Push Diaries Podcast

Jan Fennern knows what it is like to lose someone incredibly close. She knows how hard the "firsts" can be, including holidays, and building new memories---but she has never lost her faith and hope for the goodness of the future. She is a Godly woman who was married to a strong husband who was greatly involved in the framework of who Jan IS. Come along with us as Jan shares what exactly a Grief Share is and how she got here to tell us all about it. For those of you who have lost someone close to them, you are invited to attend a Grief Share at any time. If you are a local or live near Cannon Falls, MN 55009 please consider attending the Holiday 1-Night Only Grief Share on December 7th at 6:30PM at Riverwood Community Church. If you live too far away or cannot make this Grief Share, please visit griefshare.org to find a location near you. Many thanks to Jan Fennern for her willingness to share her story in an effort to help others get through the changing tides of loss. God has given her great passion to inspire many. Please visit patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast if you would like to support the show or sponsor this episode. Visit pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/griefsharewithjan for more information about the episode, to see photos, and be connected with resources.

The Social Security Administration has benefits for people out of work and disabled. Tess shares her personal journey surrounding Social Security Disability and covers everything you wanted to know regarding: The Basics About Disability Benefits, SSA's Ticket to Work Program, What Are the Rules for Working While on Social Security Disability? What Is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for Social Security Disability Purposes? Social Security Disability Trial Work Period, EPE, Work Related Expenses, and Expedited Reinstatement and SO much more! Sometimes doing the brave or challenging thing is scary. Knowing what to expect relieves a lot of anxiety. I hope this episode brings information and clarity to your ears that encourages you to take the next step toward personal growth and independence if it is the right decision for you. Be sure to search for resources in your local community to help you with the decision of working again. Please visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/tessisgoingbacktowork to learn more and be connected with resources discussed in this episode.#ssdi #ssa #ssi #disability #socialsecuritydisability #socialsecurityadministration #tickettowork #employmentprogram #vocationalrehabilitation #employmentcounselor #gobacktowork #backtowork #faith #growth #substantialgainfulactivity #sga #disabled #benefits #competitivework

Hey, Everyone! In Michigan, it feels like summer finally! The sun and hot weather is welcomed here. April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Nearly half a million people every year are victims of sexual assault or rape in the United States. These same people are at higher risk of becoming addicted to substances and struggle with post traumatic stress disorder. Laura comes on the podcast to discuss her experience with these confusing and sad statistics/issues that have directly impacted her life. Please be aware that this episode may be triggering for some listeners as we hear graphic depictions of abuse. No kids allowed. Laura is such a wise and resilient woman who has grown so much from her greatest hurts and shame. Laura shares what it was like growing up in a Hispanic Catholic family, and how she has learned to cope through music. It is a great conversation filled with hope, inspiration, and overcoming. I am so grateful to her for coming on the podcast! Check out her Instagram pages for updates, music, and her book release @lauramarieinwords @lauramariemusic or on Twitter. Thank you so very much for your bravery, Laura!I want to hear YOUR story. Please consider contacting me and sharing your story of resilience. We have a big following---you never know who you could inspire during their darkest days. You are never alone. Come along with us and then check back soon for more content. Please review Push Diaries Podcast on iTunes so more people can find it. Visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com/laura to learn more about this episode and see resources that go along with the topics discussed. Checkout www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to become a sustaining member of the show. Every penny is GREATLY appreciated. Thank you so much! I hope you have been enjoying these conversations. Many thanks for sharing my show with a friend! Peace until next time! -- Host Tess#substanceabuse #depression #sexualassault #rape #ptsd #sexualabuse #childabuse #childsexualabuse #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #sexualassaultawarenessmonth #awareness #hispanic #catholic #assimilate #parenthood #masterbation #spirituality #religion #nakedpastor #godlovesyou #jesuslovesyou #lauramariemusic #lauramarieinwords #raiin #suicide #hashimotos #thepoisonwoodbible #podcast #newepisode

Kim is a mom who knows what it is like to celebrate the birth of a child and morn the loss of another. She has struggled with unhealthy relationships in the past that had put her in a dark place. She pulled herself out of crippling suicidal ideation and wants to share her story. Kim wants her story to show you that when you don’t give up and reclaim faith in God, life is always worth living and motherhood is always worth doing. Stay tuned for Kim’s 2nd episode in the future where she will discuss her joy of donating an organ to someone she loves very much. If you or someone you love are contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or contact your doctor immediately to be connected with resources that will help you through. You are not alone. Please visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/kim to see Kim’s photos and be connected with resources that may help you. If you would like to support the show, please visit www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast and get access to exclusive content. Stay tuned for more episodes about Tyler and I there. Have a beautiful weekend. Your Host, Tess ~ This episode is dedicated to Kim’s son Vladimir Xavier and anyone listening who is still here today who has overcome suicidal thoughts. You are never alone. Thank you so much for listening!

