Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open

Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. My name is Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA. I’m an author, podcast co-host, psychic intuitive mental health therapist, and grief and loss coach. I’ve learned through my experience and professional work with clients that when a heartbreaking event cracks us wide open the way it did for me when my younger brother Rocky died in 2014, it offers us the opportunity to experience our inner light in a more profound and life-changing way. Throughout the past 2.5 years, I've focused solely on grief and loss, and I hope you’ll find those episodes helpful if you’re on your own grief and loss journey. In January 2024, I partnered with my colleague and spiritual teacher, Valerie Moon, to create a new live show, Illumi-Nation, to field questions and respond to life struggles in real time. Valerie and I will help to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. We hope you Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. Our show airs live every Wednesday at noon and will be recorded on posted on our social media channels. You can find us here: Susan E Casey: YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Rockyourshine INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/susan.casey FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/susan.e.casey.3 LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanecasey/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey WEBSITE: https://rockyourshine.com/ EMAIL: [email protected] Valerie Moon: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemoonhealing/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoonhealing FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoon23

Episode 11: Firewalking with Travis Preston 04/29/2024

Episode 11: Firewalking with Travis Preston Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Susan and Valerie sit down with Travis Preston to discuss the power of firewalking. Firewalking is a practice in which individuals walk barefoot across a bed of hot coals or stones without sustaining burns or injuries. It's often associated with various cultural and spiritual traditions, including religious rituals and personal growth seminars. The practice is usually conducted under the guidance of experienced facilitators who prepare participants both mentally and physically. As for the benefits attributed to firewalking, they are primarily psychological and symbolic in nature: Overcoming fear: Firewalking is often seen as a powerful metaphor for facing and conquering one's fears. By walking across the hot coals, participants confront their fear of fire and learn to trust themselves and their abilities to overcome obstacles. Building confidence: Successfully completing a firewalk can boost self-confidence and self-esteem. It demonstrates to participants that they are capable of accomplishing seemingly impossible tasks with the right mindset and preparation. Mindfulness and focus: Walking across hot coals requires intense concentration and mindfulness. Participants must focus their attention entirely on the present moment, which can help cultivate mindfulness and reduce stress. Personal empowerment: Firewalking is sometimes used as a tool for personal empowerment and transformation. Cultural and spiritual significance: In some cultures, firewalking is a sacred ritual with spiritual significance. Guest Bio and Contact information: Travis has been traveling the world for more than 10 years seeking guidance and empowerment for himself to share with you. Seeking Guidance from Native American Elders as well as Spiritual Teachers and Masters of the Craft. With his experience, training, and expertise in coaching, firewalking, shamanic navigation, channeling, and speaking, he has molded an approach that simplifies and humanizes the unseen spirit world and healing. His client’s success is the most important thing to him. Travis understands the struggles and challenges that life can present because he's been there himself. He's walked through the fire metaphorically before bringing firewalking to his clients and knows what it takes to overcome obstacles and transform one’s life. His journey with mental illness, addiction, and spiritual confusion has blessed him with the gift of compassion, understanding, and belief in those who show up and are ready, no matter where they are, or what they have been through. Contact Travis Preston: WWW.WOLFPACKHEALING.COM Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/31032523

Episode 10: Medium Corrine Pelland Shares Messages From the Other Side as We Discuss Mediumship 04/15/2024

Episode 10: Medium Corrine Pelland Shares Messages From the Other Side as We Discuss Mediumship Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, psychic medium, Corrine Pelland, reads for two guests, Bonnie Piekarski who lost her nana, and Rebecca Hewitt, who lost her 25-year-old son Skyler in February 2021 from drugs laced with Fentanyl. We begin this episode by discussing mediumship, what it is, and how to help people prepare for a reading. Both Bonnie’s nana and Rebecca’s son came through in these readings. Don’t miss this compelling episode if you’ve been curious about how mediums connect to the other side. Guest Medium Bio: Corrine is an Empath and a Psychic Medium. Even as a small child, Corrine has had a special insight into other people’s emotions. Beginning in her early teenage years, her intuition would alert her when something important was about to occur, either for herself or a loved one. At age 14, Corrine began using the wisdom of Tarot Cards to enhance her psychic connection. As years went on, Corrine became more aware of her ability as her readings became more accurate and her predictions began to materialize. At the age of 30, she began having premonition dreams. After seeking the guidance of her Shaman, she came to accept that she is an Empath & an Intuitive. Corrine is a natural healer, using her Empathy, Intuition, and Reiki to heal others emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Corrine is also able to mediate communication between people who are no longer living to those who still are. She offers private readings, healings, and in-home parties. She is a wedding officiant offering custom-written ceremonies for all couples. Her true passion is teaching others to honor their abilities and helping others heal themselves. Contact information: Corrine Pelland Email:[email protected] Instagram: Beyond_thegate_corrinepelland Facebook: Www.facebook.com/GoBeyondtheGate Website: www.gobeyondthegate.com Bonnie Piekarski Email: [email protected] Instagram: @Bonnieeee75 Twitter: Itsmebonniep Linkedin: Bonnie Piekarski Facebook: Mindyabiz Bonnie Website: The Milagros Project.org Rebecca Hewitt: Email: [email protected] Instagram: @ Website: https://heal.me/mourningsky Please watch three other interviews with Rebecca: Interview #1: Interview #2: Interview #3: Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role to support many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life we want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie www.instagram.com/valeriemoonhealing www.facebook.com/valeriemoonhealing https://www.youtube.com/@valeriemoonhealing www.valeriemoonhealing.com Connect with Susan https://www.rockyourshine.com https://www.instagram.com/susan.casey/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100045701809031 https://www.facebook.com/susan.e.casey.3/ https://www.youtube.com/@Rockyourshine https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30819938

Episode 9: A Man Finds Redemption After Serving 30 Years in Prison for the Murder of His Wife 04/08/2024

Episode 9: A Man Finds Redemption After Serving 30 Years in Prison for the Murder of His Wife Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Susan and Valerie delve into the remarkable story of Daniel Adams, who spent three decades behind bars for the tragic death of his partner, Tracy. Now, four years into his freedom, Daniel bravely opens up about his path to self-redemption and forgiveness. Join us for an unforgettable conversation as Daniel shares his journey with raw honesty, while co-host Valerie Moon offers her own perspective as a survivor of abuse, bringing unexpected twists to the dialogue. *TRIGGER WARNING* This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a loved one so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Guest Bio and Contact information: I am a returned citizen after 3 decades of incarceration. I am a man in long term recovery. I have starred in a documentary called, "Behind the Rage, Domestic Violence in America". I am Trainer of Trainers in Domestic Violence, Peer recovery Specialist, Peer Activated Resilience, and Certified older adult Peer Specialist. Now, I’m in the Recovery Leadership Academy of Virginia Commonwealth of Virginia University. I am a man who loves everyone. Read Daniel’s story here: Listen to Daniel’s first interview with Susan Casey on Rock Your Shine Podcast here: Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rock-your-shine-after-youve-been-cracked-wide-open/id1573809035 Email: Connect with Illumi-Nation COMING SOON! If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30733078

Episode 8: Human Design Reader Brenna Keeley Shares How to Fully Harness Your Energy Through Knowledge 04/01/2024

