Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast

Interview with anthology author Lily Rakow contributing the chapter titled "I Am Your Friend Too" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

As a notable voice in the twenty-something’s wellness space, Lily has built a loyal online audience who trusts her insights on just about everything - from the tough topics like battling anxiety and inching towards self acceptance - to lighter conversations like not-so-great first dates and hilarious roommate anecdotes.  After earning a certification in Integrative Nutrition, Lily decided to focus her professional efforts on teaching women to unlock their highest potential through her podcast, 80/20. Beyond the mic, you might find Lily hitting a new workout class with friends, cooking up one of her mom’s best recipes in the kitchen, spending time outside connecting with nature, or laughing with her sisters. www.lilyrakow.com  | @lilyrakow @8020pod

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Viviauna Brown contributing the chapter titled "Culture, Church, and Counsel" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Viviauna Brown is a meticulous and highly analytical individual with diverse, yet unique experiences. Although born and bred a "Mississippi Girl" and influenced deeply by Southern culture, she has always had an interest in experiencing other cultures, regions, and concepts throughout her life. Her longtime love of writing, her academic journey, and career paths, have helped her to experience these aspects in a tremendous way.

Her academic achievements include graduating Cum Laude, having degrees in English (BA) and in TESOL (MA), and going on to utilize her skills in these areas to teach international students from China, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and other regions all over the world.

Equipped with expertise in various career areas, Viviauna has earned positions as a Virtual Executive Assistant, Business Consultant, ESL Instructor, Writer, and Researcher with organizations that include TEDxNashville, Southern Illinois University, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, and—more recently—the JxnFilmFestival, in her home state of Mississippi.

Some of her favorite activities include writing, conducting interviews, traveling, learning about different cultures, and continuously expanding her knowledge on aspects of faith and mental health. Although writing is Viviauna's 1st love, she has recently began to take her work beyond the page, by transferring some of her written projects into the world of film. Having recently written, casted, and directed for her 1st film-related project and rediscovering her love of interviewing people, she is excited about similar experiences to come! IG: @Viviauna | @Vsbonig
LI & FB: @Viviauna Brown
Website: www.virtuososblog.com

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Tracy Interlandi contributing the chapter titled "Dancing With My Self" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Tracy Interlandi is an award-winning consultant, a published author,  and acclaimed speaker.  Through the power of storytelling, she teaches others to influence any audience to take positive, immediate action.

Tracy was given a second chance in life after experiencing a near-fatal attack during early adulthood.  After years of reflection, Tracy began to share her story in a positive light.  The emotional connection and lasting impact of her speeches were  so undeniable that she immediately immersed herself in the mastery of  storytelling.  Her coursework included the study of human behavior, psychology of storytelling,  fundamentals of storytelling, public speaking, and multiple mentorships.

Since then, Tracy has spoken at events throughout the nation, including sales development courses and female empowerment festivals.  She is a freelance writer, and currently contributes to Women’s Quarterly Magazine.

Tracy’s dedication to storytelling has allowed her to forge strong connections with audiences and establish herself as a respected leader in sales and education.  Tracy lives in Coastal Delaware with her husband and two young sons.  Follow Tracy on Instagram at @tracy.interlandi or on her website at www.tracyinterlandi.com.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Amy Mathe contributing the chapter titled "Beautiful" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Amy Mathe is a coach, mother, wife, supporter, and friend who has worked as a Mental Health Professional for almost 20 years. Her passion is to support and serve those working to find healing and looking to take steps forward in their lives. Most recently, this has involved caring for those with chronic illness and facing the challenges associated with managing this type of a long-term struggle. In her work as a Coach, she helps people focus on working with what they have and healing from what might have changed or even what might have been lost.

Amy lives in Central VA and loves being a part of the Shenandoah Valley Community. Admiring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains where she lives has been healing in her own journey. She lives with her wonderful husband and two incredible and wild children. You can find her on IG @painpathway.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Delia Sullivan contributing the chapter titled "The Story I Told Myself" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Delia’s entrepreneurial journey began in her early twenties when she helped expand her family’s Gourmet-to-Go and Catering business in Alexandria, Virginia. Her creativity, zeal for personal growth, and entrepreneurial spirit continued to evolve.
She was drawn to storytelling through a camera lens, photographing indigenous people and documenting her travels across Europe. After fifteen years as a professional photographer, she is now dedicated to practicing and teaching yoga, and her storytelling has evolved into the written word.

As a dedicated yoga instructor for over sixteen years, she guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery, fostering the profound mind-body connection that can unleash creativity and personal growth. Delia’s dedication has expanded beyond teaching group classes and private sessions, as she actively facilitates women’s groups and quiet day retreats.

Delia’s path has been one of personal growth, and she is a catalyst for uplifting others. She strives to kindle the inner fire in each person she encounters, urging them to nurture their talents, embrace their authenticity, and fearlessly share their gifts with the world.

Delia grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, where she has spent most of her life. Her husband, three adult children, and extended family bring joy and fulfillment to her life.  She loves writing, traveling, practicing yoga outdoors, sailing, and listening to live music under the stars.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Julie Larkins contributing the chapter titled "Julie, I Love You" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Julie Larkins is known for her ever-changing hair color, genuine spirit, and exuberance for life. She’s unapologetically authentic and embraces the shadowy pieces of herself that she no longer hides away in shame.

Julie is an Intuitive Transformation Coach and Healer, and she launched her company, Revealing Colors, to help others find the magic that resides deep within them. Feeling genuinely seen, loved, and supported in her sacred space, her clients find deep liberation, embrace their authenticity, and build a life of joyful magic.

