Episode Details

In this powerful episode of The Dream Journal, host Katherine Bell speaks with award-winning author Diane Hartman about the profound connection between dreams, depression, writing, and self-discovery.

Diane shares the deeply personal story behind her memoir, Getting Lost on My Way: Self-Discovery on Ireland’s Back Roads, and how a solo journey through Ireland helped her confront the “black dog” of depression, reclaim her voice, and rediscover herself through writing.

Together, Katherine and Diane explore how dreams can guide healing, illuminate emotional truth, and reveal the deeper patterns shaping our lives.

Diane opens up about recurring dreams of a black dog chasing her—a powerful symbol of depression—and the unforgettable dream encounters that shaped her path, including a life-changing connection to Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue.

The conversation also touches on creativity, memoir writing, ancestral memory, photography, humor in healing, and the courage it takes to follow a dream even when fear is present.

If you’re interested in dreamwork, memoir, mental health, healing journeys, Ireland travel, creative transformation, or the role of dreams in personal growth, this episode offers inspiration, depth, and practical encouragement.

In this episode, we explore:

• Dreams and their role in emotional healing
• Depression and the symbol of the “black dog”
• Diane Hartman’s solo travels through Ireland
• Writing as a path to recovery and self-discovery
• The influence of John O’Donohue and the idea of anam cara (soul friend)
• Memoir, creativity, photography, and transformation
• How humor and courage can coexist with grief and struggle

Diane Hartman is an award-winning author, photographer, and retired school librarian. Her memoir, Getting Lost on My Way: Self-Discovery on Ireland’s Back Roads, traces her deeply personal journey through depression, travel, and creative awakening.

Contact our guest: DianeHartmanAuthor.com

The IASD conference is June 13-17 in Ashland Oregon. Find out more at IASDconferences.org/2026/

This show, episode number 363, was recorded during a live broadcast on May 16, 2026 at KSQD.org, community radio of Santa Cruz.

SHARE A DREAM FOR THE SHOW or a question or enquire about being a guest on the podcast by emailing Katherine Bell at