Episode 8: Human Design Reader Brenna Keeley Shares How to Fully Harness Your Energy Through Knowledge Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, join Susan and Valerie as they dive into the world of Human Design with expert Brenna Keeley. Discover the transformative power of this unique personality test and how it can unlock your natural strengths, leading to a more rewarding life. While many are familiar with personality assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Big Five (OCEAN), Enneagram, DiSC, and the VIA Survey of Character Strengths, Human Design offers a distinctive approach. But what sets the Human Design Personality Test apart? Created by Alan Robert Krakower, who later published "The Human Design System" under the alias Ra Uru Hu in 1992, this system was born from a revelatory experience in 1987. Merging the wisdom of Astrology, IChing, Kabbalah, and Hindu Chakra teachings with the disciplines of quantum physics, genetics, and psychology, Human Design presents a detailed map of an individual's energetic makeup. Guest Bio and Contact information: Brenna Keeley is a Human Design Reader, Mentor, and Creative Consultant for Spiritual Entrepreneurs. She began her Human Design experiment 8 years ago, while working in the arts and music industry across New York's 5 boroughs. Brenna brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a Human Design reader, mentor, and consultant. Through her Human Design readings, workshops and her engaging Authentic Bitches Podcast, she showcases her active embodiment of Human Design principles, while teaching others how to do the same. As a dedicated consultant and reader, Brenna empowers her clients and spiritual entrepreneurs to harness their unique energy by utilizing their Human Design Bodygraph, enabling them to find sustainable and purposeful paths. She is a passionate advocate for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and provides valuable insights on achieving harmony in personal and professional spaces. Based in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Brenna actively commutes to both states, including New York City, for a range of events, most notably her signature Human Design Happy Hours. Contact information for Brenna Keeley: Email: [email protected] Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan Email: Connect with Illumi-Nation Coming Soon! If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30599848

Episode 7: A Police Chaplain Shares How She Delivers Traumatic News and Holds Space for the Grief 03/25/2024

Episode 7: A Police Chaplain Shares How She Delivers Traumatic News and Holds Space for the Grief Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Susan and Valerie engage in a deeply moving conversation with Yarmouth Police Chaplain Leslie Hyde, shedding light on her profound role as a first responder. Leslie opens up about the emotional weight of her responsibilities, particularly in delivering traumatic news to families facing unimaginable loss. With unwavering compassion, Leslie recounts the harrowing experience of supporting families confronted with the devastating reality of losing an adult child to a drug overdose. She describes the delicate balance of delivering such heartbreaking news while providing solace and empathy in the face of overwhelming grief. Throughout the discussion, Leslie articulates the importance of holding space for individuals navigating the tumultuous spectrum of emotions, from searing rage to profound despair. She underscores the importance of trust and surrender in her role, acknowledging the inherent vulnerability and authenticity required to accompany others through their darkest moments. Tune in to this episode as Leslie Hyde's compassionate insights offer a profound reminder of the transformative power of human connection and the invaluable support provided by those who courageously serve as beacons of hope in times of profound darkness. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with someone you trust so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline 988 for help. Guest Bio: Leslie Hyde writes:I have been on a quest for my truth most of my life. I majored in Religion at Trinity College., Since then I have worked in international publishing; as a Guardian As Litem; a school administrator; the President of a social service agency; an elected politician; and a youth mentor at Longcreek Youth and Development Center; and finally ended up exactly where I was meant to be: at the Chaplaincy Institute of Maine (ChIME) I was ordained in 2015 and served on their board for several years. I have been working as the chaplain for the Yarmouth Police Department since 2015. I worked with the CDC and their Corona Virus Task Force on Emotional Wellness. In Yarmouth, this evolved into the Yarmouth Public Health Counsel where I also address Emotional Wellbeing. I also worked with the CDC in Maine on creating their Spiritual Care Corps in response to the pandemic. I am the Director of Riverside Cemetery in Yarmouth and have a counseling practice, Listening Hearts. Contact information for Leslie Hyde: Email: [email protected] Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role to support many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan Email: Connect with Illumi-Nation - Coming Soon! If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30512198

Episode 6: Part 2: Shadow Work With Co-host Valerie Moon and Guest Julie Brown 03/18/2024

Episode 6: Part 2: Shadow Work With Co-host Valerie Moon and Guest Julie Brown Welcome to Illumi-Nation. Illumination serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Valerie Moon provides shadow healing on Julie to clear the blocks that are preventing her from taking the next steps along her path as a healer. Guest Bio and Contact information: Julie Brown: Julie Brown is a healer and the author and creator of the literary composition; The Brownstone Series. Julie was raised in Liverpool, New York with a talented group of siblings. The youngest of five it was easy to stand in awe as everyone sang, studied lines to a play, or strummed the guitar. "My brother died when I was 17 years old. I thought the world I lived in was cruel. I phased out and faded in. Years later I was rifling through old photos of his life. All of his experiences showed me what I was lacking. Passion. Not long after beginning my true journey through grief, I began writing." Julie is writing novels that explore the spiritual landscape of our world and expand our awareness on the responsibilities of love and the nature of loss. Ancient teachings surface in this modern-day romance giving us profound insights that link the human and the divine. Currently, Julie is working on the 4th book in the series. Contact information for Julie Brown: Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan Email: Connect with Illumi-Nation - COMING SOON! If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30408508

Episode 5: Part 1: Psychic Medium and Tarot Reader Jenn Sullivan Reads for Guest Julie Brown and Discusses Divination Tools 03/12/2024

Episode 5: Part 1: Psychic Medium and Tarot Reader Jenn Sullivan Reads for Guest Julie Brown and Discusses Divination Tools Episode 5 Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In the first half of this episode, Jennifer Sullivan, Psychic Medium, tarot reader, and astrologer, sits down with guest, Julie Brown, healer and author, to do a real-time tarot reading about the energies coming in for Julie who feels blocked about the next steps she needs to take on her career path as a healer. Jennifer pulled some cards to help Julie understand that she is preparing to step into her gifts. The second half of this episode, Valerie leads us in a discussion about different divination tools that healers use with their clients from tarot decks to dowsing pendulums. Next week, Valerie will provide shadow healing on Julie to clear the blocks that are preventing her from taking the next steps along her path as a healer. Guest Bio and Contact information: Jennifer Sullivan: Psychic Medium, Astrologer & Firewalk Facilitator Jennifer is a psychic medium that specializes in Tarot, Astrology, and Animal Communication. She received her first Tarot deck as a gift at the age of 11, which kick-started her career by performing readings for friends and classmates. She began reading professionally in high school. Jennifer dove into the world of Astrology several years ago, falling in love with the stars, and loving the insight they provide. Jennifer considers herself to be an intuitive reader who is earthly, practical, and of the highest integrity. Her readings are non-judgmental, reality-based, spiritually focused, and most importantly, fun! She is fascinated by the intricacy of an individual’s cause-and-effect and is devoted to helping people understand their current path, make positive choices, and lead happier lives. In a reading with Jennifer, she incorporates Tarot or Astrology, as well as channeled messages from your Spiritual Team. In addition, there is the possibility that a loved one who has passed on will offer messages as well. This is not guaranteed, but when they really want a message delivered, it comes through. Readings are designed to be empowering and provide healing and guidance. Contact information for Jennifer Sullivan: Tarot deck used in this reading: Tarot of Oneness by Robyn Voisey Julie Brown: Julie Brown is a healer and the author and creator of the literary composition; The Brownstone Series. Julie was raised in Liverpool, New York with a talented group of siblings. The youngest of five it was easy to stand in awe as everyone sang, studied lines to a play, or strummed the guitar. "My brother died when I was 17 years old. I thought the world I lived in was cruel. I phased out and faded in. Years later I was rifling through old photos of his life. All of his experiences showed me what I was lacking. Passion. Not long after beginning my true journey through grief, I began writing." Julie is writing novels that explore the spiritual landscape of our world and expand our awareness on the responsibilities of love and the nature of loss. Ancient teachings surface in this modern-day romance giving us profound insights that link the human and the divine. Currently, Julie is working on the 4th book in the series. Contact information for Julie Brown: Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role to support many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie Email: Connect with Susan Email: Connect with Illumi-Nation Coming Soon! If you would like to be a guest on Illumi-Nation please email us at /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30334348

