What’s Your Story, Melanie Sue Hicks – From global adventures to amplifying stories and resilience

In this episode, we chat with Melanie Sue Hicks, PhD a world traveler, author, and advocate for human connection. Melanie shares insights into her personal journey, from embracing travel as a form of personal growth to balancing multiple projects with her diagnosis of ADHD. Through storytelling and exploration, she dives into her experiences working with communities worldwide, founding a publishing company, and advocating for mental well-being. Join us for a conversation that explores resilience, connection, and the power of storytelling.

What You’ll Hear:

  1. Melanie’s Early Influences and Career Path:
    • Growing up in a family that valued hard work, travel, and service, Melanie was inspired by her parents to experience the world and make a difference.
    • Her career path spans from nonprofit work to publishing and leading transformational experiences for others.
  2. Travel as Personal Transformation:
    • Melanie shares her love of exploring different cultures and connecting with people through service projects across Nepal, Sierra Leone, and more.
    • Memorable travel experiences, including a recent trip to Nepal where she immersed herself in local communities.
  3. Diagnosed with ADHD as an Adult:
    • Discovering her diagnosis helped Melanie develop routines and structures for managing her productivity and focus.
    • She discusses the importance of self-compassion and creating personal systems for staying grounded amidst a busy life.
  4. Balancing Multiple Projects:
    • Melanie talks about running her publishing company, writing books, and coaching aspiring authors.
    • Her approach to productivity includes prioritizing tasks, using digital tools like Todoist, and setting boundaries to maintain balance.
  5. New Book, Shaking Off the Ashes:
    • Melanie shares her process of curating Shaking Off the Ashes, a collaborative poetry collection that explores healing and resilience.
    • The book is divided into themes of grief, anger, recognition, and thriving, drawing from personal experiences and connecting with readers on an emotional level.
  6. Reflections on Resilience and Connection:
    • Melanie’s philosophy of amplifying others’ stories, encouraging connection, and learning through different life stages.
    • Embracing curiosity as a driving force and her commitment to meaningful, human-centered work.

Insights:

  • “Connection is the foundation of resilience.” – Melanie Sue Hicks
  • “Travel teaches us that differences are beautiful and worth celebrating.” – Melanie Sue Hicks
  • “Everyone should have a verb; mine is ‘amplifier.’ I believe in amplifying the impact of others.” – Melanie Sue Hicks

Resources:

If Melanie’s journey resonates with you, please subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring conversations. Share this episode with friends who might benefit from insights on resilience, travel, or starting their own creative journey.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for joining this insightful conversation with Melanie Sue Hicks. Remember, travel is about more than just destinations—it’s about growth and connection. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

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