Tragedy Academy

Tragedy Academy

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Tragedy Academy episodes

  • Special Guest: Christine Twyman - We’re all traumatized children

    Summary:

    In today's episodes of The Tragedy Academy, Jay welcomes actress and director Christine Twyman. Chrissy breaks down the concept of trauma and presents a method of healing by art. Christine advocates that through art, we can create a space for trauma intervention.

    Key Points:

    • Advocating for trauma intervention via art
    • Working with people who are only interested in the monetary
    • Understanding trauma
    • Integrating with your trauma
    • Recognizing that it's not our parent's fault
    • Men are oppressing themselves

      • Episode Highlights:

      [00:00:31] Introduction to Christine Twyman

      [00:03:04] Jay introduces Christine's goal of advocating for trauma intervention via art. She describes this as a society, and there are several issues the prevent people from getting trauma intervention, and one way to receive these interventions is through art. Why? Because art is one of the few things that can connect everyone in some way.

      [00:06:36] Christine admits filming is a strange medium to create in because it is one of the few spaces where business and politics interject. Unfortunately, it's almost impossible to separate them.

      [00:08:19] Christine makes it known the intent for someone to make art solely for money does not bother her if only they allow her to do what needs to get done.

      [00:12:12] Christine and Jay give their interpretation of ego. Where ego is more of a persona and how people perceive things.

      [00:14:04] Christine portrays that we are all traumatized children and confesses that she has grown more as an actor by understanding other people as she learns about herself while she unpacks her life.

      [00:17:32] Christine confesses her love for writing, even more than acting. Writing is the most exciting thing to do; it releases parts inside of you didn't even know you had.

      [00:22:11] Christine brings up the topic of violence in mass manipulation. From a young age, both women and men are conditioned to fall into specific gender roles, and if they dare to venture outside of that, there will be repercussions.

      [00:24:45] Christine tells us the critical role of past traumas how the goal is not to forget about your past but to make amends with it. It's a matter of integrating, not removing. She also shares the many pieces of herself she's learned from unpacking her mental illness.

      [00:26:57] Christine recognizes that it's not our parents' fault for how they raised us. The generational gap is normal, and it is our duty to create a better world for future generations by bridging those gaps.

      [00:31:19] Christine breaks down the types of violence in life; 1st violence is physical abuse, and 2nd violence is psychological and emotional. People do not usually quantify emotional violence as violence.

      [00:33:24] Jay details his life growing up in a disenfranchised area of the south, where people blamed their struggles on each other when they should be blaming the system. Christine labels this as crabs in a barrel.

      [00:36:00] Christine and Jay agree on the notion that men are oppressing themselves. Men learn that they are not allowed to feel what makes them human. Christine states that to oppress the female class, men have to believe that there's something wrong with them at all.

      [00:39:34] Christine and Jay discuss the animosity we create within ourselves and how to identify microaggressions, referencing White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo.

      [00:44:05] Jay gives an anecdote when he passed judgment on a friend who just had his tooth chipped.

      [00:46:20] Christine gives us a quick rundown of commedia dell'arte, aka SNL 1.0.

      [00:50:30] Christine and Jay agree on art being a part of evolution. It's a tale as old as time; it's something we need. It creates connections and serves as an outlet for the ego.

      [00:54:47] Christine and Jay reflect ...

