Episode 42: How an Owl Locket Became Alyson Wagner’s Talisman for Creativity and Self-Expression

Martie McNabb welcomed listeners to another episode of Things That Matter, a series dedicated to extracting the personal histories embedded in the special objects that fill our lives. This time, her guest was Alyson Wagner, a multi-passionate creative she’d met at the Everything Conference in Minneapolis (Aug 2024) —a gathering that celebrates people who refuse … Read more

Minisode 32: Zhu Shen’s Journey of a Thousand Miles: Honoring Family Through Film, Food, and Gratitude

Zhu Shen grew up in China, where food has always been at the heart of family and tradition. Years later, living in the U.S., she found herself caring for her beloved husband, a Stanford-trained biotech founder and the family’s home chef, as he battled a tragic and ironic fight with cancer. One day, as Zhu … Read more

Episode 41: Risa Zenno’s Journey With Pens and Her Grandmother

As the clock ticked into a quiet afternoon, I, Martie McNabb, welcomed my guest, Risa Zenno, to “Things That Matter.” From the moment we connected—prompted by a chance encounter at the Everything Conference in Minneapolis—I sensed our conversation would reveal something special. When I invited Risa, pronounced Lisa, to share her story, she smiled and … Read more

Minisode 31: Memories, Loss, and Survival: Reflecting on 9/11 and Personal Objects with author Jamie Brickhouse

Jamie Brickhouse didn’t realize he was walking into a 9/11-themed storytelling event—he’d been preoccupied, already scheduled to perform elsewhere that day with a completely different story. But as the realization dawned, Jamie remembered he did, in fact, have a story connected to that date, rooted in both personal memory and collective tragedy. He began by … Read more

Episode 40: The Art and Energy of Symbols: A Conversation with artist Karin Edgett

Join us in this captivating episode where I, Martie McNabb, had the pleasure of welcoming the incredibly talented artist, Karin Edgett, to explore the intersection of art, energy, and the symbols that truly matter. Karin takes us on a journey through her fascinating transition from the world of advertising to embracing her true passion—art. Watch … Read more

Minisode 29:A Bookend that tells a Love Story with Philip Griffith

In this poignant video, Philip Griffith takes us on a journey that spans across continents and decades, revealing a personal story that intertwines fate, love, and cherished memorabilia. Philip begins by showcasing a unique water buffalo bookend he acquired during his trip to South Africa. He shares how this sculpture, though seemingly simple, holds profound … Read more

Episode 38: Gratitude Rocks – A pandemic keepsake and legacy with Ellerie Fuller

In the latest episode of “Things That Matter,” I invite you into a conversation with Ellerie Fuller, where the significance of everyday objects takes the spotlight. During their chat, Ellerie reveals the heartfelt narrative behind a simple, painted rock she received from her niece during the trying times of the pandemic. This rock, inscribed with … Read more

Minisode 28: View from My NYC Window: Jessica’s Touching Tale of Pandemic Connection

In the heart of New York City, as the world grappled with the onset of the pandemic, Jessica Lavoie, a seasoned model, found herself with an early understanding of the unfolding crisis. Her connection to overseas factories through her fit modeling work gave her an insider’s view as news slowly trickled in. Amidst the uncertainty, … Read more