Podcast cover

The Purple Stars Podcast

Sarah Hoelzl
63 episodes   Last Updated: Apr 23, 25

Welcome to the Purple Stars Podcast, the place where every life story and paw print has the power to touch your heart and inspire meaningful change. I'm your host, Sarah Hoelzl – a high-performance coach, company founder, author, and animal lover.

We bring together guests from diverse backgrounds who all share an unwavering love for our furry companions. From passionate entrepreneurs and visionary artists to veterinarians and everyday heroes, we explore their captivating life stories and the things they’ve learned from their cherished pets, guiding us towards a more fulfilling life.

Together, we’ll uncover profound life lessons from both humans and pets, exploring emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual themes.

Whether you're eager to grow personally and uncover what our pets can teach us, or you’re captivated by the bond between animals and humans – this is where you belong.

Mark your calendars and join us every Wednesday for interviews and solo episodes that will touch your heart and inspire transformation.

Episodes

How often has your smile made a stranger’s day? I guarantee you – far more more times than you probably realize.Recently, I was on the receiving end, and it inspired me to talk about kindness.The quiet kind.The everyday kind.The kind that doesn’t need applause to matter.The kind we’re all craving a little more of these days. Join me to discover:1. How a Stranger Completely Changed My Day 2. Why Kindness Doesn’t Have to be Loud to be Powerful 3. Gentle Ways to Offer Compassion to Others and Yourself 4. A Reminder That Connection Still Exists, Even in Hurried, Fractured TimesThis episode is perfect for you if:· You’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the world lately· You need a gentle pause to reconnect with yourself· You believe in the healing power of human connection· You’re looking for small but powerful ways to practice kindness todayAlso featuring: My awesome dog Felix.Wherever this finds you—on a crowded street, at your kitchen table, or walking your beloved doggy—I hope you carry this with you: the reminder that even in a world that feels too fast, too loud, or too heavy, you still have the power to pause, to connect, and to choose kindness. Not just for others, but for yourself, too. Because those small moments, those gentle acts? They matter. They soften the world. And they remind us that we’re not alone.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love,Sarah What I discussed:00:30 A Walk with Felix in a Rushing World 01:54 A Stranger’s Smile That Changed My Day 03:46 The Quiet Ripple of Everyday KindnessSubscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PurpleStarsWorldConnect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.world https://www.instagram.com/purplestars.worldInstagram: @sarah.hoelzl https://www.instagram.com/sarah.hoelzlYoutube: @PurpleStarsWorld https://www.youtube.com/@PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are suffering from any mental health or medical conditions, please seek assistance from a qualified health professional.
What would you be willing to do to follow your true calling?Today’s guest, Dr. Cliff Redford, is a veterinarian and animal advocate who has dedicated his life to rescuing animals across the globe. From performing surgery on a crocodile in Jamaica to saving pets in war-torn Ukraine, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.Join us to discover:1. The Unforgettable Story of Rescuing a Dog During India’s Diwali Festival2. What It’s Like to Perform Surgery in War Zones and Disaster Areas3. The Deep Bond Between Humans and Animals, Even in The Toughest TimesThis episode is perfect for you if:· You’re passionate about animal welfare and global rescue efforts· You need a little reminder that you’re capable of making a difference· You love heartwarming and inspiring stories that restore faith in humanityNo act of kindness is too small. Whether it's rescuing animals in a conflict zone or simply helping a neighbor, we all have the power to make a difference.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!Sending lots of love,SarahWhat we discussed:04:27 The Journey to Becoming a Worldwide Volunteer Vet09:17 Rescuing a Dog During India’s Festival of Lights15:19 How Volunteering in Panama Saved Sea Turtles21:04 How His Volunteer Missions are Financed23:44 Providing Vet Care in Remote, Freezing Arctic Conditions29:48 Navigating Limited Resources in Extreme Conditions42:27 Saving Animals in Ukraine: A Warzone Experience48:29 Coping With Trauma and Emotional Burnout52:31 Life Lessons From a Vet’s Global Rescue MissionsConnect with Dr. Cliff Redford:Instagram: @drcliffworldwidevetWorldwide Vet Trailer https://youtu.be/Xi-5Bss02r4Podcast Vet Life With Dr. CliffWebsite: https://drcliff.ca/cliff-redford/Connect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.worldInstagram: @sarah.hoelzlYoutube: @PurpleStarsWorldThe Purple Stars Podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are suffering from any mental health or medical conditions, please seek assistance from a qualified health professional.
