Never Ever Give Up Hope

Do you want to succeed? Need to be inspired? Want to be a victor instead of a victim? Are you looking for coping mechanisms? This show shares stories of everyday people who refused to give up hope in the middle of insurmountable circumstances; people who have transformed their lives and want to give you their secrets of success. Their message is one of hope, encouragement, laughter and inspiration. No subject is off limits, i.e. abuse, failure, health issues, depression, coping with stress.

There are Good Days and Bad Days and Many In Between When Fighting Cancer 01/12/2026

There are Good Days and Bad Days and Many In Between When Fighting Cancer Cancer is a club you never want to belong to, but you find the most amazing people when you do. Erica Campbell has a group of women who bonded over their breast cancer journey. Together they know what it means to face illness head-on -- to confront mortality, search for strength, and build the resilience required to move forward. As a breast cancer survivor who also lost her mother to the disease, Erica speaks the 'vocabulary of cancer' from multiple perspectives. In her debut memoir, The Mastectomy I Always Wanted, she pairs honesty and vulnerability with practical, compassionate guidance for anyone navigating the mastectomy experience. You Are Not Alone At first it may feel like you are walking this path by yourself, but in time you will attract the people meant to support you and walk beside you. It may take a while, but some people care and want to help. Be intentional and rigorous in seeking out those you need. Knowledge is power, and community is contagious. Small Steps Create Hope “Sometimes during my journey, I allowed myself 24 hours to fully feel sadness or grief. After that, I made myself do anything that felt like the next right thing. Even tiny actions—brushing my hair, taking a walk around the block—gave me a sense of accomplishment. When self‑pity crept in, I quieted my mind and listened for the small inner voice guiding my next step. I learned that even the smallest amount of patience and progress can create hope.” An instant Amazon Best Seller in Breast Cancer, General Women’s Health, and Genetic Health! In this breast cancer book for women, Erica Neubert Campbell shares an intimate and encouraging story of her double mastectomy journey. This is a powerful companion guide for women navigating the choice to have a mastectomy or a lumpectomy. Empower yourself with this supportive resource to build trust and resilience–from the day you are diagnosed to the moment you realize: “I got this.” Choosing a mastectomy is more than losing your original breasts. It is about the power of self-discovery, personal choice, and mindset. In this book, you will learn that removing fear is just as important as removing cancer. Women and caregivers will understand that a double mastectomy is an outer journey of physical change and an inner journey of mental strength. “Are you okay with seeing my breasts?” Before her double mastectomy, a friend showed Erica her reconstructed breasts—and it changed everything. This rare moment of vulnerability allowed Erica to visualize the future and shift to a more hopeful perspective. Erica now pays this act forward with a candid and uplifting portrait of the mastectomy journey. Whether you are making your choice following a breast cancer diagnosis or a discovery of the BRCA gene, this mastectomy memoir will encourage you to trust yourself, accept your new body, and build resilience through tough times. Caregivers will gain a deeper understanding of the emotions of the diagnosis that are otherwise hard to describe. In this resource, discover: Empowering mastectomy book for women recently diagnosed with breast cancer or carrying the BRCA gene Over fifty candid photos of the mastectomy recovery experience Honest and authentic emotions around the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis Inspiration and tools for building strength in the double mastectomy journey Insights for breast cancer caregivers, family, and friends—granting them the power to support their loved one with compassion and understanding Erica Neubert Campbell, breast cancer survivor and longtime cancer advocate, shares this mastectomy memoir to provide healing and hope. The Mastectomy I Always Wanted is a must-read for women who are determined to rebuild their lives stronger than ever. If you’re seeking a source of breast cancer inspiration as you explore a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, read this book. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/39702875

