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Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen aka...
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Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen aka Happy Ass shares original positive affirmations, stories, and tips to help you live a happier life. Be sweet and remember to follow the podcast to hear new episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Follow Karen's Blog at MyHappyAssLife.com
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Follow Karen's Blog at MyHappyAssLife.com
Episodes & Posts
Episodes
Posts
18 MAR 2025 · Are you living with intention or just going through the motions? This week, I sit down with Samuel and Levi Merritt, two young men who embody purpose, passion, and community impact. From their deep-rooted faith to their environmental conservation work and their growing music career, these brothers show us what it means to live with heart and purpose.
In this episode, we talk about their Merritt Brothers Surf Preservation project, their love for music, and how their faith has guided them in every step. We also discuss the importance of giving back, the power of small daily actions, and why stepping into your calling can bring true joy.Samuel and Levi are a reminder that no matter your age, you can make a difference. Whether it’s protecting our beautiful beaches, playing music that brings people together, or simply showing kindness in everyday life, it all starts with a choice.
Episode Highlights:
[2:00] The Merritt Brothers’ Story
[5:30] Merritt Brothers Surf Preservation
[7:15] The Psychology of Pollution
[9:45] The Birth of Drive By(e) Band
[12:30] Finding Their Musical Voice
[14:45] Staying Focused Through Sports
[18:00] Faith in Action
[25:30] Big Dreams and Future Plans
[35:00] The Power of Small, Daily Actions
[42:00] Final Words of Wisdom
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
Beachy Beach Real Estate – Making home dreams come true with kindness
Contact: (850) 233-4351
Bay Tax – Save big with cost segregation & ERC benefits
Email: team@bay.tax
Phone: (720) 310-0084
The Final Touch Design – Transforming spaces with excellence and faith
Call: (850) 588-6142
Connect with the Merritt Brothers
Follow Samuel and Levi to stay updated on their music, conservation efforts, and upcoming events.
Merritt Brothers Surf Preservation: https://www.facebook.com/MerrittBrotherSurfPreservation/
Bay High Track & Field: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573094960348Let’s
Stay Connected:
Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Be sweet, y’all. Here’s to living intentionally, giving back, and making the world a brighter place.
Presented by ADF Media
10 MAR 2025 · Are you truly doing what you were put on this earth to do? Or are you just doing what you’re good at because it’s familiar?
This week, I’m joined by Josh Taylor, an inspiring voice who challenges us to push past fear and step into the unknown. We dive into the power of defining success on our own terms, why fear is one of the biggest obstacles to growth, and how we can stop being busy just for the sake of it and start doing what actually matters.
Josh shares his belief that the strength within us is far greater than we often realize, and that true happiness isn’t about wealth or status it’s about freedom and fulfilling our purpose. This episode is a powerful reminder that we are the authors of our own stories, and it’s time to pick up the pen.
Episode Highlights:
Episode Highlights:Who Is Josh Taylor?
[02:00] From pastoral ministry to marketing executive
Leaving the Comfort Zone
[05:30] Wrestling with identity and purpose during career transition
The Turning Point
[07:15] Recognizing when it was time to take a leap of faith
When Losing a Job Becomes a Blessing
[09:45] How an unexpected layoff led to unexpected opportunities
Fear Is a Liar
[12:30] Why fear keeps us small and how to overcome it
The Power of Asking the Right Questions
[15:20] How shifting perspective creates new possibilities
The Vision for a Meaningful Life
[17:45] Insights from Viktor Frankl on defining purpose
Redefining Success
[20:30] Why money and status aren’t the only measures of fulfillment
Why Busyness Isn’t the Same as Productivity
[23:15] Focusing on what truly moves the needle
Don’t Sell Yourself Short
[26:00] Recognizing and owning your value
Small Wins Lead to Big Change
[29:45] The power of consistent, intentional action
Building a Life You Actually Love
[32:00] Defining success on your own terms
The Role of Community and Support
[35:20] How the right people encourage growth
The Hard Parts Make Life Sweeter
[38:00] Why challenges and setbacks shape us for the better
How to Create a Life That Aligns With Your Values
[42:30] Practical steps for stepping into your purpose
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
The Final Touch Design – Skip & Marsha Wall
Phone: (850) 588-6142
Bay Tax:
Email: team@bay.tax
Phone: (720) 310-0084
Beachy Beach Real Estate
Phone: (850) 233-4351
Resources Mentioned:
The Next Right Question podcast by Josh Taylor – Life’s biggest transformations don’t start with answers, they start with asking the right questions.
