In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with the incredible Alaina G. Levine, an award-winning professional speaker, career coach, science writer, TEDx speaker, author, and corporate comedian. Alaina's story is a tapestry woven from diverse threads, reflecting her rich background

Alaina opens up about her early life and the role of faith in shaping her worldview, providing insights into her background. She takes us through the profound struggle she faced when dealing with the loss of her beloved mother, a pivotal moment that forever altered the course of her life.

The heart of this episode centers on Alaina's journey of emerging from this deep personal struggle. She shares how she found beauty amidst the pain and grew as an individual. Her unwavering faith played a crucial role in sustaining her during this challenging period.

We explore the powerful concept of reframing one's life experiences, finding purpose even in moments of adversity, and how faith can be a guiding light during the darkest of times.

Alaina has become a sought-after speaker and career development expert, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. With her speaking, coaching and two books, "Networking for Nerds" and "Create Your Unicorn Career!" (forthcoming), she continues to inspire and guide others on their own journeys to success.

Throughout the episode, Alaina's wisdom and experiences are sure to inspire and resonate with listeners. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and the art of reframing life's challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose.

Find Alaina here:

linkedin.com/in/alainaglevineinstagram.com/alainaglevine

twitter: @AlainaGLevine

www.alainalevine.com

This week's episode features my conversation with Ashley Isaiah. As a beacon of inspiration, Ashley has embarked on an incredible journey, beginning with the profound process of self-discovery and culminating in the role of a powerful advocate. From a young age, Ashley recognized his true identity, setting the stage for a personal odyssey that would shape his future. Today, he stands as the LGBTQ+ Program Coordinator at RWJ University Hospital in New Jersey, a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to helping others.

As we delve into Ashley's narrative, we witness his transformative path, which led him to his current role. His dedication shines through as he manages the day-to-day operations and outreach for the RWJUH PROUD

His journey serves as a powerful reminder that self-discovery can lead to profound advocacy, impacting not just your life, but the community around you. Through his remarkable story, we gain insight into the challenges he's faced, the strength he's drawn upon, and the transformative change he's bringing to the world.

*** TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE DISCUSSION****

In this episode Alex Reegan delves deep into his personal journey of grappling with self-acceptance and healing. Drawing from his experiences growing up in a religious environment that challenged his authenticity, Alex candidly shares his quest to answer a powerful question: "If I gave myself mercy, who would I be?" Join him as he reflects on his ongoing pursuit of self-compassion and the profound transformation that emerges when we grant ourselves the grace we deserve.

Step into an engaging episode as we sit down with Nikki La Croce, the remarkable podcaster behind 'Who The F*ck?'. Join us for a candid conversation where Nikki opens up about her childhood marked by not fitting in—whether in her community, her religion, or even her own gender identity. Experience her journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and the quest for belonging. Tune in to hear how Nikki emerged triumphant, embracing her authentic self, and transcending her struggles to find a newfound sense of belonging, self-love, and the power of connection.

Connect with Nikki here:

Who The F*ck? Website: https://whothefck.com/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@whothefck_pod 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4AoCyjomidBPoTTTxaJvLy 
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/who-the-f-ck/id1481019182?uo=4 
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kY2IzOGY4L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi51bjBlsb_AhX1lo4IHWXYDeMQ9sEGegQIARAC 

In this heartwarming episode of "What Needs To Be Said," we dive into the extraordinary life of Elena Joy Thurston, a woman who has faced tremendous struggles with religious trauma in the Mormon Church

Pride & Joy Foundation HTTP://www.PrideandJoyFoundation.com

The Elena Joy Experience  http://www.elenajoyexperience.com

Pride & Joy Parents event  www.prideandjoyparents.com

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenajoythurston/

 https://www.instagram.com/pridejoyfoundation/

 https://www.facebook.com/PrideJoyFound

Her podcast: http://www.outofqueeriosity.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenajoyspeaks/

TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIhPZMC4UEg

Step into the world of my friendship with my best friend, Nate, and my amazing wife, Dorris, in this raw and unfiltered conversation where we explore the freedom surrender offers and our observable resistance to

Together, we delve into the depths of what surrender truly means and how it feels in the midst of life's challenges. We share our personal journeys, discussing the contrasting emotions of loss and liberation that surrender can invoke, and contemplate the intriguing question of whether surrendering is a powerful form of being present.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of topics as we touch on a pirate parlay, stern nuns, and even dive into the intriguing idea of the possibility of there being no free will. This episode is a true adventure as we share our perspectives on surrender, the mysteries of life, and what it means to embrace the power of letting go. Get ready to be inspired as we put our heads together and try to put words to an often elusive spiritual concept. 

In this episode, which is part 2 of my origin, I delve into the lifelong sense of impending doom that has haunted me, stemming from my religious upbringing and the belief that I was inherently flawed and irreparable. With vulnerability, I recount the heartache I faced while discovering and accepting my queer identity, which added an extra layer of feeling irredeemable. Throughout this episode, I explore the transformative power of healing, acknowledging that it often occurs in waves, unveiling new aspects of pain from our origins as we navigate through different phases of life. My intention in sharing these personal stories is to normalize the cycles of origin, struggle, and emergence, with the hope that you, the listener, can find empowerment in acknowledging and embracing your own journeys with grace and mercy. 

Join me on this glimpse into my transformative journey of

Find more from me on my website: www.alexreegan.com

And buy my book "What Needs To Be Said" everywhere books are sold.

Step into the intriguing world of authenticity and self-discovery as I sit down with the extraordinary Jillian Abby on this thought-provoking episode of the "What Needs to be Said" podcast. Brace yourself for an intimate conversation that unravels the complexities of perfectionism and the relentless pursuit of external validation. Witness the defining moment when Jillian, in her late 30s, fearlessly embraced her true identity as a lesbian, paving the way for a profound metamorphosis that would forever change her life. With raw vulnerability and unwavering resilience, she sheds light on the transformative power of self-acceptance, leading her to not only find her authentic self but also a deep spiritual connection and an unexpected love. Be prepared to be inspired, moved, and empowered as we journey through the extraordinary narrative of Jillian Abby.

You can find Jillian here: https://linktr.ee/jillianabby

Embark on an inspiring journey with Dorris Muramatsu, a former musician, visionary artist, and spiritual explorer. Join us as we explore her incredible story, from her years touring with Girlyman, a folk pop band known for their introspective songs, to her profound insights into creativity, belonging, and happiness.

Join us in this captivating episode as we dive into the life

In this enlightening conversation, Emily shares her personal evolution and the transformative moments that shaped her worldview. From her upbringing in the Presbyterian Church to her exploration of shamanism and

Together, we explore topics that resonate with Emily's experiences, such as purity culture, alternative motherhood, reproductive rights, and the profound relationship between creativity and serving a higher power. Emily's insights and reflections shed light on her journey of breaking free from societal constraints, transcending patriarchal patterns, and finding her authentic path.

Prepare to be inspired as we uncover the intersection of artistry, spirituality, and personal growth in this thought-provoking episode featuring the soulful Emily Scott Robinson.

Connect with Emily at www.emilyscottrobinson.com

 Or on Instagram @emilyscottrobinson