Episode 4: A Haunting Revealed: Understanding How to Address a Spirit 03/05/2024

Episode 4: A Haunting Revealed: Understanding How to Address a Spirit Welcome to Illumi-Nation: Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Our mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, we aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join us in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Valerie and Susan delve into the intriguing case of Tobe London, a man whose life took a dramatic turn after being diagnosed with a terminal illness. Tobe, a multifaceted individual with backgrounds in heavy equipment operation, the military, music, and robotics training, found himself facing not only his mortality but also unexplained phenomena in his own home. The catalyst for seeking help came when Tobe's wife captured footage of an apparition outside his truck window while recording him for posterity. Believing it to be a potential intruder, Tobe called the authorities, only to find no evidence of anyone on their property. As more peculiar incidents unfolded, Tobe realized he needed assistance in understanding and potentially resolving these encounters. Enter Valerie, a gifted energy healer attuned to the vibrations surrounding her, capable of discerning and clearing lower vibrational energies, including those manifesting as earth-bound spirits or other intrusive entities. Tobe's decision to seek Valerie's expertise stemmed from a desire to comprehend why the apparition seemed drawn to him specifically and to facilitate its transition to another realm. Throughout the interview, listeners are invited to explore the intricacies of spirit activity and the reasons why entities may linger in the earthly plane. Valerie and Susan's discussion offers a compelling glimpse into the unseen forces that occasionally intersect with our lives, prompting reflection on the mysteries of existence beyond the tangible realm. Tobe London does not have any contact information, but we encourage you to listen his music here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_n5w44521QmPJuvwOWntG0sMlV-NookhVo Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie www.instagram.com/valeriemoonhealing www.facebook.com/valeriemoonhealing https://www.youtube.com/@valeriemoonhealing www.valeriemoonhealing.com Connect with Susan https://www.instagram.com/susan.casey/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100045701809031 https://www.facebook.com/susan.e.casey.3/ https://www.youtube.com/@Rockyourshine https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30227963

Episode 3: Unlocking the Power of Belief: The Key to Manifesting Abundance 02/27/2024

Episode 3: Unlocking the Power of Belief: The Key to Manifesting Abundance Welcome to Illumi-Nation, a new podcast under the umbrella of Susan Casey's company Rock Your Shine: After you've been cracked wide open and under the umbrella of Valerie Moon's company Valerie Moon Healing. Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Susan and Valerie's mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, they aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join Susan and Valerie in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Valerie and Susan talk about how to shift your energetic vibration to match the vibration of what it is you desire for your life. Manifesting is more than envisioning what you want. You must believe in yourself, and your ability to bring in what you want for yourself and for the greater good. Illumi-Nation's recorded shows air on Tuesdays followed by a live show every Wednesday at noon on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Susan and Valerie interact with their audience and answer questions about the recorded episodes. Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie and Susan on their social media sites. Susan E Casey: YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Rockyourshine INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/susan.casey FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/susan.e.casey.3 LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanecasey/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey WEBSITE: https://rockyourshine.com/ EMAIL: [email protected] Valerie Moon: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemoonhealing/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoonhealing FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoon23 /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/30116878

Episode 2: Energy, Vibration and Manifestation: What does it all mean? 02/14/2024

Episode 2: Energy, Vibration and Manifestation: What does it all mean? Welcome to Illumi-Nation, a new podcast under the umbrella of Susan Casey's company Rock Your Shine: After you've been cracked wide open and under the umbrella of Valerie Moon's company Valerie Moon Healing. Illumi-Nation serves as a transformative platform where a skilled psychic intuitive therapist (Susan Casey) and spiritual healer (Valerie Moon) collaborate to plant seeds of awakening in the hearts and minds of listeners. Susan and Valerie's mission is to guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them break free from the amnesia that accompanies our earthly experience. Through a blend of therapeutic insights and spiritual wisdom, they aim to trigger a profound remembering, reconnecting individuals with the inherent truths buried within their souls. Join Susan and Valerie in the exploration of self-awareness, healing, and the rediscovery of the timeless wisdom that resides within all of us. In this episode, Valerie and Susan talk about energy, vibration, and The chakra system is an invaluable tool for aligning your energy. Understanding your seven chakras can help you to manage your energy and increase your vibration, which leads to a healthier life and relationships. We emphasize that everyone has the ability to communicate energetically and that spiritual experiences are not just for a select few. Illumi-Nation's recorded shows air on Tuesdays followed by a live show every Wednesday at noon on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Susan and Valerie interact with their audience and answer questions about the recorded episodes. Host Bios: Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep-rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role in supporting many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor, she strongly supports those wishing to make a change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. Susan E. Casey, MSW, MFA, is an author, a psychic intuitive mental health clinician, a certified bereavement group facilitator, a certified life coach, and a podcaster. Throughout the past 30 years, Susan has worked in hospice, in-patient, and home-based settings with teens and adults, and taught numerous courses to executive leaders and clinicians. As a therapist and writer, Susan’s deepest passion is to bring expansive and transformational stories to the world through her weekly podcast episodes. For 2.5 years, Susan interviewed people from all over the world who have sustained a deep loss and experienced renewed hope and a shift in their perspective on life as a result. Susan transitioned her Rock Your Shine podcast into Illumi-Nation with co-host Valerie Moon to continue to provide both education and real-time help to those who are struggling and eager to learn why we are here and how to create the life you want. Susan’s Book: Connect with Valerie and Susan on their social media sites. Susan E Casey: YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Rockyourshine INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/susan.casey FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/susan.e.casey.3 LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanecasey/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey WEBSITE: https://rockyourshine.com/ EMAIL: [email protected] Valerie Moon: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemoonhealing/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoonhealing FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/valeriemoon23 /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29957848

125: Transforming Loss into Connection: A Conversation with Therapist Dr. Dawn DiRaimondo 01/31/2024

125: Transforming Loss into Connection: A Conversation with Therapist Dr. Dawn DiRaimondo Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Dawn DiRaimondo, a clinical psychologist who specializes in grief and loss after losing her brother Michael while he served in the army in Iraq. Dr. Dawn shares her experiences navigating grief and loss, both personally and professionally. She discusses her book 'Surviving Sibling Loss, The Invisible Thread That Connects Us Through Life and Death,' published in 2020, and highlights fundamental themes of grief and loss, such as anger, grief's impact on relationships, and how to navigate the aftermath of a loss. The episode also covers the beneficial role of therapy, the concept of grief as a passenger in our life's journey, and the importance of integrating lost loved ones into our lives. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: 0:00 Intro 3:13 About Dawn's brother 6:23 How this grief affected the role she played in the family 13:45 What it was like to deal with this while helping with other people with their own mental health issues 15:56 When she got into therapy 18:34 How to know if you need extra support 30:23 Does letting grief go mean loving your sibling any less 33:02 Importance of birthdays and anniversaries of death, and how to honor those dates 40:07 Providing her parents with support 45:23 What does self love mean to her 49:24 Faith is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Dr. Dawn Book: Connect with Susan https://www.tiktok.com/@susanecasey /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29727883

