Doug's inspiring journey highlights overcoming childhood bullying, finding purpose through sports, and serving in the Navy despite a near-drowning experience. After leaving the military in 1984, he battled depression, failed relationships, and two suicide attempts. Seeking direction, he re-enlisted, deployed to Iraq in 2004, survived an ambush and a life-threatening infection, and was later medically retired. Feeling abandoned, he turned to veteran advocacy, mental health awareness, and mentoring through organizations like Toastmasters and the VFW. 

In this episode, Doug emphasizes that suicide is a temporary escape from pain and urges those struggling to seek support, coping strategies, and community. His mission continues through Beacon for Hope, promoting daily acts of kindness and suicide prevention. He shares life lessons on resilience, mental health, and finding purpose through his upcoming book and speaking engagements.

Connect with Doug: 

Linkedin: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasbrinker-inspirationalspeaker/

Beacon 4 Hope LLC Website: 

https://douglasbrinker.com/

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/Beacon4Hope2024

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/Beacon4Hope/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Trish is a retired dentist, a devoted mother of two, and a loving wife. She built a successful practice in Charleston, South Carolina, before life took an unexpected turn. After selling her practice earlier than planned, she and her husband moved to West Virginia, where she was suddenly diagnosed with stage four uterine cancer. What was initially believed to be a terminal prognosis turned into an incredible journey of survival. Through the care of exceptional medical professionals, the unwavering support of her husband, family, and friends, and her own deep spiritual transformation, Trish defied the odds and found healing.

Her journey was not only physical but deeply emotional and spiritual. She describes her recovery as an "undoing"—a release of fear, limiting beliefs, and emotional burdens that had weighed her down. This shift in perspective, combined with both traditional and alternative treatments, played a crucial role in her healing process. Now, Trish embraces each day with gratitude, sharing her story to inspire others facing adversity. She encourages those struggling to find peace within themselves, letting go of what no longer serves them, and embracing the love and support around them. Though she doesn’t dwell on labels like "remission," she is grateful for where she is today—alive, thriving, and filled with purpose.

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Ron Rapaport's journey from a pharmacy career to surviving male breast cancer twice is a powerful story of resilience. After retiring in 2016, he discovered a retracted nipple while on a trip to Spain in late 2018. Initially dismissing it, he later sought medical attention and, in early 2019, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Following surgery and treatment, Ron’s life was changed, and he became a strong advocate for male breast cancer awareness, educating others about this rare condition.

Through his advocacy work with MaleBreastCancerHappens.org, Ron raises awareness about the need for early detection and self-exams, emphasizing the importance of being proactive about one’s health. By sharing his story and challenging the stigma around male breast cancer, Ron has become a voice for others facing the disease, inspiring men to take charge of their health and seek support when needed.

Connect with Ron:

Podcast Website:    https://itsawrapwithrap.com

Podcast Email:        [email protected]

Podcast YouTube channel:    ITS A WRAP WITH RAP-THE PODCAST UNCUT

Twitter (X)         @wrapper130

IG                  ITSAWRAPWITHRAPPODCAST

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition’s mission is to establish and support a local system of care that optimizes the health of moms, babies, and their families living in Indian River County.

In today's conversation with Megan McFall, CEO of Indian River County Healthy Start, we unpack the staggering statistics of infant mortality in our community and explore the Fetal and Infant Mortality Review process.  By analyzing mortality cases, we uncover systemic issues, and our discussion reveals how identifying care gaps can lead to preventative measures that protect the most vulnerable.
 
 Along the way, we confront the emotional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, especially regarding fetal demises.
 
 We also discuss the need for preconception and interconception care, recognizing the health challenges many women face before pregnancy.
 
 Megan shares Healthy Start's initiatives, such as trauma-informed care and implicit bias training, empowering caregivers with essential tools.