How to Turn Your Disability to Ability and Soar Above Circumstances 01/02/2026

How to Turn Your Disability to Ability and Soar Above Circumstances When Jenna Udenberg was fifteen, she had a suicide plan due to tough medical issues and severe physical pain from her arthritis. She lived in bed. But she pulled herself from those very dark, tough times to become an inspiration to many who suffer from disabilities. Jenna Udenberg is a former music educator of 19 years. She has used a manual wheelchair since the age of eight due to Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Jenna is a 2017 Blandin Foundation Community Leader, a 2020 Bush Fellow, and a 2025 Shannon Leadership Institute Fellow. Writing for the Lake County Press in her column, "Local View from 4 foot 2, inspires vulnerability and the sharing of lived experiences from a seated perspective. In her interview, Jenna shared how she went from feeling hopeless to inspiring anyone who may be struggling with life-changing circumstances beyond their control. Why is disability not a bad word? ● Going beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act code matters, as we are not a checklist. ● Why are accessibility and inclusion important? ● How did you overcome daily challenges? XXXXX Life is always beautiful, no matter what it looks like, because of the tapestry of relationships and people. Make it colorful and unique. Within My Spokes is a collection of Jenna Udenberg’s life stories and the relationships that create her tapestry. From her childhood diagnosis of Juvenile Arthritis at age seven, Jenna fought through long journeys of medical battles, broken systems, discrimination, and ignorance. Jenna is a 2020 Bush Fellow and a disability advocate, activist, and accessibility educator. Readers have laughed and cried as they dug deeper into her shared life stories. This is a coming-of-age book about finding oneself, one’s purpose, and worth, sometimes through the most unlikely of relationships and circumstances. Within these stories, you will be taken on a journey of: Persevering and thriving through life’s unexpected adventures Timely friendships create safe, inclusive, and healthy spaces Healing (physical, spiritual, emotional) through the hurt of one’s past Faith Though our stories may be different, you may relate to experiences in this book of pain, growth and freedom that could help you on your journey. Jenna Udenberg grew up on the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. She is a disability advocate and accessibility educator. Jenna’s newspaper column, Local View from 4’ 2”, can be found in the Lake County Press. She loves working with others, including her non-profit, Above & Beyond With U. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/39593410

Are You Seeking Help After Being Abused by a Family Member? 12/19/2025

Are You Seeking Help After Being Abused by a Family Member? The average person can keep a secret for forty-seven hours. Babs Walters held the worst kind of secret for nearly seventy years. Beginning at the age of eleven, Walters suffered childhood sexual abuse at the hands of her father. His edict, “Children should be seen and not heard,” defined her childhood and groomed her to silence. But despite the cycle of generational trauma and abuse that haunted her childhood, Walters eventually had a life-changing realization: We are not what happens to us. We are the meaning and purpose we give to what happens to us. As a domestic violence and sexual abuse survivor, Babs has devoted much of her adult life to raising understanding and awareness of the long-term effects of generational trauma, breaking the chain. She holds a master's degree in counselling human relations and has spent thirteen years on a Harassment Investigation Committee. She was recently interviewed for Brave Voices® on the U.S. Library of Congress. It took being a self-help junkie, 45 years of therapy, three marriages, and many mistakes to reach this point in her life. Babs' story will bring awareness and hope to many who are struggling with abuse and hopelessness. XXXXX "Healing is not a destination - it's a journey and it does not matter how long it takes" For fans of The Glass Castle and Educated, a child sex abuse survivor-turned-domestic violence advocate examines the full circle of generational trauma, resilience, and healing. Babs Walters found that there are dark places that civilized people do not want to acknowledge. They would rather pretend it is a rare occurrence or that it does not happen in their family. Or they believe it is just too messy to get involved in. The child sexual assault statistics are high, although the majority of cases are not being reported. Babs' father grew up doing what was done to him. We need to break the chain! Connect with Babs Here /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/39478215

How Could Anyone Survive a Brain Aneurysm and Hemorrhage and Succeed in Life? 12/16/2025

How Could Anyone Survive a Brain Aneurysm and Hemorrhage and Succeed in Life? In 2018, Andrew Davie survived a ruptured brain aneurysm and hemorrhage. Now…he recently graduated with a clinical mental health counseling degree, practices as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor LGPC, consults for James Mason University about brain injury assessments, and, before her passing, cared for his mother while she had ALS. He learned how to turn a terrible situation into something good with the desire to help others who may be struggling. Andrew Davie has worked in theater, finance, and education. He taught English and creative writing at the middle, high school, and college levels for students with learning difficulties and ADHD. He taught English as a second language in the United States and abroad in Hong Kong. He has written short stories and novellas, co-hosts a music review show, and volunteers. During the second year of his recovery, when the physical part tapered off and the emotional part began, he decided to publish a book that would somehow transform his life, and it didn’t. But...that's not the end of the story. Even though his ability to experience emotional connections was blunted, the thought of being in a romantic relationship and starting a family suddenly seemed impossible. But he persevered and became a success. His story will encourage and inspire you to succeed at every challenge. Remind yourself that even moving an inch a day is still progressing! XXXX From Beyond: In the aftermath of the second opium war in Southeast Asia, Declan Malcolm, the newly elected captain, must navigate the treacherous high seas. Meanwhile, Civil War veterans Ridley and Dranoff are adjusting to post-reconstruction and become mercenaries for hire. Their paths cross by chance, but soon a celebration of good fortune turns into a fight against a supernatural foe. Further Beyond: Phineas O’Hanlon has spent the last few years of his life attempting to discover the cause of the reanimation. While reading over a journal from ancient Rome, O’Hanlon is visited by two law enforcement agents. As secrets are uncovered, can O’Hanlon discover the reason behind the resurrection of the deceased and move on with his life? Remote Beyond: On a small farm, four survivors of an apocalypse fend off the undead. As Tyler and his crew adjust to the new normal, the story covers ancient Rome, Norfolk, England, in the swinging ’60s, Egypt in 524 B.C., and one of the original American colonies. But will the answer to the resurrection of the undead ever be discovered? Connect with Andrew Here /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/39427925

