PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 26 - SEASON 1 FINALE
This episode first aired 08/08/2023:
Season 1: Episode 26
Terry's Story: Shattered, Yet Unyielding: A Survivor's Path to Healing and Hope
In this powerful season 1 finale of our podcast, we introduce you to Terry, a resilient writer and storyteller born and raised in Detroit. Terry's extraordinary journey encompasses survival, healing, and advocacy, as she shares her harrowing experience as a homicide survivor and her unwavering commitment to empowering others who have endured similar trauma. Terry's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the remarkable strength found in embracing one's true self.
Terry's life took a devastating turn when she became a victim of a heinous crime perpetrated by someone she once knew intimately. Through unspeakable pain and unimaginable circumstances, Terry emerged as a survivor, defying the odds and refusing to let her past define her. Her journey towards healing and transformation became the catalyst for her passionate advocacy work, as she strives to be a beacon of hope for fellow survivors of homicide.
Throughout the episode, Terry fearlessly shares her experiences, shining a light on the complexities of her healing journey. With remarkable resilience, she confronts the deep emotional wounds inflicted by the traumatic event, and in doing so, discovers the strength to reclaim her voice and her power. Through her writing and storytelling, Terry finds solace and catharsis, using her artistry as a tool for personal growth and empowerment.
When asked what makes her unique, Terry confidently asserts that her uniqueness lies in simply being herself. She recognizes that no one else possesses the exact combination of experiences, resilience, and perspective that she does. In embracing her authentic self, Terry's story serves as an inspiration for listeners to celebrate their own individuality and find the courage to overcome life's greatest challenges.
Furthermore, Terry's dedication to advocacy shines brightly as she becomes a guiding light for others who have endured similar traumas. Through her work, she helps survivors of homicide find their own path to healing and discover the resilience within themselves. Terry's voice echoes loudly as she raises awareness about the need for support, understanding, and justice for survivors, igniting a spark of hope in communities affected by violence.
Join us on this poignant end of season one of ThoughtVolution as we explore Terry's remarkable journey of triumph and transformation. From the depths of darkness to the embrace of her true self, Terry's story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that lies within each of us. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by Terry's unwavering spirit and her unwavering commitment to uplifting others on their own paths to healing and resilience.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about homicide, murder, violence, suicide, and depression. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Terry and her upcoming podcast 'There is Life After', please email her:
Terry.
(private photo provided by Terry)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 25
This episode first aired 08/01/2023:
Season 1: Episode 25
Gaby's Story: From Loss to Resilience: A Melody of Inspiration
In this captivating episode of our podcast, we unravel the extraordinary journey of Gaby, a 57-year-old Singer/Songwriter and Youth Education Director. Born in Santa Monica, CA, and now residing in Asheville, NC, Gaby's life story weaves together a tapestry of loss, resilience, and the power of rediscovering one's passion.
Gaby's upbringing in the entertainment industry, with a mother who was a Playboy Centerfold, actress, and model, and stepfathers who had their own prominent roles, set the stage for a life filled with captivating tales. However, in 2004, a series of losses shattered Gaby's dream of becoming a singer, silencing her voice for 17 years.
The turning point arrived during the COVID quarantine when Gaby found herself with an unexpected opportunity—a chance to rekindle her love for singing. Overcoming the obstacles that held her back, she taught herself how to record music on her computer, despite not playing any instruments. This newfound resilience led to a powerful moment of creation: Gaby's most special song, a heartfelt tribute to her long-standing acquaintance, Dolly Parton.
Gaby's unique ability to find humor and meaning in even the darkest of times sets her apart.
She shares how her journey back to singing and songwriting became a testament to her strength and determination. Through her story, Gaby highlights the transformative power of art and the healing potential it holds for both creator and audience.
One of the remarkable aspects of Gaby's narrative is her enduring relationship with Dolly Parton. Having forged a connection at the age of 13, Gaby cherishes their bond, and her experiences with Dolly have had a profound impact on her life. This connection serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder that dreams can be pursued at any age.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about miscarriage and the loss of a child. If this subject is a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to learn more about Gaby, her life, and her passion, please check out her TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@gabymichelmusic
Gaby and Dolly.
