She was called the most beautiful woman in the world.

But her real legacy?

Invisible.

This one-minute trailer previews The Voice We Never Heard—a story of invention, erasure, and brilliance buried beneath beauty.

Full story drops Friday, June 14.

Amber Cavanagh was clinically dead. Her brain had shut down. Doctors told her family to say goodbye. But what happened next defied everything they thought they knew. Amber left her body—entered a place she calls “home”—and was given a choice.

In this episode of ReMarkable!, I tell the story of Amber Cavanagh—a wife, mother, and former counselor—who experienced a near-death event so vivid, so detailed, and so emotionally charged, it altered the course of her life. Amber didn’t float through a tunnel. She woke up in a garden beyond anything we know on Earth, surrounded by loved ones, past lives, and three spirit guides. She wasn’t told what to do. She was given a choice: stay in the light… or return to a broken body and a brutal recovery.

She came back. And what followed was harder than anyone imagined. In this deeply moving episode, you’ll hear how Amber rebuilt her life—spiritually, physically, emotionally—and why she now believes no one ever walks alone. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when we die—or what might be guiding us while we live—this story will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Amber wrote a book, “At the Stroke of Eternity” that tells her story and the many lessons she learned. I’ve read it and found it to be moving and insightful. You can find it here.Amber has shared her story on many YouTube podcasts. Here’s one I enjoyed a great deal. Amber is very active on her Facebook page. I’ve enjoyed watching past recordings of her Facebook Live sessions. Here’s her page.

Affiliate disclosure: I may earn commissions from purchases made through Amazon links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Have you ever wondered how new cancer drugs come to market and why they are priced the way they are? In my latest episode on Remarkable, I discuss these very questions with Dr. Bryan Williams, a world-renowned cancer researcher and molecular biologist. With a career spanning nearly four decades at prestigious institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Dr. Williams provides a deep dive into the process of cancer research and drug development. How do research priorities get established in cancer research? Where does the funding come from? And why are there such lengthy and risky timelines involved?

Listen to the introduction to this episode

Takeaways from the Podcast:

* The complexity and length of cancer drug development, often taking 10 to 15 years.

* The role of societal pressure in directing research focus, as seen with breast cancer.

* The intricate economic dynamics that dictate high drug prices, especially in later stages of development.

* The impact of funding sources and the M&A process in the biotech industry.

The Intersection of Funding and Research

One of the intriguing aspects Dr. Williams discusses is the alignment of funding sources with research priorities. Listeners familiar with high technology venture funding will find many parallels in the development and financing of cancer research, but there are critical differences. For instance, the investment return horizons for cancer research are usually 10 to 15 years, much longer than in other sectors. The risks are high, and exits and liquidity events typically occur through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) where biotech firms are acquired by big pharmaceutical companies. But what makes cancer research funding distinct? Why are the development timelines so long and why are the risks so high?

Societal Impacts and Research Focus

Dr. Williams also touches on the societal pressures that influence research focus areas, such as with breast cancer. Historically, certain cancers, particularly those affecting women, were underfunded and under researched. Breast cancer, for instance, was not well-treated until societal pressures led to an increase in interest and funding. Today, early diagnosis techniques and advanced treatments have significantly improved the outlook for breast cancer patients. What other societal pressures are currently shaping cancer research? And what does Dr. Williams think about the future of cancer therapies? Listen to the full podcast for his insightful perspectives.

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The Economics of Drug Pricing

A critical issue that I discuss with Dr. Williams is the economics of drug pricing. Despite the substantial government and philanthropic funding that supports early research, the costs escalate dramatically when it comes to clinical trials. This is where pharmaceutical companies often step in, taking over the projects and the associated high costs. But why are the resulting drug prices often so steep? And, how do pharmaceutical companies balance the need to recover research costs while making treatments accessible? These questions and many more are unpacked in our conversation. Tune in to the episode for a nuanced understanding of these multifaceted issues in cancer research and drug development.

