Intrepid Storytelling

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Laurie Thibert to explore international adoption, intuitive guidance, and the true cost of human connection.

Laurie Thibert traveled to Ghana to build water wells, completely unaware that the trip would upend her carefully planned corporate life. When a profound inner voice told her she had just met her son at a local children's home, Laurie faced a grueling, years-long international adoption process as a single woman. She navigated systemic barriers, the sudden collapse of her startup career, and intense financial impact just to bring him home. Together, Laurie and Deanna explore the raw realities of acting on deep intuition, building chosen families out of shattered circumstances, and finding resilience when every safety net disappears.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling

05:40 Laurie Thibert: A Journey Through Relationships

11:50 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics

18:31 Navigating Life's Challenges and Career Transitions

24:51 The Importance of Relationships in Business

30:04 Lessons from Youth and Personal Growth

32:48 Finding Hope in Tough Times

34:16 Navigating Relationships and Sacrifices

36:31 Core Values and Self-Awareness

40:44 The Journey of Sobriety

44:02 Clarity and Boundaries in Life Choices

52:09 The Power of Connection and Community

56:57 A Life-Changing Trip to Ghana

01:05:31 Navigating Personal and Professional Alignments

01:11:11 Building Relationships Through Challenges

01:17:08 The Power of Connection and Community

01:23:03 Embracing Life's Uncertainties and Growth

01:30:14 Looking Forward: The Journey Ahead

Lauries's Webste: www.AlignedInsightsMatter.com

The CATR Theory™ book – Amazon, Kindle, and Audible (read by the author)

BUY THE BOOK: https://amzn.to/4g2w6Hj

The CATR Theory™ Book Club Guide & Personal Workbook

BUY THE WORKBOOK: www.CATRYourRelationships.com

Between Us Card Game: www.BuiltByOT.com

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story:

Email us at [email protected]

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #LaurieThibert #InternationalAdoption #Intuition #Resilience #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Nancy Kohne to explore narcissistic abuse, surviving childhood trauma, and protecting your family from a predator.

Nancy Kohne grew up acting as the peacemaker in a volatile, alcoholic household, which conditioned her to ignore red flags and try to save broken men. This vulnerability made her the perfect target for a manipulative narcissist who infiltrated her life and isolated her under the guise of being the ideal partner. Her harrowing reality unraveled when her teenage daughter revealed a decade of hidden abuse at the hands of Nancy's husband. Escaping the marriage and fighting a flawed legal system, Nancy ultimately reclaimed her voice by writing her memoir, "Shut Up and Smile," turning her family's devastating trauma into a story of resilience and survival.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling

01:00 Nancy Coney's Journey of Resilience

02:44 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics

08:12 Transitioning into Adulthood and Motherhood

10:37 Becoming a Single Mother

15:05 Navigating New Relationships

20:51 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships

24:06 The Impact on Children and Family Dynamics

27:14 The Nightmare Unfolds

30:57 Facing the Truth

34:44 The Aftermath of Abuse

39:43 Finding Strength in Adversity

46:48 Writing for Healing

50:47 A Message of Resilience

Connect with Nancy:

Website: https://www.shutupandsmile.com/

Buy the book:

Shut Up And Smile: https://amzn.to/4pj6GJQ

Listen to the Podcast:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-and-smile/id1714190108

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3K09WnWTolz07LI8nOSjpC?si=8dd3f9d0ac4d416f

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story:

Email us at [email protected]

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #NancyKohne #NarcissisticAbuse #SurvivingTrauma #ProtectingChildren #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ginine Emily Smith to explore surviving extreme trauma, escaping a serial killer, and the raw reality of living a double life.

