Learn how others are overcoming or have overcome a variety of life happenings. Everyone has a story that someone needs to hear. Let those stories inspire you to, 1) know you are not alone in whatever life topic you are experiencing, 2) know there are multiple solutions all of life dilemmas, and, 3) learn about critical thinking skills to make informed life decisions.
Marissa Levin chronicles her 30+ years of entrepreneurial experience and how she transitioned through this period. In 2012, she launched Successful Culture, a leadership consulting organization that helped CEOs master the 3 most critical aspects of business growth: leadership development, strategy formulation and execution, and corporate culture creation & improvement. She developed a global C-level coaching and consulting practice based on her successful experience building a multimillion-dollar consulting firm and her strength of connecting with leaders to help them move beyond the barriers impeding their personal and organizational growth. In 2012, she joined “Washington Business Report” on ABC as the region’s Small Business Expert, alongside anchor Rebecca Cooper. In her weekly segment, she addressed the challenges of small business growth and invited leaders to join her to share their business experiences. In 2023, she co-founded i5 Conscious Leadership, a leadership education, coaching, and consulting firm, with her long-time friend. Guided by a mission to elevate the world's consciousness through leadership, I5 Conscious Leadership bridges self-consciousness and organizational consciousness for leaders ready to embrace higher-level leadership to achieve exceptional employee engagement and business growth. I5 strengthens and elevates leaders throughout organizations to a higher level of presence, consciousness, and performance through developing and strengthening their Identity, Intention, Integrity, InSight, and Inspiration. Her inspirational for these life successes came through her dad’s inspiration. He passed at age 94 with a legacy of giving to and thinking of others. Marrisa is passing on that legacy to others through her coaching business. You can learn more about Marissa at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissalevin1/ and https://marissainternational.com/.
11/19/24 • 38:31
Nothing made sense in Micah Marshall’s life until he discovered he was on the spectrum when he was 22 years old. You might relate to that if you have been diagnosed late as well. Several tests were done when he was three due to some behavioral symptoms without explanation. Micah’s mission is to help everyone know they are deeply valued and discover their potential through personal growth and success! For Micah, autism isn't a different way of seeing the world: it's a marring of the human brain and psyche that produces a traumatized life experience. There are many good things we, people on the spectrum, can still pull out of our experiences. In this context, disability is only a mindset. Micah formerly owned and operated Marshall Health Insurance to help anyone and everyone find the right coverage. He dissolved that business because of reaching burnout. As a John Maxwell Certified Team Member, he speaks to autism professionals, parents with kids on the spectrum, and business leaders across the United States. He is writing the book Growing on the Spectrum, which is projected to be released in August 2025. It will be the first-ever personal growth book for kids and adults on the spectrum! The book will include topics on neurodiversity, faith, personal growth, and mental health. Micah also blogs regularly about neurodiversity, positive attitudes, and mental health. He is a pioneer for personal growth and success for those on the spectrum. You can learn more about Micah at www.micahmarshall.com
11/14/24 • 44:54
Alan Lazaros is a business coach, consultant, trainer, and speaker specializing in helping businesses maximize their growth, impact, and profitability online. He believes in a heart-driven approach to inspiring, motivating, and educating others on what is required to reach the next level. When he was two years old, his father passed away in a car accident. At age 26, after getting into a nearly fatal car accident himself, he questioned everything he was doing in life. It was a moment of comprehensive introspection to determine his worth and direction. He asked who he was and the choices he was making and had made. He was at an all-time low. Filled with regret, he searched for answers and found two of the brightest lights he had ever seen. The first bright light was a book by Bronnie Ware entitled, “The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying,” and the second was a Ted Talk by Tony Robbins. These resources helped him find his way and guided him to go ALL IN on self-improvement to design a life of meaning and purpose. On this self-improvement journey, he has learned to believe in a heart-driven approach to inspiring, motivating, and educating others on what is required to reach the Next Level. Today, he proudly says his mission is to help others create a life of success and fulfillment. He learned the hard way how empty success without fulfillment is and how to limit fulfillment without success as well. You can learn more about Alan at https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/.
