In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, host James sits down with R.L. Carpentier, a veteran law enforcement officer turned crime fiction writer. Rodney shares his journey from studying English literature to unexpectedly entering law enforcement and how he rekindled his love for storytelling after nearly two decades on the force. His debut novel, Our Lady of the Overlook, is the first in a gripping crime thriller series that merges real-world policing experience with compelling storytelling.

Rodney walks us through the moment of inspiration that led to his novel, how he overcame imposter syndrome, and the writing strategies that helped him bring his book to life. He shares insights on crafting realistic police procedurals, the importance of self-imposed deadlines, and how he balances his creative work with his career. He also discusses his approach to self-publishing, working with editors, and building a writing platform ahead of his upcoming retirement.

If you've ever wanted to write a book but struggled with getting started, this episode is packed with actionable advice and motivation.

[00:00:00] Introduction

• Welcome to A Joyful Rebellion
• James introduces guest R.L. Carpentier

[00:01:00] The Inspiration for Our Lady of the Overlook

• Rodney’s background in law enforcement and literature
• How a late-night shift sparked the idea for his novel

[00:03:30] From College Writer to Police Officer

• Studying English and idolizing the Lost Generation authors
• How he drifted away from writing when he started his career

[00:06:00] The Turning Point: Why Writing Had to Happen

• Losing his father and reevaluating his life path
• The moment he decided: I have to do this for me

[00:09:00] Learning the Craft & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

• Discovering storytelling techniques like Save the Cat
• Finding editors and trusting the revision process

[00:12:00] Self-Publishing: The Reality of Making a Book Happen

• The step-by-step process of hiring editors, designers, and proofreaders
• Attending writing conferences to build confidence and connections

[00:18:00] Realistic Crime Writing: Blending Fact with Fiction

• How Rodney balances procedural accuracy with compelling storytelling
• Navigating what can and cannot be shared from law enforcement experience

[00:22:00] The Evolution of a Trilogy

• How Our Lady of the Overlook expanded into a three-book series
• What’s coming in books two and three

[00:26:00] Financing & Marketing a Self-Published Book

• How Rodney used overtime work to fund his debut novel
• Considering Kickstarter for future projects

[00:30:00] Building a Writing Career Before Retirement

• Planning ahead for his post-law enforcement creative career
• The importance of having a platform before transitioning careers

[00:34:00] Final Thoughts & Advice

• The philosophy that shaped his approach: Early is on time, on time is late, late is not acceptable
• Where to find Our Lady of the Overlook and connect with Rodney

Guest Website & Newsletter Signup: rlcarpentierwriter.com Buy Our Lady of the Overlook: Available on Amazon & Direct from Author Follow Rodney on Patreon: (Link to be provided by guest)

Podcast Episode Summary

In this insightful episode of A Joyful Rebellion, host James sits down with Kareen Aristide, a human behavior consultant and mental health advocate, to discuss the profound difference between happiness and joy. Kareen shares her personal journey—from a thriving career to a life-altering crash that forced her to reevaluate success, purpose, and well-being.

She introduces the DISC personality model, explaining how self-awareness can help individuals break free from societal expectations, avoid burnout, and make career and life choices that align with their true nature.

They dive deep into why high-achievers often struggle with fulfillment, the dangers of overachievement, and the warning signs that signal an impending crash.

Kareen also provides actionable advice on how to cultivate joy, set boundaries, and align personal and professional growth with individual strengths. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a high-performer, or someone feeling stuck, this episode will inspire you to rethink success and embrace a more intentional, fulfilling path.

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Guest Website: KareenAristide.com Free DISC Training & Resources: SleekBio.com/KareenAristide

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Tune in to learn how to shift from doing to being—and discover a more joyful, authentic way to live.

