Without Regret the Podcast

Resources: http://www.jflowershealth.com

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Without Regret the Podcast. I'm your host Tamara. May is Mental Health Awareness month and Today, I am so excited to have an exceptional guest, Dr. James Flowers. Dr. Flowers grew up in a home marked by addiction, stepping into an adult role at a young age after the sudden loss of his father. This early responsibility and the subsequent loss of one of his twin sisters to cancer profoundly shaped his life path.

Initially pursuing a degree in marketing and finance, Dr. Flowers changed course to align his education with his values and passion for helping others. His journey led him to the Betty Ford Clinic, where he honed his expertise in addiction recovery. With a distinguished career at several prestigious institutions, he eventually founded the J Flowers Health Institute in Houston, Texas. The institute is renowned for its unique, complex and comprehensive approach to recovery. 

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Flowers is the host of the podcast Understanding the Human Condition, where he delves into the complexities of mental health and addiction with experts in the field. Join us as we explore his remarkable story and the unique insights he brings to the table in our discussion today.

In this insightful episode of Without Regret the Podcast join host Tamara as she delves into the topic of overcoming alcohol addiction with the help of Naltrexone. Crystal Fedeli, shares her expertise and experiences with this groundbreaking medication and her struggle to obtain it. Discover how Naltrexone works, its benefits, and its potential impact on the journey to sobriety. Gain valuable insights into navigating the complexities of addiction recovery with compassion and understanding. Tune in for a candid conversation that offers hope and practical guidance for those seeking freedom from alcohol dependency.

Welcome to this week's episode of Without Regret the Podcast. This one is late, but worth the wait. My guest this week is "SASSI" Christine Malek. Christine has been through any and all forms of abuse you can imagine and not only survived, but she is now "Sur THRIV Ing".

Christine has endured multiple  Sexual abuses beginning at a very young age and continuing into adulthood. She's been abducted and tortured, married to not one, but two narcissistic abusers. Her second husband was worse than the first, who ultimately ended up shooting her in the back of the head in 2016. After spending over a year In and out of hospital;  4 surgeries, 15 procedures, dying on operating table twice all while still married to him. She finally had her ah ha moment in late 2018 and  found the strength to leave and began her journey of healing.

This journey includes a strong passion for amplifying the voices of woman who have been abused and starting the SASSI program designed to help women find answers and to achieve their goals and objectives of discovering their true SASSIness. She also hosts her own podcast called "Talking SASSI about abuse: Amplifying Women's Voices". Her ability to overcome unimaginable circumstances is why I am so excited to bring you this episode. Join us to find out what SASSI means to her and how she was able to find her strength. Please help me welcome SASSI Christine to Without Regret.

**Trigger Warning - This episode contains talk about abuse and violence

Welcome to Without Regret, the podcast where stories of resilience and redemption take center stage. I'm your host, Tamara, and in each episode, we delve into the lives of individuals who have faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger on the other side.

In this episode we continue the conversation with Michelle Shekhinah in part 2 of her story where she shares some very helpful, practical and valuable tips for planning your escape from an abuser. If you haven't listened to part I I recommend you listen to that first. This is Without Regret, lets dive right in.

***TRIGGER WARNING - this episode contains conversations about sexual violence and abuse. Welcome to Without Regret, the podcast where stories of resilience and redemption take center stage. and in each episode, we delve into the lives of individuals who have faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger on the other side. Today, we're honored to share the remarkable journey of Michelle Shekhinah, a survivor whose life took an unexpected turn in 2014. What began as a fairy tale marriage soon turned into a nightmare of abuse and exploitation. But in the face of unimaginable darkness, Michelle found the courage to break free and reclaim her life. Join us as we explore her path from despair to empowerment, from victim to advocate. Through her resilience, she not only saved herself but has also become a beacon of hope for others who have experienced trauma and abuse. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and uplifted in Part 1 of Michelle's story. At the end of this episode, there are a couple of messages I want to leave you with. The first is that what Michelle has experienced IS Trafficking. This is not normal behavior and if you are in a similar situation, you are not alone, you are not crazy, and there is help out there. The second is to believe the survivors when they tell their stories. It can be easy to hear all of this chaos and think "Oh this is just a jilted wife looking for revenge". That is not the case. Michelle is in hiding, she isn't naming any names or even her location. She has nothing to gain by talking about this other than helping other women who are being abused. I don't want to wait until the end of part 2 to talk about her foundation From the Floor to the door, which will be explained in more detail in part 2, but you can visit her website www.fromthefloortothedoor.com for help. Stay tuned for part 2 in the coming days.

