Imagine hiding the person you truly are for five decades. This weeks guest, Denise Bowker’s, did just that. From an extremely young age, Denise experienced gender dysphoria. After decades of marriage and raising children, Denise decided to step bravely into the world as the woman she was always meant to be. Tune in to this episode of The Brave Files to learn about Denise’s transition and the community she has found as a transgender person living her most authentic life.

Detailed Show Notes.

Monique Pettaway’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. As a newlywed, her husband was sentenced to life in prison for a murder he did not commit. Through years of appeals and prison visits, Monique found herself battling a deep depression. She was broken and detached from the world around her. Eventually, she began to piece herself back together. Tune into this powerful episode of The Brave Files to hear how Monique now uses her experiences to help other women find empowerment and overcome trauma to live a life of joy.

Detailed Show Notes Here.

After being misdiagnosed with leukemia at the age of 25, Lyn Delmastro-Thomson, learned the value in listening to her body above all else. Tune in to this episode of The Brave Files to hear Lyn’s story and learn about the ways in which you can use your body’s intuitive wisdom to heal yourself from the inside out.

Detailed Show Notes Here.

Sarah Bachelder experienced every parent’s worst nightmare. At just two-and-a-half years old, her son was diagnosed with a Cancer. Through the trauma, anxiety, and fear of her son’s diagnosis and treatment, Sarah learned to dig deep and embrace who she really was as a woman and mother. Tune in to this episode of The Brave Files to learn about Sarah’s journey to find herself through the eye-opening experience of pediatric cancer, vulnerability, and motherhood.

Detailed Show Notes Here.

Diane Lang’s suffers from an unusual and debilitating illness. But she doesn’t let this illness keep her down. In this episode, Diane teaches us how to live with more empathy, kindness, and compassion no matter what you are experiencing in life. Tune in now!

Detailed show notes here.

Rhodes Perry is a fierce, out entrepreneur. His journey, however, was not always an easy one. After experiencing gender dysphoria at a young age, Rhodes eventually identified as transgender and stepped confidently into the world. Tune in to hear Rhodes’ story and learn about the importance of creating a culture of belonging and working towards equity for everyone.

Detailed Show Notes Here.

Elaine Rau believes in the impact of connection. After spending years in a toxic work environment, she took charge of her own life and built a business from the ground up. Elaine’s company, LadyBossBlogger, focuses on uplifting and encouraging women to build the life they deserve. Through sharing resources, inspiration, and a platform to be heard, Elaine is using her influence to change the face of the women-owned business world.

Detailed show notes and links here.

Welcome to Season Four of The Brave Files Podcast! We are grateful to have you listening and sharing our extraordinary stories with your friends and loved ones.

We have an exciting new season ahead. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss a moment!

Learn more about the show here. 

Order your copy of Gratitude Journal: Shift Your Focus here. 

Order your Choose Bravely or Brave is > Fearless t-shirts here.

Connect with our host, Heather Vickery, here.

Nicole Zenner is a joyful, hard-working small business owner and activist. She is committed to fighting for gun reform and systematic racism in our country. As a young adult, however, Nicole was a victim of a violent crime that threatened to seal up her loving heart. Tune in to this episode to hear Nicole’s story and learn how she decided to turn terror and hatred into love and community activism.

Detailed Show Notes Here

Amanda Yu Dieterich is a small business owner, local school council representative, mom, wife, volunteer, and immigrant. She is also running for the 35th Ward alderman in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood. Amanda dedicates her life to serving her community and dreams of a future where all people are heard. She plans to use her position as Alderwoman to uplift all community members and truly make a difference. Tune in to hear Amanda’s story and why it’s so important to get involved in your local government!

Detailed Show Notes Here.