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Overcoming Anything episodes

  • Overcoming a Haunted House with D Paul

    Episode 013: Overcoming a Haunted House with D Paul

    What if the darkness you felt wasn’t just paranormal—but energy drawn to your light?

    In this powerful and spine-tingling episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with D Paul, a Disabled U.S. Navy Veteran and Native American Holy Man, who has spent his life walking between two worlds: the physical and the spiritual.

    D Paul shares his journey of confronting poltergeists, demons, and dark entities—forces so powerful they’ve put his own life in danger. From growing up in an abusive home overshadowed by dark energy, to learning how to face fear through faith and understanding, his story reveals what it truly means to battle darkness and stand in the light.

    Rooted in both his Native American heritage and Christian faith, D Paul offers profound insights on energy, protection, and the importance of keeping your spirit strong. His message is not one of fear—but of empowerment, healing, and light.

    D Paul’s life is a living testament to resilience, purpose, and divine service. As a Heyoka, healer, and seer, he’s investigated and cleansed countless haunted homes, helping people release negative attachments, restore peace, and reclaim their power. His mantra:
     💫 “Keep the faith. Keep moving forward.”

    Key Takeaways

    1.     Darkness feeds on fear. Fear amplifies dark energy, but faith and courage dissolve it.

    2.     Energy never dies—it transforms. Negative emotions can linger in spaces until they’re cleared or transmuted through light.

    3.     Everyone can reclaim their power. Protection begins with intention, prayer, and standing firm in your own light.

    Timestamps
    00:00 — Welcome & introduction
    03:15 — D Paul’s journey from Navy veteran to Native American Holy Man
    07:30 — Childhood encounters with darkness and the “woman on the stairs”
    14:00 — Understanding the nature of dark energy vs. fear
    20:10 — The difference between poltergeists, demons, and tricksters
    26:45 — The turning point: realizing fear is fuel for darkness
    33:20 — Overcoming trauma and understanding spiritual purpose
    40:00 — How to protect yourself and your home from negative energies
    48:15 — Spiritual armor: faith, intention, and daily protection rituals
    55:30 — The healing power of light and divine connection
    01:00:00 — D Paul’s books, mission, and message of hope

    Connect with D. Paul
    Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088886720840
    X: @DPaulFleming442

    Books & Resources by D Paul
    • Mysteries at the Windham Inn — Based on true supernatural events, https://a.co/d/7N1O4ME
    • A Date with Suicide — A powerful exploration of veteran trauma and survival, https://a.co/d/f1SbNz4
    • 2,442 Steps to Crazy — A raw memoir of overcoming abuse and darkness, https://a.co/d/0wgjuv2

    Credits
    Host: Anne Vryonides
    Guest: D Paul

    Disclaimer
    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or medical treatment.

    Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need it most.

    ❤️ Anne



    Overcoming a Haunted House, D. Paul Fleming, Overcoming Anything podcast, haunted house stories, poltergeist, energy protection, dark energy, spiritual protection, Native American Holy Man, exorcism stories, paranormal healing, energy clearing, haunted property cleansing, overcoming fear, faith and light, hou

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    39 min
  • Overcoming Incarceration with Walter Lawton

    Episode 012: Overcoming Incarceration with Walter Lawton

    What if prison wasn’t the end — but the wake-up call that changed everything? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Walter Lawton, who spent nine years incarcerated and then rebuilt his life through consistency, faith, and the power of a strong support system. His story is one of redemption, resilience, and the courage to never give up on yourself.

    Walter shares how he turned a life of chaos and hopelessness into one filled with purpose — proving that even after hitting rock bottom, transformation is possible. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Walter found a second chance in Ohio, where he rebuilt his life step by step. From serving nine years in prison to becoming a dedicated worker, husband, and father, his journey reminds us that healing and redemption are within reach for anyone willing to put in the work.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Redemption is real — no matter your past, you can rebuild your life with consistency and support.
    2. Show up daily — credibility and change are built through small, repeated actions over time.
    3. Community is everything — lasting transformation happens when you surround yourself with people who hold you accountable.

    Timestamps

    • 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
     • 03:45 — Growing up in Washington D.C. and moving to Ohio
     • 07:15 — How Walter ended up in prison at 16
     • 11:00 — Surviving incarceration and finding perspective
     • 18:20 — The mindset shift that sparked his transformation
     • 23:50 — Meeting mentor John Graham and finding structure
     • 28:30 — The Citizen Circle and learning how to re-enter society
     • 33:40 — Writing 10 goals and achieving them all
     • 38:15 — Buying his first home after 10 years of steady work
     • 42:00 — Overcoming judgment after incarceration
     • 45:30 — Lessons in listening, humility, and personal growth
     • 48:10 — Advice for rebuilding life after prison
     • 52:00 — Final reflections and message of hope

    Connect with Walter

    • Facebook: @WalterLawton
     • Instagram: @WalterLawton
     • TikTok: @WalterLawton
     • Snapchat: @WalterLawton

    Recommended Resources

    • Citizen Circle Reentry Support Group
     • Transitional Housing Programs like Good Samaritan
     • Goal-setting and accountability mentorship

     Credits

    • Host: Anne Vryonides
    • Guest: Walter Lawton

    Disclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or rehabilitation programs.

    Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so it can reach the people who need it most.


    ❤️ Anne

     

    #OvercomingAnythingPodcast #TransformationAndGrowth #ResilienceStories #MindsetAndMotivation #HealingJourney #LifeAfterPrison #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #PersonalDevelopmentPodcast #OvercomingAdversity #MotivationalPodcast #InspirationDaily #YouCanChange #NeverTooLate #PrisonReform #ReentrySuccess #HopeAndHealing #SelfMasteryAndHealing #TrueStoriesOfResilience #WalterLawtonInterview

     

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    25 min
  • Overcoming Sexual Abuse with Kimberly Barrett

    Episode 011: Overcoming Sexual Abuse with Kimberly Barrett

    What happens when the pain you’ve buried for years finally begins to surface?
    In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Kimberly Barrett, a Psychic Medium, Energy Healer, Intuitive Coach, and Light Leader who courageously shares her journey of overcoming childhood sexual trauma, emotional numbness, and rediscovering her power through surrender, energy medicine, and faith.

    Kimberly opens up about the long path to healing — from repressed memories and emotional shutdown to reclaiming her voice, her body, and her self-worth. Her story is a testament that even in the darkest pain, healing is possible when you have the courage to face it, feel it, and move through it.

    Kimberly Barrett is a Psychic Medium, Energy Healer, Intuitive Coach, Master Teacher, and Light Leader whose mission is to raise the consciousness of the planet and empower humanity to evolve and transform their lives.
    She has facilitated numerous workshops and certifications — including Mediumship Development, Unlocking Your Intuition, Empathic Superpowers, Healing Self-Esteem, Stress Busters, and Grief Education. Kimberly is certified as a Master Blue Star Celestial Energy Practitioner, Komyo Reiki Kai Practitioner, Evidential Medium, and Angel Card Reader.

    Key Takeaways

    1. It’s okay to not be okay — healing starts when you stop pretending and allow yourself to feel what’s real.
    2. You can stand it — when pain feels unbearable, learning to tolerate and release it becomes the key to freedom.
    3. Reclaim your voice and your power — your story isn’t your weakness; it’s the foundation of your strength and purpose.

    Timestamps

    • 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
    • 03:20 — Kimberly’s mantra: “It’s okay to not be okay.”
    • 09:45 — Emotional numbness as a trauma response
    • 17:10 — Repressed memories and the body’s way of revealing truth
    • 25:30 — Healing through Reiki, energy medicine, and mindfulness
    • 33:45 — Surrendering control and asking for help
    • 41:00 — Finding faith and divine guidance in the darkest moments
    • 49:20 — Learning self-forgiveness and releasing shame
    • 56:50 — How to move from victim to survivor to thriver
    • 01:04:00 — Final reflections & resources for trauma healing

    Connect with Kimberly

    • 🌐 sharingloveandlightshow.com
     • 📺 Ethereal TV: The Sharing Love and Light Show
    • 📘 facebook.com/activate777
    • 📘 facebook.com/kimberly.barrett1997
    • 📸 @kimberly_barrett777

    Books & Resources Mentioned

    • Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass & Laura Davis https://a.co/d/iJDegcq
    • The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle https://a.co/d/3S8hxm5
    • Radical Forgiveness by Colin Tipping https://a.co/d/ei1ePgx   
    • A Course in Miracles by Helen Schucman https://a.co/d/f2t78x7
    • Quantum Healing Hypnosis by Dolores Cannon https://a.co/d/54AyIq7

    Credits

    • Host: Anne Vryonides
    • Guest: Kimberly Barrett
     

    Disclaimer

    This episode discusses sensitive topics including sexual trauma and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help and emotional support by calling or texting 988 (U.S.) or visiting 9

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    31 min
  • Overcoming Near-Death Experience with Kathy McDaniel

    Episode 10: Overcoming Near-Death Experience with Kathy McDaniel

    What if dying became the moment you truly learned how to live?

    In this extraordinary episode of Overcoming Anything, host Anne Vryonides sits down with Kathy McDaniel, author of the memoir “Misfit in Hell to Heaven Expat,” to explore one of the most profound experiences imaginable — a distressing near-death experience that transformed her fear into faith and her suffering into purpose.

    In 1999, while dying from lung failure, Kathy was placed on a ventilator and put into a drug-induced coma. During that time, she experienced what she later learned was a Distressing Near-Death Experience (DNDE) — a terrifying journey through darkness and despair that eventually transitioned into an indescribable experience of Heaven’s bliss and unconditional love.

    Her story is not just about survival; it’s about awakening.

     Top 3 Takeaways

    1. Hell Is Not Forever — It’s a Mirror: Distressing near-death experiences are often self-created reflections of fear, guilt, or beliefs carried from life — and healing them begins with love and self-forgiveness.
    2. The Power of “Be Loving and Kind”: Kathy’s simple mantra became her guiding light through darkness. Choosing love and kindness — even in pain — can transform every experience.
    3. Purpose in the Pain: Every struggle carries meaning. The pain you’ve endured may be the very gift that allows you to help others heal.

    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction: Kathy’s near-death experience and story
     02:15 – The illness that led to lung failure
     05:00 – Entering “The Void” and facing a self-created hell
     08:20 – The turning point: remembering God through “Away in a Manger”
     12:00 – Transition to Heaven and the feeling of unconditional love
     17:45 – Returning to Earth and struggling to integrate the experience
     21:00 – The 10-year journey before finding IANDS
     26:30 – Healing through community and sharing her story
     30:45 – What distressing NDEs teach us about God and love
     34:20 – Advice for those afraid of death or suffering alone
     40:00 – Life lessons: empathy, acceptance, and divine purpose
     44:10 – Creating heaven on earth by being loving and kind
     48:00 – Books that guided Kathy’s healing journey
     50:00 – Closing reflections and how to connect with Kathy

    Connect with Kathy McDaniel

    Website: www.misfitinhelltoheavenexpat.com
    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/KathyMcDaniel
    Facebook: facebook.com/KathyMcDaniel.FoxIs
    X (Twitter): @MKMcDaniel3
    YouTube: Watch Here
    Instagram: @kathymcdaniel.foxis

    Books Kathy Recommends

    • Misfit in Hell to Heaven Expat: Lessons from a Dark Near-Death Experience and How to Avoid Hell in the Afterlife — M.K. (Kathy) McDaniel  https://a.co/d/7vaxNg5
    • My Descent into Death — Howard Storm https://a.co/d/fbJAG8P 
    • Dancing Through the Dark — Nancy Evans Bush  https://a.co/d/3Y7m1Bq

    Credits

    Host: Anne Vryonides
    Guest: M.K. (Kathy) McDaniel

    Disclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

    If you enjoyed this episode,

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    26 min
  • Overcoming Manic Depression with Benjamin "Bencasso" Barnes

    Episode 009: Overcoming Manic Depression with Benjamin "Bencasso" Barnes

    In this powerful episode of Overcoming Anything, we sit down with Benjamin Barnes, also known as Bencasso—a musician, artist, author, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder—who has faced the depths of manic depression and psychosis. From losing everything to finding resilience through creativity, community, and faith in his own healing, Benjamin’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.

    Key Takeaways

    1.     Resilience isn’t linear – recovery from manic depression involves setbacks, but persistence creates breakthroughs.

    2.     Creativity is medicine – music, art, and entrepreneurship can be transformative tools for healing and identity rebuilding.

    3.     Community support matters – surrounding yourself with people who uplift and believe in you is essential to overcoming hardship.

    4.     Medication & therapy are strengths, not weaknesses – treatment plays a vital role in stability and long-term recovery.

    Timestamps

    00:00 – Welcome & introduction

    02:40 – What manic psychosis feels like: alternate realities & delusions

    08:25 – The first episode of psychosis and diagnosis at 26

    13:10 – Losing everything: career, relationships, and identity

    20:05 – The turning point: friends and community support

    27:15 – Struggles with addiction and relapse

    33:00 – Finding love, stability, and recovery

    40:20 – Key lessons: medication, persistence, and creativity as healing

    48:55 – Advice for anyone facing psychosis or depression

    53:10 – Upcoming projects & Benjamin’s nonprofit mission


    Connect with Benjamin “Bencasso” Barnes

    ·  Website: benjaminbarnes.com

    ·  Nonprofit: culturescholar.org

    ·  Email: [email protected], [email protected]

    ·  Social Accounts:  https://www.allmylinks.com/bencasso
     

    Books & Resources Benjamin Recommends

    ·  Loosened Associations: Jazz, Autism, Mischief, and Madness by Benjamin Barnes https://a.co/d/fLMe77L

    ·  National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

    ·  Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741

     

    Credits

    ·  Host: Anne Vryonides

    ·  Guest: Benjamin “Bencasso” Barnes


    Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling with mental health, please seek support from a licensed professional. If you are in crisis, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

    Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need it most.

    ❤️ Anne

     

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    21 min
  • Overcoming a Career Transition with Len Ward

    Episode 008: Overcoming Career Transitions with Len Ward

    What happens when the security of corporate America no longer feels aligned with your future? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Len Ward, entrepreneur and founder, who shares his journey of leaving a steady paycheck behind to step into the uncertainty of business ownership.

    From the fear of supporting a young family, to losing his first business during the 2008 housing crisis, to rebuilding with resilience and scaling a successful digital agency, Len’s story is a powerful reminder that courage, action, and self-belief are the foundation of any entrepreneurial journey.

    Len also shares why paying yourself first matters, how to manage imposter syndrome, and why AI-enabled small businesses will be the future.

    Len Ward is the Managing Partner of Commexis, an AI consulting and product development firm helping businesses evolve into AI-native organizations. A former Wall Street VP at Morgan Stanley and Credit Suisse, Len transitioned from finance into entrepreneurship during the dot-com boom, launching an e-commerce business and self-teaching digital growth. He went on to build and scale a full-service marketing firm and today leads a team creating AI-powered marketing engines, intelligent chatbots, and workflow automation tools. 

     

    Key Takeaways

    1. Indecision will kill you- Success comes from taking action quickly and course correcting along the way, rather than staying stuck in fear or hesitation.
    2. Pay yourself first- Even if it’s a small percentage, prioritizing your own paycheck from day one ensures sustainability and prevents the “vanity growth” trap many entrepreneurs fall into.
    3. Failure fuels growth-  Losing a business isn’t the end—it’s the training ground that equips you with the resilience, knowledge, and confidence to build something stronger.

    Timestamps

    00:00 — Welcome & introduction
     03:10 — Len’s mantra: “Indecision will kill you”
     07:00 — Leaving corporate America with a young family
     11:20 — The challenge of paying yourself first
     15:45 — Loneliness and self-reliance in entrepreneurship
     20:00 — The 2008 collapse and losing his first business
     24:30 — Starting again: free work, first clients, and the “unplugged phone” moment
     30:00 — Scaling from solopreneur to 25 employees (and what broke)
     37:00 — Key merger that changed everything
     42:15 — Facing imposter syndrome and believing in yourself
     48:30 — How AI will reshape small business and entrepreneurship
     55:00 — Lessons learned, books that made a difference
     01:02:00 — Where to connect with Len

    Connect with Len Ward

    Website: Commexis.com
    LinkedIn: Len Ward
    Twitter/X: @LenWardNJ

    Books & Resources Len Recommends

    • The E-Myth Revisited — Michael Gerber https://a.co/d/781knp4
    • Purple Cow — Seth Godin https://a.co/d/5RpaepW
    • The Untethered Soul — Michael A. Singer https://a.co/d/75Q2FMR
    • Everyday AI podcast

    Credits

    • Host: Anne Vryonides
    • Guest: Len Ward

     
    DisclaimerDisclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

    Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need it most.

    ❤️ Anne

     

    Send us Fan Mail

    Support the show

    27 min
  • Overcoming Strict Religious Beliefs with Michela Giordano Castro

    Episode 007 — Overcoming Strict Religious Beliefs with Michela Giordano Castro

    What happens when the faith you were raised in no longer feels like home? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Michela Giordano Castro, a licensed clinical social worker and non-religious spirituality coach who bravely shares her journey of leaving fundamentalist Christianity. From grief and anger to finding a new path in spirituality and mental health, Michela’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and learning to love yourself through the process of transformation.

    Michela Giordano Castro, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma-informed therapist, and spirituality coach for women building authentic spirituality beyond religion. In her spirituality coaching, Michela combines trauma and Internal Family Systems therapy expertise with her own transformative experience to guide others in healing from religious trauma, navigating family dynamics, processing doubt, and discovering authentic spirituality beyond traditional doctrines.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Authenticity matters. Leaving a belief system that no longer serves you is not failure—it’s growth.

    2. Feel your feelings. Grieving, anger, and doubt are all part of the healing journey.

    3. Spirituality can be reclaimed. Losing religion doesn’t mean losing connection—new forms of spirituality can enrich life.

    Timestamps

    00:00 — Welcome & introduction
     04:05 — Michela’s mantra and Gandhi’s wisdom
     10:20 — Wrestling with faith and the moment of letting go
     18:45 — Grieving the loss of religion
     26:00 — Turning to mental health and social work as a new path
     35:20 — Lessons from deconstruction and family influences
     44:00 — Reconnecting with spirituality after 10 years
     52:15 — Advice for those questioning their faith
     01:00:00 — Recommended resources and books
     01:05:00 — Where to connect with Michela

    Connect with Michela Giordano Castro:

    Website/Email: [email protected]

    Social: Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube 

    Facebook Group: Unbound Faith: Post-Christianity Spirituality

    Books & Resources Michela Recommends

    • Autobiography of a Yogi — Paramahansa Yogananda https://a.co/d/99gZZVj
    • How to Change Your Mind (Netflix docuseries)
    • Surviving Death (Netflix docuseries)

    Credits

    Host: Anne Vryonides
    Guest: Michela Giordano Castro

    Disclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

    Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need to hear it most. 

    Thank you! 

    ❤️ Anne

     

    Send us Fan Mail

    Support the show

    28 min
  • Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen with Kristen Shea

    EP006: Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen with Kristen Shea

    What does it take to show up authentically in a world that constantly pressures us to hide behind masks? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Kristen Shea, a psychic intuitive, channel, and spiritual mentor who helps women overcome the fear of being seen. Kristen shares her journey of hitting rock bottom, discovering her true identity, and learning to “hold the vision” even when everything seemed impossible. Her story is one of courage, faith, and the transformational power of authentic visibility.

    Kristen Shea is a psychic intuitive, channel, and spiritual business mentor dedicated to helping women break free from the fear of being seen and step into their authentic power. After walking away from a narcissistic dynamic and losing nearly everything, Kristen was guided to share her gifts publicly for the first time. What began as one small act of courage—posting her first channeled message online—unlocked a life of abundance, alignment, and purpose. Today, Kristen empowers others through coaching, spiritual mentorship, and her thriving online community, where women learn to embrace their authentic selves, launch their spiritual businesses, and live in true freedom.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Authentic visibility is magic — showing up as your true self unlocks abundance and freedom.
    2. Your mess is your message — sharing the hardest parts of your story can heal both you and others.
    3. Rock bottom isn’t the end — it can be a sacred launchpad into your highest purpose.

    Timestamps

    • 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
    • 05:10 — The mantra that carried Kristen through her darkest moments: “Hold the vision”
    • 12:45 — Unraveling the deeper meaning of the fear of being seen
    • 22:30 — Hitting rock bottom and being guided to share spiritual gifts online
    • 33:15 — The surprising link between money and visibility
    • 41:50 — Daily practices: EFT tapping, affirmation rants, and channeling guidance
    • 52:20 — Making your purpose bigger than your fear
    • 01:00:00 — Life after fear: abundance, authenticity, and alignment
    • 01:08:00 — Recommended resources & final advice

    Connect with Kristen

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekristenshea/

    • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thekristenshea

    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKristenShea

    Books Kristen Recommends

    • The Sophia Code by Kaia Ra, https://a.co/d/9D41tcQ

    Share this episode with someone who feels afraid to be seen, judged, or misunderstood—because their story, too, can become their sacred launchpad.

    Credits

    • Host: Anne Vryonides
    • Guest: Kristen Shea

    Disclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

    Please follow, download, and rate within 2 days of release to help grow my podcast to reach the people who need to hear it most. 

    Thank you! 

    ❤️ Anne




    #OvercomingAnythingPodcast, #ResilienceStories, #TransformationAndGrowth, #PersonalDevelopmentPodcast, #SelfMasteryAndHealing, #InspirationalStories, #MindsetAndMotivation, #SpiritualAwakening, #EmotionalHealing, #CourageAndConfidence, #FearOfBeingSeen, #AuthenticVisibility, #KristenSheaInterview, #SpiritualBusinessMentor, #RockBottomToFreedom


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    28 min
  • Overcoming Male-Dominated Cultures with Toni Will

    Episode 005: Overcoming Male-Dominated Cultures with Toni Will

    What does it take to thrive in a space where very few women have gone before? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Toni Will, the first female GM in ECHL history and a trailblazing leader in professional hockey. Toni shares her journey of breaking barriers, navigating leadership in male-dominated industries, and embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. Her story is one of courage, authenticity, and the power of redefining success on your own terms.

    Toni Will is a trailblazing leader, speaker, and author dedicated to empowering women to thrive in male-dominated industries and embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. As the first female general manager in the history of the ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings, Toni has built a reputation for breaking barriers, driving growth, and inspiring others through authentic leadership. A sought-after keynote speaker, Toni captivates audiences with her engaging storytelling and practical strategies for navigating leadership challenges, cultivating confidence, and redefining success. She has spoken at conferences across the country, including TEDx, and will release her first book on March 1, 2026. Toni’s work extends beyond sports and business—she’s passionate about sparking conversations around living alcohol-free, challenging societal norms, and empowering individuals to make choices that align with their values. Her podcast, Women In…, showcases inspiring stories from women across industries, fostering connection, mentorship, and growth.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Authenticity wins — Your perceived weaknesses can actually be your greatest strengths in leadership.
    2. Change starts with choice — Embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle gave Toni clarity, resilience, and confidence.
    3. Create your own community — If you can’t find support in your industry, build it for yourself and others.

    Timestamps

    • 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
    • 04:15 — Embracing femininity in male-dominated spaces
    • 10:20 — Breaking barriers in pro hockey leadership
    • 18:00 — Choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle and its ripple effects
    • 27:45 — Toni’s six leadership pillars for thriving in any field
    • 39:10 — Advice for women navigating male-dominated industries
    • 48:00 — Recommended books & resources
    • 53:00 — Where to connect with Toni

    Connect with Toni

    Website:  https://www.toniwill.com/

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

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonildaniels/

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

     

    Toni’s Podcast Women In…

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in/id1745524618

    Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1bq7Oir4efb6F4283akjgh

    YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3KCmFHv1UcB99L2Hi_6MwA

     

    Books Toni Recommends:

    This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, https://a.co/d/hYupOFN

    Money, Power, Respect: The Future of Feminism in Sports by Macaela MacKenzie, https://a.co/d/dXY20Df


    Share this episode with someone navigating a male-dominated culture who needs inspiration, guidance, and proof that they too can succeed.

    Credits

    • Host: Anne Vryonides
    • Guest: Toni Will

    Disclaimer

    The content of this episode is for informational&a

    Send us Fan Mail

    Support the show

    31 min
  • Overcoming a Toxic Relationship with Alisa Gracheva

    Episode 004: Overcoming a Toxic Relationship with Alisa Gracheva

    What does it take to heal after an abusive and toxic relationship? In this powerful episode of Overcoming Anything, licensed psychotherapist Alisa Gracheva shares her raw story of resilience—from moving countries alone at 18, surviving abuse, facing health struggles, and finding the discipline and tools that helped her reclaim her life. This conversation is filled with hope, practical wisdom, and the reminder that you are worthy of so much more.

    About Alisa Gracheva

    Working with trauma is Alisa’s deepest passion. She is dedicated to using both traditional and alternative modalities to help people heal from life’s most painful experiences. Drawing on EMDR, CBT, Logotherapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and spiritual guidance, she helps clients address trauma at its root. Alisa also brings years of experience in sacred plant medicine, sound healing, light therapy, and energy work, blending modern science with spirituality to guide people through grief, loss, life transitions, and personal growth. Her work emphasizes reconnecting with the Higher Self to achieve true fulfillment and peace.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trauma can feel invisible—but it always leaves traces in the body. Healing requires both awareness and active work, often through new disciplines, habits, and tools.
    2. Discipline and consistency are non-negotiable in recovery. Daily rituals, mindset shifts, and boundaries create the foundation for transformation.
    3. You are not alone—and you are not meant to stay in pain. With the right support system, resources, and self-love practices, it is possible to leave toxic cycles and build a life rooted in worthiness and peace.

    Books Alisa Recommends: 

    I Can Do It by Louise Hay   https://a.co/d/6k398tT

    Change Your Thoughts- Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne Dyer https://a.co/d/gVIF93L

    Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza https://a.co/d/ergtMFo

     

    Follow Alisa:

    Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alisa-gracheva-coral-springs-fl/1109186/

    Caring Therapists https://caringtherapistsofbroward.com/staff/alisa-gracheva/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/

     

    Overcoming Anything is Hosted by Anne Vryonides

     

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    27 min

About Overcoming Anything

From the publisher's feed

Real people. Real struggles. Real comebacks.

 

Overcoming Anything is your Google of Hope, Inspiration and Resilience— real life stories with those who’ve…