Dive into a special bonus episode where I share an inspiring conversation with Terry Jaymes, co-host of the nationally syndicated morning radio show 'Lex and Terry' and host of the transformative 'T11' podcast. Discover the power of taking chances as we discuss the importance of never giving up and embracing opportunities, even in the face of rejection. Terry and I delve into the harsh realities of the motivational speaker industry, debunking myths and offering genuine insights into achieving happiness and success. From humble beginnings to thriving careers, join us as we uncover the truths behind finding fulfillment and transcending limitations. Don't miss this enlightening discussion with THE Terry Jaymes.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089243736384

Website: DamonNichols.com

I'm honored to have Damon Nichols, the best-selling author of "The Breakout Blueprint," join us. Damon's life has been a rollercoaster of challenges, from battling addiction to navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. Despite spending years behind bars and facing life-changing trauma, Damon refused to let his past define him.

Instead, he embarked on a courageous journey of self-discovery and personal growth, confronting the darkest corners of his life to emerge as a beacon of resilience and inspiration. Through sheer determination and unwavering perseverance, Damon not only overcame his demons but also transformed his life, becoming a successful entrepreneur and embracing a meaningful, international existence.

Join us as Damon shares his powerful story of redemption, resilience, and the profound lessons he's learned along the way. Get ready to be inspired, uplifted, and motivated to live life without regrets.

This week we're continuing the conversation about narcissism, only at home rather than in the workplace.

we are honored to have an extraordinary guest who has emerged as a beacon of strength in the face of adversity. 

Meet Dana S. Diaz – a wife, mother, and the bestselling author of "GASPING FOR AIR: THE STRANGLEHOLD OF NARCISSISTIC ABUSE." In this "can't put it down" book, Dana outlines her journey with narcissistic abuse, which  began in childhood and has woven its way throughout her life. Armed with an education in journalism and psychology from DePaul University in Chicago, Dana possesses the unique ability to articulate the intricacies of narcissistic abuse, shedding light on the confusion and conflict it inflicts upon victims.

In this episode, Dana shares her personal experiences, chronicling a nearly three-decade-long abusive marriage. Her journey from hiding a journal under the couch cushion in the basement to becoming a proud voice for victims is nothing short of inspiring. Today, she stands as an advocate for those who may be unable, afraid, or ashamed to share their own experiences.

Having been a guest on over a hundred podcasts worldwide, Dana strives to create awareness and understanding surrounding narcissistic abuse. As a featured speaker in a Summit for healing after trauma and with upcoming features in two more Summits this year, Dana is dedicated to ensuring that victims receive the support they need to comprehend their situations and embark on the healing process.

This is "Without Regret," where we bring you stories that empower, inspire, and remind you that you are not alone. Get ready for a conversation with Dana S. Diaz that sheds light on the strength born from adversity and the journey towards healing.

Today, we have a remarkable guest whose passion is nothing short of infectious.

Building on the last episode with Kimberly Williams, who recommend today's guest, we continue the conversation about abuse in the workplace. While Kimberly primarily helps people who have already been abused, my next guest is committed to transformation to prevent the abuse in the first place.

Joining us is Dr. Lindsay Ruiz,  VP of Transformation & Experience. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayruiz/) With a mission that resonates deeply, Lindsay is here to reignite your belief – not just in the companies you work for, but in the leaders you admire, in your own untapped potential to lead, and in the products and services you choose to embrace.

