Overcomers Overcoming
Learn how others are overcoming or have overcome a variety of life happenings. Everyone has a story that someone needs to hear. Let those stories inspire you to, 1) know you are not alone in whatever life topic you are experiencing, 2) know there are multiple solutions all of life dilemmas, and, 3) learn about critical thinking skills to make informed life decisions.
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Andrea Leeb Episode 1 – Your Past Inspires You Without Defining You
11/12/2025
Andrea Leeb Episode 1 – Your Past Inspires You Without Defining You
Andrea Leeb’s life story will inspire others who have faced trauma early on. She shares her journey in her upcoming book Such a Pretty Picture, scheduled for release in October 2025. It serves as a masterclass in personal resilience and radical reinvention. At just four years old, Andrea experienced sexual abuse by her father. When her mother walked in and saw this, she had a dissociative breakdown and went temporarily blind. That pivotal moment, when her childhood was forever changed, was buried under decades of silence, shame, and a longing for love that never came. Andrea spent many years building a successful legal career while also becoming a registered nurse and yoga teacher. She achieved this by refusing to let her past define her future. Her transformation from survivor to self-healer is remarkable, yet what makes her truly compelling is how she talks about it: with tenderness, clarity, and the hard-earned wisdom only gained through doing the work. She offers valuable insights into overcoming trauma, perfectionism, and self-blame. She is not a victim but a force, ready to share the truths that led her back to herself. Learn more about Andrea at https://andrealeebauthor.com/.
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Ray Martin Episode 1 – My Redefined Life Purpose
11/05/2025
Ray Martin Episode 1 – My Redefined Life Purpose
Ray Martin left the corporate world in 2005 to take what he planned as a six-month sabbatical backpacking through Asia. A series of unexpected, unforeseen events transformed that trip into something very different from what he had imagined. Shattered by divorce and the loss of his father, Ray relinquished his role as a successful business leader to embark on a journey of reinvention, taking a six-month sabbatical. However, life had a different plan. His nomadic adventure unexpectedly turned into a fourteen-year trip living out of his backpack. That period became a time of personal reinvention. He chronicled his story in "Life Without A Tie." During this reflective period, he became a mindful coach. Through this work, he now facilitates a program for the Asian Leadership Institute with executives worldwide. Ray coaches leaders on how to find their own path, rather than following others’ expectations. His story includes the six rules for happiness that define him and can help others facing struggles: 1. Build a solid foundation 2. Fully Own Everything that Happens 3. Become your observer 4. Create powerful, purposeful, and sustainable relationships 5. Pay attention to your health (spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional) 6. Empower and support others. You can learn more about Ray Martin at https://lifewithoutatie.com/.
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Nicole Richards Episode 1 – A New Chapter of Life
10/29/2025
Nicole Richards Episode 1 – A New Chapter of Life
Nicole Richards made a life transition from being a makeup artist to becoming a life performance coach. What/who do you need to make a life transition? Nicole would respond, at least in part, to build your team. Get support when embarking on new journeys. What do you need to feel supported? Nicole works with a therapist, ADD coach, and business coach and is looking for a personal trainer. Having this team stops her from using friends as therapists. She gets unbiased advice, and her goal with a trainer is to challenge her body differently. So, how can you reinvent yourself with confidence? What hurdles have to be overcome to take life in a new direction? How do you overcome those challenges? How do you ignore the naysayers? How do you push through paralyzing fear? Nicole responds to these and other considerations in this podcast. You can learn more about Nicole at and
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Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode 2 – “Neurospicy” People and Employment
10/22/2025
Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode 2 – “Neurospicy” People and Employment
Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and proud ringleader of a “neurospicy” family. Her life is a mix of late-night epiphanies, juggling mental health myths, and a daily dose of laughter as she navigates autism, ADHD, and parenting kids who keep her on her toes (and sometimes hiding snacks). Here’s the deal: growing up, she always felt like she was dancing to her beat, but nobody gave me the playlist. It wasn’t until adulthood that she realized she was neurodivergent, and suddenly, her quirks and challenges made sense. That “ah-ha” moment didn’t just change her life—it gave her a mission to help others embrace their differences and thrive. Now, she blends humor, personal stories, and practical advice to tackle big topics like: 1) Why neurodivergent brains are the secret weapon every workplace needs. 2) How to turn “chaotic energy” into a leadership superpower. And, 3) Why mental health isn’t all doom and gloom (yes, we can laugh about it sometimes!). When she’s not counseling clients or speaking on neurodiversity and DEIB, you’ll find her debating the merits of pineapple on pizza, struggling to perfect her meme game, or plotting her next adventure with her husband and kids. She keeps it real, relatable, and a little ridiculous—because who says growth can’t be fun? Her style is conversational and insightful, empowering, and sprinkled with humor. Together, we can make brains, belonging, and breakthroughs the most entertaining part of your home, workplace, and/or show! You can learn more about Dr. Kristen Williamson at and .