(private photo provided by Gaby)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 24
This episode first aired 07/25/2023:
Season 1: Episode 24
Tyler's Story: Blood Bonds and Life Trials - A Journey of Connection and Resilience
In this deeply emotional episode of ThoughtVolution, we dive into the extraordinary life of Tyler, an Empowerment Coach and Branding Strategist who has embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and compassion. Born in Jerseyville, IL, and now residing in Fort Worth, Texas, Tyler's experiences and beliefs shape a unique perspective on life and the interconnectedness of humanity.
Tyler's story is a powerful affirmation of individuality and the significance of lived experiences. They emphasize that no two people live the same life, making their own journey inherently unique. As a gender queer individual, Tyler has faced their own challenges in self-acceptance, ultimately embracing their identity and finding strength in authenticity.
Tyler's life takes a remarkable turn when they share a life-changing act of generosity: donating life-saving stem cells as a registered 'Be The Match' donor. They recount how this selfless act led to an unexpected bond with the recipient, Mike, whose genetic compatibility surpassed that of his closest sister. This astonishing connection highlights the inherent commonalities we share as humans, transcending boundaries and emphasizing the depth of our interconnectedness.
But Tyler's life hasn't been without struggles. They bravely open up about navigating their parents' crystal meth addiction, an experience that deeply impacted their own life, relationships, and personal growth. The challenges faced during this time tested Tyler's resilience and fueled their determination to overcome adversity, ultimately shaping their path as an Empowerment Coach.
Tyler's journey is also tied to a poignant personal loss. When their grandfather passed away from leukemia during their 8th grade, Tyler knew they wanted to honor his legacy. Instead of getting a tattoo at 18, they made the powerful decision to register as a 'Be The Match' donor. The subsequent discovery of a near-perfect match in Mike brought a profound sense of connection, reaffirming Tyler's belief that we often have more in common with strangers than we realize.
Throughout their story, Tyler's experiences demonstrate the indomitable spirit of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of human connection. Their journey encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, cultivating empathy and understanding for the challenges faced by others. In a world that often emphasizes differences, Tyler's remarkable narrative serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity and the beauty that can emerge from acts of selflessness and love.
Join us on this deeply emotional episode as we bear witness to Tyler's journey—a testament to the triumph of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds that tie us all together.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about drug and alcohol addiction. If this subject is a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to learn more about Tyler and his life, please check out:
https://www.lifecoachtyler.com
To become a stem cell donor, please visit
Tyler.
(private photo provided by Tyler)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 23
This episode first aired 07/18/2023:
Season 1: Episode 23
Emily's Story: From Battling Cancer to Building Community: Finding Strength, Support, and Faith
In this profoundly uplifting episode of our podcast, we have the privilege of sharing Emily's remarkable journey. At 31 years old, residing in Georgia, Emily's path took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Throughout her challenging battle, Emily's unwavering faith in God, her resilience, and her encounters with an unexpected online community became transformative forces in her life.
Emily's dreams of becoming a geoscientist and airline pilot were put on hold when she received her diagnosis. However, amidst the uncertainty and fear, she discovered a sense of peace in her love for Dungeons and Dragons, finding joy and escape within its imaginative realm. Seeking encouragement and connection, Emily turned to social media, hoping to find solace in the lived experiences of others facing similar challenges.
What Emily encountered surpassed her expectations. Instead of merely finding a couple of new online friends, she stumbled upon an entire community—a collective of compassionate individuals who greeted her with love, kindness, and unwavering support. Through virtual connections, Emily discovered the power of shared experiences and the strength that emerges when individuals come together to uplift one another.
Emily's openness and outspoken nature have allowed her to navigate her disease and treatments with unwavering courage. She fearlessly shares her story, shedding light on the difficulties she faces, the moments of despair, and the triumphs along the way. Her unwavering faith in God has served as a guiding light, providing solace and hope during the darkest times.
