An interesting Life Talk with Susan Barlin

MANILA, Philippines — Dr. Susan Barlin, Ph.D is exactly the kind of character you’d like Bea Alonzo or Judy Ann Santos portray on the small or big screen, if and when the professional life coach agrees to turn her life story into a cinematic narrative.

However, Barlin’s interest lies not in putting herself in the spotlight even when she started her online show, Life Talk with Susan Barlin, on YouTube. Her goal is to share learning experiences, both struggles and victories, of other people, including public figures and celebrities.

She stresses the importance of having someone to talk to or learning from other people in dealing with life situations, especially at this time of uncertainty due to the ongoing health crisis.

“Through the show, I want the viewers to listen, learn and live a happy life,” she said and pointed out that the experiences of her celebrity guests, more often than not, are relatable to the audience.

“People can even learn from them. Sometimes, when we struggle, it’s good to have someone who can give hope or at least, motivate us. Mas nag-kakaroon tayo ng lakas ng loob at pag-asa ‘pag nalalaman natin na may isang tao na pinagdaanan ang kaparehong sitwasyon natin at napagtagumpayan n’ya ito.”

Barlin’s previous guests, actors Baron Geisler and Kathleen Hermosa, inspired many people to keep on improving and to never give up on their dreams. Baron previously became notorious for always getting into trouble. But in the show, people can see how much the actor has changed, as he shared how he was able to overcome his past and find newfound happiness. Another episode featured Kathleen, who achieved her dreams despite experiencing life’s humps and bumps.

Baron Geisler inspires the audience with his life story in the show

“I am not from showbiz and you can say that I am a stranger to my celebrity guests. So, the discussion is purely objective, hindi ako biased when I give advice or say things to them,” said Barlin, who’s been recognized for her entrepreneurship, leadership and community service.

Barlin said her hectic schedule prevents her from watching TV shows. That’s why she is not so familiar with today’s popular stars. “But I love Oprah Winfrey for her candidness. Also, Boy Abunda because I like his style.”

Asked what pieces of advice can she give to celebrities who are jobless due to limited acting offers, Barlin said it is best to reinvent themselves and identify what they can present to people as a form of entertainment “because people cannot go out of their homes so they need something that they can entertain themselves.”

Life Talk, she said, is timely as it helps people in overcoming their anxieties and provides them a good source of entertainment.

Barlin with Kathleen Hermosa