New episodes every Friday.
https://thenextrightquestion.com/
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl:
https://amzn.to/3Tj8v6D
Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller:
https://amzn.to/3FePX7B
Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.Be sweet, y’all! Here’s to living authentically and embracing what makes us truly happy.Presented by ADF Media.
3 MAR 2025 · I’m beyond excited to kick off a brand-new season with y’all, and we’re starting with a message that’s been on my heart: the power of our words and how they can build up or tear down, and why we must choose kindness every time.In this episode, I’m sharing what breaks my heart (hint: unkindness), the lessons I’ve learned from Andy Stanley, and why it takes five to nine positive words to counter a single negative one. Plus, we’ve got some amazing new sponsors on board this season, and I can’t wait for you to meet them!
Episode Highlights:
🕰 [00:30] Welcome to Season 5!
🤝 [02:15] Meet our sponsors
💔 [05:30] What breaks my heart
📖 [09:00] A powerful Bible verse about words + why “but only” is everything
🗣 [12:45] The weight of our words: Why negative words are heavier & harder to erase
💭 [16:20] “What does love require of me?” A life-changing question
📖 [20:00] A story about judgment, perception, & why kindness always wins
🎙 [24:30] Exciting guest lineup! Meet the inspiring voices joining us this season
🙌 [28:00] Closing thoughts + today’s affirmation: What Breaks My Heart
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🌟 The Final Touch Design – Skip & Marsha Wall Phone: https://www.google.com/search?q=the+final+touch+design&oq=the+final+touch&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDAgAECMYJxiABBiKBTIMCAAQIxgnGIAEGIoFMg0IARAuGK8BGMcBGIAEMgYIAhBFGDkyBggDEEUYQDIGCAQQIxgnMgcIBRAAGIAEMgoIBhAuGLEDGIAEMgYIBxBFGDzSAQgzNjIxajBqN6gCALACAA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
🌟 Bay Tax – EMAIL: team@bay.taxPHONE: (720) 310-0084
🌟 Beachy Beach Real Estate – Phone: https://www.google.com/search?q=beachy+beach+real+estate&oq=beachy+beach+rea&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDAgAECMYJxiABBiKBTIMCAAQIxgnGIAEGIoFMg0IARAuGK8BGMcBGIAEMgYIAhBFGDkyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyCAgFEAAYFhgeMggIBhAAGBYYHjIICAcQABgWGB4yCAgIEAAYFhgeMggICRAAGBYYHtIBCDUwNzFqMGo0qAIAsAIB&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-81
Resources Mentioned:
📖 How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie:https://bit.ly/3XrXplX
📖 The Next Right Question podcast by Josh Taylor:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4BOvNZfdl79giSFuAos9GT?si=WtKaE0j6TFyTRZXVrBW25w
📖 The Bible Ephesians 4:29:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204%3A29&version=NIV
Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode!💛 Be sweet, y’all! Here’s to an incredible Season 5!Presented by ADF Media.
24 FEB 2025 · Today, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation about personal growth, humility, and focusing on our journey instead of judging others. Inspired by a recent lesson in self-awareness (and a humbling TV interview 😂), I’m reflecting on how true transformation happens when we tend to our own side of the street.I’m also sharing insights from The Miracle Morning and a life-changing Jim Rohn quote that reminds us: Success is something you attract by the person you become. If you’ve ever found yourself caught up in someone else’s actions instead of focusing on your own growth, this episode is for you!