You will find Julie in Annapolis, Maryland, where she lives with her husband and their furry children. Her support system, elevating her beyond measure, includes her husband, daughter, friends, family, a sassy spirit team, and her vulture spirit guide, Mort.

For magic, whimsical fun, and doses of self-love, follow Julie on Instagram @revealingcolorsofficial. If you believe in magic (and she hopes you do), head to revealingcolors.com and dive in.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Emily Cartwright contributing the chapter titled "Run" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Emily has decided that pursuing life as a whole person is worth it. She spent years battling with the do’s and do not’s of how to show up in the world and finally made the decision to intentionally live an honest life, offering herself grace for the days it doesn’t go so well.  Emily is passionate about showing up for people in a way that reminds them they are not alone and that isolation doesn’t have to be their story. Emily holds a firm belief in therapy as a lifelong tool, and that everyone can benefit from a safe space to process.

Emily loves running, frequenting food trucks, and her dog sometimes. She has recently begun yoga as a practice and is rapidly realizing the positive effects it has on her mind, body and spirit. Intentional breathing is now a daily habit.  Her son Sam is her favorite human and together they take on all of life’s ups and downs. Emily owns a coffee shop in Colorado, where she finds so much joy working alongside the best crew, while simultaneously caffeinating the community.

Her close group of friends are her chosen family and she wouldn’t have it any other way. You can find her online on Instagram @emily._cart for all of life’s happenings and @themidlandstop if you are into the coffee scene. Ask her what the most simple life advice she has is, and she will tell you, start saying yes, even when you are scared, you never know what dreams might begin to unfold.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Michelle Ihry contributing the chapter titled "One Complicated Lady" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Michelle Ihry grew up on a small grains farm in central North Dakota,  raising wheat, barley, durum, oats and flax.  Her brother carries on that tradition of continuing the farming operation. She and her husband live in West Fargo, ND and Red Willow Lake, Binford, ND.  They have two children and six grandchildren.

In high school Michelle was a cheerleader, was on the track and basketball teams.  Her life changed when her mother passed away when Michelle was 14. Her goal is making sure everyone is happy  and cheering them on with their accomplishments.   Michelle had an interest in the dental field since elementary school.   She became a dental assistant soon after high school graduation.  She pursued Dental Hygiene and graduated from Moorhead Technical College after her children were in high school.  She finally started her dream job in 1999, as a Dental Hygienst. Michelle received her 200 hour yoga certification and teaches a variety of classes, her favorite being Cat Yoga, partnering with an animal rescue with the hopes of adopting kitties. She is also certified in pilates and breathwork.  Michelle has a small business called Sticks + Stones.
Michelle enjoys being outdoors with nature as much as possible and doing activites with her children and grandchildren.  Follow Michelle on Instagram @michelle.ihry and on Facebook "Michelle Ihry."

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Bre Cain contributing the chapter titled "Coming Home" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Since being diagnosed in early 2022 with untreated Lyme disease, Bre has had to reevaluate and evolve the relationship she has with her body in order to advocate for her own healing. She is passionate about openly sharing what led to over a decade of misdiagnosed pain, medical gaslighting, and the difficulties of receiving healthcare for a chronic illness while living in a fat body.

Bre is interested in continuing a conversation about the barriers of our current healthcare system and the repercussions of evaluating health based on socioeconomic status and image. Bre hopes by sharing her experience, others will feel empowered to ask questions, hold their providers accountable, and advocate for the body they live in.
Bre spent most of her life growing up in the Midwest and is the middle child of seven siblings. She is a Senior Designer, Creative Writer, and Small Business Owner living in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her favorite humans and biggest supporters are her husband Matt and their daughter, Evangeline.

You can follow Bre’s healing journey or connect with her about speaking engagements on Instagram @bre_cain, TikTok @healingmyhome, or by email at [email protected]

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast. 

Interview with anthology author Stacia Bissell contributing the chapter titled "Breaking the Glass Box" to Volume II Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.

Stacia Bissell, M.Ed., is a brain injury coach, educator, public speaker and survivor specializing in helping others find personal and professional growth after brain injury. Stacia spent much of her career as a secondary math teacher until taking on roles in school administration and academic coaching. In 2011, she became a licensed middle and high school principal with aspirations of running her own school, but a bicycle accident that same year left her with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and her career as a public school educator came to an end.

Stacia began focusing her attention on helping the brain injury community after building her own ladder and climbing up from the depths of her injury. She has been a keynote speaker at a number of conferences and events, written about her post TBI journey in Brain Injury HOPE Magazine, and has been a guest on the Mind Your Brain podcast. She serves on advisory councils for the Brain Injury Association of America and the Brain Injury Alliance of Vermont, was co-founder of the Northampton, Massachusetts brain injury support group, and is a Program Leader for LoveYourBrain. As an established coach and mentor to other survivors and caregivers, Stacia brings understanding, hope, and ideas for forward movement to each customized session.
Stacia is a native of Berkshire County in Western Massachusetts where she enjoys kayaking, camping, and hiking in the woods. She has three grown children and two grandchildren who bring her laughter and great joy. You can learn more about Stacia at www.TBImentor.com or @tbi.mentor on Instagram.

See more about Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies: desertstomountaintops.com
See more from Soul Speak Press: soulspeakpress.com

Find out more about Jessica Buchanan: Website

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a NYT Bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder of Soul Speak Press. Soul Speak Press is a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on publishing stories from women who have been through something, now they know something, and can teach us something.

Learn more about Jessica's first book: Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six

Learn more about the Deserts to Mountaintops Anthologies. If you're interested in hearing interviews with our Soul Speak Press authors, check out the Deserts to Mountaintops Podcast.