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Douglas and Jennifer Dawn Robbins Episode 3 – Our Nine-Hour First Date
10/15/2025
Douglas and Jennifer Dawn Robbins Episode 3 – Our Nine-Hour First Date
Douglas and Jennifer Dawn Robbins discuss their respective life encounters and how they have grown together. Their first date was a nine-hour telephone call. They each experienced different life traumas that grew into a common bond of commitment. Jennifer Dawn was recovering from a challenging divorce and, at the time, had little interest in dating another man. The adage of “sticks and stones might break my bones, but words can never hurt” has proven false. Many lives are adversely affected because of words said to or about us, and those words can sometimes be a significant setback. Resilience is the ability to continue to get up when we are down. Douglas deftly uses the example of a young infant who gets upright after falling. They are too young to know they cannot get up. Unlike people with life experience, we are sometimes told we cannot do something. Resilience is the ability not to accept that. Jennifer Dawn is advancing her life through her life coaching business. As of this recording, they are enjoying life in their 13th year of marriage.
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Paul Doughty - From Abandonment to Awakening: My Story of Resilience
10/08/2025
Paul Doughty - From Abandonment to Awakening: My Story of Resilience
Paul Doughty’s journey exemplifies resilience and transformation. Paul's true story of growing up in an abusive home and then being left unsupervised through his teenage years is now being developed into a TV series. His life's journey has been marked by formidable challenges that have profoundly shaped his character and outlook. From a young age, Paul wrestled with circumstances that steered him down a path of despair. However, with unwavering determination and an intrinsic belief in the power of resilience, he has turned his tale of adversity into one of triumph. The metamorphosis Paul underwent is not solely his own doing. It was through the empathetic guidance of a mentor, the transformative process of therapy, which led to a profound spiritual awakening, and the strength culled from various passions to re-author his life's narrative. As he shares his experiences with audiences, he catalyzes a similar awakening within them, inspiring them to see that with support, inner resolve, and courage, anyone can overcome their trials and emerge stronger. His story is a testament to the unfaltering human spirit in the face of hardship. Today, he is dedicated to educating others on the importance of taking action, empowering teenagers to embrace their journey of self-discovery and resilience. By sharing his personal story nationwide, Paul inspires students and various groups to take action, paving the way for a brighter future for all.
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Clay Belgie – Working with Those on the Autism Spectrum
10/01/2025
Clay Belgie – Working with Those on the Autism Spectrum
Clay Belgie is President of the Lower Shore Autism Community, a 501 (c) (3) organization. The Lower Shore Autism Community Solicits everyone’s support in creating a new map and plan for people with Autism, one that helps Lower Shore families fund professional help and the social support they need for their whole lives. Their mission and values include dedicating themselves to and advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, connecting them with resources and information, and building a community of mutual support. The organization envisions a world where individuals with Autism are respected for who they are and are supported in their quest to live whole lives. You can learn more about Clay Belgie and the Lower Shore Autism Community at .
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Rebeccah Silence – Healing High-functioning Unhappiness
09/24/2025
Rebeccah Silence – Healing High-functioning Unhappiness
Rebeccah Silence works with leaders to heal high-functioning unhappiness to make the most impact on humanity. Emotional wellness supports leadership, impact, business, and better communication and messaging. Rebeccah knows that the happier you are at home and the more emotionally well you are, the more the world gets the best of you and the difference you were born to make. Rebeccah shares actionable steps to heal family trauma. At the heart of her approach, which you can see at , is a simple truth: healing is freedom. It's the key to breaking free from the past, empowering ourselves, and fostering more love, more joy, and more fun for families across the globe. She speaks to the soul of those hurting to reshape individual lives and create the dream of what their family can be. She does this through strategies, stories, and a vision for a world where homes are the foundation of healing and happiness.
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Michelle Choairy – My Complex Kid
09/10/2025
Michelle Choairy – My Complex Kid
Michelle Choairy is the mother to her “complex kid.” Since his birth, she navigated her way around developmental delays such as autism, ADHD, and special education services, along with other life happenings. Michelle devoted nearly 10 years to searching for a way to help her son through his developmental issues. He is now diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called TBR1, which only 170 kids worldwide are known to have. TBR1, or T-box brain transcription factor 1, is a crucial protein in brain development, particularly in the cortex and olfactory bulb. It acts as a transcription factor, meaning it regulates the expression of other genes by binding to DNA. TBR1 plays a vital role in neuronal migration, axonal projection, and establishing laminar and areal identity within the brain. Mutations in the TBR1 gene have been linked to neuro-developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability. Michelle speaks of her journey through this process and how she can help other moms on a learning journey to gain clarity to advance children and save time by reducing the need to visit doctors and therapists. Michelle is her son’s best advocate. She has learned through the years what is required to get the best care for her son. She founded Collective Wisdom for Complex Kids, a support group for mothers with children with disabilities. She is passionate about working with families to help them re-evaluate and prioritize their dynamics, along with guiding them from confusion to clarity while raising complex children.
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Casey Kang Head – My Cancer Survival Story
09/03/2025
Casey Kang Head – My Cancer Survival Story
Casey Head was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 31 years old on Friday, February 14th, while sitting in the ER. She had no energy, nodes were on her neck, blood was coming out of her nose just from blowing her nose, and she experienced bruising everywhere. She was admitted to the hospital, where she stayed for the next 28 days. She felt her life as she had known it was over. Her treatment protocol lasted almost 2 years, with an aggressive regimen of chemotherapy, which had her going back to the hospital for infusions 3 or 4 times weekly. Cancer became her world. Four months into the treatment, she had an allergic reaction to chemotherapy, causing seizures and a stroke, which left her temporarily paralyzed on her left side. She entered a rehabilitation hospital where she learned to walk, talk, and eat. This required eight consecutive weeks, five days a week, three hours daily of rehab to regain as much function as she could while continuing chemotherapy. Desperate for normalcy in her life, she returned to work too soon. Her cancer was not in remission. The medical staff notified her that her body was no longer responding to chemotherapy. At this point, her only options were a clinical trial or immunotherapy. She decided with her husband to try immunotherapy first since it was the least aggressive of the two. She was sent home with a fanny pack for a 24-hour, 3-day infusion pump. After 68 days, she was allowed to go home. After nearly 2.5 years, her cancer was diagnosed to be in remission. During this time, she took a deep dive into researching, talking to experts, reading every self-help book she could, went on a healing retreat she couldn’t afford, doubled down on therapy, and kept searching. As a result of her discoveries and recovery, she has taken on the mission to help others overcome her struggles. Casey wants everyone to know that cancer can be overcome. She is passionate about sharing her signature program, 12 Weeks to A Happier, Healthier You… which is a step-by-step program to start thriving after treatment instead of surviving each day. The program will empower anyone to be stronger mentally, physically, and emotionally, to regain control of their life. You can learn more about Casey at https://www.docancer.org/stories-of-hope/casey-kang-head.
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Yousef Benhamida - Pain, Chaos, and the Comeback: Turning Rock Bottom Into the Launchpad for a New Life
08/27/2025
Yousef Benhamida - Pain, Chaos, and the Comeback: Turning Rock Bottom Into the Launchpad for a New Life
Yousef Benhamida is CEO, Humboldts Secret Supplies. He is a self-made entrepreneur and a powerful voice for personal reinvention. He built a multimillion-dollar business from his one-bedroom apartment with no investors, no degree, and no safety net. Yousef shares the pivotal moment when everything collapsed—and how it forced him to rewire his mindset, rebuild his confidence, and return to life with a renewed sense of purpose. His true transformation came from losing everything: emotionally, financially, and physically. It was in that chaos —heartbreak, burnout, and complete exhaustion — that he rebuilt his business and himself. He’s lived what some are walking through. He went from financial collapse to deep emotional pain. His story is one to inspire others to know there is strength on the other side of struggle. It is a matter of resilience. He blends business and emotional recovery. While he’s a successful CEO, Yousef doesn’t shy away from the deeper conversations about self-worth, burnout, and learning to lead from within. He offers practical takeaways. Whether it’s creating structure after chaos, reclaiming discipline, or finding clarity after confusion, Yousef provides tools—not just inspiration. He’s real, relatable, and ready. With a media-friendly, no-BS style, Yousef connects with listeners through grounded honesty and unfiltered truth. Yousef helps others—especially men—reclaim discipline, identity, and strength after hitting their version of rock bottom. His approach is practical, gritty, and deeply human, speaking to anyone who’s ever felt like they’ve lost their way and need a roadmap back to themselves. You can learn more about him through his book One Mill Dollar, Hot Girls, and a Ferrari and at https://yousefbenhamida.com/.
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Diana Flowe – The Empowered Life of Today
08/13/2025
Diana Flowe – The Empowered Life of Today
Diana Flowe is on a mission to work with those working toward sobriety and/or through their addiction as a catalyst to inspire others to build an empowered life, filled with joy, purpose, and freedom. When she was young, Diana lacked self-esteem, had no direction, and hung out with the wrong crowd. At age 13, she was a heavy drug user and addict. She married when she was 15 and dropped out of high school. She made multiple suicide attempts, found herself homeless, and even lived in the woods at one point. By age 27, with a newborn baby, two young children, and a failing marriage, she was desperate for change. She promised herself to do everything in her power to get clean and sober, to change, and never return to that life! She returned to school, earned a leadership and nursing degree, and became a highly awarded Director of Nursing. Despite all the odds stacked against her, she went from high school dropout and addict to Director of Nursing, living a clean, productive, sober, and joyous life for the past 29 years. You can learn more about Diana Flowe at and
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Janet Sherlund – Abandoned at Birth
07/02/2025
Janet Sherlund – Abandoned at Birth
Janet Sherlund chronicles her life as an adopted child. Being adopted made her feel as though she was living a “borrowed life,” undermined her sense of trust and personal value, and impacted every decision she made. It also led to a lifelong quest to find her biological mother, with the hope of finally feeling a tether to this world, a sense of belonging, and ultimately, herself. Adoption is often painted as a happy, inspirational act - a baby finds a family and lives happily ever after. But the truth is that adopted children experience displacement and rupture from their mothers, which can affect them for lifetimes and can result in depression, behavioral issues, anger, anxiety, PTSD, higher suicide rates, and more. Adoption is a trauma and a lifelong journey that is often overlooked and not honestly talked about. She raised her family and served on nonprofit boards in education, health, and the cultural arts before writing her memoir Abandoned at Birth. Her single most significant life event was being given up for adoption at birth. Her memoir fulfills a lifelong dream of becoming a published author, as well as raising awareness about loss and grief in adoption, and why it takes more than love to survive that trauma. A graduate of Colgate University, Janet lives on Nantucket Island off the Massachusetts coast with Rick, her husband of 45 years. You can learn more about Janet at and .
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Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode 1 – “Neurospicy” People
06/25/2025
Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode 1 – “Neurospicy” People
Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and proud ringleader of a “neurospicy” family. Her life is a mix of late-night epiphanies, juggling mental health myths, and a daily dose of laughter as she navigates autism, ADHD, and parenting kids who keep her on her toes (and sometimes hiding snacks). Here’s the deal: growing up, she always felt like she was dancing to her beat, but nobody gave me the playlist. It wasn’t until adulthood that she realized she was neurodivergent, and suddenly, her quirks and challenges made sense. That “ah-ha” moment didn’t just change her life—it gave her a mission to help others embrace their differences and thrive. Now, she blends humor, personal stories, and practical advice to tackle big topics like: 1) Why neurodivergent brains are the secret weapon every workplace needs. 2) How to turn “chaotic energy” into a leadership superpower. And, 3) Why mental health isn’t all doom and gloom (yes, we can laugh about it sometimes!). When she’s not counseling clients or speaking on neurodiversity and DEIB, you’ll find her debating the merits of pineapple on pizza, struggling to perfect her meme game, or plotting her next adventure with her husband and kids. She keeps it real, relatable, and a little ridiculous—because who says growth can’t be fun? Her style is conversational and insightful, empowering, and sprinkled with humor. Together, we can make brains, belonging, and breakthroughs the most entertaining part of your home, workplace, and/or show! You can learn more about Dr. Kristen Williamson at and .