Do You Know How to Get Free from Narcissistic Abuse? 11/27/2025

Is the Lie You Are Telling Other People, the Lie You Believe? 11/02/2025

Is the Lie You Are Telling Other People, the Lie You Believe? One day, Troy Karnes drank too much and missed his wife’s birthday dinner (that he had planned). To show her he could change, he put $10k into their joint bank account and told her he wanted to use it for a dream vacation a year later. If he messed up, she could take it. He didn’t last a month. She kicked him out of the house that afternoon. When he woke up in a hotel the next day, he watched the sunrise and had no idea where he had slept the night before, where he would be a week from then, or which company he might work for. He worked in the alcohol business his entire career but knew something had to change. It was a pretty hopeless moment. Troy is a father, husband, recovering alcoholic, and salesman—a cancer survivor, business consultant, and writer. His story of recovery has helped thousands and can guide each of us in making the decisions that change our lives. No Silver Bullets: Your life isn't broken. Stop trying to fix it. If youʼve tried all the quick fixes in standard self-help books but never got fixed, hereʼs a four-letter framework that brings you clarity, improves your mental health, and boosts your resilience. You may also lose fifty pounds. (I did.) What Youʼll Learn: Why the standard self-help doesnʼt work Science-backed insights linking food, mood, relationships, and energy. Proven strategies for Losing weight Reducing overthinking Maintaining sobriety Strengthening relationships Parenting a special needs child And more Plus, stories about Betty White Maverick And more Everyone thinks we should solve problems all the time, and I get it. Successful people make a lot of money running into problems, solving them, and then simplifying them for the masses. But in my experience, and according to my research, the biggest problems in our lives donʼt have solutions. A System You Wonʼt Forget Thatʼs why the HALT system works. It addresses the real problems in your life: H (Hungry): How it impacts your mood, health, and resilience. A (Angry): Learn practical ways to manage your emotions. All of them. L (Lonely): Strengthen your relationships. They are the most important thing you have. T (Tired): Figure out how to keep enough energy to make the most of your time. Connect with Troy Here (Twitter) /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/38883480

Could Your Struggles be Your Access to Wisdom and a Better Life? 10/29/2025

Could Your Struggles be Your Access to Wisdom and a Better Life? Lori Pappas plodded with a slow, heavy pace against resistance in her youth. Her parents had her committed when she was 16 years old because they could not control her. She was rebellious, and her mother, a religious fanatic, was convinced she was possessed by the devil. While there, she heard rumors that she was scheduled for shock treatments. She devised a plan and escaped - armed with only her smarts and determination. Lori made the difficult decision to become the architect of her life without emotional support or a safety net. She married the first man who loved her but gave up trying to navigate his paranoia when her career took off. Divorced, she started a business before falling into another unsatisfying relationship. She was like two different people for years. Her career defined her and was applauded professionally (award-winning and nationally acclaimed.) Homelife, however, was a different story, complicated and exhausting. She juggled being a mother of three, a wife, and a businesswoman for a long time. Lori sold her company for millions of dollars at the height of the tech market and tried to retire at 49. But the “American Dream life” bored her. At 57, Lori traded in her cushy life to start a non-profit to help Indigenous people gain a chance to live a healthy life. She moved to Ethiopia to build and implement initiatives for 100,000 extremely marginalized people in South Omo Valley (the corner of Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya). In her 60s, she met the love of her life online. She now has the time and mind-space to share the insights of her inner wise woman. You will love her story, and she will inspire you to live your life as you were destined to be. When did you last choose yourself without feeling guilty? Can't remember? You're not alone. Most of us spend our lives helping others while our own dreams collect dust. I did it too—even after breaking out of a mental institution at seventeen, building a multi-million-dollar tech company, and transforming 100,000 lives in Africa. I was still helping others while ignoring my needs to feel loved, connected, and at peace. That's when I created the D.R.E.A.M. method to save myself—and wrote The Magic of Yes to share it. This isn't just another self-help book. It's your practical guide to breaking free from what you can't even see. Inside, you'll get concrete tools to: Set boundaries that actually stick—without the guilt Stop people-pleasing—and start trusting your own voice Forgive yourself and others—so you can finally move forward Navigate major life transitions—empty nest, career changes, relationship shifts Access your inner wisdom—through proven D.R.E.A.M. prompts at the end of every chapter Each chapter blends real stories (mine and other women's), research-backed insights, and customizable exercises you can adapt to YOUR specific challenges. Whether you're drowning in "supposed-tos," exhausted from putting everyone first, or simply ready to reclaim your voice—this book meets you exactly where you are. Connect with Lori Here /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/38827580