Episode Highlights:
[00:30] A quick update & why we’re replaying this conversation
[02:00] My recent lesson in humility & self-reflection
[05:45] The power of personal development and owning your growth
[09:30] The “Level 10” mindset from The Miracle Morning
[12:00] The Jim Rohn quote that changed my perspective
[15:00] Learning from mistakes without beating ourselves up
[18:30] Why focusing on your own growth leads to true peace
[20:00] Today’s affirmation
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🌟 The Final Touch – Skip & Marsha Wall | Custom cabinetry & countertops
🌟 Bay Tax – Cost segregation, ERC benefits & more with Brian Yormack
🌟 Beachy Beach Real Estate – Call 850-233-4351
Resources Mentioned:
📖 The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod:
https://bit.ly/4bgyYOb📖 Jim Rohn’s Success Principles:https://bit.ly/4gZ8mm1
Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio so you never miss an episode!💛 Be sweet, y’all. See you next week with a brand-new episode!Presented by ADF Media.
17 FEB 2025 · Today, we’re wrapping up Season 4 with a powerful message about the words we speak over ourselves and others. Inspired by Awakening Who I Am by Dan McCormick and Ken Shelton, and his idea of what follows “I am” follows you.I’m also sharing a little life update—recording from my car on the way to play golf (because self-love looks like tee time today! ⛳️). Plus, I’ll be introducing some exciting new sponsors for Season 5 and reflecting on the sweetest acts of kindness I’ve seen lately.
Episode Highlights:
[00:30] Wrapping up Season 4 & what’s coming in Season 5
[02:00] Meet our new sponsors: The Final Touch & Bay Tax
[04:30] The power of words: What follows “I am” follows you
[06:15] How affirmations can shift your mindset and rewrite old beliefs
[09:00] The Miracle Morning & how daily habits can change everything
[12:30] Movement + affirmations: A trick from Tony Robbins to make them stick
[15:45] A sweet story about kindness from my grandbabies ❤️
[18:00] Why every day should feel like Valentine’s Day
[20:00] Closing thoughts & a powerful “I am” affirmation
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🌟 The Final Touch – Skip & Marsha Wall | Custom cabinetry & countertops
🌟 Bay Tax – Cost segregation, ERC benefits & more with Brian Yormack
🌟 Beachy Beach Real Estate – Call 850-233-4351
Resources Mentioned:
📖https://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Who-Am-Ignite-Transformation/dp/B0DMHT14RS/ref=asc_df_B0DMHT14RS?mcid=e742216d270f35608942248438c49460&hvocijid=5833193647645478392-B0DMHT14RS-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=730434177080&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5833193647645478392&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011617&hvtargid=pla-2281435179578&psc=1
📖https://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Salesman-World-Og-Mandino/dp/055327757X/ref=asc_df_055327757X?mcid=0d6674d612fe3561bffcfe8402408b84&hvocijid=2861757092805045960-055327757X-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=730434177080&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2861757092805045960&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011617&hvtargid=pla-2281435179298&psc=1
📖 https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Updated-Expanded-Not-So-Obvious/dp/163774434X/ref=asc_df_163774434X?mcid=24418e631281399d961b204cdb03046e&hvocijid=17505060165697902787-163774434X-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=730434177080&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17505060165697902787&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011617&hvtargid=pla-2281435180738&psc=1
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio so you never miss an episode!
💛 Be sweet, y’all. See you in Season 5!
Presented by ADF Media.
10 FEB 2025 · Today, I’m thrilled to welcome JT from Evolve with JT—a transformational health and life coach dedicated to helping people over 40 break free from mediocrity and step into their best, healthiest lives and today we’re talking about the dangers of "Good Enough Syndrome," the power of setting high goals, and why true transformation requires commitment beyond quick fixes. JT shares his personal health journey, the philosophy behind his coaching, and why taking ownership of our well-being is the ultimate form of self-respect. This episode is a powerful reminder that we are the solution to our struggles—and if we want to live a long, healthy life, it starts with the daily choices we make today.
Connect with JT https://www.evolvewithjt.com
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🌟 Beachy Beach Real Estate – Call 850-233-4351
🌟 Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge)
Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance
🌟 Bay Tax – Email team@bay.tax
| Phone 720-310-0084
Resources Mentioned:
📖https://www.amazon.com/Take-Stairs-Steps-Achieving-Success/dp/0399537767
📖https://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Imperfection-Think-Supposed-Embrace/dp/159285849X
📖 Courage to Change (Al-Anon Daily Reader)
Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio so you never miss an episode!💛 Be sweet, y’all. See you next time!
