Inspiring Journeys

Embark on a transformative adventure with Inspiring Journeys (formerly Journey of the Rhode Runner), where every step is a story waiting to be told, and every tale sparks the flame of inspiration. Join our hosts, Paul Stroessner and Kerri Nelson, as we navigate the profound narratives of those who've conquered mountains, faced challenges head-on, and emerged stronger than ever. Inspiring Journeys is not just a podcast; it's a celebration of the human spirit. We bring you real stories from real people who've navigated life's twists and turns, emerging victorious. From triumphs to tribulations, our guests share their inspiring tales, and our hosts provide insights that ignite the spark within. Our mission is twofold — to share incredible stories that inspire and to encourage every listener to embark on their unique journey, discovering the paths they are meant to tread. Join us weekly as we dive into the heart of inspiring journeys, leaving you motivated, empowered, and ready to embark on your own path of self-discovery. Subscribe to the "Inspiring Journeys" podcast, and let the stories of resilience, courage, and triumph fuel your own extraordinary journey.

GenX Journeys: Return to the '80s: Episode 1 - Journey 07/21/2024

Episode 18: Once in a Lifetime with Suzanne Mattaboni 06/05/2024

Episode 18: Once in a Lifetime with Suzanne Mattaboni On this episode of Inspiring Journeys, Paul defies Ghostbuster Dr. Egon Spengler's advice about not crossing the streams as we welcome Suzanne Mattaboni, co-host of Paul's other show, The GenX Book Club, to this show. Suzanne is an award-winning writer and the author of the coming-of-age novel , which is set in the 1980s. She recently released a 2nd edition of this book, and it is the June Book of the Month for We talk about 70s and 80s pop culture, the writing and publishing process, and the necessity to be resilient and positive in order to survive and thrive in the publishing industry. This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Daniel LaBella Cpl Daniel James LaBella USMC January 16, 1987 – January 1, 2008 My brother and I grew up in Coram, NY. Ever since we were little, my older brother, Danny, always wanted to be in the Marines and go to war and have a family. We have three other brothers: Christopher, Jacob, and Patrick. My brother loved to spy on me when I was younger and get me into trouble when I was not doing what I was supposed to do. He loved building model cars. He loved playing in little league. He loved camping and hanging with friends. He loved to write and read. His favorite movies were the Ghostbusters movies and Star Wars Movies. He loved the New York Yankees with a passion. He was deployed in November 2006 to Iraq. He came home and was not the same. He struggled with drinking and even had one prior suicide attempt before completing suicide January 1, 2008. He left two daughters behind, Londyn and Faith, who miss him terribly. My brother was too stubborn to accept help or want it. But that was how my brother was. States he called home: New York, Florida, and West Virginia Resting Place: Locust Valley Cemetery, Locust Valley, Long Island NY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once in a Lifetime can be purchased anywhere you can purchase books, including You can also get it on Suzanne can also be found on: Instagram: X: --------------------------------------------------------------- Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31620737

Episode 17: Creating Your Own Narrative with Angie Leitnaker 05/29/2024

Episode 17: Creating Your Own Narrative with Angie Leitnaker On this episode we are thrilled to welcome Angie Leitnaker. Angie’s journey through personal growth and overcoming grief has made her a passionate advocate for human potential. With 13 years of teaching experience and extensive work hosting global retreats, she has dedicated herself to helping others discover their inner greatness. Angie believes everyone wants to be seen, heard, and valued, and she emphasizes practical tools to not just survive, but truly thrive. Founder of C.A.P.E. Global, she empowers children and adults to break through barriers and achieve lasting fulfillment. Join us as we explore Angie’s inspiring journey and insights, and how can discover or rediscover your own inner greatness! This episode is dedicsted to 22 Too Many veteran Andrew Saunders Andrew Jonathan Saunders, 25, passed away Wednesday, September 2, 2015. He was born in Asheville, NC on April 27, 1990 to Susan and William Saunders. Andrew went to school in Ridgecrest, CA where he found a love for playing music in jazz band with the trumpet, as well as playing guitar almost nonstop with his many friends. In addition to his musical talent, Andrew was also an accomplished discus thrower, being voted MVP two years in a row before competing in a CIF Championship. Andrew joined the US Army after high school. Once he graduated from basic training at the top of his class, he went to Apache helicopter mechanic training, where he also graduated top of his class. After tours in Ansbach, Germany, and Afghanistan, Andrew learned that he had been accepted into flight school, realizing his dream. After graduating from warrant officer school, he finished flight school as the “Distinguished Graduate.” He was then assigned as a Blackhawk pilot at Fort Carson, CO, where he was living at the time of his death. Andrew lived life to the fullest and brought out the best in everyone who knew him. He loved deeply and made lifelong friendships at every turn of his life. Andrew is survived by his mother Susan Lasell, step-father Richard Lasell, brother Brian Hoppus, and sister Sarah Hoppus. Final Rest: Riverside National Cemetery. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Angie can be found at Instagram: Facebook: --------------------------------------------------------------- Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31520482

Episode 16: Get the Funk Out and Get Into Alignment with Molly Smith 05/22/2024

Episode 16: Get the Funk Out and Get Into Alignment with Molly Smith Today, we have a truly special guest with us: Molly Smith. Often described as the female “Ted Lasso,” Molly brings an infectious blend of grit and positivity to everything she does, earning her the endearing moniker #mollypositivepants. Molly is deeply committed to personal growth, the potential of those around her, and the success of the companies she leads. In March 2019, she made a life-altering decision to prioritize her health, a journey that not only transformed her own life but also inspired her to help others overcome similar obstacles. With her unique, self-deprecating humor and unwavering positivity, Molly has touched the lives of thousands. As the founder and Chief Positivity Officer of Next Best Step LLC, Molly is dedicated to helping people take their next best step in health, mindset, and purpose. A sought-after speaker for women’s groups and various podcasts, she is also working on her first book, "What the Funk?! How to Get Out of the Funk You Are In by Creating Alignment in Your Life." So, join us as we dive into Molly's inspiring journey and learn how she continues to spread positivity and make a meaningful impact on the world. This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many veteran: Jeffery Olmstead SMSGT Jeffery Wayne Olmstead, age 50, was born in Dallas, Texas, on September, 1967. Jeffery entered the kingdom of heaven on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 in Los Lunas, NM. He suffered silently from the invisible wounds of war. SMSGT Olmstead served his country in the United States Air Force for 22 years until his retirement on October, 2010. While he served his country, he met the love of his life, Rosita Cano, while she was also serving in the United States Air Force. Jeffery served multiple tours of duty in Desert Storm, Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan, earning him multiple decorations, medals, Badges, Citations, Campaign Ribbons and honors. After his retirement, Jeffery went to work for the Air Force Research Labs at Kirtland Air Force Base. His greatest accomplishments were the days that he coached his daughter’s swim, basketball & soccer teams in Alaska and Los Lunas, as well as his son’s basketball, baseball and soccer teams in Los Lunas. Jeffery was the BIGGEST most dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan you ever met. He and his wife were married 25 years. He loved his Dallas Cowboys, but most of all, his six children and seven grandchildren. Places he called home: Alaska, Washington State, Nebraska (was stationed at Offutt AFB) and Dallas, Texas ------------------------------------------------------------------- Molly can be found on: Instagram () and she can be emailed at --------------------------------------------------------------- Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31425117

Episode 15: The Rhode to the Marine Corps Marathon with Paul Stroessner 05/15/2024

Episode 15: The Rhode to the Marine Corps Marathon with Paul Stroessner Paul has signed up for his very first marathon! He will be running the Marine Corps Marathon on October 27 this year (2024). Paul discusses his decision with Kerri, and talks about what led to this decision and they talk about the road ahead. This episode is dedicated to veteran: US Marine Corporal Pamela K Dowling, born 1987, in Vermillion, South Dakota, beloved daughter of Kelli Dowling and Robert Hanson, beloved sister of Paige Dowling. Pamela was raised in Portland and Estacada, Oregon. She was a graduate of Estacada High School, and a graduate from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelors degree. Pamela recently left her job as a Social Worker to a Sales Counselor. Pamela joined the United States Marine Corps and was based at Camp Pendleton, in San Diego County, California. She deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of the Global War on Terror. Cpl Dowling earned numerous awards and commendations during her honorable service, she attained the rank of corporal. From the mother of Cpl Dowling, Kelli: “Our daughter was a true hero and a winner! She was loved by her family and all her friends. A part of me died that day. No parent should ever have to bury their child. I’m so heart broken, I’ll never be same again as well as her Dad and our entire family. I love you, Pam. We must help our soldiers! They are true heroes, like our daughter, Pamela. I love you, honey. I’m only here because of Paige. I wish I could have taken your place honey. Rest in peace with the Angels, my baby girl. I will see you again.” Cpl Pamela K Dowling lost her battle with PTS, May 22, 2015. She was 28 years old. She now rests peacefully at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon. --------------------------------------------------------------- Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31313252