This episode delves into the transformative power of community, exploring how falling into the arms of strangers can change one's perspective and offer genuine support. Emily's story of healing encompasses the realization that vulnerability opens doors to profound connections and empathy. She serves as an inspiration to listeners, encouraging them to seek solace in unexpected places, embrace the kindness of others, and allow themselves to be supported during life's most challenging moments.
Join us on this deeply heartfelt episode as we witness Emily's journey—a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of community, and the will to live.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about cancer and cancer treatment. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to follow Emily's journey a little closer, please check out her tiktok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@lightofshadows
Emily.
(private photo provided by Emily)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW : SEASON 1:
EPISODE 22
This episode first aired 07/11/2023:
Season 1: Episode 22
Vickie's Story: Reclaiming your own reflection and celebrating the beauty of those with facial differences.
Just like 1 in 700 babies, Vickie was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Sadly, being different from the masses often forces you to grow a thicker skin, to learn to endure bullying, ridicule, and the constant mocking of those believing that their conformity with society's standards gives them the permission to hurt others.
It took Vicky a very long time to accept herself for who she truly is and to see her facial differences, her uniqueness, and her own beauty as something she could actually love and share with the world. Silence may encourage bullies. It most certainly does not get them to stop. However, using your voice and sharing your truth can break silence, spark conversation, and teach bullies to do better.
Vickie has become a very outspoken advocate for people with facial differences. Her story matters because it breaks down our world's irrational beauty "standards". Nobody in this world is "normal". Nobody is "perfect". Accepting that fundamental truth allows you to view others, their appearance, their lives, and their stories with genuine kindness and respect.
Listen to Vickie's powerful story about people being so much more than what meets the eye.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about facial differences, bullying, and emotional violence. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to learn more about Vickie and her journey, please check out the following link:
https://www.dragonflyparadigm.com
Vickie.
(private photo provided by Vickie)
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PODCAST EPISODES
COMING SOON: SEASON 1: EPISODE 21
This episode first aired 07/04/2023:
Season 1: Episode 21
Charlie's Story: Igniting the darkness. When horror movies become refuge from abuse for a 5 year old boy.
Charlie experienced a rough childhood, one that was lined with physical abuse, neglect, and a general lack of love and affection. Instead of teddy bears, lego sets, and the warmth of family, Charlie ended up finding refuge in the most unlikely of places: in violent horror movies, a genre he began to explore at the age of five.
Charlie will tell us how he picked up the shards of his broken childhood to build something gruesome, yet beautiful that still affects a big chunk of his life to this day. But horror movies are not his only passion. Charlie wants to touch lives and change the world from the depths of chartered and unchartered waters. As a documentary filmmaker, he focuses on ocean life and hopes to leave his own footprint in a world that has always been a bit darker than it should have been.
On top of everything else, Charlie will also tell us about his adult ADHD diagnosis and how it has affected the way he lives.
Listen to Charlie's captivating story about igniting a light inside of you that is powerful enough to lead you away from your own inner darkness.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about childhood neglect and abuse, violence, physical harm, and mental illness. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to learn more about Charlie and his life, please check out the following links:
https://www.conjuringoddities.com
https://www.tiktok.com/@rollforramen
Charlie and his best friend.
(private photo provided by Charlie)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 20
This episode first aired 07/04/2023:
Season 1: Episode 20
Baylen's Story: Discovering your source of inner peace. How to free your mind from its' own solitary confinement.
Baylen creates beautiful art, he is eloquent, speaks gently, and seems like the kind of guy you would probably enjoy having a cup of coffee with while having a carefree conversation about life. Just an altogether wonderful person. That's who Baylen is TODAY.
What you may not see is what it took for him to get to the state of peace and self reflection he is now in. Baylen is in recovery from a heroin addiction that almost cost him his life - not once but three times.
While his three overdoses were painful and scary experiences, what actually lead to him turning his life around was the time he had to spend in solitary confinement during one of his prison sentences. Being alone and forced to face yourself was rough but it was also where he discovered the beauty and power of creating instead of destroying. Baylen started to draw and his art quickly became a lighthouse for him, navigating him away from the lift of drugs, crime, and self destruction he thought he had been condemned to live.
