Why Italy Inspires Big Dreams (and How to Speak Yours Into Reality)

Joystarters with Rachel Baribeau: Nurturing Faith, Finding Purpose, and Pursuing Joyful Living

This week on the Joy Starters Podcast, we’re back in Italy—this time in the seaside town of Cefalù, Sicily. What began as a birthday trip gifted by my beloved Aunt Kay became a life-changing journey about dreams, openness, and the courage to notice the beauty (and people) right in front of us.

In this episode, I share:

• How my aunt gave me the gift of travel and sparked a lifetime of dreaming.

• The story of a simple blue Sicilian tile that became the centerpiece of my dream kitchen.

• Why saying your dreams out loud rewires your brain and brings them closer to reality.

• The importance of being a noticer—open to people, moments, and opportunities.

• How encounters in Sicily reminded me to shoot your shot and take risks in life, love, and faith.

Whether you’re dreaming of Italy, a new chapter in your life, or simply wanting to live with more joy and openness, this episode will inspire you to write your dreams down, speak them out loud, and notice the opportunities God places in your path.

🎧 Tune in and let’s dream big together.

🎉 It’s Our 9th Birthday! 🎉

For nine years, I’m Changing the Narrative has been speaking life, purpose, and hope into teams, campuses, and communities across the country. From the Minnesota Gophers to NFL locker rooms, this movement has sparked conversations that change lives. If ICTN has touched you or someone you love, would you consider making a gift today? Every dollar helps us keep showing up, year after year. 💛 DONATE: 👉🏽 https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/ctnfoundation

Links and Resources:

EARLY BIRD Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

NEVER MET A HAPPY BULLY:

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue—it impacts schools, workplaces, and communities. Never Met a Happy Bully is a powerful resource designed to help parents, educators, and leaders recognize the root causes of bullying, take action, and create environments where kindness thrives. This guide provides real strategies to empower kids and adults alike, fostering confidence, empathy, and accountability.

https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/9fb60f72a3

Are you ready to discover your passion, uncover your purpose, and live a life filled with 🌟 Ready to Find Your Purpose, Own Your Story, and Live with Bold Joy?

The Joystarters Blueprint is a 5-week program designed to help you get unstuck, rediscover what lights you up, and start living with intention.

Through live weekly sessions, downloadable life guides, personal growth challenges, and an active community, you’ll learn how to:✨ Let go of the emotional baggage that’s been weighing you down✨ Build healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships✨ Use your voice and story to make an impact✨ Wake up each day feeling clear, confident, and excited about life

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a change—this is it.

🎯 Don’t just dream about a better life—start building it.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/course

❤️ Super Patch Company: https://racheljoybaribeau.superpatch.com

👕 Our Joystarters Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyStarters

Mental Health Battle Plan: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/7288bda82f

The Mental Health Battle Plan is designed as a powerful resource to support you in taking control of your mental well-being. This guide is packed with practical steps, compassionate insights, and proven strategies that can help you build resilience, find peace, and restore joy in your life.

The Joystarters Club:

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/joystartersclub

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