Episode 14: The Extraordinary Inspiring Journey of Terry Yoffe 05/08/2024

Episode 14: The Extraordinary Inspiring Journey of Terry Yoffe Today we welcome Terry Yoffe to the show! Terry's journey is one of transformation and empowerment. After years in the corporate world, she broke those golden handcuffs and seamlessly transitioned into a role as an executive business coach. For the past 2 decades, Terry has been guiding her clients towards realizing their full potential. But Terry's impact doesn't stop there! As host of her own podcast, Extraordinary Work: Conversations about Creating Change, she shines a spotlight on those individuals who are making waves in their own spheres, driving positive change and innovation. Come listen to how Terry has constantly reinvented herself, taking herself to the next level each time, and be inspired knowing you have the ability to do the same thing! As this episode was recorded on May 5 - National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day, this episode is dedicated to: Hanna Harris Hanna Harris was born on May 5, 1992, a citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. She was only 21 on July 4, 2013 when she left the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation to go into nearby Lame Deer, Montana, to watch the Independence Day fireworks. She never returned home. When her family reported her missing, local law enforcement downplayed her disappearance. Four days later, a volunteer search team found her body. It was determined that she was brutally raped and murdered. In some tribal communities, Native American Women face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average; homicide is the 4th leading cause of death for Native women and girls between the ages of 1 and 19, and the 5th leading cause of death for ages 20 to 24. Almost half of all Native American women have experienced physical violence, and one of three will, at some point in their life, experience the violence and trauma of rape according to the Department of Justice. Help support to bring awareness and fight against these injustices. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Terry Yoffe can be reached at the following places: Instagram: email: You can also listen ter her podcast, Extraordinary Work: Conversations about Creating Change on --------------------------------------------------------------- Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31202277

Episode 13: Kerri and Chris Run a Marathon 05/01/2024

Episode 13: Kerri and Chris Run a Marathon Inspiring Journeys' own Kerri Nelson, and Chris Marino, whose incredible story can be heard on Episode 8 of Inspiring Journeys, completed the 2024 Boston Marathon! We get to live vicariously through them on Marathon Monday as give their experiences from the Marathon Expo to the trip to the starting line, to the race itself. And a little potty talk in between. This is a great episode for runners to either relive the historic marathon, or inspire them to want to run it. It is also great for non runners to go behind the scenes of a run. This annual event is also the pinnacle of inspiration, which lives up to this podcast's name! By the time Kerri and Chris take the left on to Boylston, you'll be ready to lace up some running shoes yourself! Also, this episode's 22 Too Many veteran is Dirk Dastrup March 22, 1999 – July 29, 2021 Dirk was an active-duty airman, stationed at Hurlburt Field in the Florida Panhandle. Dirk Anthony Dastrup, was born and raised in Benson, AZ. Dirk had a heart of gold. His passion was always to rescue others. He always had an ear for his friends’ troubles. He loved the ocean. He had no problem swimming at 11 o’clock at night. He was learning to snorkel and scuba dive while stationed in Florida. His heart still belonged in the desert. He loved Bath Bombs. He had a dream to serve Veteran Families with a package of Bath Bombs to honor their service. Mom is following by taking up his cause: Dirks Dream Bath Bombs Co. Dirk suffered with Depression caused by Military Regulations. He was receiving counseling and medication, but to no avail. It wasn’t any source of help. Dirk was 22 years old. He left behind his mom, his step father, his 6 siblings and father. His radiant smile, dreams and love are so truly missed. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Please feel free to donate to Chris' charity to help fight and bring attention to ALD. Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/31078998