In this episode, Lindsay delves into crucial topics like leadership, putting humanity first, the importance of dignity, cultivating healthy workplaces, and the essence of transformational change. Get ready for a conversation that goes beyond the surface, exploring the core elements that shape our professional lives and beyond.

So, if you're seeking inspiration to believe again – in your workplace, in your leaders, and most importantly, in yourself – this is the episode for you. This is "Without Regret," where we invite you to embrace the power of belief and witness the ripple effects of transformation.

Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion with Dr. Lindsay Ruiz.

As a seasoned HR Chief, This week's guest has  navigated the intricate landscape of workplace abuses from both ends of the spectrum. Picture this – filing complaints against her own boss and even the chief executive, all while her board hesitated to address decades of bullying and harassment. On the flip side, She's spearheaded numerous internal investigations across diverse environments.

In this episode, I bring you insights from both sides of the table, demystifying the often perplexing process for employees. We'll shine a light on those behind-the-scenes conversations between HR and the upper echelons of an organization. But here's the twist – Kimberly is  not here to offer the conventional advice of seeking another job or resorting to coping mechanisms for the trauma of workplace abuses.

Instead, she's here to empower you. She shares practical strategies on how to advocate for yourself and build direct evidence that can bolster a formal complaint or even a legal claim. And for her fellow HR professionals trying to instigate change in an organization where the boss isn't on board, Kimberly's got your back too – offering guidance on managing up effectively.

Get ready for an episode that redefines the narrative. This is "Without Regret," where we equip you to stand up, speak out, and reclaim your power in the workplace.

Resources:

Kimberly Williams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-e-williams/

www.endworkplaceabuse.com

https://workplacepsychologicalsafetyact.org/

Welcome to season 3! I'm excited for this season. I've already got episodes recorded through early April! You will get to hear more from some experts this season and not just survivors - although you'll hear from them too!

I am so excited to introduce a remarkable guest who is making a significant impact in the intersection of domestic violence and pet welfare.

My guest, Orazie Cook, is the Founder and Executive Director of the Praline's Backyard Foundation. While she's been fortunate not to experience domestic violence herself, her upbringing instilled a lifelong dedication to volunteerism, inspired by her mother.

During her college years, Orazie volunteered at a crisis line and later at a domestic violence shelter, where she witnessed survivors grappling with a heart-wrenching dilemma: the fear of their pets being harmed or used as bargaining chips to lure them back into dangerous situations.

These experiences deeply influenced Orazie, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, as domestic violence cases surged, she took time to reflect and decided to take action. She established the Praline's Backyard Foundation, a unique initiative partnering with shelters, domestic violence survivors, dog boarding facilities, and fosters to provide and fund accommodations for survivors' pets.

Orazie's background in public health and her passion for animal welfare motivated her to navigate the complex process of helping survivors secure safe housing for their pets.

In this episode, Orazie shares her inspiring journey, her profound understanding of the bond between survivors and their pets, and the vital role of fostering. Her unique insights and unwavering commitment make her an ideal guest for this  Podcast." Join us to explore the transformative power of fostering and the significance of pets in survivors' lives, as we work together to ensure no pet is left behind.

In this captivating episode, we saddle up for a remarkable journey with Shane Jacob, a true cowboy at heart. Shane's story begins on a sheep ranch in Central Utah, where riding horses was simply a way of life. After high school, he ventured into the world of rodeo, embracing the thrill of the cowboy lifestyle.

However, in 1992, Shane's path took an unexpected turn as he relocated to Las Vegas and embarked on a new professional venture - shoeing horses. Over the past 30 years, he has built a rich tapestry of experiences in the equestrian world, from starting and training colts to breeding and showing horses. 

However, beneath these accomplishments lies a more profound story. Shane battled alcoholism for over 20 years, a personal struggle that has shaped his journey and deepened his commitment to personal growth.

Fast forward to 2021, Shane, with an incredible team, introduced the world to "The Horsemanship Journey." This groundbreaking platform has quickly become a trailblazer in personal development for horse enthusiasts. It's a place where the age-old wisdom of great horsemen meets a proven system, accessible to anyone interested in pursuing excellence. 