My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes back on the podcast for Part 2 to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual. Challenge yourself a bit by listening to this episode and explore the ways in which you may be distorting your thoughts. Be sure to head back and listen to Part 1. Self reflection is an important part of overcoming. This episode is meant to bring enlightenment on this journey we call life and improve your relationships! To learn more about cognitive distortions, check out the following webpage: https://psychcentral.com/lib/15-common-cognitive-distortions/ To see how the experts would advise you to fix your cognitive distortions visit this webpage: https://psychcentral.com/lib/fixing-cognitive-distortions/ Happy Happy Friday, Everyone! I want to hear YOUR story. Please consider contacting me and sharing your story of resilience. We have a big following---you never know who you could inspire during their darkest days. Be sure to check on your happy friends. Come along with us and then check back soon for more content. Please review my show on iTunes so more people can find it. Visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com to learn more about my show and www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to become a sustaining member of the show. Every penny is GREATLY appreciated. Thank you so much! I hope you have been enjoying these conversations. Many thanks for sharing my show with a friend! Peace until next time, your host Tess#cognitivedistortions #false #intrusivethoughts #socialwork #counselor #therapy #mentalhealth #4agreements #fouragreements #itsnotmeitsyou #itsmenotyou #distorted #world #thinking #thoughts #survivor #cancer #wheelchair #disability #advocate #freedom #free #thinkpositive #overcome #resilience #equality #newpodcast #inspiration #jesus #goldenrule #commandments #bekind #kindness #april #podcast #patreon #podernfamily #psychology #relationships

My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes on the podcast again to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual. Challenge yourself a bit by listening to this episode and explore the ways in which you may be distorting your thoughts. Self reflection is an important part of overcoming. This episode is meant to bring enlightenment on this journey we call life and improve your relationships! To learn more about cognitive distortions, check out the following webpage: https://psychcentral.com/lib/15-common-cognitive-distortions/ To see how the experts would advise you to fix your cognitive distortions visit this webpage: https://psychcentral.com/lib/fixing-cognitive-distortions/ Happy Happy Weekend, Everyone! I want to hear YOUR story. Please consider contacting me and sharing your story of resilience. We have a big following---you never know who you could inspire during their darkest days. Be sure to check on your happy friends. Come along with us and then check back soon for more content. Please review my show on iTunes so more people can find it. Visit www.pushdiariespodcast.com to learn more about my show and www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to become a sustaining member of the show. Every penny is GREATLY appreciated. Thank you so much! I hope you have been enjoying these conversations. Many thanks for sharing my show with a friend! Peace until next time, - your host Tess#cognitivedistortions #false #intrusivethoughts #socialwork #counselor #therapy #mentalhealth #4agreements #fouragreements #itsnotmeitsyou #itsmenotyou #distorted #world #thinking #thoughts #survivor #cancer #wheelchair #disability #advocate #freedom #free #thinkpositive #overcome #resilience #equality #newpodcast #inspiration #jesus #goldenrule #commandments #bekind #kindness #april #podcast #patreon #podernfamily #psychology #relationships

KaLee is my previous colleague from Knute Nelson Hospice of Alexandria, MN. We worked together 3 wonderful-yet short months in 2014. I was hired to be Knute Nelson's Lead Social Worker and was absolutely thriving in my job when I recieved a horrible diagnosis of disease and would soon face the possibilities of death myself. My Chondroblastic Osteosarcoma would kill me if I didn't fight it. Before death, commonly comes diseases. How does someone navigate those chaotic waters? KaLee is super passionate about her career in hospice and has since added a title of Director to her already distinct role as a Registered Nurse. Death is scary to navigate but easier to handle with nurses like her. I always admired her determination and confident care as she worked intently with her patients and their families. She answered every question no matter how long it took. The quality of her professional values made my job as a social worker so incredibly enriched. If it weren't for cancer, I believe I would be working alongside her still today. Although life has had different plans for me, I know her message about hospice will be incredibly beneficial to all of you. We discuss lots of topics surrounding hospice work and what services are offered during hospice, what legal documents you should have completed no matter your age, and things to expect when a loved one approaches their deathbed. Don't make your family members guess your wishes when your guidance is needed but not easily communicated. More often than necessary time takes over and leaves family members feeling lost. We must feel empowered to be responsible for our time coming to an unexpected close---because death can knock at our door when you or your loved ones have no absolute clue it is near. Consider being an organ donor. Be in control of your future. It is a fabulous way we can love ourselves and our loved ones. There is some comfort in knowing what comes with death. We hope this episode offers a clear perspective on this topic so it is less shocking when death comes your way--- bringing healthier coping in your future. This episode releases today also! We hope you have a fabulous rest of your month, safe weekend, reflective Passover, and blessed Easter. There is so much to be grateful for and lots to be hopeful about. -Tesswww.pushdiariespodcast.comPlease consider supporting the show at www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast so I can continue bringing inspirational stories of resilience and diaries of vulnerability to your ears! Seriously, thank you to all of my supporters! You know who you are. Having my podcast sustained by your love is such a gift. I love these diaries. Your support of this show is greatly appreciated. -Tess

