Letters To My Younger Self

Katherine and her husband spent years trying to get pregnant, and after multiple rounds of fertility treatments, they finally found out she was pregnant! She couldn't wait to meet her new baby boy. When she found out her unborn child was diagnosed with Down syndrome she was absolutely devastated. Katherine shares how she has come to realize how incredible her life is with her sweet son Carter. Join me as we discuss infertitlity, Down syndrome and coping with life's many challanges. 

German Robles learned from a young age to never reveal his true identity, never talk about where he came from and never tell anyone where he was born. When he crossed the border at age 5, he would say goodbye to everything and everyone he knew. Starting school in a new country, he didn't understand a word anyone said, and would go home crying. There was always a fear growing up that he would be deported back to Mexico. Without a social security number he was unable to fly, drive, work at most jobs or even get a fishing license. German explains the role that illegal immigrants play in helping our economy. Robles says, "We are not all impacted by the laws surrounding immigration but we all benefit from illegal labor."

Join me as we celebrate Pride month with Sarah and Becky. They are an amazing, dynamic couple and went through very different experiences before finding each other. Sarah and Becky share their love story and how they came out to friends, family and colleagues. We learn about the struggles they've had to endure including the five years of being in a relationship without telling their families in fear of what they would think. These amazing women embody kindness, goodness and joy. "To be yourself is truly a revolutionary act, and I think more and more people should try it, because it's gotten me a pretty cool life." – Lena Waithe

Life was good for Jason Clawson: his family was happy and they were building their dream home when they received the heartbreaking news his wife had stage 4 cancer. Nine months after the diagnosis, his wife Valerie passed away. Jason was left picking up the pieces and not knowing how to survive being a single parent and coping with everyones grief. Jason shares about how he survived and had a support team of family and friends to help him in his grief. Jason quit his job as a mental health therapist and spent a summer making fun memories with his 2 boys. In order to give his sons some purpose, they started looking for yellow things to give to others. They started a lemonade stand that they donated items to families that had lost someone they loved. This lemonade stand morphed into what is now called Giving sunshine. Giving Sunshine is a Gift Box to help those suffering from cancer, the loss of a loved one or the struggles of life. It is therapy in a box that promotes healing. Jason has used his therapy background and this experience of losing his wife to help people navigate such a horrific time in their lives. Instagram: @givingsunshinedaily Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GivingSunshineDaily/ Website: https://givingsunshine.org/

Clint Martin had the unthinkable happen to him: on his way to Vegas for a work trip he was hit head-on by a drunk driver, killing his brother and his friend/colleague Kayla. The fact that Clint survived is a miracle. The highway patrol and paramedics couldn't believe he survived the 80 mph collision. After a year of recovery and face and body reconstruction, he encountered emotional turmoil. Clint was now expected to be “back to normal” but found himself struggling with survivors guilt and no longer had the will to be alive. Listen to Clint's story as he battled mental trauma and depression and how losing his brother taught him not to take family or life for granted.

Annette Miller is the founder of the organization UnityintheCommUnity. It is an organization that helps refugees and asylum seekers from all over the world. She has dedicated her life helping others, she retired early to run this organization full time. In addition to helping families with their physical needs, they also help teach english classes to help families better integrate into our community.  Annette shares how you don't need to have a lot of money in order to make an impact. In a world where there is so much headache and cruelty she has shown love and compassion. UnityintheCommUnity needs volunteers and donations to help all the incoming refugees.  If you are interested in making a donation you can Venmo the organization @unityinthecommunity

Brianna Moffett is an amazing figure skater and has competed since she was 8 years old. She shares what it takes to dedicate your life to a dream. She is now a skating coach and started the organization Skate for Cancer.

Hayley is a mother of 2 and currently going to school to get her license to be a Marriage and Family therapist. She has been a victim of domestic violence and is recently divorced. She shares about her near death experience and how she was able to get her kids to safety. Hayley shares how her therapist was able to help her overcome trauma and how she wants to help others do the same.

Emily Peterson shares of her experience when her 14 month old Grace was diagnosed with Leukemia. Her husband Josh was in the middle of medical school. She shares what the experience was like in the height of covid and how they had to keep their daughter safe. Taking care of Grace became a full time job, managing all her chemotherapy and medications Josh ended up taking a year off school. Many people were able to help them in very creative ways through this difficult journey. This experience taught her how no one is insignificant, we can all help lighten others burdens by showing up and showing we care.

Chrissy Lawler is a clinical Marriage and family therapist, a sleep consultant, author, and mother of 4. She is passionate about helping parents be successful in a shame free way. She has been able to help thousands of parents sleep train their children. She shares about her journey of becoming a sleep consultant. She shares why sleep is so important for your mental health, the baby and your relationships.  As a marriage and family therapist, she gives us some good advice on how to help keep your relationship strong. She is so wise and has lots of good insights into parenting and relationships.

Beth Moore is a mother of 3 children, two of which have had Spinal Muscular atrophy. Her son William spent his life on a ventilator and in a wheelchair. When her daughter was born with the same genetic condition, they signed her up for a clinical study days after she was born. This miracle medication has enabled Mary to breathe on her own and even walk and talk. Beth has dedicated her life to helping her kids and advocating for SMA and genetic testing for the condition. Beth is an inspiring person and is so positive and shares so many ways to take control of your life and live it to the fullest.

Kristen Knight has had an amazing career in Marketing and product managment and has always been very creative. She discovered her love for writing in her 40's and is the Author of the book Burning Zozo. Her book is suspenseful and creative and a delight to read. She shares her journey of how her characters come about and her writing process. She is a big advocate of protecting your creativity and how to really feed your soul. She encourages us to dream big in order to make whatever we are passionate about better and more fulfilling.  Her website is www.burningzozo.com. To purchase the hard copy of her book go to  https://www.amazon.com/BURNING-ZOZO-Kristen-Knight/dp/1677431113/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=burning+zozo&qid=1614967411&sr=8-1 To listen to the audio for free go to https://burningzozo.fireside.fm/

Ashley Martin is a young adult fiction writer, soon to be mother of 4 kids and the ultimate optimist. When she was 20 years old she was brushing her long auburn hair and it started coming out in clumps. Two weeks later she had no hair. She shares her journey of acceptance with the disease alopecia, and what she has learned from this experience. Ashley has learned to be herself, instead of trying to fit in with the what everyone else. She shares why losing her hair has actually made her happier. She is an inspiration and a force for good in the world.

Today I'm so excited about this interview with my sister-in-law. Allie is a musician, artist, entrepreneur and voice coach. She recently released an album and will soon go on tour all over South America. She shares her experience going from a little girl with stage fright to an amazing performer. Allies music career is unique in that she has been focused on how to help her listeners instead of how to become more famous. Her story is inspiring and you will love learning about going for your dreams and helping others do the same.

Jacqueline Dickson didn’t have the happiest childhood. She was abused by her stepfather from a young age. She has used the trauma she has experienced to help other women heal. She is kind and compassionate and passionate about helping others. She is finishing her bachelors degree and has plans to write and book and continue her education to help more people who have been victims of sexual assault. In the podcast we discuss signs someone may be abused and ways you can protect and prevent this from happening to your own children. Jacqueline has overcome so many obstacles and is a strong confident woman who shares her love and light to all.

Joan Steinman is a mother of three, a 15-year choir teacher, and is currently writing a musical. She is super dynamic, friendly and talented. Joan was diagnosed with ADHD after college but it really impacted her throughout her youth. She didn’t learn to read until she was in third grade. Joan is writing the musical called solve for X about an autistic boy who is learning how to navigate high school with the help of a map made by his older sister. Joan has done a lot of research on autism and shares a lot of helpful things to understand the autism community. To listen to her songs and get updates on the musical check out solveforxthemusical.com

Dr. Kiley Burton is a functional medicine doctor. In the podcast we learn more about what functional medicine is and how it can help people find solutions for their illnesses. Kiley shares what it was like going to medical school while pregnant. Her pregnancy with her first wasn't an easy one; she was so sick she had to have fluids pumped in her on a regular basis, all while taking tests, constantly studying and seeing patients everyday. Kiley lost her second baby at 20 weeks. This experience has really impacted how she functions as a doctor and how she relates to her patients. Now as a mother of 2 she is juggling being a mom, teaching people how to improve their lives and being a doctor. One thing Kiley is super passionate about is teaching people how vitamin D can be effective in fighting anxiety and depression.

Inettia got polio when she was just over a year old. She spent most of her formative years in the hospital. By the time she was 11, she had been in the hospital more days than at home.  Growing up as a young, disabled black woman she has faced discrimination in many forms.  Recently Inetta was diagnosed with Cancer and is currently doing cancer treatments. She shares about how she has been impacted by the civil rights movement as well as the ADA.  She is a ray of sunshine and is a wonderful example of being happy in any circumstance. She shares how her faith in God has helped sustain her though the hard times and how she has come to know her mother as she was an adult.  I promise Inettia will put a smile on your face, she has a gift for making people happy. 

Janica Ellsworth is an incredible woman who has faced heartache and hardship like you cannot believe. Her husband, Eric while on duty as a police officer was hit by a car and eventually passed away.  She never imagined that he would pass away, but when she was faced with this hardship, she learned a lot about grief and love. She shares advice on how to best help someone who loses a loved one. The police community came from all over the country to attend Eric's funeral and support her family.   Although her life has not turned out like she thought it would, she has been able to move forward and learn.  Eric's brother, Mike came to help with the kids and help take care of his brothers family. Janica and Mike grew a special friendship that eventually turned into a loving marriage.  They help each other and understand each others grief. Her story is truly incredible.

Nancy Major is an attorney turned mother and Bakery owner. We've all had a tough 2020, but the virus has hit the Major family especially hard. While they've been fortune to remain healthy, Nancy lost her mother and the bakery that they'd worked four years to build in the same week. If there is one thing 2020 has taught her, it's that you never know what life with throw at you. Nancy shares her experience being an entrepreneur and how challenging it can be. She shares how they have started two new companies during the pandemic to stay afloat. You'll be inspired by her energy and resilience!

A year ago this week, I got the idea to start a podcast. I decided it's probably time to learn a little more about me. I share about how I got the idea to start a podcast. You'll learn about my family with two sets of twins, all the places I've lived as well as some letters to my younger self. 

Amy Corpron is a remarkable woman. She shares her experience raising her Autistic son, Austin. She shares the joys of having such a loving, kind, considerate son and how that has blessed their family. She also shares some of the difficulties like when Austin would yell, "She's not my mother!" at the grocery store. Amy would have to wait until a police officer arrived at the grocery store before going home with her son. She is very inspiring as she shares how she has always supported Austin from the very beginning. She is an advocate for the autism community by bringing awareness to police officers, law makers and teachers. Austin had a dream to write and illustrate a children's book, but at the time he couldn't read or write. Amy always believed in him, and 10 years later he was able to reach his goal. She answers questions from Skye (the previous episode) on what it is like to raise an adult child with Autism and how she has helped him to be more independent. On the podcast we have the opportunity to hear from Austin about what it was like to write a book. To purchase the book that Austin wrote you can go to https://www.amazon.com/Sir-George-Quest-Grandfathers-Sword-ebook/dp/B07FPZXMK4

This month on the podcast we are going to focus on Autism awareness. For the first episode, I interviewed Skye Lefevre. Skye is an incredible mother to 3 active boys. Her oldest son, Dallin, is autistic. She shares about her experience with him as a baby, unsure what was wrong and how she could get him the help he needed. Getting to a diagnosis of Autism was a difficult process. Skye talks about the actions that have helped Dallin improve, her experience living in Belgium and provides great advice about how to teach your kids about those with disabilities. Skye shares how she has tried to let go of what others think or expect her to do and trust her instincts.  Skye shares questions about what it will be like to raise an adult child with autism, which we will answer in our next episode. 

Saketh Kalathur was born in India and moved to Boston when he was two years old. He was born with clubbed foot. Fortunately, his family was able to get it fixed. After he graduated from Colombia university and was working as a consultant, he decided to move to Mumbai, India and work for a non-profit organization called Miracle Feet. Miracle feet helps children born with clubbed foot that don't have access to the proper healthcare. He shares how clubbed foot is one of the most common birth defects. In most places, it is treated routinely, but in India only 15-20% are treated. While he was living in India he had a life changing experience meeting the Dalai Lama. He learned a lot about love and acceptance from this interaction. Saketh shares lots of wisdom, one of my favorite things he said was, "The world is so much more than what you know. Everything you've ever experienced, every place you've ever been to, every person you've met, every idea you've ever read are only a tiny fraction of what the world has to offer. Never be complacent that you've had enough experiences to understand this complex crazy world. "

Mark is an officer at a juvenile detention center in Texas. He has been instrumental in turning around the lives of many of the young men he’s worked with. He believes in the boys and their futures. Mark sees himself in these young boys because growing up his dad wasn’t there for him. He believes anyone can change as long as they have someone who believes in them. Everyone deserves respect, and Mark shares how much showing love and listening can change a persons life.

Jett Hudson is inspirational and resilient. He saved his mom’s life as at age 3 when his mom stopped breathing. She later died when he was 10 years old. His dad got remarried and he became the oldest of 8 kids. His new step mom suffered from mental illness and drug addiction, which required him to step up and help raise his siblings. Jett shares how people have saved his life by being good influences when he didn’t have the support he needed at home.

Ruchi is charming, generous and smart. She is from India and shares about her experience moving out of her home at age 14, completing masters degrees at two of the world’s best schools and her arranged marriage. Throughout our discussion, we learn about her culture, how girls are treated and the evolution of arranged marriages in India.

Eris Faughnan grew up competing in gymnastics and is now an amazing CrossFit athlete. She shares her experience being black in a predominately white neighborhood. Starting at a young age, she was bullied and ridiculed for the color of her skin. Many of her friends unknowingly said offensive things to her. She shares how we can teach our kids about race. The recent events surrounding George Floyds death devastated her and gave her the courage to finally be bold and share her experiences. She shares how we can better support the black community.

Natalie Hansen is an extraordinary person. When she was 8 years old, 2 of her siblings died in a tragic car accident. She was supposed to be with them. We discuss loss and grief and how she has been able to cope with their deaths. We also discuss how the event changed her family dynamic and the guilt it caused her. Natalie is a mother to three boys and recently started a diaper bag company called purlieu. They just launched their beautiful bag this week. She shares what she’s learned and how much she’s grown in the process of starting a company.

Ian Thorley is a hilarious guy who is known for crazy dance moves and NBC’s “The Office” trivia. He has been in several bands with his electric cello and shares his experiences writing and performing music. He is currently in the Air Force. We learn about his experience overseas and what his training was like. He is also the father to 3 beautiful triplets. He has a very positive view on multiples and will definitely make you smile.

Jovani is a mother of 6, hairdresser, baker and photographer and is currently rocking green hair. Although her kids are close together, they didn’t come easy. She has been pregnant 19 times and has had 13 miscarriages. She shares her experience being a mom and how this has impacted her. We talk about her struggles with OCD and postpartum depression. She is a phenomenal cook and started a cookie company with her kids. She’s an inspiration and an amazing example of learning and growing in motherhood.

This week on the podcast I have Genny Hyde. Genny was diagnosed with bipolar II a few months after her parents were divorced. She shares her experience with her personal journey with mental health. She has struggled through hospitalizations, manic episodes and depression. She has made it her life’s journey to share and advocate for mental health. Her vulnerability has helped so many people to understand what they are going through. Her perspective is optimistic and encouraging as we learn and become more aware of the struggles with mental health challenges.

Melissa Ashton is an amazing mother to 6 kids. In this interview we discuss how her son Travis had a traumatic brain injury. He was no longer able to feed himself, sit up or talk and they weren’t sure he would make it. Melissa talks about how she copes with this challenge. Years later, she was contacted by CPS to help foster a blind little girl who was only 22 months old. What started out as a short-term arrangement turned into sweet Olivia winning over the family. Melissa shares how gratitude has pulled her though these challenging times and how blessed she feels to have these sweet people in her life.

Ramon is SMUs biggest fan, many people recognize him from his lobster costume. He is the life of the party and one of the happiest people you’ll ever meet. He was the student body president of SMU (Southern Methodist University). While getting his masters degree he started a campaign fighting against sexual violence on campus. After colllege he came out as gay and talks about his experience telling all his friends and family. He learned to come to a place of validation instead of seeking it from others. Ramon teaches us how one person can change the world, by jumping in and being yourself and not holding back. The world needs more people who celebrate others and makes it a happier, more exciting place!

Desi Terry is an absolutely remarkable person! A few years ago her brother committed suicide, which came as a total shock. She decided she needed to dedicate her life to the memory of her brother. Six months later, she was pregnant and having dizzy spells.  She went to the hospital to get a spinal tap for spinal meningitis. The procedure was performed incorrectly and she was paralyzed. She is still recovering from her paralysis 2 1/2 years later. We discuss how this experience motivated her to go back to school to be a social worker. She has used her unique experience with feeling pain, grief and loss to help others. She will inspire you to live your life with purpose!

Talise Dubois is an incredible human! When her mother went into Kidney failure, she quickly offered to donate her kidney. Talise and her mother were not a match for the donation, but she was able to donate to a kidney exchange. This heroic act saved her mothers life!  We discuss the importance of organ donation and the unexpected challenges that donors go through. Talise shares about some life changing experiences she has had when others have gone out of their way to help after her best friend died. What better time than during this crazy coronavirus epidemic for us to be reminded to show a little more love and kindness to those around us.

This week on the podcast I interviewed the charming Elsa Dubois. Elsa is from the Philippines, and she shares her experience growing up in a third-world country. Her education meant everything to her, and taught her to be grateful for everything she has. Recently, her kidneys failed and she had to be put on dialysis. She learned that she would need a kidney, which often takes as many as 5 years to receive. She didn’t have that kind of time, and none of her family members were matches for her blood type. Her daughter courageously decided to donate her kidney so that her mother could quickly receive a kidney.  It’s a story of love for a daughter and mother and brings new meaning to the phrase “giving of yourself.”

Olivia Luke is an amazing mother and wife. Her husband is a marine and was overseas when she delivered their first child. She shares her experience being a military wife and the sweet reunion they had when her husband Blake returned. She teaches us to be strong, and how friends and family can pull us through.

At age 70, Dan Coffman has lived a full life. He takes us through the historical and personal events that have shaped him from the Cuban missile crisis to dealing with his father’s alcohol addiction to divorce.  We discuss JFK's assassination, his part in the Vietnam war and how his friends and neighbors who sat by him in class never came home. We discuss why his marriage fell apart, and how he was able to finally forgive his alcoholic father for abandoning their family. Major world events and personal trials have a big affect on all our lives, but Dan shares what has helped him to live a happy, purposeful life. Dan teaches us that people are what make us the happiest, not jobs, money or things.

Shannon Hood made a New Years’ resolution to write a letter every day in 2019. She has found that our over-emphasis on the digital world has made communication less personal. She feels that hand written letters help us express to people how much they really mean to us. She shares her experiences reconnecting with important people in her life and how her resolution impacted others with just a few minutes per day.

Today on the podcast I interview Viktor Vajda, one of the top Iron Man athletes in the US. Viktor is Hungarian and shares about his experience growing up in different parts of Europe and his challenges moving to the US as a teenager. He talks about how he started running and what it takes to compete in Iron Man’s. This year he had the opportunity to compete at the world competition in Hawaii. He is humble and kind and one of the most genuine people you will ever meet. He shares his no regret attitude and teaches us to live life with intention and not let anything get in the way of accomplishing your dreams.

Today on the podcast I interview one of my dearest friends, Catalina Le Blanc, about her experience with postpartum depression. She is motivating and dynamic and charming. She grew up in Chile and was living in New York City away from family, friends and a support system when she went through this experience. She encourages mothers to get help right away and not be ashamed of their feelings. Cata is a devout catholic and she shares how much her faith has helped her in her journey.

Today on the podcast I have Audrey Landheim who shares her journey and fight against anorexia. She was worried about her appearance as early as 4th grade. When her extreme dieting and exercise got out of control in high school, she had to be hospitalized. She talks about her journey to recovery and her struggle with food. We discuss how she overcame this disorder and how she has become stronger and more confident because of what she’s been through.

Today on the podcast I have the vibrant, lovely Sabrena Suite-Mangum. She is a writer, yoga instructor and leads a non-profit organization called Pillows for Prisoners. She is full of passion and her love for all people is contagious. On the podcast we discuss the prison system and how difficult it is for inmates and families to get basic necessities. We also discuss a sexual assault that lead her sister to a life of drugs and alcohol that ended in her being sent to Jail.  Sabrena shares a few of her own experiences with sexual assault. Our interview gave me a new outlook on helping those that don't seem quite as deserving of love and compassion, I hope it does the same for you. If you would like to learn more about Sabrena's organization go to https://pillowsforprisoners.org/

Today my amazing cousin Ashleigh Hedin joins me on the podcast. She is vivacious, beautiful and kind. Her first husband was addicted to drugs, and she did everything she could to try to help him recover. She went on a roller coaster with him and learned a lot about recovery. She teaches us about how recovery is very personal. She hasn’t had an easy life but her experiences have left her more wise and compassionate towards others. She is a licensed social worker and lives her life with intention and compassion for others. She teaches us how heartache can actually bring us more joy in the end.

Today Scott Bostwick joins me on the podcast to discuss loss, grief and dating as a single parent. After 8 years of marriage, his wife Meg passed away suddenly from cancer. She was 26 weeks pregnant with their second child when she was diagnosed, and was able to deliver the baby on life support. He shares his experience being a single dad and taking care of his girls. We also discuss his experience dating and marrying his second wife, Amber. Scott’s advice for his younger self was to live in the present, as you never know how much time you really have with your loved ones.

Today Valentina Di Giovanni joins me on the podcast to discuss how Buddhism and meditation helped her family heal from a tragic accident. Valentina is from Rome and currently lives in London with her husband Max and their three children. Several years ago, Valentina and Max decided to go on one last trip to Australia before settling down to start a family. While there, Max was involved in a surfing accident. He nearly drowned, and ended up being paralyzed. We discuss how Valentina and Max began meditating to help with healing, about their conversion to Buddhism, and their miracle wedding where Max was able get out of the wheelchair and walk down the aisle. Valentina emanates peace and love and teaches us how we can be more mindful and present in our lives.

Today Julia Shin joins me on the podcast to discuss her experience immigrating to several countries around the world. She was born in South Korea, and has lived in Spain, Australia, Philadelphia, Chicago, Mexico City and...Kentucky.   She is fluent in Korean, English and Spanish. We discuss how she has stayed true to her Korean roots while adopting pieces of other cultures and became her own person.  She talks about her experience with discrimination and racism in school and she shares an experience of  how her classmates stood up for her when a girl called her a racist name. Even though she was born in Korea, she feels like a stranger when she visits her own country.  Julia gives advice on how to make friends, adjust to new cultures and help immigrants feel accepted in our own country.

Today Kelsey Flores joins me on the podcast to discuss her experience overcoming mental & physical disability in her family and discrimination and how she leaned on her relationship with God throughout these challenges. While Kelsey was living in Italy doing a service mission in her early 20's, her father became very ill. He was always the life of the party, traveling all over the world for work and bringing people together. When she returned home, her dad had changed both physically and mentally all because of an E. coli infection. We discuss how this changed her family and her perspective on life. Kelsey talks about her relationship with God and how he has led her on her current path. She recently graduated from law school and interviewed for over 100 positions before landing her dream job in Washington DC. She discusses dealing with discouragement and discrimination throughout the process.

Today my guest is Quan Thompson. Quan grew up in California and Las Vegas. His mother was a drug dealer and his father wasn't in the picture. Basketball saved his life, keeping him away from gangs and violence and introducing him to his his teammate and best friend Landon. Landon’s family eventually adopted Quan. Landon's Dad, Coach Darrell, wasn't just a coach for basketball, but a life coach and the only Father Quan has ever known. We talk about his brothers murder, how he scrapped to make food for his family and how his life changed when he was in a family surrounded by love and joy. Quan encourages us to love a little more, hug people, and to take charge of your own life. He was the first person in his family to go to college and has a happy life with his new son and beautiful wife Maryann.

Today my guest is the spectacular Stephanie Mulford.  Steph has been through more in her first 30 years than many experience in their lifetimes.  We talk about her adoption, her story of finding her birth mom, her struggles of raising kids while combatting cancer, and her loss of her 3rd child.  Steph shares how she has carried by the people around her and how much love she felt through cancer.  We also discuss how her experiences have helped heal her relationships and given her so much more empathy for the people around her.