Episode 12: Movetoday365 with Russ Rogers 04/24/2024

Episode 12: Movetoday365 with Russ Rogers On this episode, we welcome the incredible Russ Rogers to the show! Russ is the author of a children's 5-book series, Today... He is also the founder of the movement called Movetoday365. He encourages everybody to get some movement in and get outside. As a part of Movetoday365, on the second Saturday of every month, friends and family gather together with Russ and go for a 2 mile walk . This is done in Santa Cruz, Ca, but can be done virtually as well. In addition to discussing the origins and process of Russ writing the , we talk about being active every day, and the importance of getting off devices and connecting in a real way. This episode's veteran is In Memory of PVT Daniel McCoy, US Army April 13, 1993 – July 10, 2022 Ft. Campbell, Kentucky “Daniel was unlike any human I’ve ever known. Smart, funny, loving, kind, and edgy! He was a sponge and soaked up information – he was smarter than most. He did life his way, and we respected that so much. He loved hanging with his friends and his dog, taking walks in nature, and being the best comedian and prankster! He enjoyed cooking for his dad. He was big into nature and loved learning. His drawing abilities were astonishing. Artistic, smart, and hilarious are characteristics that describe him so well. He loved his siblings very much. He was a blessing to those who got to know and love him. He lived in Pecatonica, IL and Wildwood, FL, and has treasured friends in both places.” Shared by his mother, Leilani. The states he called home were Florida and Illinois. ---------------------------------------------------------------- You can purchase Russ' books on You can also visit Russ on You can also find him on: Instagram () Email: Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: And the web site Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30971158

Episode 11: A Spectator's View of the 2024 Boston Marathon 04/18/2024

Episode 11: A Spectator's View of the 2024 Boston Marathon The 128th Boston Marathon took place on April 15, 2024. Your host, Paul Stroessner was in attendance for both the marathon and the expo, and this is his report. This week's 22 Too Many veteran is David Simpson “My Cousin David took his own life. A few nights ago, he became one of the 22 US veterans that commit suicide daily. I know it was not always this way but it is this way now. This happens 22 times a day-people feel like I do starting 22 times a day. He was either the first or the last of the day. He said goodbye on the last day of May in the last hour in his time zone. The outcry of support was overwhelming. People know. This happens too much. He knew it happened too much. David became medically disabled. He had PTSD and had also contracted Lyme disease during his many years in service. When he returned from service, work within his community and with his fellow veterans became his service. Many also remember him from the video below. He fought for the rights of those four legged soldiers. Now all the two legged ones need to stand up for him. Did this have to be? I don’t think so. To know how to help veterans overcome suicide, one only needs to know what a veteran who overcame suicide knew. Andrew Jones with The Ripple Effect – Helping Veterans and Families HEAL explained how he did just that. He found words in that dark place that kept him from taking his own life – familiar words “Hold your position.” Hold your position, call for support. That is what a soldier does when he is in trouble. David didn’t have these words in that dark place. All military personnel should be given these words upon their exit into civilian life. If David had orders in respect to his own life, he would have followed them. David, if I could have said anything to you on that last hour in May it would have been hold your position and call for support. And if I can say anything to the 22 that are starting to die today it is just that: HOLD YOUR POSITION. Why did you not have these words David Michael Simpson? I am so sorry. I cannot stop thinking them now. Hold your position. Call for support. There are so many people, so many mothers, so many fathers and brothers, wives, husbands…children who wish that their loved one had received this order. But instead these soldiers just come back and die on American soil from unseen injuries they received in battle. PTSD is not a permanent thought process and suicide is not a consistent thought. They need an order to follow when they think these thoughts. Let’s give it to them. I ask for your help. All of you. Every single one of you reading this. To the 22 veterans today who will face this darkness alone: Hold your position, call for support. You are an American life. It is the duty of the government and its military to protect you. If you are a threat to your own life, hold your position and call for support. But I cannot say “that is an order”. I am a civilian surrounded by civilians who are watching them all die. So this is just a Facebook post. They need an order to pull them back from the chaos. So give it to them. David, support was on its way. You just had to hold your position.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30878433