Last year was tough on everyone. How are you focusing on slowing down and taking care of yourself? Then, how do we care for our kids or family members? Self pity is human nature. So is sadness in difficult times. Grace is important. Shelby is back to talk to us about overcoming addiction, creating healthy habits, and making daily rituals. Hope this episodes find you doing well. Be sure to find some stillness this weekend or whatever your soul needs to be well cared for! One day at a time. Spring is springing and that makes me pretty happy!Be sure to checkout more information about this episode at www.pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/shelbyisbackandtalksaboutselfcare#podcast #newepisode #newpodcastepisode #selfcare #selflove #selfawareness #thealchemist #selfesteem #aa #thebigbook #gratitude #intention #deepbreaths #eathealthy #pray #spiritual #eachdayanewbeginning #paulocohello #vibratehigherdaily #trysomethingnew #givegrace #receivelove #receivegrace #givelove #vulnerability

Episode 34: Life, Cancer, Etc. with Heidi Bragg@lifecanceretc Heidi Bragg had me on her podcast (Life, Cancer, Etc) to hear more about my story with cancer and my decision to become paralyzed and a wheelchair user but survive. It was an awesome interview. She shares more about her story too but be sure to go back to her first episodes and hear it from her directly as there is so much goodness in her podcast surrounding cancer and overcoming. I'm so impressed with Heidi's mission and my first podcast collaboration. So looking forward to more conversations with her down the road. Check the interview out on her podcast or check back later today and it will also be posted here on mine. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/8081523 or www.pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/heidi or wherever you listen to podcasts. Support Push Diaries Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast Thank you! Happy Friday everyone!!!New episode releasing today!!! Thankful to Heidi. A special treat for all you wonderful listeners.Thanks to all of you who listen week after week to this content. You are not alone. You are stronger than you realize. God is with you. You got this!#newpodcast #jesus #survivor #resilience #spinalcordinjury #depression #keeppushing #suicideprevention #podernfamily #podcastproduction #patreon #paralyzed #wheelchair #cancersurvivor #3xcancersurvivor #chondroblasticosteosarcoma #disability #disabilityrights #medicare #equalityforall #inspiring #podcast #keephoping #yougotthis #lookingforsponsors #sponsor #sponsorme #thankful #rss #rsssubscribers #podcast

Anne is the 3rd eldest child her parents decided to adopt but never had a relationship with her birth parents. She had an excellent experience growing up with her adoptive family. The example of healthy relationships her parents so carefully displayed is a major catalyst to why she is now dreaming about her own. Anne is finally at a point in life where she and her husband Jeff want to have children. Come along with me to hear all about how Anne has chosen to overcome difficult realizations that came with family planning... Ouch! Not to mention---shots hurt! As we know, families come in all shapes and sizes. Families also come to fruition in many different ways now thanks to science and medical professionals who care. How bad does Anne want to be a mom? She is ready to sacrifice easy nights on the couch watching tv with her husband for caring for another tiny human. Thanks to IVF (in vitro fertilization) this dream is now possible. Anne is one of Tess’s greatest lifelong friends. Come hang out. Anne’s journey has now just begun and we are so lucky to be able to get an inside scoop. Part 1. Online Now. Stay tuned for Part 2, etc, in the near future. Check out pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/ivflifewithanne or follow Push Diaries Podcast on Instagram/Facebook to see photos and video from her journey. Become a sustaining member (patron) of the podcast by supporting monetarily at patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast .Thank you for listening! Have a great weekend. Stayed tuned for more great content heading your way! Listen online or wherever you listen to podcasts: iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Stitcher, Audible, Google, etc. Download one of these apps in your app store to listen from your cellular device or tablet.#ivflife #ivf #resilience #adoption #bestfriend #nevergiveup #survivor #podcast #newepisode #fairfaxeggbank #eggbank #infertile #plannedparenthood #interiordesigner #mayoclinic #mayoclinicrochester #newyork #internationalfalls #cannonfalls #woodbury #wheelchair #hope #inspiring #newpodcastalert #newepisodealert #february #familyplanning #adoptionstory #marriage