How Do You Produce on Purpose to Experience a Full Life? 10/05/2025

How Do You Produce on Purpose to Experience a Full Life? Randy Adkins, Jr suffered the tragic loss of his 19-year-old younger brother over 20 years ago. Although that was devastating and a time of feeling helpless, it was also a time filled with questions that caused him to self-reflect and make life choices. Randy creatively weaves his experiences as a corporate consultant, ordained minister, community leader, and distinguished toastmaster into a tapestry, inspiring observers to integrate spiritual growth principles into everyday life. Randy has a passion for creating lasting change in people's lives through writing, teaching, and speaking. He is an altruistic leader, organizational visionary, captivating speaker, and respected adviser with a mission to inspire individuals to become leaders and take initiative. Randy challenged the audience with self-reflective questions. Are you aware of what your life is producing? Whether you realize it or not, your existence is producing something at all times. It’s time for you to start producing on purpose and experience a life full of joy, peace, fulfillment, and fruitfulness, to the glory of God. When you walk into a room.....you change the temperature Too many of us are living like actors. Actors work within someone else’s purpose. A good actor follows the direction of the director, and the director works to bring the movie to reality for the producer. Becoming the best actor is good, but you are capable of so much more than that. You were born to be more than an actor: you were made to produce. Randy Adkins Jr. shares from his life experience of trusting and growing in God in Produce on Purpose. In this book, you’ll learn: What does it mean to be a producer in your everyday life How to be connected in your body, soul, and spirit How to receive and obey God’s vision for your life Why you need to think with your heart and not your head The value found in seasons of transition How to live a life of overflow that glorifies God You’ll also find helpful workbook sections after each chapter that provide questions and action steps to help you grow to the next level in your life with God. It’s time for you to start producing on purpose and experience a life full of joy, peace, fulfillment, and fruitfulness, to the glory of God. CONNECT WITH RANDY HERE: /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/38470645

Stranger than Truth Story You Will Never Forget or Believe 09/29/2025

Stranger than Truth Story You Will Never Forget or Believe At 13 years old Sandra Schnakenburg was hit by a car traveling 100 mph while riding her bike. In addition to having her face reconstructed, she suffered a traumatic brain injury long before such injuries were widely understood. Her parents struggled to cope with her forgetfulness and memory loss, and they gave up trying. Thus began her 10-year struggle with bulimia, which shaped her in profound ways and deepened her appreciation for resilience and healing. Sandra Schnakenburg, a dual American/Australian citizen, holds a BS in Finance and International Business from Arizona State University and an MBA in Finance and Accounting from USC. After leaving a corporate finance career in 2010, she pursued creative nonfiction through courses at Writespace, Rice University, and The Writers University. From an early age, Sandra envisioned herself leading an amazing life, even during the darkest times. Every day she consciously chose to have a good attitude and looked for the positive, even in painful situations—asking herself, "What can I learn from this?" "Life has a way of continually testing me. When I overcome one challenge, a bigger one often appears. But I believe this is how our souls evolve—through adversity, we grow. My faith is my anchor, even as it is constantly tested, and it keeps me grounded through each trial." In her interview, Sandra challenges the listener to do the same. INTERVIEW For fans of stranger-than-truth stories, Sandy Schnakenburg uncovers rattling and unprecedented revelations in The Housekeeper’s Secret -- a powerful memoir of love, secrets, and survival. When Lee Metoyer is hired to be the new housekeeper, she has no idea that she’s about to become the anchor to a family in an abusive patriarch's home, setting a mystery in motion that will take decades to uncover. At the age of seventy-two, Lee falls ill and, on her deathbed, asks Sandy to author her story. The only problem is, Sandy doesn’t know the story. What happened to Lee was unimaginably horrific – nearly impossible to survive. Yet, she found a way to reinvent herself, adopting a new name, birthdate, and even fabricating an entire past. Forbidden from asking questions and often reprimanded for prying, Sandy had little insight into Lee’s true history. Embarking on a quest to honor Lee’s final wishes, Sandy takes an emotional and thrilling journey, unveiling shocking truths not only about her beloved housekeeper but also her own upbringing. As she digs further, she learns that Lee came to her family’s sprawling estate in Barrington, IL, harboring a secret past. For decades, she’s been in hiding. But Lee is not the only one with secrets; Sandy’s quest forces her to grapple with her own family history as well, and to finally confront the effects of the psychological abuse she suffered as a child. Both chilling and exciting, The Housekeeper’s Secret is a gripping tale of love and survival that illuminates the resilience of the human spirit. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/38400405

What are the 10 Publishing Myths You Need to Know and Understand 09/13/2025

What are the 10 Publishing Myths You Need to Know and Understand To all aspiring authors and those who have already been published, you will gain valuable knowledge about publishing from Terry Whalin. Terry Whalin is an editor and author of over 60 books and has written for more than 50 magazines. Several of Terry’s books have sold over 100,000 copies. Because of the common misconceptions and conflicting information about publishing, many authors are left confused when it is time to publish their book. These authors often focus only on the content of their book, but either ignore or do not fully understand the business side of publishing. This is where Terry can help authors to be realistic and well-informed about the publishing industry they are entering. During his interview, Terry explains what authors need to know about publishing so they can make their dreams a reality. He explains some of the biggest errors authors make regarding their expectations for their book. He clarifies the myths many authors are led to believe and what attributes contribute to their successes. 10 Publishing Myths offers authors the chance to succeed in the publishing world by giving them practical tools they can use to succeed and dodge the myths of the industry. The publishing world is filled with misconceptions and myths. Therefore, it is terrific for authors to have big ambitions as their book is being published, but it is also important to be realistic and understand the world of publishing. W. Terry Whalin has worked with hundreds of authors and published a number of bestsellers, and he knows that it is important to focus on creating a good book and not be realistic about the business aspects. Within 10 Publishing Myths, Terry focuses on giving authors a realistic picture of the book world, then detailing practical steps they can take to succeed. Inside 10 Publishing Myths, authors learn the actions they can take to succeed, they get a step-by-step guide for practical results, and so much more! /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/38209520

How Do You Grapple with Emotional or Social Issues That Haunt You? 08/18/2025

How Do You Grapple with Emotional or Social Issues That Haunt You? John Graham graduated from college with no real training, no direction, and no one to help him. As a result, he went through eight career detours, moving from state to state, feeling helpless, alone, and not knowing what to do or where to go much of the time. It was not until he and his wife committed to helping others who were struggling more they were and founded Good Samaritan Home that he found his place and a sense of purpose. John Graham had gone from homelessness, a series of career restarts over the years, to a business owner and a published author. He was a door-to-door salesman, children’s home counselor, substitute schoolteacher, truck driver, fireman, building contractor, minister, and journalist. At 75, he published his debut novel called Running As Fast As I Can, which had been rejected nearly 200 times. John is familiar with second, third, and fourth chances that many of us need to reach our goals. It is in developing what he calls calloused hands and a tender heart, along the journey. For Fans of WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING, A LITTLE LIFE, and FORREST GUMP "... often profound historical novel. Our verdict: GET IT!" - KIRKUS REVIEWS Growing up in the mill slums of Pittsburgh, Daniel Robinson was a punching bag for his drunken father, ignored by his mentally ill mother, and trapped in the grip of poverty. He’s finally freed from the torture of that home, only to crash land in another hell when he’s abused by the pastor who takes him in. Daniel escapes once again, spending the next decade wandering homeless throughout the country during the turbulent 1960s. On his journey, he gets caught up in the hippie drug invasion in San Francisco, racial violence in Cleveland and Detroit, and especially a deadly anti-war protest at Kent State. Daniel finally finds love with someone who was running from her own demons. Together, they get a second chance at happiness and the family they both want. Because of his experience on the street, Daniel is offered a job helping men coming from prison. When asked to find housing for Charles Vickers, a black man who spent twenty years in prison for a rape that Daniel is convinced he never committed, he and his wife open their own home to him. This enrages the community, especially when a local girl disappears. Violence erupts—with Daniel as the focus of their rage. Should he stay and fight for Charles—and put his family at risk, or run away again? RUNNING AS FAST AS I CAN is an unforgettable, multi-award-winning story about overcoming childhood abuse and the generational trauma of poverty to find love, forgiveness, and redemption. Daniel’s story, with its harrowing social themes conveyed through an intense personal odyssey, vividly portrays a traumatic period in our history, while grappling with intense emotional and social issues we still face today. CONNECT WITH JOHN HERE Good Samaritan Home Personal /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37866685

How Do You Grapple with Emotional or Social Issues That Haunt You? 08/18/2025

The Secret How to Maintain Your Mindset in the Middle of a Challenge 08/13/2025

The Secret How to Maintain Your Mindset in the Middle of a Challenge Jenn Todling had a mental breakdown after caring for her chronically ill spouse for five years. She felt trapped and hopeless, assuming she would never be able to leave the situation or have a fulfilling life. This was a turning point for her to realize that her mental health was at risk, and she needed to seek help and support. With a past life as an audit partner at Ernest and Young, a stint at the US Securities and Exchange Commission, and an adjunct faculty coach at the University of Denver, Jenn’s journey to become an author, speaker, and coach embodies the power of transformation. Jenn kept a journal of ideas she needed to share with the world - life lessons and guiding principles led to publishing her journey to help support people through transformation and help them become their most authentic selves. In her interview, Jenn shares: - The power of mindset in looking for hope in challenging situations. - How creative expression can help support us in getting unstuck from sticky situations. - How we can go after our dreams no matter our age or circumstances. "If you think you can or can't - You are right" - Henry Ford An inspirational book club read of one woman’s journey of taking the bold step to leave her disabled and volatile spouse and moving across the country in search of adventure, tango, and love. At the tender age of twenty, Jenn faces a pivotal moment when her boyfriend, Morey, proposes marriage after only a few weeks of dating. Her intuition urges her to say no, but she’s spent the entirety of her teenage years caregiving for family; she yearns for adventure, and she thinks relocating to California with Morey will give her the freedom she craves. So, she says yes—only to find herself back in the caregiver role after he becomes disabled a few years into their marriage. But it’s Morey’s volatile personality that ultimately leads Jenn to make a brave decision: it’s time to leave. Dancing on My Own Two Feet takes a poignant turn as Jenn relocates to New York City after her divorce. Here, she rediscovers a long-forgotten passion for dance and embarks on a transformative journey that transcends the physicality of movement. Each dance becomes a channel to tap into her inner wisdom, providing the courage to explore the world and embrace new adventures. Then Jenn encounters Gable, a potential suitor, prompting new questions to arise in her: Is she better off on her own? Or could Gable be the love and dance partner she’s been longing for? CONNECT WITH GINA HERE /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37801120

The Secret How to Maintain Your Mindset in the Middle of a Challenge 08/13/2025

How to Face Your Journey with Certainty Instead of Pain 08/09/2025

How to Face Your Journey with Certainty Instead of Pain From her humble beginning as a bartender to the sacred halls of the convent and through the trials of tumultuous relationships and alcoholism, Gina Economopoulos grapples with loss, grief, and the pursuit of self-discovery. From the agonizing decision to leave the convent behind to the numbing embrace of alcoholism, every step of her journey is fraught with uncertainty and pain. Yet, through sheer resilience and unwavering determination, she begins the process of healing, learning to let go of the past and forge new connections in the present. Gina Economopoulos was born in Syosset, NY, to a strong Italian and Greek-loving family. She graduated from Eastern CT State University and bartended before embarking on a 12-year convent journey after her mother's passing. Settled on the Jersey Shore, Gina now works as an End-of-Life Doula, extending her compassionate heart to those in their final chapter. She found solace in sobriety as a proud Alcoholics Anonymous member, and her story of resilience through tragedy and faith inspires others to face life's challenges. Gina found her fiancé dead from alcoholism a month before her wedding day. Her story is raw and passionate. It will inspire you to never ever give up: INTERVIEW From bartending to the nunnery and back again. Embark on a transformative journey with Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk, a stirring memoir that traces Gina Economopoulos's path from despair to redemption. From her humble beginning as a bartender to the sacred halls of the convent and through the trials of tumultuous relationships and alcoholism, she grapples with loss, grief, and the pursuit of self-discovery. With honesty, she invites readers to witness her quest to reclaim her life amidst chaos. As the author navigates the labyrinth of her own emotions, readers are drawn into the landscape of her struggles. From the agonizing decision to leave the convent behind to the numbing embrace of alcoholism, every step of her journey is fraught with uncertainty and pain. Yet, through sheer resilience and unwavering determination, she begins the arduous process of healing, learning to let go of the past and forge new connections in the present. Her unwavering faith serves as a guiding light through the darkest of nights, illuminating a path toward self-acceptance and forgiveness. Through her words, she offers a profound insight into the human condition, reminding readers of the power of resilience and the transformative nature of love. Shake The Dust Off Your Feet and Walk is more than just a memoir—it is a testament to the power of the human spirit to find healing in faith, time, and self-discovery. By the journey's end, readers are left with a profound sense of admiration for Gina's courage and perseverance. Her story serves as a reminder that no matter how daunting the road ahead may seem, there is always hope waiting to be discovered in the most unlikely of places. Join the author on a journey of self-discovery and redemption in Shake The Dust Off Your Feet and Walk. Let her words inspire you to confront your own struggles with grace and resilience and emerge stronger on the other side. This memoir is a testament to the enduring power of faith to rise above adversity and find peace amidst the chaos. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37744660

