KOPE Life

How does a homeless 7th grade dropout go on to achieve remarkable success? Find out in this inspiring interview with Christopher Rausch on the KOPE Life podcast. Despite facing incredibly difficult circumstances, Christopher persevered. He shares his poignant story of hardship and homelessness as a child and teenager. Yet he was determined not to let his past define him. Through hard work, perseverance and a relentless drive to create a better life, he overcame the odds. Now an accomplished entrepreneur and author, Christopher reflects on the key moments and mindset shifts that enabled him to dramatically turn his life around. He explains how he drew strength from within, found mentors and developed an unstoppable work ethic. Christopher also previews his upcoming memoir "It's Just You and Me Kid," which releases later this year. The book chronicles his incredible journey and passes on lessons so others facing adversity can tap into their inner fortitude and find a path forward. This gripping interview provides inspiration, actionable advice and many takeaways relevant to anyone seeking to fulfill their potential and live their best life. Don't miss this powerful conversation full of hope, wisdom and never-give-up spirit. Keywords: Christopher Rausch, entrepreneur, author, memoir, adversity, homelessness, perseverance, grit, mindset, inspiration, self-help --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Welcome to our thought-provoking podcast episode featuring a remarkable author and survivor, Daniella Young, as she courageously opens up about her harrowing experiences with cults and sexual assault. In this emotionally charged conversation, Daniella shares her captivating journey of escape and recovery, shedding light on the dark underbelly of manipulative organizations and the resilience of the human spirit. In this captivating interview, Daniella Young, renowned author of the bestselling memoir "From Darkness to Liberation: Escaping the Cult's Grip," delves into the heart-wrenching details of her personal ordeal. Drawing from her own encounters with manipulation and abuse, Daniella sheds light on the deceptive tactics used by cults to control and exploit vulnerable individuals. Throughout the podcast, Daniella reveals the captivating story of her escape from the clutches of a notorious cult, providing insights into the indoctrination methods and psychological coercion employed by these insidious groups. She shares the struggles she faced during her journey, the pivotal moments that led to her liberation, and the subsequent path to healing and recovery. In addition to recounting her personal narrative, Daniella Young offers a broader perspective on cults and their detrimental impact on society. Drawing upon her extensive research and the experiences of other survivors, she provides valuable insights into the psychological and emotional consequences that victims of cults often endure. Moreover, Daniella explores the sensitive topic of sexual assault within the context of cults, shedding light on the intersection between these two deeply traumatizing experiences. With empathy and resilience, she discusses the long-lasting effects of such trauma and emphasizes the importance of support and advocacy for survivors. This thought-provoking conversation is a testament to Daniella Young's courage and determination to share her story, hoping to inspire and empower others who may have experienced similar struggles. Her profound insights will challenge your perceptions, ignite discussions, and ultimately foster a greater understanding of the intricacies surrounding cults, sexual assault, and the journey toward healing. Tune in to this impactful episode and join us on this transformative conversation with Daniella Young, as we strive to raise awareness, foster empathy, and work towards creating a safer and more compassionate society. Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with our latest podcast episodes, where we explore a range of captivating topics and engage with inspiring individuals from various walks of life. #Podcast #SurvivorStories #Cults #SexualAssault #Recovery #Empowerment #DaniellaYoung --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

In this riveting episode we delve into the extraordinary life of Lina Abirafeh, an indomitable force on a relentless mission to shield women and girls from the clutches of gender-based violence. From war-torn combat zones to the aftermath of devastating natural disasters, Lina fearlessly ventures into the darkest corners of the world, armed with compassion and an unyielding commitment to protect the most vulnerable among us. Join us as Lina Abirafeh, a beacon of hope and resilience, shares her harrowing and awe-inspiring experiences on the frontlines of humanity's greatest challenges. Unafraid to confront the brutal reality of gender-based violence head-on, Lina has dedicated her life to empowering survivors and dismantling the structures that perpetuate such atrocities. In this poignant conversation, Lina reveals the untold stories of her perilous expeditions, recounting her encounters with unspeakable acts of violence and the overwhelming strength of the survivors she's worked with. With unwavering determination, she has championed their cause, shining a light on their resilience and igniting a global movement for change. Throughout the episode, Lina divulges the profound impact these experiences have had on her own life and the fundamental lessons she's learned from witnessing the indomitable spirit of women and girls in the face of unimaginable adversity. Her insights into the root causes of gender-based violence and the urgent need for comprehensive, systemic change are both enlightening and empowering. This interview is an urgent call to action, a rallying cry for all listeners to join forces and confront the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. Lina's unwavering courage and unshakable resolve will leave you inspired and motivated to become an agent of change in your own community. Tune in to "KOPE Life" and embark on a transformative journey alongside Lina Abirafeh, as she uncovers the hidden truths of our world and champions the rights of those who often go unheard. Let her extraordinary tales of resilience, hope, and empowerment ignite your own passion to create a world free from violence and fear. Keywords: Lina Abirafeh, gender-based violence, combat zones, natural disasters, protect women and girls, rape, torture, resilience, empowerment, untold stories, systemic change, global movement, call to action, transformative journey, untold heroes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

In this episode, we address the serious issue of bullying, suicide, and hate against children. We will discuss the devastating impact these problems can have on young lives, as well as steps we can all take to help prevent them. It's important to remember that every child deserves to feel safe and loved, and it's up to all of us to stand up against bullying, hate, and to support those who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. Please share this video to spread awareness and let's work together to create a kinder, more compassionate world for all children. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

How do you find the right therapist? What should you do if you think you have depression? These questions are answered in this episode for you. The AMA series is geared to serve you and provide the value that you're looking for. If you have specific questions you'd like answered, email them to me at info@charlsongaines.com, and I will answer your questions in my next video. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

The most powerful voice to ever influence your life is your own. You will never talk to or listen to a voice as often as you do your own. So don't be your own bully. Don't be so mean. If you wouldn't say it to your best friend, don't say it to yourself. Choose to use the power of your voice to elevate your life. You deserve to be happy. You deserve compassion, empathy and encouragement. So be open to receive from yourself, and then watch your other relationships bloom too. Listen to this episode to learn more. You can also watch the episode on youtube at www.youtube.com/@charlsongainesphd --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

The mind-body connection is a powerful pathway to inner peace, healing, and happiness. Katie Moridor, a yogi with over 20+ years of practice and teaching, shares her expert insights on using yoga to heal, including her personal stories of overcoming her own struggles using yoga. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Suicide warning checklists and all the mandatory training are reactive. They have no value unless the person is suicidal. Wouldn't it better if we could actually help prevent people from becoming suicidal in the first place? And by people, I mean YOU, and everyone you love and care about. Listen in and find out how you can proactively prevent suicidality without memorizing lists and phone numbers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

You don't need closure. You don't need to ask her one last question. You don't need to clarify something, or get him to admit something. When you become focused on closure, you're setting yourself up to be dependent on someone else to direct your perspective and emotions about what you came up with in your head, and they will not provide you closure, or even answers that prioritize how you feel, who you are, or your real worth. Choose to move on. Learn more about why by listening to this episode on why you don't need closure, and be sure to subscribe to my youtube channel - www.youtube.com/@charlsongainesphd --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

If you could give advice to yourself of five years ago, what would you say? Would you be encouraging and optimistic, or judgmental and shameful. How we speak to ourselves is critical in helping us develop into our best selves. Listen and watch me do exactly that. #emotionalintelligence #hindsight2020 #selfawareness #authenticity #selflove #bestself #keepgoing #believeinyourself --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Suicide is a tough subject to talk about and nearly all of us have been impacted by suicide. One impact that we should not have to endure is guilt. When someone decides to take their own life, it is not your fault. Listen to me explain why in this episode. Learn to forgive yourself, and use your life as a way to honor the friends and loved ones who have left us. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

You are the reason why it is hard for you to accept compliments. Listen to this episode to dive deeper into how your own self-doubt and hyper self-criticism create a barrier to accepting genuine, heart-felt compliments from people who truly want to encourage and support you, and possibly draw closer to you. Then we can talk about how elevating your self-acceptance is the key to you being open to the optimism, positivity, encouragement, support and love from others. You deserve it. They aren't lying to you. They mean what they say. You truly are special. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Show yourself compassion and empathy. It is not your fault when someone you love dies by suicide. Watch this episode to learn to take the blame off, and make sure you don't poison your memories with guilt and shame, and then live your life to the fullest to fully honor their life. #emotionalintelligence #suicideprevention #suicideawareness #empathy #qualityoflife #guilt #shame --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Listen in as I discuss in detail the impacts of unsafe spaces. This includes teachers who are bullies, leaders who are toxic, and parents who belittle and humiliate their children. If you've ever been called stupid, worthless, dumb, or simply in the way by someone you trust who is supposed to protect you, then this is the episode you can relate to. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about perspective and taking accountability. Listen intently if you understand that how you perceive the world is the foundation of your overall quality of life. Taking responsibility and holding yourself accountable are ways you can build the life you desire and deserve. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is about you recognizing that you decide if you are living well. You are the creator of your life, and you decide the overall quality of your life. This is based on your standards, your values, and your relationships. This episode teaches you how to make the decisions and manage your thoughts, values, and actions in a way that aligns with you living your life well. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Let's discuss hwo to go from guilt, shame and feelings of worthlessness to actually knowing that you are enough - You are strong enough, smart enough, beautiful enough - YOU ARE ENOUGH! And in this episode, I outline the process of how to get there. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is the longest one so far and it is a candid, very real account of my life from failing the 9th grade to earning my Ph.D. and becoming Dr. Gaines. All of my podcast episodes are recorded and broadcast live on Facebook, IG, and LinkedIn. Follow me on those platforms to watch me produce each episode live. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is for you to learn to forgive yourself. It's a process. It takes effort. But forgiving yourself now positions you to transition into the healthier, happier life that you've been wanting and deserve. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This is the latest episode of the weekly Mental Health and Emotional Intelligence Ask Me Anything Series. I answer questions submitted to me by listeners, and it's live, so I also answer questions submitted by the audience. If you'd like to attend a session, follow Charlson Gaines, me, on LinkedIn and Facebook. This is recorded live every Tuesday at 2pm EST. You can also submit your questions to me at info@charlsongaines.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

In this episode, I interview one of my best friends who has endured trauma that I couldn't even fathom. She details the story of seeing her uncle's lifeless body in the car after he took his own life. This was just days after finding out her parents were divorced. She grew up in a volatile home on the western side of the island of Puerto Rico. She took all of her pain, trauma, and childhood adversity and learned to express herself and her pain through her art. She also managed to spend 20 years in the US Air Force as a Russian linguist. She is incredible. Listen in and learn from Valerie what resilience really is. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

In this episode, I address several questions, including questions asked during the recording of the episode. I answer questions about EI and alcohol abuse, EI and controlling behaviors, the possibility of healing from depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Listen to it all and if you have questions you'd like answered, feel free to email them to me at info@charlsongaines.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

In this episode, I interview Donni Martelle. She details so much trauma and tragedy including child abuse, racism, alcoholism and losing her son. But through it all, she finds a way to input positivity and an opportunity to learn in every story. She is phenomenal and truly fascinating. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Do you have questions about emotional intelligence or mental health? Do you want to get simple answers without having to spend a lot of time on internet searches or trying to find a therapist or professor? Every Tuesday at 2pm EST, I go live on LinkedIn and Facebook for a weekly Ask Me Anything session. This episode is the first one. Follow me on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/charlson-gaines or join my Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/you.deserve.to.be.happy so you can catch me live and also ask any questions you might have. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Welcome to the KOPE Life Podcast. In this episode, I interview Technical Sergeant Heath Gatti of the US Air Force. She is a true warrior. Listen to her describe the journey to go from feeling worthless, depressed, and defeated to the shining light that everyone needs. Pay attention as this route from depression and worthlessness gets worse before it gets better, include several months of helplessness after a very significant surgery. She is an inspiration, and you will be moved by her story. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode features Carol Hink, US Coast Guard veteran, discussing her experiences with sexual harassment while serving. She details the impact of the harassment on her career, including how it impacted her decision to leave the US Coast Guard. Sexual harassment has been an issue in the US military since women first began to serve in all branches. However, people of all genders have been and will continue to be victims of sexual harassment. This new legislation is a step in the right direction of reducing, and hopefully eliminating, sexual harassment in the military. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Welcome to the KOPE Life Podcast Interview Series. This interview series is an opportunity for us to hear stories of survival, inspiration and overcoming in a way that will move us all. Today's guest is Chrissy Marie. She is a powerful woman who's combination of strength, love, vulnerability and faith have ensured that through multiple tragedies and extraordinary pain, she continues to be the light we need in this world. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about you recognizing that you should be living the life that you desire and deserve. You may question your worth and what you deserve. I'm here to tell you that you deserve all the happiness, and all the good in life that you desire. Don't settle for less. Begin to build that dream life right now. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is focused on accepting imperfections within yourself to move forward and become unstoppable in 2022. You decide your fate, your purpose and your results. It's easier when you can accept who you are. If you'd like to have a deeper conversation about it, contact me at info@charlsongaines.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

I challenge you to commit to elevating your happiness in 2022. 2022 is the year when your resolutions are focused on your mental and emotional health. Choose you. Choose Happiness. You deserve to be happy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode breaks down simple steps you can do today, even right now, to be happier. You deserve to be happy, and when you elevate your happiness, others around you will be happier as well. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

We all have so many things to be grateful for. But gratitude is more than thank yous. Choose to look at life through the lens of gratitude. Choose to look at life with appreciation for your journey, the love you've received, the people who have enjoyed the love you've given, and even the opportunities to learn from losses. Make gratitude a foundational piece of who you are as a person. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about parenting in a way that empowers our children to develop their own values and goals. When they can define success for themselves, and then go be successful on their own terms, you know you've done something right. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

On this Veterans Day in the US, this episode is about veterans mental health. More specially, the focus is dealing with the transition from the military to civilian life. If that's been a struggle for you, this episode is also for you. Contact me if you need some help with this info@charlsongaines.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

We've heard the term toxic relationship so often. We look at other people who are miserable in their relationships and we use their pain as the measuring stick of what a toxic relationship is. But deep down, there is toxicity in your own relationship, and it hurts. Maybe you don't need a divorce. You just need to identify the toxins, and remove them, because you deserve to be happy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode requires you to acknowledge you deserve to be happy. Then four simple ideas are discussed about what you can do to elevate your happiness. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Nowhere in nature can you find an animal giving less than its best effort. It's unnatural to give less than your all. So when you really want something, and you're not going all in, why not? Why can't you commit? What is the issue? Let's talk about it. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is focused on you recognizing that you are worthy. You matter. You deserve to be happy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is about taking ownership of your life, stop complaining, and take action to elevate your life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about how you can be grateful for what you have, yet you know something is missing. You're unfulfilled. There's stagnation, boredom and even hints of misery. Because of what you have, you feel guilty for wanting more. The truth is that you deserve more. You deserve to live a fulfilling, complete and happy life. Now is the time to make that happen for you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about you elevating your self-awareness to understand why you feel certain emotions, including how you feel and communicate those emotions. And then this episode is about being accountable for your thoughts, beliefs, actions and behaviors surrounding those emotions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is about using daily gratitude practices and setting joy triggers to enhance your day right now, and to also prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for what may come in the future. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

People want to elevate their self-confidence. They are trying to build their confidence on a shaky foundation. Before you begin to build confidence, take action to elevate your self-awareness, heal what hurt you, and break down the barriers you've set for yourself. Then you'll be in a position to build confidence on a durable foundation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Social comparison can be like poison. This episode explains how to leverage self-awareness to turn away from social comparison and turn towards joy, positivity and optimism. When you do that, when you embark on that journey, there will be little room left for self-doubt. You deserve to be happy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode is all about the process of getting over past trauma, and the negative beliefs you've developed about yourself because of it. You do so through the process of elevating your love of self. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Choose to cheer for yourself. Choose positivity and optimism. Stop waiting for others. They aren't there for you because they have there own lives, but you are still loved so much more than you know. The problem is you're waiting for others to show you love first, when you should be choosing you. Be your own cheerleader. Encourage yourself. Go get that life you desire and deserve. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Suicide prevention is more than recognizing warning signs and taking action. Proactive suicide prevention is about building real relationships with kindness, optimism, positivity and empathy. Loneliness and worthlessness can be countered simply by being empathetic, vulnerable, authentic and available for people you care about. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

This episode explores what emotions are, what their purpose is, how you can learn to manage your emotions. Emotion regulation can elevate your happiness and enhance your life today. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

You have to learn to accept yourself before you can truly feel like you belong in any social circle. Learn to accept yourself by learning to love your values, hold yourself accountable, and stop judging yourself. This episode helps you to do that so you can stop being lonely. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support

Motivation without discipline has no value. Get over your feelings. Get over your mood. Do the work. Have the discipline, and you'll build the life you desire and deserve. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlson-gaines/support