124: Using Humor to Cope with Grief with Jordon Ferber 01/24/2024

124: Using Humor to Cope with Grief with Jordon Ferber Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, I sit down with Jordon Ferber, a stand up comedian, podcaster and a bereaved sibling. We delve into Jordon's grief journey following the tragic loss of his 21-year-old brother, Russell, in a car accident on July 6th, 2002. Jordon shares how he established himself as a voice in the bereavement community, becoming the co-leader of the Compassionate Friends Manhattan Siblings Group for the past decade. He also launched his podcast 'Where's the Grief?'. His guests are (mostly) comedians who have experienced tragic loss. In this episode, Jordon also discusses the challenges he faced in integrating his loss into his comedy career, as well as the benefits he found in participating in bereavement groups. Jordon's story is a testament to resilience, the healing power of supportive communities, and the potential for humor to bring light into our darkest moments. He and his family run The Russell Ferber Foundation, which provides scholarships to the Culinary Institute of America. He produces a yearly comedy benefit show for the foundation, continuing to bring people together and carry on the spirit of his brother Russell through love and laughter. In his spare time, Jordon enjoys writing short blurbs about himself in the third person. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: 0:00 Intro 1:33 His story about his brother Russell 3:30 How his family handled the tragedy 4:53 How standup comedy supported him through grief 10:45 His drinking and how it affected his life 12:22 What is ‘compassionate friends’ 16:07 Starting to integrate loss into his life 26:16 The changing dynamic between him and his parents 31:23 How his brother's death changed his perspective on the world and his approach to life 33:57 Navigating friendships, losing friends, cutting people out 40:39 A shift to celebration 47:13 This episode’s Oracle Card 49:02 What does self love mean to him 51:02 Faith is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Jordon Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29619903

123: Behind the Lens: Healing Narratives with Edwin Stevens 01/17/2024

123: Behind the Lens: Healing Narratives with Edwin Stevens Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, Edwin Stevens, the filmmaker behind the poignant documentary 'Alice is Still Dead,' discusses how he navigated through the grief of losing his sister. He shares his journey of diving deep into the personal, tragic story of Alice's murder and his attempts to honor her memory through his art. Edwin also discusses the impact of grief on family dynamics, the struggle of living with loss, and how creating the film ultimately became a healing process for him. He emphasizes the essence of allowing oneself to grieve, accepting it, and persistently working through it. Edwin Pendleton Stevens is known for , and . **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: 0:00 Intro 1:44 Remembering Alice 2:08 Alice's Adoption and Early Life 2:53 Alice's Struggles and Tragic End 4:23 Dealing with Alice's Loss 5:32 The Impact of Alice's Death on the Family 6:10 The Complexity of Grief and Loss 8:03 Alice's Early Acting out 9:44 Alice's Adoption and Identity Crisis 12:25 How did his parents deal 16:58 His Father's death 25:27 Making a Film about Alice 32:24 Impact of Death on Relationships 32:59 The Role of Children in Healing 33:37 Regrets and Reflections 34:13 The Importance of Self-Reflection 34:40 The Consequences of Avoiding Grief 36:23 The Impact of Grief on Relationships 52:27 Final Thoughts on Grief and Healing 54:52 Utilizing Therapy 57:18 What does self love look like 59:50 What does faith mean to you Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Edwin Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29521908

122: Voices of Resilience: Healing Through Music with Christina Connors and Terry Murphy 01/10/2024

122: Voices of Resilience: Healing Through Music with Christina Connors and Terry Murphy Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this week's episode, we are joined by Christine Connors and Terry Clark Murphy, who are using the power of music, storytelling, and compassion to heal the emotional wounds of those who have experienced loss. They introduce their heartwarming initiative, Healing Chickadee, serving as an interactive, therapeutic tool that utilizes musical stories to foster emotional regulation and resilience in preschool children and their families. Christine Connors is releasing a musical series for children, 'Christina's Cottage', working closely with notable Disney Broadway composer David Friedman. Terry Clark Murphy, Founder and Chief Enthusiast of Chickadee Healing, shares how her personal experience led her to pivot from pain to healing through service. Through the Healing Chickadee, they aim to provide a compassionate, evolving space for children and adults alike to navigate their grief, fostering a deeper connection with themselves and their emotions. The episode highlights the transformative power of grief, the importance of staying open to service and opportunities, and the role of faith, self-love and patience in the healing journey. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: 0:00 Intro 1:22 Christina's loss of her brother 3:48 Terry's experience losing her brother 6:03 The Healing Chickadee 9:42 How does the Healing Chickadee impact children 13:14 How is their music incorporated 18:58 How has this work helped you heal yourself 27:54 Their journey with delayed grief 35:08 What are your plans for the growth and expansion of Chickadee 46:41 This episode’s card pull 47:14 What does self love look like 48:03 What does faith mean to you Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Christina Connect with Terry Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29420933

121: Overcoming Depression with Bill Daly 01/03/2024

121: Overcoming Depression with Bill Daly Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. Depression does not discriminate, as seen in the life of Bill Daly; growing up with a supportive family, sailing through high school academically, and having aspirations to play college soccer. Despite this seemingly perfect life, Bill spiraled into a deep depression at 18, marking a dark phase of his life. It gave him a newfound passion to help others suffering from mental health issues and spurred him on his path to finding peace within himself. This blog post explores Bill's journey, shedding light on how he transformed his suffering into strength, offering inspiration to individuals navigating their way through similar struggles. After high school, deep-seated feelings of being unprepared for college and adulthood led Bill to take a year off to travel with a friend. That's when everything began to fall apart. Despite visiting stunning, awe-inspiring places like the Grand Canyon, he couldn't appreciate or connect with their magnificence or the people around him. It seemed like a dark veil had descended, making him feel exceedingly anxious, fearful, and detached from his environment. With persistent sadness consuming him, Bill found himself losing weight, experiencing drastic mood swings, and being withdrawn. To cope, he sought help from psychiatry, which sparked a series of trials with various antidepressants. Yearning for relief, he even acquiesced to electric shock therapy but to no avail. His search for relief led him on various spiritual quests, inclusive of yoga, meditation, and vision quests. Nevertheless, the underlying problem persisted. After 25 long, grueling years of hardship and struggle, his father's passing marked a turning point. Upon losing his father, he reached the height of despair, contemplating ending his own life. However, this intense pain ultimately sparked the most profound transformation. He started to find signs of hope in the little things around him, such as the song of a bird he lovingly named Rose. From that point forward, Bill began redirecting his focus from the crippling pain of his depression to finding peace and radical acceptance. He sought solace in daily meditation and used flotation therapy to soothe his mind. More importantly, he worked on building a relationship with his heart and soul, which incredibly transformed his life. In a remarkable transition, he found love for himself and was able to love others deeply in return. He began to welcome his feelings of ‘good and bad’ without resistance, judgment or avoidance, giving him the freedom to feel, understand, and accept them. His journey led him to the realization that mere acceptance could be liberating, and through his continued self-love practices, he discovered an inner peace he’d never believed possible. Today, Bill utilizes his learned wisdom from years of battling his condition to aid others in their mental health journey. Being a shining beacon of resilience, he strives to be a compassionate listener, creating a judgment-free space for individuals to share their struggles. His experiences have taught him the transformative power of sharing his story and inviting vulnerability from others. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [0:00] Intro 1:50 Bill's Early Life and Onset of Depression 9:46 Bill's Struggles with Depression in College 11:19 Bill's Spiritual Journey and Search for Enlightenment 20:41 Relationship with family during this time 22:03 Bill's Struggles with Substance Abuse 22:21 Bill's Journey into Recovery and the 12 Steps 24:24 Bill's Continued Struggles and Attempts to Fill the Void 26:37 Bill's Father's Passing and Its Impact 27:31 Bill's Lowest Point and Desire to End His Life 27:45 Struggles with Sobriety 28:08 Returning to Old Habits 29:17 Finding Light in Detox 31:25 Finding Hope in Nature 33:05 Connecting with Higher Power 40:40 Working with Horses and Teaching Meditation 42:22 Oracle card pull 44:22 What self love means to Bill 45:38 Faith is 47:13 Reflecting on the Journey and Embracing All Emotions Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Bill Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29318308

(RERUN) How to Harness the Power of Our Intuition with Maryann B. Russell 12/27/2023

