Parent Footprint With Dr. Dan

In our new episode, Dr. Dan sits down with artist, social entrepreneur, and joy-spreader Patty Mitchell—founder of Passion Works Studio and Creative Director at Creative Abundance Consulting–to discuss how radical inclusion and acceptance of all differences and abilities in the artmaking process is redefining community worldwide.  Patty explains to Dr. Dan how her bold question “What if inclusion, economic empowerment, and community transformation could all begin with a paintbrush?” started a movement that keeps growing and today is a successful global model for inclusive, empathy-driven social enterprise. Dr. Dan discusses Patty’s personal story and how through Passion Works Studio, Patty has created a vibrant space where people of all abilities come together to make art, build connections, and generate real economic value—over $8 million annually for her hometown of Athens, Ohio.  In today’s conversation, Patty shares with Dr. Dan how art can serve as a vehicle for liberation, independence, and belonging

Dr. Dan interviews Dr. Avriel Epps, a dynamic scholar, author, and strategist whose work sits at the crossroads of transformative justice and artificial intelligence. With a PhD in Human Development and a masters in Data Science from Harvard University, Dr. Epps brings a fresh and critical perspective to conversations about technology, equity, and social justice. On today’s episode, Dr. Dan and Dr. Epps explore her work around how bias in predictive technologies affects racial, gender, and sociopolitical identity development. She aims to understand the complex ways that algorithm design and computer-mediated social expectations—often communicated through artificial intelligence systems—impact the beliefs, behaviors, and health of developing humans. On today’s episode, listeners will hear explanations and examples about how AI can sometimes reinforce unfairness. Dr. Dan and Dr. Epps urge us to be part of the solution by demanding technology that works for everyone, not just a few. Dr. Avriel Epps is a forme

On today’s episode, Dr. Dan interviews Danielle Elliot – a health and science journalist, documentarian, and host of Climbing the Walls, a new limited-series investigative podcast about ADHD in women.   Danielle was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 36. On this critical episode, Dr. Dan and Danielle discuss the rising tide of ADHD diagnoses in women, Danielle’s journey from diagnosis to the podcast, why women historically weren’t diagnosed with ADHD (and what’s led to new ADHD diagnoses nearly doubling among women ages 20–49 between 2020-2022 according to CDC) and finally, why it’s essential to break the silence around this misunderstood topic. Dr. Dan and Danielle dive into a deep discussion about how Climbing the Walls, created in partnership with Understood.org, gives life to the stories of the many women who have lived experiences with ADHD and explores big questions around the surge in ADHD diagnoses, and much more. Today’s episode will shift the perspective on neurodiversity and transform lives. For

Dr. Dan and Dr. Greg Walton discuss Greg’s new book Ordinary Magic: The Science of How We Can Achieve Big Change with Small Acts.  On today’s episode, Dr. Walton explains his vision of what is possible for our relationships, communities, institutions, and the world. The interview reveals that even when we feel trapped, we have vast opportunities for change and we can free ourselves. In his literally “life-changing” work and book, Greg reveals how through “ordinary magic” we can create ordinary experiences that help us set aside the ordinary worries of life to unleash extraordinary change. Dr. Walton and Dr. Dan dig into how and why these “wise interventions” can help us chart new trajectories for our lives.  Listeners will leave this episode with the knowledge that we all have more power to improve our lives than we realize - and that we can become psychologically wiser humans by using Ordinary Magic. Greg Walton, Ph.D. developed the concept of “wise interventions” and has led much of the groundbreaking r

Dr. Dan interviews Andrea Jones-Rooy – data scientist, educator, podcast host, comedian, and circus performer – about how data informs our journeys to being our best selves. Based on her life of weaving in between the worlds of science and art, Andrea believes that it’s at the intersection of science and art that we can make the biggest, most life-changing, and world-changing discoveries. Andrea’s multi-hyphenate careers (she is equally comfortable entertaining at comedy clubs, speaking to Fortune 500 companies, and sitting behind the podcast mic) prove data is the foundation of how we live, how we make decisions, and how we can make the world a better place. Dr. Dan and Andrea define data and then discuss the data related to our current moment in history. They explore why democratizing data science empowers everyone—not just statisticians—to make sense of the numbers shaping our world. From political polarization to public health to how we read headlines, Dr. Dan and Andrea tell us how we can all use data