Baylen's story is as painful as it is powerful. It's a story about discovering inner peace in the most unlikely places.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about drug abuse, drug use, drug addiction, drug overdose, depression, mental illness, and armed robbery. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you would like to learn more about Baylen and his art, please check out the following links:
https://www.facebook.com/baylenparadaartist
You can also send an email to reach out to Baylen directly:
Baylen and his artwork.
(private photo provided by Baylen)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 19
This episode first aired 06/20/2023:
Season 1: Episode 19
Jenn's Story: Understanding the finiteness of life. When a terminal illness suddenly reminds you to live.
Jenn's life has been marked by hardship but also by the spirit of family and togetherness. When the doctor diagnosed her with LEMS (Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome), an ultra rare disease with death as the ultimate outcome, he did not even look her in the eyes. The earth shattering words that would forever alter the rest of her precious life were more or less just thrown in front of her to deal with. And the came with a time stamp.
Can you imagine watching every grain of sand fall through your own life's sand clock and knowing that this will be the final bit of time left for you with nobody to flip the clock over once more?
On top of her the disease progressing and running havoc within her body, Jenn's husband's own mental health struggles left the family homeless. Jenn was forced to pull the weight for everyone once more to keep her family together.
This is a powerful story about the limits of time, the resilience of family, and the unstoppable desire to live happily in spite of it all.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about trauma, terminal illness, homelessness, suicide, death, and depression. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
If you have the financial resources to help Jenn and her family in this difficult time, please check out Jenn's linktree below:
To get in touch with Jenn, please visit her TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@momnme2020
Jenn, her daughter, and her husband.
(private photo provided by Jenn)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 18
This episode first aired 06/13/2023:
Season 1: Episode 18
Jenny's Story: The search for belonging. How to finally arrive at home within.
Do you know where you belong and where you are at home? This sounds like such a simple question but for my guest, Jenny, the search for a place to consider home was a painful journey. Born in Indonesia to a family of Chinese immigrants, Jenny always felt ostracized and far from a place of true belonging. Indonesia's culture had very little space for 'people like her' and in her own family, harsh requirements for her to perform and achieve left no room for the love and acceptance Jenny so desperately desired.
Being alone and isolated throughout her childhood, Jenny found her personal sanctuary in a local library and in the stories of others. The impossible suddenly didn't seem so unattainable anymore and the inspiration within the books she read eventually became a roadmap to her own happiness.
Jenny will tell us how she built her own path to walk and dance on, in order to finally realize that home, belonging, and happiness had been within her all along.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about childhood trauma, corporal punishment, violence, loneliness, and depression. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To connect with Jenny and find out more about her work as a coach with a focus on happiness habits and morning routines, please check out the following links:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/jennyleeinfinite
IG: @sunnyjennylee
Here's the link to Jenny's calendar so you can meet her for a free one-on-one coaching session on how you can start your joyful morning routine tomorrow: https://calendly.com/beevibe88/discovery-call-live-coaching
Jenny's Morning Party Vibes Playlist on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/29swQtdB4F0R4AnUTisKLh?si=mdF-LYxdR8G9lu5s0AqtTQ&dd=1
Jenny.
(private photo provided by Jenny)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 17
This episode first aired 06/06/2023:
Season 1: Episode 17
Jetty's Story: Digging yourself out of the dirt thrown on top of you by others. A successful mission to finding true happiness
Overcoming difficult things is one of Jetty's special superpowers. Not only has she managed to survive bulimia, severe childhood trauma, depression, and Lyme disease, she also successfully completed two Ironman competitions and was able to completely redefine herself in order to finally give herself permission to be loved.
Growing up in the Netherlands, Jetty felt invisible throughout her entire childhood and adolesence in what she describes as a cold home. To find warmth and comfort, she turned to food and ended up developing an eating disorder. But Jetty had much more than bulimia to overcome. Her eating disorder was a mere result of a lifelong lack of self confidence and self love. Finding true happiness meant first and foremost that she had to travel to her inner core and to learn to love every bit of herself in the process.