(The son of the eye doctor extraordinaire) Paul says he wants to teach his kids to fly planes but not just anyone. I tell him I want to learn, and he agrees. That is what we call Minnesota nice, folks. Come hear about how Paul got the passion for flying all because his dad loved him and wanted him to succeed. Talking to Paul was a TRIP! Check out his happenings, departures, and landings on his Instagram @mylayoverlife and on YouTube My Layover Life for a complete photo and video blog about his life. Life can be fun. Go live it! From one fellow Cannon Fallsian to another, Thank you, Paul! Many thanks to the incredible patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast supporters. Could not do this incredible work of storytelling without you! Thank you. Be sure to go check out and support https://www.change30.org/ to learn more about Paul's mission in the Russian orphanage. Check out more photos and links from the episode at pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/mylayoverlifewithpaulholte As usual, see you soon, and THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! Have a blessed weekend, everyone. I hope this episode brings you joy.

In 2015 my family applied to Helping Paws to get me a service dog. I am so blessed that they had confidence in the organization and myself to find an excellent match that would greatly impact my recovery after cancer and my ever changing independence. Eileen started helping paws 35 years ago and it was from that very moment on that God started working in the Cherwinka's life and mine. Since those many years ago, Helping Paws and it's incredible foster families are changing lives across the united states and encouraging a life of joy, companionship, and independence. Come hang out with these special guests and hear about how Macy has helped me....AND all about the immense gift Dawn and Brian have given me. I am so grateful to this organization. I am very proud of this episode. Please be sure to check out www.pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/macy to see photos, links, and videos. Be sure to visit www.helpingpaws.org to check out the organization, volunteer opportunities, make a donation, apply to be a foster trainer, or apply to get a dog. Call 952-988-9359 to speak with them directly. Many thanks to all of my patreon supporters who sustain the mission of my show in sharing resilience with the world. I couldn't do it without your encouragement and support! If you want to support the show and become a sustaining member at low cost to you, visit www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast Thank you for listening! Please like the podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and subscribe on YouTube. #service #servicedog #servicedogsofinstagram #helpingpaws #helpingpawsservicedog #dogtraining #wheelchair #paralysis #paralyzed #dog #goldenretriever #thebestgift #podcast #newepisode #podcastalert #patreon #thankyou #fosterdog #fosterdogsofinstagram #certified #independent #teamwork #team #matching #nevergiveup #yougotthis #minnesota #veteranservicedog #ptsddogs #firstresponders #veterans #firstrespondersservicedog

"The True Invitation of this life is to discover the truth of who you are. And that's the only thing that will set us Free. Because the truth of who you are is incomparable to any image you have of yourself." - Anand Mehrotra . "Happiness and Kindness need no reason at all.” - Buddhist Proverb. “The key is to Allow. We become aware first, then allow ourselves to feel. By allowing, we are already Expanding our awareness. We will see that we do not needto escape or strategize out of a circumstance or feeling... That first. The next steps, if there are any to be had, will be more clear.” - Adam Schomer www.pushdiariespodcast.com www.patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast

Makenzie and Devon were enjoying a beautiful Sunday when the unthinkable happened. Their motorcycle lost control and sent them flying. Kenz was able to use her Apple watch to call for an ambulance before losing consciousness as her body was bleeding out in a ditch at rapid speed. Thankfully, they are both alive and well but not without challenges. Relearning basic things you were taught as a child and have become so used to (like walking) is a traumatic yet empowering experience to live through. Come hear this incredible story of grit and determination. Never ever ever forget that, “Shit’ll buff and life is short!” -Makenzie

