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Start Your Day Positive

Len and Sara

Start Your Day Positive is the feel-good way to start your morning. Every weekday, we bring you uplifting news (yes, it exists!), trending stories worth talking about, real-life conversations, a little humor, and those fascinating “Today in History” moments that make you say, “I didn’t know that!”
And we always wrap up with a heartfelt prayer to center you, strengthen you, and remind you that you’re not walking into the day alone.

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  • 30 episodes
  • daily
  • Avg 27 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #404
    Friday · 28 min

    The 2:48 Slump & Pringles Built for Dipping.

    Dolly Parton left behind one final song.... but nobody is supposed to hear it until what would have been her 100th birthday. We’ll tell you about that, plus Pringles’ brand-new Dippers — and why your chips may finally survive the salsa bowl. Then 2:48 p.m.... a survey of 2,000 Americans found that’s when our energy tends to crash. But the bigger wake-up call is how many of us say we’re moving through life on autopilot. And Sara’s Go For It moment: why the quirky hobby or unusual thing on your résumé might actually help you stand out. Plus Today in History, and something to send you into the day on the right foot.

  • #403
    Thursday · 26 min

    A Storm Named Dolly & the Good News About Aging

    A tropical system in the Atlantic could soon become Tropical Storm Dolly.... just as the world is remembering Dolly Parton. We’ll tell you about that, plus Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu stepping away from competitive skating, and why she says she’ll be back. Then 45% of adults 65+ improved physically, cognitively or both — in a Yale study following more than 11,000 people for up to 12 years. The surprising part? A more positive view of aging was linked to better outcomes. And Sara’s Go For It moment, inspired by friends who are putting themselves out there even though it feels scary. Plus Today in History, and something to send you into the day on the right foot. The Monday Morning Boost lands at 6am every Monday — sign up at startyourdaypositive.com

  • #402
    Wednesday · 29 min

    Remembering Dolly Parton + Nate Bargatze Makes History

    Today’s episode is a special one as we remember Dolly Parton, the legendary entertainer whose music, movies, generosity, faith and kindness touched generations. Sara shares a personal celebration of Dolly’s life, along with a list of some of her favorite Dolly movies, documentaries and specials to watch as we remember her incredible legacy. Also today: Nate Bargatze makes comedy history, setting a Guinness World Record after selling more than 2 million tickets — while proving family-friendly comedy can be a huge success. If someone handed you an unexpected $1,000, what would you do with it? A new survey reveals how Americans say they’d spend the money. It’s Stump Day! We have a brand-new question for you! Plus, encouragement, laughs and a reminder to bring a little more light into the world ...something Dolly did so beautifully. Thanks to our sponsors... Northeast Factory Direct, Universal Windows Direct and Liberty Healthshare

  • #401
    Tuesday · 32 min

    The Pumpkin Spice Latte Almost Never Happened + America’s New Top Dog

    America has a surprising new favorite dog — and the Labrador has officially been bumped from the top spot! We’re sharing the new Top Five breeds, plus why political ads are about to be everywhere as we head toward the midterms. Also today: could a hatching baby Megalodon be the toy of Christmas 2026? Starbucks’ fall drinks are back with some new flavors, and we’re telling the fascinating story of how the Pumpkin Spice Latte almost never happened... and why there’s actually a pretty inspiring lesson behind it. Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare, Northeast Factory Direct, and The Great Geauga County Fair

  • #400
    Monday · 24 min

    A Surprising Way to Age Slower and Pizza Hut’s New Name

    Pizza Hut is becoming just “Hut” for football season... and we’ve got the fun reason why. Plus, an incredible archaeological discovery in Egypt may have a fascinating connection to the Book of Exodus, and a new study says movies, concerts and museums could actually help keep your body younger. And we’re sharing a simple CAP Nightcap: Celebrate, Appreciate, Prioritize. Thanks to our sponsors: Universal Windows Direct and Liberty Healthshare

  • #399
    August 21 · 28 min

    From Homelessness to Hope and The Snack Your Brain Loves

    Show Notes What would it look like if Harry and Meghan really spent more time back in the U.K.? We’re talking about their reported plans for an extended stay—and what it could mean for the royal family. Plus, Arby’s is bringing back a very different kind of nugget, Amazon wants your packages dropping from the sky in as little as 30 minutes, and we’re sharing one of the best snacks for your brain. And don’t miss Len’s conversation with a man who once experienced homelessness and shares how he found his way forward. Thanks to our sponsors Northeast Factory Direct, Universal Windows Direct and Sweetie's Candy!

  • #398
    August 20 · 31 min

    What TikTok Is Convincing Everyone to Buy & How to Score Free Chipotle

    Today we’re talking about ChatGPT’s new teen experience, a Chipotle BOGO, and the end of an era for anyone who remembers getting a stack of CDs for a penny from Columbia House. Sara also breaks down the huge business happening on TikTok Shop and what people are buying the most... some of the top sellers may surprise you. Plus, Len shares a simple tip for having better conversations, including how to avoid becoming the dreaded “topper.”

  • #397
    August 19 · 27 min

    The 84-Minute Friendship Rule & Pickle Everything

    How much could Tom Holland make from the latest Spider-Man movie? The number is pretty wild — especially when you hear what he earned for his first appearance as Spider-Man. Plus, new research says you may only need 5–10 minutes of movement to boost your mood and energy, and another study claims there’s a perfect amount of time for a friend hangout. (Spoiler: it’s oddly specific.) We’re also asking… is pickle flavor officially taking over everything? And it’s Stump Day! Think you know the answer? Head to StartYourDayPositive.com to enter Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare, Universal Windows Direct and Northeast Factory Direct

  • #396
    August 18 · 27 min

    Burger King’s Comeback & A Grandma-Approved Health Tip

    Burger King’s Comeback & A Grandma-Approved Health Tip Spider-Man is smashing another major box office record, Burger King is making a surprising comeback in the fast-food wars, and new research suggests short bursts of intense exercise may do more inside your body than you’d expect. Plus, Sara shares a simple way to get more fiber that Grandma would definitely approve of, and we’re talking about the upcoming Rise Up Women’s Conference happening this September. Thanks to our sponsors: Northeast Factory Direct and Liberty Healthshare!

  • #395
    August 17 · 29 min

    You’re Still Learning + Chicken & Waffles Are Coming

    Back-to-school prices, Chick-fil-A is rolling out chicken and waffles, and more of us are tracking our health than ever. Plus, a little Win the Day reminder: You’re still learning. Jump in... start your day with us today! Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare and Universal Windows Direct

  • #394
    August 14 · 28 min

    A Surprising New Stress Reliever and The Power of Prayer

    Today we're talking about why doodling might be the stress reliever we didn't know we needed... adult coloring books, make room! Plus, a Northeast Ohio favorite just earned some pretty impressive national bragging rights, and we're sharing a fascinating new survey about prayer, faith and answered prayers. Len also has a story about Lamar Jackson and his faith, and we lighten things up with what happened when he asked ChatGPT to tell him the truth. Thanks to our sponsors Northeast Factory Direct, Liberty Healthshare, and Sweeties Candy!

  • #393
    August 13 · 28 min

    What If You’re Missing Something You’d Love? + Goodbye to the Penny?

    Could the penny finally be going away... and the nickel getting a makeover? We break down what’s happening in Washington and what it could mean for the change in your pocket. Plus, an incredible archaeological discovery may have uncovered the very place where the Nicene Creed began nearly 1,700 years ago, and Gen Z is doing something nobody expected: helping bring movie theaters back. We’re also talking about our “Oyster Theory” — and why the things we think we don’t like (or can’t do!) might be exactly the things worth trying. For the ladies. You will love the Worship Beyond Walls NEOwomen's Conference-RISE UP on September 26. Get all of the details HERE AND… we’re giving away a FREE house cleaning from Squeaky Clean NEO! Thanks to our sponsors, Liberty Healthshare and Universal Windows Direct!

  • #392
    August 12 · 27 min

    Is Full-Fat Dairy Back? + What Your Dog Knows About You

    Is full-fat dairy actually healthier than we’ve been told? New research from the University of Toronto is challenging decades of nutrition advice about milk, cheese and dairy. Plus, Victor Wembanyama may no longer be the NBA’s tallest player after the Los Angeles Clippers signed 7-foot-5 Jamarion Sharp — and there’s another twist to this story. And can dogs really read human emotions? A new brain-scan study reveals just how much your dog may know about how you’re feeling. And, it’s Stump Day! Play along for your chance to win TWO DOZEN Daisy Cakes cake pops! Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare, Northeast Factory Direct, and Universal Windows Direct!