11/12/24 • 28:22
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD, is a high-energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken over 400 times worldwide about supporting neurodivergent people. Dr. Zakreski graduated from Widener University’s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology (IGCP) in 2016. He co-founded The Neurodiversity Collective, which provides therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting. You bring your brain with you wherever you go, whether you're a student in school, a professional adult, or someone trying to determine your way in the world. But rarely do we get enough information to understand and process what our brains do for us and how they manifest in the world. Dr. Matt is one of the world's foremost experts in neurodivergence for people with different brains (think ADHD, Giftedness, Dyslexia, Autism, etc.) and how to meet their needs socially, professionally, and emotionally. He combines neuropsychology, clinical practice, and meaningful exercises to make educational, inspirational, and entertaining content. The Neurodiversity Collective (NDC) has been a long-time dream of this "grown-up gifted kid." Under Dr. Matt's leadership, NDC stands out as a group of informed, compassionate, and skilled specialists prepared to serve unique needs. There is a neurodiversity employment network headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. You can reach them at https://neurodiversityemploymentnetwork.org/. Auticon is an IT consulting business and social enterprise that exclusively employs adults on the autism spectrum in permanent roles as IT consultants. They are at https://auticon.com/. Aspiritech focuses on neurodiverse teamwork. Aspiritech’s donors allow that nonprofit to provide the essential support and programs that make us a leading provider of meaningful employment for autistic adults. If you can, please support our mission today. You can learn more about Dr. Matt at https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/ and https://ghfdialogue.org/author/drmatt/.
11/5/24 • 51:46
Dr. Fidele Sebahizi grew up in a poor African village, living and surviving an ethnically motivated massacre in a United Nations refugee camp of Gatumba in Burundi, Africa. Fidele overcame life obstacles as an immigrant in the United States to achieve the American dream. He became the first immigrant to join and work for the Abilene Police Department (APD) in Texas as a police officer and the first member of his ethnic group, the Banyamulenge, in the United States to serve the American community in such a capacity. While working for the APD, Fidele earned multiple degrees: a B.A. in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University in New Hampshire, an M.S. in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University in Texas, and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice — Homeland Security from Liberty University in Virginia. A father and a husband, Fidele likes to listen to country music during his free time. His book - Creating a Life from the Ashes: A Memoir, will be available for purchase in October 2024. will be available for sale in October 2024. You can learn more about Dr. Fidele Sebahizi at https://www.linkedin.com/in/fidele-sebahizi-1376671b6/ and https://x.com/fidele_sebahizi?lang=en.
10/31/24 • 38:14
Michaela Cox was born blind and widowed early by the love of her life in her second marriage. She is now a single mother and author. She is a multi-published author and speaker. She writes on various passionate topics and often takes from her life experience and journey. She is the author of five series, including 'Take a Sip, Take a Breath and Go...' series on motherhood, "Before the Clock Strikes Midnight" series on parenting and leaving a legacy for our babies, "Scripture, Spirituality and Our Culture" on our faith, beliefs, scripture and our culture, "We the People - Defining and Exploring Who we the People Are" as a people, society, and a nation, and the series 'Now I See.' Her other publications include "Living the Beach Life and Heartfelt Meditations." She has a passion for sharing her story and message of 38DDD: A journey of going from much tribulation to thriving in everything to help inspire and empower people on their journey. In addition to being an author and speaker, Michaela is a mother to her two children. You can learn more about Michaela at https://davidpasqualone.com/content-type-media/podcasts/michaela-cox-thriving-in-life-after-38ddd-disability-divorce-death-bonus-episode-61/ and https://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-78-my-guest-michaela-cox-speaks-about-her-38ddd-journey--47473439.
10/29/24 • 44:32
Lisa Lynch’s journey to recovery began after she was in a boating accident and suffered a spinal cord and pelvis injury that left her dependent on a wheelchair. She soon learned that sand and wheels don't mix well. She also learned that she didn’t think she could enjoy the beach life any longer. Her 13-year (as of this writing) healing journey took her on many different paths. She discovered solutions to enjoy life again and get back to the water. Lisa's Beach Highways was formed in 2019 to offer accessibility/inclusion to those who love the salt life! She is an advocate and her vision is to get the entire state of Florida accessible within the next 10 years!! The sky is the limit!! Please follow her and watch her FLY!!!!! You can learn more about Lisa at https://www.youtube.com/@lisalynch2858/about?app=desktop.
10/24/24 • 48:17
Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate researching online education and writing instruction for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Dr. Scott consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organizations on issues of autism, neurodiversity, and active inclusion. Parenting Neurodiverse children — those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing issues, and learning disabilities — presents challenges. As a diagnosed autistic person with ADHD and physical disabilities, Dr. Scott brings his experiences as a parent, researcher, educator, and Neurodiversity self-advocacy to an audience. He and his wife chose to be parents, fostering and then adopting two daughters. Audiences ask why an autistic person would want to be a father. Dr. Scott’s experiences and academic credentials empower him to advocate for their daughters in a school system that too often fails to provide reasonable support. Even well-intentioned parents, teachers, and researchers don't always understand what Neurodiverse minds and bodies experience. As a speaker with more than 150 regional and national appearances and 15 years of consulting experience, Dr. Scott discusses autism, parenting, and education from the autistic perspective. The Autistic Me blog was launched in January 2007 when he began working for others with special needs. He completed his doctoral studies in 2010 at the University of Minnesota. While a doctoral student, he conducted two grant-funded research projects on autism and instructional technology. He publishes in academic journals, co-edited a scholarly collection, and has presented numerous conference papers. Reflecting his passion for digital media, he completed a Master of Fine Arts in film and digital technology, a Master of Arts in English composition theory and rhetoric, and undergraduate degrees in English and journalism. You can learn more about Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt at https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/about/, https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/english/profile/christopher-wyatt/, and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EvdCzSe8zU.