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      1 hr 8 min
    • Special Guest: Karen Laven - The Other 23 Days
      Summary:In today’s episodes of The Tragedy Academy, Jay welcomes Karen Laven. Karen is the author of The Other 23 Days: Scores of Alternative Uses for Feminine Hygiene Products. Karen walks us through her first menstrual experience and explains just how much she hated it. But, through this, she able to find the humor in feminine hygiene products, which then sparked the beginning of her 14-year long passion project.Key Points: Book introductionComing up with the ideaFamily support since day oneThe controversy the book carriedAlternative uses for feminine hygiene productsPeople with weird energyEpisode Highlights:[01:15] Jay introduces Karen’s new book The Other 23 Days: Scores of Alternative Uses for Feminine Hygiene Products. Over 14 years and constant pushback from almost every avenue, Karen could finally complete her passion project, knowing that something in her never allowed her to give up or let go.[02:16] Coming up with the idea was something out of the left field. Karen shares an anecdote of being approached by a guy who had started a publishing company in Minnesota. He asked her to write a book of great ideas for 1st birthday parties. Naturally, Karen presented him with a book about alternative uses for hygiene products. [06:14] Karen tells us about the endless support she has received from her family, from the simplest tasks of her husband driving her around to book signings to then taking photos and helping with interviews.[7:07] Jay and Karen both agree on the concept of importance; if you put a high level of importance on something, it makes it so much harder to obtain.[08:31] During her time in Minnesota, Karen unveils to us how she got a stewardess role in one of the many movies being shot there at the time, just by simply writing a poem and sending it to the casting director.[10:12] Karen shares with us the experience of getting her first menstrual cycle. She explains how she felt like a girl trapped in a woman’s body, comparing it to torture, and reveals how the side effects were so harmful she could not leave the house for days![13:13] Karen describes to us the hoops she had to jump through to get people to sell her book. People often labeled it too controversial, where even feminist bookstores were reluctant to house her book. [18:11] Karen shares something she discovered while researching for the book – the first tampon was bamboo dipped in grease and lint wrapped around it. Ouch![19:23] Jay lists a massive amount of alternative uses for pads right from the book. A few being; deodorant pads for farts, duster, visor, moving sliders, even using panty liners to hold nails in place. The list goes on![25:00] Erick shares two notable books he had in his home growing up, including different types of farts. Further confirming that if there’s room in the world for fart books, then there’s room in the world of different pads and tampons usage.[28:00] Karen shares with us how her kids are just now starting to think she’s funny and cool, at least just a little bit.[30:52] Jay and Erick discover that they worked for a company Karen did the commercial for a company that Jay describes as “sales Nazi boot camp.” [34:50] Jay, Karen, and Erick agree that some people suck. Erick shares a strange encounter she had with a woman he was interviewing for a job. [38:46] watching people that I know doing in interviewing for a job[40:56] Karen gives us a rundown between a Brenda and a Karen[42:17] OutroKaren Laven Bio:About me… Me… ME! I am a former newspaper reporter and author of multiple books of fiction and nonfiction, including, Cincinnati Ghosts, Dayton Ghosts, Quit Bugging Me, and, The Surrogate Who Cleaned Up. I am a public speaker as well and have given presentations at the Victory of Light convention and numerous libraries, schools, and facilities. In addition, I am a humorist and actress because I’m nuts. Before riding the stairlift in Med Mart’s commercial (it was exhausting), I appeared in the trailer of t
      50 min
    • Special Guest: Jordan Delagrange - Martial Arts & Wellness

      In today’s episode of The Tragedy Academy, Jay is joined by Jordan Delagrange, a martial artist, stunt-man, and healer. Jordan enlightens us with his perspective on how mind and body are equally connected and how we can all achieve mindfulness through meditation and martial arts.

      Key Points:

      • Becoming a stunt man
      • A student of the arts
      • Sanctuary of Art and Healing
      • Thai chi and mindfulness
      • Yin and Yang and space between
      • Mediating and Acupuncture
      • Obtaining the observer position

        • Episode Highlights:

        [00:40] Introduction to Jordan Delagrange

        [01:54] Jordan shares his story of how he unexpectedly became a stunt-man simply by attending a Wing Chun seminar in Long Beach.

        [04:51] Jordan, as with his idol Bruce Lee, favors learning from every martial arts form

        [06:59] Jordan describes himself as a student of all the arts and gives the example of Bruce Lee’s biography titled A Life Unabridged

        [10:34] While Jordan is a doctorate student in Chinese medicine, he tells us about his business, Sanctuary of Art and Healing, offering alternatives elements of human health not offered in western medicine.

        [15:10] Jordan and Jay discuss Thai chi and whether it focuses on mindfulness though Jordan describes it as complex yet simple. The goal is to feel the movement rather than think it through.

        [19:49] Jordan reminds us that physical issues are often tied to mental problems.

