In this special episode, Ava honors what would have been her grandmother’s 114th birthday by sharing one of her published short stories, Time to Dance with the Leaves. Ava’s grandmother beautifully captures the changing seasons, the simple joys of nature, and the wonder of everyday moments. Through her words, Ava celebrates family, cherished memories, and the stories that connect generations.
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A memorable trip to Spain takes an unexpected turn at the airport, where a stranger’s kindness helps Ava and her husband navigate a frustrating check-in process. But what stays with Ava isn’t the airport kiosk; it’s the way some travelers choose to thank the man who volunteered his time to help. With her signature candor, Ava reflects on privilege, gratitude, and the importance of recognizing kindness with the respect it deserves.
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In honor of Jordan Sebastian, who passed away on October 19, 2017, Ava asks if we know Liz, Jordan’s mom. Liz’s strength, kindness, and determination have left a lasting impression on Ava, who reflects on the unimaginable pain of losing a child and the remarkable way Liz honors her son Jordan’s legacy through the Dominate the Day Foundation. Her story is a moving reminder to lead with compassion, appreciate the time we have with loved ones, and remember those who may be quietly hurting, especially on Mother’s Day. Please see the link in our Instagram bio to donate to Dominate the Day.
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Ava shares her very short list of men she might leave her husband for, from politicians and athletes to tennis legends and the conductor who brings Beethoven’s Ninth to life. But what begins as a playful look at celebrity crushes takes an unexpected turn as Ava dives into two major pet peeves: people who think knowing the right person means they can skip the line, and those who loudly broadcast their wealth, connections, and accomplishments. With plenty of humor and a healthy dose of side-eye, Ava explores attraction, privilege, and the behaviors that drive her crazy.
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Ava has always found joy in giving gifts, especially when she can find something that feels uniquely meant for the person receiving it. But when she’s asked to scale back on gifts for her husband’s grandchildren, she finds herself questioning whether spoiling the children she loves is really doing them a disservice. From personalized puzzles to travel souvenirs and educational toys, Ava reflects on generosity, gratitude, and the different roles parents, grandparents, and aunties play in a child’s life. Ultimately, it’s a candid look at what it means to show love through giving.
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A lifelong aversion to lettuce, condiments, and nearly every topping becomes the starting point for Ava’s affectionate reflection on her husband’s many quirks and the nearly 20 years they have spent learning to love each other’s differences. What begins as a humorous look at an unusually particular eater turns into something more tender as Ava considers marriage, compromise, the small rituals of everyday life, and the fear of losing someone you love. This heartfelt episode is a reminder that the quirks we tease each other about can become some of the very things we would miss most.
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A routine Pure Barre class takes on an entirely new meaning when Ava discovers that the surgeon performing her husband’s hernia surgery is none other than someone she sees in class every week. What follows is a hilarious reflection on unexpected connections, the small-world nature of the Pure Barre community, and the things you simply cannot un-think once you know them. With her signature wit and candor, Ava shares the story of her husband’s surgery, her post-op caretaker duties, and one particularly unforgettable thought she just cannot seem to shake.
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A breathtaking safari through Tanzania becomes the backdrop for an unexpected lesson in respect, cultural awareness, and responsible travel. Ava shares her unforgettable encounters with Africa’s wildlife and the warmth of its people, along with a memorable and frustrating encounter with fellow travelers who seemed determined to bring their Minnesota habits with them. With humor and plenty of disbelief, this episode is a reminder to appreciate the places we visit, respect the world around us, and remember that not every part of home belongs everywhere.
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A childhood memory of a misplaced bracelet becomes a lasting reflection on race, judgment, and the painful experiences that can stay with us long after childhood has passed. Ava revisits an incident in kindergarten that seemed confusing at the time, only to recognize its deeper significance through the lens of her experiences as a child of color. With honesty and vulnerability, she explores the lasting impact of being disbelieved, singled out, and treated differently and the responsibility adults have to ensure every child feels seen, heard, and trusted.
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A relationship that once seemed rooted in advocacy and a genuine desire to understand the experiences of people of color leaves Ava questioning the difference between authentic empathy and performative allyship. She reflects on the time, stories, and personal experiences she shared with someone who claimed to care deeply about marginalized communities, only to later discover that those representations had seemingly disappeared from her public life. This candid episode explores sincerity, allyship, and the disappointment that comes when actions no longer align with the values someone once professed.