Episode 10: Sobriety and Run Streaks with Marathon Panda Maurice Lowman 04/10/2024

Episode 10: Sobriety and Run Streaks with Marathon Panda Maurice Lowman On this episode, we welcome the incredible and inspirational Maurice Lowman, also known as the Marathon Panda. Maurice had gone from hitting rock bottom on the streets of Rhode Island to living the life of High fives and positive vibes, being sober since March 12, 2015, and continuing an outdoor run streak since January 1, 2016! The 2024 Boston Marathon will be Maurice's 42nd marathon! He also runs half marathons and ultra marathons, and every other race you can think of! Maurice now lives an incredible life of positivity, gratitude, and hope. So come check out his story and be inspired! Maurice can be found on Instagram at You may also support Maurice's charity for the Marathon - This episode is also dedicated to the 22 Too Many veteran: James Balmonte January 17, 1998 – January 26, 2022 Load Master 21AS assigned to the 60th Air Mobility Wing, Travis AFB SSgt James L. Balmonte was an instructor loadmaster in the 21st Airlift Squadron assigned to the 60th Air Mobility Wing, Travis Air Force Base, California as of October 2017. James was active duty, and he was part of the direct support of Operation Freedom Sentinel and Inherent Resolve. James was a kind soul who would brighten the day of everyone he spoke to. He would use his comedic charm, cheerfulness, and great personality to make everyone feel welcomed. He had quick wit and a great sense of humor that made him a lot of friends and made people want to be around him. He was loyal to his job, his family, his friends, and his Beeliner family. He was the first person to stand up and help out wherever it was needed. He especially loved to talk about his culture, his life in Guam, and life outside the military. James enjoyed video games and hanging out with family and friends. He loved to travel around the world and try new things like snowboarding in Tahoe. He joined the military in order to make a difference in this world. It gave him something to focus on that he could be proud of and that would constantly challenge him. He was a dedicated person at heart and put everything he had into everything he did. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30769703

Episode 9: Reflecting on Resilience 04/04/2024

Episode 8: From Heart Attack to The Boston Marathon: The Inspiring Journey of Chris Marino 03/27/2024

Episode 8: From Heart Attack to The Boston Marathon: The Inspiring Journey of Chris Marino We welcome Chris Marino back to the show! Chris was on episodes and of Journey of the Rhode Runner when he ran his first Boston Marathon in 2021. Then on December 3, 2022, while out on a run, Chris survived a widowmaker heart attack (which has a 10-20% survival rate). Not only has Chris survived, but is thriving. On April 15, 2024, Chris will be running his first Boston Marathon since his heart attack! In addition to his heart attack, we discuss Chris' son Braden and his rare disease, Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), which prompted Chris to run the Boston Marathon to begin with. And if this was not enough to take in, 3 weeks before Chris' heart attack, his wife Katie suffered a seizure! In this epic-sode, we dive deep into each of these events. You will be truly inspired by this incredible Marino family! While many people would buckle under any of these events, the Marino family has not only survived, but are thriving! This episode is also dedicated to the 22 Too Many hero: Ellis Weems “Ellis was born in Landsthul, W. Germany on 21 June 1992 (the summer solstice). I was still in the military, and he was the joy of my life! He was raised in Harper Woods, Michigan. Ellis was my only child, and my mirror image who left this Earth far too soon. He loved life, and loved to put a smile on the faces of those who came in contact with him. He was active in soccer, baseball and an extreme skateboarder. He loved to eat – my goodness, my grocery bill stayed high when he was home! He was a free-spirit; always soaking up the information he received from others so that he can master it in his own life. I miss his smile and our conversations about life. I miss my Son every single day…15 July 2016 will be a constant reminder that the joy of my life is no longer here…” shared by his mom, Theresa In the spring of 2017, Theresa ran a 5k in memory of Ellis at Ft. Bragg, NC. are Please feel free to donate to Chris' charity to help fight and bring attention to ALD. Also mentioned in this episode is the mircle worker, Kate Decosta of , who helped Paul figure out a lifelong battle of mysterious headaches. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30568668

Episode 7: Inspiring Journey of SoulFriend Yoga with Adriana Ferns 03/20/2024

Episode 7: Inspiring Journey of SoulFriend Yoga with Adriana Ferns Adriana Ferns is not only a co-host of Inspiring Journeys, but also a partner in the female owned and run business, SoulFriend Yoga. SouldFriend has been an online business for the past 3+ years, selling well-sourced, safe materials for their yoga mats and clothes. Not only do they have great quality clothes, mats, and accessories, but they support great causes, such as At-Risk communities and animal shelters. They were recently going to open a physical store (the weekend of this recording). Unfortunately, it fell through at the last moment. In this episode, you will hear about the setbacks and wins of a young, start-up business. Entrepreneurs will be able to relate to this episode. And Adriana's attitude and mindset is very inspiring! So come along for the ride as great things will be happening! Also, pay attention. You may find out how to get a super discount code, and there is a giveaway contest! Also, today's 22 Too Many Veteran is: Deana Orellana Shared by her sister, Robin: “We lost Deana to a PTSD-related suicide on March 4, 2016. We didn’t even know about her diagnosis. My sister was one of the funniest and strongest women I ever knew. From a very young age, she always excelled at athletics. Her success in soccer came from her love of the game, hard work, and perseverance. Deana never failed at anything she put her mind to. She was a fun-loving and caring daughter, aunt, sister, and friend. She was an amazing scholar. She was an outstanding Marine and had recently found her calling to share her love of health and fitness with others. Deana was so brave. She served on one of the first Female Engagement Teams (FET) in OEF (Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan). She never shared what she saw and went through over there. She only said it forever changed her. Although Deana’s passing is tragic, my family is trying to raise PTSD and suicide awareness by sharing her story and keeping her memory alive.” Resting Place: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Monongahela, PA Deana home state is Pennsylvania and her last residence was North Carolina are --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30451653

Episode 6: Project Accounted For with Eddie Scali 03/13/2024

Episode 6: Project Accounted For with Eddie Scali We have another exciting episode this week as Kerri and Paul welcome Eddie Scali to the show. Eddie was a New York volunteer firefighter, then went on to an impactful 21 year career as an NYPD officer. These days, Eddie is a warrior for mental wellness for both first responders and the general population. He started a private law enforcement online community where people can lean on each other in times of need. This led him to the amazing Project Accounted For community, which is open to everybody. We talk to the charismatic Eddie about is experience as a volunteer firefighter at the time of the 9/11 terror attacks, his time in law enforcement, And we gain a whole new perspective of what first responders have to deal with several times a day, and how they cope with the pressure. Eddie truly is inspiring, and is making the world a better place by building some incredible communities. Also, we kick it a little old school, Rhode Runner style, as Eddie talks about signing up for the , which is taking place on May 5, 2024. He is doing this in support of the amazing organization, , which is a registered non-profit organization in New York State, dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health. Also, today's 22 Too Many Veteran is: Cody Hooks USAF 802nd Security Forces Squadron Lackland AFB from his mom: “My son, Cody, was loved by all who knew him; he never met a stranger. Cody always had a desire to serve in the military since he was little; he was involved all 4 years of High school in the ROTC program, where his Senior year made the highest rank as Captain. Upon graduating high school he joined the USAF and served from 2010-2013. Cody deployed to Kuwait in 2011. Cody loved spending time with family and friends. I will never understand why this happened but will forever keep his memory alive and try to help other families cope with the loss of a child. I have joined TAPS and they have helped me understand more about military suicides, I hope one day the number will be 0 and not 22+. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other mentions include , who's proceeds also go to . Eddie can be found in his Facebook group and also on Instagram () Inspiring Journeys can be found on: Instagram: Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/30351003

Episode 5: The Joy Hour with Tom Lyman 03/06/2024

Episode 4: Reclaiming Your Life with Jessica Rae 02/28/2024

Episode 3: Integrate With Kate DeCosta 02/21/2024

Episode 2: Be Genuine with Jenn Gray 02/14/2024

Episode 1: Defeating Anxiety with Misty Johnson 02/07/2024

Welcome to Inspiring Journeys 01/31/2024

Episode 100: Denny Krahe 01/24/2024

Episode 100: Denny Krahe We have arrived at the end of an era. This is the 100th and final episode of the Journey of the Rhode Runner podcast. We will be back next week as Inspirational Journeys. In the meantime, we have come full circle, as Paul welcomes Denny Krahe of Diz Runs Radio. Paul appeared on Episode 218 of this podcast in 2016 - 2 years before the Journey of the Rhode Runner podcast started. It is an honor to have Denny close out this era as we talk plenty of running. Not only is Denny a podcaster, but a running coach. We are also joined by Kerri Nelson, one of Denny's clients. Oh BTW, Kerri is now a permanent host of Inspiring Journeys! Join us in this epic episode! - Welcome Denny Krahe - - Welcome Kerri Nelson. Co-host of the upcoming Inspirational Journeys podcast - Questions for Coach - When are you going to do a Spartan race? Heartrate training question. - Disney Marathon talk - Denny's start in coaching - Denny's start in podcasting - Coaching success stories - Denny's 2024 goals 22 Too Many Brian Theobald Brian was a true proud American. He had served a month shy of nine years in the U.S. Air Force. He also has served two tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His ultimate dream and goal was to become a special agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. With Inspirations of his best friends and brothers, he accomplished his dream in 2014. During Brian’s life, he married his soul mate in 2010 and had a beautiful daughter later that year. His dedication and loyalty to his family was always top notch. TSgt Brian Theobald lost his battle with PTS on July 21, 2015. He was 27 years old. Also, check out the story of Sid Busch running his 200th marathon in honor of Brian: Denny can be found on Instagram () Facebook - X (Formerly known as Twitter) - The Diz Runs Radio podcast can be found on: And anywhere else you find your podcasts. Kerri can be found on Instagram: Facebook: You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: You can also download and subscribe to the Journey of the Rhode Runner Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/29625978

Episode 99: 24 for '24 01/18/2024

Episode 98: Adriana's Final Rhode Runner Episode. Coming Soon...Inspiring Journeys 01/11/2024

Episode 97: One-Word Themes of 2024 12/19/2023

Episode 96: Kerri Nelson and the 2023 New York City Marathon 12/10/2023

ReRun - Episode 79: Kate Champion – Never Too Late and You Are Limitless 11/24/2023

Episode 95: Walk, Don't Run; Gym Fright; Eating and Thanksgiving Tips 11/14/2023

ReRun: Episode 81: Crystal Bui – More to Tell 11/05/2023

ReRun: Episode 81: Crystal Bui – More to Tell Welcome to our first Journey of the Rhode Runner RERUN. I have some exciting news. The Journey of the Rhode Runner podcast will now be available on ! Our first episode will be a classic - Episode 81 with Crystal Bui, which was originally posted in audio form on April 17, 2023. There may be some listeners who may not have caught that one yet. So, you can listen to the audio version here, or go to and watch the . And don't forget to subscribe, and if you subscribe on , hit the bell so you'll be notified when a new video drops. Thank you all so much for listening and watching. Now on with the show. Crystal Bui, who Rhode Islanders may remember as a report from Channel 10 News, joins us for a powerful episode. Crystal was a reporter in Minneapolis, Minnesota, covering the George Floyd murder and the civil unrest that followed. Crystal has just released a memoir, More to Tell. She tells the story of George Floyd’s murder, as well as facing sexism and racism while covering the story. In this episode, we talk about Crystal’s experience in a toxic work environment, the George Floyd murder, and literally getting caught in the crossfire between police and protestors. We also talk about racism, and sexual harassment. Although we get into some deep, difficult topics, we also manage to have a lot of fun and laughs. And of course we talk about Crystal’s amazing book. You can purchase More to Tell at And you can use the checkout code RUNNER for special listener’s discount You can contact Crystal and/or get her book at You can also follow her on Instagram at Also, you can check out her incredible web site You can find Adriana at: Instagram email: YouTube: – Use the code SOUL20 for 20% off You can find The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: Instagram: Email if you have any cquestions, comments, show or guest suggestions: You can also download and subscribe to the Journey of the Rhode Runner Podcast at: /episode/index/show/rhoderunner/id/28515923

Episode 94: Book Launch and Gym Fright 10/28/2023

Episode 93: Limitless Healing and Wellness with Colette Brown 10/19/2023

Inspiring Journeys

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