Heartship Journey

My guest today is Beth Schlarmann who shares about living with Reflux Sympathetic Dystrophy, an incurable nerve disease in which she deals with chronic pain. Because of severity of this physically painful disease, it is also known as the suicide disease because approximately 20-25% of those with this disease commit suicide because they are unable to handle the pain. Beth shares some real honesty about what the last 15 years of living with this disease has resulted in her mental, physical, and social experiences. What left me in such awe was her attitude in choosing JOY each day she wakes up! You are sure to be inspired from listening to Beth's episode!

Today is part 2 of my interview with guest Allison Gibbs, a director with Mary Kay, who is speaking her truth about her roadblocks, challenges and momentum! Part 2 is going to be another high motivation episode and one I know will have you reflecting on what is it you need to hone in on for what you are meant for!

My guest today is Allison Gibbs, a director with Mary Kay, who shares about her personal de-conditioning; which resulted in her own growth and supporting other women! Her 2 big take-aways are #1 – know your worth and #2, there are NO rules! Also, Allison shares how she became super aware that God was answering prayers she didn't know she was praying! My interview with Allison left me in awe and super motivated. In fact, I decided to break her interview down into 2 parts – a first here on the podcast! A double dose of inspiration in each part and I know this is going to speak to those of you who hold a dream in your heart but maybe are unsure of what to do with it! Get ready for so much goodness!

My guests today are Lara Ness and her sister Trish Raap. Lara suffered from a brain aneurysm a little over 3 months ago. Honestly it is a miracle she is able to be apart of the podcast. 75% of all brain aneurysm rupture result in either death or permanent disability. Trish recounts her experience starting with the moment she got the phone call about her sister to what it has meant for her! This is an incredibly moving episode and one I was so honored to have 2 amazing women be apart of! Thank you so much for listening to the Heartship Journey podcast today! Be sure to check out my website to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Kari Moore, who became a widow at age 26. Kari shares of her late husband, Travis Pataska and how they met and their love story and heartache. Travis had a bucket list that Kari had intention of supporting so he could achieve what was always on his bucket list, even after his passing. This is an incredible and uplifting story and one you will want to share out! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Laci Svennes, the birth daughter to Crystal Weber, who was on a previous episode. Laci was given up for adoption and raised by her parents Brad and Judi along with her sister Courtney. Laci shares about her upbringing and what it was like to connect with her birth mother, Crystal and half sister! Laci shares also about her faith journey. God certainly had a hand in so many moments! You will want to hear this full episode for sure! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Crystal Weber, a teacher and campus pastor who shares about how her faith shaped her. In college, Crystal was raped and she became pregnant. She shares about her experience in deciding to give the baby up for adoption and what happens years later! Crystal's perspective on how life was shaped is incredibly inspirational. We are reminded that even in the deepest, darkest moments of life, there is good that is able to come of it! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Dr. Ambra Brown, who started her career as a physical therapist and followed her heart to pursue a deeper passion of supporting pregnant women and those who wish to become pregnant! Dr. Ambra Brown is a pregnancy coach and had her own experience with postpartum depression. Her quote about life is one that we can all benefit from having in our sight as a reminder: "Where you are going is where you are meant to be!" Be sure to check out the show notes for some links to learn more on how you can connect and work with Dr. Ambra! www.drambrabrown.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drambrahealthcoach/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drambrahealthcoach/ Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Brittany Kelchen, who shares about her daughter, Saylor who was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, which is a heart defect as well as DiGeorge Syndrome, which is a chromosome disorder. Brittany shares about the health journey Saylor has experienced in her short 7 month of life. Brittany and her family are advocating for others who have this diagnosis and her perspective and mindset is incredibly inspirational! Be sure to check out the show notes for some links to learn more! https://22qfamilyfoundation.org/ https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/chromosome-22q11-2-deletion-syndrome/?fbclid=IwAR1EY0cd-k9_oA_eTPfJv0uUQ72YVL3ALF2_WSSPb75XoeD90-J-v8VWMW4 https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/tetralogy-of-fallot/?fbclid=IwAR02Zq2OMb5s_Xx30coCq2n7zk53Ykw5olxA7wuXqwI_eQXlrycMV8Phy3A If you are in the Dubuque County area, mark your calendars for Saturday, November 19th to attend a benefit, Keep Saylor Sailing Strong held in Worthington with doors opening at 4pm. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Kathryn Nedder, who shares about her experience that resulted from an unplanned sign up with Be The Match. Be The Match is a nonprofit organization that matches up donors with recipients for bone marrow transplants. Kathryn shared with me she “hates” needles and never thought she would get matched until she was well into her adulthood. The reason she decided to go forward with it was reflecting on if it was her or her family, she would want someone to do whatever they could do to help them have a chance. If you are interested in learning more about signing up to be on the bone marrow registry, check out the website of www.bethematch.org. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

After over a year of interviewing guests to share about their personal experience of hardship and celebration, it's my turn! I share about my first hardship experience and how it stayed in my head as I grew into adulthood. I didn't prepare anything for this and as I started it, I quickly realized this was something I needed to release (cue the unexpected emotions). Having a sense of belonging has been something I've longed for and desired and tended to give the power away but now, I've reclaimed my power and have a true sense of belonging! I am so thankful for my life - even the dark and ugly times because they evolved me into who I am today! Thanks for listening and be sure to check out my website at www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other stories of inspiration!

My guest today is Brittany Lansing who shares about her health journey battling malignant melanoma. As her mom referred in Brittany's baby book, she was blessed with all these moles, it wasn't until September 2013 in which a dark mole on her chest started the process that would result in a cancer diagnosis. Brittany's personal story is what defines perseverance and you will be so glad to have had a chance to hear it!

My guest today is Jessie Waddell, who shares about her health journey to be able to fully feel WHOLE. From her younger years with dealing with an eating disorder through her adult life with distorted eating. Jessie shares all she went through. I had so many take aways from this conversation and I know you will too. For those of you with young children, especially daughters, this episode will open a new perspective! Listening to Jessie was extremely inspiring and I hope you are also inspired by what you hear!

My guest today is Lindsey Cota, who shares about her journey with the diagnosis and treatment of Stage 4 colon cancer which metastasized to her liver. All this taking place shortly after moving from Iowa to North Carolina. I love Lindsey's quote, “Everything is going to be alright.” It's this positive mindset that Lindsey says is important to bring into any situation we face because there is a little bit of good in everything bad. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Cory Farley, a singer and songwriter. He grew up in Decorah, Iowa and had planned to be a mechanic but a trip to Mexico and a karokee song changed his life! Now he lives in Nashville and has head lined shows for some of the legends of Country Music. Cory shares with me about his musical career journey and what it has meant to him. Be sure to check out Cory's songs and learn more about upcoming shows by following him on Facebook and Instagram and checking out his website. www.coryfarley.com Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Nick Johnson, a musician who is a singer and songwriter and currently the lead guitar player for the Corey Farley Band. I met Nick the night he and the band played a performance in our local town. I had asked him if his musical ability came naturally or if he was self taught and his response was something that left me speechless. You will have to take a listen to hear Nick's background with music in education and performing. Our conversation was intended to talk about his musical journey but I realize it has such a deeper meaning in regards to what we allow ourselves to go after or hold ourselves back on. If you are a person who ever experienced self doubt, Nick's perspective is one to hear! Be sure to check out Nick Johnson's music by following him on social media www.instagram.com/musicbynickjohnsonas well as the website: www.musicbynickjohnson.com.

My guest today is Ashley Hall, who shares about her experience with her family members and cancer. Through her experience she reminds us to be grateful for the little things and there is always a positive side to everything. Ashley inspires me on so many levels and I know you will be inspired by her as well! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Carl Denlinger, who at the age of 39, experienced a heart attack. He recalls the worry of being alone in the hospital and praying he wasn't going to be taking his last breath. Carl shares how his life perception has changed among the hardships he experienced. These days he is sure to take more walks and has a more positive outlook on life. Be sure to check out Carl's DJ services , Combat D Production at www.facebook.com/combatdproductions . Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Janene King, founder of Empower Her Co., who shares about her life which included living and leaving the Amish community as well as the devastating drowning accident of her brother. Janene also shares about what community means to her and how her faith was grounded. Listening to Janene was very riveting and I hope you are also inspired by what you hear! Be sure to check out Empower Her Co by visiting the website www.empowerher.co .

