In this Business Blast Podcast episode, host Tyler Wagner interviews author Dana S. Milson, creator of the memoir Flames. The conversation begins with a sponsor plug for Authors Unite, then moves into Dana’s most impactful personal story—losing everything and experiencing homelessness, which reshaped her perspective on humility and resilience. She discusses her core expertise: conveying intimate life experiences to readers so they can feel her emotions. Dana shares broad business wisdom, emphasizing honesty and trustworthiness as the foundation of personal credibility. When asked for advice to her younger self, she urges taking chances to avoid future regret, and she defines happiness as achieving peace of mind. The discussion turns to literature, highlighting Who Moved My Cheese? and the lesson of adaptability embodied by the character Hawa. Dana cites her favorite quote from Marcus Tullius Cicero—“Do not hold the delusion that your advancement is accomplished by crushing others”—and explains its relevance to modern society’s competitive mindset, advocating for preserving relationships. The episode concludes with Dana’s online contact points: her Facebook and LinkedIn profiles. Throughout, the tone remains conversational and reflective, offering personal insights and actionable advice for listeners.
Chapters
Welcome to the Business Blast Podcast. I'm your host, Tyler Wagner. This episode is brought to you by Authors Unite. Authors Unite provides you with all the resources you need to become a successful author. You can learn more about Authors Unite and join the free community at authorsunite.com. Now let's jump into the episode.
Alright everyone, welcome back to another episode of the Business Blast Podcast. I'm your host Tyler Wagner. Today I have Dana Milson with us. She is the author of Flames. So welcome to the show, Dana.
Thank you. Thank you for having me.
Yeah, thanks for coming on. We'll dive in. The first one I have for you, Dana, is what is the best story from your life that has an underlying valuable message?
Hmm. Oh, wow. I think losing everything and starting over gave me a new perspective on life. Experiencing homelessness was a whole other level of humility.
And what is the most valuable piece of information we should know that's within your expertise or industry?
Being able to share a life experience with strangers. And make them feel all of my emotions as they read, you know, my intimate thoughts, you know, as I went through the story.
And what's your best piece of overall business advice, but not necessarily industry-specific?
Be honest and trustworthy, because all you have is your word as a human being.
Mm. And if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would that be?
Never be afraid to take chances, or you'll say, "I wish I would have done that sooner." And in your opinion, what is the key to happiness? A peace of mind. Mm.
And what is the best book that you've read, and what was the number one thing you learned from that?
Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson. I read this a couple of years ago and it was one character in it, Hawa, and Hawa was able to adapt to different situations. So I kind of relate to that.
And what is your favorite quote and why?
Oh, my favorite quote is from Marcus Tullius Cicero. Do not hold the delusion that your advancement is accomplished by crushing others.
I love it.
You know, I feel that way because, you know, today's society, people feel that they have to down someone or, uh, like do something to make it to the top. But I was always taught, don't burn your bridges because you may have to come across them again.
Ah, yes. Thank you so much for coming on, Dana. The last question I have for you before we let you go is where's the best place for people to find you online?
Dana S. Milson, my Facebook, and Dana S. Milson on my LinkedIn.
Perfect. Thanks again, Dana. We'll talk soon.
Thank you.
The podcast you just heard was published with Anchor. Got something you want to say to the creator of this show? Send them a voice message using the Anchor app, free for iOS and Android.