Presented by ADF Media.
3 FEB 2025 · Today, I’m sharing my thoughts on what it means to truly live in alignment with our purpose, relationships, and personal growth. Inspired by the passing of a dear friend, this conversation reflects on how life’s transitions challenge us to let go of what no longer serves us and embrace the life we are meant to live.I share the struggles of perfectionism, the challenge of forming deep relationships, and the powerful lesson that our new life will cost us our old one.
Episode Highlights:
[00:30] The shift to weekly episodes and why it’s been an adjustment.
[01:00] Reflections on loss, relationships, and being present in life.
[03:00] The challenge of going deep in relationships and embracing vulnerability.
[04:30] Lessons from The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown.
[07:00] The power of intention and making space for what truly matters.
[10:30] Growing up in survival mode and unlearning old patterns.
[12:00] Finding the balance between striving and surrendering.
[14:30] The impact of external opinions and learning to let go.
[16:00] Why being truly authentic is harder than it seems.
[18:00] Choosing kindness, compassion, and seeing the best in others.
[19:30] Living wholeheartedly and making space for personal growth.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
🌟 Beachy Beach Real Estate – Call 850-233-4351
🌟 Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge) – Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance
🌟 Bay Tax – Email team@bay.tax | Phone 720-310-0084
Resources Mentioned:
📖 The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
📖 Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
📖 Courage to Change (Al-Anon Daily Reader)
Let’s Stay Connected:
Follow along on social media @MyHappyAssLife, and don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio so you never miss an episode!
💛 Be sweet, y’all. See you next time! Presented by ADF Media.
27 JAN 2025 · In this special episode, I’m sitting down with my incredible producer and friend, Ashley Feller, for a behind-the-scenes conversation about how My Happy Ass Life has grown, evolved and what’s next for the podcast. We talk about the journey from live streams to fully produced episodes, the challenges of embracing new formats, and the power of storytelling and community in everything we do.Ashley and I also open up about vulnerability, grace, and how life’s unexpected moments can lead to beautiful growth. From the importance of mental health to learning how to give ourselves permission to rest, this episode is a raw and honest look at the heart of this podcast.
Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussions of suicide and trauma. Please listen with care and seek support if needed.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:30] Kicking things off: How the podcast started and how it’s evolving.
- [03:45] The story behind the name My Happy Ass Life and pushing through criticism.
- [07:20] Ashley’s journey from musician to podcast producer.
- [10:00] The shift from daily episodes to a fully produced weekly podcast.
- [15:30] The role of vulnerability and honesty in sharing struggles.
- [18:45] Marketing as a reflection of your soul print: Lessons from Seth Godin.
- [23:10] How unexpected opportunities can lead to life-changing connections.
- [28:00] Balancing creativity, business, and personal growth.
- [32:45] The power of storytelling and building community over chasing numbers.
- [37:15] Mental health, codependency, and the importance of getting help.
- [42:30] Big dreams for the future of My Happy Ass Life.
- [47:00] Ending on gratitude: The beauty of authentic, loving relationships.
Special Thanks:A heartfelt thank you to our amazing sponsors for supporting this journey:
- Beachy Beach Real Estate: Call 850-233-4351
- Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge): Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance
- Bay Tax: Email team@bay.tax | Phone 720-310-0084
Your belief in this podcast makes it possible for us to keep spreading joy and inspiration.Links and Resources:
- Ashley Feller Music and Productions:https://ashleyfeller.com/
- Seth Godin's Work on Marketing and Empathy:https://www.sethgodin.com/
- Books Mentioned: Codependent No More by Melody Beattie, Courage to Change (Al-Anon Daily Reader)
Stay Connected:Let’s keep growing together! Follow me on social mediahttps://myhappyasslife.com/, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio. Presented by ADF Media
20 JAN 2025 · Today I’m sharing how life’s challenges can become our greatest opportunities for growth. Inspired by Jim Rohn and Ryan Holiday, I talk about why personal development is the foundation of success and how obstacles aren’t here to stop us—they’re here to guide us.I open up about my own struggles with family hardship, and financial challenges, and how those difficult moments built the resilience and strength I rely on today. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I hope this episode reminds you that you are exactly where you need to be—and that your obstacle might just be your greatest gift.