At the core of Shane's message is the belief that every individual's worth is immeasurable, irrespective of their past actions. He fervently asserts, "Continually working on improving our self-image isn't a good idea. It is our duty to God, to ourselves, and to every other person we interact with because we are only able to make positive contributions to others to the degree we feel positive about ourselves." 

Shane's mission is clear - to enrich people's horse experiences and infuse greater happiness into their lives by encouraging them to live with purpose, on purpose. As the founder of The Horsemanship Journey, a certified life coach, professional horseman, and author, Shane Jacob is on a mission to help you unearth your full potential. 

Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, inspiration, and the powerful notion that "the best is yet to come." Shane's journey is an invitation to embark on your very own horsemanship journey, where self-discovery and personal growth are just a hoofbeat away.

In this episode we're delving into a topic that has remained in the shadows for far too long – the devastating impact of financial abuse.

My extraordinary guest, Kasey Rogers, is an author who courageously penned a memoir that lays bare her personal journey through the tangled web of financial abuse. This powerful memoir not only recounts her story but also uncovers the heart-wrenching truth about how, after leaving a thriving career in commercial film to raise her twins, her sense of self slowly eroded as her husband tightened his grip on their finances.

But the tale takes an unexpected twist. Just as she mustered the strength to plan her exit from a 24-year marriage marked by control and manipulation, her husband faced a dire diagnosis – Stage 4B Esophageal cancer and a broken neck.

Today, we'll journey through her memoir, a story that offers not just a personal narrative but also profound insights into the often-overlooked connection between domestic and financial abuse.

Beyond the pages of her memoir, Kasey's commitment to raising awareness shines through. She's currently in pre-production for a documentary titled "I Know Why She Stayed," shedding a much-needed spotlight on the rarely discussed issue of financial abuse – one of the major barriers that trap countless women in toxic relationships. You can join her crusade at www.kaseyrogers.com/i-know-why-she-stayed-initiative/

Her expertise stems from a deep passion to empower others with knowledge about the insidious nature of financial abuse and its inextricable link to domestic abuse. With meticulous research and an intimate understanding, she's poised to unravel the multifaceted nuances surrounding this crucial issue. 

Brace yourselves for an enlightening conversation that will challenge perceptions, educate hearts, and ignite change. Financial abuse may have thrived in the shadows, but today, we bring it into the light.

I really love to highlight the different techniques my guests have used to find inner peace, healing and to turn their lives around and this episode is no different. In this episode, we dive into my guest's remarkable journey of self-discovery and healing. It all began when, at the age of 19, she woke up to a heartbreaking discovery - her mother's lifeless body in their bathroom. The trauma from that day remained with her for two long decades, just beneath the surface, until a remarkable 15-minute session with a unique technique changed everything. She shares how this session released the emotional charge from that traumatic event, allowing her to tell the story devoid of emotion. This marked the beginning of her quest to not only release past traumas but also journey into her subconscious mind to unlock the deep-seated tension stored within her body, all through the power of her awareness. In a world that often tells us what we should or shouldn't feel, my guest emphasizes the importance of seeking our truth and embracing our genuine emotions as the path to inner peace. As she aptly puts it, "As within, so without." What sets this guest's story apart is her extraordinary ability to sense and release physical tension stored in her connective tissue using the sole focus of her mind. With x-rays as evidence, she showcases the incredible physical changes resulting from this inner work, including the alignment of her eye sockets, the straightening of her neck, the centering of her lower jaw, and even a remarkable 3/4-inch growth in height at the age of 56. Her message is clear: each of us possesses an incredible power within, waiting to be tapped into. By delving deeper into practices we may already be familiar with, we can harness this power for personal transformation. As many know, changing our internal world has a profound impact on our external reality, and my guest firmly believes that this change has the potential to not only reshape our personal lives but also our collective world. You will be captivated as I was by the wisdom my guest, Ann Hince, shares on her YouTube channel, where she chronicles her journey, explores the connection between the physical and spiritual, and provides insights into addressing pressing issues of our time. For those hungry for more, her book, "A Pathway to Insight," offers a detailed roadmap of her journey and the steps she took to attain what she calls Insight, the ability to see within the body. Prepare to be inspired as Ann unveils the extraordinary power that resides within us all and the transformative potential it holds for our lives and the world at large.