Listen to Jetty's story about the deep desire to finally matter, be loved, and be seen.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about bulimia, binging and purging, eating disorders, mental illness, childhood trauma, depression, and body image issues. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Jetty, please check out the following links:
Jetty's Website: https://trujetty.com
Jetty's Instagram: https://instagram.com/trujetty
Jetty.
(private photo provided by Jetty)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 16
This episode first aired 05/30/2023:
Season 1: Episode 16
Susie's Story: Life as an Illness Collector: Advocating for self-advocacy and teaching others to understand the misunderstood.
Have you ever wondered what it must be like to be sick every sigle day? To wake up knowing that being well means something completely different to you because you are chronically ill? Susie will tell us about her 'illness collection' and how it affects her life . Does she love her body even though it appears to fail her almost every day? What is it like to live when the likelihood of death follows you constantly, like a whisper in the air? How do you navigate through medical appointments, the longing for a somewhat healthier you, and the negative positivity unintentionally expressed by so many trying to help?
Susie joins us to share the good, the bad, and the ugly of chronic illness in this blunt and deeply inspiring episode.
As a special treat, we will even get to listen to Susie's powerful song 'It's lonely here'. Buckle up, thoughtvolutionists. Listening to this episode may cause giggles, tears, joy, and sadness all at once.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about chronic illness, disease, mental health, and death. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Susie, her book, her music, and her life with chronic illness, please check out the following links:
https://www.lesshealthstress.com
https://linktr.ee/SusieSchwartz
Susie and Carlos.
(private photo provided by Susie)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 15
This episode first aired 05/23/2023:
Season 1: Episode 15
Scarlett's Story: Rediscovering the hunger for life after a 25 year battle with binge purge anorexia / bulimia.
How do you rediscover your hunger for life when you have been starving yourself for 25 years? Scarlett's struggle with anorexia and the binge-purge eating disorder called bulimia almost cost her her life. After early weight struggles, and a feeling of complete isolation, the eating disorder caused her to starve herself from 20 stone (280 lbs) to under 5 stone (under 70 lbs), walking only inches away from death.
Despite her body being broken, her teeth destroyed, and her self worth shattered, Scarlett did not give up.
After she finally managed to recover - not for her own sake but for the sake of her 7 kids and her loving husband - Scarlett was finally able to discover what true self love and happiness can look and feel like. She even used the newfound love for her own body to become a mature lingerie model for a short amount of time and learning that the judgements others may hold over her body could no longer touch or affect her.
Today, Scarlett dedicates her life to helping others as they battle their own eating disorders.
Listen to this captivating story about de-shaming people suffering from eating disorders.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about anorexia, bulimia, binging and purging, eating disorders, mental illness, self harm, and body image issues. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Scarlett and her work as an eating disorders recovery coach, please check out:
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090001192996
Scarlett.
(private photo provided by Scarlett)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 14
This episode first aired 05/16/2023:
Season 1: Episode 14
Sandra's Story: Climbing out of a bottomless pit to reclaim your life after sexual assault, molestation, and rape.
Sandra has had a lot of trauma to work through and she actually managed, as she says, to completely heal herself from the wounds caused by childhood molestation, sexual assault, bullying, and rape. Her life motto is to never say you cannot do it and she follows that principle to this day.
Listen to Sandra tell us how she managed to climb out of that bottomless pit of pain to fully reclaim her life and rediscover her own self worth and happiness.
The German native and 2 time gold medalist and European champion in interpretative dance has made Newfoundland her new home. She finds peace and serenity in walking the beautiful hiking trails and soaking up nature whenever she can.
Sandra's story is inspiring on so many levels. She takes us with her on a journey that initially makes us wander through a long valley of darkness to finally find that sweet light that not only illuminates the path ahead but also guides us out of the unlit.
Her story is one about healing yourself like only you can.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about childhood molestation, sexual assault, sexual abuse, bullying, rape, suicide, and mental illness. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Sandra and her work as an intuitive trauma healer, please check out:
Sandra.
