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Mother’s Day 2025

8 May 2025

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and I find myself missing three remarkable women who played an invaluable role in my life’s journey.

One of them is Sue Givot, who embraced me when I was just 15 and remained a constant presence in my life until her recent passing. Sue and her husband were deeply involved in the youth organization (USY), which I was fortunate to be part of. Through them, I formed lasting friendships with their daughters, Debbie and Jodi—connections that have endured for over 60 years, despite the physical distance between us.

Even across miles, we stayed close, regularly exchanging letters through snail mail. Sue never failed to remind me of the special bond we shared, a connection that has remained a cherished part of my life.

My mother-in-law, Loretta Hale, was more than just family—she was my friend, my second mom. From the very first day we met, she accepted me wholeheartedly, and together we shared so many cherished moments. She defied the stereotypical mother-in-law role, offering unconditional support and friendship. She never judged, but when needed, she provided gentle, motherly advice.

During a difficult period with my own mother, Loretta reminded me that I was loved—something she knew firsthand, as she and my mom had built a beautiful relationship of their own. Her kindness and presence were a gift, and I will always be grateful.

The last Mother’s Day I shared with my mom, Dorothy Friedman Moss—D’Vasha—was nine years ago. As people often say, if I had known it would be our last, maybe I would have spent more time with her or chosen a more meaningful gift. But the truth is, we rarely recognize “the last time” until it has already passed.

There are countless sayings about living life to the fullest and embracing happiness, yet amid the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, we often move through moments—sometimes even the most precious ones—without truly realizing their significance.

This year I was able to celebrate Mother’s Day with my first born, Steve, early.  The time we spent together was simple, sweet, and wonderful.  I enjoy the company of my sons, and I appreciate the time we spend together and the communication we have throughout the year.

This weekend, I’ll be celebrating Mother’s Day with my youngest, Alex. We’ll be traveling to his new home and exploring the beauty of Kentucky together. Alex has invited me to stay on while my husband returns for work, and whether I decide to extend my visit or not, I’m deeply grateful that he wants to spend more time with me.

This post is not meant to diminish anyone’s experience, especially for those who find this weekend filled with sadness and grief. For many, Mother’s Day carries a heavy weight—particularly for those who have lost children through miscarriage, illness, or death.

I remember my first Mother’s Day after the loss of a deeply wanted pregnancy. In my pain, I unintentionally allowed my sorrow to overshadow the day for my mother and mother-in-law. It’s a moment I cannot take back, but I can honor that experience by continuing to grow—choosing kindness, grace, and a gentler approach in the way I move forward.

To my friends and acquaintances who are Not Moms—whether by choice or circumstance—please know that this day is for you too. So many of you have stepped into roles as surrogate moms, teachers, caregivers, and mentors, offering love, guidance, and support to children in countless ways.

Your kindness, dedication, and the impact you make deserve to be celebrated. Today, and every day, your presence matters.

And if Mother’s Day isn’t something you’re celebrating this year, why not celebrate my brother Joel’s 79th birthday instead?

For years, he shared this special day with our Aunt Lieba, and now, he celebrates surrounded by his wife TL, his daughter and grandchildren, and the incredible music community of Saratoga Springs.

So, sing a song, sing it loud, and most importantly—CELEBRATE!


 

WERNOTJUST CLEVELAND

Check out newclevelandradio.net

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6 Weeks and Healing

8 February 2025

It’s not quite 6 weeks from my shoulder humerus surgery and it feels as if this road to recovery is exceptionally long.  According to my doctors and therapist I need to be patient and celebrate each movement, like typing.  With activity and therapy, I will regain range of motion, but it will take time and each movement and exercise I do will be uncomfortable until I gain the strengthen and healing occurs.  I have been told that my recovery can take 6- 12 – 18 months or more.  I have been reminded to be patient (not my best feature) and to do my exercises.  Therapy may be needed for some time as it is important the exercises are performed correctly for the should and arm to recover.

Prior to the fracture I had a torn rotator cuff and that was repaired at the time of surgery so I have additional issues that need to recover, and I must listen to my body.

Listening to my body has caused an interruption in my work schedule.  Although I work independently and from home, even a podcasts have been cancelled and rescheduled in order for me to provide selfcare which will eventually help in healing my repaired injuries.  It may appear to others that there is nothing to podcasting, but it is all the work that goes into the production and release that increases my pain level, and I need to stop and take time for recovery.  If you know me, you know this is not an easy task for me.

This Saturday afternoon I have been working on and off since 10 am this morning.  Normally what I have accomplished would have been down in 30 – 40 minutes but I do not have the stamina for what I have set out to do.  I am learning to give myself permission I message I share with my Coaching Clients.  I understand the want (and need) to make changes and complete tasks but sometimes it is necessary to accept what we can and cannot change (at least at the moment).

6 weeks is actually a baby step in the recovery process and the Chronic Pain / Discomfort I am experiencing may not be visual to you.  I am good at masking my pain, but I know it is best if I STOP and just allow the process to slow down.  So, I am reaching out to you to please be patient with me and understand I will continue to do what I can when I can, but it may not meet your expectations.  I need to be OK with that.