10/22/24 • 37:19
Paul Granger describes his emotions and learning from his life experiences of enduring a stillborn childbirth and job termination from a toxic ministry experience. He and his wife prayed fervently for God to restore or create a heartbeat for their child in the womb of his wife. They prayed for and “claimed” that God could and would make a heartbeat. That did not happen. So, did God not hear or not care about their prayer? This resulted in a time of deep introspection from which they gained insights into God and oneness with Him. Following that experience, he experienced a job termination from a toxic ministry environment. Again, he and his wife are left with a “what now?” experience. Through these two life traumas, God impressed on Paul and his wife a renewal of their spirits and relationship with the God who created them and whose thoughts and ways are above ours. Through these two life experiences, Paul ministers to those experiencing similar hurting experiences. You can learn more about Paul at instagram.com/wheredidyouseeGod, https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-granger-804, and https://www.facebook.com/ptgranger.
10/17/24 • 35:15
Jordan Wilson is a modern-day prodigal son. He was raised in a Christian family with wholesome values. He felt somewhat protected and isolated from the world at an earlier age. Accordingly, he thought he needed to experience the world by engaging in different life events. That included drugs and alcohol. Through his mother’s prayers and fasting and his revitalized life in Jesus Christ, he developed a tenacious attitude to reverse his addiction and live his life for Christ. That transformation began on March 27, 2016 (his dad’s birthday). He chronicles his past life and his transformation into his new life in Christ in his book Jesus > Drugs: The Only War Won By Surrender. This inspiring true story takes the reader on a journey through drug and alcohol addiction, recovery, and freedom. The author shares a gripping first-hand account of drug use and his relationship with Jesus Christ, who set him free from it all. This true story is a must-read for anyone needing hope amid chaos. Jesus saves even the addicted sinner, and this book demonstrates God's abundant love, grace, and goodness. Jordan is a dynamic keynote speaker who takes his audience on a journey through drug and alcohol addiction, recovery, and freedom. He shares first-hand accounts of drug use and his relationship with Jesus Christ, who set him free from it all. As a speaker at your event, Jordan will encourage those who need hope amid chaos while sharing the gospel. He shows that Jesus saves even the addicted sinner and offers a glimpse of God’s abundant love and grace. You can learn more about Jordan at https://jesusisgreaterthan.org/.
10/16/24 • 30:45
Donene Taylor is a Professional Author and Speaker who delivers energizing, fun, inspirational, and motivational presentations to many different organizations and teams. She joined the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association in 1998 and became a Women’s Professional Rodeo Association World Champion Tie-Down Calf Roper in 2016. Donene is also a 4-time WPRA Mountain States Circuit Champion Tie-Down Calf Roper. At 14, she dreamed of becoming a World Champion Tie-down Calf Roper in the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. She had many ups and downs. She stalled at times, but she never stopped. But she never became a World Champion, not in her 20s, 30s, or even her 40s. Though she kept on going, sometimes she made progress quickly, and sometimes she made progress slowly. She never reached her goal until one day when she was 52 years old. At 52 years old, she finally got what she wanted. She became a World Champion Tie Down Calf Roper. She continues to live “Happily Ever After” with her family in Wyoming. Developing mental toughness allows us to run down our dreams and ride out the highs and lows we experience. Donene is a certified mental performance coach. She coaches athletes with tried and true, proven strategies that help them close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. She empowers athletes to reach their full potential as they run down their Bold Goals to become the best version of themselves. You can learn more about Donene through her book, The Heart of a Champion, and at https://donenetaylor.com/.
