From Corporate Layoff to Coaching Success: Audrey Dendy-Hightower’s Inspiring Leap EP | 151
Release Date: 05/27/2025
Life’s Checkmark: Conversations of Relationships, Mental and Physical Health, Spirituality, and Business Journeys
Combat PTSD and Transforming Trauma: Brian Arbor’s Journey EP | 177 I'm Jon Emery, and in this episode of Life's Checkmark, I connect with Brian Arbor, a veteran, podcaster, and passionate advocate for mental health. Brian opens up about his powerful journey from battling post-combat PTSD and burnout to seeking real healing beyond traditional personal development. He shares how his relentless pursuit of transformation eventually led him to acknowledge the costs of pushing through pain and the life-changing support he discovered through therapy, medication, and community. Together, we...
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Family Trauma, Healing, and Hope Through Cassidy Kloth's Journey EP | 176 In this episode, I sit down with Cassidy Kloth for an honest look at navigating family pain, mental health battles, and the road to healing. Cassidy talks about working with her mom after years of a rocky relationship, shouldering adult responsibilities as a teen, and how she learned to focus on her own well-being while caring for those around her. We explore what it takes to rebuild trust, the importance of self-care, and the power of supportive relationships. If you’ve ever felt weighed down by family struggles...
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Courage, Change, and Gratitude: Tisch McDaniel’s Near-Death Car Crash EP | 175 In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I sit down with Tisch McDaniel, whose life was forever changed after a near-fatal car accident. Tisch opens up about her transformation from someone living fast and chasing recognition to becoming a true servant leader and source of encouragement for others. Her story reminds us all what it means to choose gratitude every day and how even the toughest setbacks can shape us in remarkable ways. We talk about courage, finding joy in the little victories, and connecting with...
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Hope After Suicide: A True Survival Story with Lindsay Stadel EP | 174 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I welcome Lindsay Stadel, whose powerful journey through divorce, abuse, and surviving a suicide attempt brought her to a life filled with purpose, family, and mission. Lindsay opens up about the struggles that led her to the edge, the pain she faces every day, and the changes she's made to rebuild her life. Her honest story will challenge you to reflect, reach out for help, and discover the value in your own story. If you’ve ever felt alone, this episode shows you that you are enough....
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Breaking Free: Kim Croley on Healing, Mental Wellness, and Finding Faith After Trauma EP | 173 In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I sit down with Kim Croley, a mental wellness coach, speaker, and author, who opens up about her path from personal struggles and trauma to deep healing, self-acceptance, and faith. Kim shares how therapy, education, and a renewed relationship with God transformed her life and work. We talk about breaking harmful cycles, becoming comfortable in your own skin, and the power of truly loving yourself. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or tools for your own...
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Tatyana Deniz’s Struggle With Identity and the Beautiful Way She Fought for Herself EP | 172 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Tatyana Deniz, an artist, teacher, and devoted mother, whose journey is all about courage, creativity, and transformation. From growing up in the Soviet Union with no formal art experience to embracing her creative spirit later in life, Tatyana opens up about leaving a corporate career and finding purpose through art. We talk about overcoming limiting beliefs, the power of teaching, and how anyone can learn to express themselves...
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Finding Your Voice: Raquel Soto’s Powerful Journey of Self-Acceptance, Healing & Impact EP | 171 In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I sit down with Raquel Soto, a true burst of energy and inspiration. Raquel opens up about her path from childhood struggles, being told she was “too much,” and facing tough setbacks, to becoming a “GPS for success” for entrepreneurs. We talk through how she found strength after deep lows, how music and neuroscience help shape her work, the healing power of storytelling, and embracing your true self even when it’s challenging. Raquel’s...
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Trauma Counselor Dave Roberts Shares How to Navigate Grief and Healing EP | 170 In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I talk with Dave Roberts, a dedicated educator, therapist, and podcaster whose life changed forever after the loss of his daughter. Dave shares how his own journey of grief and healing led him to help others with trauma, addiction, and bereavement, both in and out of the classroom. We discuss practical strategies to support people through loss, the power of community, the impact of simply listening, and the importance of being yourself during tough times. Dave’s...
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Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Paige Brown on Purpose, Mindset, and Female Success in Business EP | 169 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I finally connect on a deeper level with Paige Brown, a powerhouse coach and heart-driven entrepreneur. Paige shares her personal journey from counseling to launching her own business, her battles with burnout, and how she found a calling to help female entrepreneurs realign from the inside out. We get into the real stuff: imposter syndrome, hustle culture, money mindset, and those huge moments that force you to shift your entire outlook on life and...
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Healing After Abuse: Amanda Hietter on Starting Over, Faith, and Owning Your Journey EP | 168 In this episode of Life's Checkmark, I sit down with Amanda Hietter, a travel advisor and event host, who is all about creating transformative experiences. Amanda opens up about surviving an abusive relationship, hitting rock bottom, and the real work of healing even years later. We discuss the power of faith, seeking help, and the importance of persevering even when life feels overwhelming. Amanda’s story is not only about overcoming, but about finding purpose, supporting others, and living life...
info_outlineFrom Corporate Layoff to Coaching Success: Audrey Dendy-Hightower’s Inspiring Leap EP | 151
In this episode of Life’s Checkmark, I sit down with Audrey Dendy-Hightower, a former Wall Street program manager turned mental health and life coach. After a 35-year corporate career and a life-changing layoff, Audrey shares how she found the courage to pursue her passion for coaching and speaking. We talk about facing fears, rebuilding after divorce, embracing self-care beyond spa days, and stepping into a purpose-driven life. Audrey opens up about her first speaking experiences, her bold leap into hosting her own table at an event, and what it feels like to finally put herself first. If you’ve ever wondered “what’s next?” or doubted your next step, this episode serves up honest advice, encouragement, and the reminder that it’s never too late to go after what you want. Join us for this real conversation about new beginnings and staying true to yourself.
Key Takeaways:
- How to turn a layoff into an opportunity
- The true meaning of self-care beyond spa days
- Tips for shifting your mindset and energy
- Lessons from starting over after divorce
- Why “What’s the worst that can happen?” is powerful
Connect with Audrey Dendy-Hightower:
Website: https://www.audreydendy-hightower.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audreydendyhightower/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YouBreakwithAudrey
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Life’s Checkmark Podcast
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