Ever felt like life's challenges are just too much to bear? Here’s how I learned to rise above. 💪

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Steve Moon, a writer, producer and director of independent films, share his journey throughthe ups and downs of filmmaking.  He faced countless obstacles—layoffs, personal struggles, and the looming question of whether he should give up. Yet, each setback became a stepping stone.

From a bad divorce that left him devastated to countless job losses, he learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about growing through what you go through.

Every time he wanted to quit, something miraculous happened. Like when he thought he wouldn’t be able to pay his daughter’s rent, and just when he needed it, a producer reached out with a job opportunity that covered it all.

So, if you’re feeling like it’s all too much, remember, sometimes struggles are actually blessings in disguise.

What struggles have shaped your journey? Let’s share and uplift each other! 

Ever felt like life's challenges are holding you back? Our guest experienced this too until he discovered the powerof transformation. 🌟 

Growing up as the oldest of 12, Les Howard, an author and now started his own coaching business, faced immense responsibilities early on. He thought his childhood was stolen,but it was shaping him for something greater—coaching, speaking, and writing. 

Joining the Marine Corps taught him discipline and resilience. It wasn't easy; his mominitially resisted his enlistment, but he took the leap. 

After serving, he struggled with addiction and searched for his purpose through various jobs. It wasn’t until he pursued education, earning his GED and later a Master's in Social Work, that he discovered was his calling. 

Now, as a coach and author, he realize that every struggle was a steppingstone. Life happens for us, not to us. Embrace your journey, and let’s transform together! 

Ever feel overwhelmed by stress and uncertainty? 🌪️ You’re not alone! Let’s talk about how to rise above it.

In today’s episode of the Dream to Rise podcast, we dive deep with Unyoung Kim, a beacon of hope and resilience. Through her journey, she’s discovered the power of mindfulness and community in overcoming life's hurdles.

Unyong has spent a lifetime seeking wisdom habits and practices, from philosophy to yoga, meditation and quantum healing techniques. She is the author of “Stress Burner Tips for Busy People”.Whether it’s through yoga, meditation, or simple daily practices, Unyoung offers practical tips to help you reduce stress and avoid burnout. Remember, it’s not about avoiding the struggles but learning to thrive despite them.

So, take a moment, breathe, and let’s embrace the journey of rising together!

Ever felt lost in a new city?  Here’s how our guest, Gabriel Concordia, a professional chef, turned a leap of faith into a culinary adventure!

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Moving to Fresno wasn’t just about a job; it was about discovering who he is outside of his family expectations.  Leaving Northern Virginia was tough.  He traded familiarity for uncertainty, and it wasn’t easy.

But this journey has taught him that growth often comes from discomfort.

He found a job with Brigaid, where he serves meals to youth who need them the most.  It is not just about cooking; it’s about building connections and understanding the diverse stories around food.

So yes, he misses his family, but every challenge he faces is an opportunity to grow.

Maybe it’s time to embrace your ownunknowns?

Ever felt stuck in a cycle of negativity? Here’s how I turned my life around after hitting rock bottom.

Listen to the story of Dave Murphy, a father, a published author and podcaster. He uses his podcast andbooks to spread messages of resilience, fatherhood, and second chances.

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Two decades of battling PTSD and alcohol addiction left me at my lowest. A pivotal moment with my daughter pushed me to transform my life.

I lost over 170 lbs. and discovered the power of resilience. Sharing my journey through writing and podcasting has become my passion. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about making an impact.

Each step I take is a reminder of what’s possible when you choose hope over despair. Let’s inspire each other to rise above our challenges.

What’s your story? Let’s connect and uplift one another!

Ever felt life pushing you in a direction you never intended? Here’s how a twist of fate led me to nursing. 

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Life took me from dreams of glassblowing to the heart of nursing, all because of an unexpected turn. 

When I left the military, I had plans for a different career. But just weeks before starting school, everything changed. 

My mom suggested nursing, a field I thought was only for women. Little did I know, this path would teach me more about compassion and resilience than I ever imagined. 

Fast forward 15 years and I'm now a nurse in a correctional facility, learning that each person has a story worth hearing. 

Sometimes life’s detours lead to our true calling. What unexpected turn has shaped your journey? 

Ever feel like you’re just going through the motions? Let me share my wake-up call moment that changed everything.

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After 15 years in corporate, I found myself at a breaking point. A routine doctor's visit revealed high blood pressure and weight gain I hadn’t noticed.

But that day, I made a choice. Instead of letting fear take over, I decided to embrace my journey. I started small—walking a mile a day, adjusting my diet, and finding a community that supported me.

As I lost weight, I also shed toxic relationships and discovered my passion for fitness. It wasn’t just about the physical change; it was about reclaiming my life and sharing my story to inspire others.

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with the right people and watch how your life transforms.

 Let’s rise together!

From heartbreak to hope. 

Charlene Crowley, a volunteer board member of 2Unstoppable, will share with us her story on how she turned her pain into power, inspiring cancer patients a 2Unstoppable through physical activity and community.

I have been told I need to hide my vulnerability to seem strong – but what if true strength is showing your real self?

When I faced a diagnosis that threatened my life, I realized hiding my fears only made things worse.  So, I chose to face it head-on, sharing my story honestly – because real strength isabout vulnerability, not perfection.

It is okay to be scared, to ask for help, to admit you’re not okay.  Our society often teaches men to keep it allin, but that only fuels shame.  Opening up isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s the first step to healing and connection.

Our guest, Dervin Fedalizo, Founder of Artizo LLC, Men’s Pelvic Health Physical Therapis in Northern Virginia, is a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist specializing in men’s pelvic health, performance and full body recovery.

Would you agree that showing your true self empowers others?

"The moment when they say ‘I don’t accept abuse’ — that’s a turning point."

Ever think about how childhood experiences shape their future? 💭

I used to watch kids accept bad behavior because they felt they had no choice. But what if we teach them how to stand up for themselves early on? Saying "Yes, I hear you" and then gently setting boundaries can change everything.

It’s not about control — it’s about teaching kids to protect their own peace.

And guess what? These skills aren’t just for teenagers; they transform relationships at any age.

Listen to Paul Zohav, founder of Marriage and Communication Coaching and a seasoned relationship and communication coach with over 30 years of experience since he began as a domestic abuse counselor in Central Virginia. 

Have you ever seen someone suddenly shift when given the right words? Save this for your next parenting chat or relationship talk. Every “get to” moment starts with language.

What’s one way you can use “seems” today to open up an honest conversation?