Are you wondering if all your hard work will actually pay off? If you're pouring your heart into your growth, your career, your healing—and still waiting for the results— this episode is YOUR reminder: the progress you’re making is far greater than you realize. Keep going—it's all adding up.Join me as I reveal a transformative practice, I’ve been using for nearly two decades, and how my dad taught me the invaluable lesson of celebrating the quiet victories—the ones that truly shape who we’re becoming. Join me to discover:1.The Story Behind The “I Am Winning” List and Why You Need It2.Why Small, Quiet Wins Are the Foundation of Big Breakthroughs3. How to Reconnect with Your Inner Child and Dog-Like Joy in Daily Wins4.Simple Steps to Start Your Own List Today and Grow Your ConfidenceThis episode is perfect for you if:● You’re feeling discouraged while waiting for results● You struggle to recognize or celebrate your own progress● You want to build self-confidence and emotional resilience● You’re craving a simple, soulful practice to ground your growth Special Mention:Felix gets a heartfelt shout-out in this episode 🐶✨(You’ll want to hear how we celebrate his personal little wins.) Hold this close to your heart: You’re doing better than you think. You are already growing in ways you might not yet see. It’s not a matter of if—just when. We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love,SarahWhat I discussed: 00:00: Is All Your Hard Work Truly Going to Pay Off?01:08 The ‘I Am Winning’ List: A Practice That Changes Lives04:33 Progress Isn’t Always Loud or Obvious While It’s Happening 07:03 Let’s Celebrate Ourselves Like We Do Kids and Dogs 12:17 Why Small Wins Make a Big Difference Connect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, ort treatment. Users should not disregard or delaying obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
Have you ever felt like life was happening to you rather than for you?Molly Williams—host of the award-winning podcast Molly’s Morning Meditation, founder of the Wild Minds app, and a manifestation mentor. Through her journey of illness, loss, and self-discovery, Molly has learned to co-create her reality, embracing trust and surrender in the process. Her story is not just about manifestation—it’s about resilience, authenticity, and the magic of believing in yourself.Join us to discover:1. The Unique Styles of Manifestation and How to Find Yours.2. How Molly Transformed Illness into Empowerment and Found Her True Calling.3. The Role of Trust and Surrender in Co-Creating Your Reality.This episode is perfect for you if:· You’re curious about manifestation but unsure where to start.· You want to invite more trust into your life.· You love deep, heart-centered conversations about personal growth.This episode will inspire you to let go of expectations, trust the journey, and manifest a life filled with joy and meaning.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode @purplestars.world.Sending love,SarahWhat we discussed:Please note: we talk about suicide. If you want to avoid this content, skip from 12:51 to 13:01.03:27 Molly's Journey: From Illness to Empowerment08:23 The Power of Authenticity in Healing11:09 Understanding Manifestation12:51 Trigger Warning: Mental Health & Suicidal Thoughts18:34 Unique Manifestation Styles & Finding Yours39:23 Your Question, Our Answer: Balance the Desire to Manifest My Biggest Goals With the Need to Stay Present52:24 Lessons from Loss and GriefConnect with Molly Williams:Instagram: @mollylovesmorningsWebsite: https://mollylovesmornings.com/Wild Minds AppSubstack – Manifestation PortalConnect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.worldInstagram: @sarah.hoelzlYoutube: @PurpleStarsWorldThe Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
How do you move forward when the past feels too heavy to carry? Today, we sit down with Ryan Woodruff, CEO of Clear Path for Veterans, a man who knows what it’s like to struggle in the aftermath of service. As a Marine who served in Iraq, Ryan faced loss, isolation, and the challenge of finding purpose again. But it was a dog—Harley—who showed him that love, connection, and resilience can change a life. This episode is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always a path back to more light.Join us to discover:1. How Ryan's Military Experience Shaped His Purpose Today2. The Challenges Veterans Face When Reintegrating into Society3. The Transformative Power of Canine Companions in Mental Health4. The Incredible Work of Clear Path for Veterans and How to Turn Trauma into Purpose This episode is perfect for you if:· You’ve faced loss and are searching for hope· You're seeking inspiration on overcoming adversity· You want to learn how small steps create lasting changeRyan reminds us that we are never alone and that there is always a hand—or a paw—ready to help us stand again. If this conversation touched your heart, share it with someone who needs it. And remember: healing is a journey, and you never have to walk it alone.