Dr. Dan interviews Michele Y. Smith, the passionate CEO of Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP). Michele’s inspiring journey and people-centered leadership style drive her work at MOPOP and reflect her deep commitment to community-building, empathy, and mentorship. On today’s episode, Michele shares the personal and professional experiences that shaped her. Dr. Dan and Michele explore her dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and developing emerging leaders. Michele explains how pop culture—viewed at MOPOP as a living history—serves to illuminate diverse stories and cultural evolutions. More than just a reflection of our society, MOPOP aims to help shape a more inclusive and impactful cultural future. Dr. Dan and Michele’s riveting and compelling conversation shows us the vital role arts institutions play in preserving music, film, and cultural history for future generations—something we need now more than ever.  For more information visit mopop.org and follow @mopopseattle on Insta

Dr. Dan interviews award-winning syndicated columnist, TEDx speaker, and author Bonnie Jean Feldkamp about her popular Creators column “Holding Space For Good” and how her journalism shows us how to find the good in our communities and ourselves.  On this deeply personal episode, Dr. Dan and Bonnie discuss her decision to leave a prestigious editorial position and commit to aligning her work with her values. Their conversation is real, raw, and a reminder that we can all find and hold the space for good – in our work, family, relationships. Dr. Dan and Bonnie also discuss self-worth, trauma, healing, and living our truth.  Bonnie is passionate about holding space for others to safely express themselves so everyone feels that they belong - a message that will resonate with listeners everywhere.  Bonnie’s column and her YouTube channel are dedicated to holding space for good by sharing compelling stories about the people working to make our communities – and this world – a better place.  Whether you're facing m

In this transformative episode, Dr. Dan sits down with Hayden Lee, a Master Certified Coach who holds the pinnacle of credentials in the coaching industry, to delve deep into the life-changing power of the Enneagram. This conversation is nothing short of mind-opening and mind-altering. The Enneagram, an ancient personality system rooted in spiritual traditions, reveals the core motivations, desires, and fears that shape who we are. Whether in counseling, business, or spiritual development, the Enneagram offers profound insights into our inner workings, helping us understand what drives us and how we can leverage our natural strengths for lasting growth. Throughout this captivating episode, Dr. Dan opens up about his own transformative Enneagram journey with Hayden, offering listeners an intimate look at the power of self-awareness and personal evolution. Together, they explore how identifying our Enneagram type can radically shift the way we view the world, unlock hidden layers of self-understanding, and guid

Dr. Dan speaks to Allison Carmen, a Maria Shriver "Architect of Change," Uncertainty Expert, and creator of The Maybe Mindset — a concept that is in Oprah’s New Dictionary of Enlightenment. Allison teaches us how embracing uncertainty can be our greatest ally. By living in Maybe, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. This powerful mindset helps us break free from the stress of needing to know what’s next and invites us to believe in the potential of the unknown. In this episode, Dr. Dan and Allison dive into The Maybe Mindset and explore how it can transform our lives. They discuss how uncertainty, when welcomed, leads to less fear and more joy. Instead of chasing certainty, we can choose to live in the freedom of "Maybe" — creating room for growth, happiness, and success. Listeners will discover how Maybe can change everything – because Maybe the best is yet to come! Allison Carmen is a TEDx Speaker, host of the 10 Minutes to Less Suffering podcast, and author of The Gift of Maybe: Offering Hope

In this powerful episode, Dr. Dan sits down with Shauna Brittenham Reiter, author of You Are the Boss of You: Cultivate the Mindset and Tools to Live Life on Your Own Terms and founder of Alaya Naturals, a holistic health wellness company. Shauna's journey is inspiring. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease as a teenager, congenital neutropenia in her twenties, and a heart condition in her thirties, Shauna's battles with her health led to a profound story of radical healing. Her path took her from a psychiatric hospital at the age of nineteen to the creation of a multimillion-dollar wellness company before the age of forty. Dr. Dan and Shauna deep dive into the importance of confronting emotional pain and reparenting the parts of ourselves that feel out of control. They also discuss overcoming perfectionism, embracing self-advocacy, and healing deep-seated trauma. Shauna’s journey of healing and self-discovery proves that anything is possible when we face our pain, nurture the world within, and push past the mental