[00:00:00] Introduction

• Welcome to A Joyful Rebellion
• James introduces guest Kareen Aristide
• The importance of distinguishing between joy and happiness

[00:02:00] Understanding Societal Expectations

• Why success doesn’t always equal fulfillment
• The weight of external expectations from family, society, and culture

[00:03:30] Kareen’s Personal Journey

• How a career in counseling led to self-discovery
• Her transition from employment counselor to mompreneur
• The car crash that changed everything

[00:07:00] The Concept of "Being Before Doing"

• Why high achievers often lose themselves in their work
• The importance of self-awareness in creating a meaningful life

[00:10:00] Exploring the DISC Personality Model

• Overview of DISC personality types (D – Dominant, I – Inspiring, S – Supportive, C – Cautious)
• How understanding personality helps in relationships and careers
• How Kareen used DISC to improve her marriage and business

[00:18:00] Applying DISC to Work and Life

• How personality impacts leadership, delegation, and productivity
• Why burnout often stems from operating outside of your natural strengths
• How entrepreneurs can balance drive vs. sustainability

[00:25:00] The Warning Signs of Burnout

• What most people ignore before they crash
• How to recognize when your body and mind are warning you
• The role of journaling and self-reflection in staying aligned

[00:30:00] Managing Mental Health as an Entrepreneur

• Why entrepreneurs rarely ask for help until it’s too late
• The importance of therapy, self-care, and intentional pauses
• How Kareen integrates mental health and personal growth in her work

[00:36:00] Cultivating Joy Over Happiness

• Why joy is a state of being, while happiness is fleeting
• How to cultivate long-term joy despite temporary challenges
• Finding fulfillment in everyday moments

[00:42:00] Final Thoughts & Takeaways

• Recap of key insights
• Where to find Kareen’s free DISC resources and training
• Kareen’s upcoming book on mental health and personality styles

https://kimrahir.com/

https://ajoyfulrebellion.com/

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In this inspiring episode of A Joyful Rebellion, James chats with Kim Rahir, a 60-year-old mother of three, European Masters Weightlifting Champion, and health coach. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 10 years ago, Kim defied conventional advice and used strength training to reclaim her health and independence.

Kim shares her journey from paralysis and uncertainty to empowerment and strength, discussing how her personal rebellion against her diagnosis transformed her life. She now dedicates her work to helping women in midlife rediscover their health, confidence, and resilience through fitness and strength training.

Whether you’re navigating a health challenge or simply want to feel stronger and more in control of your life, Kim’s story offers actionable insights and motivation to take charge of your well-being.

1. [00:00] Introduction: Meet Kim Rahir, her inspiring bio, and the importance of joyful rebellion.

2. [03:00] Receiving the MS Diagnosis: Facing darkness, fear, and redefining life after a life-altering diagnosis.

3. [07:30] Choosing Strength: How Kim began strength training to take back her power and rebuild trust in her body.

4. [12:00] From Gym Newbie to Champion: The journey to becoming a European Masters Weightlifting Champion.

5. [16:00] Helping Women in Midlife Thrive: Kim’s work with women over 40 and why strength training is essential.

6. [20:30] Breaking Myths Around Women and Fitness: Addressing fears about “bulking up” and starting slow.

7. [25:00] The Power of Simple, Sustainable Habits: Why small steps and consistency make all the difference.

8. [31:00] Nutrition and Common Misconceptions: Dispelling food myths and how to reconnect with your body.

9. [36:00] Finding Your Pivotal Moment: Why mindset shifts are key to starting a health journey.

10. [40:00] Final Advice: Kim’s empowering message—ask yourself, “What can I do now?”

Men’s Groups and the New Masculinity: A Conversation with Jason Lange

In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, James sits down with Jason Lange, men’s guide, coach, and founder of Evolutionary Men. Together, they explore the modern challenges men face and why men’s groups are becoming a powerful solution for personal growth. Jason shares his journey from feeling disconnected to becoming a leader in men’s development, offering insights into how cultural shifts have redefined masculinity. From navigating relationships to building better communities, this conversation dives deep into how men can find purpose and thrive.

1. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Jason Lange and the importance of men’s groups.