This journey has made me more empathetic towards others and if you need someone to guide you through your changes, reach out, I am here.

#YESICAN coaching with Karen
kh.yesican1@gmail.com
https://newclevelandradio.net/yesican-a-personal-coaching-journey/

440 526 1530

When Podcasting meets Coaching

We all travel through life trying to be the best at something.  Sadly some of us get caught up in being the best for someone else or at least in the image they identify us with.  If we are unsure of our own thoughts and feelings it is possible to drift through life never understanding who we are as an individual.

As someone who search for her identity for more than 1/2 my years on earth I can share with you allowing myself to feel and venture down a path of discovery has  been a the greatest gift I have recieved in my life, and I gave it to myself.

I did not have to wait for that magical gift wrapped package with the perfect bow and presentation to connect with my happiness.  I accept the reality that happiness is not a destination in fact it is a work in progress and sometimes sadness propelled by negativity takes me out of the place I want to be on my journey.  However, as a podcaster and life coach I have developed the tools to make the adjustments I need to create the mood I need at the moment.

I remember a time when I was around 9 years old.  My Baube, my grandmother, had just died and we were sitting Shiva, the Jewish Memorial for the passing of a loved one.  Since I knew this was a sad time I didn’t understand how my mother and her two sisters sat together telling stories and laughing.  I was angry and confused, my Baube had just died and they were laughing how could that be right.  I remember going to my mother’s side crying and asking her to stop laughing and smiling.  My Aunite Annie explained in a sweet and quiet tone, that we needed to cherish the good and happy memories of Baube.  It’s not that we weren’t sad but there were so many things that Baube said and did that will always bring smiles and giggles to our faces!  That was my first lesson in understanding that if you look for the positive you will find it.

When my mother passed away even in her eulogy we offered up snipets of her humor and the memories that even as we laid her to rest brought happy thoughts into our spirit that still lives on for me today.

My journey, my words and the creation of tools to help me live my best life is what I offer to you thorugh podcasting and life coaching.

#YESICAN coaching with Karen
kh.yesican1@gmail.com
https://newclevelandradio.net/yesican-a-personal-coaching-journey/

440 526 1530

Sometimes You Just Need to Clean House

11/11/24

Well, today was a day to revisit the website to make some changes and provide our visitors with the information they are looking for.  Any suggestions please email:  newclevelandradio@gmail.com

Alex Bevan and The Akron Symphony_ AWESOME

Bravo – Alex Bevan and the Akron Symphony what a marvelous performance last evening at EJ Thomas Hall (in Akron, Ohio).

Approximately seven years ago I met Alex along with Jim Ballard, John Mosey, and Charlie Weiner, all talented Northeast Ohio musicians.  They have teamed up and worked together as well as individually in this area and beyond.  Last night Jim, John, and Charlie (amongst other musicians from the area) as well as my husband and I, were entertained not just with the music but the bantering between Alex and Eric (Conductor of the Akron Symphony).

I spotted Jim and Charlie in the audience, and I had the chance to talk briefly with John and my heart was soaring because these four men lead me in the direction of meeting so many talented individuals in my community, known by many outside the community.

The music last night was Bevan’s “Watersongs” album to life and together with this magnificent orchestra magic was made.

Check out:  https://alexbevan.com/music

Thank you, Alex, for providing me with a wonderful memory through your music.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from #yesican Coaching with Karen

Podcasting with Glen Anderson STAR102

 