Episode Highlights:
[01:45] The importance of personal development in achieving success.
[03:30] “Success is something you attract by the person you become.” – Jim Rohn
[05:00] How my childhood struggles shaped my resilience.
[07:15] Lessons from The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday.
[09:00] How to turn trials into triumph through growth and faith.
[10:30] A reminder to embrace challenges and keep growing.
Special Thanks:
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful sponsors who make this podcast possible:
Beachy Beach Real Estate: Call 850-233-4351
Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge): Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance
Bay Tax: Email team@bay.tax | Phone 720-310-0084
Your support allows me to keep spreading light and love through this podcast!
Links and Resources:Jim Rohn’s Work:https://www.jimrohn.com/
Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle Is the Way:https://ryanholiday.net/
Oura Ring:https://ouraring.com/
Stay Connected:Let’s continue growing together! Follow me on social mediahttps://myhappyasslife.com/, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio
Closing Thoughts:Whatever challenge you’re facing right now, remember: it’s not here to stop you—it’s here to shape you. Keep growing, keep believing, and keep moving forward.Be sweet, y’all! 💖Presented by ADF Media
13 JAN 2025 · In this episode, I’m beyond excited to sit down with the multi-talented Jason Hedden—Executive Director of Recruitment and Community Relations at Gulf Coast State College, theater professor turned comedy producer, and the creative mind behind Panama City Comedy. Jason shares how his journey from theater to comedy started by simply showing up at an open mic and evolved into a thriving comedy scene in Panama City.
We talk about the importance of stepping into new opportunities, balancing creativity with family life, and how building community has been at the heart of everything he does. From teaching to performing to producing, Jason reminds us that we’re all capable of blending our passions and creating something meaningful.
Episode Highlights:
[02:00] Jason’s career journey
[04:45] How a late-night open mic sparked a new creative path.
[07:30] Building community through comedy
[10:15] Recognizing and fostering potential in others.
[13:00] Balancing passion projects and family life
[17:20] The pressure of saying “yes” and learning to prioritize what matters.
[21:00] The influence of Gulf Coast State College.
[26:00] Theater training in producing successful comedy shows.
[31:15] Building creative spaces in unexpected places.
[36:00]Turning poetry into music and pushing past creative fears.
[42:00] Finding peace through unplugging.
[46:30] Jason’s advice for finding joy and purpose in life’s hard moments.
Special Thanks:A big thank you to our amazing sponsors who make this podcast possible:
Beachy Beach Real Estate: Call 850-233-4351
Kittie Stewart, Dream Team Lending (Powered by Edge): Email Kittie.Stewart@edgehomefinance
Bay Tax: Email team@bay.tax | Phone 720-310-0084
Links and Resources:
- Panama City Comedy:https://www.facebook.com/PanamaCityComedy
- Gulf Coast State College:https://www.gulfcoast.edu/
- Emerald Coast Theatre Company:https://www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org/
- Jason Hedden’s Work:https://www.instagram.com/jasonhedden
Stay Connected:Let’s keep growing and glowing together! Follow me on social mediahttps://myhappyasslife.com/, and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio so you never miss an episode.Be sweet, y’all! 💖 Presented By ADF Media
Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen aka...
show more
Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen aka Happy Ass shares original positive affirmations, stories, and tips to help you live a happier life. Be sweet and remember to follow the podcast to hear new episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Follow Karen's Blog at MyHappyAssLife.com
show less
Follow Karen's Blog at MyHappyAssLife.com
Information
| Author | Karen Smith |
| Organization | Karen Smith |
| Categories | Self-Improvement |
| Website | - |
| myhappyasslife@gmail.com |
Copyright 2025 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