Contact: Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition
1555 Indian River Blvd, Suite B241 Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 563-9118
[email protected]
https://www.irchealthystartcoalition.org/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

In this episode, Hayley shares the raw emotions of her pregnancy, recounting moments of boundless anticipation shattered by unforeseen complications. Her journey crescendos with a supportive delivery, followed by the fleeting joy of bringing her son, Lincoln, home. Yet, the bliss of those first days is cruelly interrupted by sudden medical emergencies, casting a shadow over what should have been a time of pure happiness. 

The anguish of losing Lincoln after just eight days is a soul-crushing blow that leaves an indelible mark. Yet, out of this profound heartbreak, Hayley rises with extraordinary strength, transforming her pain into a powerful mission to honor Lincoln’s memory. She channels her grief into organizing pediatric unit drives and bravely advocates for open conversations about loss. Hayley’s story is a testament to the human spirit, inspiring others to find light and purpose in the darkest of times.

Guests love hearing how their story impacted you! 🎧 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and mention their name!

Connect with Hayley:
Email:
[email protected]
Instagram: 
@lovefrom.lincoln 

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Edit B Kiss - Holistic Therapist, Success Habit Coach

After years of navigating the intense world of petroleum engineering, Edit B. Kiss found herself at a crossroads. She desired more than just a career—a life of balance, more family time, and freedom.  

Edit shares her healing journey of accidentally discovering Source Memory Healing and other natural modalities. 

Today, we  learn about various modalities such as Reiki and Sekhem, and more.  I share my experience trying a new healing modality - Source Memory Healing.
 
 Through compelling stories and personal reflections, we'll reveal how releasing emotional blockages can dramatically shift your life, leading to greater peace, fewer triggers, and more profound emotional resilience. By tapping into our energy and releasing past wounds, we can unlock the door to a life filled with purpose and possibility. This is not just about healing; it's about creating a life that radiates positivity and flow from the inside out. 

Tune in for a conversation to inspire you to step into your healing, growth, and transformation journey!

My testimony: After completing Source Memory Healing, I feel a profound sense of peace and clarity that I never thought possible. The emotional burdens I had carried for years seem to have lifted, and I now see my past through a lens of understanding rather than pain. The process helped me reconnect with the essence of who I truly am, free from the old wounds that once defined me. I am more present, grounded, and ready to embrace my future openly.

Connect with Edit B Kiss:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/bkissedit/?checkpoint_src=any

YouTube with meditation playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/@MagicalKarmaPriestess

Free masterclass:
https://elevate.editbkiss.com/5-series-masterclass

Book on Amazon:
https://a.co/d/2kNChjA

Join my Elevate 12-month program (50% off till 31st of December with coupon code CHRISTMAS2024) and receive Elemental Light Healer training for free: 

https://elevate.editbkiss.com/elevategroupprogram

Become a Karma Healing Facilitator:

https://elevate.editbkiss.com/proxy/request/380718be7fce4f593ad27b8c456482d05035f

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

"I feel like by the time we reach adulthood, there's so much chance to rewrite your story, to flip the piece, to do a little bit better, to improve yourself a little bit, and each day and each hour and each moment just takes a choice to make that little piece a little brighter." ~ Molly

Can visible scars tell a story of resilience and hope? Join us as Molly, an inspiring wife, stepmother, and new mom to a thriving premature baby, opens up about her incredible journey.  Her candid insights into overcoming personal battles with mental health and self-harm provide a powerful testament to her strength and courage.

Molly reflects on the emotional toll of leaving gymnastics, her isolation in middle school, and the challenges of navigating life between divorced parents with differing approaches.

Her move to Minnesota marked a fresh start, helping her rebuild her life through therapeutic programs like meditation and cognitive behavioral therapy. Molly’s journey is a testament to resilience and growth, showing how embracing life's challenges can lead to transformation.

Please tune in to be inspired by Molly's unwavering strength and insights on embracing life's challenges.

Help for Self-Harm | Text CONNECT to 741741 for support

Connect with Molly:
Instagram: @royalhorizonvisuals
Website: https://royalhorizonvisuals.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mollysyring

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

In this heartfelt episode, Yvonne, founder of the Britney Lee Foundation, opens up about the profound loss of her daughter Britney, who tragically passed in a car accident at just 17.

Britney, a compassionate and wise young woman, inspired those around her with a spirit as bright as a sunflower. Though her sudden death left an irreplaceable void, Yvonne turned her grief into action by founding the Britney Lee Foundation to honor Britney's legacy and spark change. Through initiatives like the Lee’s Lucky Duck Race and partnerships with local nonprofits, Yvonne advocates for safer roads and offers a space for healing and community support.

As Britney’s motto, #LIVEFEARLESSLEE lives on, Yvonne shares her journey of mourning, navigating grief with her husband, and finding strength in Britney’s memory. This episode is a tribute to love, resilience, and the lasting impact of a life lived fearlessly.

As featured in the episode:
Britney Lee Foundation - https://britneylee.org/
Graceway Village - https://gracewayvillage.com/
Grace Packs - https://gracepacks.org/
St Lucie PAL program - https://pslpal.com/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

After the devastating loss of her daughter Maddisyn Colleen to a shallow water blackout, Michelle opens up about her journey through grief and healing. In this deeply emotional conversation, Michelle shares the wisdom and kindness Maddi left behind, and how her untimely death became a catalyst for Michelle’s personal growth.

Candidly recounting the emotional turmoil of guilt and broken promises, Michelle reflects on her path through PTSD and the transformative power of community and creative expression. 

From ketamine therapy to meditation, Michelle explores unconventional methods of healing while building a community that supports those facing similar losses. Join us as we honor Maddisyn’s life, discover the lessons Michelle learned, and find hope in the darkest of times.

Her book, "Please Don't Say That Sh*t," offers a poignant and practical guide for those struggling with unhelpful comments in grief, providing insight into the healing process and the importance of a supportive network.

If you're in need of immediate support or help with thoughts of self-harm, please reach out to someone you trust or contact a mental health professional. If you're experiencing a crisis, I encourage you to call a suicide prevention hotline, such as:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988

You don’t have to go through this alone—help is available, and reaching out is a brave first step.

Contact Michelle: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellecbutler11

To order "Please don't say that Sh*t!":
https://www.amazon.com/Please-Dont-Say-That-Sh-ebook/dp/B0CLL1DJXV/ref=sr_1_1crid=19R94WI81LAKP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RV8mOSMjcI0aKHqfj71ZqtMW_nP6NhIMI2bJCIQxEoWDKNvdISe5wMi8MyPGwrMjGKVdoXe97EUzLVA5Va-VtJBZ9xyBMhFrA2XWouFVmUU.BOYsXs7xl89u7LgR-o7SuH2UJo-gcpW_Q9SJ-0fxw7w&dib_tag=se&keywords=please+dont+say+that+sh*t&qid=1732303517&sprefix=please+dont+say+that+sh+t%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-1

To order "Befriending my Grief Monster":
https://www.amazon.com/Befriending-My-Grief-Monster-Navigating/dp/B0CVLMN4TL/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

To attend a healing session at the Center for Spiritual Care in Vero Beach, FL:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/CenterForSpiritualCare/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

In this deeply moving episode of the I Need Blue podcast, Carolyn, the inspiring founder of Ocean Sands Wellness, shares her extraordinary journey through unimaginable loss and personal challenges.

After the tragic loss of her son, enduring a difficult divorce, facing the emotions of her brothers suicide, and battling breast cancer, Carolyn embarked on a path of unexpected spiritual awakening.

Through her experiences, she uncovered six key influences of stress and now channels her insights into a unique blend of healing practices, including cranial sacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, coaching, and Reiki.

Carolyn's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative strength we all have within.

Connect with Carolyn:
Website: www.oceansandswellness.com
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Oceansandswellness/
Business: 321-389-9547
Carolyn's recommended reading list for Personal & Spiritual Growth can be found on https://ineedblue.net/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website: https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews

Purchase  my book: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/



The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show