10/15/24 • 64:39
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD, is a high-energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken over 400 times worldwide about supporting neurodivergent people. Dr. Zakreski graduated from Widener University’s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology (IGCP) in 2016. He co-founded The Neurodiversity Collective, which provides therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting. You bring your brain with you wherever you go, whether you're a student in school, a professional adult, or someone trying to determine your way in the world. But rarely do we get enough information to understand and process what our brains do for us and how they manifest in the world. Dr. Matt is one of the world's foremost experts in neurodivergence for people with different brains (think ADHD, Giftedness, Dyslexia, Autism, etc.) and how to meet their needs socially, professionally, and emotionally. He combines neuropsychology, clinical practice, and meaningful exercises to make educational, inspirational, and entertaining content. The Neurodiversity Collective (NDC) has been a long-time dream of this "grown-up gifted kid." Under Dr. Matt's leadership, NDC stands out as a group of informed, compassionate, and skilled specialists prepared to serve unique needs. There is a neurodiversity employment network headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. You can reach them at the Neurodiversity employment network in Philadelphia, PA. You can reach them at https://neurodiversityemploymentnetwork.org/. Auticon is an IT consulting business and social enterprise that exclusively employs adults on the autism spectrum in permanent roles as IT consultants. They are at https://auticon.com/. Aspiritech focuses on neurodiverse teamwork. Aspiritech’s donors allow that nonprofit to provide the essential support and programs that make us a leading provider of meaningful employment for autistic adults. If you can, please support our mission today. You can learn more about Dr. Matt at https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/ and https://ghfdialogue.org/author/drmatt/.
10/10/24 • 47:04
Scott and Randy Baker met when they were 16 and married in 1997. Through their marriage journey, they are learning to adapt to each other as they each learn to adapt to and be aware of their childhood culture. Scott is reserved, while Randy is outgoing by personality type. Randy reminisces about her childhood experiences and her response to her encounters. As frequently happens, our past and its adverse consequences become a part of our subconscious behavior. Those subconscious thoughts can dominate our current thinking. We carry those thoughts into our marriage and other relationships until we introspectively assess our lives. Scott and Randy describe some of those unconscious thoughts and how they have impacted their current thinking. They have each made conscious choices to be a “chain breaker” of those behaviors they will not carry forward. For Randy, her dad, who is no longer living, had and still has a significant impact on her life. As she recalls his favorable legacy, some of his life's less-than-favorable aspects can be activated, which impacts their current behaviors. One of the most significant takeaways of this podcast is the impact men and dads have on other’s lives.
10/8/24 • 37:38
Alan Lazaros is a business coach, consultant, trainer, and speaker specializing in helping businesses maximize their growth, impact, and profitability online. He believes in a heart-driven approach to inspiring, motivating, and educating others on what is required to reach the next level. When he was two years old, his father passed away in a car accident. At age 26, after getting into a nearly fatal car accident himself, he questioned everything he was doing in life. It was a moment of comprehensive introspection to determine his worth and direction. He asked who he was and the choices he was making and had made. He was at an all-time low. Filled with regret, he searched for answers and found two of the brightest lights he had ever seen. The first bright light was a book by Bronnie Ware entitled, “The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying,” and the second was a Ted Talk by Tony Robbins. These resources helped him find his way and guided him to go ALL IN on self-improvement to design a life of meaning and purpose. On this self-improvement journey, he has learned to believe in a heart-driven approach to inspiring, motivating, and educating others on what is required to reach the Next Level. Today, he proudly says his mission is to help others create a life of success and fulfillment. He learned the hard way how empty success without fulfillment is and how to limit fulfillment without success as well. You can learn more about Alan at https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/.
10/3/24 • 37:47
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD, is a high-energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken over 400 times worldwide about supporting neurodivergent people. Dr. Zakreski graduated from Widener University’s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology (IGCP) in 2016. He co-founded The Neurodiversity Collective, which provides therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting. You bring your brain with you wherever you go, whether you're a student in school, a professional adult, or someone trying to determine your way in the world. But rarely do we get enough information to understand and process what our brains do for us and how they manifest in the world. Dr. Matt is one of the world's foremost experts in neurodivergence for people with different brains (think ADHD, Giftedness, Dyslexia, Autism, etc.) and how to meet their needs socially, professionally, and emotionally. He combines neuropsychology, clinical practice, and meaningful exercises to make educational, inspirational, and entertaining content. The Neurodiversity Collective (NDC) has been a long-time dream of this "grown-up gifted kid." Under Dr. Matt's leadership, NDC stands out as a group of informed, compassionate, and skilled specialists prepared to serve unique needs. You can learn more about Dr. Matt at https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/ and https://ghfdialogue.org/author/drmatt/.
