by patricia on June 30, 2012
Each week, we take a look back over the week to bring you the “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming each week. Although it may not always be able to choose…we did our best!
- “Super Soul Sunday” with Caroline Myss – Many people get stuck in their disbelief that the ordinary happened to them. “Why me?” for sickness, job loss, broken marriage, etc. It happens. No one is excluded from the ordinary. Embrace it and learn from the lessons.
- “Oprah’s Next Chapter” with the Kardashians – Most people know who the Kardashians are whether they watch their show or not. They are everywhere. But as Oprah sat down with each of the family members, something emerged that wasn’t really expected. One of the underlying motives became clearer…doing the show and working together has become a strong rope that binds their family and relationships. The love was palpable and it is easy to see why all of them focus on working as much as they can. They don’t want to lose that connection.
- “Super Soul Sunday” with Caroline Myss – Big lesson: When you have the opportunity to protect yourself and you don’t, you are sending the message that you aren’t worth protecting and are no different from those who hurt you. You can’t place blame on those who hurt you if you allow it. It’s an honest way to break it down and keep it real.
- “Our America with Lisa Ling” – With nearly one in three young girls getting pregnant in their teens, Lisa Ling took viewers on a journey to understand the circumstances that led some of these girls to fast adulthood. In a society that seduces and pressures young teens very early on, we MUST have these conversations with young men and women. While highlighting a couple of programs that help to bring a glimpse of reality to teen pregnancy, Lisa Ling reminded us that it is so important to open up the conversation about sex and the reality of pregnancy and parenthood with kids today.
- “Oprah’s Next Chapter” with Bruce Jenner – Just loved when Bruce spoke of how he never displayed his medals around the house when the kids were growing up. Although there was pride and joy associated with his accomplishments, he never wanted his kids to feel they had to measure up to his success. He wanted them to be their own people. As for accolades, he now feels his kids are his gold medals.
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by patricia on June 16, 2012
Each Friday, we are taking a look back over the week and bringing you the “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming each week. There were plenty of moments to pick from….so much good stuff and we did our best!
- “Oprah’s Next Chapter” with Paris Jackson – Must admit, we were a little bummed that the Jackson family were only able to give a half hour. This is a family that everyone has grown up talking about. It doesn’t matter where you lived…everyone knew Michael. As soon as cameras rolled onto Paris, there was a sense of relief. She looked good and seemed to be doing well. After losing her father so many of us worried about what would happen to the family and most importantly the kids. The best moment was when Paris shared her father’s views on covering their faces when they were young. Although many of us understood at the time that he was trying to protect them (in Michael’s unique way), what we didn’t realize is that by doing this he enabled his children to have a semi-normal life. They were able to go out with nannies without any disguises. What a gift. Michael gave them the childhood he was never able to have.
- “Our America with Lisa Ling” – Let’s be honest…it isn’t easy watching young girls dress up with a ton of makeup and dance like they need a pole. It makes everyone uncomfortable. As Lisa Ling asked parents about beauty pageants and the effect it was having on their children, it was obvious that the parents were still a little uncomfortable with the whole thing. The moment that was most interesting was when the parents of Keisha told us that they would love their child regardless. It was a sweet moment, but crazy! Although her parents give her that unconditional love, the message the beauty pageant sends is that unless you are flawless…society may not.
- “Super Soul Sunday” with Sarah Ban Breathnach- Last Sunday, Oprah sat back down with Sarah Ban Breathnach, author of “Simple Abundance” to discuss how fame changed her life and the lessons it brought to her. The greatest but simplest aha moment came late in the interview. When they talked of her journey, Oprah asks Sarah, “Do you ever wish the fame and fortune never happened.” Sarah’s response was, “No. I wish I was more prepared.” Sarah talks of wishing for a secret master class that helps someone when they arrive to fame quickly. But Oprah reminds us, ask when you do not know. Oprah says, “I knew that early on – that I didn’t know how to manage it – so I wasn’t afraid to ask for help.” Like a true teacher, teaching us through her own actions. When you don’t know, ask. When you want answers, ask. When you need help, don’t be afraid. Just ask.
- “Lives on Fire”– Only a couple of weeks in and we are already beginning to love the courageous women on “Lives on Fire.” As each of them maneuver their careers and still attempt to maintain a personal life, we see their personalities begin to emerge. Trying to constantly prove themselves, they are pushing themselves physically and mentally. Now don’t get me wrong. Women can do ANYTHING a man can do, but the pressures they feel in a male-dominated field…it isn’t easy. However, these women are truly holding their own!