My guest today is Daniella Dupont who shares about her son Brecken. Daniella shares of her son's triumphant life journey and what life brought when Brecken went to his heavenly journey including the Living for Brecken Foundation. Daniella shares of her favorite saying, “Some only dream of angels…I. held one in my arms”. Daniella is a woman of resilience and someone I am incredibly inspired by and I hope you are also from listening.

My guest today is Allison Corbin who shares about her son Logan and his diagnosis of Fibrous Dysplasia, which is a skeletal disorder where fibrous bone replaces normal bone. At age 5, Logan underwent his first surgery. Allison shares about her faith journey and how with Logan's health issue, she found herself leaning in and trusting God in a new profound way and how this has evolved for her. Allison is a dear friend and my own spiritual mentor and I am excited for you to listen and be inspired! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Jennifer Recker, who shares about her life journey in becoming a mother at a young age and how it literally saved her life! Additionally, Jennifer shares on how her journey of creating a business that was inspired for both her and her daughter in creating a clothing boutique, J&R Fashions, located in Dyersville, IA that went through incredible growth along with surviving the pandemic. Through everything Jennifer experienced, she reflects back to how it made her so strong with the mentality of “You Got This!” This is a truly inspiring woman and I was so honored to sit down and talk with her! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration

My guest today is Libby Schwers who was diagnosed with Friedreichs Ataxia (FA) which is a highly rare genetic, progressive, neurodegenerative movement disorder. Libby's positive mindset is infectious! She shares of her life motto of “Keep Moving” and she lives that daily! Although there is currently no cure for FA, Libby is an advocate for bringing awareness and financial resources through her fundraising efforts for Friederichs Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA). If you are interested in purchasing a Keep Moving shirt or laptop sticker to support research for FA, email Libby at Schwers.libby@gmail.com. Also be sure to check out Libby's soy candles that she makes on her website or social media handles! Website https://www.withlovelibby.com Instagram: @withlove_libby Facebook: @withlovelibby I'm in awe of how Libby continues to perservere and has such determination and not letting her keep her diagnosis from holding her back. It's a reminder that we are limitless and I hope you find it inspiring too! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Mark Kightlinger, a military veteran who turned his love of animals into helping to rescue and rehabilitate dogs. He really is a gifted dog whisperer! Mark shares of his life journey which included being a marine corp, personal injuries, prescription use, feeling at the lowest point in which he no longer wanted to be around and how he worked through and found self love. Mark has always been an animal lover and through the VA he was able to receive an emotional support animal back in November 2016. When he learned of a dog in dire conditions, Mark realized this was a chance for him to connect with the purpose he was wanting to have but wasn't quite sure what it was to be. He has taken in and rehabilitated or fostered several dogs and actually adopted 3 of them! Mark recognizes that a person has to go through hell, particularly with addiction but there is light on the other side if you just keep the persistence. He is proof! I was very inspired by the journey Mark shared with me and the love he has for animals and I hope you do also after listening! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Josh Lenz, a husband and father of 3 beautiful girls, who shares about his journey with the NFL. In his younger years, Josh had dreams and aspiration to play professional and his athleticism really allowed him to excel in multiple sports. He decided to focus on football and from that a powerhouse athlete truly emerged. He shares of the feeling and mindset of having the capability to pursue football in a more advanced level. Josh credits his incredible support from his parents, family and friends. Josh's journey is a great reminder to us all that if you feel something down deep inside, it's worth going for! One thing I like to say is that there is no such thing as failure, only feedback. If and when something doesn't go as planned, there was something more we were meant to be or called to do. For Josh, that meant a chance at fatherhood and being available for his family. I was very inspired by the journey Josh had and I hope you are too after listening! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Jerry Manemann, a Vietnam veteran who was drafted into the Army in 1969. He shares of his time in the jungle including what conditions were like and the worry of each day and task assignment along with the recall of a devastating attack on his platoon. You will hear Jerry's homecoming joy with being apart of the Honor Flight last October as well! I am so thankful for Jerry's willingness to speak with me as you can imagine it was very emotional to speak of what took place. We owe so much for the freedoms and liberties we have as citizens to the brave men and women who were involved and stepped up to protect this Country. Please be sure to thank a veteran and active service member because it is because of them for which we get to do what we do each day! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration

My guests today are Janet Hefel, Krystal Wedewer and Abby Davidshofer who share about their late father/husband, Roger Hefel's diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease. Parkinsons was something they had not experienced with anyone in the family. So as part of the journey in self learning and doctor's visits and becoming care takers, they also started a Parkinson' support Group – Parkinson's Awareness of Clayton County, which was created in 2015. I'm excited for you to hear ALL this non profit organization has been able to do and provide since it's creation! I'm so inspired by all the positive down stream impact the creation of this group has resulted in and I believe you will to! Please be sure to check out the website pacc-iowa.org on how you can contribute or learn about upcoming events! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guests today is Meredith Brough , mom of 5 and a sleep coach who works with parents to improve their little ones sleep. She shares her life journey and experience in which she calls “colorful”. Meredith shares about her childhood which included frequent moves and changing of schools and how her upbringing impacted the vision she had for her own family and children with a desire for them to have connection and talk as a family. Meredith shares some of her experience in major moments in US history too! Be sure to check out Meredith and her services on her website, Sweetslumbertime.com and catch an episode on her podcast, Sweet Slumber Podcast! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration

Friends, I'm am so excited to be sharing with you an exercise you can do to help create and connect with your vision/goals for 2022! This is something I did last year and when I reflected back on 12/31/2021 with what I wrote December 31, 2020, so much of what I wrote was something I marked DONE! You will want a piece of paper and pencil and pen and a quiet - distraction free space to listen! After you complete the exercise, if you are open to sharing, I would love to hear what your I AM statement is. You can email me at chooseyourjourney@yahoo.com! 2022 is YOUR YEAR!

As we are getting ready to close out another year, it's often the time of reflection. I look back on what all took place related to the podcast this year. Its a bit surreal to think about all that has transpired from just one idea. The people I have met and the life stories shared has been transformational! I am so thankful to you for choosing to listen to an episode, understanding there are literally millions of podcasts to choose from! I hope you have enjoyed the episodes this year and that you had your own moments of inspiration! Cheers to you and a very Happy New Year!

As we approach the Christmas holiday this week, it brings about feelings of hope, love, perhaps even miracles and I'm very happy to share a story that emcompasses all of that with todays guests. My guests today are Bill and Sheri Vondran who share of their journey of being parents of a child with a drug addiction. Bill and Sheri are Christians who raised their children in a loving home with a good upbringing. In January 2013, they began to notice a change in their daughter and picked up on signs that things were not good, in fact it was the start of a deep dark 5 year journey. As parents they did all they could to help their daughter and leaned on the support of their pastors and friends and their prayer with God. They recognized they could not do it all by themselves. Sheri shares the 3 C's that she and Bill learned and adopted as part of their journey in drug abuse- Cause, Cure, Control: You didn't Cause it You can't Cure it You can't control it When a child goes through something like drug abuse and addiction, there can be quite a bit of judgement that goes with it from others. By putting judgement aside, it's important to remember those who go through something difficult such as drug abuse, are people. They have people who love them so it's so important to have compassion for others Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Emily Snedden, who shares her inspirational journey of living with diabetes. Her diagnonsis was the result of a routine life insurance check. In really a moments time she went from living a normal life to navigating a new normal with food, lifestyle and insulin to maintain the diabetes. Emily opens up about diabetes burnout and I love what she shares about chunking out your day when it seems to be going bad. I love her mantra too of “you have to keep going, you can't quit”. Emily is full of life and love and time with her was very motivating to me and I hope you feel that way too! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration

My guest today is Jenny Arnold. Jenny first started experiencing severe migraines in college. Her mom and grandma suffered from headaches as well so Jenny thought this is something she just has to deal with. She started to take notice how her body responded to certain scents, cleaning products, and foods. As a result she didn't settle for taking more medication but rather choose to be an advocate for her health, which mattered all the more as she determined her children and husband had food allergies as well. Jenny's motto is “live for today” and having the mindset that she can choose to feel good and find a normal way of life that works for her! I took so many good points away from Jenny's story and I hope you do to! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration! You can follow Jenny on social media: www.instagram.com/intelligentmovepilatesstudio www.facebook.com/intelligentmovepilatesstuio

My guest today is Lee Ann Smith who shares about her and her family's hardship from the loss of their home. November 24, 2018 ,the day after Thanksgiving, they had a house fire that resulted in a total loss. Lee Ann shares what withstood the fire and my friends it will give you goose bumps, it did for me! Lee Ann shares her perspective that “everything happens for a reason” and while the loss of their home was devastating, it also allowed them to create a new chapter in their lives, which involved once again navigating through unexpected circumstances- cancer and covid. Lee Ann along with her family tackled their challenges with having a positive attitude! I was so inspired hearing from Lee Ann and I hope you are too! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guests today are Austin Bain and Jacklyn Vondran who share their incredible life journey with me. Starting in their teenage years, as a result of trauma in their lives, they turned to drug use specifically with heroin. The heroin use numbed the pain, helped them to take on a "no one can hurt me" feeling, brought them together as a couple and took them on a drug addiction life style. Pivotal moments take place for both Austin and Jacklyn, which they share within the episode that started their process to wanting to end their drug use and seek a road of recovery. This episode is raw – it's real – it's inspiring because honestly it's a miracle for both people in the relationship who use together to get clean together. This episode is launching the week of Thanksgiving a time when we especially recognize those moments in life we are thankful and grateful for. Their reflection in being thankful for not giving up and making the choice to choose life is something we can be reminded of in our own daily lives. American Addiction centers offers free and confidential guidance to those suffering from addiction. Their number is 888-970-3743. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Erika Hermsen, creator and small business owner of Sweat Inspire Sisterhood, who shares about her hardship in losing her dad to cancer and the profound life changing effect it had on her! Many people face a health journey hardship and Erika had such a desire and to be an advocate for preventable health focus! This is an inspiring story of how one person's life and legacy resulted in an opportunity to help others focus on their health and fitness! I hope you enjoy this episode! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration! To check out Erika's program offering of the Sweat Inspire Sisterhood, visit www.sweatinspiresisterhood.com . To follow Erika Hermsen, check her out on facebook at www.facebook.com/sweatinspiresisterhood or on Instagram at www.instagram.com/sweat.inspire.sisterhood.

My guest today is Jacey Stanbro. Jacey shares of her journey with a detiorating health condition which included dizzy spells, mini strokes, migraines and seizures and a turning point that resulted in her growing closer in her faith with God and Jesus. Jacey's openness is very endearing and her reminder to give people grace is something we can hold onto and lean into.

My guest today is Tracy Berning-Birkbeck. Tracy shares of her journey of love and loss with her late husband Evan Berning, who succomed to cancer and their life motto in choosing to live. Tracy and her late husband took on a perspective to "say yes"! Think back for yourself, when's the last time you did something for the first time? This interview is incredibly moving and left me speechless and I took so much from the conversation with Tracy. I hope this touches your heart and has you thinking about that Say yes perspective too! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration

My guest today is Eryka Cook who shares of her journey of being bullied as a child which resulted in becoming active in karate and receiving her black belt. Through karate she gained confidence not only for herself but for sticking up for others. Her self defense interest continued into college and her passion continued to grow and over time and offerings of classes, she created her business Empowermental. Eryka made a statement during our conversation that was riveting. “You have the power to take it back”. Sometimes in life we find ourselves in situations that aren't suiting or can be harmful and it's finding the courage within to know that you have the power to take it back. I had the opportunity to take classes with Eryka along with my young daughters. It's empowering yet scary to step out of your comfort zone. Eryka offers self defense training at her studio which is located in Dubuque. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Kelli Nefzger who shares of her health journey that reached a peak in her early days of college. Back then climbing the stairs to her apartment left her feeling weak and fatigued. She was later diagnosed with Chron's disease, which is an inflammatory digestive disease. She shares what her life morphed into with numerous and length hospital visits, listening to her body, and having the mindset to stay the from a course. I love Kelli's optimism and perserverance and I recognized in myself how easily I take my own health for granted and it was a reminder to step back and be thankful. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Jade O'Connell who shares of her journey of trauma that resulted from the birthing process with her son 2 years ago. The birth resulted in a 4th degree tear which impacts 4% of women. Jade shares of her struggles and management turned advocacy in what she experienced. I am so thankful for Jade for her candidness in what she shares especially in regards to what most label sensitive or disturbing or the topics we just don't talk about. Jade has been able to speak to hundreds of women and bring awareness and hopefully the start of improvements among various platforms and I am happy to include this podcast to her platforms. Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Kylie Kelchen, who shares about the journey of her pregnancy with twins; which was high risk because of “twin to twin transfusion syndrome”. Kylie and her husband Travis received joyous news of expecting twins yet also were told that because of the conditions of the placenta, it could result in the birth of 1 baby or no babies all in the same appointment. Her pregnancy involved the need for immediate decision making, heavy monitoring, and a high volume of doctor visits and even surgery. Kylie reaffirms the importance to be an advocate for yourself! No mater what type of hardship or battle you are experiencing, advocate for yourself and lean on everyone who wants you to lean onto them. I was so inspired by the actions and perspective of Kylie and Travis and I hope this episode lifts you up as well!

My guest today is extra special to me as its my youngest sister, Katelyn Thielen, who shares of her relationship journey that included long distance experience with her boyfriend Mitch who enlisted in the marines. Katelyn and Mitch started dating in 2013 when Katelyn was just 18. When Mitch went off to boot camp, their communication was solely based on letters, an almost forgotten art but one that is so meaningful! As Mitch went through his journey as a marine, Katelyn went through her own self growth and discovery journey. Although together but physically apart, Katelyn shares she is so grateful for the experience and the bond she and Mitch have strengthened over time. I love what Katelyn shared about in having that first hug with Mitch at this graduation from boot camp and what that hug represented and the unspoken words and feelings from what a hug can do! Also as important, on tough days of having distance, take it day by day and have something to look forward too. To our country's servicemen and women who dedicate their time and commitment to preserving our freedom and keeping us safe, THANK YOU! Thank you for listening to this episode!

My guest today is Erin Clemen who experienced thyroid cancer at age 29 with having such a young family. Erin shares her favorite quote “We don't know how strong we are until being strong is the only choice we have” and how she dug into that during her diagnosis and treatment and able to celebrate her 5 year anniversary this summer! Erin appreciates a 2nd chance with life and gives wonderful advice 1. Surround yourself with with those who make you a better person! 2. Its ok to say no to things! 3. Enjoy life! 4. Be happy you are here! This is also a great reminder to be your own advocate for your health and if you have a bump or lump or something that doesn't feel or look right, listen to what your gut is telling you and get it checked out! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration!

My guest today is Trish Raap who experienced an unexpected job elimination. We often rely on our job to provide financial security and when a notification comes in that the job is being eliminated that can create challenges and a significant hardship. Trish shares of her journey of what she felt and experienced as a result of her job elimination and while there was a season of feeling unworthy she also had an amazing perspective sharing “we always land on our feet” and how she allowed herself permission to feel what she felt and why she is such a firm believer in everything happens for a reason. As a result of Trish's job elimination she took a "Happy class" on udemy.com and this led to her call for personal coaching. Trish shares some wonderful tips and reminders in this episode that are super useful! I hope you have some great take aways like I did from this episode! Thank you for listening and be sure to check out my website www.chooseyourjourney.co to hear other episodes of inspiration! Be sure to follow Trish on the following media outlets: FB: www.facebook.com/simplifywithyou IG: www.instagram.com/simplify_with_you Website: www.simplifywithyou.com