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A night devoted to Ava’s greatest source of joy, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, takes an unexpected and frightening turn when her husband suddenly faints during a standing ovation. As panic gives way to relief, Ava reflects on the many moments that bring joy to her life, from family and music to travel and the simple pleasures of everyday life. This deeply personal episode is a poignant reminder that sometimes, in the most unexpected moments, we are reminded of what, and who, brings us the greatest joy.
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A routine membership renewal and an unfulfilled promise prompt Ava to reflect on integrity, trust, and what it truly means to support a local business. Drawing from her own experiences, she explores the gap between the values some businesses promote and the way they treat loyal customers behind the scenes. With honesty and thoughtful perspective, this episode is a reminder that kindness should be met with integrity and that actions will always speak louder than words
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A routine stop at Walgreens takes an unexpected turn when a moment of impatience gives way to an act of kindness. After a brief encounter with an elderly stranger, Ava finds herself reflecting on compassion, second chances, and the quiet ways we can show up for one another. This touching episode is a reminder that every person carries a story we cannot see and that sometimes the smallest gestures leave the greatest impact.
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A lifelong love of golf and dreams of one day playing St. Andrews lead Ava to reflect on the traditions, etiquette, and unwritten rules that make the game so unique. From the debate over "ready golf" to an unforgettable outfit on the course, she explores where common courtesy ends and personal expression begins. With humor, honesty, and a touch of playful skepticism, this episode considers whether some rules are worth keeping and why respect for the game still matters.
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A New Year's Day gathering on the Connecticut shoreline sparks an unforgettable encounter that leaves Ava reflecting on humility, authenticity, and the difference between confidence and self-importance. Through a series of memorable conversations, she explores how first impressions can reveal more than credentials ever could, and why genuine connection begins with listening rather than impressing. Told with wit, candor, and sharp observation, this episode is a lighthearted reminder that the most interesting people are often the ones who spend less time talking about themselves.
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What begins as a minor fender bender in the Hamptons turns into a candid reflection on accountability, personal responsibility, and the moments that reveal a person's true character. Ava shares the story of an unexpected car accident, the surprising response that followed, and the lasting impression it left behind. With her signature wit and honesty, this episode explores why owning our mistakes matters and how some apologies can leave more to be desired than the damage itself.
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A simple Saturday tradition of picking up sandwiches from a beloved neighborhood deli becomes a celebration of friendship, family, and the rituals that quietly shape our lives. Ava shares the story behind her weekly visits to Saldamarcos and reflects on how small traditions, from familiar lunch orders to time spent catching up with loved ones, create lasting connections and cherished memories. This heartwarming episode is a reminder that life's greatest joys are often found in the ordinary moments we choose to share.
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A trip to see Hamilton with her niece becomes something far more meaningful than a day on Broadway. Ava reflects on the assumptions we make about others, the emotional power of storytelling, and the quiet lesson she learned from a fellow theatergoer experiencing the musical for the very first time. This heartfelt episode is a reminder to lead with compassion, embrace joy without reservation, and remember that some of life's most meaningful moments come when we set judgment aside.
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In this humorous and observant episode of the Sweet Dreams Podcast, Ava shares a neighborhood mystery that has unfolded one dog walk at a time. What begins with a rusty filing cabinet marked “FREE” quickly turns into a reflection on human nature, curbside optimism, and the curious belief that someone, somewhere, might actually want your unwanted junk. Through the eyes of her daily walks with Jozi, Ava explores the small absurdities that make up everyday life, finding comedy in rusty patio furniture, missing chair seats, and the stories we tell ourselves about what others might value. Equal parts witty, relatable, and delightfully sarcastic, this episode will have listeners looking at their own neighborhoods a little differently.
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In this deeply personal episode of the Sweet Dreams Podcast, Ava shares the heartbreaking story of her father's final days and the questions that have never been answered. With honesty and grief, Ava reflects on the difference between legal obligation and moral responsibility, exploring the lasting pain that comes when those entrusted to help fail to do so. This episode is a powerful meditation on accountability, compassion, and the unanswered questions that can change a family forever.
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In this thought provoking episode of Sweet Dreams, Ava challenges the modern tendency to label ourselves as “Superwoman” for simply getting through life’s everyday struggles. Reflecting on the extraordinary courage and sacrifices of women who changed history, she explores the difference between resilience, accomplishment, and true heroism. It’s a candid look at perspective, humility, and how we measure our own achievements in a world that often encourages constant self celebration.
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