

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

Mar 2, 2021 • 22min
25 - Memories, The Corners of My Mind
25 - Memories, The Corners of My Mind
Today we’re diving into Jim Kwik’s book, Limitless. One of the key takeaways is that when you want to remember something, you need to have motivation behind it. Ask yourself why you want to remember it and figure out the best technique for you, whether it’s using a memory palace, chain linking, or pegged listing. Don’t forget to reward yourself along the way! And remember, unique experiences with strong associations will help with recall even in tough situations.
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2485
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/memory/types-memory
https://jimkwik.com/kwik-brain-002/
https://www.mind-expanding-techniques.net/memory-strategies/
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-trick-your-brain-to-remember-almost-anything/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Feb 23, 2021 • 22min
24 - Learn More, Work Less
24 - Learn More, Work Less
Are you interested in effective learning strategies? Today we’re talking about the book Learn Improve Master by Nick Velasquez, which talks about breaking up your learning into small, manageable chunks and testing yourself after each one. It’s important to vary your learning style, media, and environment to ensure that you can learn in any situation. And don’t forget to give yourself enough time to really learn something deeply. Oh, and one more thing - make sure you get enough sleep! That’s when your brain cleans up and organizes all the information you’ve learned. So if you want to be a better learner, follow these tips and get some good rest!
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2478
https://unlimitedmastery.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-DJEU9N1y4
https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/periodicals/dunlosky.pdf
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Feb 16, 2021 • 20min
23 - Young Brains
23 – Young Brains
Want to keep your brain young and healthy? Here are some tips: get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly. Learn new things at a good pace and practice them often. Avoid negative stereotypes and challenge yourself with complex brain activities like playing video games or learning a new language. It’s also important to have a purpose in life and stay connected with friends and groups. So go ahead and take care of your brain today and listen to the episode.
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2471
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inspire-rewire/201402/pruning-myelination-and-the-remodeling-adolescent-brain
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_keep_your_brain_young_even_as_you_grow_old
https://www.powerofpositivity.com/ways-to-keep-your-brain-young/
https://thriveworks.com/blog/keeping-the-brain-young-as-you-age/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/zimney-health-and-medical-news-you-can-use/keeping-your-brain-active-10-tips-for-improving-your-brain/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/7-ways-to-keep-your-memory-sharp-at-any-age
https://www.health.com/mind-body/17-ways-to-age-proof-your-brain
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Feb 9, 2021 • 17min
22 - Foverer-ish Young
22 - Foreverish Young Learn how to stay young and healthy as you age! In this episode, I share tips on staying active, eating well, and improving your posture. I draw on scientific studies and a book called “Younger Next Year” by Chris Crowley. You’ll discover the benefits of resistance training, gut health, and good sleep habits. Plus, get inspired to make small changes each week to improve your health.
Links:
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2461
https://www.youngernextyear.com/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091743517301470?via%3Dihub
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sarcopenia
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23190588/
https://www.iowaclinic.com/physical-therapy/how-to-combat-sarcopenia/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Feb 2, 2021 • 23min
21 - Once Upon a Time There was a Story
21- Once Upon a Time, There Was a Story
We’re talking about the eight steps to telling a great story. So, what does it take to captivate your audience and leave them wanting more? Well, it all starts with a hook - something that grabs their attention and draws them in. From there, you need to use descriptive words to build intrigue and keep the story short and relevant. Weave emotions and motivations into the events, and practice telling the story with different tones and gestures. And, of course, you need to consider your audience and focus on the journey, not just the destination. To find out more about how to craft a great story, listen to this episode!
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2449
https://www.scienceofpeople.com/captivate/
https://theartofcharm.com/art-of-personal-development/how-to-tell-a-great-story/
https://theartofcharm.com/podcast-episodes/785-how-to-tell-a-great-story-in-8-easy-steps/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jan 26, 2021 • 18min
20 - Have Great Conversations
20 -Have Great Conversations
In this episode, we dive into the science of succeeding with people. We cover everything from body language to making meaningful connections with others. The book by Vanessa Van Edwards called Captivate, shares tips on showing your best self from the moment you walk in the door, using exciting words and ideas, and finding mutual interests to build strong relationships. I challenge you to step up your everyday conversations and make them more exciting and memorable. Don’t miss out on these game-changing insights!
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2434
https://www.scienceofpeople.com/captivate/
https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnhall/2013/08/18/13-simple-ways-you-can-have-more-meaningful-conversations
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jan 19, 2021 • 16min
19 - Your Personal Elevator Speech
19 – Your Personal Elevator Speech
In this podcast episode, I talk about the importance of having an elevator pitch and how it can help you communicate effectively in various situations. I provide tips on how to create a concise pitch that showcases your professional personality, current and future employment, and unique qualities that benefit others. I also emphasize the importance of tone and perception in verbal delivery and challenge listeners to write their own elevator pitch. By following my tips and practicing with others, you can create a warm and competent pitch that connects with people and helps you achieve success.
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2420
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20170723-the-case-against-personal-brands
https://youtu.be/vVsXO9brK7M
https://www.kmco.com/careers-blog/why-you-need-an-elevator-speech-and-tips-to-create-one/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jan 12, 2021 • 18min
18 - Happiness is a Butterfly
18 - Happiness is a Butterfly
I am talking about the elusive concept of happiness. We’ll explore what factors contribute to happiness and suggest ways to increase it. We’ll also challenge you to identify one thing that makes you unhappy and decide whether to change it or change your perspective on it. And remember, sometimes people are happy for really interesting reasons, not the reasons you think they are. So let’s dive in and find out how to be happier!
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2408
https://youtu.be/2EiV4-ClcIs
https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/10-scientifically-proven-ways-to-be-incredibly-happy-wed.html
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2016/03/can-three-words-turn-anxiety-into-success/474909/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Jan 5, 2021 • 19min
17 - Stoicism, It's all Greek to Me
17 – Stoicism, It’s All Greek to Me
Today, we’re talking about how to build up your emotional immune system and how to appreciate the things around you. Remember, focus on the things you can change and let go of the things you can’t. Learn to reframe any negative thoughts and reflect on your day to see how well you did. Don’t let anything push your buttons and appreciate the people and things in your life.
Linkshttps://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2393
http://drwaynedyer.hayhouse.libsynpro.com/dr-wayne-w-dyer-pushing-buttons
https://dailystoic.com/joseph-dodson/
https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/minimizing-pain-maximizing-joy/
https://happyproject.in/stoic-person-happy/
https://www.williambirvine.com/
https://howtobeastoic.wordpress.com/massimo-on-stoicism/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Dec 29, 2020 • 20min
16 - Tech Tools to Track Habits and Have Fun
16 - Tech Tools to Track Habits and Have Fun
Today we’re talking about finding the right technology to help you achieve your goals and tasks. It’s important to choose reliable companies that keep their technology updated and safe. And of course, you want to pick something that will be around for the long haul so you can successfully accomplish your goals. So let’s dive into how to make sure you’re picking the right tech to help you succeed!
Links
https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2379
https://todoist.com
Things 3
Bounty Tasker
https://streaksapp.com/
https://streaksworkout.com/
https://habitminder.com/
https://www.productive.io/ah
https://www.stickk.com/
https://www.beeminder.com/
https://www.coach.me/
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-fitness-tracker/
https://www.mapmyfitness.com/
https://www.strava.com/
Nerd Fitness
https://habitica.com/static/home
https://www.vzfit.com/
https://fitxr.com/
HOLOFIT by Holodia
https://yes.fit/
https://www.myvirtualmission.com/
Jill’s Linkshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
Twitter startwithsmallsteps
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com