(private photo provided by Sandra)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 13
This episode first aired 05/09/2023:
Season 1: Episode 13
Dallas's Story: Rediscovering yourself: A Recovery from crystal meth drug addiction, prostitution, and self resignation.
Welcome to this deeply emotional episode of ThoughtVolution. Today, we want to share the inspiring story of a man who faced his demons and came out victorious. Meet Dallas, a 46-year-old recovery coach who was born in West Virginia and now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Dallas has two children: Liliana and Jonah, who were his biggest source of inspiration to finally turn his life around after he truly hit rock bottom. For most of his life, Dallas struggled with self-acceptance and self-worth because of his sexuality and a general lack of belonging. The feeling of not being wanted and accepted led him down a dark path, and at the age of 39 and at the peak of his carreer, he became addicted to crystal meth.
To support his addiction, Dallas stole and even became a prostitute. His addiction led him to lose everything he held dear - his home, his job, and most importantly, his children. He found himself in jail several times for various drug-related offenses. Attempts to recover from his addiction were followed by brutal relapses.
But Dallas didn't give up. He knew that he needed to turn his life around to be there for his children and to finally allow himself to be there for HIMSELF. He found the strength within to get clean and put his life back together. It wasn't easy, but with the love and support of his children, he persevered.
Today, Dallas is a recovery coach, helping others who are struggling with addiction. The story of Dallas' own resurrection is a true inspiration to all of us. It shows us that no matter how far down we've fallen, we can always get back up and start anew.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about drug addiction, drug use, mental illness, prostitution, sucidal ideation, depression, HIV/aids, as well as self doubt, and homophobia. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Dallas and his advocacy work, please check out:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=674711947
Dallas.
(private photo provided by Dallas)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 12
This episode first aired 05/02/2023:
Season 1: Episode 12
Suzanne's Story: Losing your child and facing the realities of grief.
Suzanne experienced the unspeakable: Her son, Ben, died by suicide at the age of 22. How does a parent handle the loss of their child? How do we all deal with grief and the unbearable burden it tends to show up as?
Whether we admit it or not, we will all be touched by grief and loss at some point in our lives. What is it like to continue to live when a part of you is irrevocably taken from you?
Suzanne has not only learned to live with the loss of her son, she has also managed to utilize this awful experience to now help and give comfort to others. In her work as a grief educator, Suzanne has made it her mission to normalize grief so those facing loss no longer feel completely isolated and alone.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about suicide, depression, mental health, grief, loss, and death. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Suzanne and her work as a grief educator, please check out:
Suzanne and her children.
(private photo provided by Suzanne)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 11
This episode first aired 04/25/2023:
Season 1: Episode 11
Olga's Story: Chasing dreams, finding yourself - A Russian immigrant's American dream come true.
Olga was born in the Soviet Union. She later decided leave Russia and move to the United States in hopes of a better, safer life for herself and her son. Not only did she find freedom in the "new world", she even ended up joining the US navy to give back to the country and the people who allowed her to provide her family with a secure and prosperous future. In this episode, we will hear a story about an American dream come true and why chasing dreams and thinking outside the box is always worth the struggles and challenges that go hand in hand with facing the great but scary opportunities in life. Join us as Olga takes us on an inspiring journey that takes place in the Soviet Union, Russia, and the United States. This episode is about finding home in unlikely places, searching for yourself outside of your comfort zone, and discovering true freedom.
Olga and her husband.
(private photo provided by Olga)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 10
This episode first aired 04/18/2023:
Season 1: Episode 10
Eric's Story: Surrendering yourself, processing death, and finding true healing in music.
When Eric's sister Jess died from a drug overdose, it was as much of a heartbreaking farewell for him as it was a doorway to finding his most authentic self. Departing from self induced suffering, Eric now finds joy and comfort in the music he makes and the deep self discovery process his sister's passing initiated for him.
Listen to this powerful story about letting go to find the way back to yourself.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about drug addiction, drug overdose, and death. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Eric, his music, and everything he has going on, please check out the following link:
Eric's band is called Rrhea and their music can be found on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon.
The song featured in this episode is called "She is Home" by Rrhea.