- “Million Dollar Neighborhood” –The show premiered giving practical advice about coming together and making a change. Revealing embarrassing financial secrets, people shared the emotional baggage that had locked them into their unhealthy spending. “You can’t get where you want to go if you don’t know where you are,” host Bruce Sellery tells us. He is so right. If you have no idea what is happening, you can’t begin to adjust it. Not acknowledging it…won’t make it go away!
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Each week, we take a look back and bringing you our “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming. With so much new programs coming to the OWN summer line-up, it’s getting more difficult but we’ll do our best!
- Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s - On the season finale something completely unexpected occurred. A huge deal wasn’t made of it and the clips didn’t over hype the situation. After Andre was suspended the second time the whole family worried that his path was still in question. However the voice of reason came from one of the most unlikely places. Taking a quiet moment, Charles approached Andre and shared his concerns about the path to prison and death. He wasn’t preachy. He was sincere and shockingly mature. He wanted more for his cousin. Andre listened intently. For once, someone really seemed to break through to him. It will certainly change his and Charles relationship…and hopefully will change his life.
- Iyanla Fix My Life – OWN gave us a sneak peek of Fix My Life on Saturday, after the finale of Sweetie Pies. In her own self-help workshop on OWN, Iyanla takes the stage to help people move past anything that is holding them back and move forward into life. Somewhere in between family counseling and a workshop, the regular series begins September 15th. With a little tweaking of program, this program could grow a nice audience and be a highlight to the network. Right now, it’s a diamond in the rough but still, worth checking out.
- Are You Normal, America? – Bringing a little fun and balance to life, Oprah and OWN have brought us their version of a grown-up game show and it works. High marks for the game show and for the concept. It’s time to get normal…or not. Your choice.
- Oprah’s Next Chapter with Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka - As Next Chapter continues to set the bar high, Oprah (if possible) continues to raise her own by bringing us incredibly personal interviews. Going into the home and sitting barefoot in the backyard with Neil and David was amazing and eye-opening. This modern-day family shared stories from their past and dreams for their future. What was most incredible about the interview was how down-to-earth both of them were. Joking about how small their house was as they watched for Oprah through the front door window, it was clear that they were both modest and totally normal. Chasing the kids around barefoot, viewers watched as if we all sat in our own neighbor’s backyard. It was not just relatable, it was memorable. Oprah’s Next Chapter with these two men (who are now TDO favorites) was brilliant. This was definitely a highlight to the ONC series and one of our favorites.
- Premier of Lives on Fire! – This week we were introduced to the courageous women who will be sharing their lives with us on OWN’s newest show. With less than 7% of Cal Fire firefighters being women, the four women highlighted in this program are all unique with their own incredible stories. The up-close and personal moments provide viewers with a ride-along feel as we delve into the lives of some of the most courageous people. Get ready to be inspired and moved by these everyday women doing extraordinary jobs!
Okay so we know we already gave you five BUT since we missed the Top 5 last week we can’t write about top moments without including one standout from last week….
- Oprah’s Next Chapter with Cory Booker - We couldn’t write this list without addressing this interview. Because of Oprah and Next Chapter, we now have a new political crush. With a relaxed and open conversation, the Mayor of Newark, New Jersey offered an openness that we hope yet rarely see with politicians. Where President Obama brought us a new connection with politicians which ignited the world, Mayor Cory Booker showed us a NEW level of expectations for politicians which we hope will change the world. Not only was he likable and sometimes even lovable, he was funny and smart, and ego’s aside, he is now one of our favorite politicians and people to see.
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by patricia on May 6, 2012
Once again Sunday is packed full of greatness. Clean out some space on your DVR and get ready to push record because you seriously won’t want to miss any of these shows. They are that good! Here is how it all lays out.
- 6-10AM: “Oprah’s Lifeclass” marathon including Toni Morrison & Oprah’s trip back in time with Gayle.
- 10AM: “Super Soul Sunday” interview with Deepak Chopra (repeat of last week but SO good)
- 11AM: ”Super Soul Sunday” interview with Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh.
- 2-10PM: “Oprah’s Master Class” marathon including lessons from Jon Bon Jovi, Ted Turner & Oprah.
- 10PM: “Oprah’s Master Class” Special Edition offering memorable lessons & never before seen clips!
If you were hoping we would narrow down the best shows for you, we have to say that it is impossible. Each and every episode is high-quality programming packed with lessons and A-HA moments. We wouldn’t want you to miss a moment. So here is your heads up! Now be sure to watch.
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by patricia on May 4, 2012
Each Friday, we are taking a look back over the week and bringing you the “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming each week. There were plenty of moments to pick from….so much good stuff and we did our best!
