Welcome to the Purple Stars Podcast, the place where every life story and paw print has the power to touch your heart and inspire meaningful change. I'm your host, Sarah Hoelzl – a high-performance coach, company founder, author, and animal lover.
We bring together guests from diverse backgrounds who all share an unwavering love for our furry companions. From passionate entrepreneurs and visionary arti ...
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How do you move forward when the past feels too heavy to carry? Today, we sit down with Ryan Woodruff, CEO of Clear Path for Veterans, a man who knows what it’s like to struggle in the aftermath of service. As a Marine who served in Iraq, Ryan faced loss, isolation, and the challenge of finding purpose again. But it was a dog—Harley—who showed him that love, connection, and resilience can change a life. This episode is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always a path back to more light. Join us to discover: 1. How Ryan's Military Experience Shaped His Purpose Today 2. The Challenges Veterans Face When Reintegrating into Society 3. The Transformative Power of Canine Companions in Mental Health 4. The Incredible Work of Clear Path for Veterans and How to Turn Trauma into Purpose This episode is perfect for you if: · You’ve faced loss and are searching for hope · You're seeking inspiration on overcoming adversity · You want to learn how small steps create lasting change Ryan reminds us that we are never alone and that there is always a hand—or a paw—ready to help us stand again. If this conversation touched your heart, share it with someone who needs it. And remember: healing is a journey, and you never have to walk it alone. We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode @purplestars.world. Sending lots of love, Sarah What we discussed: 05:44 The Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life 12:17 The Role of Community in Healing 19:58 Morning Routines & Finding Structure After Service 31:55 Clear Path for Veterans: Mission & impact 37:00 Meet Harley: The Dog That Changed Ryan’s Life 40:04 Turning Grief Into Purpose & Service 50:34 Your Question, Our Answer: I've been through so much in my life, and I'm terrified to face my past. What would you suggest? Connect with Ryan Woodruff: Website: https://www.clearpath4vets.com Facebook: ClearPathForVeterans Instagram: @clearpath4vets YouTube: @ClearPath4Vets Connect with us: Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
WOW! Time is flying. I can’t believe it’s been a year since we adopted our dog Felix. What better time than his first gotcha day and pupaversary to dedicate an episode to him? I’m sharing the beautiful, emotional, and unforgettable experience of how he became part of our family. From fostering to following endless dog rescue accounts to the moment I held him for the first time, this episode is all about love, connection, and the magic of finding your soul-dog. Join me to hear: • The emotional journey of searching for the right dog and why fostering wasn’t for me. • The moment I knew Felix was the one and the rush of getting everything ready overnight. • How adopting Felix has changed my life in ways I never expected. This episode is for you if: • You’re thinking about adopting a dog but feel unsure if you’re ready. • You love heartwarming adoption stories and want to celebrate the joy of pet companionship. • You adore dogs and just want to hear a feel-good story! • Honestly, I think this is episode is for everyone – who doesn’t love to hear a love story between humans and pups? So grab a cozy drink, and let’s celebrate the gift animals give us! Trust me, this one will make your heart melt. I’d love to hear your personal love stories, head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share them with us! Sending lots of love, Sarah Connect with us: Website: https://purple-stars.us Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
What if a single question could change the way you see your fears and unlock new possibilities? In this episode, I’m sharing the profound question I’ll be asking every guest I interview in 2025—an invitation to embrace your fears, rise above them, and step boldly into the life you truly desire. This question has already sparked incredible conversations, and now, I want to bring it to you. To help you explore it more deeply, I’m also guiding you through a simple yet powerful 8-minute practice—designed to connect you with your heart’s deepest wisdom, move beyond hesitation, and take inspired action starting today. Join me to discover: 1. The one question that can change how you approach the rest of 2025. 