On a fateful Halloween night in 1985, the life of Susan Snow was forever changed. Her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams was tragically ambushed and killed while picking up her 6-year old brother from school. This devastating event set Susan and her family on a path they never could have imagined.

But, as you're about to discover, Susan's story is not just one of loss and grief. It's a story of incredible strength, resilience, and the power of the human spirit to heal. Susan's journey, filled with both heartache and hope, provides practical guidance and inspiration to anyone who has been touched by violence and loss.

Susan didn't just survive this trauma; she reclaimed her life. She learned to navigate the challenging waters of PTSD, finding a way to manage the unrelenting pain that can follow such a profound loss. But her story goes beyond that. It's a story of vulnerability embraced with courage, of experiencing loss without succumbing to victimhood, and of finding love through the incredible power of forgiveness.

So, get ready to be inspired and moved as we dive into Susan's extraordinary journey. Her resilience is a testament to the human capacity for healing and transformation. I know you'll find her story as powerful and uplifting as I have.

In this compelling podcast episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Derick Johnson, a US Army Veteran, Life Coach, and Trainer, who defied the odds to become a beacon of strength and inspiration for others.

Growing up in the South as a mixed-race individual, Derick witnessed hatred from both sides. However, he used this adversity as fuel, combining it with the challenging backdrop of a home scarred by alcoholism and rage. Fitness became his refuge, allowing him to find solace and remain composed during moments that could easily break others.

Derick's experiences served as a foundation for his success, propelling him forward both in his US Army career and his coaching journey. While the military provided a platform for his growth, his coaching career allowed him to channel his experiences into helping others navigate their own challenges.

Remarkably, Derick not only healed himself but also extends his knowledge to guide others on their paths to healing. His story stands as a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery, demonstrating how the darkest moments can be transformed into wellsprings of strength.

Join us for an episode that captures the essence of turning pain into power. Derick's journey exemplifies the potential for growth and transformation that resides within us all. Prepare to be moved by his story as he shares his remarkable evolution from a troubled past to a future filled with purpose, healing, and the desire to empower others to thrive.

Join us in this gripping episode as we dive into the inspiring story of Doug Sweeney, the creator of "BreakingBondagefromAddiction.com".

After years of battling addiction, Doug embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation, one that led him to not only break free from the chains of addiction but also to help others do the same.

Doug shares his personal struggle, having gone through countless secular programs in a bid to overcome addiction. Yet, despite these efforts, the sought-after peace and freedom remained elusive. However, his story takes a remarkable turn when Grace intervened in ways that defied measurement. Doug found the unfathomable truth that forgiveness was attainable, no matter the mistakes or the number of chances he had been given.

Through the lens of Doug's journey, we delve into the power of grace, redemption, and the unwavering love of a higher power. Doug shows us that no matter the weight of our shame, it holds no place within a heart that is willing to seek change and surrender control.

This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound transformation that can occur when one embraces grace and chooses to walk the path of healing. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that l hope might inspire someone to break free from their own limitations and embrace the transformative journey toward forgiveness and freedom.

In this powerful and inspiring podcast episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Victoria, a woman who defied all odds to become an award-winning executive leader and #1 best-selling author. Victoria's early years were marked by unimaginable challenges, born to a drug-addicted teenage mother who subjected her to exceptionally abusive conditions.

Join us as we discover Victoria's incredible journey of triumph over adversity and trauma at such a young age. Her ability to build resilience in the face of such hardships has been the driving force behind her unstoppable and dynamic nature. As a corporate executive, board director, and entrepreneur, Victoria's accomplishments speak volumes about her indomitable spirit.

We explore Victoria's rise to becoming the #1 social seller/public brand worldwide for her F500 employers, according to LinkedIn, and how her life's experiences have shaped her into an in-demand professional public speaker. With sought-after expertise in motivation, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, women in leadership, culture, workforce dynamics, and more, Victoria's insights are a beacon of guidance for individuals and organizations seeking positive transformation.

