When Barbara Tucker invited me to be a guest on her podcast, Dialogues with Creators, I thought I’d be talking about traveling in my motorhome, my quest to ride my bike in all fifty states, and writing my book Finding Joy in the West. But as the conversation unfolded, something unexpected happened: I heard my own story in a new way. I realized again that I was finding joy in the journey.

Barbara’s first question was about how I ended up in Georgia after growing up in the Midwest. After attending the same public school system from K-12, graduating from a well-respected Liberal Arts College close by, and earning a master’s degree from Indiana University, I dreamed of teaching in my hometown. A woman told me I would never get a job in the school system I attended. I believed her and subsequently followed my sister Sandi and my brother Tom to Georgia. Until recently, I hadn’t thought about how one person’s words totally changed the trajectory of my life. What a lesson for young people. “Don’t let anyone steal your dream.”

Barbara’s questions didn’t just ask where I’d been or where I was going. They touched on why I travel, what is so special about riding a bike, and how my childhood dreams of riding and writing had unfolded. In speaking those answers out loud, I realized on another level that I am living my dream. I am finding joy. And I am encouraging others to do the same.

I didn’t realize how far I have come until I listened to the interview. Being on the podcast wasn’t just a chance to tell my story. It reminded me that joy isn’t something we find once. It’s something we keep choosing. I have often written, “Keep finding your joy.” It’s something we need to remind ourselves of every day.

Thank you, Barbara, for asking questions that made me reflect on my journey. Your interview carried me back to where my dreams began.

When was the last time you told your story? I challenge you to share it with a friend. Your story might just lead you to finding joy in the journey too.

Thanks for being a part of this journey!

If you enjoyed reading this blog, I’d love your support in growing this community! Please share this with your friends, family, or anyone who might find it interesting. Your shares help me reach more people to help them find their joy.

Joy M. Walker