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Mike Burnop – Be Prepared
06/18/2025
Mike Burnop – Be Prepared
Mike Burnop is Virginia Tech’s Hall of Fame network analyst and the two-time Virginia Sportscaster of the Year (2019, 2023). He attended Roanoke Catholic High School, where he is a Hall of Fame inductee. Mike was inducted into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame in 2000. Mike enters his 42nd season in the Hokies’ football booth. In addition to his role as an analyst, Mike handles all postgame interviews from Virginia Tech’s locker room. Mike was a star tight end at Virginia Tech during his playing days. He held the Hokies’ single-season tight end records for receptions (46) and receiving yards until both feats were ultimately surpassed by Bucky Hodges (2013-16). Mike’s versatility at the microphone is nearly unparalleled in collegiate athletics, as he also serves as the analyst for Virginia Tech men’s basketball broadcasts. He is one of only a few nationwide announcers who analyze both sports. Away from his broadcasting duties, Mike owns New River Office Supply, a Virginia business operating in Blacksburg, Pearisburg, and Salem. He is a prominent member of the Blacksburg community, frequently lending his time, voice, and talents to philanthropic causes. You can learn more about Mike Burnop at and .
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Jo Whipp – Overcoming Emotional Trauma
06/11/2025
Jo Whipp – Overcoming Emotional Trauma
Jo Whipp is freer now than she has been in her past. She is still healing, grasping what she thought her life was supposed to look like while pretending it’s something it isn’t. She committed to stopping living in the past and starting to create her future. Life, the journey, is a forever-growing, forever learning, forever-unfolding experience. She thinks the analogy of the butterfly works so well. Some struggle to overcome more than others. There were moments when she longed for the ultimate freedom. Freedom to be in the arms of Jesus and be finished with the pain of life on earth. However, she learned she was meant to complete a mission on earth. She now feels her sense of calling. Through her past, she has learned she can not only fulfil her calling but also do it in strength and with her God-given right to boundaries. Jo is documenting her life experiential learning in her upcoming book, Crave a Greater Impact. The publishing date has not yet been determined as of this writing. You can learn more about Jo Whipp at .
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Austin Davis: Teenage Behavioral Health
06/04/2025
Austin Davis: Teenage Behavioral Health
Austin Davis is a visionary leader in teenage behavioral health and addiction treatment. He has spent the past 15+ years committed to transforming the lives of teens and their families. He uses the power of faith in the recovery process to help his clients grow into healthy and happy members of their community. His dedication to teen mental health makes him a driving thought leader in the industry. He has spoken to parents, community health professionals, educators, and teens nationwide—sharing insights on effective treatment methodologies, the importance of mental health awareness, and the power of faith in the recovery process. Austin earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in Cleveland, TN. He furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Church of God Theological Seminary. This education laid the foundation for his professional journey in clinical counseling and church ministry. His book My Kid, My Crisis dives into the inspiring journeys of families who have faced mental health challenges and substance abuse issues with their teens. He is the founder and CEO of Clearfork Academy. You can learn more about Austin at and .
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Jacques Delorme Episode 2 – Overcoming PTSD
05/28/2025
Jacques Delorme Episode 2 – Overcoming PTSD
Jacques Delorme is a farm kid raised in rural Saskatchewan and currently residing in Regina with his two children. He completed a Bachelor of Education degree in Chemistry, physical education, and general science in 1990 and became a master teacher and coached volleyball, curling, badminton, softball, and track and field. He is a science educator who dedicated the past 10 years of his life to personal development including training as a Shaman. With a deep interest in helping others through writing and public speaking, Jacques is developing an online support program for those recovering from trauma using the concepts taught in his book, Driving Out of Darkness: Self-Care Strategies for Trauma Recovery. You can learn more about Jacques at https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerfulimpact/?originalSubdomain=ca.
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Joan Quinlan Episode 3 – Overcoming Substance Use Disorder
05/21/2025
Joan Quinlan Episode 3 – Overcoming Substance Use Disorder
Joan Quinlan has overcome multiple life traumas brought about by her early lifestyle. Her family culture was one of working beyond any life adversities rather than finding anyone who could empathize with her. That culture caused her to repress many of her early life anxieties, which led her to excessive alcohol consumption. The term for this was formerly alcoholic. The accepted term now is substance use disorder (SUD). She explains she still has moments that can activate (the term more accepted than “triggered”) past recollections of behavior. Because she has primarily overcome these previous traumas, she is helping others overcome their traumatic behaviors. You can learn more about Joan and her work at https://womenforsobriety.org/.
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Harris B. Cooper – Workplace Culture
05/20/2025
Harris B. Cooper – Workplace Culture
Harris Cooper, formerly GS-15, discusses his approach to organizational culture, drawing from his 39-year government career. He emphasizes the importance of the Golden Rule and the Serenity Prayer in his management style, along with two simple rules: do your job and keep the boss out of trouble. Harris also shares his experience leading a diverse workforce across multiple naval and marine air stations, where he was responsible for aircraft repair capabilities. He discusses the challenges of managing geographically dispersed teams and implementing consistent procedures across different locations. Harris shared his experience creating a culture within his organization, which is equivalent in size to a Fortune 500 company. He also mentioned his support for PMA 274, which works on standing up repair capability at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
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Mike Chapman – The Impact of Sexual Abuse
05/14/2025
Mike Chapman – The Impact of Sexual Abuse
Mike Chapman is a Certified Recovery Life Coach and Brainspotting Provider with Polar Life Consulting and Husband Material. This is an outgrowth of his early life of having survived child sexual abuse and human trafficking, and he is listed with the Speakers Bureau within Survivor Network NC (North Carolina) as a Lived Experience Expert. He also hosts an award-winning podcast where he interviews male childhood sexual abuse and trafficking survivors and their caretakers. You can learn more about Mike and his ministry outreach at and . His email address is .
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Jyoti Dhanota – Dealing with My Anxieties
05/07/2025
Jyoti Dhanota – Dealing with My Anxieties
Jyoti Dhanota is also known by her preferred professional pseudonym "Geet." She is a prolific self-published author with an extensive literary portfolio comprising 11 captivating books. Specializing in the genre of fictional romance, Geet fearlessly tackles taboo subjects prevalent in South Asian communities, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and diverse literary landscape. Her dedication extends beyond storytelling, as she actively seeks to address the underrepresentation of Punjabi culture within literature, fostering a more authentic and representative narrative. For those interested in further engaging with Geet's work and insights, she maintains a strong presence on prominent social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok under the handle . Additionally, comprehensive information about her background, publications, and upcoming projects can be found on her professional profile hosted at .
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John Brink Episode 2: Attitude – Passion – Work Ethic
04/30/2025
John Brink Episode 2: Attitude – Passion – Work Ethic
John A. Brink was born in 1940 in Nazi-occupied Holland during WWII. From the time he could walk, his days often consisted of foraging for food with his brother and sister during harsh warlike conditions, surrounded by death and hardship, especially during the hungry winter of 1944/45. John’s mother was left to raise her three kids alone when their father was drafted into the Dutch Army. They wouldn’t know if he was dead or alive until the liberation of their village by Canadian soldiers on April 12, 1945. This was when John determined he would one day move to Canada - the land of his heroes. He was only five years old when this decision was rendered. Like many others who lived through that time, John has lived his entire life with the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from being in a warzone. After serving in the Dutch Air Force for two years, John subsequently emigrated to Canada in July 1965, arriving in Prince George with $25.47 in his pocket. John’s other lifelong dream of owning a sawmill came to fruition ten years later in 1975 with the creation of Brink Forest Products, which has since become North America’s leading secondary manufacturer of value-added wood products. At 83 years of age (as of this writing), John continues to succeed as President and CEO of the Brink Group of Companies and 10+ other companies. John authored three books and hosted the ON THE BRINK Podcast series. He is also a fierce advocate for erasing the stigma surrounding ADHD, something John has lived with his entire life. In his spare time, John enjoys riding dressage, body-building, philanthropy, writing, public speaking, and spending time with his family, wife, and animals. In recognition of John’s lifelong achievements, the University of Northern British Columbia awarded him an honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree. Less than a month later, he also received the Order of B.C. in June 2019, the highest achievement a civilian in BC, Canada, can achieve. John committed to a 1-million-dollar donation to the College of New Caledonia to help support the Trades And Technology Centre. John’s vision with this donation is to create a Centre of Excellence for Northern British Columbia to enhance Northern workforces, economies, and population growth. He authored “ADHD Unlocked,” “Finding Your Passion – Living The Dream, and “Against All Odds,” which are available wherever books are sold.
