Connecting Through Compassion Through the Aloha Spirit with June Dillinger

In a world drowning in quick scrolls and shallow connections, how do we truly understand love and personal growth? In this episode of The True Love Knots Podcast, Maria sits down with June Dillinger, creator of Heart Cards, to explore how a simple card draw can transform relationships, workplace culture, and personal growth. June shares how her father’s disability shaped her journey and inspired her to create atool that helps people pause, listen, and connect on a deeper level. She explains why true love and understanding start with intentional reflection and how Heart Cards are more than just a deck—they’re a bridge to self-awarenessand meaningful connections. If you’re ready to open your heart, this episode is for you.

Standout Quotes:

· “The more I share my talents and gifts with others, the more I have for myself.”

· “If we can let our heart lead, miracles will happen.”

· “Aloha is ‘alo,’ meaning life, and ‘ha,’ meaning breath. So, when you say aloha, you’re sharing the breath of life.”

· “When we pause and look at our mate, neighbor, dog, or someone we might be angry with, just pause. It’s in the in-between space that everything changes.”

· “There’s not one negative card in the deck. They’re all positive, and gently so. They nudge us to see more of the beauty within us.”

Key Takeaways:

· Practice the “pause” daily – take 60 seconds to genuinely connect with someone around you, making full eye contact and expressing authentic appreciation without distractions.

· Start a workplace or personal ritual using the Heart Cards: draw one card at the beginning of your day/meeting to spark meaningful conversation and self-reflection.

· Challenge yourself to notice body language in conversations – are you truly present? Adjust your posture, turn towards the speaker, and give full attention to demonstrate genuine listening.

· Create a personal “love visibility” experiment: for one week, intentionally perform small acts of kindness or connection that make love tangible for others, tracking how it shifts your perspective.

· Embrace the Hawaiian concept of “Aloha” – literally sharing the breath of life – by consciously infusing your daily interactions with genuine connection and compassion.

Episode Timeline:

[00:02] Introducing June Dillinger

[04:08] From Weddings to Prisons: How June Helps People Find Love

[05:50] The Secret Power of Pausing (And How It Can Change Your Life)

[08:40] What Are Heart Cards? A Simple Tool for Deeper Connections

[12:41] Heart Cards Shuffle Demonstration

[18:42] How to Get Certified in Heart Cards (And Why It Matters)

[21:23] The Personal Story Behind Heart Cards & Their Impact

[24:21] Bringing Heart Cards to Schools, Workplaces, and Communities

[24:40] What Aloha Really Means & How to Bring More Love Into Your Life

Learn more about June Dillinger on her socials:

Website: ⁠https://www.heartcardsglobal.com/⁠