How to Face Your Journey with Certainty Instead of Pain 08/09/2025

How Would You Respond if You Had 1% Chance of Survival from Disease? 07/28/2025

How Would You Respond if You Had 1% Chance of Survival from Disease? In 2004, Madelaine Weiss had a flesh-eating disease, which started as strep throat and extended into her arm. She had a 1% chance of survival. The doctors were threatening to remove her upper right quadrant, but after seven weeks in the hospital and three months off her post at Harvard Medical School, here she is – happy, healthy, prosperous, and productive with a smile. Madelaine Weiss is a Harvard-trained licensed psychotherapist and mindset expert, with an MBA and board certification in executive, career, and life coaching. She is the founder and former chair of The School-Business Partnership, former parenting education facilitator, group mental health practice administrative director, corporate chief organizational development officer, associate director of an educational resource program at Harvard Medical School, and bestselling author of “Getting to G.R.E.A.T. 5-Step Strategy for Work and Life.” "The harder a decision is to make..... STOP and take time to listen to your inner voice." Madelaine shares her full story in her interview and points you to building your best adventures in life. I"A great life depends on a great fit between who we are and the environments in which we work and live." Getting to G.R.E.A.T. is a lively, practical guidebook for living with a proven method that has already changed so many lives. Loaded with science and stories, each information-packed chapter launches with a topic-relevant vignette from the author's own experience, moves to research and practical recommendations on each chapter topic, and concludes with a chapter-specific case example and exercise for personal use. Beginning with the pivotal event that shaped the trajectory of her work and life, Madelaine Weiss reveals a powerfully effective five-step strategy for satisfaction and success in your own work and life. DIVE INTO A WORLD WHERE YOU AND YOUR BRAIN TEAM UP TO BUILD THE STORIES OF YOUR LIFE! 🌟 Readers' Favorite 5-Star Review:"This great book aims to teach young people how to harness the power of their brains so they can live happily." Meet Brainy, your smart and friendly guide, ready to help you build adventures filled with learning and excitement. This workbook is your journey into the heart of imagination and possibility. Each page will help you learn to navigate the twists and turns of school and life creatively and confidently. With her Harvard-trained expertise and heartfelt approach, Madelaine invites young explorers to understand their inner and outer worlds. Discover how to mix your heart’s whispers with your brain’s wisdom to create a life that sparkles with discovery and joy. FOR KIDS: Unleash the inner author and hero in you! What amazing tales will you create? FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS: This workbook fosters resilience, sparks curiosity, and infuses joy into learning. It's a tool that connects children with you—and with the power of their stories, dreamed up with their brains and hearts. Madelaine Claire Weiss, LICSW, MBA, BCC, is a Harvard-trained licensed psychotherapist, mindset expert, and board-certified executive, career, and life coach. She is the founder and former chair of The School-Business Partnership in Acton, Massachusetts, a parenting education facilitator for the Massachusetts court system, and a current outreach volunteer with DC Tutoring and Mentoring Initiative (DCTMI) in Washington, DC. Madelaine is a co-author in the Handbook of Stressful Transitions Across the Lifespan and a bestselling author of Getting to G.R.E.A.T.: 5-Step Strategy for Work and Life. She created Brainy to help teach kids what her adult clients wish they had learned much earlier in their lives. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37578810

How Would You Respond if You Had 1% Chance of Survival from Disease? 07/28/2025

How To Bring Joy Back To the Workplace 07/21/2025

How To Bring Joy Back To the Workplace Dr. Danny Brassell is a highly sought-after speaker, trainer, and coach known as “Jim Carrey with a PH.D.” Dr Danny went to 18 schools before he was 12 years old, and everyone made fun of him because he stuttered. It is ironic that he now gets paid huge sums of money to travel the world and help people speak. Dr. Brassell has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide and authored 18 books, including his latest, Misfits and Crackpots. As the co-founder of the world’s top reading engagement program, Danny is on a mission to bring JOY back into education and the workplace. He helps entrepreneurs, individuals, and organizations leverage speaking on stages as a major client lead source. Dr. Danny Brassell never gave up hope. He defines himself as a puppy dog – easily distracted and curious. When he realized that many people struggle with crafting speeches that boost their business, he knew he could make a valuable contribution. During Dr. Brassell's interview, he will provide you with steps on the 5 C's process to help you craft your well-written story. from Dr. Brassell Dr.Danny Brassell, America's Leading Reading Ambassador, shares inspiring stories of triumph over adversity that reveal how ordinary people achieve extraordinary things - and how you can too. Through 50 captivating stories of success against all odds, this book reveals the universal principles that drive extraordinary achievement. From humble beginnings to lasting legacies, each chapter illuminates timeless lessons about: The power of unwavering determination Finding opportunity in life's challenges Building meaningful relationships Maintaining focus despite setbacks Leading with purpose and vision Creating positive change in the world Drawing on diverse examples across history, business, sports, and the arts, these inspiring narratives demonstrate that greatness isn't about innate talent - it's about choice, mindset, and perseverance. Whether you're an aspiring leader, entrepreneur, educator or someone seeking personal growth, these stories will motivate you to unlock your own potential and pursue excellence in everything you do. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37485305