(RERUN) How to Harness the Power of Our Intuition with Maryann B. Russell Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, we are joined by Maryann, an intuitive soul reader who shares her insights on how we can connect with our intuition and find joy amidst grief. Maryann begins by explaining what an intuitive soul reader is and how she got introduced to it. She then shares how she receives her downloads and ways to differentiate between intuition and other external sources of information. Maryann also explores why people lose touch with their intuition and the different ways we can meditate to tap into it. She offers recommendations for people who are just starting their meditation practices and emphasizes the importance of learning how to sit quietly with our feelings. The conversation then shifts to the topic of grief and how we can find joy again amidst it. Maryann shares her thoughts on shifting from a place of feeling to wisdom and offers words of wisdom for those missing the physical presence of loved ones. Towards the end of the episode, Maryann talks about what self-love means to her and leaves us with a powerful message of hope. Maryann’s journey from many years of Emergency Nursing to alternative healing has included Massage Therapy and Reflexology education at the Polarity Realization Center in Portland, Maine and advanced training in CranioSacral Therapy at the Upledger Institute of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. She is also a Reiki Master/Teacher and enjoyed teaching the Doctors, Nurses and Volunteers of Southern Maine Hospice Center Reiki Level l paid for though a Grant the center was gifted as well as her part time faculty position at USM teaching Reiki. Her greatest gifts as an Intuitive, however, was re-awakened through her studies of Intuition Therapy and Soul Readings with renowned healer and author, Rosalie Deer Heart, which she now enjoys sharing world wide in her very busy practice. You can find Maryann in her Scarborough, Maine office, or catch her when she visits her Nashville, TN or Dallas, TX offices or enjoy a phone/Virtual session with her. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or new to the world of intuition, this episode has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the power of intuition, meditation, and self-love with Maryann. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:05] What is an Intuitive Soul Reader and how Maryann got introduced to it [2:40] How Maryann receives her downloads [5:40] Ways to know what comes from our intuition [6:40] Why people lose touch with their intuition [8:25] The different ways we can meditate [11:00] Recommendations for people who are starting their meditation practices [19:10] Learning how to sit quietly with our feelings [23:00] Shifting from a place of feeling to wisdom [29:35] Learning how to find joy again amidst grief [37:20] Words of wisdom for people missing the physical presence of loved ones [40:25] What self love means to Maryann [41:00] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Grief Hotline: Connect with Maryann here: Instagram: Twitter: Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29051303

(RERUN) How to Cope with Ambiguous Loss with Dr. Pauline Boss 12/20/2023

(RERUN) How to Cope with Ambiguous Loss with Dr. Pauline Boss **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. Have you heard of the term ‘Ambiguous Loss’? Dr. Pauline Boss coined this term in the 1970s. Today, the term is used in professional discourse as well as in the general public and arts communities. In her new book, she asks, “How do we begin to cope with loss that cannot be resolved?” Which is what we’re speaking about in this conversation. Pauline Boss, PhD, is emeritus professor at University of Minnesota. She is known worldwide for developing the theory of ambiguous loss and as a pioneer in the interdisciplinary study of family stress management. Dr. Boss is the author of Loss, Trauma, and Resilience: Therapeutic Work with Ambiguous Loss in addition to The Myth of Closure: Ambiguous Loss in a Time of Pandemic and Change. Listen in as we talk about: [2:00] The definition of Ambiguous Loss [7:15] How to live with deep trauma and ambiguous loss [12:15] How to hold space for people who have experienced ambiguous loss [16:00] The difference between sadness and depression [34:50] Tips to manage the stress after loss [41:40] An excerpt from Dr. Boss’ book [43:30] How to become more present with our loved ones Resources mentioned in this episode: Grief Hotline: Connect with Dr. Boss here: Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29051208

(RERUN) Death from the Perspective of a Hospice Nurse with Hadley Vlahos 12/13/2023

(RERUN) Death from the Perspective of a Hospice Nurse with Hadley Vlahos **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. Have you ever thought about what it looks and feels like when someone is nearing the end of their life and will be crossing over soon? In this episode, I speak with Nurse Hadley Vlahos, a registered nurse working in hospice care, and a mom, wife, and soon-to-be author from the New Orleans area. At just barely 20 years old Hadley became a mom, a single mom, and left her dreams of being a writer behind to pursue a more stable career path of becoming a registered nurse. After a year of working in the hospital and a nursing home, she felt immensely drawn to hospice. She has cared for hundreds, if not thousands, of patients at the end of their life in the most intimate setting - their own home. In 2019, Hadley and her family moved to a new city, away from everything and everyone she had ever known. After feeling pretty lonely, her husband suggested connecting with people on social media. So, she picked up the camera in early 2020 and started talking to it like a friend, telling stories from her work day. She has reached over one million other people and helps ease anxiety around death. Listen in as we talk about: Why Hadley shifted into being a hospice nurse How being a hospice nurse has shifted her perspective of death and dying The lessons she learned from her dying patients How she thinks about life now The power of social media when it comes to community and sharing our stories about loss Resources mentioned in this episode: Grief Hotline: Connect with Hadley here: Connect with Susan /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/29051088

120: Facing Pet Grief: A Talk with Hospice Veterinarian Jason Doll 12/06/2023

120: Facing Pet Grief: A Talk with Hospice Veterinarian Jason Doll Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this week's episode of Rock Your Shine podcast, guest Jason Doll, a hospice veterinarian from Lap of Love, discusses the complexities of handling pet loss. Jason, who hails from Central Pennsylvania and studied at Tufts University Veterinary School, shares how his work focuses on end-of-life care for pets, offering a compassionate approach to a challenging process. The episode offers insights into the importance of understanding and acknowledging the grief experienced by pet owners, and the significance of considering the beloved pets as family members. Jason also emphasizes the importance of narrative medicine - focusing on patient connection beyond mere lab results. We get into issues of decision-making at the end of a pet’s life, the role of veterinary teams in this process and how they can struggle with the weight of what they do. Jason highlights that veterinarians have the highest suicide rates of any medical profession, indicating a need for increased support and understanding of their work. He educates listeners about resources available for those who are saying goodbye to their pets, and the importance of supporting local veterinary services. In his dedication to honoring the humanity and humor found in life through animals, Jason expresses a sense of privilege in assisting these companions during one of their loved ones' most challenging moments. Following completion of veterinary school, he returned to his hometown in central Pennsylvania to engage in General Practice/Emergency Medicine. A particular fondness is reserved for senior pets. With a professional background in avian and zoo medicine, Jason takes pride in ensuring comfort not only for the animals but also for their human companions. The decision to transition to mobile end-of-life services came shortly after the loss of his mother, a physician and cat enthusiast. Jason aspires to carry on her legacy by providing support to every family he assists. His mission is to transform the most difficult day into a poignant memory that families will cherish, aiming to replace fear and resentment with a sense of solace and remembrance. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [0:00] Intro 02:15 Jason's Journey into End of Life Pet Care 02:29 The Importance of Patient Connection 03:24 The Changing Perception of Pet Ownership 03:59 The Increasing Need for End of Life Care for Pets 04:40 The Challenges of Pet Loss and Grief 05:43 Understanding Disenfranchised Grief 06:48 The Emotional Impact of Pet Loss 07:50 Celebrating the Life of Pets After Their Passing 08:57 The Deep Bond Between Humans and Pets 10:10 Reframing the Language Around Euthanasia 11:52 The Reality of Pet's End of Life 15:49 The Role of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice 18:20 The Emotional and Physical Challenges of Pet Care 19:21 The Importance of Planning for Pet's End of Life 23:42 Resources for Pet End of Life Care 25:20 Understanding Pet Insurance 25:39 Preparing for Pet's Life Stages 26:21 The Generosity of Lap of Love 27:31 Supporting Animal Welfare 29:03 Deciding on a New Pet 30:35 The Emotional Impact of Pet Loss 31:52 The Challenges Faced by Veterinarians 39:46 The Importance of Preparation and Responsibility in Pet Care 45:31 Celebrating the Joy Pets Bring 47:31 Understanding Self-Love and Faith Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Lap of Love, Portland Maine: Vet Angel (in-home euthanasia directory): https://www.vetangel.com/ CareCredit (credit care that many of my families use in place of insurance): Grief Hotline: Connect with Jason Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28949878

