Episode 13: Kerri and Chris Run a Marathon

Release Date: 05/01/2024

Inspiring Journeys: Sparks of Hope - Restoring Memories: A Tale of Kindness After the Storm

Inspiring Journeys

Welcome to Sparks of Hope on the Inspiring Journeys podcast! In this episode, we highlight the incredible story of Taylor Schenker, a North Carolina woman who turned a devastating event into an opportunity to spread kindness. After Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina in late September 2024, Taylor discovered nearly 200 family photographs scattered far from home. Recognizing the deep personal value of these lost memories, she created an Instagram page, , to reunite the photos with their rightful owners. Through her determination and the power of social media, Taylor’s efforts restored not...

Inspiring Journeys: Sparks of Hope - Hope Under the Tree: A Christmas Kindness in Melbourne

Inspiring Journeys

🎙️ Episode Summary Welcome to the debut episode of Sparks of Hope, a new feature of the Inspiring Journeys podcast dedicated to shining a light on the goodness and compassion in our world. These bite-sized episodes share uplifting stories that remind us of the powerful connections we share as humans. In this episode, we’re exploring a heartwarming story of generosity that took place in Melbourne, Australia. Amid the holiday season, a mystery woman stepped forward to pay off over $8,000 in layaway balances for families at a local toy shop, ensuring they could celebrate Christmas without...

GenX Journeys Episode 8: Scrooged

Inspiring Journeys

🎄✨ GenX Journeys is back on Inspiring Journeys with another holiday classic! This time, we're diving into the iconic '80s film Scrooged starring Bill Murray. Originally released as an episode of Return to the '80s on December 18, 2023, this nostalgic deep dive is packed with laughs, memories, and sidebars that will make you feel like you're at your own '80s-style office Christmas party. In this episode, we not only discuss the film’s humor and heart but also celebrate the legendary cameos and unforgettable quotes that make Scrooged a true holiday classic. You might even find yourself...

GenX Journeys Episode 7: Christmas Vacation

Inspiring Journeys

🎄 Welcome back to GenX Journeys on Inspiring Journeys! That’s right—this is the second episode of the week! Are you surprised? Well, as Clark Griswold would say: “If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised than I am right now!” This time, we’re diving into the holiday classic Christmas Vacation! Once again, I’m joined by the amazing Del Roehling, Claire Young, and Caroline Connely as we unpack everything that makes this movie an essential part of the season. From iconic scenes and unforgettable quotes to the casting of the Griswold kids...

GenX Journeys Episode 6: Die Hard

Inspiring Journeys

🎥 "Welcome to the party, pals!" In this special holiday episode, originally recorded for Return to the '80s, we’re celebrating the ultimate Christmas action movie: Die Hard! Join me, Paul Stroessner, along with the amazing Del Roehling, Claire Young, and Caroline Connely as we dive into the iconic 1988 classic that redefined holiday entertainment. In this episode, we explore: 🔹 The great debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? (Spoiler: we all say YES!) 🔹 Bruce Willis as John McClane—an everyman action hero for the ages 🔹 Alan Rickman’s unforgettable debut as Hans Gruber 🔹...

Episode 32: Empowering Wellness from Coast to Coast with Russ Rogers and Dan Scoca

Inspiring Journeys

In this inspiring episode, we reconnect with Russ Rogers, who shared his journey with us back in Episode 12, and welcome Dan Scoca, as Russ and Dan are launching a brand new podcast next month. Dan shares his background as a physician’s assistant and explains his passion for both physical and mental wellness. Russ and Dan dive into how they met and bonded over their shared commitment to empowering others. Together, they’re launching the Dual Coast Podcast in January 2025, with a mission to inspire listeners to move, improve their health, and achieve a balanced mind-body connection. Topics...

GenX Journeys Episode 5: Mark Weiss and The Decade That Rocked

Inspiring Journeys

On this special episode of GenX Journeys, we revisit a fascinating conversation originally recorded for Return to the '80s on January 28, 2021. Paul and Del had the privilege of interviewing legendary rock photographer Mark "Weissguy" Weiss. Mark’s story is not just a nostalgic trip through the 80s rock scene; it’s an inspiring journey of passion, persistence, and seizing opportunities. Mark is the creative genius behind some of the most iconic album covers of the 80s, including Twisted Sister’s Stay Hungry and Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet. His photographs have graced the pages of rock...

