When life throws unimaginable challenges—raising four kids, one with special needs, and then losing your husband to cancer—what comes next?

For author and advocate Julie Barth, the answer was purpose.

In this moving episode, Julie shares her journey from family chaos to crisis and ultimately to the creation of CJB Outreach, a nonprofit named for her late husband, Colin James Barth. The organization supports women-led households in crisis, offering assistance before families lose everything. Julie also discusses her books (Notes from a Blackberry and the upcoming From Blackberries to Thorns), and how her daughter Tatum, born with primordial dwarfism, found her voice through art—with proceeds now benefiting the nonprofit.

A beautiful conversation about love, legacy, motherhood, and resilience.

🎧 You Will Learn:

• How Julie turned profound grief into purposeful giving.
• Why some families in crisis need help before they lose everything.
• How one daughter’s art became a family movement for healing and hope.

🔗 Resources + Links:

• Julie’s Website + Books + Outreach: www.juliebarthauthor.net
• Nonprofit: CJB Outreach (via her site)
• Tatum’s Art Business: Hope for Tayt

Book (Audio + Print): Notes from a Blackberry  

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

Dr. Tolia discusses the challenges of transitioning from a structured medical career to the creative freedom of art, how she merges her passion with purpose by supporting charities, and the therapeutic benefits of art for the brain.
You Will Learn:
1. How Dr. Tolia transitioned from medicine to art and found new meaning in life.
2. The connection between art, neuroscience, and mental health.
3. Why prioritizing creativity can strengthen resilience and improve well-being.


Connect with Dr. Vasu Tolia:

Grab your brain relaxation freebie HERE 
• Website: www.vasutolia.art
• Newsletter Signup: Stay updated on her art releases, shows, and competitions.
Connect with Lizbeth Meredith:
• Website: www.lameredith.com
• Podcast Updates & Contact: Join the mailing list or connect via the contact form.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with others who might be inspired by Dr. Tolia’s story.

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

In this heartfelt episode of Persistence U with Lizbeth, Emily Moon, a therapist and high-conflict divorce specialist, shares her personal and professional journey of resilience. From navigating her own challenges to helping families and individuals redefine their identities after loss or crisis, Emily provides actionable insights on how to rebuild your life with grace and purpose.

Emily discusses how embracing gratitude, exploring new experiences, and learning to let go can help anyone facing major life transitions. Whether you’re navigating a divorce, recovering from a loss, or simply seeking clarity in a new chapter of life, her wisdom is sure to inspire.

You Will Learn:

1. How to rediscover yourself: Why exploring your likes and dislikes can help you rebuild your identity after a crisis.
2. The role of gratitude in resilience: How practicing gratitude, even during tough times, shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
3. Navigating relationships post-divorce: Tips on fostering healthy boundaries and supporting children during high-conflict separations.

For More on High Conflict Divorce Info, check out episode 41 with Liz Merrill HERE

Connect with Emily Moon:

• Website: EmilyMoon.life (divorce support and resilience resources)

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

Retired firefighter and union leader Rich Cheatham's life was forever changed by tragedy, resilience, and redemption.

 

After the heartbreaking murder of his son and a life-altering injury, Rick faced immense challenges that tested his faith, resolve, and purpose.

Rick shares how he overcame a downward spiral of anger, grief, and depression, using his AIM framework—Awareness, Intention, and Mindset—to regain control and rebuild his life. Today, Rick is thriving as a coach, speaker, and advocate, helping others overcome addiction, trauma, and loss. His story is a testament to the power of choice, faith, and community.

You Will Learn:

1. How to shift your mindset from fear and doubt to faith and empowerment.
2. The transformative impact of forgiveness on healing and growth.
3. Why the support of community can be a lifeline during the toughest times.

Rick’s resilience and wisdom offer powerful lessons for anyone looking to turn their challenges into stepping stones for a meaningful life.

Connect with Rick Cheatham:

• Website: www.rickcheatham.com
• Coaching and Speaking: Visit his website to learn more about his work as a transformational coach and motivational speaker.

Connect with Lizbeth Meredith:

• Website: www.lameredith.com
• Podcast Updates & Contact: Join the mailing list or connect via the contact form.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with friends who might find Rick’s story inspiring.

Are you a woman who used solo travel to increase your resilience or heal after a challenging season after the age of 40? Consider submitting an essay to the forthcoming anthology. Details HERE!

