Catherine Law FINAL
Bootstraps
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REPLAY: Living the Joyful Dream with Tommy “The Real Elf” Holl
Bootstraps
Tommy Holl, aka The Real Elf, opens up about surviving cancer, charming Barbara Corcoran (yes — she backed him on Shark Tank!), and choosing radical joy in the face of grief. (You'll also get juicy behind-the-scenes secrets from Shark Tank!). So pull up your bootstraps - and maybe a Candy Cane martini! This one's full of heart, hustle, and elf-ing courage. 🎄 Learn more about Tommy’s magical mission, order an Elfgram or book Tommy for an event at 🎄 Follow Tommy on socials @therealelftommy * VOCAB OF THE DAY: e·bul·lience “the quality of being and full...
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Your Body Knows the Tea — with Licia Sky
Bootstraps
This week I sit down with the incredible Licia Sky — a somatic educator, artist, singer-songwriter, and bodyworker. She helps people reconnect with themselves using mindful meditation in movement, writing, and voice as tools for attunement, healing, and connection. She has also been teaching expanded awareness in workshops around the world, and Licia is also the co-founder of the Trauma Research Foundation, and creative partner (and wife) of The Body Keeps the Score author Dr. Bessel van der Kolk … (Which basically makes her the Beyoncé of trauma healing.) We talk about why...
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Melting the ICE in Chicago
Bootstraps
If you’re overwhelmed, tired, or just trying to make sense of the wacky world we’re livin in — this episode is for you. You’re not alone. If you’re paying attention…It’s a lot. And it’s real. Here in Chicago — families are literally being ripped apart by ICE. We are living through a moment that is asking us to step up. This episode is a reflection. Not to “debate” or “politicize.” But to remember… that all this madness is rooted in the same core truth: Every human being deserves safety, dignity, and the right to belong. * Support the abandoned immigrant children in...
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“Same Soup/Different Seasoning” with Pat Brady & Maureen Muldoon
Bootstraps
Get ready for sparks! ⚡ Two fierce, funny & fab Irish firecrackers, Pat Brady and Maureen Muldoon, sit down to stir the pot in Same Soup, Different Seasoning. Laughs, insight, and a little chaos guaranteed.Two worlds. One table. In this debut of Same Soup, Different Seasoning, former Republican National Committee member, federal prosecutor, & political analyst Pat Brady sits down with me, and my dear friend, Chicago spiritual leader, and creative force Maureen Muldoon for a spirited, laugh-filled conversation. They bring different flavors, challenge assumptions, and show how...
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Thresholds & Turning Points: Mark Ishaug on Leading with Love
Bootstraps
Today we chat with more fam from SOUTH SIDE!! (on my Irish side)...my “reMARKble” cousin, Mark Ishaug — CEO of *Thresholds* in Chicago, longtime HIV/AIDS and mental-health champion, civic collaborator, and unapologetic optimist. He shares tales from the front lines of Chicago, amid the chaos of ICE Raids and the government shut down. Somehow through all of it, Mark continues to tirelessly instill hope ~ creating a lighthouse for thousands of persons with mental illnesses and substance use conditions in Illinois. He exemplifies what it means to build...
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We the People….and the Famigliá: The Nonna Episode
Bootstraps
This week on *Bootstraps,* we’re going back to the South Side, for some laughs & comfort food — to the “Frunchroom” … We’re celebrating Nonna — our funny, fierce, gnocchi making, chocolate chip cookie-baking matriarch. You’ll get a sneak peek into my funny famigliá - and hear stories recorded live from Sister Lakes, Michigan, where we put the fun in dysFUNction at our family reunion this summer! My cousins, aunts, and uncles share favorite mems of Nonna. From her blueberry muffins, perfectly packaged with love & tinfoil into empty Marshall Field’s shirt boxes,...
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REPLAY: Innate Divine GPS - Soul sesh with Sonia Tully
Bootstraps
In this soulful (and spicy) kickoff, I sat down with my radiant, spiritual mentor, a Chicago native, and 4th generation intuitive guide, Sonia Tully! We got real about navigating these apocalyptic times - with heart… AND humor. As Sonia’s Nana taught her: “The situation is critical, but doesn’t have to be serious.” Join us for big Chi-town energy! ✨Learn more about all that Sonia has going on, ✨ To get the # to call your Congressperson, call: 855-971-2533 To call your Senator (& demand they protect healthcare & our communities vs...
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If They Ain't Payin' Your Bills, Don't Pay Them No Mind!
Bootstraps
Family stories can take the wildest turns ... Over 30 years ago, I set up a High School bestie with my older brother, and ended up with a bestie for my child, and one of the most remarkable people in my life—my nephew El. He’s a true Renaissance man, who speaks five languages, and traveled the world while doing research for his PhD in anthropology. He also happens to make me laugh until I cry. Adding to the magic, El’s partner became a global sensation on Amazon Prime’s The Pack, & co-founded “DOUGE” - The Coolest Dog Grooming Salon in L.A. - catching the eye of brands...
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Managing the Meltdowns & Mayhem: Keeping Your Cool with Dr. John Duffy
Bootstraps
This week I sat down with the one and only Dr. John Duffy — clinical psychologist, bestselling author, podcast host, teen whisperer, and all-around good guy you’d want on speed dial when your family group chat goes off the rails. We talk parenting (spoiler: none of us are doing it perfectly), teens (they’re not as scary as they look, I promise), relationships (yep, they’re still confusing), and why a lot of men would rather rebuild a carburetor than sit on a therapist’s couch. Dr. Duffy brings humor, wisdom, and a whole lot of real talk about navigating the chaos of modern life...
info_outlineThis week I sit down with the incredible Licia Sky — a somatic educator, artist, singer-songwriter, and bodyworker. She helps people reconnect with themselves using mindful meditation in movement, writing, and voice as tools for attunement, healing, and connection. She has also been teaching expanded awareness in workshops around the world, and Licia is also the co-founder of the Trauma Research Foundation, and creative partner (and wife) of The Body Keeps the Score author Dr. Bessel van der Kolk … (Which basically makes her the Beyoncé of trauma healing.)
We talk about why your body remembers *everything* (even the stuff you wish it didn’t), how sound can crack open healing, and why play isn’t just for kids — it’s for all of us who are a little emotionally crispy.
Come for the wisdom. Stay for the laughs!
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https://music.apple.com/us/artist/licia-sky
https://www.pesi.com/speaker/licia-sky
https://traumaresearchfoundation.org/
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We want to hear from YOU!!
Do you have an inspirational “Bootstraps” story you’d like to share? Or are you struggling with an issue / need advice / tools from Lisa?
Write to us at: Bootstrappingtales@gmail.com
or
DM Lisa on IG: @sita_whitt
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DISCLAIMER:
The Bootstraps podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health treatment, therapy, diagnosis, or advice. The content presented reflects the personal views and opinions of the host and/or guests and should not be considered clinical or therapeutic guidance. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship between you and the Host, Lisa Whittingham, LCPC, or any of the guests featured on the show. If you are in need of mental health support, please consult a licensed professional in your area. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the host, guests, or any affiliated parties liable for any psychological, emotional, legal, or physical harm or damages that may arise from the content or discussions shared on the show. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency, please contact emergency services or a mental health professional immediately.