Chapter List:

00:00 Introduction to Cancer Drug Development

00:10 Meet Dr. Bryan Williams

00:39 Funding and Research Priorities in Cancer

02:46 The Role of Societal Pressure in Cancer Research

05:16 Dr. Williams' Career Journey

07:03 Understanding Innate Immunity and Cancer

07:57 Virus-Related Cancers and Vaccination

11:00 Genetic Predisposition to Cancer

24:02 The Economics of Cancer Drug Development

27:25 The Role of Biotech Firms in Cancer Research

31:28 Phase Two and Three Trials: Challenges and Costs

32:22 Exit Strategies for Biotech Investors

33:10 The Long Road of Drug Development

33:47 Case Study: Sydney-Based Biotech Firm

35:07 Fast Track Designation and Clinical Trials

36:57 Valuation and Market Potential of New Therapies

38:32 Cost of Goods and Market Incentives

42:16 Ethical Considerations in Drug Pricing

49:50 Global Healthcare Models and Innovation

55:39 Rising Cancer Rates Among Younger Populations

59:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Divorcing someone is never just about signing papers and moving on. There’s an emotional and psychological journey that often leaves people grappling with an array of challenges. In my latest podcast episode, I engage in a deep conversation with Bonnie Miller Ladds, a certified divorce coach, who has shaped her career by helping individuals navigate the turbulent waters of divorce. Bonnie’s unique approach, combining her skills as a therapist and a coach, brings invaluable insights into managing divorce effectively. But what exactly makes a divorce coach different from a traditional therapist? And how do they become the pillar of strength in such challenging times?

Listen to Bonnie’s definition of a divorce coach

Four Takeaways from this Episode

* There is no emotional justice in divorce; focus on your own well-being.

* Parallel parenting can be a practical solution for high-conflict divorces.

* Divorce coaches can provide invaluable guidance even before the divorce process begins.

* The importance of not transferring decision-making to your attorney – take ownership of your life.

Divorce is a Psychological Separation

One of the things that intrigue me most about Bonnie’s practice is her emphasis on staying in your own lane. She advises her clients to focus on their own emotional well-being rather than obsessing over their ex-partner's actions. This raises a question – how often do we get stuck in the pursuit of emotional justice, only to realize there’s no such thing? Bonnie explains that divorces are psychological separations, emphasizing the importance of accepting this new emotional space. How can people truly let go of their past when the temptation to ‘screw him to the wall’ as Bonnie puts it, is so strong? Listen to the podcast to understand why staying focused on yourself can be the real key to moving forward.

High-Conflict Divorces and Parallel Parenting

Bonnie also introduces the concept of parallel parenting, especially useful for high-conflict divorces. Unlike the harmony and negotiation often associated with co-parenting, parallel parenting involves each parent operating independently to minimize conflicts. What does it mean for parents and children? And how do parents navigate decisions around critical issues like the timing of handing a smartphone to their child when they have entirely different views? The answers aren't straightforward, but Bonnie provides a roadmap for managing these complex dynamics.

Pre-Divorce Coaching

Another compelling part of our discussion revolves around the role of divorce coaches pre-divorce. Bonnie highlights that divorce coaching isn’t just for those who have decided to split; it also guides those contemplating divorce. How does one sift through the emotional and practical aspects to make an informed decision? Bonnie’s insights could be the lifeline many need to truly understand the implications of such a monumental decision. Dive into the podcast to hear real-life examples, including the tough choices individuals face and how to approach them.

Catch the full episode to explore these topics in detail and learn from Bonnie Miller Ladd’s vast experience. Your journey through or toward a divorce might just need that essential guidance to see the morning light once again.

As I welcome my friend Jason Pittman, a Navy Commodore, to my podcast, I'm struck by the unique leadership challenges he faces. Jason is preparing for a move to Australia to support our government's relationship with the Aussies and their new nuclear submarine program. But today, we dive into the lessons he's learned from managing crews on some of the most advanced and sensitive vessels in the U.S. Navy: nuclear submarines. Have you ever wondered what it takes to lead a team in such an extraordinary environment? Jason's insights might surprise you.

Listen to some highlights from this episode

Four Takeaways from the Podcast:

* The importance of continuous training and readiness in high-stakes environments.

* The role of leadership in building a resilient and accountable team.

* The impact of geopolitical tensions on military preparedness.

* Strategies for balancing immediate objectives with long-term development.

The Unique Challenges of Nuclear Submarine Leadership

Managing crews in the Navy, particularly on submarines, requires a different perspective than those of us in civilian life might imagine. The stakes are incredibly high; any misstep could have life-or-death consequences. Jason shares how he navigates these challenges, focusing on continuous training and building a culture where everyone holds each other accountable. How does this military approach compare with leadership in the business world? What can we learn from the Navy? These are some of the questions we tackle in this episode.

Balancing Immediate and Long-Term Goals

One particularly eye-opening aspect of Jason's career is how he balances immediate mission objectives with long-term training and development. Even with the constant rotation of crew members, he ensures that everyone is ready to perform under the most stressful conditions. It’s not just about being good at your job; it’s about being exceptional so that you can handle whatever comes your way. How does he achieve this level of readiness? And what role does failure play in this high-stakes environment? Jason's experiences provide some fascinating answers.

Navigating Geopolitical Tensions

As geopolitical tensions rise, the skills and preparedness of military leaders like Jason become even more critical. He reflects on the shifting global landscape and the ever-present possibility of conflict, particularly with nations like China and Russia. How do these real-world threats affect the mental and emotional readiness of his crew? And how does Jason prepare his team for the uncertainty that lies ahead? Joining us on this journey into the depths of submarine warfare offers lessons in resilience, adaptability, and leadership that are applicable far beyond the military.

Curious to learn more about the intricacies of managing a submarine crew and the lessons in leadership that transcend industries? Tune in to the podcast for an in-depth conversation.

I’m back with my guest, Kristina Goode-Crook, co-owner, co-founder, and general manager of MarketSteer Steakhouse in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In today's episode, we discuss how gender bias has impacted her career, from raising funds to start her restaurant, to interacting with landlords and contractors.  We also discuss sexual harassment, not only directed at her but also at members of her staff.

Kristina’s story is a testament to her resilience and determination to overcome the unique challenge as a woman co-owning and managing a steakhouse—a domain traditionally dominated by men.

Listen to the first two minutes of the show . . .

Four Takeaways from the Podcast:

* Perseverance in the Face of Financial Barriers: Discover how Kristina and Kat broke through the financial barriers by continually persisting despite many rejections.

* Setting Boundaries in Professional Spaces: Learn about Kristina’s strategies for handling sexual harassment and maintaining professional boundaries.

* Empathy as a Leadership Strength: Explore how empathy and consensus-building are not just soft skills but crucial leadership strategies.

* Breaking Stereotypes: Understand the persistent gender stereotypes in the restaurant industry and how Kristina flips these on their head, turning them into her strengths.

The Gender Gap in Business Funding

One of the most intriguing parts of our conversation revolves around the challenges Kristina faced while raising money for her restaurant. Did being a woman make it more difficult to secure loans? Kristina shares some eye-opening statistics and personal anecdotes that will make you rethink the obstacles women face in business. Despite numerous meetings with bankers and countless business plans, the financial world wasn’t ready to trust two women with their ambitious dream. Listen to get the inside scoop.

Battling Gender Bias and Harassment

Kristina tackles the uncomfortable yet important topic of sexual harassment in the restaurant industry, providing a candid perspective that many might not expect. She shares the “dance” she has had to master, a balancing act of deflection and resilience, to navigate the minefield of inappropriate behavior while maintaining her professional integrity and career growth. Beyond personal anecdotes, she discusses how she has created a safe and respectful work environment for her employees at MarketSteer Steakhouse, including her zero-tolerance policy towards harassment. How does she handle unruly customers who cross the line? Is there a different approach when the harasser is a customer versus an employee? This episode offers valuable lessons not just for those in the restaurant business, but for anyone facing similar challenges in their career.

Strength in Empathy and Consensus

Another poignant topic is the stereotyping of women’s roles in both the kitchen and the boardroom. Kristina illustrates this with stories of how she and her partner Kat have had to repeatedly prove their worth and navigate through male-dominant spaces, whether dealing with contractors or patrons. Interestingly, Kristina believes women may have an edge due to their empathy and ability to build consensus—skills that have proven invaluable in managing her team and overseeing the construction of their new venue. Yet, despite their successful track record, they often get mistaken for less authoritative roles. What persistent stereotypes do they encounter, and how do they handle being underestimated? Kristina’s clever anecdotes and practical insights offer a refreshing perspective on leadership.

Ready for more insights and real-life strategies? Listen to the full episode and dive deeper into Kristina’s journey to success in a male-dominated field.

I am delighted to introduce a game-changing guest, Tamie Wilson, who hails from Delaware, Ohio, just north of Columbus. Tamie is not just a remarkable individual; she is on a mission to make a significant difference by running for Congress in Ohio’s 4th District. Ever wondered why government often seems dysfunctional? Tamie believes she can turn things around and make government work for its constituents in her district.

Four Takeaways from this Episode:

* Tamie’s Story: From personal struggles to public service, learn how Tammy’s experiences fuel her mission to bring about real change.

* Key Issues: Discover the pressing challenges in Ohio’s 4th District and Tamie’s practical solutions.

* Ineffective Governance: Understand why Jim Jordan’s long tenure has failed to deliver for his constituents.

* Vision for the Future: Tamie’s comprehensive plan to improve job opportunities, health care, and living conditions in the district.

Tamie’s Background and Inspiration

Tamie shares a compelling story about her roots and her journey that led her to public service. Growing up in the heartland of Ohio, her family instilled strong patriotic and military values. However, when COVID-19 hit, Tamie faced a harsh reality check. As a single mom and small business owner, she didn't qualify for any relief funding, making her question the effectiveness of government policies. This transformative experience, coupled with the country's increasing division, inspired her to run for office. Do you know anyone who has turned personal adversity into a call to service?

Real Issues in the 4th District

Tamie’s campaign is centered around addressing real and pressing issues that affect everyday lives: jobs, affordable housing, health and food deserts, and senior financial protection. The 4th District, as she describes, is diverse, encompassing rich suburban areas and struggling rural communities. Tamie’s vision is to be “The People's Congresswoman,” representing every constituent and tackling core issues head-on. How do you think government can better serve its people?

A New Hope for Ohio

In our conversation, Tamie details how she plans to bring funding and jobs back to the 4th District, a key responsibility that her opponent, Jim Jordan, has neglected. Jordan, who has been in office for 17 years without delivering tangible benefits, is a prime example of why effective representation matters. Tamie envisions a district with good-paying jobs close to home, robust healthcare facilities, and accessible, healthy food options for all. Does your representative fight for what truly matters to you?

Conclusion

In closing, Tamie Wilson’s candidacy represents a beacon of hope for Ohio’s 4th District. Her pragmatic and heartfelt approach to governance resonates deeply with her constituents' needs. It’s high time for a change—a change that reflects the true essence of effective leadership and community service.

Today, as I celebrate my 70th birthday, I reflect on a cherished memory and share some thoughts on our great nation.

When I was nine, my dad gave me an unforgettable birthday gift—a night flight over Dallas in a small Cessna 172. The city lights glittered like diamonds below as we soared through the darkness. But the true highlight was circling above the Cotton Bowl Stadium, witnessing fireworks from above. Born on the 4th of July, my birthday has always been intertwined with America's celebrations.

Today, America faces deep divisions, but history shows we've always overcome challenges. From the 60s civil rights movements and the Cold War fears to fears about foreign and domestic terrorists, we've emerged stronger. Civil debate and understanding our neighbors are key.

As I enjoy my birthday with family, I remain hopeful for our country’s future. Together, we can make America even better.

I'm thrilled to welcome Linda LeBrun to my ReMarkable! podcast. Linda works for Substack and is a member of the team that engages with financial writers and creatives. In our conversation, Linda provided some great insights into why Substack has emerged as an exciting place for writers, podcasters, and other creatives to scale an audience and monetize their work. Linda described Substack’s mission this way: To build a new economic engine for culture. In this episode we discuss Substack’s unique business model and how and why creatives are using the platform to build an audience and, if they choose, monetize their work.

Four Key Takeaways:

* Consistency is crucial for building an audience—stick to a regular posting schedule.

* Engage in cross-pollination through recommendations and Notes to expand your reach.

* Having a unique point of view can set you apart and attract a dedicated following.

* Substack’s tools, like email list ownership and payment setup, empower creators to control their monetization strategy.

Linda’s Midlife Career Reinvention

Linda shared an intriguing story about her professional background. She used to work in the investment industry as a portfolio manager for nearly two decades. During the pandemic, she assessed her career path and found herself drawn to tech and startups, ultimately joining Substack. Curious about how Linda made such a significant career shift? What challenges and new opportunities did she face? Her journey offers valuable lessons for anyone considering a midlife career change. Don’t miss her insights on how one can reinvent themselves at any age.

The Innovation of Substack

Substack is a groundbreaking platform that combines writing, podcasting, and video under one roof. Linda emphasizes that Substack provides creators with the control and ownership over their email lists and payment relationships, unlike traditional social media platforms. This is a game-changer for many content creators who want to directly engage with their audience without the interference of algorithms. Wondering how this feature can transform your content strategy? Linda’s detailed explanation will make you rethink the way you engage with your audience.

Success on Substack: Consistency and Cross-Pollination

We delve into the secret sauce behind successful Substack creators. Linda reveals that consistency is key, followed by active cross-pollination through recommendations and notes. She also emphasizes having a distinctive point of view. Are you an aspiring content creator struggling to build an audience? Linda’s three best practices might be exactly what you need. Find out how these tactics have been game-changers for both new and established Substackers by listening to the full episode.

Curious about the finer details that make Substack a powerful platform for creators? Dive into the full episode to uncover all the insights and actionable advice Linda shares.

Thanks for reading Remarkable! (A Podcast)! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to my Remarkable! Podcast

00:23 Understanding Substack's Mission

01:13 Welcoming Linda LeBrun

02:52 Linda's Professional Journey

05:55 Substack's Unique Value Proposition

08:11 The Evolution of Substack

17:00 Community and Discovery on Substack

25:47 Challenges and Opportunities for Podcasters

37:37 The Power of Niche Content

38:29 Understanding Your Value Proposition

38:50 Leveraging Substack's Tools and Community

39:31 Substack's Approach to AI

40:32 The Role of AI in Content Creation

43:10 The Artisanal Approach to Content

49:28 Best Practices for Substack Success

56:07 Consistency and Quality in Content Creation

01:08:45 The Journey to Building an Audience

01:10:31 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

I am excited to introduce my guest for the day, Jo Byrne, a fellow Shaker Heights resident, and founder of the firm See Your Words. Our conversation delves into an intriguing and somewhat lesser-known profession—visual note-taking or graphic recording. Jo’s unique career offers a fascinating blend of art and real-time information processing, which piqued my interest from the moment we met a few weeks ago. What exactly does a graphic recorder do? And how did Jo find herself in this unusual but impactful line of work?

Podcast Takeaways:

* Serendipitous Beginnings: Jo Byrne’s entry into visual note-taking was unplanned but led to a fulfilling, impactful career.

* Real-Time Artistry: Effective visual note-taking combines sophisticated art skills with real-time information processing.

* Emotional Resonance: Capturing the emotional undertones of a meeting can add significant value to the recorded information.

* Practical Tips: For better communication and memory retention, integrating visuals into meetings can be highly effective. 

The Journey to Becoming a Visual Recorder

Jo’s story of how she found her way to Shaker Heights and embarked on this career is nothing short of remarkable. Moving here over two decades ago due to her husband's job with Avery Denison, Jo quickly fell in love with the area. From there, her journey into visual note-taking took off almost serendipitously. Without any prior experience, she was asked to try out this unique role at a meeting for the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland. Imagine taping a roll of paper to the wall and starting drawing with no idea what to expect! How did she manage to turn this unexpected opportunity into a fulfilling 11-year career?  

The Art and Science of Visual Recording

Visual recording isn’t just about doodling on a piece of paper. It’s a sophisticated method of capturing the essence of conversations, emotions, and strategies as they unfold. Jo explains how her background as a graphic designer influenced her approach to this work, but does visual recording really contribute to better memory retention and understanding in these settings? And how does she use colors, stick figures, and symbols to represent complex ideas in real time? The ability to turn abstract discussions into visual metaphors is truly an art form that goes beyond regular note-taking.

Emotional Impact and Professional Insights

Jo’s visual notes do more than just document meetings; they capture the emotions and dynamics of the room. From light-hearted laughs to tense discussions, her work manages to convey feelings that often go unnoticed in traditional meeting minutes. She recalls moments where her drawings brought people to tears or provided essential insights that influenced business decisions. But how does she manage to stay unbiased and capture the honest sentiments in these high-stake settings? And what are some of the most memorable reactions to her work over the years? You won’t want to miss the touching and impactful stories she shares in this episode.

Curious to learn more about Jo’s incredible journey and her unique insights into visual note-taking? Don't miss the full episode of the podcast!

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