Dr. Dan speaks to “The Kindness Guy” Leon Logothetis, best-selling author, motivational speaker, global adventurer, TV personality, and host of the new documentary The Kindness Within: A Journey to Freedom (the sequel to The Kindness Diaries). Leon believes that kindness can change everything – and so will listeners after hearing today’s Make It a Great One conversation. Before he became “The Kindness Guy,” Leon Logothetis lived an uninspired life as a broker in London. Though seemingly successful, he was chronically depressed. To change his life, Leon gave up everything for life on the road that was fueled by giving and receiving kindness. On his transformative journey to over 100 countries, Leon found that kindness can drive personal and collective transformation and create a brighter future. Dr. Dan and Leon discuss the power of kindness (we are more similar than different), ways to be kind (follow Leon’s kindness recipe), and how The Kindness Within led to Leon’s discovery that the true meaning of life is

Dr. Dan interviews podcast legend STEVEN RAY MORRIS, the “Steven” millions of fans of the My Favorite Murder podcast yell loudly to when they see him IRL. Steven Ray Morris is a podcast producer, host, and audio engineer/editor. Steven shares his personal story and journey - from growing up in an over-achieving family to discovering dinosaurs, murderinos, okapis, and more. Steven follows his bliss – and the powerful takeaway for listeners is the same: following our bliss brings us to the next right thing. An OG in the podcast space, Steven Ray Morris is well known for his seven-year journey working on the true crime comedy podcast phenomenon My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. He co-hosted the cat podcast The Purrrcast and currently hosts See Jurassic Right (a podcast about Jurassic Park as well as movies, science, and curiosity). Steven also produces the popular Step By Step rewatch podcast, Keanan And Lakin Give You Déjà Vu, with former TGIF stars Christine Lakin and Stacy Keana

Dr. Dan speaks to podcast phenomenon Brittani Ard, host of You Probably Think This Story's About You on this powerful episode. Raw, haunting, and achingly human, Brittani’s podcast isn’t your typical true crime story - it is her riveting story about relationships, life, love, family, survival, deception, secrets, pain, and ultimately overcoming challenges to heal and live a life of self-awareness and empowerment. Brittani’s podcast has touched millions of listeners - You Probably Think This Story’s About You hit #1 on Apple Podcasts in both “All Categories" and "True Crime" and #1 in “True Crime” on Spotify, hitting 5 million downloads in the first 4 months. Dr. Dan and Brittani talk about pursuing our passions, living authentically, modeling empathy, healing emotional wounds, wisdom to her life.  Brittani Ard is a mother to six from age 18-29 (three biological children, two adopted brothers, and a bonus mom to her stepson/ex-husband). With her adventurous spirit, and nurturing heart, Brittani Ard strives

Dr. Dan interviews award-winning composer, jazz musician, and author Hayes Greenfield about self-acceptance and authenticity. In an interview that flows and grooves like jazz improvisation, their conversation is spontaneous, rhythmic, bright, and complex. Growing up with dyslexia in the 60s/70s when knowledge about the diagnosis was limited, Hayes struggled in formal educational settings. At 16, he found the saxophone and eventually forged his own path as a full-time musician, composer, and educator.     Hayes tells Dan that “music is the closest thing to magic” and that it teaches us about purposeful listening, passion, excellence, memory and cognitive flexibility, and  ultimately, about acceptance. Dan agrees that Hayes Greenfield’s unique approach is the foundation for a life of joy, wellbeing, and critical thinking. Hayes Greenfield’s music has been reviewed in The New York Times and Billboard; he has scored more than 70 films, documentaries, commercials, animations, and TV specials. Hayes is the founder

