BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Beating the Odds

BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Beating the Odds

Author: Jane & Laurie September 11, 2025 Duration: 17:34
Suleika Jaouad on surviving and thriving - Jane’s very special guest is author, advocate and motivational speaker, Suleika Jaouad. Diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia at age 22, Suleika was given a 35% chance of survival. Rather than simply giving up, she went on to chronicle her journey, writing the New York Times column, Life, Interrupted which was made into a video series that won an Emmy Award! And her memoir, Between Two Kingdoms, was also a New York Times best seller. Her fight against cancer is also featured in a 2023 Netflix documentary, American Symphony, about a year in her life with her husband, the Grammy, Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning musician, Jon Batiste. Now she is writing new chapters of her story through her latest work, The Book of Alchemy. Suleika is also partnering with Blood Cancer United, formerly known as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, on their expanded mission to provide information and guidance for patients and caregivers for all 100+ blood cancers. On this segment, Jane and Suleika talk about what gets her through her good days, bad days, and very bad days. She also provides advice for building community and fostering connections, starting with how journaling gives her calm and purpose. Furthermore, she shares her tips, tools and favorite mantra that will motivate and encourage all of us to be just a little Better Than Before, no matter what obstacles we face in life.

For anyone who's ever faced a turning point-a health diagnosis, a personal loss, or simply the feeling that something needs to change-Jane Wilkens Michael Better Than Before offers a grounded and compassionate voice. Drawing from her long career writing nationally syndicated columns on beauty, health, and fitness, Jane translates her wisdom into conversation, moving from the page to the airwaves. This isn't about drastic overhauls or unattainable ideals. Instead, each episode feels like a thoughtful discussion focused on practical, manageable steps. You'll hear Jane guide her audience through concepts of self-care that are both gentle and effective, focusing on how to truly relax a busy mind, replenish depleted energy, and rejuvenate a weary spirit. The core philosophy, building a life that is Better Than Before, is woven into every topic, whether it's navigating fitness after an injury, finding quiet moments in a noisy world, or redefining personal wellness on your own terms. The podcast serves as an audio companion for that very personal journey, emphasizing that progress is built from simple, consistent actions. Tune in for a blend of personal insight, actionable advice, and the steady encouragement that has already resonated with millions of readers, now offered in a more intimate, spoken format.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Jane Wilkens Michael Better Than Before
Podcast Episodes
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Game Changer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:10
Legendary sports agent on bettering brain health - Jane's special guest is Leigh Steinberg, the greatest and most successful sports agent of all time, representing star athletes and coaches in football, basketball, baseb…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Touchdown!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:53
An NFL Superstar on being Better Than Before - Jane’s special guest today is Brian Dawkins, a football legend as one of the greatest NFL Safeties of all time. Brian, viewed as the leader of the Philadelphia Eagles' defen…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Screen Test [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:00
Kate Walsh Finds the GRAIL - Jane’s special guest today is the renowned and multi-talented Kate Walsh, who we are delighted to have back for her third appearance on the show. Kate has starred in such blockbusters as Grey…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: A New You [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:14
Simple steps for personal growth and renewal - Jane’s special guest today is Dr. John McGrail, clinical hypnotherapist, best-selling author, self-improvement expert and much sought-after spirituality teacher, regarded as…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: A League of his Own [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:59
Johnny Damon brings his A-Game - Jane’s special guest is Johnny Damon, a Major League star outfielder for an amazing 18 seasons, becoming one of the most outstanding, respected, and durable players in the league's histor…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Carla is Cooking [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:06
Talking health and coolness with a chef extraordinaire - Jane’s special guest is Carla Hall, a world-renowned, award-winning chef, best-selling cookbook author, and on-air star. You will recognize her from your favorite…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: His Heart Went On....and On! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:49
Iconic sportscaster on curing AFib - Jane’s very special guest is renowned television anchor and radio show host Michael (Greeny) Greenberg. Indeed, in addition to a multitude of his other accolades and accomplishments,…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Your Attention Please! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:54
Busy Philipps on ADHDJane’s special guest is Busy Philipps, a New York Times best-selling author, actor, activist, writer, mom of two, and host of the new QVC Plus series, Busy This Week. She is best known from her work…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: The Lowe Down on RSV [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:22
Talking children's health with Catherine Lowe - Jane’s special guest, Catherine Guidici Lowe, is as close to being a Renaissance woman as one can imagine. She is a successful entrepreneur, graphic designer, social media…
BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Here “Oui” Go…Again! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:03
Legendary Olympic Gold Medalist’s encore appearance - Paris might be hosting the Olympics, but here in New York City, Jane’s guest today is Dara Torres, a twelve-time Olympic medalist swimmer and world record-holder. Ren…