Prepare to be moved as we delve into Victoria's journey from a tumultuous childhood to becoming a mentor and leader in the corporate world. Her story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination, reminding us all that we are born to lead, not to be led by our circumstances.

Join us for this captivating episode, where we explore the life of an extraordinary individual who turned her trauma into triumph and is now leaving an indelible mark on the world through her unstoppable spirit and dynamic leadership.

Dave Albin was born in 1954 at Queen of Angels Hospital in Hollywood, California to a single mother.
He was adopted by his Aunt & Uncle on his mother’s side at the age of 5. His adoptive parents told Dave they were not his parents at the age of 11.
Later that year both his adoptive parents started drinking.
This is where Dave’s life took a hard turn.
Dave tried alcohol at the age of 11. By the time he was 14 he was experimenting with hard drugs.
Grossly addicted to drugs and alcohol he joined AA some 20 years later in June 1988.
This is when Dave was introduced to the personal development industry. He attended a seminar with Tony Robbins in 1995 where he did his first firewalk.
Dave went on to work for Tony Robbins for just shy of 20 years as Tony’s Firewalk Captain.
Dave retired from the Anthony Robbins Companies in 2014 shortly after GOOGLE hired him to put on an event for them.
Firewalk Productions, LLC was born in 2014.
Dave has done gigs for NASA, Heineken, The Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), RE Max, Chick-fil-A, Pruvit, Google, NI, NC Chiropractic Association, Isagenix, Heineken, Boone, Blowing Rock, Ashe and the Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce, Wayne Dyer, T Harv Eker, CRISP Video, Y.M.C.A., NATE BAILEY, Tony Robbins and many others.
Dave currently lives in the Appalachian Mountains in Ashe County North Carolina.

Rachel Lavin is a Published author of The Doughnut Diaries, Professional Speaker and Body Love Educator, Certified Personal Trainer and a Certified Health Coach.
In 2000 Rachel began her career as an ACE certified group fitness instructor teaching a plethora of classes. In 2007 she was certified as an ACE Personal Trainer working at big box gyms in NYC and becoming an independent trainer in 2012.  Rachel wanted to take her passion for helping people to the next level and became an ACE certified Health Coach in 2018.
In 2020 Rachel wrote her first book "The Doughnut Diaries" about her own struggles with her weight and restrictive diets which lasted for over thirty years. As Rachel turned forty the expression I got sick and tired of being sick and tired hit home and she made a decision to take her power back and heal from decades of negative thinking and self sabotage.

Rachel began to do the work on my mind, body and soul. Writing her book was her way of sharing her message to women and men alike that you are not alone! Now using her book Rachel wants to help people who have had or are still experiencing negative body image. By using what she now refers to as her three pillars of fitness; Nourishment for both the mind and body, Movement & Rest.
Rachel's mission is to create a safe space for all women (and men!) to feel whole in their own body.

***Trigger warning: This episode contains depictions of violence, rape and trauma and may not be suitable for all listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

This is Part 2 of a 2 part series in which Author and Public Speaker Amanda Blackwood tells her heroing story, beginning with her childhood, of being trafficked on three separate occasions; how she escaped all three times and ultimately took her life back after one of her traffickers posted pictures and videos of her on porn sites without her consent making her famous. She explains what human trafficking actually is (not what the media would have you believe) and clears up several myths surrounding trafficking as well as sharing how she was able to heal and become a successful author and public speaker. Amanda has become a Trauma Mentor and works tirelessly to help others in need and also hosts 2 podcasts: The Survivors (by Amanda Blackwood) and Growth from Darkness along with Hrisanthi Dokos.

