A Hopeful Practice for Stressful Times

A Hopeful Practice for Stressful Times

From Heart of the Story by Nadine Kenney Johnstone

April 19, 2026 · 22 min · Episode 244

About this episode

Nadine reflects on her practice of gathering good moments during stressful times and shares insights from her past.

244 Ten years ago, during a particularly stressful and uncertain time, Nadine started a practice of of gathering good moments as reminder notes she could read when anxious. She compiled them into an essay that she shares in this episode. Now, Nadine looks back on that time and reflects on all that has evolved (and stayed the same) in the decade since. Join Nadine, Molly Wizenberg, and Hallie Bateman in Spain from Oct 26-Nov 2 for Tiny True Stories and Sketches: A Micro-Memoir Retreat . Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just wanting to preserve impactful memories on the page, remember that every story—no matter how small—is worth capturing. About Nadine: Nadine Kenney Johnstone is an award-winning author, podcast host, and writing coach. After fifteen years as a writing professor, she founded WriteWELL workshops and retreats for women writers. She interviews today’s top female authors on her podcast, Heart of the Story . Her infertility memoir, Of This Much I'm Sure , was named book of the year by the Chicago Writer's Association. Her latest book, Come Home to Your Heart , is an essay collection and guided journal. She has been featured in Cosmo, Authority, MindBodyGreen…

People in this episode

Host: Nadine Kenney Johnstone

Guests: Molly Wizenberg, Hallie Bateman

Topics covered

  • stress management
  • writing practice
  • personal reflection
  • memoir
  • self-improvement

Keywords

  • stressful times
  • good moments
  • writing retreat
  • micro-memoir
  • personal stories

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: WriteWELL, Daring to Tell

Books & works: Of This Much I'm Sure, Come Home to Your Heart

Places: Spain

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