

Start with Small Steps
Jill from The Northwoods
Start With Small Steps is a practical, thoughtful podcast about making meaningful progress in everyday life—without overwhelm. Each episode breaks big ideas into small, manageable steps you can actually use, whether you’re working on habits, health, productivity, faith, or personal growth.
Instead of chasing quick fixes or perfect systems, this podcast focuses on steady change, reflection, and realistic action. You’ll hear clear explanations, relatable examples, and simple frameworks designed to help you think better, choose wisely, and keep moving forward—even when life feels complicated or slow.
Start With Small Steps is for anyone who wants growth that fits real life: small actions, honest reflection, and progress that lasts.
Instead of chasing quick fixes or perfect systems, this podcast focuses on steady change, reflection, and realistic action. You’ll hear clear explanations, relatable examples, and simple frameworks designed to help you think better, choose wisely, and keep moving forward—even when life feels complicated or slow.
Start With Small Steps is for anyone who wants growth that fits real life: small actions, honest reflection, and progress that lasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 5, 2022 • 19min
95 - Ending the Lies
95 – 95 - Ending the Lies
In this episode, I dive deep into the different types of lies we often tell ourselves. From outright lies to white lies and lies of omission, I explore how these untruths can damage our credibility and hinder our progress toward our goals. But don’t worry, I also offer some valuable advice on how to stop lying to ourselves. By being honest with ourselves, taking small steps, and accepting feedback from others, we can break free from this destructive cycle and live our best lives.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3243
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jun 28, 2022 • 18min
94 - The Lies We Tell Ourselves
94 - The Lies We Tell Ourselves
In this episode, I delve into the topic of lying to oneself. I share my personal experiences with this damaging habit and offer insights into common lies that we tell ourselves, like “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t do it.” It’s essential to recognize and confront these lies if we want to achieve our goals and live fulfilling lives. Join me as I explore how we can break free from self-deception and move forward with confidence.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3237
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jun 21, 2022 • 23min
93 - Make Everyone Happier at Work
93 - Make Everyone Happier at WorkThe book "People Styles at Work and Beyond" and opened my eyes to the importance of understanding different personality types in the workplace. The book identifies four main types - analytical, driver, amiable, and expressive - each with their own strengths and weaknesses. I learned that by observing and practicing how to adapt to different styles, we can improve our teamwork and workplace relationships.
One key takeaway from the book is that we should focus on maximizing our strengths rather than trying to fix our weaknesses. It also emphasizes the importance of manners, respect, and communication in the workplace.
I really believe that by being more flexible and understanding of others' styles, we can create a more positive and productive work environment. So let's all take steps towards better teamwork together!
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3231
https://hcleadershipessentials.com/blogs/leadership/the-people-styles-model-for-gaining-selfawareness-as-a-leader
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jun 14, 2022 • 19min
92 - Identify Your Work Style
92 - Identify Your Work Style
In this episode, I dive into the topic of work styles and how they impact relationships in the workplace. The “book People Styles at Work and Beyond" by Robert Bolton and Dorothy Grover Bolton categorizes work styles into four quadrants: analytical, driver, amiable, and expressive. It was so interesting to learn about each style and its characteristics. Understanding different work styles can be a game-changer when it comes to working effectively with others.
I challenge you to identify your work style and think about the pros and cons that come with it. Let's work together to create a more harmonious and productive workplace!
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3225
https://hcleadershipessentials.com/blogs/leadership/the-people-styles-model-for-gaining-selfawareness-as-a-leader
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jun 7, 2022 • 20min
91 - Thrive in the Seasons of Life
91 - Thrive in the Seasons of Life
Today, I talk about how life is like the changing of the seasons. Just like the weather, life is full of ups and downs, and we need to learn how to adapt to each season. I want to encourage you to embrace the lessons and opportunities of each season, whether it’s a time for learning, growth, reaping benefits, or reflection. It’s important to plan appropriately for each season and figure out what the next season might be. Remember, every season has a purpose, and we should always be learning and sharing our experiences with others. So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the season we’re in and prepare for what’s to come.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3213
https://www.arhantayoga.org/blog/the-four-seasons-of-life/
https://www.developgoodhabits.com/seasons-life/
https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/10-reasons-to-embrace-the-season-of-life-you-re-in.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn!_Turn!_Turn!\
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