Episode 31: Honoring the Lives of 20 Veterans – A Dedication to Service and Sacrifice

Inspiring Journeys

In this heartfelt solo episode of Inspiring Journeys, we honor 20 incredible veterans whose lives were lost to the battle with PTSD. Each of these heroes was honored during my Marine Corps Marathon run, dedicating a mile to their memory and legacy. The episode begins with gratitude and reflections on the transformative experiences of this year, including the rebranding of this podcast and the marathon journey itself. I also share the mission of 22 Too Many, an organization founded by Keri Jacobs to bring attention to the silent epidemic of veteran suicide. Keri joined us on Episode 27 to share...

GenX Journeys - Episode 4: Planes, Trains and Automobiles

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I’m thrilled to share a very special episode from the GenX Journeys branch of our feed. As part of bringing over some of the best moments from my former Return to the '80s podcast, I couldn’t think of a better one to kick off the holiday season than this Thanksgiving classic! Originally released on November 23, 2021, this episode is all about the hilarious and heartwarming Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, directed by John Hughes and starring two legends—Steve Martin and John Candy. Joining me for this fun-filled discussion are my cohost, Del Roehling, and our fantastic regular guests,...

Episode 30: Transformative Healing: Jackie Durnin’s Path from Trauma to Innovation in Mental Health

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In this inspiring episode of Inspiring Journeys, Paul Stroessner sits down with Jackie Durnin, founder of Hinterland Health Retreat, to explore her journey from trauma to healing and her groundbreaking work in mental health. Jackie shares the experiences that led her to become a counselor and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner, opening up about how her own challenges and traumas shaped her path toward helping others. Jackie introduces us to the unique modalities offered at Hinterland Health Retreat, where she combines advanced neuro-technology with holistic therapies for a truly...

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Inspiring Journeys' own Kerri Nelson, and Chris Marino, whose incredible story can be heard on Episode 8 of Inspiring Journeys, completed the 2024 Boston Marathon!

We get to live vicariously through them on Marathon Monday as give their experiences from the Marathon Expo to the trip to the starting line, to the race itself. And a little potty talk in between.

This is a great episode for runners to either relive the historic marathon, or inspire them to want to run it. It is also great for non runners to go behind the scenes of a run.

This annual event is also the pinnacle of inspiration, which lives up to this podcast's name! By the time Kerri and Chris take the left on to Boylston, you'll be ready to lace up some running shoes yourself!

Also, this episode's 22 Too Many veteran is

Dirk Dastrup

March 22, 1999 – July 29, 2021

Dirk was an active-duty airman, stationed at Hurlburt Field in the Florida Panhandle.

Dirk Anthony Dastrup, was born and raised in Benson, AZ. Dirk had a heart of gold. His passion was always to rescue others. He always had an ear for his friends’ troubles. He loved the ocean. He had no problem swimming at 11 o’clock at night. He was learning to snorkel and scuba dive while stationed in Florida. His heart still belonged in the desert.

He loved Bath Bombs. He had a dream to serve Veteran Families with a package of Bath Bombs to honor their service. Mom is following by taking up his cause: Dirks Dream Bath Bombs Co.

Dirk suffered with Depression caused by Military Regulations. He was receiving counseling and medication, but to no avail. It wasn’t any source of help.

Dirk was 22 years old. He left behind his mom, his step father, his 6 siblings and father. His radiant smile, dreams and love are so truly missed.

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Please feel free to donate to Chris' charity #BFightsALD to help fight and bring attention to ALD.

Kerri can be found on

Instagram: @running_with_the_rockstar

Facebook: Every Run Has a Story

You can find Adriana at:

Instagram @SoulFriendYoga

email: adriana@soulfriendyoga

Soulfriendyoga.com – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off

You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places:

Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner