Bootstraps
Bootstraps
Podcast Description
Welcome to the podcast for navigating this wild, apocalyptic rollercoaster ride we're all on! And no, I'm not being dramatic — the actual definition of apocalypse means "to uncover." And whew, haven't we all been uncovering a lot lately? Old wounds, new anxieties…But here's the good news ~ the magic is in the mess.
This podcast was inspired by the “McDago” tribe of Irish-Italian, tough, tender, funny-as-hell FAMIGLIA who taught me: “Fall down? Fine. But come back swingin' - with fire, laughter, grace, and maybe a meatball in each hand!”
My Italian Nonna’s motto? “Pull up your bootstraps.” She lost her mother young, was raised by her Italian immigrant father (a Chicago chef), but still showed up swinging! She worked with passion til age 85, & lived to 97 with sass and incredible stamina. My own parents are also vibrantly bootstrappin’ through their 80’s…Proving strength & grit don't retire. Now I'm here to share that spirit with you! I'm a Mom, therapist, yoga instructor, sound healer, & musician (who dabbles in stand-up comedy).
The Italian chef gene skipped me, but I do serve up healing—spiced with humor, creativity, and a dash of sass. Welcome to the FAMIGLIA!
Pull up those bootstraps…
Let’s do this!
All episodes produced by Lisa Whittingham and Brad Dickert
Edited and mixed by Brad Dickert
We want to hear from YOU!!
Do you have an inspirational “Bootstraps” story you’d like to share? Or are you struggling with an issue / need advice / tools from Lisa?
Write to us at:
[email protected] or
DM Lisa on IG :@sita_whitt
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores themes of resilience, personal growth, and navigating life's challenges, with episodes delving into topics like overcoming adversity, the importance of humor in tough times, and spiritual growth. For example, a recent episode examines 'apocalyptic times' through an uplifting conversation with an intuitive guide.

Welcome to the podcast for navigating this wild, apocalyptic rollercoaster ride we’re all on! And no, I’m not being dramatic — the actual definition of apocalypse means “to uncover.” And whew, haven’t we all been uncovering a lot lately? Old wounds, new anxieties…But here’s the good news ~ the magic is in the mess.
This podcast was inspired by the “McDago” tribe of Irish-Italian, tough, tender, funny-as-hell FAMIGLIA who taught me: “Fall down? Fine. But come back swingin’ – with fire, laughter, grace, and maybe a meatball in each hand!”
My Italian Nonna’s motto? “Pull up your bootstraps.” She lost her mother young, was raised by her Italian immigrant father (a Chicago chef), but still showed up swinging! She worked with passion til age 85, & lived to 97 with sass and incredible stamina. My own parents are also vibrantly bootstrappin’ through their 80’s…Proving strength & grit don’t retire. Now I’m here to share that spirit with you! I’m a Mom, therapist, yoga instructor, sound healer, & musician (who dabbles in stand-up comedy).
The Italian chef gene skipped me, but I do serve up healing—spiced with humor, creativity, and a dash of sass. Welcome to the FAMIGLIA!
Pull up those bootstraps…
Let’s do this!
All episodes produced by Lisa Whittingham and Brad Dickert
Edited and mixed by Brad Dickert
We want to hear from YOU!!
Write to us at:
DM Lisa on IG: @sita_whitt
Tommy Holl, aka The Real Elf, opens up about surviving cancer, charming Barbara Corcoran (yes — she backed him on Shark Tank!), and choosing radical joy in the face of grief. (You’ll also get juicy behind-the-scenes secrets from Shark Tank!). So pull up your bootstraps – and maybe a Candy Cane martini! This one’s full of heart, hustle, and elf-ing courage.
🎄 Learn more about Tommy’s magical mission, order an Elfgram or book Tommy for an event at TheRealElf.com
🎄 Follow Tommy on socials @therealelftommy
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VOCAB OF THE DAY: e·bul·lience “the quality of being cheerful and full of energy; exuberance.”
AFFIRMATION OF THE DAY: “Joy is an act of resistance.”
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CAUSES WE CARE ABOUT:
***WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU***
Are you struggling with an issue / need advice / tools from Lisa? Or do you have an inspirational “Bootstraps” story you’d like to share (live/email/or voicemail)? Lisa is seeking guests with personal stories of resilience…in addition to musicians, artists, healers, comedians, activists – or anyone using their gifts and voice to help heal our planet.
Write to us at: [email protected]
DM Lisa on IG :@sita_whitt or leave a voicemail at: (872) 215-2084
BOOTSTRAPS is produced by Lisa Whittingham And Brad DIckert. Edited and Mixed by Brad DIckert.
DISCLAIMER:
The Bootstraps podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to
be a substitute for professional mental health treatment, therapy, diagnosis, or advice. The
content presented reflects the personal views and opinions of the host and/or guests and should
not be considered clinical or therapeutic guidance. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship between you and the Host, Lisa Whittingham, LCPC, or any of the guests featured on the show. If you are in need of mental health support, please consult a licensed professional in your area. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the host, guests, or any affiliated parties liable for any psychological, emotional, legal, or physical harm or damages that may arise from the
content or discussions shared on the show. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency, please contact emergency services or a mental health professional immediately.

Disclaimer
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