How to Survive the Trauma and Find Hope to Endure the Hidden Pain 07/14/2025

How to Survive the Trauma and Find Hope to Endure the Hidden Pain When Dr. Beverly J. Armento was 23, in her first year of teaching, and after 17 years of physical and emotional abuse, she was at her darkest hour and considered suicide. She struggled through the night, listening to the voices in her head and hearing what former teachers and students were arguing with her about the pros and cons of that choice. By dawn, she came out on the other side of hopeless toward home. She had clarity on her purpose in life with the drive to live free from the fear and trauma in her current state. Dr. Beverly J. Armento, professor, educator, author, speaker, and advocate, was responsible for her blind, artistic, and mentally ill mother. To people around her, she seemed to excel at school and in the world, but inside, Beverly was cowed by her mother's rage and delusions. In her interview, she tells the story of twenty years struggling to survive the trauma and the next twenty years of how she found hope to survive through the hidden pain. INTERVIEW As the “Seeing Eye Girl” for her blind, artistic, and mentally ill mother, Beverly Armento was intimately connected with and responsible for her, even though her mother physically and emotionally abused her. She was Strong Beverly at school—excellent in academics and mentored by caring teachers—but at home, she was Weak Beverly, cowed by her mother’s rage and delusions. Beverly's mother regained her sight with two corneal transplants in 1950 and went on to enjoy a moment of fame as an artist. Still, these positive turns did nothing to stop her disintegration into her delusional world of communists, radiation, and lurking Italians. To survive, Beverly had to be resilient and hopeful that better days could be ahead. But first, she had to confront essential ethical issues about her caregiving role in her family. In this emotional memoir, Beverly shares the coping strategies she invented to get herself through the trials of her young life, and how school and church served as refuges over the course of her journey. Breaking the psychological chains that bound her to her mother would prove to be the most difficult challenge of her life—and, ultimately, the most liberating one. 2023 Nonfiction Book Awards Gold Winner 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist in Autobiography/Biography 2022 Foreword INDIES Finalist in Autobiography & Memoir—Adult Nonfiction 2022 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards Honorable Mention in Non-Fiction—Autobiography 2022 IPPY Awards Bronze Winner in Autobiography II—Coming of Age/Family “Sublime writing brightens an unforgettable, harrowing personal account.”—Kirkus Reviews /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37401310

How to Survive the Trauma and Find Hope to Endure the Hidden Pain 07/14/2025

You Can Break Through Severe Generational Trauma Including Holocaust Survival 07/10/2025

You Can Break Through Severe Generational Trauma Including Holocaust Survival Willie Handler is a child of two Holocaust survivors and has inherited not only their trauma but also their resilience. That resilience helped him battle through life’s challenges. Willie Handler has reinvented himself on several occasions throughout his work career. He has been a hospital administrator, a government policy manager, an insurance expert, and a consultant. Following his retirement from the government, Willie began a writing career. Growing antisemitism and Holocaust denial motivated Willie to research and write about his family’s story during the Holocaust and the impact it had on him. Willie has published three satirical fiction novels over the past few years. His latest book is a memoir focusing on growing up as a child of Holocaust survivors. He is currently working on a book dealing with generational trauma in descendants of Holocaust survivors. In light of what is happening in the world, this interview with Willie is timely and enlightening. Growing up, the author and his family constantly lived under the shadow of the Holocaust. There was persistent tension at home. He was frequently told: “Finish your dinner. We didn’t have food like this in the camps.” His parents only provided bits and pieces of their Holocaust experiences since he “didn’t need to know.” A few years ago, Willie Handler decided that he did need to know. Thus began a journey into his family’s past, eventually revealing their extraordinary survival and the painful losses that came with it. Their stories reflect not only the evil that swept Europe in the 1930s and 1940s, but also the resilience of the human spirit. His parents appeared to have taken some shocking secrets to their graves, forcing the author to view them in a different light. With the acknowledgement of his own buried trauma, and following years of research, he has finally stepped out of the shadows. /episode/index/show/neverevergiveuphope/id/37366360

Never Ever Give Up Hope

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