        [21:46] Jordan and Jay dive deep into the benefits of both meditating and acupuncture, describing it as an emotional release and even having the benefit of atrophying your amygdala.

        [25:13] Jordan and Jay both give anecdotes of their experiences serving the armed forces.

        [27:34] Jay reveals that mediation has helped him recognize that we are already in heaven, and Jordan agrees by quoting Alan Watts, “Everyone focuses only on the destination.”

        [30:37] Jordan divulges in his surrounding, often asking himself, who are these people around me? What are their stories? He finds comfort because there’s no way of knowing, yet we all feel the same thing.

        [33:11] Jordan feels we have unlimited potential as a species while describing himself as a teacher, healer, and student.

        [35:16] Jordan reveals that there is nothing else he would instead do than to help his fellow humans.

        [37:14] Jordan explains to us that to obtain the observer position, we must distance ourselves from the emotions we’re feeling in our body at the moment to feel objectively and emphatically.

        [38:06] Jordan recites his poem The Unseen Becomes the Seen

        [41:31] Jordan reveals to us the security he feels within himself, has no fear of anything that can happen, and reiterates the importance of being ready no matter what.

        [45:01] Jordan gives a simple first step to meditating; close your eyes, breathe deeply, and listen behind you.

        [45:45] Connect with Jordan

        Connect with Jordan:

        Martial Arts and Wellness

        Sanctuary of Art and Healing

        Instagram | @martialartsandwellness

        Sources Mentioned:

        - A Life Unabridged by Bruce Lee

        Mentioned in this episode:

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        53 min
      • Special Guest: Glauco Araujo - Nurture your love

        Summary:

        In today’s episodes of The Tragedy Academy, Jay is joined by Brazilian actor and dancer Glauco Araujo. Glauco walks us through his life growing up in remote farmland in Brazil and how he turned his internal struggles into beautiful art for all to consume.

        Key Points:

        • Glauco tells his backstory growing up in a remote farm area in Brazil
        • Transitioning from a field outside of Rio to an accomplished dancer and actor
        • Glauco’s first contact with ballet
        • Favorite ballet dancer Rudolph Nureyev and relating to his struggle
        • Moving to New York wanting to something more
        • Seeking therapy
        • Charity: Disciple Actors Guild

          • Episode Highlights:

          [02:23] Glauco tells us his experience growing up on a farm outside of Rio De Janeiro and his aspirations of wanting something more

          [05:05] Glauco shares where his passion for dance was born. Starting with performing at Carnival, to working in the Paralympics, and also working for Modern Dance in Chicago.

          [07:20] Glauco expresses his awe every time he visited Rio as a kid, comparing it to being in Times Square for the first time.

          [09:47] Glauco gives us a rundown of his initial contact with a ballet which was getting his first job in a dance company in Rio where he was lucky enough to have a director who believed in him. Although he does admit that he hated ballet at first.

          [12:49] Glauco begins to immerse himself into the ballet by studying its history which is where he discovered his favorite dancer, Rudolf Nureyev.

          [17:37] Glauco reveals how he relates to Rudolph’s struggle; the diversity he had to overcome by being gay, the humble beginnings, his grit in following his dreams.

          [19:36] Glauco shares the difficulties growing up in Brazilian culture that is traditionally machismo and suppressive, and evangelical.

          [21:51] Gluaco expresses his relief and gratitude for finally living in a place that allows him to be free and is encouraged to live out his dreams.

          [26:00] Glauco moves to New York where he feels a burning desire to do more than dance, something that allows the human connection.

          [29:14] When moving to New York, a director sees Glauco perform and offers him a role in a short film about dancing.

          [31:02] Glauco reveals that most opportunities that have come into his life have been through connecting with people.

          [34:37] Staying out of trouble is Glauco's #1 advice to his younger self, but through this, he recognizes that his aggressions as a kid acted as a way to protect himself.

          [38:46] Glauco and Jay discuss how people don’t change without new experiences which also means you cannot judge people without people having a chance to be confronted in what they believe in.

