Introducing Martifacts: Martie McNabb’s Personal Stories Behind the Things She Keeps

For over three years, I’ve been hosting the Things That Matter podcast and YouTube channel—listening to countless people share stories about the objects that hold meaning in their lives. But until now, I realized I’d never really opened up about the things I keep, the things that matter to me personally. That’s why I started … Read more

Episode 51: Exploring Grief, Legacy, and Healing with Wy Woods Harris

In this episode of Things That Matter, host Martie McNabb sits down with nurse, grief facilitator, and author Wy Woods Harris for a deeply meaningful conversation about love, loss, and legacy. The two first connected during the early days of the pandemic through Let’s Reimagine, a space dedicated to open conversations around grief, death, and … Read more

Episode 50: The Power of Repair: Aging, Healing, and Things That Matter with Jeanette Leardi

As the afternoon sunlight streamed softly into my mom’s basement—a place filled with stories tucked into objects on every shelf—I sat ready for another episode of “Things That Matter.” Surrounding myself with the things we collect, inherit, and adore, I welcomed my guest, Jeanette Leardi, whose inspiring work in aging and intergenerational connections had first … Read more

Episode 49: Exploring Life’s Journey Through Library Cards with Ted Cragg

Martie McNabb settled into her favorite chair, the one that cradled her through countless conversations, and smiled as the camera started rolling. Across the video feed, Ted Cragg seemed right at home, surrounded by art and little mementos—a fitting backdrop for an episode of “Things That Matter.” “Welcome, Ted!” Martie greeted him. “I always love … Read more

Episode 48: A Ring’s Unbelievable Journey Out of Bergen-Belsen & Into Artist Judi Varnai Aronson’s Life

In these dark times, where some people are trying to erase history, telling our stories is an act of resistance. “Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of Things That Matter,” she began with her trademark warmth. “Today, I have the privilege of speaking with Judi Varnai Aronson—artist, entrepreneur, and keeper of a truly remarkable … Read more

Episode 47: Woven Generations: filmmaker Melissa Davey’s 100-Year-Old Rug That Connects Her Family

Martie McNabb glanced at her screen, a familiar spark of anticipation in her eyes. She loves hosting Things That Matter, a series devoted to the stories held by the objects in our homes aka our personal museums. Today’s guest is someone she’s admired for years: filmmaker Melissa Davey, a woman whose story embodies the very … Read more

Episode 46: Building a Legacy: author Blair Mostyn on Family, Fantasy, and Following Your Dreams

“Welcome to this episode of Things That Matter BL,” Martie began. “Today’s conversation is truly special. You reached out after attending a workshop I facilitated for Alexa Bigwarfe’s Women In Publishing community — well, technically, after watching the replay — and I was struck by your open embrace of the show and tell method I … Read more

Episode 45: From Childhood Collections to Curating History, Denny Daniel shares stories of Interesting Things

Martie McNabb straightened the stack of index cards on her lap, eyes sparkling with anticipation. “Welcome back to Things That Matter,” she greeted the invisible audience, her voice warm with genuine curiosity. “Today, we’re joined by Denny Daniel, the founder of the Museum of Interesting Things, a place where stories quite literally fill every corner.” … Read more

Episode 44: Skateboards, Stories, and Grief: Jen Allen’s Journey to Healing and Helping Others

Jen Allen sat down with Martie McNabb on this episode of Things That Matter to share a deeply personal story about loss and resilience. After unexpectedly losing her son Daniel to suicide, Jen found comfort in the objects he left behind—especially his skateboard(s), a tangible reminder of his passion and spirit. When Hurricane Helene hit … Read more

Episode 43: Generational Wisdom and Activism with Tabitha Zeigler

Tabitha sat across from Martie McNabb, the host of “Things That Matter,” prepared to open up about the small but meaningful keepsake in her hand. On the surface, the keychain looked ordinary—just a collection of trinkets bound together with a zip tie. But to Tabitha, every piece carried the weight of her journey: the travel … Read more