10/1/24 • 40:21
Iryna Ishchenko was born in Kazakhstan and then moved to Ukraine with her family when she was one year old. She knows how it is to grieve your parents when they are still alive, but they are no longer your parents because of bodily function deterioration. They are not the ones you have known and loved for your entire life. She knows what it’s like to fear your own emotions because you have always thought it was wrong and unacceptable to have such strong negative feelings about your parents. She exhausted herself and carried enormous guilt for not being fully present in the lives of her young child and her spouse. Her plans and her professional aspirations were put on hold indefinitely. She knows how it feels to receive unsolicited advice from relatives and well-meaning strangers who tell her she is doing everything wrong. Surprisingly, they didn’t try to do it right themselves. She knows it all because she’s experienced this in her life. And while she was there, she desperately wished someone would help her survive that madness. Having learned from her past, she intends to help others in a similar situation. You can learn more about Iryna Ishchenko at https://irynaishchenko.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/irynaishchenko/.
9/26/24 • 32:56
Brittney Phillips is a certified life coach, certified stepparent coach, and founder of Blending Bravely, a coaching and education company specializing in empowering women of faith in blended families. With a heartfelt commitment to helping moms in blended families find peace, strengthen their sanity, and deepen their faith, Brittney offers a transformative approach that fosters strong connections within stepfamilies. Drawing from her own experience as a former educator and blending her own family, Brittney brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by women of faith in blended families. Through her tailored online courses and personalized 1:1 coaching, she guides and supports her clients to gain confidence, clarity, and resilience. These women are empowered to positively impact their blended family dynamic and all aspects of their lives by strengthening themselves. Brittney's ultimate goal is to help 1,000 blended families stay together and thrive, joining the 30% of blended family couples with successful, long-lasting marriages. Her unique approach, her journey, and unwavering faith position her as a valuable resource for women of faith navigating the complex challenges of blending families. You can learn more about Brittney at www.blendingbravely.com, https://www.amazon.com/arya/webplayer?ref_=adbl_podcast_cloudplayer_dt&asin=B0CSWM55J4&useRelativeUrl=true&amazonAsin=B0CSWLM37N&marketplaceId=AF2M0KC94RCEA&initialCPLaunch=true, and https://thestepfamilysummit.com/brittney-phillips-2023/.
9/24/24 • 35:15
Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate researching online education and writing instruction for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Dr. Scott consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organizations on issues of autism, neurodiversity, and active inclusion. Parenting Neurodiverse children — those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing issues, and learning disabilities — presents challenges. As a diagnosed autistic person with ADHD and physical disabilities, Dr. Scott brings his experiences as a parent, researcher, educator, and Neurodiversity self-advocacy to an audience. He and his wife chose to be parents, fostering and then adopting two daughters. Audiences ask why an autistic person would want to be a father. Dr. Scott’s experiences and academic credentials empower him to advocate for their daughters in a school system that too often fails to provide reasonable support. Even well-intentioned parents, teachers, and researchers don't always understand what Neurodiverse minds and bodies experience. As a speaker with more than 150 regional and national appearances and 15 years of consulting experience, Dr. Scott discusses autism, parenting, and education from the autistic perspective. The Autistic Me blog was launched in January 2007 when he began working for others with special needs. He completed his doctoral studies in 2010 at the University of Minnesota. While a doctoral student, he conducted two grant-funded research projects on autism and instructional technology. He publishes in academic journals, co-edited a scholarly collection, and has presented numerous conference papers. Reflecting his passion for digital media, he completed a Master of Fine Arts in film and digital technology, a Master of Arts in English composition theory and rhetoric, and undergraduate degrees in English and journalism. You can learn more about Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt at https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/about/, https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/english/profile/christopher-wyatt/, and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EvdCzSe8zU.
9/19/24 • 35:32
Pat Wetzel is an award-winning author who has learned perseverance to get beyond the bumps she is experiencing in life. From Wharton Business School to global finance, from disability to learning to soar (Pat is a sailplane pilot with over a decade of tales to tell), from world travels to travel within, Pat has led an extraordinary life. In her book, she tells the stories of other great people, how they have navigated their bumps in the road, and the wisdom they’ve gained along the way. What’s your bump? Business, personal, sports? One of Pat’s “bumps” was learning to fly. She loved flying high-tech, single-seat, aerodynamic airplanes with no engine. She belonged to a club that owned its airport. The pilots would drink beer and tell stories about their flights. Stories of accomplishment and sometimes fear. Those stories flew with each of us. And those stories sometimes saved our lives. From that, she saw how the power of sharing stories touches, teaches, and guides us. And now, Pat is telling stories on her podcast and in her books under the Bump In The Road brand. Pat’s story includes accomplishment, disability, disappointment, and divorce. It has achievement, spirituality, and, eventually, some wisdom. Add in six years of cancer and a global quest to find her soul that wasn’t "out there," but rather it was "in here." Pat chronicles 15 Stories of Courage, Hope, and Resilience in her book. With over four years of podcast guests, their stories are part of her repertoire in a never-ending search for a better understanding of the bumps we face in this road trip called life. You can learn more about Pat Wetzel at https://bumpintheroad.us/about-3/; you can find her book, “Bump In The Road: 15 Stories of Courage, Hope and Resilience,” at https://www.amazon.com/Bump-Road-Stories-Courage-Resilience/dp/B0CHL7K2F4, you can listen to her “Bump in the Road” podcast at https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/bump-in-the-road-pat-wetzel-2Cw_ZS1vNzM/#_=_.
