What is the difference between having things and simply appreciating them—and how has that distinction shaped the way we see the world? Inspired by a quote from Albert Hubbard and memories of flipping through Town & Country magazines with my mother, I take a sentimental and humorous journey through antique stores, high-end jewelry I’ll never own, and lavish homes I’ll never live in. But rather than feel envy, I’ve learned to let these moments of beauty and fantasy awaken a deeper sense of gratitude for what is in my life. Join me as I explore how appreciating what we can’t have might just teach us how to love what we do—and how beauty, even in the pages of a glossy magazine, can remind us to say a simple but powerful “thank you.”

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

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In this episode of Now That You Ask, I reflect on a curious bit of wisdom a friend once shared: “To get clear, you need to get as still and stupid as a stone.” At first, I bristled—me, stupid? But the more I sat with it, the more I realized how hard it actually is to be still, let alone silent. I invite you to join me as I explore what it means to embrace stillness—not just as an act, but as a state of being. We’ll talk about rocks (yes, literal stones), the quiet wisdom they may hold, and what they’ve taught me about letting go, slowing down, and opening up to guidance in the most unexpected ways. Maybe, just maybe, still and stupid isn’t such a bad thing after all.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

Sometimes the feeling of immense joy and gratitude can be a little like getting drunk. From serendipitous events to the heartwarming experience of attending a dear friend's granddaughter's wedding, recognizing and appreciating the beauty and kindness around us is not only important but intoxicating. Embracing gratitude and humor can also transform our perspective and enhance our experiences and I recommend you try "getting drunk" on this experience sometime.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

This week I'm thinking about the relationship between fear and excitement. Listen in as I talk about how combining these emotions has taken me to unexpected yet fulfilling places. Through my experiences overcoming initial career struggles and facing deep-seated fears during a ropes course, I advocate for embracing both fear and excitement to lead an enriched life.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

In this episode, I share my reflections on following the things I love, from the poetry of Rumi to my fascination with flowers, trees, art, and even vampires. Drawing connections between these diverse interests, I explore how each has uniquely enriched my life, grounding me, inspiring me, and offering new perspectives. I think it's important to heed these unexpected pulls and I invite you to appreciate how such passions can make life more meaningful and interesting.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

Recently some respiratory issues disrupted my podcasting routine. This illness of all things lead me to a simple but powerful affirmation, 'I am enough,' and inspired me to overcome my anxiety and trust in my own abilities. Then through a dream, I found joy and motivation, transforming a stressful situation into a fulfilling creative process. And now I continue to reflect on the significance of self-acceptance and how 'I am enough' will continue to support my personal growth and self-belief. All because of some sniffles.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

Join me as I explore the potent influence of words and the emotional journey of a writer. I have such deep admiration for words and how they inspire and fuel my creativity. And while they do inspire me, they also bring about some specific challenges like writer's block and feelings of doubt and these obstacles impact my creative process. But thankfully, I have my strategies for overcoming these hurdles, reconnecting with my creative spirit, and finding joy in writing.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

From my childhood escapes through books, my varied career paths, and the connections I've forged around the world, my experiences have really shaped the person I am today. Listen in as I expound on how my upbringing in the South has influenced me, the lessons I've learned from living in the Middle East, and the importance of embracing life’s unpredictability. As I look forward to the future, I am making the most of my time and living with abandon.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com