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode @purplestars.world.Sending lots of love,Sarah What we discussed:05:44 The Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life 12:17 The Role of Community in Healing19:58 Morning Routines & Finding Structure After Service 31:55 Clear Path for Veterans: Mission & impact 37:00 Meet Harley: The Dog That Changed Ryan’s Life 40:04 Turning Grief Into Purpose & Service 50:34 Your Question, Our Answer: I've been through so much in my life, and I'm terrified to face my past. What would you suggest? Connect with Ryan Woodruff:Website: https://www.clearpath4vets.comFacebook: ClearPathForVeteransInstagram: @clearpath4vetsYouTube: @ClearPath4Vets Connect with us:Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
WOW! Time is flying. I can’t believe it’s been a year since we adopted our dog Felix. What better time than his first gotcha day and pupaversary to dedicate an episode to him? I’m sharing the beautiful, emotional, and unforgettable experience of how he became part of our family. From fostering to following endless dog rescue accounts to the moment I held him for the first time, this episode is all about love, connection, and the magic of finding your soul-dog. Join me to hear: • The emotional journey of searching for the right dog and why fostering wasn’t for me. • The moment I knew Felix was the one and the rush of getting everything ready overnight. • How adopting Felix has changed my life in ways I never expected. This episode is for you if: • You’re thinking about adopting a dog but feel unsure if you’re ready. • You love heartwarming adoption stories and want to celebrate the joy of pet companionship. • You adore dogs and just want to hear a feel-good story! • Honestly, I think this is episode is for everyone – who doesn’t love to hear a love story between humans and pups? So grab a cozy drink, and let’s celebrate the gift animals give us! Trust me, this one will make your heart melt. I’d love to hear your personal love stories, head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share them with us! Sending lots of love, Sarah Connect with us: Website: https://purple-stars.us Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
What if a single question could change the way you see your fears and unlock new possibilities?In this episode, I’m sharing the profound question I’ll be asking every guest I interview in 2025—an invitation to embrace your fears, rise above them, and step boldly into the life you truly desire. This question has already sparked incredible conversations, and now, I want to bring it to you.To help you explore it more deeply, I’m also guiding you through a simple yet powerful 8-minute practice—designed to connect you with your heart’s deepest wisdom, move beyond hesitation, and take inspired action starting today.Join me to discover: 1. The one question that can change how you approach the rest of 2025.2. My courage of wings practice.3. How to connect with your heart’s wisdom in just 8 minutes.This episode is perfect for you if:You’re feeling stuck and need a new perspective on your fears.You love heart-centered questions that spark reflection.You’re looking for a simple, guided practice to gain clarity.You want to start embracing your dreams with more confidence.I’m so excited for you to connect with your heart’s deepest desires and take inspired action.I would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love,Sarah Download your FREE guided Courage of Wings practice:https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/9rsh8jb5rpsom3d34tcon/ANjZ9tk5hUybNnTUtKHgXho?rlkey=4yx6kad5jcjtv8zvbjl3csd9d&dl=0 Connect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld
What if the key to healing is already within you? 🌿In this episode, we sit down with Amy Fitzjames, founder of Calm + Well and a practitioner of the ancient Japanese acupressure art, Jin Shin Jyutsu. Amy shares her journey from facing health challenges to discovering holistic healing—and how she now helps others reconnect with their bodies. Join us for an inspiring conversation on deep healing, self-awareness, and the magic of tuning into our bodies.We’ll explore:1. What Jin Shin Jyutsu Is & How It Can Transform Your Health2. What Your Physical Symptoms Reveal About Emotional Well-Being 3. Practical Self-Care Techniques for Any Busy Daily Life4. How Healing Energy Impacts Not Just Us, but Also Our PetsThis episode is perfect for you if:· You struggle with stress, anxiety, or chronic health issues· You’re curious about holistic healing and energy work· You love animals and want to explore energy healing with themOur bodies hold stories and whisper truths we need to hear. When we listen, we unlock healing and incredible self-discovery. I hope this conversation encourages you to know that, no matter where you are on your journey, transformation is always possible.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Sending lots of love,Sarah What we discussed: 00:00 Coming Up with Amy Fitzjames 03:00 Amy’s Journey to Holistic Healing 08:10 The Moment Everything Shifted for Her 10:14 What is Jin Shin Jyutsu? 15:16 Overcoming Skepticism and Acceptance of Energy Healing 20:25 Self-Care Meditation & Listening to the Body 28:04 How to Start Your Own Self-Care Practice 33:04 Do Pets Benefit from Energy Healing?37:01 A Simple Self-Care Exercise to Try at Home 39:35 Your Question, Our Answer: “Finding Time for Yourself Amidst All Responsibilities” Connect with Amy Fitzjames:Her Instagram @campluswell Her Podcast Our Wellness Diary with Amy Fitzjames Connect with us:Instagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
Have you ever wondered if you have the strength to change your life? This episode is for you. I sit down with celebrated author and content creator Anna Kloots. She opens up about her journey from feeling lost in a life dictated by others to reclaiming her magic, finding independence, and building the life of her dreams in Paris. We talk about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to start over.Join us to discover:1. How to recognize when you've lost yourself in a relationship2. The fear and freedom of starting over from scratch3. Why the worst moments in life can be the beginning of something beautiful4. Why it is never too late to reclaim your own magicThis episode is perfect for you if:· You feel stuck in a life that doesn’t feel like your own· You’ve ever compromised your happiness for someone else· You want to believe in your own magic againAnna’s story is a powerful reminder that even when everything falls apart, you still have yourself—and that is enough to start over. So, what if, for the first time, you trusted yourself the way you've trusted others? Maybe this is the moment to find out.We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments!Sending lots of love,Sarah What we discussed:04:42 When Love Makes You Disappear Little by Little07:31 Losing Everything— but Finally Finding Herself20:08 The Patterns that Keep Us Stuck27:40 The Tiny Compromises that Slowly Erase You39:43 What My Own Magic Truly Means53:00 Why Sharing your Story Can Change Someone Else’s01:15:06 Your Question, Our Answer: “How Do I Know If I’m in the Right Relationship?”01:20:00 Fall in Love with MietteConnect with Anna Kloots: Instagram @annakloots Her dog @leparisienpoodle Book "My Own Magic" Her Paris Guide Connect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.world Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
The questions you ask yourself every day shape your reality more than you realize. What if a simple shift in your questions could unlock new opportunities, boost your confidence, and help you break free from doubt? In this solo episode, I’ll share how changing the way you ask questions can propel you forward, spark growth, and open doors you never imagined.Join me to discover:1. Why questions shape your reality2. How questions can transform your self-esteem and confidence.3. A four-step method to rewrite your inner dialogue.4. How to tap into power of questions.This episode is perfect for you if:· You often feel stuck in doubt and fear.· You want a simple technique to improve your mindset.· You’re looking for tools to make better decisions with confidence.· You often ask yourself “What if I am not good enough”.I hope this episode inspires you to become more intentional with the questions you ask yourself—because the right question at the right time can change everything!We would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast episode. Head over to @purplestars.world on Instagram and share the valuable insights you gained from it. Can't wait to read your comments! Sending lots of love,Sarah What I discussed:00:00 Coming up: Why Questions Shape Your Life 00:31 The Transformative Power of Questions 05:08 Two Types of Questions: Loss vs. Gain-Based 09:10 The RF-RF Method: Four Key Steps 13:56 The Power of Reframing your Questions 18:30 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with PositivityConnect with us:Website: https://purple-stars.usInstagram: @purplestars.world Instagram: @sarah.hoelzl Youtube: @PurpleStarsWorld The Purple Stars Podcast and content posted by Sarah Hoelzl is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.