  • #391
    August 11 · 23 min

    Look Up This Week! + The Gen Z Word You Need to Know

    The night sky could be putting on one of the best shows of the summer! ✨ We’re talking about the Perseid meteor shower and why this year could be a great one for stargazing. Plus, the new Gen Z term for people who aren’t quite what they seem online, and the surprising mental load behind the daily question, “What’s for dinner?” We’re also sharing details on the upcoming Rise Up Women’s Conference and a simple way to encourage someone who might be having a grumpy day. Thanks to our sponsors Northeast Factory Direct and Liberty Healthshare

  • #390
    August 10 · 27 min

    Sometimes You Just Have to Laugh & A Surprising Watermelon Discovery

    Spider-Man is having one incredible summer — and the latest box office numbers are breaking records. Plus, an ancient Roman shipwreck untouched for more than 2,000 years has been discovered off the coast of Sicily, and the part of your watermelon you’ve probably been throwing away may actually be worth eating. And Sara shares a hilarious real-life moment that’s a good reminder that sometimes life doesn’t go as planned… and you just have to laugh. Thanks to our sponsors Universal Windows Direct, Liberty Healthshare, and Sweetie's Candy!

  • #389
    August 7 · 25 min

    McDonald’s Viral Coke-Dipping Trend + Coffee Health Benefits

    From the fast-food combo taking over social media to some surprisingly good news for black coffee drinkers, we’ve got plenty to talk about today! Plus, Disney is teaming up with TikTok creators in a whole new way, and we’re sharing a few simple ideas to squeeze every last bit of fun out of summer. Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare, Northeast Factory Direct and Sweetie's Candy

  • #388
    August 6 · 24 min

    The Perfect Sleep Temperature & A Wild New Adventure

    What's the right age for kids to start using screens? We discuss a new survey on technology and young children, the exciting new The Chosen adventure series with Bear Grylls, and the sleep temperature most Americans say helps them get their best rest. Plus, plenty of laughs and positive conversation along the way! Thanks to our sponsors Liberty Healthshare and Universal Windows Direct

  • #387
    August 5 · 24 min

    The Name Everyone is Talking About and A Laugh You'll Relate To

    Football season is almost here, and Buckeye fans have plenty to be excited about! Cleveland's new WNBA team finally has a name, and the story behind it is pretty cool. We also share one of Sara's hilarious voice-to-text fails (you've probably had one too!), talk about why McDonald's says its own deals became too confusing, and why sometimes keeping things simple is the smartest move. And don't forget—it's Stump Day! Make your guess now at startyourdaypositive.com. Thanks to our sponsors Northeast Factory Direct, Universal Windows Direct, and Liberty Healthshare

  • #386
    August 4 · 31 min

    The Biggest Movie Weekend Ever & A 70-Year Comeback

    Spider-Man: Brand New Day just made box office history, helping movie theaters enjoy their biggest weekend ever. We're also celebrating the return of professional women's baseball for the first time in more than 70 years, inspired by the league that made A League of Their Own famous. Plus, would you try Domino's new garlic ice cream? We share our thoughts, Sara has a new TV recommendation she's loving, and we wrap up with Today in History and a little encouragement to help you start your day positive. Thanks to our sponsors... The Cleveland Orchestra, and Northeast Factory Direct Sign up for the Morning Boosts newsletter HERE! Email: LenandSara@StartYourDayPositive.com Our Website: StartYourDayPositive.com HOSTS: Sara Carnes // @SaraCarnes4 Len Howswer // @LenHowser

  • #385
    August 3 · 28 min

    Losing Belly Fat Made Easy and Why is Spider-Man Spelled That Way?

    Spider-Man: Brand New Day is breaking records at the box office. Play along as Len quizzes Sara on what he calls super-easy Spidey trivia. Trim belly fat by exercising once a week! Sound too good to be true? We'll share with you what the latest research is telling us. Why YOU should be the first one to say hello, plus a look at this day in history; we'll get a little wisdom from Tom Brady, who is celebrating his birthday number 49. Thanks to today's podcast sponsors: Universal Windows Direct and The FEST!

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