9/17/24 • 34:12
Janice Angela Burt is an international, inspirational keynote speaker. Her mission is to encourage, provide insight, and uplift others while continuing to work on her personal growth. She was awarded the Catalyst of Courage award by The Los Angeles Tribune and was listed as a Global Woman to Watch in the Washington DC Chronicle. Being raised in Mexico City, as well as being bilingual gives her a multi-dimensional appeal. She speaks on: · Breaking Up is Hard to Do — 5 Habits to Leave Behind to Experience Success without Stress & Burnout · Walking through One Fear Per Year — 7 Life Lessons Learned · Personal Growth = Professional Excellence — Leadership from the Inside Out · Be Brave! Building your Courage Muscle to Increase Productivity, Profits, and Peace in the Workplace She LOVES to bring these messages of hope to audiences, companies, and organizations worldwide. She encourages others to love themselves deeply, experience mental shifts, and do the work of personal development to create a life of fulfillment, joy, and purpose. She does this through storytelling, valuable content & heartfelt connection. To book Janice, contact her at janice@janiceburt.com. You can learn more about Janice at https://www.instagram.com/spanish_janice/ and https://www.facebook.com/Spanishjanice1/.
9/12/24 • 34:17
Michelle Seguin’s son, Devin, in 2013. Devin got a stomach ache following which the medical staff found a cancerous tumor. Five weeks later, the medical staff performed surgery on Devin to remove the tumor. Within 24 hours of removing the tumor, he passed away because his body poisoned itself. His body still was trying to fight a tumor that was removed. There is nothing more painful a parent can go through than the loss of a child. Unfortunately, Michelle became a part of this group. Through her open and honest storytelling, Michelle gives the listener a heartfelt insight into the realities of losing a child, the search for acceptance, and how she created a legacy of love that transcends time. In this podcast, she documents her raw emotions around the loss of her son Devin and shares how his inspirational love for life helped her find herself and truly live. Michelle desires to help others see that a person can go through total devastation, physically, mentally, and emotionally, hit rock bottom, and still find their way to peace after the storm. Like so many others who face this unthinkable reality, Michelle’s grief and trauma affected every part of her life—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. For Michelle, the physical expression in her body showed up through chronic pain and severe fibromyalgia flare-ups that stymied her life. In this podcast, she shares her journey through the dark times and explores how other people express and handle trauma, grief, and sadness. Devin lived ‘Larger Than Life’ during his twenty-three years of life. By navigating the process of grief and seeing her son through the eyes of love and honor, Michelle has found her true, authentic self. Her book Larger Than Life: A Mother’s Love, Loss, and Her Journey Back to Living is Devin’s legacy.
9/10/24 • 36:43
Kristie Guard was raised in a toxic family, and she married into a toxic marriage. She endured nearly 27 years of life not knowing what value she had to anyone. Ten years into a marriage with her high school sweetheart, author Kristie Addair Guard admitted the “happily ever after” just wasn’t, and it didn’t show any signs of getting there. However hard she tried, the lies she’d been given in childhood held a tight grip. Those fears left her enthralled—being unwanted, unloved, abandoned, and unimportant. In a last-ditch effort, she walked away in search of healing and happiness on her own, but instead, she met Jesus, the one who would deliver her from those fears. She learned that God is always at work in hearts. Through His word, therapists, time, and always through His loving, tender, kind presence, He brought Kristie first to her own healing and then to a marriage that wasn’t what she dreamed of but was precisely the best for her. Healing Ever After shares her story of heartbreak, healing, and redemption. It’s a story of Jesus making beauty from ashes—his favorite artistry- available to you, too, wherever you are. You can learn more about Kristie at https://www.instagram.com/kristie.addair.guard/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=0e63c2a4-e868-4ad1-a017-d762662b27b6&ig_mid=16D2DAE1-5E08-465D-AF4C-D28BE5E56031.
9/3/24 • 37:04
Grace Peterson gave birth to a “rainbow baby,” which has come to be known as the child born following a previous loss from a stillbirth or miscarriage. Grace’s child was diagnosed with the rare Trisomy 18 chromosomal disease. Trisomy 18 is a disorder in which babies are born with three copies of chromosome 18 instead of 2. For an unknown reason, this accident occurs at conception, and all cells in the body will have this structure. She wrote the book Behind My Smile: A Rainbow Baby Story as a journal to work through her traumas of the first attempted birth. She had a difficult childhood due to chronic illnesses. She also suffered and courageously left an abusive relationship. She found the one person to share her life with and then tragically lost her daughter in utero through termination for medical reasons (TFMR). The incredible joy of her son's conception shortly after was shadowed by her post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and constant fear that she would lose him. She experienced conflicting emotions simultaneously. Soon after the birth of her rainbow baby, she nearly lost him to a significant illness. She realized her story had the potential to help other women. Through her life experiences, she has found her passion for speaking and eventually determined her strength as a woman and a first-time mother to a rainbow baby. You can learn more about Grace at https://www.instagram.com/gracepetersonrbm/.
8/29/24 • 28:37
Sara Slaybaugh experienced the emotions and discouragement of a toxic marriage. Many of us want a wholesome, long-term relationship to illuminate each other. As a person of faith, Sara hoped to get healthy support from fellow believers. She experienced mixed support from various people. Sara is now remarried with a blended family. Through her life experience, she works with divorced Christian women to coach them to learn how to find a loving and supportive relationship. Based on her experience, she understands the emotions of being a divorced Christian and feeling like an outsider in your previous circles. She coaches others to navigate being a newly single mom while helping them overcome the emotion of not wanting to date again to avoid a similar experience. Many Christian women experience weariness around being vulnerable to experiencing another toxic relationship. No one wants rejection. Through her experience, she developed ways to be practical with time, energy, or emotions to find the right person for a wholesome relationship. She has learned what to look for in a relationship while knowing what and how to say “no.” You can learn more about Sara at https://www.facebook.com/groups/confidenceandconnectionforsinglechristianwomen, YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SaraSlaybaughCoaching, and My free guide: www.saraslaybaugh.com/freeguide.
8/27/24 • 29:49
Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate researching online education and writing instruction for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Dr. Scott consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organizations on issues of autism, neurodiversity, and active inclusion. Parenting Neurodiverse children — those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing issues, and learning disabilities — presents challenges. As a diagnosed autistic person with ADHD and physical disabilities, Dr. Scott brings his experiences as a parent, researcher, educator, and Neurodiversity self-advocacy to an audience. He and his wife chose to be parents, fostering and then adopting two daughters. Audiences ask why an autistic person would want to be a father. Dr. Scott’s experiences and academic credentials empower him to advocate for their daughters in a school system that too often fails to provide reasonable support. Even well-intentioned parents, teachers, and researchers don't always understand what Neurodiverse minds and bodies experience. As a speaker with more than 150 regional and national appearances and 15 years of consulting experience, Dr. Scott discusses autism, parenting, and education from the autistic perspective. The Autistic Me blog was launched in January 2007 when he began working for others with special needs. He completed his doctoral studies in 2010 at the University of Minnesota. While a doctoral student, he conducted two grant-funded research projects on autism and instructional technology. He publishes in academic journals, co-edited a scholarly collection, and has presented numerous conference papers. Reflecting his passion for digital media, he completed a Master of Fine Arts in film and digital technology, a Master of Arts in English composition theory and rhetoric, and undergraduate degrees in English and journalism. You can learn more about Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt at https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/about/, https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/english/profile/christopher-wyatt/, and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EvdCzSe8zU.
8/22/24 • 36:34
Seth Gehle survived substantial childhood abuse and trauma. His father nearly killed his mother when he was two years old. As a result, he grew up with a single mother of three children. When he was approximately ten years old, his mother became abusive and addicted to crack and cocaine. This led him down a path to being molested by a grown man for more than five years resulting in an estimated 400 encounters. Seth developed a resolve to report and incarcerate the abuser. Seth has moved on and done incredible things with his life. Today, he is an aspiring author of his upcoming memoir “Strength Beyond the Shadows.” Seth Gehle is a multifaceted individual whose journey embodies resilience, determination, and triumph. An accomplished ultra-marathon runner, BJJ athlete, and overall fitness enthusiast, Seth's dedication to physical excellence is matched only by his unwavering commitment to personal growth. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Seth has earned national recognition in the construction industry, garnering prestigious awards from esteemed organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders and the Home Builders Institute. You can learn more about Seth at https://www.instagram.com/gobeyondtheshadows/ and https://www.limaohio.com/top-stories/2024/03/01/a-sexual-assault-survivors-story/.
8/20/24 • 46:45
Michael Ostrolenk has been on a journey of self-discovery and is working with others through transpersonal counseling psychology. Having developed an autoimmune disease as a child and possessing divergent learning styles that the rigid educational system couldn’t handle, the conventional wisdom of doctors and educators almost robbed him of his creativity, independence, and, ultimately, his life. Michael has been on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and mastery, starting as a nine-year-old. It began with Michael discovering the power of meditation, guided imagery, and biofeedback. These practices became his way of managing internal states and overcoming challenges. This early fascination sparked a lifelong curiosity about human potential and extraordinary capabilities. His quest led him to become a licensed marriage and family therapist with a transpersonal specialization, diving deep into the mysteries of the human mind and spirit. Along the way, Michael pursued post-graduate training in somatic psychology and earned his coaching certification through New York University (NYU). As a Master Coach at SEALFIT's Unbeatable Mind Academy and Director of Human Resilience at Apeiron Zoh, Michael has the privilege of guiding others on their paths to greatness. Specializing in providing tools, practices, and support, his mission is to propel you toward the life and relationships you yearn to achieve. You can learn more about Michael at michaeldostrolenk.com.
8/15/24 • 41:30
Kelly Tuttle became a brain injury survivor in 2015 after her car T-boned another car that had pulled out in front of her. She thought she would shake off the crash and continue with her life. The next day, her co-workers said she wasn’t talking coherently. So, she saw her doctor, who said she had a concussion, and she should be better in two weeks. Months later, she was living with a stranger in her head; she felt alone and lost. She didn’t like this stranger; she was rude and impatient, had the focus and attention span of a gnat, couldn’t remember anything, was irritable, and slept a lot. She couldn’t arrive on time for appointments or even plan a birthday party. She spent too much money and got into financial trouble. It was terrible to live with her, but over time, she realized she was not a stranger, but she had gotten a “new” brain. She spent years after her car accident seeking help to recover through a neurophysical therapist and speech therapist. She discovered the role of physical medicine, rehabilitation doctors, and behavioral optometrists in caring for brain injury patients. These specialists taught her how to live and work with sound and light sensitivity and chronic fatigue. As time passed, she got better and got to know the new “me.” She is not the same person she was before her brain injury. Her personality and values changed. She became like a sloth rather than the energizer bunny she was before her brain injury. Her traumatic brain injury marked the beginning of a new life and a personal journey of self-discovery. Her brain injury led her to change her career, write a book, and become a brain injury advocate. Her brain injury recovery has been long and challenging, but she likes the new “me” and her new brain. She shares her story so others know there is hope and they are not alone. You can learn more about Kelly in her book After the Crash: How to Keep Your Job, Stay in School, and Live Life After a Brain Injury.
8/13/24 • 43:46
Jeff Pierce has experienced many devastating consequences in his life, including bankruptcy, loss of a business, his wife’s death from cancer, and recovering from a dysfunctional family. Jeff was born in Binghamton, NY, and, due to his father’s employment, attended twelve schools during his 13 years of formal education. Due to the extensive moving, Jeff was always the “tall, skinny new kid on the block” in school. Therefore, Jeff was the recipient of name-calling and belittling before it was even known as “bullying.” In addition to being an author, Jeff is a speaker and inspirational youth leader who believes in instilling positive values, beliefs, and principles in doing something that one loves, which can lead to developing habits that will create everlasting positive results in one life. Through Jeff’s life experience and 35 years as a private business owner and corporate business leader, he recognized the importance of an individual’s values and beliefs toward achieving success and reaching one's dreams, desires, and goals. You can learn more about Jeff through his book Building Champions: 7 Success Principles for Youth Sports & the “Game of Life.”
8/8/24 • 49:57
Mary G. Barlow chronicles her early life dealing with her mom’s death when Mary was seven years old, as well as her adult life in finding peace and joy. Years after her mother died, Mary learned her mom had committed suicide, possibly manifested from postpartum depression following the birth of Mary’s younger brother. Based on her life experience and the ensuing trauma of learning how her mother died, Mary wrote the book, “Home, My Story of House and Personal Restoration.” In writing “Home,” Mary blends literary and medical writing and journalistic talents. As a medical writer, Mary has written extensively for commercial organizations on numerous diseases, life sciences products, and the business of healthcare. She is an expert on how healthcare in the United States works and the challenges related to its accessibility. Before her medical writing career, Mary was a journalist, writing articles for the Blackstone Valley Tribune, a small community newspaper in Northbridge, Massachusetts. She also worked as a freelance reporter, contributing articles to the Telegram and Gazette, a daily paper circulated in Worcester County. Leveraging her journalism skills, Mary researched the historical aspects of “Home.” These include Dutch immigrant life in New England during the early twentieth century and the impact of the Industrial Revolution on a small town’s mill community. You can learn more about Mary Barlow and her book at www.mgbarlow.com.
8/6/24 • 28:46