Reminiscing on Radio and Parenting and MORE…

Karen and Glenn discussed Glenn’s experiences with jury duty and parenting, as well as their shared history in radio broadcasting. Glenn expressed his appreciation for being able to share his deep thoughts on the airwaves, and the two reminisced about changes in the radio industry over the years. They also discussed their respective journeys into and through broadcasting, with Karen sharing her story of being dissuaded from pursuing a career in communications and broadcasting by her parents.
Glenn’s Musical and Televisual Journey
Glenn shared his life experiences and career journey, starting from his teenage years when he began developing interests in music and cooking. He shared how his love for entertaining people led him to pursue a career in music and piano teaching. However, he faced a dilemma between his passions and the realities of the financial compensation. Later, an unexpected event occurred when he was noticed by Conan O’Brien on his show, which led him to consider a career in television. Finally, he decided to enroll in broadcasting school in 1996 to become a behind-the-scenes professional, but ended up taking an internship at Q104.
Glenn’s Journey From Song Parodies to Positive Thinking
Glenn, known initially for his funny song parodies, shared how he transitioned to a deeper thinker and positive person. He credited this change to his radio show where he was paid to maintain a good mood and provide a positive listening experience for his audience. Despite initial challenges, he found that the more he worked at being happy, the more natural it became. He also noted that his job required him to be in a good mood regardless of personal issues, which he found cathartic. Glenn’s journey from a funny song man to a deep thinking man was a result of his effort to force happiness until it became natural.
Therapy Through Personal Writing
Glenn and Karen (Avoid the Maze) shared their experiences of using personal writing as a form of therapy. Glenn expressed that sharing struggles and experiences on blogs and posts provided him with comfort and guidance, and possibly did the same for others. Karen agreed, reflecting on her podcasting experiences and the impact that reaching just one person can have. They discussed their processes for writing and dealing with emotions, with Karen acknowledging she often starts with a negative feeling but then seeks out a quote or realization that shifts her perspective to a positive outcome. Both agreed that their writing often reflected their experiences and emotions, and they preferred to share possible solutions or personal experiences rather than just their opinions.
Emotional Support in Relationships
Karen and Glenn discussed the emotional journey of friends and family members moving away and the importance of expressing emotions. Karen shares how she felt when her son moved to Texas but also saw it as an exciting new chapter. Glenn shares his childhood experience of not having a father and how this influenced his emotional intelligence and parenting style. Both agree on the importance of breaking down traditional gender roles in parenting and being emotionally supportive for their children.
Parenting Perspectives: Love, Routines, and Diagnosis
Glenn and Karen-shared their experiences with parenting and raising children. Glenn emphasized the importance of being present for children and making them feel loved, appreciated, and listened to, rather than constantly giving them tasks and chores. He also shared that having routines and making children accountable for their actions had helped in their family. In contrast, Karen shared her experience with her son’s autism diagnosis. She explained that while the diagnosis changed how others treated her son, they tried to maintain a sense of normalcy at home. She also stressed the importance of not treating children differently based on their diagnosis.
Parenting Philosophies and Personal Growth
Karen and Glenn engaged in a dialogue about parenting philosophies, emphasizing the importance of equipping children with problem-solving and communication skills. Glenn shared a personal story of overcoming a bully situation as a child, which taught him the value of standing up for oneself. They both stressed the role of parents in guiding children’s personal growth and the importance of seeking additional resources for guidance. They also shared their experiences with their children, highlighting the evolution of their relationships and the self-discovery and understanding that comes with parenthood.
Love, Conflict, and Tech: A Marriage Conversation
Karen and Glenn had a detailed conversation about the evolution of love in a married relationship. They highlighted how love changes from initial attraction and infatuation to deeper commitment and understanding through shared trials and tribulations. Glenn emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts respectfully, particularly in front of children, to foster relationship strength and understanding. They also discussed the importance of arguments in relationships, noting that they provide an opportunity to learn from each other as long as they don’t cause resentment. Glenn shared his experiences and perspectives on personal growth and change, focusing on the role of technology, including the Odyssey app for radio listening, and encouraged embracing new technological advancements.

Dallas Wings – My WNBA Favorites!

I was not an athlete growing up.  If and when I ran I always got a pain in my right side, so I chose not to run.  Also my family sorta convinced me that I was a KLUTZ.  I was forever bumping into things or falling down and getting hurt.  However, once I got to college I got interested in being a sports spectator, however back in the day females were Cheer Leaders very few participated in sports like Basketball.

I have my personal reasons why this team is ‘my team’ and why I choose to celebrate them.  However, I am here to share their remarkable record and encourage you to check them out.  If you live outside the Dallas area you can watch many of their games through your ABC Affiliate or ION.

https://wings.wnba.com/

You Can Be Amazing Too!

15 April 2023
I tell people all the time how amazing they are because each one of us is amazing in our rights.  However, for most of my life even when I thought I was amazing I did not believe it.  In fact for years, any good or great ideas I had I would link to someone else taking the backseat (just in case I was wrong).  No I was placing on someone if it went wrong in fact I often stepped up taking the blame…

I have worked with therapists many times over the years trying to find that feel good place in my life and after weeks or months of therapy I found them showing me the door because they believed I had found that space in my life.  Little did they know, I didn’t.

Coaching has helped me find the answers I need for the questions and doubts I have.  I’ve learned to brush off the negative voices in my head and listen to the pain and confusion they represent and use new skillsets to muffle their voices.  (‘In Positive Intelligence, Shirzad Chamine helps you achieve your true potential in life and work by shifting your inner balance of power.’)  I will be recommending this program to all my clients.  It continues to help me balance my thoughts and actions to reflect the person I am choosing to be.

If you sign up for a coaching 6 week session with me I will assist you in finding yourself.  You will be doing the work, I will provide you with tools that will help you today and into the future.  These tools will assist you in creating a mindset that reflects your wants and needs.  If I am not the ‘right’ coach for you I will provide you with contacts with other coaches that may specialize in the area of life you want to work on.

To benefit from coaching you must be vulnerable, be honest with yourself and your coach.  What is said in a coaching session is confidential.  I will share my stories with you as well and just as I will respect your privacy, I expect the same in return.

Until the second week of July I have a special introductory fee for a 6 week coaching session, feel free to contact me at newclevelandradio@gmail.com

https://newclevelandradio.net/person-coaching_yesican/