- “Oprah’s Next Chapter” with the Widows in India – The Mother Teresa moment with Dr. Giri was incredible. Not only did she open her heart and a home, she gave widows hope for something more than what society had given them. She showed them that they had value and that they mattered. We were shocked to see how the Indian culture responded to widows in the community…especially since the culture seemed so family centric and both peaceful and loving. While we found ourselves respecting so much about their culture, we were disappointed to see it didn’t translate to all aspects.
- “Oprah’s Lifeclass: The Tour Finale” with Tony Robbins– Although virtually each and every word in the finale was a lesson in gratitude, one moment in particular brought both of us to tears…participating in Tony Robbin’s “Emotional Flood.” Learning about the stacking of experiences was such an “A-Ha” moment. This lesson led into an incredible journey of gratitude. The memories flooded us…moments that we didn’t even expect, some of which included OWN Ambassadors and our journey with OWN. The experience was priceless. YES…it was that good!
- “Oprah’s Master Class” with Sidney Poitier – Another Sunday with Sidney, Sidney Poitier gives us an additional hour of Master Class and amazing lessons to fill our lives. One of the greatest lessons from this second hour is “Don’t let failure get in your way.” Through all the stories that Sidney adorns us with, the common thread is his courage and persistence to just keep moving forward. His heart sings with the stories as he tells us of his journey…of his poor auditions…of his learning to read through listening to the radio…of his offer to be the janitor just to attend acting lessons. His ability to not let failure get in the way and the amazing way that he is able to see it less as failure and more as opportunity, is an admirable character trait that we can all learn from. Just keep moving forward…when you see an obstacle, find a way around it. Look for the opportunity in the moment. See the opportunities in life.
- “Oprah’s Lifeclass: The Tour Finale” Thank You Game – As we talk about pushing positive energy out into the world, Oprah challenged all of us to bring it to life with the “Thank You Game.” One “Thank You” has the ability to reach up to 258 people. By the end of the week, the “Thank You Game” had over 6 million moments of gratitude that had been sent out into the universe. We are certain that there were far many more…we only registered once but made it a point to voice gratitude at least 20 times a day. Thank you, Oprah, for reminding us to be grateful.
- Super Soul Sunday’s with Deepak Chopra- Once again a master of lessons, Deepak Chopra gave insight to his opinions on ageing and how we all can slow down our biological clocks. He began by instructing us to view our bodies as energies, rather than flesh and that balance was important. For if we are always in a hurry, our clocks will speed up…taking time off our lives. Our favorite quote was “People don’t grow old. When they stop growing, they become old.” Love it!
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by patricia on April 28, 2012
OWN has released their summer primetime schedule and we are SO excited! President of OWN, Sheri Salata shared that “Our new summer series have a common thread of being fun, entertaining and meaningful…It’s important to give the audience programming that makes them feel good, or provides them with inspiration in their own lives.” That is one thing that OWN seems to be getting right as they continue to build the network show by show. It won’t be long until the world considers them to be the template for exceptional programming.
“We feel strongly about the current state of the channel,” added Erik Logan, president, OWN. “We’re seeing success with our original programming and are continuing to build the network one night at a time.”
Here is how the schedule lays out from OWN. As a special treat, they have released previews to all the shows except ONC. I included them below with the show descriptions. Enjoy!
Fridays: (starting June 8th)
9-10PM – “Lives On Fire”
Saturdays: (starting June 9th)
9-1PM “Million Dollar Neighborhood”
10-11PM “Real Life: The Musical”
Sundays:
9-10PM “Oprah’s Next Chapter” featuring actor Neil Patrick Harris, Spiritual Healer John of God & more.
10-11PM “Our America with Lisa Ling” (starting June 10th)
Mondays: (starting June 4th)
9-10PM “Are You Normal, America?”– Sneak preview after “Oprah’s Next Chapter” on June 3rd at 10PM
Coming in…
July:“Super Saver Showdown”
August:“Lovetown, USA”
Lives on Fire highlights the journey of four women who risk their lives daily to assist in California’s most dangerous disasters. These female firefighters respond to life and death situations; battle the intense heat…all in a predominately male profession while they struggle to find the balance in work and home as mothers, daughter, wives, and girlfriends. Each of the women bring a little something different to the show as they try to balance the danger and normal everyday life.
[read more…]
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by patricia on April 27, 2012
Each Friday, we are taking a look back over the week and bringing you the “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming each week. There were plenty of moments to pick from….so much good stuff and we did our best!
- “Oprah’s Next Chapter” in India – Sitting in a 10×10 home with a beautiful family in the slums of Mumbai, viewers watch as the smiling faces of the children tell us how happy they are. Panning to the father who has tears in his eyes, Oprah asked him what his dream was for his family. He just wanted a better life for children. He had been in the same small room for 33 years (he had lived there with his family growing up). Despite how little they had, they were grateful…and that is how they lived their lives. It was a powerful reminder that as humans we really don’t need much. It’s all about perspective, adapting to what you have and never giving up hope.