May 31, 2022 • 21min
90 - Maximize Your Choices and Be Satisfied
90 - Maximize Your Choices and Be Satisfied
I discuss the concept of maximizers and satisficers, people who seek the best of everything versus those who are content with good enough. Dr. Barry Schwartz's book, The Paradox of Choice, explores this topic and finds that maximizers tend to be less happy and more anxious than satisficers. I share my own experiences and offer advice for both types of decision-makers. I also note that being a maximizer or satisficer can vary based on the situation and that learning to choose in a world full of unHave you ever heard of the concept of maximizers and satisficers? It's a fascinating topic that I've been exploring lately.
Whether you're a maximizer or a satisficer can vary based on the situation. Sometimes it's important to go all out and seek the absolute best option, while other times it's better to just be content with what's good enough.
But let's face it, making decisions in a world full of unlimited possibilities can be overwhelming. That's why I suggest finding a balance between the two and making decisions based on what is most important at the moment. Ultimately, I suggest finding a balance between the two and making decisions based on what is most important at the moment.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3208
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210329-do-maximisers-or-satisficers-make-better-decisions
https://medium.com/growth-habits-lab/how-to-make-better-decisions-are-you-a-satisficer-or-a-maximizer-5c789693b941
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/science-choice/201506/satisficing-vs-maximizing
https://freakonomics.com/podcast/are-you-a-maximizer-or-a-satisficer-nsq-ep-14/
https://gretchenrubin.com/2006/06/are_you_a_satis/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

May 24, 2022 • 20min
89 - Ben Franklin and His Life Improvement Plan
89 - Ben Franklin and His Life Improvement Plan
I recently came across Benjamin Franklin’s Book of Virtues and was intrigued by the system he developed to become a better person. He identified 13 virtues, one for each week, and worked on improving himself in each area. These virtues include things like temperance, order, and sincerity. The most amazing part about this system is that it’s not just about reflecting on these virtues, but actually taking action to improve ourselves. Franklin found that even attempting to attain these virtues made him a happier person. I think this system could be adapted to any personal virtues we want to work on and help us become better versions of ourselves.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3199
https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/01/health/13-virtues-wisdom-project/index.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OegmiOQNxVo
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

May 17, 2022 • 18min
88 - Be Happy Alone or In a Community
88 - Be Happy Alone or In a Community
In this episode, I explore some fascinating cultural concepts related to happiness. We’ll dive into the benefits of walking alone, taking time to relax without feeling the pressure to accomplish anything, and finding comfort in simply being lost in thought. But we won’t stop there! We’ll also discuss how building strong relationships with others can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment, as well as the importance of forgiveness and cooperative work. And with the pandemic still affecting our ability to connect with others, I’ll challenge you to think of ways to regain that sense of community. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let’s explore this together.
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3191
https://www.afar.com/magazine/unlocking-croatias-secret-to-slow-living
https://feeds.croatia.hr/en/fjaka-easy-to-catch-hard-to-explain
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/mamihlapinatapai
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9-Dn9rZ5XM
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/588651/happiness–found-in-translation-by-tim-lomas-phd-illustrated-by-annika-huett/9780525538080
https://hifisamurai.github.io/lexicography/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

May 10, 2022 • 28min
87 - Changes That Save Relationships
87 - Changes That Save Relationships
I talk about the book called People Can’t Drive You Crazy if You Don’t Give Them the Keys by Mike Bechtle. It is eye-opening and helpful when it comes to managing emotions and responding to relationships in a healthier way. The author emphasizes the importance of building trust, kindness, and integrity while also choosing the right battles. I’ve learned to value tiny steps and live in the present, which has helped me avoid dwelling on past hurts. By becoming masters of our emotions and thinking, we can improve our relationships and live happier lives.
http://www.mikebechtle.com/people-cant-drive-you-crazy-if-you-dont-give-them-the-keys/
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3182 Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

May 3, 2022 • 29min
86 - Take the Key from Drama
86 - Take the Key from Drama
I discuss the book People Can’t Drive You Crazy if You Don’t Give Them the Keys by Mike Bechtle. It helps people deal with drama in life in a more positive way. One of the things I’ve learned is to first ask myself if there’s anything I can do to change the situation or my attitude towards it. If not, I may have to limit my exposure to drama, but I don’t want to give up on relationships too easily. Instead, I try to be a positive influence in their lives and avoid expecting others to change. Communication and understanding are key, and I’ve learned to avoid gossiping about others. At the end of the day, I can only control myself and my own choices, and that’s what really matters.
http://www.mikebechtle.com/people-cant-drive-you-crazy-if-you-dont-give-them-the-keys/
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3179 Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com


