specifically, a group of CREATIVE women, it was a fabulous collection of women with talents in all areas - from painting to plastic canvas, sewing to stamping, beading to beadazzling! It was an organization of creative girlfriends who offered assistance, support, ideas and a willingness to help others.

Change happens and SCD transitioned into the CHA (Craft and Hobby Assn.). I don't get to see these women nearly as often as I'd like, but I know I can still call on them for ideas and assistance. I called on one recently after learning that she was holding creative girlfriend events. So, I did and I learned a lot.

That experience, as well as the lessons I've learned from so many of the 'girlfriend authors and experts' that I've interviewed previously inspired me to create "Lessons from a Girlfriend" - a blog to accompany each weekly podcast with a behind-the-scenes and/or revelations before/during/after the interview. After all, we learn SO MUCH from our girlfriends, that I feel it is my duty to share what each amazing woman on our podcast has to pass on to you!

A graduate of NYC's Fashion Institute of Technology, LISA SHEPARD STEWART is a designer, award-winning author, creative director, event leader, TV 'home/lifestyle' personality and successful creative woman! In her how-to project books African Accents, Global Expressions, and On The Go!, Lisa encourages others to express their creativity through culturally relevant techniques and materials. Her company, Cultured Expressions, Inc., offers her books, kits, imported fabrics & embellishments, lectures, workshops, projects and more. She also organizes retreats and special events internationally, combining her other personal interests of travel, holistic health and entertaining. Check out her upcoming Quilter's Retreat in Jamaica and Lisa's creative ideas on a TV show she did on creating a girlfriend spa night.

Okay, so what did I learn? (Since this is the first of weekly "Lessons from a Girlfriend.") I learned ...

* FOLLOW YOUR PASSION - Lisa visited West Africa in 1986 (when she was a young teen, no doubt!). She fell in love with their fabrics - especially Mudcloth. That, along with her creative talents and following those talents to the Fashion Institute of Technology, put her on the path to 'quilting together a career' - piecing together different aspects of her passion (like kits, projects, books, events, etc.) into a lifestyle living. She is very inspiring!

* BE SMART - Lisa mentioned that it is almost ten years since her first book was published, so she's preparing for ways to promote that as a way to continue the momentum for her creative business. (What things in your past should you celebrate and continue to use to further your business, career or dreams?)

* BE OPEN TO NEW IDEAS - Lisa is participating in an upcoming Natural Hair Care Expo in Baltimore, for her first time. Always learning and being open to trying new things is a great quality and, I believe, the sign of a successful, creative entrepreneur!

* HAVE FUN WITH IT! Organizing a retreat is hard work. There are preparation and planning, financial deposits and potential travel hassles. However, if you check out Lisa's Quilting Retreat in Jamaica, you'll see that she still has fun. She makes sure that everyone (including herself) gets to experience spaaaa treatments! (I think Lisa has some fun on this event too!)

I'm grateful to SCD for the opportunity to meet amazing women like LISA SHEPARD STEWART who continue to inspire me long after the organization is gone. Thanks Lisa for your time and inspiration! Listen in to Lisa's podcast interview for lessons that you may need to learn from this creative, inspiring girlfriend. Thanks Lisa!

Conversations with Girlfriends

The mystic influence of friends and friends of friends always humbles me. My friend Joan invited her friends, along with me and some of mine, for a Sunday afternoon visit or a Tuesday evening dinner. Conversations swirl about women, our hopes and dreams, how we support and encourage each other (or not), the future of our city and country, how we can be truer forms of ourselves.

At lunch yesterday, again with Joan and a friend of hers - Vanessa, conversations started first about conversations. Those on the previous Sunday and Tuesday, and, about a wise woman in town who believes that we can change things just by starting conversations. If we get women together and focus our energies and words on positive change and growth, there is no measure of what we can change as we take those conversations into each of our homes, businesses, circle of friends and acquaintances, etc. Conversations among friends, and friends of friends, are very powerful things.

The energy generated by verbal sharing and listening, the momentum started by a single thought shared, the creative influence of hearing another perspective from a respected and passionate person - those things can, and do, change the world.

I'm humbled and honored to be a part of this. There are great things brewing, ideas and friendships forming. We, as women, first have to take a responsibility for where we are and where we're going. After that, we need to have conversations. To hear from women who are just as passionate about improvement and change.

Can you start something where you are? Do you have passionate, positive, purposeful friends? Get them together. Introduce friends to friends of friends. Ask questions. Listen. Start change ... just with a conversation.

(Thanks Joan and friends! You inspire me!)