Eric
(private photo provided by Eric)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 9
This episode first aired 04/11/2023:
Season 1: Episode 9
Erin's Story: Appreciating the preciousness of life while untangling the COVID aftermath.
Erin is a wonderful person and somebody who has learned to appreciate the preciousness of life despite chronic illness. After what was most likely a COVID infection during the very first wave when testing was still largely unavailable, Erin developed long COVID symptoms that affect her to this day. The COVID virus appears to have caused a rare lung disease called Autoimmune Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (aPAP).
While this health crisis with its' debilitating and life-threatening consequences has taken a huge toll on Erin's life, it has also helped her understand how much a gift it is to just take another breath and live another day. Her story is one of gratitude and appreciation for healthcare workers, lifesaving medications, and life itself.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about disease, chronic illness, COVID-19, long COVID, and associated trauma. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To learn more about Erin, her upcoming book, and her own podcast "MetaMentoring", please check out the following links:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/metamentoring
Instagram: www.instagram.com/metamentoring
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@metamentoring
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@metamentoring
Erin
(private photo provided by Erin)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 8
This episode first aired 04/04/2023:
Season 1: Episode 8
Haylei's Story: Mending the unmendable. An unfinished journey toward healing and self love told by a recovering people pleaser.
Haylei's journey toward healing and self love has only just begun. Childhood trauma and her husband's affair managed to break a great deal of her self esteem. Haylei calls herself a recovering people pleaser and she will share her powerful story about finding the glue in life that allows you to put yourself back together - one broken bit at at time.
To find out more about Haylei or get in touch with her for lifecoaching, please see below:
https://www.instagram.com/an_old_feathery_hat/
Podcast: https://featheroftruth.podbean.com
E-Mail: afeatheroftruth@gmail.com
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about HIV/AIDS, death, trauma, depression, suicide, body image issues, eating disorders, and mental illness. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
Artwork created by Haylei.
(private photo provided by Haylei)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 7
This episode first aired 03/28/2023:
Season 1: Episode 7
Deb's Story: Accepting and loving your transgender child. No matter what.
When Deb's son Sean came out to her in 2008 as trans, she did not need to decide to continue to love him. She just did. This was long before being transgender was discussed in the media or even in public. Since then, Deb has become an advocate for many people in the LGBTQ community. She sees herself as an ally to those often cast aside by our society and she will tell us about her family's very personal journey. This is a story about love, acceptance, and family.
Check out the website of Deb's LGBTQ advocacy organization UPLIFT OUTREACH CENTER
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about trauma, depression, suicide, and mental illness. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
Deb and her husband Al.
(private photo provided by Deb)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 6
This episode first aired 03/21/2023:
Season 1: Episode 6
Donnie's Story: Rising like a phoenix from the ashes and rebuilding a life after wrongful conviction and incarceration
Donnie could be seen as the epitome of success. He owns several successful businesses and appears to have his life together. As an entrepreneur and leader, he is seen as a role model by many of his peers. However, if you had the chance to rewind his life, it would probably make your head spin. Donnie used to be a drug dealer and he actually ended up serving 6 years and 2 months for a crime he did not actually commit. Can you imagine what it is like to pay the price for somebody else's mistakes every single day for 6 long years and 2 long months? Listen to the story of this incredible man about his rise like a phoenix from the ashes refusing to become yet another statistic.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about drugs and addiction, murder, violence, confinement and incarceration. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
To find our more about Donnie, check out:
https://linktr.ee/mr.universal
Donnie / Mr. Universal.
(private photo provided by Donnie)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 5
This episode first aired 03/14/2023:
Season 1: Episode 5
Don's story: Soaring like an eagle - out of a loveless marriage and into a world of self love and acceptance
Don gets to travel the world. As a flight attendant, he visits places others only dream of. However, there were times when his world was a lot smaller and when getting away seemed like the only possible way out - out of a loveless marriage, out of debt, out of despair.
Listen to Don talk about what life was like when times were really dark and gloomy and what it is like now that he gets to embark on some of life's most amazing journeys. Find out how he came out as gay and what he would do if you could turn back time.
