Episode #115: Stories We Carry

Stories We Carry with Jackie Tantillo

How do the stories of our past shape who we become? Today we welcome Jackie Tantillo, veteran broadcaster and host of Should Have Listened to My Mother, to explore the deep, lasting impact of maternal influence on our lives.

Jackie, the youngest of seven in an Italian-American family, shares personal reflections on how childhood experiences, familial bonds, and life’s unexpected twists—including a career in radio broadcasting and a life-altering accident —have shaped her path. From her early years interviewing music legends like Lou Rawls and Elvis Costello to becoming a voiceover artist and podcaster, Jackie’s journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of storytelling. 

Through engaging conversations, Jackie emphasizes the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship, the lessons we carry forward, and the role of self-discovery and healing, in midlife. Whether you’re reflecting on your own family dynamics, navigating a career pivot, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with insights on embracing change, honoring personal growth, and finding meaning in our life experiences.

Tune in to hear behind-the-scene stories, surprising guest revelations, and the wisdom that comes from truly listening—to our mothers, to ourselves, and to the narratives that define us.

Key Takeaways from Stories We Carry

The Lasting Impact of Our Mothers: 

Jackie shares how her mother, Linda, has continued to influence her life even after passing. Raised in a large, tight-knit Italian-American family, Jackie recalls the importance of family traditions like shared dinners and an appreciation for beauty in simple things—experiences that have shaped who she is today. Despite her mother’s passing on the very day of this recording, Jackie feels her presence through memories, a constant influence on her life.

The Magic of Family Bonds:

As the youngest of seven children, Jackie grew up in an environment where family was the center of everything. Jackie’s siblings were not just family but her support system, a close-knit unit that shaped her view on relationships. The lesson here: family doesn’t just mean blood relations, but those who offer support, unconditional love, and care.

The Influence of Radio and Broadcast on Jackie’s Career:

Radio played a major role in Jackie’s life, with her mother’s love for the medium inspiring her passion for broadcasting. From childhood, the radio was always on in her home, whether it was news, opera, or mystery theater. Jackie’s fascination with radio led her to study the medium and eventually pursue a career in broadcasting. Even though the journey was tough for women in the industry at the time, Jackie persevered, knowing this was the path she was meant to take.

Overcoming Adversity: The Car Accident That Changed Her Life:

Jackie opens up about a life-changing car accident she survived in her 20s. The crash left a lasting impact on her, and she reflects on how this moment reshaped her outlook on life, especially in terms of empathy and presence. Despite the tragedy, she’s turned this experience into a force for good, often being the first on the scene at accidents, driven by intuition and a desire to help others.

The Journey from Radio to Podcasting: “Should Have Listened to My Mother”:

Jackie’s transition from traditional radio to podcasting has been a natural evolution. Inspired by her own relationship with her mother, her podcast Should Have Listened to My Mother explores the complex dynamics between mothers and their children. The show dives into whether we are shaped by our mothers or if we rebel against them. Through heartfelt stories from guests, Jackie uncovers the lessons learned, the things we wish we had known, and how we can heal from difficult pasts.

The Power of Listening and Communicating in Relationships:

A major takeaway from Jackie’s podcasting journey is the importance of truly listening to those we care about. She shares a moment when her son pointed out that she wasn’t really hearing him, a realization that led her to become more intentional in her conversations. Listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about engaging emotionally and being present.

The Impact of Difficult Upbringings – Breaking the Cycle:

In her podcast, Jackie has interviewed people with difficult, sometimes traumatic, childhoods. She shares one particularly shocking story of a mother who led her children into stealing and then abandoned them when caught. Despite these difficult beginnings, the children went on to turn their lives around, showing that it’s possible to break generational patterns. This theme of resilience and breaking cycles is central to the podcast and Jackie’s message.

The Importance of Self-Discovery and Healing:

Jackie concludes by reflecting on the ongoing process of self-discovery. She encourages listeners to take time to listen to their bodies and minds, acknowledging that life moves fast, but we must slow down to heal. Whether through conversations with loved ones or facing unresolved issues, Jackie emphasizes that emotional release and healing are essential for personal growth.

Connect with Jackie Tantillo

Connect with Bev:

Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenover50rock

https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverleyglazer/

Get the Readiness Reinvention Quiz – Are You Prepared to Transform Your Life?: 

The Reinvention Readiness Quiz™

Need advice? Schedule a time to talk: https://calendly.com/reinventimpossible/15min