Connecting through Stories and Journeys: A Conversation with Diane Wyzga
In this episode of PodQuest, I interview Diane Wyzga, a former Navy nurse, attorney, and a seasoned storyteller. In our conversation, we dive deep into her unique career and life journey, including Diane's experiences in the Navy, her transition into law, and her passion for storytelling.
We discuss the importance of understanding oneself and the power of stories in connecting with others. Diane elaborates on her work helping people find their voice, the value she sees in 'origin stories', and the meaningful impact a single conversation can have.
A unique aspect of the conversation is the ‘dual’ interview, where Diane asks almost as many questions of me as I do her, which fosters some fabulous explorations into the many ways you can live out your purpose.
The episode underscores the continuous and non-linear path of self-discovery that is Ikigai.
Video Version:
Highlights:
00:01 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:22 Getting to Know Diane Wyzga
01:41 Diane's Fascinating Art Pieces
04:10 Military Service Stories
04:55 Exploring the Path of Ikigai
05:25 David's Journey into the Marines
09:10 Diane's Journey into the Navy
13:16 The Power of Voice and Storytelling
23:27 The Concept of PodQuest
27:12 The Art of Crafting a Memorable Story
29:45 The Art of Asking Questions
30:17 The Power of Heartfelt Storytelling
31:13 The Role of Storytelling in Continuous Improvement
32:11 The Impact of Storytelling in Operations
33:22 The Power of Self-Realization in Process Improvement
34:30 The Role of Advocacy in Change Management
34:59 The Importance of Storytelling in Understanding Change
35:55 The Power of Self-Teaching
37:15 The Quest for Knowledge and Understanding
37:30 The Power of Serendipity in Storytelling
38:36 The Role of Storytelling in Personal Growth
39:34 The Power of Storytelling in Corporate Culture
40:05 The Importance of Recognizing One's Own Story
40:53 The Power of Listening in Storytelling
47:55 The Role of Storytelling in Personal Transformation
48:59 The Power of Storytelling in Inspiring Change
50:15 The Role of Storytelling in Community Building
52:40 The Power of Storytelling in Personal and Professional Development
Show Notes:
Diane Wyzga's professional journey spans various roles, including service as a US Navy nurse, corporate businesswoman, speaker, educator, lawyer, litigation consultant, podcaster, and storyteller.
Beyond her career, she is a seasoned adventurer, having backpacked across Europe, climbed the Canadian Rockies, mastered the art of flying a plane, and walked the Camino de Santiago—a 500-mile pilgrimage across Spain, among other exploits.
With a rich experience spanning three decades, Diane has dedicated herself to helping professionals bring their stories from private musings to the broader world—be it in the publishing realm, courtrooms, hospitals, board meetings, or the airwaves. Her stories have influenced juries, built markets, spread ideas, and catalyzed change.
In her current role, Diane focuses on empowering women to articulate the unspoken words within them, sharing the most significant narrative of their lives: their Origin Story.
Contact Info:
Quarter Moon Story Arts: https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net
Services offering: https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/
Arrange your free Story Start-up Session https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/hire-me/,
Opt In to her monthly NewsAudioLetter for bonus gift, valuable tips & techniques to enhance your story work https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/hire-me/subscribe/
Stories From Women Who Walk podcast: https://www.stories-from-women-who-walk.simplecast.com/episodes
Stay current with Diane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-f-wyzga-QMSA
Podquest: Episode 2