My guests today are Craig & Karen Wulfekhule, who recall their personal hardship from the night of September 2, 2019 in which Craig was badly burned as a result of a hog barn explosion when he went to turn off the breaker. Craig was burned over 60% of his body. Life changed in a moment's time for the Wulfekhule family! As Craig and Karen shared about those initial moments along with the road of Craig's journey and what it meant for them, I was strongly reminded that resiliency is so prevalent in the hardship we go through. Craigs words of "accomplishment" and "triumph" are reflective of the pride Craig and Karen have as a family unit, as multi generational hog farmers and the community they are apart of. I was so honored to sit down and speak with Craig and Karen and I love Craig's perspective that “getting old is a blessing” . I hope you are inspired by their story as much as I was! Thank you for listening!

My guest today is Fr. Carl Ries who recently celebrated his 51st anniversary in the priesthood. I'm actually someone who is deepening my spiritual relationship and every time I have heard Fr Carl speak, I have such immense take awaits and feel motivated by what I hear. Fr. Carl shares on his life journey including his own personal hardships. His mindset is to “take one day at a time” and “to keep going” and what struck me most is when he shared that if he can't laugh about it, then he's not far enough along in his acceptance of it. He doesn't intend to dismiss what he goes through but rather finds help being able to express laughter. Fr's humor shines through during our time together and I was so grateful for the chance to sit down and connect with him and wherever you are in your own spiritual journey, I hope you feel inspired by what you hear!

My guest today is Ashley Gloeckner, a wife, mom of 4 and teacher who experienced several hardships in her life that impacted her career opportunities, her health, and her family. Ashley's perspective is that there are reasons things happen and we learn from it! We may not always know in the moment or understand what we are going through or why but we learn from it and figure out what to do next! She's exactly right – every experience does create wisdom and she shared so much of her wisdom with me! I hope you walk away from listening to this episode with a sense of inspiration and motivation and wisdom for what you have experienced in your own life too!

My guest is Bridget Hamilton, who shares about her journey with Guillain-Barre, while pregnant with her 4th child. Guillain-Barre is a rare disorder in which your body's immune system attacks your nerves. Bridget's health quickly deteriorated in a matter of only several days going from experiencing tingling on a Friday evening to being unable to walk on Sunday and in ICU on Wednesday. Bridget spent an extensive amount of time in the hospital. With the support of her family and finding motivation in reminders of accomplishments made day to day, Bridget had success in learning to swallow again, sit up, walk. Things we really take for granted day to day. Bridget's family created this video about her journey. It is a dynamic showcase of what she went through and will leave you inspired. It sure inspired me! Bridget's video link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HCC1b622MUY

Today my guest is Sara McIntosh who shares about her journey into motherhood. Sara married Adriel and became a step mom to 2 amazing boys. As a family of 4 already, Sara and Adriel wanted to add to their family and several years and methods were tried. Finally after 5 years, Sara became pregnant and she shares her joy in seeing a perfect baby at her 20 week ultrasound only to be told that there could be something wrong with the baby. Sara reminds us that faith is strong but God is stronger and that God does provide and sometimes it's not the way we envision because it can be even greater and better than what we wanted. This story is just amazing and I am so inspired by Sara and her journey to motherhood and I hope you are too!

Today my guest is Shelby Shumacher who shares about her son Brody. Brody and his twin sister Leah were born at 25 weeks after Shelby's water broke. Leah was able to come home after spending 4 months in the hospital. Brody endured some health issues and was released when he was 14 months old. In December of 2009, Brody was diagnosed with a rare liver cancer and Brody lost his battle with cancer on January 5, 2010. Shelby shares of her family's resiliency and connecting with the phrase, you don't know how strong you are until you have to be. In a time of sorrow and loss, it also brings reflection of appreciating the small things and spending time at home together. Shelby is a woman of strength and total inspiration and I was so honored to have had a chance to sit down and talk with her! Thanks for taking a listen!