 

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

In this uplifting episode of Persistence U with Lizbeth, Dominiece Clifton shares how she rebuilt her life from one of its most challenging periods. Amid the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, financial loss, and a crumbling marriage, Dominiece found solace and transformation in a 90-day challenge that focused on healing her mind, body, and spirit.Dominiece, a clarity coach and podcast host of The School of Healing, discusses how meditation, intentional movement, and mindful living helped her uncover the root of her struggles, from childhood trauma to limiting beliefs. Her journey demonstrates how persistence and intentionality can lead to profound personal and professional transformation.You Will Learn:How to reset during challenging times: Discover how Dominiece used a 90-day challenge to gain clarity and rebuild her life.The importance of addressing root causes: Learn why digging into underlying beliefs and patterns is essential for sustainable change.Practical steps for transformation: Gain insights into creating a consistent practice for mind, body, and spirit healing.Connect with Dominiece Clifton:Website: domrclifton.comPodcast: The School of HealingEntrepreneurial Clarity Quiz: Find it on her homepage!If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share it with a friend. Let’s spread the power of persistence and healing!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

In today's bonus episode, we welcome Gina Economopoulos, author of Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk. Gina shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming physical disabilities, grief, and spiritual searching, which ultimately led her to discover her life’s purpose as an author and an end-of-life doula.Gina opens up about the challenges of growing up in a family of able-bodied siblings, the pivotal loss of her mother, and her path to finding peace, love, and service after years of searching. Her remarkable story of resilience, spirituality, and self-discovery is one that will resonate with anyone striving to find meaning in difficult times.You Will Learn:How grief and loss can spark profound personal transformation.The importance of self-discovery in finding peace and purpose.What it means to be an end-of-life doula and provide comfort in someone’s final moments.Gina’s heartfelt journey is a reminder that life’s challenges, while painful, often lead to growth and unexpected opportunities for service.Connect with Gina Economopoulos:Book: Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk (Available on Amazon)Website: www.ginaecon.comConnect with Lizbeth Meredith:Website: www.lameredith.comPodcast Updates & Contact: Visit the website to join the mailing list or connect via the contact form.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, or share it with someone who could use a little inspiration. Your support helps us bring more stories of persistence and resilience to listeners like you!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

Today, we dive into the fascinating journey of Sandra Schnakenburg, author of The Housekeeper’s Secret: A Memoir. Sandra shares how a deathbed promise to her family’s housekeeper led her on a years-long investigation filled with unexpected twists, profound discoveries, and the ultimate challenge of uncovering hidden truths while writing a deeply personal memoir.Sandra reveals the process of uncovering Lee Mottoyer’s mysterious past, including navigating false starts, life-altering surprises, and even spiritual interventions. With candor and grace, Sandra describes how writing this memoir not only fulfilled a promise but also became a powerful avenue for healing and growth.You Will Learn:The challenges of writing someone else’s story while integrating your own journey.How unexpected discoveries can shape and enrich the writing process.The importance of trusting the timing and process of creative projects.Sandra’s story is a testament to resilience, the healing power of storytelling, and the deep connections that shape our lives.Connect with Sandra Schnakenburg:Website: www.sandraschnakenburg.comBook: The Housekeeper’s Secret: A Memoir (Available wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, and more)Connect with Lizbeth Meredith:Website: www.lameredith.comBooks for order wherever books are sold: Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped DaughtersGrounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges into SuperpowersTilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a TimePodcast Updates & Contact: Join the mailing list or connect via the contact form.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with friends who need some inspiration. Your support makes all the difference!Want to connect on Facebook? https://www.facebook.com/lizbethmeredithfan/Find me at LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizbeth-meredith-a7026849/Want to be a Patron? For less than a coffee, sign up at patreon.com/lizbethmeredith

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

Dr. Nancy Locklin was already an author, professor, and specialist in pre-modern Europe before she dug in to a series of unsolved murders that occurred in Tennessee a century ago. A professor at Maryville College in Tennessee, Dr. Locklin shares the incredible journey behind her collaborative project exploring the unsolved case of the Night Marauder, a serial killer who terrorized East Tennessee in the 1920s.From engaging her students in deep research to uncovering long-forgotten community stories, Dr. Locklin's work sheds light on how the absence of modern conveniences like air conditioning, internet, and advanced forensics shaped life—and crime—in early 20th-century Appalachia.(Learn more about her work and connect at TheNightMarauderProject.com/Dr. Locklin also delves into her broader academic journey, including her work on an 18th-century French murder trial, and how her training in historical violence informed her sensitivity to survivor stories. Through collaboration with students, local genealogists, and archivists, her Night Marauder project has gained attention, evolving into a forthcoming book set for release in 2026.You Will Learn:Engaged Learning Brings History to Life: Dr. Laughlin empowered her students to lead research efforts, building not only their academic skills but also their connection to local history.Survivor-Centric Storytelling Matters: Whether exploring 18th-century France or 1920s Tennessee, focusing on the humanity of victims fosters empathy and responsibility in research.Community Partnerships Create Impact: Collaboration with local libraries, genealogists, and media turned the Night Marauder project into a community-wide effort.

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

In this powerful episode of Persistence U with Lizbeth, we are honored to share the incredible story of Dr. Fidele Sebahizi a massacre survivor from Congo who overcame unimaginable odds to create a life of purpose and service. Dr. Fidele shares his journey from surviving a brutal attack in a United Nations refugee camp to becoming a police officer, earning a Ph.D., and inspiring others through his memoir, Creating a Life from Ashes.You Will Learn:• The challenges of starting over as a refugee in the United States.• How Dr. Fidele’s unwavering commitment to education propelled him forward.• The importance of resilience in building a new identity after tragedy.Key Quotes:• "I realized I was safe here, and I could finally focus on education without interruption."• "We are all connected. My story might be unique, but others can find themselves in it too."• "Resilience is about continuing to move forward, even when everything seems lost."Resources:• Dr. Fidele Sebahizi’s Website: CreatingALifeFromTheAshes.comLinks of InterestThe story of Yaguine and Fode https://iday.org/en/news-en/20th-anniversary-of-yaguine-and-fode-death/Hop on my email list at lameredith.com.Want to connect on Facebook? https://www.facebook.com/lizbethmeredithfan/Find me at LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizbeth-meredith-a7026849/Want to be a Patron? For less than a coffee, sign up at patreon.com/lizbethmeredithPieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters, available in paperback and audio, is now the Lifetime TV movie, Stolen By Their Father.Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is now available in audio, paperback, and in digital form nearly wherever books are sold.My new novel! Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time-https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tilka-faces-the-odds-one-man-at-a-time-l-a-meredith/1146739100

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com

Patrisha McLean, founder and CEO of Finding Our Voices, shares her personal journey from being the wife in a picture-perfect marriage to a survivor of intimate partner violence who now empowers others. Patrisha’s story highlights the courage it takes to leave a well-known partner amid public scrutiny and the transformative power of advocacy.From finding solidarity in unexpected places to launching a statewide movement to support survivors, Patrisha's work shines a light on red flags, green flags, and the importance of breaking the silence around domestic abuse. Her organization provides practical support, from financial aid to dental care, and builds community through initiatives like survivor-led poster campaigns and virtual book clubs.You Will Learn:Red flags in relationships: Understand the warning signs of control and abuse and how to recognize them early.The power of solidarity: Hear how a small gesture from a hairdresser inspired Patrisha to create a platform for survivors.Rebuilding after abuse: Discover how Patrisha turned her experience into advocacy, helping countless women reclaim their lives.Connect with Patrisha McLean:Website: FindingOurVoices.netPodcast: Let’s Talk About ItVirtual Book Club: Join through her websiteDon’t forget to rate and share this episode! Let’s continue the conversation and shine a light on resilience and healing.Links of InterestHop on my email list at lameredith.com.Want to connect on Facebook? https://www.facebook.com/lizbethmeredithfan/Find me at LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizbeth-meredith-a7026849/Want to be a Patron? For less than a coffee, sign up at patreon.com/lizbethmeredithPieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters, available in paperback and audio, is now the Lifetime TV movie, Stolen By Their Father. Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is now available in audio, paperback, and in digital form nearly wherever books are sold. Novel Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time--https://www.amazon.com/Tilka-Faces-Odds-One-Time/dp/B0DMTXDXNM

Lizbeth’s links

Want to comment on the show? Connect at Lizbeth's author/podcast Facebook page

Lizbeth's memoir Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters can be ordered where books are sold, and is now a TV movie, #Stolen By Their Father on Lifetime.

Lizbeth's second book, Grounded in Grit: Turn Your Challenges Into Superpowers is available to order wherever books are sold!

Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a Time, new release novel https://books2read.com/u/4j760X

Sign up to stay in the know on Lizbeth's latest podcast episodes, books, and appearances at https://lameredith.com