***Trigger warning: This episode contains depictions of violence, rape and trauma and may not be suitable for all listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

This is Part 1 of a 2 part series in which Author and Public Speaker Amanda Blackwood tells her heroing story, beginning with her childhood, of being trafficked on three separate occasions; how she escaped all three times and ultimately took her life back after one of her traffickers posted pictures and videos of her on porn sites without her consent making her famous. She explains what human trafficking actually is (not what the media would have you believe) and clears up several myths surrounding trafficking as well as sharing how she was able to heal and become a successful author and public speaker. Amanda has become a Trauma Mentor and works tirelessly to help others in need and also hosts 2 podcasts: The Survivors (by Amanda Blackwood) and Growth from Darkness along with Hrisanthi Dokos.

In this episode, my niece Brenda explains her struggle with FND (Functional Neurological Disorder), the things that caused her FND including Rape, a narcisistic husband, self-doubt and a son who has autism. But most importantly, she talks about how she got out of her bad relationship, and how she copes with dayt-to-day life now with FND. Oh and April is National FND Awareness Month!

For over 35 years I have held a grudge against my half-sister who was given up for adoption by my mother. She found evidence to identify her birth mother and managed to find our mom when I was 12 years old. Having always known she existed I was very excited to meet her. After 2-years our mom invited her and her family to come live with us in Florida until they got on their feet. After 4 months of them living with us and putting a financial burden on our Mom, they moved back to Indiana. I was 14 at the time. They didn't leave on the best of terms and we didn't speak for 10 more years. I have never told my sister that I had hard feelings, I have just sat on them for over 35-years. She had no idea. This is the first time we have discussed it since it happened. This is the first time I've given her a chance to let me know her side of things - where I have gotten out of thinking about the whole situation from my 14-year-old point of view.

My hope for this podcast episode is to show how there are always two sides to every story. Family is important, whether raised together or not. A lot of familes can't get passed things in their past and some never make amends. Here is a real-life, real-time example of how a healthy conversation can have a big impact and take a huge weight off of all parties involved. Forgiveness is a wonderful thing!!!

The title says it all!

Most women have trouble knowing their worth in the work place. We don't negotiate salary well, we don't ask for what we want. Joy helps us all understand how we can be much better at this while explaining how she got to where she is today. 

Self Awareness is a MUST. So what is it and how does it work? And WHY is it so important? Also I tell you about my weightloss surgery journey. 

My daughter Trey-c talks about life lessons and how she found happiness in her career and life in general. 

My Brother the ass hole who says no one gives a fuck (the one with the F-Bombs). We talk about our Mom, more about our Dad, our kids, trying not to get murdered, why my brother thinks he is an ass hole (he's right) and a whole lot more!

Sorry there haven't been any new episodes. I'm working hard on Part 2 of My Brother The Ass Hole! Hope to have it posted very soon!!!

Sub Title: The one with the F-bomb
I have a very ADD conversation with my brother about the things in his life that he struggled with - We are all over the place! It is interesting how different his life was from mine, even though we grew up together with the same parents in the same house. From ADHD to bullying, private school, the military and marriage, we discuss it all. We even get into church and some politics! You don't want to miss Part I of this story!

I realized recently how significant my career advancement was and decided to tell the story of how I got "unstuck" in my career!

Sherri is an inspiration in do it yourself weightloss! She falls off the wagon just like any of us, but has made so much progress on her own and is so motivated to keep going that just pulls herself right back up. Listen to find out how!

Patrick has had his struggles in life; his career, finding love and navigating life as a black man in America. But throughout it all, he has managed to stay positive, upbeat and find a way to make his dreams come true and he's well on his way! He has a new wife, a new business opportunity and moved to a new city during a Pandemic! Get inspired to be just 1% better every day by listening to Patrick's story!

Brittany is facing her past and telling her story of why she is emotionally attached to food and why she uses food as a coping mechanism. 

Jessica was born into very unfortunate, and traumatic, circumstances. Yet she is now happily married, has three associates degrees, a rewarding career and three wonderful children. Learn her philosophy on life and how she got to where she is now. 

In this episode, My Mom, June, answers my burning questions from episode 1.

This is a brain dump of my life from the time I was about 6 years old up through today. This gives you my background, the things I've done and how I grew up to be the person who I am today and explains more of why I want to do this Podcast. 

Listenn to learn about this Podcast and why you should listen!