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Kirtti Sharrma – Escaping an Abusive Marriage
04/23/2025
Kirtti Sharrma – Escaping an Abusive Marriage
Kirtti Sharma shares her journey of overcoming an abusive marriage, highlighting the emotional and physical struggles she endured, including societal pressures that stifled her individuality. As a child, she would pray daily to escape her father's violent behavior. After recognizing the toxic dynamics of her relationship, she, with her mother’s help, escaped the clutches of her abusive husband. It took years to break free from the cycle of abuse. With her mother’s courage and determination, she divorced her husband for her children’s sake. As Kirtti reflects on her life, her abusive marriage was an outgrowth of her relationship with her abusive father. We can become assimilated with those with whom we strongly disagree. Her father was a person with alcoholism who came home daily to terrorize his family. Despite her past, she acknowledges she is stronger and more prosperous, having endured the experience. My father's death took me on a spiritual path, which helped me to focus on my soul's journey and walk on a spiritual path. She encourages everyone not to be ashamed to discuss domestic violence. You can learn more about Kirtti at , , , and
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Sarah Rose – Overcoming Burnout
01/30/2025
Sarah Rose – Overcoming Burnout
Sarah describes having reached her “quarter-life” crisis. She began to see how strategic anyone can be with your career path. It was a revelation that she could design her path to meet an ideal employer’s needs and job requirements. Fast forward a few years, and she was filling the role she had previously scouted and loved! Soon enough, she made six figures and kept looking for growth opportunities within her organization despite having two young children. However, several years later, she felt like she was stuck. She then noticed how many mid-career women felt the same without the income or fulfillment she had experienced. She knew how to start to pivot again, but most women don’t feel like they have many options when they are in their mid-career. Would she have good coworkers? Would her boss be less flexible? Will her age be a factor? Having kids to clothe, active lives to lead, and mortgages to pay, leaving a good job, or finding new paths starts to feel less likely. For some, the imposter syndrome gets activated! She spent her career helping over 15,000 people create academic and career plans, spent 10s thousands of dollars and SO MANY HOURS in virtual and in-person training, becoming a Certified Coach through Co-Active Training Institute and Gallup Strengths, training in Positive Intelligence, Career Development, with top Business and Leadership coaches all after having earned her Master’s degree as a Professional Counselor. She created Fresh Rise Coaching and our two Signature programs: The Burnout Tournament and, coming soon, The Rise + ENERGIZE Course. You can learn more about Sarah at and
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Dr. Matthew Zakreski Episode 4 – Neurodivergent People and Divorce/Separation
01/28/2025
Dr. Matthew Zakreski Episode 4 – Neurodivergent People and Divorce/Separation
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD, is a high-energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken over 400 times worldwide about supporting neurodivergent people. Dr. Zakreski graduated from Widener University’s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology (IGCP) in 2016. He co-founded The Neurodiversity Collective, which provides therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting. You bring your brain with you wherever you go, whether you're a student in school, a professional adult, or someone trying to determine your way in the world. But rarely do we get enough information to understand and process what our brains do for us and how they manifest in the world. Dr. Matt is one of the world's foremost experts in neurodivergence for people with different brains (think ADHD, Giftedness, Dyslexia, Autism, etc.) and how to meet their needs socially, professionally, and emotionally. He combines neuropsychology, clinical practice, and meaningful exercises to make educational, inspirational, and entertaining content. The Neurodiversity Collective (NDC) has been a long-time dream of this "grown-up gifted kid." Under Dr. Matt's leadership, NDC stands out as a group of informed, compassionate, and skilled specialists prepared to serve unique needs. There is a neurodiversity employment network headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. You can reach them at . Auticon is an IT consulting business and social enterprise that exclusively employs adults on the autism spectrum in permanent roles as IT consultants. They are at . Aspiritech focuses on neurodiverse teamwork. Aspiritech’s donors allow that nonprofit to provide the essential support and programs that make us a leading provider of meaningful employment for autistic adults. If you can, please support our mission today. You can learn more about Dr. Matt at https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/ and https://ghfdialogue.org/author/drmatt/.
