This episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast hosted by Dave Roberts, features guest Kris Munsch. Kris shares insights from his experiences as a teacher, builder, and author, discussing his new book "Living on the Razor’s Edge" and the origins of the Birdhouse Project—a hands-on, project-based approach to healing and self-discovery. Together, Dave and Kris reflect on the importance of embracing change, finding purpose, being comfortable in your own skin, and the value of learning from others. The episode emphasizes the power of community, self-reflection, and the ongoing journey of becoming one’s authentic self.

Kris’s Brief Bio 

Kris Munsch is a man of many categories he has in his life. He is, he has been a teacher and he is still a teacher. He's a builder, the biggest thing about Kris is that he's a repurposer. He likes to repurpose old buildings, old homes into something that is in his likeness that represents who he is at this particular moment. And he's repurposed his life in other areas , including his grief. Kris has also recently published his new book Living on the Razors Edge: 12 Intentional Tools which can be purchased on Amazon.

To find out more about Dave go to davidrobsersmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

This episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, hosted by Dave Roberts, features an in-depth conversation with Jaime Townzen, a Southern California-based writer and internationally recognized watercolor artist. Jamie shares her personal journey, including stepping away from her career to focus on family, coping with significant personal losses, and discovering the healing power of creative expression during the pandemic. She discusses how watercolor painting and writing became essential outlets for processing grief and stress, ultimately leading to her debut novel, "Absorbed." The conversation explores themes of creativity, the importance of embracing both light and shadow in life, the role of art and music in healing, and the value of perspective. Jaime also offers insights into her artistic process, the inspiration she draws from nature, and the importance of self-care and journaling. The episode concludes with Jamie encouraging listeners to support independent bookstores and libraries, and to prioritize creativity and balance in their own lives.

Jaime’s Bio and Contact Information

Jaime Townzen is a Southern California-based writer and professional artist whose watercolor paintings have earned international recognition. Her essays and microfiction have been published in Light magazine and Fairfield Scribes. Jaime’s debut novel, Absorbed was released in early 2025. When Jaime’s not in her studio, she can be found at the beach with her family and their dogs or listening to live music.

📚 Support Jamie:

• Find Jaime’s art and novel "Absorbed" at jaimetownzen.com, independent bookstores, and libraries.
• Follow Jaime on Instagram and Facebook: @jaimetownzen / @jaimegetscreative

To find out more about Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

This episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast features grief coach and entrepreneur Mehr Syed, who shares her personal journey of loss, transformation, and healing after the sudden passing of her husband. Mehr discusses how grief completely changed her life, leading her to support others navigating loss with compassion and honesty. The conversation explores the misunderstood nature of grief, the importance of honoring individual grief journeys, and the ongoing connection with loved ones after death. Mehr and host Dave Roberts discuss cultural perspectives on grief, especially within Pakistani and Islamic traditions, and emphasize the value of community, safe spaces, and self-kindness in the healing process. The episode concludes with practical advice for those grieving: prioritize self-care, allow yourself to heal at your own pace, and seek support through community and connection.

Mehr’s Bio and Contact Information

Mehr Syed is a grief coach, speaker, and entrepreneur who supports individuals navigating loss with compassion and honesty. After experiencing the profound impact of grief firsthand, she is on the path to hold space for others to process pain, find meaning, and reconnect with life. Her work goes beyond coping, she helps people honor their grief while guiding them toward rediscovering joy, resilience, and purpose. With a grounded, heart-centered approach, Mehr creates a safe space for transformation, where grief becomes not the end of a story, but the beginning of a new chapter. With years of experience in communications and marketing, and specialized training in Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, and Wellness, Mehr brings a grounded, holistic approach to grief support. She creates spaces, both online and in person, where grief is not rushed, fixed, or minimized, but gently understood and integrated.

Mehr offers 1:1 grief coaching, a guided coaching program, and online communities including The Grief Circle on Facebook. She hosts Grief Talk on YouTube, where she leads open, honest conversations about love, loss, and healing.

Whether your grief is fresh or decades old, you don’t have to carry it alone.

Connect at mehrgriefcoach@gmail.com or visit griefcoachingwithmehr.com.

Social Media Handles:

Instagram: @griefcoach_mehr

Facebook: mehr.syed

YouTube: @Grief-Talk

To connect with Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com