119: Becoming Independent in the Face of Loss with Shelly Ferrari 11/29/2023

119: Becoming Independent in the Face of Loss with Shelly Ferrari Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this week's episode, Shelly Ferrari, a retired real estate accountant, mother of two, grandmother of two and a great grandmother, shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and independence. Raised to be a wife, her life took a dramatic turn when she was forced to navigate the equally challenging roles of being a single parent, student, and supporting her family, after divorcing her first husband at a young age. Despite her trials, Shelly's story illustrates the power of determination, self-belief and persistence. She discusses how by following a deep knowing within her, she continuously made decisions that allowed her to transform her life and reach successful independence, imparting essential lessons for her daughters and others. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [0:00] Intro [1:15] Being raised to be a wife and mother versus an independent woman [3:28] Meeting her husband and get married [4:48] The change that inspired her to go down a different path [7:09] How she learned about her husband’s lies and drug use [9:18] Life after she kicked him out [12:37] Did faith or spirituality help her? [14:48] This episode’s Oracle card [17:09] How she shifted her life, and watched it expand and unfold [19:09] The community that believed in her and helped push her [30:57] Getting in touch with your deep knowing and finding deep courage [35:44] Learning to have faith in herself [36:33] What life looks like today [40:00] What does self love look like for you now? [40:30] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28837913

118: The Journey to Becoming a Death Doula with Laurie Jones 11/22/2023

118: The Journey to Becoming a Death Doula with Laurie Jones Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this intimate interview on 'Rock Your Shine', Laurie Jones, a talented musician who has faced profound grief and loss, joins me for a powerful and transformative conversation. Laurie discusses her journey into and through grief following the death of her mother, subsequent breast cancer diagnosis, and passing of her aunt. Her experiences led her toward a new calling as an end of life doula and music therapist after witnessing the impact of music and compassionate presence during these challenging moments. Laurie speaks candidly about her struggles with grief, her battle and recovery from breast cancer, the beauty she discovered in end-of-life care, and how her passion for music plays a crucial role in her newfound purpose. As she forges ahead on her new path, Laurie discusses her mission to illuminate the nature of death and encourage others to find beauty in this very human experience. Laurie Jones is a Maine based Singer/songwriter that had been dubbed “the missing link between Dusty Springfield and Tom Petty. She has been referred to as “Chrissie Hynde with a folk guitar” and compared to Sheryl Crow for her Americana and Folk-Rock influences. These comparisons she happily and humbly accepts. Influenced by a multitude of styles, Jones combines the craft of songwriting with her own unique sounds that range from Rock to Gospel. Whether playing her songs acoustic solo, or backed by her rock solid band, Jones delivers the lyrical sass and musical punch she has built her reputation on. Laurie Jones has recently announced her 7th, and latest album, Dark Horse. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [0:00] Intro [3:20] The passing of both her parents [8:55] Her belief about the afterlife before her mother passed away [19:35] Receiving a cancer diagnosis [23:45] Suffering through the news of her aunt [26:35] Coming up against her own mortality and downplaying her illness [31:20] Supporting her aunt during hospice [42:25] Her journey to becoming a death doula [45:15] Combining end of life doula with music therapy [49:10] This episode’s oracle card [50:50] What does self love look like for you now? [51:20] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Laurie Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28752778

117: How Energy Plays into Grief with Valerie Moon 11/15/2023

117: How Energy Plays into Grief with Valerie Moon Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, Valerie Moon joins me for a conversation on healing, spirituality, and manifestation. The discussion delves into the practice of shadow work, an energetic healing that focuses on shifting deep-rooted patterns, behaviors and traumas. We discuss the importance of self-love, the power of one's energy centers, and how maintaining a higher vibration leads to a healthier life and relationships. We emphasize that everyone has the ability to communicate energetically and that spiritual experiences are not just for a select few. Valerie also talks about her upcoming breath work and firewalking event on November 18th and the impact it can have on your life. Valerie Moon is a psychic medium that has extrasensory perception. Most people within the spiritual community describe her healing modality as "shadow work". This energetic healing helps to shift deep rooted patterns, behaviors, past life connections, ancestral traumas, or traumas that occurred in this current life. Valerie is also a soul seer and actively clears hauntings from houses, land, or people. She takes an active role to support many practitioners in understanding how to use their gifts. As a healer and mentor she strongly supports those wishing to make change and permanently shift into a higher vibration. Valerie holds a BA in Psychology as well as certifications in Breathwork and Reiki. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [0:00] Intro [2:40] The work we’re doing together and how they were introduced [4:00] The foundation of energy [6:05] Honoring our experiences and transmuting energy from darkness to light [14:15] How she got into this work [17:25] What shadow work is and where it originates from [22:45] The other side of judging ourselves [23:45] The energy behind guilt, shame and forgiveness, and how to let it go [27:00] Connecting with our higher guidance to clear our energetic channels [27:50] The transformative impacts of mediumship on grief [29:40] How our energetic fields get mucked up, and then how to cleanse it [30:30] Balancing our chakras [32:00] Finding balance within a triggered state [33:45] How to actually manifest [36:45] How external triggers are asking us to look at what needs healing internally [40:00] Shifting the mentality of 'giver' to 'receiver' [51:10] What does self love look like for you now? [51:40] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Valerie’s event: Grief Hotline: Connect with Valerie Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28646533

116: Losing a Twin with Tasha Cram 11/08/2023

116: Losing a Twin with Tasha Cram Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this emotionally charged episode, Tasha opens up about her unique bond with her twin sister, Tanya, who passed away, and how her spiritual awareness helped her navigate the depths of grief and discover a new connection with her twin from the other side. At the heart of this story is a profound loss, as Tasha shares the heart-wrenching experience of losing her twin sister, Tanya, and the impact it had on her life. Discover how a parent's spiritual awareness can shape a child's perspective on life and death and how it influenced Tasha's journey. Exploring the mysterious and deep connection between twins in the womb, a bond that goes far beyond the physical. Learn how grief rippled through her family and how each member coped with the loss in their own unique ways. Tasha shares her personal experiences and insights as she navigated the intricate and often challenging stages of the grief cycle. A profound shift occurs as she begins to connect with her twin sister from the other side, a moment that changes her perspective on life and death. Hear about a pivotal moment in her life when she meets Lisa, someone who understands the depth of her connection with her twin and how it opened up new possibilities. Explore the unique concept of the twin life cycle and how it impacts Tasha's understanding of her own existence. Delve into the intense thoughts and emotions that followed her sister's passing and the process of finding healing and acceptance. Unpack the pressure and guilt of living for both herself and her twin and the impact it had on her well-being. Tasha Cram, known in the twin community as Twinful Twin Tasha, began her twin loss journey just before she turned 4 years old. She spent 36 years of her life ignoring the need to address her complicated grief until she faced a major medical event. The experience finally forced her to confront the unhealed trauma she had suffered from losing her twin (identity). Tasha has since spent well over a decade educating herself about complicated grief, twin dynamics, twin loss, and deepening her spiritual practices. In doing so, she gained insights into tools to aid her in Turning Twin Loss into Living Twinfully. Tasha’s book has both aspects of her personal journey through complicated grief, as well as the complete content of her workshop. The G3 Cycle ~ Grief, Growth, Gratitude, which she lovingly shares for the first time with her readers. Turning Twin Loss into Living Twinfully is a culmination of all her research and is filled with proven tools to aid in the grief aspect of our human experience from the perspective of a twin loss twin. Tasha realizes that this is a first of its kind and hopes that it brings encouragement to the twin loss community that has been lacking. You can learn more about her other twin loss support efforts: The Butterfly Ranch (a retreat dedicated to twin loss twins), Journey of 1000 Healing Hugs, and the Twinful Tie Blanket Project, by visiting www.twinful.com. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [3:10] How she lost her twin, Tanya [5:00] The blessing of having a parent who had spiritual awareness [6:20] How twins bond and connect in the womb [15:30] The awareness of grief within her family [19:40] Going through the grief cycle [23:55] Developing a connection to her twin from the other side [30:20] Meeting Lisa and experiencing their connection for the first time [35:10] The twin life cycle [44:00] The deep challenging thoughts she experienced after her twin's death [46:50] The detrimental narrative twins have of 'living for the both of us' [48:45] Grappling with the guilt that radiation caused her sister's cancer [54:00] Feeling into the power of your soul [56:45] What does self love look like for you now? [57:00] Hope is… [58:15] Waking up to the truth of who we are Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Tasha’s book: Turning Twin Loss into Living Twinfully: Grief Hotline: Connect with Tasha Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28536737

115: Unbreakable Spirit: Loretta Carey's Journey of Resilience and Compassion 11/01/2023

115: Unbreakable Spirit: Loretta Carey's Journey of Resilience and Compassion Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. Loretta has a remarkable story of such profound trauma and deep resilience that she's going to be sharing with us today. She is a mother of one grown son and four beautiful grandchildren. In her professional life, she is now retired, but she has been a certified nursing assistant since 1978. And she now volunteers her time at the Veronica Smith Center in Brighton, Massachusetts, working with the elderly. For hobbies, Loretta enjoys baseball, football, hockey, and she loves to swim. Through these activities, she has discovered a sense of empowerment and a refreshing escape from life's challenges. Join us as we dive deeper into Loretta's story, learning about the transformative power of resilience and the importance of finding purpose and strength in the face of adversity. Loretta's journey serves as an inspiration and a reminder that no matter what obstacles we encounter, it is within our capacity to rise above and redefine our lives. Tune in to this captivating episode as we uncover the stories that shaped her, the lessons she has learned, and the wisdom she imparts to all who have the pleasure of hearing her speak. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:40] The start of her story in childhood and foster care [3:45] Being sexually assaulted as a child [7:55] Was she in therapy during these traumatic times? [9:50] Quitting school and getting into drugs and alcohol [11:45] Her life on the streets at 16 [16:05] Trying to get clean [21:50] Rebuilding her life and insight into her faith [27:35] Oracle reading by Susan [28:55] Her outlook as formed by her experiences [30:50] What is her truth [34:45] CNAs and having patience with the elderly [43:30] Her accident in February, her life and health now [49:00] What does self love look like for you now? [50:55] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Susan ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28481348

114: From Diagnosis to Transformation: Maggie Fisher's Journey with Cancer 10/25/2023

114: From Diagnosis to Transformation: Maggie Fisher's Journey with Cancer Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Maggie Fisher, a creative communicator, connector, and a nine-year breast cancer survivor. Maggie's life took a dramatic turn nine years ago when she received her breast cancer diagnosis. The journey she embarked on has been one of resilience, personal growth, and transformative healing. One of the most poignant moments in Maggie's story is her decision to inform her daughters about her diagnosis, highlighting the complexities of navigating illness within a family and the importance of open communication during challenging times. Maggie also shares her experience of initially being rejected from a retreat for cancer survivors but, ultimately, finding acceptance. This retreat became a turning point in her healing journey, demonstrating the profound impact of community and support during difficult times. Throughout the episode, we hear how Maggie's cancer experience has deeply impacted her work in the healthcare industry, showcasing the incredible personal growth that can emerge from adversity. Maggie's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the incredible potential for positive change, even in the face of life's greatest challenges. It's a journey of hope, self-love, and resilience that will undoubtedly inspire and uplift listeners. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:23] 9 years ago where was she and what was happening in her life [4:02] Breast cancer diagnosis [9:02] Did you tell your daughters what was going on? [13:23] Are you sharing your fears or how are you navigating this experience? [16:56] Being rejected from a retreat for cancer survivors [20:01] Getting a call and being accepted into the retreat [23:08] How did this experience turn you around? [28:49] Oracle card [32:47] What did life look like when you left the retreat? You were finished with chemo but had surgery still [43:41] How did this experience impact your work? [50:55] What does self love look like for you now? [54:59] Hope is… [55:36] Oracle reading by Susan [56:52] Final thoughts Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: Grief Hotline: Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28380404

113: Reinventing Serenity: Greg Dulac's Path from Crisis to Mindful Entrepreneurship 10/18/2023

113: Reinventing Serenity: Greg Dulac's Path from Crisis to Mindful Entrepreneurship Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this episode, join us for a transformative journey with Greg Dulac, the founder of SerenityMe. Discover how moments of frustration can spark life-changing breakthroughs and explore the various ways to measure success in one's career. Greg shares a personal story of hitting rock bottom and the pivotal moment when he realized he needed a change in his life. Delve into the steps that led him to rehabilitation and the profound healing he experienced there, surrendering to the process of self-discovery and change. Explore the magic of surrender and how it can catalyze powerful transformations. Greg recounts the reactions of his loved ones to his life changes and how these shifts ultimately led to the birth of his business idea in the mindfulness space. Learn about the significance of starting a new venture with purpose and intention, and gain insight into Greg's inspiring five-year vision and plan. Uncover the true essence of mindfulness and what self-love means to Greg, all while discovering what hope truly represents. This episode is a heartfelt and enlightening journey through personal growth and the pursuit of a more serene, mindful life. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:20] How frustration can lead to breakthroughs [3:05] Ways to measure success in your job [5:25] His rock bottom moment and how it impacted what he knew he needed [7:40] The steps that got him to rehab [10:30] His experience in rehab and how it helped him heal from addiction [15:25[ Surrendering to learning through rehab in order for him to make changes within himself [16:55] The magic of surrender [19:50] How his loved ones reacted to all of his life changes [23:00] How he came up with his business idea in the mindfulness space [27:05] Starting a new venture with purpose and intention [29:35] His 5 year vision and plan [34:00] What mindfulness really means [35:45] What self love means for him [37:30] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: L.E.A.P 6 week virtual course: Grief Hotline: Connect with Greg Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28323038

112: Part 2: The Power of Personal Accountability with Jeremiah J. Fulmer 10/11/2023

112: Part 2: The Power of Personal Accountability with Jeremiah J. Fulmer Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this enlightening episode, we sit down for part 2 with Jeremiah J. Fulmer, a Personal Growth Promoter, Transformational Development Educator, Coach, and an eternal student. We start by delving into what it looked and felt like getting released from jail after a tumultuous period. The guest opens up about the pivotal moment when they asked for support and help, setting the stage for a profound personal awakening. Coming home to family is never easy, and our guest reflects on the complex emotions and challenges they faced upon their return. Discover how their family reacted to the sudden loss of their presence, shedding light on the ripple effects of personal choices. We discuss the concept of grief as a 'new normal' and the resilient spirit required to adapt and thrive. Learn how our guest strives to raise their children consciously and intentionally, making the most of their second chance at life. The journey takes an inspiring turn as we delve into our guest's mission to help coach others through grief, sharing the transformative power of their experiences. Explore the profound process of facing traumas head-on, as our guest shares their own path to healing and growth. Self-love is a key theme in this episode, and our guest reveals what it means to them on their path to redemption. Finally, we wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on hope—what it represents and how it continues to light the way forward for our remarkable guest. Join us on this raw and powerful journey of self-discovery, redemption, and the unwavering human spirit. This episode will leave you inspired and uplifted as you witness the incredible capacity for transformation and growth within us all. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:15] What it looked and felt like getting released from jail [4:30] Asking for support and help [8:55] What it was like coming home to his family [12:25] How his family reacted to losing their dad so suddenly [17:10] Understanding grief as your ‘new normal’ [18:00] Doing his best to raise his kids consciously and intentionally [21:00] His journey to wanting to help coach others through grief [23:00] Learning how to face our traumas [25:20] What self love means for him [26:30] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: L.E.A.P 6 week virtual course: Grief Hotline: Connect with Jeremiah Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28284008

111: Part 1: The Power of Personal Accountability with Jeremiah J. Fulmer 10/04/2023

111: Part 1: The Power of Personal Accountability with Jeremiah J. Fulmer Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Jeremiah J. Fulmer, a Personal Growth Promoter, Transformational Development Educator, Coach, and an eternal student. Currently immersed in the study of Grief and Trauma Recovery, Jeremiah shares his insights into the transformative power of personal accountability. Jeremiah emphasizes that accountability extends beyond one's actions; it encompasses the profound realization that our minds and lives can only improve when we take full responsibility for them. He passionately asserts that if we desire our minds to be better and our lives to be different, it's not a 50-50 responsibility; it's a 100 percent commitment we must make to ourselves. Join us as we delve deep into the concept of personal accountability and discover how it can be a catalyst for personal growth and positive change. Jeremiah's wisdom and journey will inspire you to embrace accountability as a key to unlocking your true potential. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and actionable tips on how to take charge of your life and create the changes you desire. Jeremiah J. Fulmer's story and teachings are a testament to the incredible transformations that can occur when you fully embrace personal accountability. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [1:15] This episode’s grounding Oracle card [3:30] The deep trauma his mother’s actions caused him [8:40] Developing deep trauma triggers and how he was neurologically impacted from it [9:10] CPTSD, his memories of his childhood, and disciplinary actions and words [12:05] Adverse childhood experiences [15:30] Developing substance abuse problems in highschool [19:40] His plan for after graduation [21:55] The incident with his sister which led to jail time [32:30] Learning to take accountability for all he had experienced [34:00] Understanding where our beliefs come from and breaking generational trauma [38:!5] What was going on for him internally when he was in prison [44:30] How they pick which prisoners to transfer [46:00] Getting in trouble while in prison [50:10] The circumstances that led him to getting out early Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: L.E.A.P 6 week virtual course: Grief Hotline: Connect with Jeremiah Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28218710

110: Finding Hope After Loss: A Mother's Journey Through Grief and Healing with Elaine Suarez 09/27/2023

110: Finding Hope After Loss: A Mother's Journey Through Grief and Healing with Elaine Suarez Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. In this emotionally powerful episode, we delve into Elaine's heart-wrenching journey of loss, healing, and ultimately, finding hope amidst unimaginable grief. Join us as we explore the profound moments that shaped Elaine's path, without the constraints of time stamps. Elaine opens up about her beloved son, Joe, sharing who he was and the overwhelming grief that struck their lives with his sudden passing. Together with her husband, they bravely process the fateful day, attempting to make sense of the tragedy and searching for answers about how Joe died. The journey takes a haunting turn when they face the agonizing task of identifying Joe's body. We'll delve into the emotional rollercoaster of Joe's service and the depths of despair that led Elaine to self-medicate and contemplate ending her own life. Amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerges as Elaine recounts a remarkable visit from the spirit realm while in the hospital. The story takes a gripping twist as we discover how Elaine finally learns the cause of her son's death. As she bravely shares her path to healing, we'll explore how Elaine found the strength to release her anger and begin the process of acceptance. A touching moment of serendipity occurs when they uncover two heartfelt letters from Joe in their new house. Toward the end of this deeply moving conversation, Elaine reflects on what self-love truly means to her and shares her profound insight into the essence of hope. Join us on this poignant journey of loss, resilience, and the power of finding hope amidst the darkest of days. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [2:40] Who Joe was [10:20] The emotional and sudden passing of their son Joe [22:20] How her and her husband started to process the day their son died [25:50] Trying to get answers about how her son died [28:10] Not being able to identify their son’s body [31:30] What Joe’s service was like [37:45] Self medicating and trying to take her own life [39:30] Receiving a visit from spirit while in the hospital [42:50] How she found out her son's cause of death [49:05] How she started to let the anger go [59:20] Finding two letters from Joe in their new house [1:02:00] What self love means to Elaine [1:03:20] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: L.E.A.P 6 week virtual course: BetterHelp Go to for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. #sponsored Grief Hotline: Connect with Elaine Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28125974

109: The Healing Power of Words with Nichole Eaton 09/20/2023

109: The Healing Power of Words with Nichole Eaton Welcome to Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open. On this show, I sit down with people from all over the world to hear their transformational stories on their deep grief and loss journeys. Today, we have a special guest, Nichole Eaton. Nichole is the author of two powerful books, "Rock Your Comeback: The Down to Earth Guide to Reclaiming Your Power" and "Rock Your Soul: The Down-to-Earth Guide to Mastering Your Mind." She's not just an intuitive therapist, but a certified rule-breaker dedicated to helping you break free from beliefs that hold you back from success, happiness, and living your dream life. In this episode, we take a deep dive into Nichole's personal journey. She shares her experience of becoming a young mother, navigating school, and finding herself in a mentally heavy space. Tune in as we explore her courageous path while working in the mental health field, even when facing her own inner demons. Discover how Nichole managed to maintain awareness of her struggles while being in a tough spot. Learn about her powerful daily ritual of writing thank-you notes to the universe and how it has transformed her life. Nichole also reveals her three daily non-negotiables and provides a sneak peek into the incredible healing tools you can find in her books. Join us as we uncover the immense power that comes with becoming an intuitive therapist and gain insights into how long it takes to turn your life around when you're in a dark period. Nichole delves into her personal definition of self-love and shares her message of hope. It's a conversation that will inspire you to break free from your limitations and start living the life you've always dreamed of. So, grab your headphones and get ready to Rock Your Shine with Nichole Eaton in this empowering episode of the show. Remember, we do things differently here, and we're here to help you shine brighter than ever before. **TRIGGER WARNING** This episode covers sensitive subject matter and is not suitable for all listeners. If this topic could be a trigger for you, listen to this episode with a friend, a sibling, a loved one or a parent so you can talk about any emotions that come up for you. The contents of this episode are not intended to replace therapy and should not be taken as such. If you need immediate help, please call the crisis hotline listed below in our resources. Listen in as we talk about: [2:30] Start of her journey, becoming a young mom, school, and finding herself in a mentally heavy space [7:55] Working in the mental health space while she was in this darker mental space [9:40] Being in a tough spot and also having awareness around that [12:00] Writing a daily thank you note to the universe [18:25] Three daily non-negotiables [19:10] Healing tools you will learn in her book [25:50] The power that comes with becoming an intuitive therapist [31:20] How long it takes to turn things around when you’re in a dark period [35:15] What self love means to Nichole [36:30] Hope is… Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: L.E.A.P 6 week virtual course: BetterHelp Go to for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. #sponsored Grief Hotline: Connect with Nichole Book: Podcast: Connect with Susan https://rockyourshine.com/ ? /episode/index/show/leapwithsusan/id/28075668

Rock Your Shine: After you’ve been cracked wide open

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