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Bambi Lynn Makowski story- Healing Through Life Stories
01/23/2025
Bambi Lynn Makowski story- Healing Through Life Stories
Bambi needed thirty-two years to accept her given name. She can now say it with pride. She is a mother of six adult children and thirteen and counting grandchildren. Bambi has never stopped since her 7th-grade teacher told her she had a gift to write. She has published two books, with a third projected for 2025. Her passion is for people, sitting around a table and listening to their stories, and hoping hers gives others hope that storms don't last and we will always get to the other side. She worked in industries that allowed her to speak to many people and hear many stories. She hopes to change lives one life and door at a time. Bambi believes that purpose is everything. When you find it, run with it and make a difference for the kingdom; continue the journey together. You can learn more about Bambi at www.healingthroughstories.com.
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Andrew Matthews – Follow Your Heart
01/21/2025
Andrew Matthews – Follow Your Heart
Andrew Matthews is an Australian author and international speaker born in Victor Harbor, South Australia. His books, including BEING HAPPY!, FOLLOW YOUR HEART, and BOUNCING BACK!, sold over eight million copies in 48 languages. Andrew has presented to over 1,000 corporations on five continents on the topics of attitude, enjoying work, and resilience. He also speaks in universities and prisons. He is known for his numerous books. He became a full-time writer in 1988, and since then, he has written and illustrated 11 books. His book, Being Happy!, was written and published in 1988. It has sold three million copies and has been published in 42 languages. He acknowledges he never planned to be an author. He just had some messages he wanted to share - based mainly on his mistakes! His down-to-earth books - illustrated with his cartoons - have gone global. "Being Happy!" and "Follow Your Heart" have become self-help classics, selling in 70 countries. Readers acknowledge that Andrew’s books are easy to read, relate to, apply - and funny! "We don't always need new information - sometimes we just need to be reminded!" says Andrew. He speaks to conferences worldwide and draws his trademark cartoons throughout his presentations. Andrew Matthews lives with his wife and publisher, Julie. You can learn more about Andrew Matthews at and .
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Logan Hufford - My Victory Over Sexual Addiction
01/16/2025
Logan Hufford - My Victory Over Sexual Addiction
Logan Hufford was born and raised in Alaska. He married Carrie, who herself is a 4th-generation Alaskan. Together, they are raising four amazing but crazy little monkeys. Their life is simple - they love their family time, their dogs, and exploring the beautiful Alaskan wilderness. And yet, none of this would have been possible today if he had continued with his past. For years, Logan did just about everything in his power to destroy his marriage and his life. He was a raging sex addict who engaged in pornography, affairs, and hiring prostitutes. More had become a way of life for Logan. He thought he had no hope. In 2016, God began to change all that. Through Recovery, God transformed Logan’s life and his marriage. Logan and Carrie each now lead Recovery groups, doing what they can to give back by sharing the gifts that God has given. Logan’s life mission and purpose is now to share with others how that happened. Because it wasn’t easy, it wasn’t quick, and Logan didn’t do it alone. You can learn more about Logan Hufford at and .
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Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt Episode 2 - Adapting to Talented Neurodiverse People
12/31/2024
Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt Episode 2 - Adapting to Talented Neurodiverse People
Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate researching online education and writing instruction for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Dr. Scott consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organizations on issues of autism, neurodiversity, and active inclusion. Parenting Neurodiverse children — those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing issues, and learning disabilities — presents challenges. As a diagnosed autistic person with ADHD and physical disabilities, Dr. Scott brings his experiences as a parent, researcher, educator, and Neurodiversity self-advocacy to an audience. He and his wife chose to be parents, fostering and then adopting two daughters. Audiences ask why an autistic person would want to be a father. Dr. Scott’s experiences and academic credentials empower him to advocate for their daughters in a school system that too often fails to provide reasonable support. Even well-intentioned parents, teachers, and researchers don't always understand what Neurodiverse minds and bodies experience. As a speaker with more than 150 regional and national appearances and 15 years of consulting experience, Dr. Scott discusses autism, parenting, and education from the autistic perspective. The Autistic Me blog was launched in January 2007 when he began working for others with special needs. He completed his doctoral studies in 2010 at the University of Minnesota. While a doctoral student, he conducted two grant-funded research projects on autism and instructional technology. He publishes in academic journals, co-edited a scholarly collection, and has presented numerous conference papers. Reflecting his passion for digital media, he completed a Master of Fine Arts in film and digital technology, a Master of Arts in English composition theory and rhetoric, and undergraduate degrees in English and journalism. You can learn more about Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt at https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/about/, https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/english/profile/christopher-wyatt/, and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EvdCzSe8zU.
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