Ginine Emily Smith lived a profoundly fragmented life, projecting corporate success and musical talent on the outside while secretly battling crippling grief, cocaine addiction, and systemic abuse. Following the sudden and tragic death of her father, Smith was thrust into a desperate survival mode that eventually placed her in the direct crosshairs of an active serial killer. By confronting her darkest realities and experiencing a profound near-death encounter where she flatlined, she ultimately learned to integrate her fractured identities and step out of the shadows. Now, she uses the harrowing truth of her past to empower other women to leave toxic environments and reclaim their voices without shame.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling

02:46 The Power of Sharing Stories

05:56 Janine's Early Life and Family Dynamics

09:11 The Impact of Loss and Grief

12:02 Living in Survival Mode

14:56 A Life-Changing Encounter

18:13 Finding Faith and Recovery

21:06 The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

23:50 The Ripple Effect of Gratitude

27:03 The Importance of Vulnerability in Storytelling

29:54 Integration and Transformation

34:08 The Power of Storytelling

39:54 Embracing Authenticity and Connection

47:01 Women Supporting Women

53:30 Letting Go of Toxic Relationships

01:00:16 The Ripple Effect of Sharing Stories

Connect with Ginine:

Be a Part of the Ripple Effect: https://go.heartsinsync.live/legacy

Listen to her podcast:

Rise & Roar with the Badass Lioness: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-roar-with-the-badass-lioness/id1843974560

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

 

Submit Your Story:

Email us at [email protected]

 

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #GinineEmilySmith #SurvivingTrauma #AddictionRecovery #HealingJourney #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Brittney Lorenz to explore trauma-induced psychosis, surviving sexual assault, and the criminalization of mental illness.

 

Brittney Lorenz experienced a rapid descent into homelessness during the pandemic, culminating in multiple devastating physical and sexual assaults. The severe trauma triggered a months-long state of psychosis, leading to her wrongful arrest and incarceration rather than receiving medical care. While trapped in solitary confinement battling severe delusions, Brittney was forced to navigate a broken legal system completely unequipped to handle mental health crises. Today, she advocates for profound systemic reform, urging for mental health professionals to work alongside law enforcement to prevent further tragedies.

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling

01:20 Brittany's Journey Begins

04:52 Early Life and Military Experience

06:44 The Desire for Reform in Mental Health

07:10 The First Encounter with Violence

11:07 The Aftermath of Trauma

16:12 The Second Encounter and Its Impact

19:15 The Struggles with Mental Health in the System

26:37 Life in Jail and the Struggle for Sanity

28:16 Isolation and Trust Issues

30:54 The Power of the Mind

32:47 Reality vs. Delusion

35:21 Facing the Consequences

39:41 Advocating for Oneself

40:33 Mental Health Court Experience

43:19 Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom

46:14 The Need for Systemic Change

49:51 Personal Stories of Resilience

54:33 A Call for Compassion and Reform

 

Connect with Brittney:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittney.lorenz.2025

 

Support Brittney's Mission:

Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Brittney-Lorenz-1

 

Buy the book:

When Cops Try To Play Counselor: https://amzn.to/4aAeIrK

 

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

 

Submit Your Story:

Email us at [email protected]

 

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

 

#IntrepidStorytelling #BrittneyLorenz #MentalHealthReform #TraumaSurvivor #PrisonReform #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ted Novak to explore leaving Mormonism, biblical contradictions, and finding life after religion.

Ted Novak spent over five decades as a devout member, Elder's Quorum president, and seminary teacher in the Mormon church, completely trusting the foundations of his faith. When undeniable historical evidence regarding the Book of Abraham and the church's deeply racist early doctrines surfaced, his worldview collapsed. Confronting the harsh reality of Joseph Smith's fabrications and later biblical contradictions, Ted navigated the painful process of deconstructing his lifelong beliefs. Ultimately, he found true freedom, a secular moral framework, and a profound health transformation outside the confines of organized religion.

Connect with Ted:

Website: https://tedshealthclub.com/

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story: Email us at [email protected]

 

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #TedNovak #ExMormon #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis to explore the Ridglan Farms beagle rescue, the harsh realities of animal testing, and standing against state suppression.

Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis channeled the survival spirit of her ancestors into a lifelong fight for the voiceless. Confronting the realities of testing facilities, she and fellow activists faced tear gas and rubber bullets while attempting to rescue beagles specifically bred for their docile nature. The conversation uncovers the systemic protection granted to the animal testing industry and the intense physical and legal hurdles activists endure. Despite witnessing immense suffering and facing aggressive opposition, Alexandria’s journey highlights the profound resilience required to demand justice for vulnerable creatures.

Connect with Alexandria:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/keating-sofiakis.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandriakeatingsofiakis?igsh=cGR0Z3J1bng1b2pp

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexandriaKeating-Sofiakis

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Pbsgj2D3F/

Website: https://www.alexandriasofiakis.com/

Get Involved:

https://www.directactioneverywhere.com/

Buy Cruelty-Free:

https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/list-of-cruelty-free-brands/

Buy Cruelty-Free on Amazon:

https://amzn.to/4aA6tvM

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story:

Email us at [email protected]

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #AlexandriaKeatingSofiakis #AnimalRights #BeagleRescue #AnimalTesting #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Allison Fine to explore surviving severe domestic violence, navigating methamphetamine-induced psychosis, and the systemic failures of mental health crisis intervention.

Allison Fine dedicated her life to community advocacy and social services, only to face an unimaginable test when her husband secretly spiraled into a methamphetamine-fueled psychotic break. During a desperate attempt to call emergency psychiatric services for help, Allison was brutally stabbed nine times by the man she loved while actively on the phone with crisis responders. Her harrowing fight to survive exposed the glaring inadequacies of emergency mental health interventions and the lack of immediate resources for families dealing with severe mental illness. Today, she navigates the lasting physical and emotional trauma of that near-fatal betrayal through unapologetic community activism and stand-up comedy.

Allison's Website: https://dot.cards/allirealfunnyaf

Follow Allison on her social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonfine2378

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allirealfunnyaf/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@allirealfunnyaf

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story: Email us at [email protected]

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e

#IntrepidStorytelling #AllisonFine #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #MentalHealthCrisis #TraumaHealing #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Kevin P. Henry to explore surviving childhood trauma, true crime family secrets, and systemic racism.

Kevin grew up believing a fabricated tragedy designed to shield him from the horrific truth that his half-siblings were murdered by their step-father, who set their house on fire to cover up the crime. Uncovering this dark family secret became the catalyst for his lifelong career confronting the most predatory behaviors of human nature, including human trafficking, severe child abuse, and financial devastation. This conversation rigorously examines the agonizing psychological toll of navigating society's ugliest realities, the dangerous ignorance fueled by living in isolated societal "bubbles," and the absolute necessity of forcing uncomfortable dialogues to dismantle generational bias.

Chapters:

00:00 The Impact of Childhood Trauma

09:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose

19:45 Navigating Conversations on Race and Inclusion

29:46 The Challenges of DEI Work and Humanity's Dark Side

31:39 Understanding Historical Context and Personal Triggers

34:18 The Evolution of Racial Terminology

37:29 The Importance of Identity and Cultural Understanding

39:31 Navigating Stereotypes and Lived Experiences

45:07 Debunking Misconceptions about DEI

49:17 Equity vs. Equality in Opportunities

53:01 The Value of Lived Experience in Hiring

56:09 The Role of Diversity in Community Engagement

01:00:19 Politics and Its Impact on Business and Community

01:04:03 Understanding DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

01:11:17 The Importance of Education in Addressing Racism

01:20:13 The Relevance of Black Lives Matter Today

01:28:44 Empowering the Next Generation for Change

Kevin's Podcast: https://allthewayauthentic.podbean.com/

Kevin's Website: https://kevinphenry.com/

Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

Submit Your Story: Email us at [email protected]

Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:

#IntrepidStorytelling #KevinPHenry #ChildhoodTrauma #SystemicBias #TrueCrimeFamily #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #SWU #documentary

How do you keep living when the person you trusted to co-parent your child turns out to be a monster hiding in plain sight?

