This episode of Roots to Rafters is a behind-the-scenes check-in.

Instead of sharing a guest story or family history, Rachel Dunham sits down with Michael Marty and Luke Layton to talk honestly about what it has taken to build this podcast, what has flowed, what has been harder than expected, and why the team decided to take a short pause to reset.

They unpack the realities of launching a mission-driven creative project while juggling full-time work, learning new systems, and holding space for stories that carry real emotional weight. This conversation explores perfectionism, vulnerability, pride, patience, and the internal growth that inevitably comes when you try to build something meaningful.

This is not a step back. It's a recalibration.

In this episode, you'll hear about: • Why we paused to stop chasing the clock • What's been working and what we've had to rethink • The pressure of telling sensitive stories well • Lessons learned from early episodes and workflows • What listeners can expect next, including more consistency and deeper storytelling

Thank you for being here and for trusting the process as this story continues to take shape.

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Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal stories and experiences for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal, medical, or mental health advice.

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In this episode, Rachel and Luke sit down to reflect on their experience in the Colorado archives. They revisit the documents and discoveries from the previous episode, sharing their thoughts, emotions, and the new perspectives gained while uncovering Ida's story. It's a thoughtful pause to connect the dots between the past and present—and to reflect on how the archival journey continues to shape the project.

In this episode, we dive deep into the archives—literally. Filmed and recorded at the Colorado State Archives, we explore original documents that shed new light on Ida's life. From handwritten records to official papers, each discovery helps us piece together her story in a way that brings her history vividly to life.

On the fourth episode of the Roots to Rafters podcast Rachel continues her discussion of Ida's journey with her two cousins, Gracie, and Marley. As well as her mother Becky and sister Elyse.

In part two they dive deeper into the ripple effects of her trauma and gather insight into how she carried both her pain and perseverance. Here we see the development of what will come to be known as "The Ida Gene".

If you have your own story you'd like to share or just a question please reach out to us on our website!

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You can also find us on all social media @rootstorafterspodcast

Thank you so much!

In this heartfelt conversation, Rachel sits down with her cousins Grace and Marley, her sister Elyse, and their mom to reflect on the remarkable life of their great great grandmother, Ida Long. Together, they share stories, memories, and insights into the challenges Ida faced and the strength she embodied. Through open conversation and vulnerability, they explore how Ida's perseverance and resilience continue to shape the way they live their own lives today. This episode is a celebration of family, legacy, and the enduring impact of one woman's journey across generations.

Follow our journey or submit your own on our website!

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In Episode 2 - The Hero's Journey, we explore The Hero's Journey — the timeless narrative that shapes every story, including our own. Inspired by the documentary Finding Joe, we dive into Joseph Campbell's concept of the hero's path and how it mirrors the challenges, transformations, and triumphs we face in life. From fear and failure to courage and purpose, we unpack how this journey influences not only our personal growth but also the heart of the Roots to Rafters project itself.

In our very first episode, The What, we introduce Roots to Rafters -what is is, why it matters, and the vision behind it. We share the story of how this project came to life, what we hope to build together, and the impact we want to achieve. From the roots of healing to the rafters of new beginnings, this episode sets the foundation for everything to come.