2. 05:00 – Redefining Masculinity: How cultural shifts shaped modern manhood.

3. 15:00 – Finding Your Tribe: Why men’s groups matter and how to find one.

4. 25:00 – Breaking the Lone Wolf Myth: The importance of community for men.

5. 35:00 – Actionable Insights: Jason’s advice for men ready to grow.

6. 50:00 – Closing Thoughts: Key takeaways and how to connect with Jason.

• Jason Lange’s Website: evolutionary.men

• Book Mentioned: No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover

• Jason’s Podcast: Evolutionary Men Podcast

men’s groups, modern masculinity, Jason Lange, personal growth for men, mentorship for men, breaking stereotypes, men’s mental health, emotional resilience, nice guy syndrome, community for men, purpose-driven life.

In this episode, James sits down with Tess Callahan, novelist, teacher, and meditation guide, for a deeply inspiring conversation about creativity, writing, and the transformative power of mindfulness. Tess shares the story behind her upcoming novel Dawnland, a rich exploration of family, secrets, and redemption.

Together, they discuss how Tess uses meditation and dreams as part of her creative process, the concept of creative constraints, and her personal journey balancing the demands of life with her passion for storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a seeker, or someone curious about unlocking your own potential, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice.

1. 00:00 – Introduction: Setting the stage for a conversation with Tess Callahan.

2. 02:00 – Meet Tess: Tess introduces herself and her new book, Dawnland.

3. 09:00 – The Writing Process: Insights into the messy yet magical journey of writing.

4. 17:30 – Dreams and Creativity: How Tess uses dreams to spark inspiration.

5. 24:00 – Meditation for Focus: The role of meditation in her creative and personal life.

6. 32:00 – Creative Constraints: How limits can fuel innovation in writing.

7. 42:00 – Journaling for Self-Discovery: Tess’s advice on writing to pursue your questions.

8. 51:00 – Book Promotion Challenges: Tess reflects on transitioning from writing to promoting.

9. 57:00 – Wrapping Up: James and Tess discuss joyful rebellion and embracing life’s challenges.

• Tess Callahan’s Website: http://www.tesscallahan.com

• Dawnland (Preorder/Order): http://www.tesscallahan.com/dawnland

• Heart Haven Meditations Podcast: Heart Haven Meditations

ajoyfulrebellion.com

infinitylifestyledesign.com

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If you are anything like me, you’ve made the mistake of blaming time for not getting everything you want to do in your life. Statements like “I don’t have time " or “There aren’t enough hours in the day” are as common to say as they are to hear from others, but if we’re being honest with ourselves, they’re just excuses that help us feel better about how our priorities are playing out in our lives.

If you are curious about becoming more intentional about how you use time, then turn up your volume. My guest today is David Buck, who wrote the book on this subject. It’s called The Time Optimized Life, and I feel certain you’ll get at least one great nugget of wisdom out of our conversation.

And hey, if not, you’ll at least get to hear about the type of person I find to be more proud of their lifestyle than both vegans and crossfitters combined, and man, that’s saying a whole lot.

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https://ajoyfulrebellion.com/

https://rkblog.com/

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Do you consider yourself to be creative? My guest today shares his insights on the types of creativity everyone has access to if they work to develop it for themselves.

Rich Kirkpatrick writes, consults, and speaks about the intersection of creativity, faith and leadership. He’s the author of a book called, MINDBLOWN: Unlock Your Creative Genius by Bridging Science and Magic. and today, we are talking about one of my favorite subjects, creativity.

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If you could have the ability to remember the details of every single day of most of your life, would you want to? Recalling every conversation, adventure, misadventure, the weather and the day’s current events on a whim might seem cool at first, but do you think it would it eventually become a burden?

My guest today is Frank Healy. He’s one of about 100 people in the world who can recall every day of his life in vivid detail since he was six years old.

He’s spent his career helping people become the best version of themselves and written several books on the topic of memories and how we can not only heal from, but also triumph over our past traumas to live our best life.