Have you ever had to let go of someone or something in order to save yourself from drowning? Well, Megan Katarina has done just that and has poured every vulnerable truth of her pain and her story into her latest album, Being Crazy Ain't for the Weak.

In this episode, Megan and I look into the true meaning behind her songs and the stories in her journey to create this moving and inspiring album. Unlike many music artists in Nashville, and especially at 22 years old, Megan brings so much creative depth, raw emotion and truth into her work. Her vulnerability and her courage in discussing what goes on behind the scenes is inspiring and so very wise. It's a beautiful reminder for all of us to stay true to our souls, our true voices and to create without conforming to the norms or pressures of society.

Megan talks openly and honestly about her own struggles with depression and anxiety along with her healing and how her artistic expression fits into her life and her authentic brand of music. She hopes her music lifts up listeners and helps them know they are not alone on their individual journeys to heal. Megan's voice and the poetry she weaves into her songs stirs up all the feels and gives me goosebumps when I listen.

Our stories may differ in circumstances, but we all encounter times when it's best to let go of something we know is holding us back or not serving our higher purpose.

In the preludes to Part 1 and Part 2 of her album, Being Crazy Ain't for the Weak, Megan states it so well:

"An anchor is still an anchor even if you love it so and the only way to rise is to let the anchor go."

"Wings aren't made of feathers. Wings are made of pain. And if you wish to fly you first must face your doubt and shame. So don't you wish away the scars or regret the trying times cause the very things that made you break are the things that made you fly." — Megan Katarina

To learn more about Megan, her music and how to book a house concert, please visit www.megankatarina.com

In general, you may think that belonging to a minority group can make things difficult for you in life. Imagine the challenges and obstacles a young woman who moved to the United States at the age of 16 and spoke no English would have faced to transition successfully into her new home. Then, imagine what she would have faced, as a member of multiple minority groups, to eventually earn several business and technology certifications, two Associate Degrees, a Bachelor's Degree, and a Master's and become an executive and Chief Information Officer for a large university system in New York City.

Elaine's story will inspire you to believe in yourself, no matter your circumstances. In this episode, she shares practical lessons she has learned that helped her become a better human being and connect with people at a deeper level.

Elaine Montilla's path to success involves breaking out of the stereotypes. Society has tried to put her into so many different boxes that it is hard to keep track at this point—She is a Female, Latina, lesbian, and spiritual person who works in the male-dominated Information Technology (IT) world. Elaine has learned how to thrive and succeed beyond the boxes and cultivates powerful lessons that have made her a better person on her blog at www.5xMinority.com and across various platforms on social media.

Melissa Press is an author, adventurer, runner (although no longer from life), and single mom. She has discovered the most valuable life lessons have come from times of struggle. In the past decade she has overcome multiple miscarriages, an affair, divorce and losing her father. At times the pain felt overwhelming and she lived the day simply to survive; but Melissa was determined to not let these devastating events define her. This was not how her story was going to end. She is the founder of TRUlifewellness.com and Life Club.

Brené Brown stated it perfectly, "Connection is why we are here. It is what gives meaning and purpose to our lives."

Have you ever felt like you're stuck living in a life that doesn't match up with the life you had envisioned? Are you afraid to do anything about it to change your story?

I was stuck in a story I started creating at a young age. I wanted to belong and succeed in life so I kept making small choices that snowballed into bigger ones and creating a life that didn't align with my soul. At 32 years old, the universe opened a door and got my attention. I decided to take the leap and change my story. I share how it all happened in hopes that if you feel stuck you will realize you are not alone. You can change your story and you don't have to have all the answers. You can live the life you imagined. I am worthy of belonging, being loved, being seen and heard. And, so are you.

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." -- Laozi

Welcome to Soul and Stories with Steve Vannoy!

This is a show where you'll be inspired by interviews with diverse guests who are seeking whole-hearted lives. Discover life's potential when you set intentions and take action to align with your soul's purpose. Together, we'll get energized and raise our vibration on the journey to live authentically in flow with our higher purpose.