Ruvyn grew up isolated in a strict Jehovah's Witness household in rural Idaho, surrounded by poverty and abusive stepfathers. Desperate for an escape, she moved out as a teenager, eventually having a daughter and trying to build a normal life. But when her daughter’s biological father proved increasingly negligent, forcing their child to live in squalor and hoard-like conditions, Ruvyn had to fight for sole custody while working three jobs.

Just as life seemed to be stabilizing, a single message shattered her world: her ex had been arrested and sentenced to 25 years in prison for unthinkable crimes against a vulnerable child. In this raw, heartbreaking, and fiercely inspiring episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Ruvyn opens up about surviving profound betrayal, battling severe depression and OCD, finding her voice on TikTok to fight for legal protection, and the relentless courage it takes to break cycles of trauma and protect your child at all costs.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey of Hope and Transformation

02:46 Sharing Stories for Change

05:32 Growing Up in a Sheltered Environment

10:00 Understanding Relationships and Boundaries

12:52 Adolescence and the Quest for Independence

16:29 Navigating Early Parenthood

20:39 The Struggles of Co-Parenting

24:23 Seeking Stability and Support

29:03 Legal Battles and Custody Challenges

35:27 Finding a New Family Dynamic

38:16 Facing Betrayal and Heartbreak

41:50 Finding Inner Strength

44:41 Navigating Mental Health Challenges

52:36 The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health

58:16 Sharing My Story and Finding Community

01:03:06 Legal Battles and Personal Growth

01:10:12 Empowerment Through Storytelling

 

SUPPORT RUVYN:

GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/53ca7034b

FOLLOW RUVYN:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/alchemy_with_rue/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alchemy_with_rue

Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music

Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]

#IntrepidStorytelling #RuvynWindsor #SurvivorStory #TrueCrimePodcast #TraumaHealing #SingleMotherhood #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #FacebookWatch

How do you build a life of service and compassion when your own childhood was defined by poverty, severe abuse, and the harsh realities of the streets?

In this raw and unflinching episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell sits down with veteran, first responder, and author Tony Charity. Tony opens up about his harrowing journey growing up in the New York City projects during the 1970s and 80s, where he survived severe physical abuse at home and navigated intense racial violence in his neighborhood. From risking his life to stand down a ruthless pimp to defend a classmate's sister, to facing blatant racism in the military and deep within his own political party, Tony's path has been anything but easy.

Instead of letting the darkness consume him, Tony channeled his pain into a life dedicated to saving others. He shares his deep passion for his family's genealogy tracing his roots back to a freed slave in 1698, and explains how surviving a world without heroes inspired him to become one for others as a first responder and community volunteer.

Chapters:

00:00 From War Zones to Healing Hearts

02:49 The Power of Storytelling

06:09 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics

09:01 Chivalry and Respect in Modern Times

11:47 Navigating Identity and Politics

15:11 Experiences of Race and Community

17:58 Resilience Through Adversity

20:54 The Journey to Washington and Beyond

32:23 Racial Dynamics in Education

35:16 Navigating Childhood Challenges

39:09 The Harsh Realities of Urban Life

47:55 Military Life and Its Challenges

01:00:05 Interracial Relationships and Societal Perceptions

01:05:09 Confrontation and Racism in Everyday Life

01:07:03 Journey to Seattle: A New Beginning

01:09:29 Tracing Ancestry: The Charity Clan

01:12:23 The Green Book: A Family Legacy

01:15:49 The Evolution of Poetry: From Personal to Historical

01:22:31 Career Path: From IT to Volunteerism

01:29:45 Volunteering: Making a Difference in the Community

01:35:30 Life Lessons: Seeing and Understanding Others

CONNECT WITH TONY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TonyWCharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonycharity/

 

Buy SWEET DESTRUCTION BOOK: https://amzn.to/4yj6X3z

Buy the GREEN BOOK: https://amzn.to/4xXtZgd

Order the AUDIO CD: [email protected]

Volunteer with Red Crosee: https://www.redcross.org/

Volunteer with animals: https://wasart.org/

Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling

🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music

Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]

#IntrepidStorytelling #TonyCharity #TrueStory #SurvivorStory #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast