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.

 

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

Episode Summary:Welcome back to Persistence U with Lizbeth! As we kick off Season 5, Lizbeth reflects on the ups and downs of 2024, shares personal milestones, and previews the exciting guests and topics coming in 2025. From publishing her novel Tilka Faces the Odds to planning an anthology of solo women travelers, Lizbeth discusses the power of celebrating effort, embracing resilience, and living life with intention.In This Episode, You’ll Hear:A recap of the most popular episodes from 2024, including guest favorites like Melamere Logan, Bill Mitchell, Kim Sorrell, Hera McLeod, and Rebecca Galli.Lizbeth’s lessons from the past year, including celebrating effort over outcomes and embracing faith in the face of uncertainty.Exciting plans for 2025, including new podcast guests, the upcoming Tilka Faces the Odds audiobook, and a solo travel memoir project.The importance of legacy, inspired by the untimely passing of a friend who encouraged Lizbeth’s upcoming Antarctica trip.Special Highlights:Lizbeth’s gratitude for 200 episodes of Persistence U and the incredible community of listeners.How life’s challenges can inspire us to take meaningful steps toward our goals.A heartfelt reminder to pursue what matters most before it’s too late.Links and Resources:Join the mailing list: lameredith.comSubscribe to Persistence U with Lizbeth on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform.Explore Lizbeth’s writing and upcoming projects.Don’t Forget:If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to never miss an inspiring story. Here’s to a resilient and rewarding 2025!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/lizbethmeredithMy fun novel-best for middle aged women who like disaster dating stories- is available now! Tilka Faces the Odds, One Man at a TimePieces 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. 

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

Persistence U will begin a new season in January, 2025. Enjoy the extensive backlist until then!Wanda Malhotra is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of Crunchy Mama Box. Connect with Wanda at CrunchMamaBox.com.Wanda shares her journey of resilience and mission-driven entrepreneurship, from her beginnings in Brazil to building a community in the U.S. dedicated to holistic wellness and ethical beauty. Learn how her unwavering commitment to her "why" helped her overcome obstacles as a young female entrepreneur, an immigrant, and a mother.Wanda dives into the challenges and joys of building a business that not only sustains itself but also uplifts others. She emphasizes the importance of revisiting your mission and values during tough times and shares how her platform supports indie wellness brands while educating consumers. Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience and community are the keys to long-term success.You Will Learn:Revisit Your Why: During challenging times, grounding yourself in the original purpose of your mission can help you find the strength to continue.Build a Values-Driven Community: Success grows when you create a space where people, products, and purpose align with your values.Persistence Fuels Impact: When you lead with a desire to help others, financial sustainability often follows naturally.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. 

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

Before Kim Sorrelle was an author, speaker, and director of a humanitarian organization, she was proud to be a wife and mother to a large family. And just when she and her husband were preparing for their next chapter as empty-nesters, cancer struck them both.Connect with Kim about her book and work at kimsorrelle.comKim shares her profound journey of love, loss, and resilience, and how she transformed personal grief into a purpose-driven life dedicated to serving others. Through her service work in Haiti, Kim found healing and a renewed purpose, ultimately leading her to write two books, Cry Until You Laugh and Love Is.Kim’s journey offers powerful insights on healing, the meaning of love, and the transformative power of giving back. Tune in to hear how she turned tragedy into triumph and what she learned about love through real-life experiences, both in her personal life and humanitarian efforts.You Will Learn:The Healing Power of Service: Kim found that giving back and focusing on others' needs became an essential part of her healing process, helping her "get on top of grief."Redefining Love: Through a dedicated year of exploration, Kim uncovered life-changing truths about love, challenging common misconceptions and deepening her understanding of love's true nature.Resilience Through Purpose: Kim’s story highlights the importance of finding purpose after loss and the incredible impact that aligning oneself with meaningful work can have on emotional recovery.You're invited to my launch via Zoom! Nov 18, 6PM EST. Reach out at Lizbeth@persistenceulizbeth and I'll send you the Zoom Link.

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