How did Don grow his wings and learn to fly? What made him find true self love and how did he heal from what he was forced to live through?
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about abuse. If this subject is a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
Don.
(private photo provided by Don)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 4
This episode first aired 03/07/2023:
Season 1: Episode 4
Narriman's story: Second Chances - Living vivaciously with somebody else's kidney
Narriman is quite the world traveler. Although born in Cape Town, South Africa, she decided that the world really was her oyster as she first moved to Singapore and later to Germany. She greatly credits the German healthcare system for her survival. She suffered from hereditary polycystic kidney disease and desperately needed a new kidney. After all, she had already lost 3 of her brothers to this debilitating disease. Years of waiting while being on dialysis finally paid off and she received a kidney from a German woman. The name Narriman means "vivacious" in the Persian language, a word that beautifully encapsulates this woman's journey and fight for survival.
Listen to this remarkable story about second chances and the preciousness of life.
Photo of South Africa's national dish "Bobotie" cooked by Narriman
for friends in Dresden, Germany
(private photo provided by Narriman)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 3
This episode first aired 02/28/2023:
Season 1: Episode 3
Anna's story: Surviving against all odds
Anna has managed to live and survive against all odds. She seems practically indestructible. A stroke, depression, drug addiction and an impaired driver almost killing her - nothing seems to weigh this Southern gal with an honest mouth and a heart of gold down. The love for her kids is what has given her the strength to be the rock her family needs to lean on and after two divorces and the toll that has taken on her mental health, Anna is happy to just be alive and single.
Anna.
(private photo provided by Anna)
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about mental illness, depression, suicide, drugs and addiction. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
LISTEN HERE
PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 2
This episode first aired 02/21/2023:
Season 1: Episode 2
Dustin's story: Losing faith - youth pastor becomes atheist
Dustin's story is fascinating in many ways. How does somebody who is a youth pastor and whose entire identity is rooted in faith, church, and the Bible wake up one day as a non-believing atheist? What impact does that have on the rest of his family as they continue their spiritual journey as Christians without Dustin sharing that belief? What is his life like in the Bible belt of South Carolina now that he no longer belongs to the large majority group of Christians living here?
No matter where you personally stand or what you believe in, I think we can all agree that opening up about something as deeply personal as the loss of faith takes great courage. Remember to always be kind.
To find our more about Dustin and his journey from christianity to atheism, please check out his own website:
Dustin with his family
(private photo provided by Dustin)
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1: EPISODE 1
This episode first aired 02/14/2023:
Season 1: Episode 1
Jennifer's Story: How to survive, shine, and inspire while coping with trauma, cancer, abuse, and life itself
Jennifer is a true inspiration. Although she falsely describes herself as boring, she actually managed to overcome severe childhood trauma and abuse, a traumatic brain injury, her brother's accidental death, her husband's colon cancer, and so many other rocks thrown her way by life itself ... and she did so while always staying strong and positive - for her own mental health's sake and for the sake of her family. Listen to this inspiring story of a lady that became our not-so-secret role model as we were recording this interview.
To learn more about Jennifer's non-profit, please visit
Jennifer with Kurt and Parker
(private photo provided by Jennifer)
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about abuse, trauma, accidental death, infertility, cancer, and mental illness. If any of these subjects are a trigger to you, please prioritize your mental health and skip this episode.
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PODCAST EPISODES
LISTEN NOW: SEASON 1 TRAILER
Get a sneak peak in what this season has to offer.
ThoughtVolution - the podcast where the thoughts of others meet evolving mind. Do you know what it is like to not only question your faith but to completely lose it and to turn from devout Christian to atheist? Can you imagine what it must be like to struggle with your own health, yet your husband's cancer and your child's bipolar disorder force you to not only keep yourself alive but your entire family? How would you feel if you needed someone else's life to end in order for their organ donation to save your life? These and other stories are what makes ThoughtVolution so special and unique. The stories of regular people inspire and encourage, sometimes outrage or upset. Be a part of this journey and allow yourself to truly evolve your mind.
LISTEN HERE