          [40:30] Glauco confesses how therapy was his savior in overcoming and accepting past trauma. He feels that the only way to help others in seeking mental help is by setting the example.

          [42:58] Charity: Disciple Actors Guild; helps performers pay their rent and bills

          [46:01] Glauco shares heartwarming messages he has received on social media

          [48:34] Jay and Glauco discuss the very prominent body dysmorphia in dance and how we judge ourselves to the worst degrees.

          [51:00] Plugs: 2 short films that will be out in June. Actorsguild.org

          [54:00] Outro

          Connect with Glauco:

          • Website
          • Instagram
          • YouTube
          • IMDB

            • Tweetable Quotes:

            • “I think the motivation should be to get out of t ...

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            1 hr
          • Special Guest - Demi Ramos - From 0 to 100 with the right attitude

            In today’s episode, Jay interviews Demi Ramos; model, artist, and co-host of the podcast “It’s Real” with Jordan & Demi. Demi shares with us a few anecdotes about living in NYC and we dive into her music inspirations and aspirations.

            Key Points:

            • Demi admits to having an awkward phase while Jay reassures that it's necessary as an artist
            • Authenticity cultivates an organic fanbase
            • Demi walks us through her modeling career
            • Being an artist and hustling is difficult in the digital age, going digital,
            • Jay defines the meaning of struggle and how it builds resilience and empathy
            • Jay and Demi discuss cognitive bias

              • Episode Highlights:

              [01:30] Jay brings up one of Demi’s earliest music demos, Brooklyn Love. To which he compares it to a Smiths sound.

              [04:27] Demi and Jay discuss the awkward phase experienced in youth

              [06:30] Jay reveals his love affair with music, how he hears tones and melodies in music but not the lyrics. Asks the question, what does music invoke? Why do you feel it?

              [10:14] Demi shares a solo project she had been working on through the pandemic.

              [12:40] Demi walks us through her modeling career starting from age 18 and how it impeded on her music aspirations.

              [15:38] Demi shares her story of almost getting kidnapped by getting lured into a hotel room.

              [21:51] Demi gives us a behind the scenes on her “City Tings” Instagram story on the infamous bottle rocket butthole guy

              [24:50] Demi uncovers where she feels her music comes from

              [27:39] Demi and Jay conflict on social media and becoming a slave it while also wanting to remain your authentic self.

              [29:19] Jay references the life of Mike Barker; how he started life with the goal of becoming a guidance counselor and after years of working in Hollywood still ended up in that role

              [31:17] Jay and Demi speak about ongoing digital and the rise of digital art

              [32:45] Demi reveals who her favorite podcast guest is

              [34:47] Jay dives deep on the concept of struggle; what is it and how it builds resilience and empathy

              [40:40] Jay admits to having a cognitive bias when a friend broke his front tooth

              [42:04] Jay and Demi reflect on how we let the mind play tricks on us and how so often we allow worrying about the future to consume us.

              [45:16] Demi shares her Hispanic heritage and the importance of involving yourself in the culture

              Tweetable Quotes:

              • "You can go from 0 to 100 with the right attitude" - Demi
              • "I treat everybody like they're the most important person in the room" - Demi
              • I believe that people's love of music comes from the whom" - Demi

                • Instagram | @demi_ramos

                Instagram | @popdust Popdust

                It's Real with Jordan & Demi | Listen Here!

                Mentioned in this episode:

                Connect with us!

                ? Connect with us!

                https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
                ? Resources & Affiliate Links:
                ? Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
                ?? Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
                ? Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
                ? For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
                https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
                ? Connect with us!
                ? Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! ? https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
                ? If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
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                54 min
              • Special Guest - Sharon Green - ”Everything is written within our stars”

                In today’s episode, Jay talks to Sharon Green, a Reiki Master. She talks about her awakening and passion.

                Episode Highlights:

                • 3:30: Sharon talks about her interest in Astrology and how she started exploring horoscopes, sun, moon, and rising science.
                • 4:20: Jay points out that even though we have been studying astrology longer than other strings in religions, there is still a grouping in which society tags people who pursue astrology.
                • 5:40: Sharon shares that a group of people believes that there is a collective of unconsciousness/spirits that are guiding astrologers.
                • 7:25: According to Sharon’s viewpoint - People are choosing now to awaken because there is a certain appeal to not pursue astrology.
                • 8:20: Jay talks about his defense mechanism in life.
                • 11:18: Sharon says that “Healing takes place whether you want it or not when it comes to a grand scale and macro cause of energetic work.”
                • 11:40: Jay highlights that “When we see humanity as a whole, we fail to realize that we are one unit because we all impact each other.”
                • 12:40: Sharon articulates people talk about their anxiety, depression, back pain, but actually it is not theirs - it is something that happens to them.
                • 14:05: Sharon indicates that all kind of inhuman experience that we agree to experiment is freewill experiment.
                • 17:45: Sharon states, “it doesn’t really matter what you have on your pizza; what matters is how you enjoy it.”
                • 23:10: Sharon shares how the Industrial Revolution is powerfully moving forward for our minds.
                • 25:34: Jay and Sharon discuss how “It is our attempt to bringing our mind together.”
                • 26:15: Jay stresses the importance of discernment. One should see “what is real and what is not,” but unfortunately, many people don’t realize that it is all programming.
                • 26:55: Sharon explains what a “Twins Flame” is?
                • 27:10: Twin Flame is an experiment for people who come from a traumatic background to sit with themselves and become whole human beings.
                • 29:40: Jay quotes, “You can’t move forward with your feet talking nonsense”.
                • 32:25: Jay says, “When your tongue is stuck to the roof of your mouth, you are having reinforced conversation with your brain through micro-movements in your tongue.”
                • 36:25: Sharon reiterates that we all have an alternative film playing back in our minds, and Hollywood Bollywood had a huge role in our lives.
                • 40:50: Sharon denotes, “There is a scientist before the science”.
                • 45:20: While raising a concern, Sharon says that people put everything in the little box of “Suppose to” and don’t really take minutes to realize what they are grateful for.
                • 46:35: Sharon talks about “Ego Death”; it is a highly overused term. As per Sharon, ego death explains the different parts of a person's ego.
                • 50:25: Sharon talks about the spiritual approach “There is so much more to life.” It is important to think “How can I live in the way it feels right for me?”
                • 55.15: Sharon says, “We need to see every possibility and watch how people react to it.”

                  • 3 Key Points:

                • Jay raises a concern that one is not allowed within a society to break down eastern philosophies that actually show us the controversy between religion and belief.
                • Jay says that it is an easy stretch for him to put Jesus in the prophet's shoes to understand the awakening process through meditation and prayer. He came to discover that everything we take upon ourselves is a choice and form of madness.
                • Sharon talks about social experiments and free will. The important thing to note is “Where we get it from?”. At the end of the day, programming and the industrial revolution had happened for us to elevate.

                  • Tweetable Quotes:

                  • “Everything is written within our stars”- Sharon Green
                  • “What you choose to believe is your c ...

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                    1 hr 2 min
                  • Cultivating Creativity & Compassion: Niloo’s Artistic Journey

                    In today’s episode, Jay speaks with Niloo, a full-time Actor, Vocalist, and Stand-Up Comic in Los Angeles. Her Persian roots make her a valuable vocalist in her musical projects, including the International Party Band “26 Orchestra” and her music collective called “A Tribe Called Love,” which brings popular and EDM music together with conscious lyrics.

                    Stay tuned after the show for a debut peek at an unreleased. collaboration track between Niloo and Musician & Producer Shahya. A lo fi soundtrack about Summer Flings

                    Episode Highlights:

                    · 02:00: Jay introduces Niloo, and they talk about welfare checks amongst friends and the importance of asking for each other’s well-being.

                    · 04:35: Jay refers to a TikTok video that he used to make with one of his old friends.

                    · 05:35: Niloo states that her favorite set was from the “Comedy Store.”

                    · 07:45: She expresses that humans tend to make everything more complex than it needs to be.

                    · 09:45: As per Jay, one should move on with life and be grateful as it makes life so much easier and amazing.

                    · 12:00: Jay praises Niloo, saying that he loves the fact that she is so authentic because the stuff she says throws everybody off guard.

                    · 14:15: Niloo says that grooming for her has a varying landscape based on need.

                    · 15:55: Jay points out that the ingrained thought processes that we have do not allow us to function like normal creatures.

                    · 18:15: According to Niloo and Jay, the word fear stops us from loving.

                    · 20:20: Jay asks Niloo that what brought her from Persia to America.

                    · 22:20: Niloo narrates her life journey right through her childhood till she moved to Los Angeles.

                    · 24:40: Jay curiously enquires from Niloo about her documentaries and films.

                    · 26:30: Niloo and Jay talk about the Persian/Indian extravagant and expensive weddings.

                    · 28:30: Jay recalls an incident where a cartoon character was about George Bush.

                    · 30:40: “A Tribe Called Love” was created of bringing the community together, says Niloo.

                    · 35:20: Jay suggests that to be a Comedian, one must have a certain amount of strife as it comes from suffering.

                    · 36:40: Niloo mentions it is sometimes good to point out someone’s behavior directly.

                    · 38:40: She says the older she got in her twenties; the confrontations were more heated.

                    · 40:35: Jay reiterates that what Niloo said about her telling people from friendship reflects her everyday actions.

                    · 40:55: Jay asks Niloo about her upcoming events.

                    · 42:50: Niloo and Jay discuss the need to do a separate show on animal rescue as Niloo is an Animal Rights Activist and Rescuer.

                    3 Key Points:

                    1. Niloo gives an example of how we deep shame about what nature gave us. She says we have shamed generations of men by telling them that it’s wrong for them to cry, and we forgot that crying is a biological function.

                    2. Niloo mentions that she and her partner are majorly producing the comedy show - “That’s Funny Niloo.”

                    3. Niloo expresses while talking about animal rescue rights. The words we use matter; we can’t move beyond a bit of level of consciousness without changing the words.

                    Resources Mentioned:

                    · Niloo: @Thats_Funny_Niloo: InstagramFacebook

                    · @A_Tribe_Called_Love: FacebookInstagram

                    · Book - “Love Came & Went” (Memoirs of a Persian American Love Addict): Amazon

                    Niloo Bio:

                    Niloo is a full-time Actor, Vocalist, and Stand-Up Comic in Los Angeles.

                    Her Persian roots make her a valuable vocalist in her musical projects, includin ...

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                    53 min
                  • Unmasking Success: The Mike Barker Story

                    In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with the "Entertainment Guru," Mike Barker, for a profound discussion on personal branding and finding life's purpose. Delve into Mike's transformative journey from aspiring guidance counselor to becoming a beacon in the entertainment industry, overcoming racial discrimination and financial hurdles along the way. ??

                    Have you ever questioned your path in life or career? This episode takes you on a compelling narrative with Mike Barker, whose life story embodies resilience and strategic self-branding. Discover how Mike navigated through adversities, including racial discrimination and financial constraints, to rub shoulders with the likes of Beyonce and Cardi B. Host Jay Hicks, alongside Mike, unpacks the essence of gratitude, empathy, and emotional discipline in sculpting a successful life and career. This conversation is not just about the climb to success; it's about the values and personal brand that guide you through it. Tune in for an episode filled with real-life lessons and inspirational anecdotes. ??

                    Key Takeaways:

                    • ? Gratitude and empathy as essential tools for connecting with others.
                    • ? The critical role of finding purpose in one's journey to success.
                    • ? Understanding emotional discipline as a path to personal growth.
                    • ? The strategic art of personal branding and its impact on one's career.
                    • ? Embracing struggles as formative experiences shaping life and career.

                      • Guest Bio: Mike Barker, renowned in the entertainment circle for his strategic mastery in sales, events, and media, has over 15 years of rich industry experience. Having worked with icons like Janet Jackson and Usher, Mike's expertise shines through his philanthropic efforts and his best-selling book "4 Strategies to Personal Branding and Marketing Strategies." His story is one of resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of success.

                      Guest Quotes:

                      • "If people don't give you the roses, you got to give it to yourself." - Mike Barker
                      • "At the end of the day, we all have issues; it just has to be fine-tuned if you want to have a successful life." - Mike Barker
                      • "Don't hate anyone because of their success - be inspired!" - Mike Barker
                      • "Shape your life around the thing or purpose that is most important for you." - Jay Hicks
                      • "Gratitude is what you have to practice to get results." - Jay Hicks

                        • CTA for Show: Don't miss out on the riveting stories and life lessons shared in The Tragedy Academy Podcast. Subscribe now, leave a review, and spread the word! Dive deep into the human experience with Jay Hicks and his guests as they share their journeys of triumph over tragedy. Be cool and keep learning. ???

                        CTA for Guest: Explore the world of personal branding with Mike Barker! Follow him on social media, visit his website for insightful resources, and dive into his best-selling book "4 Strategies to Personal Branding and Marketing Strategies." Connect with Mike and embark on your journey to success. ???

                        Conclusion: Join us next week for another enriching The Tragedy Academy Podcast episode. Immerse yourself in the stories of resilience, purpose, and success as we continue to explore the vast landscape of the human experience. Remember, your past does not define your future. Be cool and keep learning. See you in the next episode! ?

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                          48 min
                        • Sara Donna: Everyone Needs an Awkward Phase

                          In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks is joined by the versatile and vibrant Sarah Donna, a five-time Miss Michigan professional ring girl and circus trapeze artist. Discover an accomplished guest's humorous and humble side as she shares insights into her multifaceted life and the importance of authenticity. ??

                          Embark on a journey with Sarah Donna, whose life is as colorful as her various titles suggest. From small-town gamer to beauty queen and acrobat, Sarah breaks down stereotypes and offers a candid look into her world. She delves into the importance of embracing one's awkward phase, finding authenticity in the bustling life of L.A., and her humorous take on life's many adventures. This episode is packed with laughter, surprising revelations, and thought-provoking discussions on everything from personal identity to conspiracy theories and 90s fashion trends. Listeners are in for an entertaining and insightful session with Sarah, whose stories are as inspiring as they are entertaining.

                          Key Takeaways:

                          - ? [01:00] Sarah's journey to winning five Miss Michigan titles and her experience in various competitions.

                          - ? [02:30] Insights into Sarah's awe-inspiring career as a trapeze artist and the recognition she modestly acknowledges.
                          - ? [07:04] Sarah and Jay's light-hearted discussion on their unique funeral wishes, including thirst traps and celebrity cameos.
                          - ? [08:31] The significance of going through an awkward phase and how it contributes to becoming a well-adjusted adult.
                          - ? [15:04] The transformative move to L.A. that helped Sarah discover and embrace her true self.
                          - ? [23:46] A dive into the intriguing world of CIA conspiracies, the Gateway documents, and recent UFO government releases.
                          - ? [34:00] Sarah's commitment to staying true to her authentic self, reflecting on childhood authenticity and societal pressures.
                          - ? [37:00] Sarah's observations on changing perceptions and interactions from her childhood to her current success.
                          - ? [40:00] A nostalgic look back at 90s trends and Sarah's personal fashion preferences.

                           

                          Guest Bio:

                          Sarah Donna is a multi-talented individual who has made her mark as a five-time Miss Michigan, professional ring girl, and trapeze artist. Beyond her impressive accolades, Sarah is known for her humor, humility, and commitment to authenticity. Growing up in a small town, she navigated through an awkward phase to become the confident, multifaceted woman she is today. Her journey is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself amidst the various roles and expectations life throws our way.

                          Guest Quotes:

                          - "For every title I've won, I've learned that it's not the crown that defines you; it's the journey." - Sarah Donna

                          - "Embracing your awkward phase is like giving yourself permission to grow into whoever you want to be." - Sarah Donna
                          - "Life is about wearing your true self proudly, no matter the stage or spotlight." - Sarah Donna

                          Join us on this incredible journey of laughter, life lessons, and learning with Sarah Donna. Subscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast on your favorite platform, leave a review to share your thoughts, and spread the word to friends and family. Stay tuned for more unique stories and insights. "Be cool and keep learning." ??

                          **CTA for Guest:**

                          Discover more about Sarah Donna's exciting life and career by visiting her IMDb page, following her on Instagram and TikTok at SarahDonnaOfficial, and checking out her work. Her journey from the pageant stage to the circus tent is sure to inspire and entertain!

                          Thank you for joining us for another episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast. We hope Sarah's story has inspired you to embrace your journey, no matter how varied or unconventional it may be. Tune in next week for more inspiring tales and thought-provoking conversations. Until then, "Be cool and keep learning." ?

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                          47 min
                        • Journey of Resilience: Jazmine Brown’s Empowering Story

                          In this moving episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks is joined by the inspirational Jazmine Brown of "Just Jazz". Together, they delve into Jazmine's personal narrative of overcoming adversity, utilizing her platform to empower and uplift others through authenticity. ??

                          **Engaging and Enticing Verbiage:**

                          Join Jay and Jazmine as they navigate through a heartfelt conversation that covers Jazmine's challenging journey from her health struggles starting at birth to becoming an empowering figure in the community. This episode is a deep dive into the power of resilience, the importance of healthcare and foster care advocacy, and the impact of personal growth and empowerment. The dialogue moves from moments of vulnerability to strength, all while highlighting the importance of authenticity and support in overcoming life's hurdles. Listeners will surely be moved by the profound experiences and lessons shared, making this an episode not to be missed.

                          Key Takeaways:

                          - ? [03:08] Jazmine's challenging start to life and her extended hospital stay.

                          - ?? [04:00] The discovery of Jazmine's conditions and the necessity of a breathing tube for survival.
                          - ?? [04:48] Jay's empathetic response to Jazmine's childhood health challenges.
                          - ??? [05:25] The transformative relationship between Jazmine and her respiratory therapist turned foster parent.
                          - ? [06:49] Jazmine's adoption story and the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
                          - ? [11:44] Jazmine's humorous take on her uniqueness and stature.
                          - ? [24:35] Insights on self-perception and the revelation that what we see in ourselves isn't always reflected in others' eyes.
                          - ? [44:35] A discussion on perspective and the importance of understanding others' situations.

                          **Guest Bio:**

                          Jazmine Brown, the voice behind "Just Jazz", has become a beacon of empowerment and authenticity. Despite a life filled with medical and personal challenges, Jazmine has used her platform on her podcast and YouTube channel to inspire others. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and the unyielding power of a positive mindset.

                          **Guest Quotes:**

                          - ? [19:08] "For my doctor, I am supposed to be the sickest person; but I am one of the healthiest - sickest people." - Jazmine Brown

                          - ? [27:38] "Being in-authentic is a slap on your own reality." - Jazmine Brown
                          - ?? [37:27] "Taking yourself out of the picture and committing suicide because you are not happy is a selfish act." - Jazmine Brown

                          **CTA for Show:**

                          Don't miss a moment of this inspiring journey! Subscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast on your favorite platform to stay updated on all our episodes. Share this story of resilience and inspiration with friends and family, and remember, "Be cool and keep learning." Your support helps us continue bringing these important stories to light. ?

                          **CTA for Guest:**

                          To learn more about Jazmine Brown and her empowering work, follow her journey on YouTube at "Just Jazz" and connect with her on Twitter and Instagram @TheRealJazBrown. Dive into the world of someone who turns adversity into empowerment and be inspired to do the same in your life. ?

                          **Conclusion:**

                          Thank you for tuning into The Tragedy Academy Podcast. We hope Jazmine's story has inspired you to face challenges with courage and to find your authentic voice. Join us next time for another episode filled with real stories of struggle, triumph, and the human experience. "Be cool and keep learning" and continue to grow with us. ???

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                          - [The Tragedy Academy Official Website](https://www.thetragedyacademy.com)

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                          58 min

                        About Tragedy Academy

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                        The Tragedy Academy Podcast explores the human experience through the lens of tragedy and triumph. Hosted by Jay Hicks, a voice artist, music producer, and multimedia…