2. My courage of wings practice. 3. How to connect with your heart’s wisdom in just 8 minutes. This episode is perfect for you if: You’re feeling stuck and need a new perspective on your fears. You love heart-centered questions that spark reflection. You’re looking for a simple, guided practice to gain clarity. You want to start embracing your dreams with more confidence. I’m so excited for you to connect with your heart’s deepest desires and take inspired action. I would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love, Sarah Download your FREE guided Courage of Wings practice: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/9rsh8jb5rpsom3d34tcon/ANjZ9tk5hUybNnTUtKHgXho?rlkey=4yx6kad5jcjtv8zvbjl3csd9d&dl=0 Connect with us: Website: https://purple-stars.us Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld
What if the key to healing is already within you? 🌿 In this episode, we sit down with Amy Fitzjames, founder of Calm + Well and a practitioner of the ancient Japanese acupressure art, Jin Shin Jyutsu. Amy shares her journey from facing health challenges to discovering holistic healing—and how she now helps others reconnect with their bodies. Join us for an inspiring conversation on deep healing, self-awareness, and the magic of tuning into our bodies. We’ll explore: 1. What Jin Shin Jyutsu Is & How It Can Transform Your Health 2. What Your Physical Symptoms Reveal About Emotional Well-Being 3. Practical Self-Care Techniques for Any Busy Daily Life 4. How Healing Energy Impacts Not Just Us, but Also Our Pets This episode is perfect for you if: · You struggle with stress, anxiety, or chronic health issues · You’re curious about holistic healing and energy work · You love animals and want to explore energy healing with them Our bodies hold stories and whisper truths we need to hear. When we listen, we unlock healing and incredible self-discovery. I hope this conversation encourages you to know that, no matter where you are on your journey, transformation is always possible. We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Sending lots of love, Sarah What we discussed: 00:00 Coming Up with Amy Fitzjames 03:00 Amy’s Journey to Holistic Healing 08:10 The Moment Everything Shifted for Her 10:14 What is Jin Shin Jyutsu? 15:16 Overcoming Skepticism and Acceptance of Energy Healing 20:25 Self-Care Meditation & Listening to the Body 28:04 How to Start Your Own Self-Care Practice 33:04 Do Pets Benefit from Energy Healing? 37:01 A Simple Self-Care Exercise to Try at Home 39:35 Your Question, Our Answer: “Finding Time for Yourself Amidst All Responsibilities” Connect with Amy Fitzjames: Her Instagram @campluswell Her Podcast Our Wellness Diary with Amy Fitzjames Connect with us: Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
Have you ever wondered if you have the strength to change your life? This episode is for you. I sit down with celebrated author and content creator Anna Kloots. She opens up about her journey from feeling lost in a life dictated by others to reclaiming her magic, finding independence, and building the life of her dreams in Paris. We talk about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to start over. Join us to discover: 1. How to recognize when you've lost yourself in a relationship 2. The fear and freedom of starting over from scratch 3. Why the worst moments in life can be the beginning of something beautiful 4. Why it is never too late to reclaim your own magic This episode is perfect for you if: · You feel stuck in a life that doesn’t feel like your own · You’ve ever compromised your happiness for someone else · You want to believe in your own magic again Anna’s story is a powerful reminder that even when everything falls apart, you still have yourself—and that is enough to start over. So, what if, for the first time, you trusted yourself the way you've trusted others? Maybe this is the moment to find out. We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love, Sarah What we discussed: 04:42 When Love Makes You Disappear Little by Little 07:31 Losing Everything— but Finally Finding Herself 20:08 The Patterns that Keep Us Stuck 27:40 The Tiny Compromises that Slowly Erase You 39:43 What My Own Magic Truly Means 53:00 Why Sharing your Story Can Change Someone Else’s 01:15:06 Your Question, Our Answer: “How Do I Know If I’m in the Right Relationship?” 01:20:00 Fall in Love with Miette Connect with Anna Kloots: Instagram @annakloots Her dog @leparisienpoodle Book "My Own Magic" Her Paris Guide Connect with us: Website: https://purple-stars.us Instagram: @purplestars.world Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.