For Women’s History Month, Dr. Dan speaks to bestselling author, humorist, and feminist icon Gina Barreca about famous women in history and why these women’s voices and stories matter now more than ever. Their conversation is impactful and thought-provoking whether Dan and Gina are talking about Taylor Swift, Joan Rivers, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Fannie Brice, or Patti LaBelle – all featured in her new book Fast Famous Women – because these women changed history and challenged the patriarchy. With passion and purpose, Dan and Gina cover urgent 2025 topics including listening to women, believing women, and respecting women. They discuss power dynamics, the two “f” words (feminism and fear), and why Gina’s 4-volume Fast Women series is hopeful, timely, and necessary reading. For more information www.ginabarreca.com and follow @gina.barreca on Instagram as well as @woodhallpress for the books. Please follow, rate, and review Make It a Great One on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Foll

*Trigger warning: mention of suicide Dan reunites with Jonathan Mooney, an award-winning writer, activist, and friend. Their conversation is an intensely personal and rich discussion about purpose, service, disability, difference, and ultimately, humanity. Jonathan is a Neurodiversity and Disability Advocate with dyslexia and ADHD who did not learn to read until he was twelve years old. He shares intimate stories about his parents, his challenges, and his deep purpose to change the world’s view of differences. Dan and Jonathan challenge us all to collectively work towards equity by focusing on asking “What is right with you?” and not “What is wrong with you?” because every individual has value intrinsically. Every. Single. Human. An activist and writer, Jonathan aims to shift cultural perceptions of neurodivergence and disability away from the traditional pathology model and towards a social justice-centric model that embraces different experiences across the human continuum. Jonathan has spent his profess

Dr. Dan interviews the astonishing activist, author, TEDx speaker, and social entrepreneur Ann Medlock. An editor, speaker, educator and Founder of the Giraffe Heroes Project, Ann lives fully every single day grounding herself in Ram Daas’ “be here now”  and does so in her signature constantly moving pace. Ann and Dan discuss living with courage, listening to “the force” (#StarWars), embracing flow state, and as Gloria Steinam said about her poetry “...turning poetry into real life, and real life into poetry."   This lively, alive conversation reminds us that we have a finite time in this world so let’s embrace all there is to see, do, and learn. Ann tells us to live fearlessly and intentionally at 20, 30, 50, 70, or almost 92 (like Ann) and always “do the next right thing.” Please listen, follow, rate, and review Make It a Great One on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @drdanpeters on social media. Visit www.drdanpeters.com and send your questions or guest pitches to podca

Dr. Dan interviews author, adventurer and Giraffe Heroes Project Executive Director John Graham about his fascinating journey from thrill-seeker to a man searching for the real meaning of his life. This honest and riveting conversation will move and inspire listeners to search for the meaning and calling of their own lives.  A former diplomat and a current citizen activist, John Graham believes that a full life demands passionate involvement and that living fully often means taking risks. He tells Dan that giving everything we’ve got both body and soul is the way to finding what makes our lives truly meaningful - to ourselves and in service of others. Please listen, follow, rate, and review Make It a Great One on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @drdanpeters on social media. Visit www.drdanpeters.com and send your questions or guest pitches to podcast@drdanpeters.com. More information www.johngraham.org and www.giraffe.org; on Instagram @giraffe_heroes_project and @johngr

Make It a Great One with Dr. Dan is a weekly podcast that invites you to discover your purpose, explore new possibilities, and live in alignment with your true self.   Hosted by Psychologist and Executive Coach Dr. Dan Peters, the show features inspiring interviews with thought leaders and experts designed to ignite hope, deepen self-awareness, and provide actionable wisdom. Each episode is designed to empower you to become a better version of yourself and make a positive impact on the world around you.   With new episodes every Thursday, Make It a Great One offers a dose of inspiration, motivation, and practical guidance to support your personal growth and fulfillment.   Tune in to unlock new possibilities, cultivate hope, and begin living the life you’ve always envisioned. Through profound insights and grounded guidance, Dr. Dan will help you make every moment, every day, and your life, a great one.    Debuts on February 6, 2025. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.   Follow @drdanpeters on social media.

The countdown is on: the trailer for Dr. Dan’s new podcast drops on Sunday February 2! Each episode is designed to empower you to become a better version of yourself and make a positive impact on the world around you. Every Thursday, Dr. Dan will help you unlock new possibilities, cultivate hope, and begin living the life you’ve always envisioned.  Our first episode drops on February 6, 2025.  We can’t wait to hear what you think about the new show! For more updates visit drdanpeters.com and follow @drdanpeters on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices