In this deeply poignant episode, I sit down with Jennifer, a dedicated mental health professional and grieving mother who faced an unimaginable tragedy when her son took his own life in 2023. Despite being attuned to the signs of mental distress through their work in the mental health field, Jennifer and her husband were blindsided by this devastating loss. Join us as she shares her family's unique journey through grief, highlighting the different ways each member has coped with their profound sorrow. As Jennifer also embarks on her path to becoming a nurse practitioner, she reflects on the intersection of personal tragedy and professional insight, offering valuable perspectives on mental health awareness and support for those affected by suicide. This episode is not only an exploration of loss but also a testament to resilience and the importance of community in healing.

You can check out Jennifer's YouTube channel, where she talks about her journey more here:

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2hY6EEM0v5wG8xArH6RyaA

In this episode, I delve into the powerful and inspiring story of Vanessa, a single mom who has navigated the complexities of life with resilience and strength. Growing up in Massachusetts, Vanessa took on the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings while her parents worked tirelessly to provide for the family. Her journey took a transformative turn when she left home to pursue higher education, but life threw unexpected challenges her way. After marrying young and facing years of fertility struggles, Vanessa found herself starting anew in Florida after leaving an abusive relationship. Her path led her through various states including South Carolina before settling in Kentucky, where she now thrives as a mother and runs an online counseling business. Join me as we explore Vanessa’s courageous journey through domestic abuse, motherhood, and living multiple lives—each shaping her into the resilient woman she is today.

In this enlightening episode, I sit down with Haley, a former police officer who made the courageous decision to prioritize her mental health by leaving the force. After recognizing the toll that years of service had taken on her well-being, Haley embarked on a transformative journey that led her to launch her own social media management business in March 2022. Join me as we explore Haley's experiences within law enforcement, the challenges she faced regarding mental health, and how she successfully navigated her career transition. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of social media in today's world!

Find Haley here:

• https://raidmediamanagement.com/

In this poignant episode, we dive into the harrowing journey of addiction and recovery with our guest, Travis. His story is one of resilience in the face of overwhelming loss—beginning with a painful divorce that led him down a dark path filled with substance abuse. After losing custody of his two children, Travis turned to meth and other drugs as a means to cope, leading to a series of tumultuous relationships and failed marriages. As he navigated through these challenges, his addiction spiraled further out of control until it cost him everything he held dear. Join me as we explore the complexities surrounding addiction, touching on themes such as loss, redemption, and the long road to recovery. Tune in for an honest conversation about hitting rock bottom and finding hope amidst despair.

Rehab's Travis Attended:

• https://simplesolutionsrecovery.com/
• https://www.lcrecovery.com/

In this inspiring episode, I welcome Lori, a passionate humanitarian and entrepreneur who has transformed the lives of thousands through her dedication to self-discovery and empowerment. Join me as we dive into her powerful strategies for building inner strength and explore the enchanting concept of saying "yes." Lori shares her journey, insights, and practical tools that can help you unlock your potential and embrace opportunities with an open heart. Whether you're seeking personal growth or looking to make a positive impact in the world, this conversation is sure to ignite your spirit and motivate you to harness the magic that lies in affirming possibilities. Tune in for an uplifting discussion that encourages you to step boldly into your own journey!

To find Lori:

• website: https://loripappas.com

• newsletter: https://loripappas.substack.com

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/lori-pappas-magic-of-yes

• Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.phpid=61571191115391

• Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553945861225

• Instagram: @loripappas_

In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn, a former star swimmer whose journey through childhood athletics and personal struggles has shaped her unique perspective on health and wellness. After grappling with an eating disorder and body image issues as a young athlete, Carolyn made the courageous decision to come off birth control in search of holistic healing practices. This pivotal choice led her down a challenging path of gut issues and ultimately revealed the presence of several autoimmune diseases, compounded by long COVID symptoms. Join me as Carolyn shares her inspiring story of resilience, offers insights into the complexities of living with autoimmune conditions, and discusses the importance of self-advocacy in health journeys. Whether you're navigating similar challenges or simply curious about autoimmune diseases, this episode is packed with valuable information and heartfelt reflections.

Find Carolyn here:

• www.nutritionbycarolynk.com
• https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091333020875

• https://linktr.ee/carolynkelk?fbclid=IwY2xjawJk9_ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHil-h5PTn4-f21RvGflDzSf_vdKzBCx8LgrXd7Q3t3CKdttw9N3u3KCoha5o_aem_L_0CRWuVPpET_zlDmXengQ

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Emma, a twice-adopted Chinese immigrant who opens up about her challenging journey from childhood to adulthood. Navigating the complexities of growing up in two strict households, both burdened by expectations and emotional distance, Emma shares her experiences of trauma and resilience. We delve into her life story—starting with her first set of parents who imposed rigid Christian values, followed by a second family that struggled with their own issues of acceptance. Join us as we discuss the profound impacts of childhood trauma and abuse on identity formation, the unique challenges faced by adopted children, and how Emma has learned to embrace her past while forging a path toward healing and empowerment. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the strength found in vulnerability.

In this enlightening episode, I dive into the world of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic disorder that affects thousands of individuals worldwide. Join me as I sit down with Whitney, who shares her personal journey living with NF1. We explore the symptoms and causes of this condition, as well as its connection to schwannomatosis and other genetic disorders. Whitney opens up about her advocacy work, shedding light on the importance of awareness and support for those affected by NF1. Whitney shares how she has traveled to Washington D.C & Chicago to talk with representatives about the disorder. Tune in for an insightful conversation that not only educates but also inspires hope and resilience within the community!

Links for info on NF1:

• https://www.ctf.org/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/neurofibromatosis-type-1/

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Amanda, an incredibly brave individual who shares her heart-wrenching journey through unimaginable loss and adversity. Growing up as an 80's kid, Amanda learned early on how to navigate life independently. She became a mother at a young age and faced the challenges of caring for a child born with a heart murmur that required open heart surgery when she was just weeks old. Tragically, Amanda’s world shattered when her 18-month-old daughter was killed in a devastating accident right outside their home. This profound loss led her down a difficult path filled with grief and reliance on alcohol as she grappled with the pain of losing her child. On top of this trauma, Amanda endured domestic abuse—mental, emotional, and physical—that further complicated her healing process. In recent times, she has faced estrangement from her mother but has emerged stronger than ever by embracing each day as a blessing and recognizing that everyone deserves love. Join us for this candid conversation about resilience in the face of tragedy and finding hope amid darkness.

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Jolene, the inspiring host of the Motherhood of the Rails Podcast. Join me as I dive into her personal journey through motherhood, discussing the profound impact of miscarriage and how it has shaped her experience as a mother to her rainbow baby. Jolene shares her candid reflections on child loss, the challenges faced along the way, and how podcasting has served as a powerful outlet for connection and healing. Whether you're navigating your own path through loss or seeking to understand the complexities of motherhood, this episode offers valuable insights and support for all listeners. Tune in for an emotional yet uplifting conversation that celebrates resilience and hope in motherhood.

Jolene's Podcast:

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/motherhood-off-the-rails/id1708064906