- “Oprah’s Masterclass” with Sidney Poitier –Sidney’s “Masterclass” was bursting with lessons and light. Truly amazing work. However one piece spoke to us above all the other teachings. While working as a dishwasher in a restaurant, a Jewish waiter noticed that Sidney was looking at a newspaper and asked him “what’s new in the paper”. Unable to read, Sidney told him he didn’t have a good education and was trying to get better at reading. He asked Sidney if he’s like it if he read with him. An amazing outreach of the human spirit and a profound difference it made in his life. During the program, someone tweeted to us that there just aren’t people like that in the world today. But if anything this lesson has taught us is that we all have the ability to be the “Jewish waiter” and change someone’s life.
- “Oprah’s Lifeclass” with Deepak Chopra– Perez Hilton took to the stage talking about his new spiritual frequency. It was interesting. When we began our website we made a conscious decision. Despite all of the advice written out there telling bloggers to write negative material to attract readers, we made the decision to not go there. That isn’t who we are and it isn’t the energy we want to put out into the world. Listening to Perez one thing kept coming to my mind…”if you know better, you do better.” No one is perfect and the hope is that each of us can embrace the good despite the road it took for those to get there. AND we all are responsible for the energy we put out into the world. Be aware and be thoughtful.
- “Breakthrough” with Tony Robbins- Watching the journey of a couple who were falling apart, Tony highlighted Ron & Marie who had gone from a six-figure job to losing all of their savings and unable to find employment for years. Filling their marriage with blame, they didn’t know where to turn. In one of their tasks, Tony had them living on the street homeless (no perks or protection from the camera crew). They LIVED it. Learning to rely on one another and finding gratitude for what they have, they learned that they could handle anything. It was a wonderful lesson.
- Super Soul Sunday’s with Ram Dass- God lives in the moment…not in the past or future. Those are in the mind. In the stillness of “now” is where you find God. It’s a beautiful reminder to not get caught up in the past or obsessed with the future. In the still of now is what truly matters.
Don’t see your favorite moment here? Well…leave a comment and share it with other us and the rest of the OWN family.
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by patricia on April 20, 2012
Each Friday, we are taking a look back over the week and bringing you the “Top 5 Moments” of OWN programming each week. There were plenty of moments to pick from….so much good stuff and we did our best!
“Oprah’s Next Chapter” with Gloria Steinem – Although Gloria’s personal story was amazing, the part of this show that resonated most with viewers was that the conversation was opened up and we were reminded of the difficult road so many women took to get to where we are today. Paths that greatly impacted the lives of brave women like Gloria Steinem. There is no one quite like Gloria, but we pray that there will be. All of us are Gloria, whether we are women or men. Equality is so much more than about doing what is fair…it is about respecting one another. Kudos to OWN for putting a spotlight on such an important woman in our history.
“Oprah’s Lifeclass”: The Tour Goes to Canada – All FIVE teachers on one stage…each taking us through 30 minutes of life changing lessons…but the real OWN moment was Oprah in Canada. For weeks since the announcement, Canadians have been flooding the social media scene with excitement and anticipation. Starting in the early hours before daylight, #OinTO participants lined the streets for their moment in Lifeclass. Ending into the night with the second taping and the sun going down, Oprah took in all the love from the 17,000 in attendance at the events from the day. Students were there because of one teacher…one woman…and one amazing team to bring the lessons to the world LIVE! With an amazing energy and great Canadian OWN and Oprah fans, Canada finally got their Oprah moment and now, they are already ready for the next time!
“Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s”- Trust is such an important part of our daily lives. Whether it is your childcare provider, an employee, a boss, or a loved one, we all need people in our lives that we know have our back and we can believe in. Without trust there is no peace of mind. This week “Sweetie Pie’s” reminded just how important trust can be with stolen items and young TJ’s care.
“Breakthrough with Tony Robbins” – It is easy to get stuck in disappointment about unfulfilled dreams. This week was a great example of the emotional quicksand which makes us resistant to change. Juaquin Hawkins’ path from basketball star to stroke survivor was a lesson to us all…a great example of how your job doesn’t define you or what you are to become. Life is so much bigger than that.
Super Soul Sunday’s Film, “Autism: The Musical” – Sometimes change can only occur when you step back and look at a situation from a different perspective. In this film, not only do we learn new innovative techniques to help children with autism, we are reminded that anything is possible. In a world of boxes and can’ts, this film sends a resounding “yes you can” message and OWN viewers heard it loud and clear.
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