Hey Everyone! Thanks for being here and being so awesome. I see your encouragement and am so thankful. Dan from Dare2Tri came on the podcast to talk about his organization he created with 2 friends, Karrie and Melissa. Be sure to head back to 'Episode 12: Melissa' to hear her incredible story of resilience as well. Dare2tri has granted me access to triathlon while helping me become more comfortable with adaptive sports with a disabled body. It is a life-changing organization for people with versatile abilities of all ranges that should get all the love and shout-outs! I can't wait to race more throughout my lifetime with Dare2Tri and continue to honor the legacy of my dear friend Elizabeth Gauthier who introduced it to me. Check it out! Consider being a sponsor of Dare2Tri any time during the year. Your money will go a long way. Happy Holidays. #onlinenow #adaptivesports #disability #community #paratriathlon #dare2tri #newpodcast #podernfamily #newepisode #sponsorme #lookingforsponsors #donatetoday #sports #mentalhealth #podcastproduction #podcastrelease #spotifypodcast #comingsoon #disabilityadvocate #relay #paralympian2024 #triathlon #marathon #medicine #goodness #apple #itunes #stitcher #amazon

We wanted to bring you some joy this holiday season with some light hearted fun. Come talk the holidays with Tess, Ty, and Heather on this uplifting episode! Head back to Episode 2 to hear Heather's episode and visit patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to have access to exclusive content. Be sure to visit our website to see the episodes at pushdiariespodcast.com

If you haven't listened to Part 1 and 2 with Carmen, head back to episode 22 and 23 to listen to those first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing her knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 4 coming soon where we will talk about Cognitive Distortions. Be sure to be safe and have a happy holiday, even if it looks a little different this year. Try to be p-r-e-s-e-n-t!

100 years ago, 6-year-old Ruby went to an all white school for the very first time escorted by 4 US Marshalls because there were white protesters that didn’t want her to go to public (desegregating) school. Come along on the journey as Eva from the small town of St. Charles MN shares her experience growing up, Ness from Episode 15 helps Cohost, and Host Tess talk about race relations today and how it is changing. Be sure to vote and make your voice heard. It is our civic duty to create the America we deserve. Eva hopes that by sharing her story it can inspire others to do the right thing and have important conversations around race to bridge the gap and create a more inclusive world where the color of our skin is something to be celebrated. In the year 2020, why is this so hard for people to do? Be sure to listen to those who are different from you about their experiences and the world we live in. Many thanks to Eva and Ness for being vulnerable and honest!

If you haven't listened to Part 1 with Carmen, head back 1 episode to listen to that first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing your knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 3 coming soon.

My incredible therapist has granted exclusive access on how to handle our changing beliefs as we age and go throughout life to my podcast listeners! I'm so grateful for a therapist who sees the value in sharing stories and knowledge with those who could benefit from it. Thank you for being here. I want to hear your stories! #knowledgeispower #comparison #cognitivedistortion #brenebrown #thefouragreements #guideposts #personalgrowth #bekindtoyourself #therapy #counselor #therapist #mentalhealth #wholeheartedliving #suicideprevention #survivor

Host Tess’s dad shares his experience working for Wenonah Canoe as a retired man post a career being a teacher while actually on the road with Tess! He goes into detail about when Tess was first diagnosed with a chondroblastic osteosarcoma and the immediate loss of her lower body’s ability. Billy and Tess also share memories of family travel and their favorite stops along the way. Blacktop Billy is his road name and he will be back! Stay tuned for more interviews.

Episode 20: Jeff and Barb met on an airplane 5 years ago. Little did they know, they would quickly fall in love, and become each other's family. Listen to their incredible story of resilience and overcoming despite awful run-ins with cancer. Jeff & Barb hope you feel inspired to never stop pushing and to never give up on hope. You won't want to miss this one... These 2 incredible people will leave you speechless. Plus, Barb has the best laugh. Come along with me and hear their journey. To donate to Kenzie's GoFundMe, head to https://gf.me/u/yyzupn Thank you so much for listening!

ReWalk Robotics is an incredible company that makes exoskeletons for people who can no longer walk due to complications with their health. Hear from the guru himself, Zachary Waugh, on how he became a professional with the company and a man forever changed and inspired by it. Push Diaries Podcast thanks ReWalk for letting us borrow Zach for the duration of this episode! Many many many thanks to Zach for sharing all of his passion, insight, and time with us! It is physical therapists and engineers like him who make the accessibility and understanding of this technology readily available! Thank you! We will also be interviewing Dan with Dare2Tri, and Kelly from the Kelly Brush Foundation to learn more about their organizations; and how they are encouraging the disability community to stay active regardless of physical restrictions. Stay tuned for Jeff & Barb: Episode 20, releasing THIS weekend. These are stories you don't want to miss. Thank you so much for listening! Be sure to consider supporting the show while accessing exclusive content at patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast not found anywhere else. Check out the podcast's previous episodes, photos and the show notes on our website at pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/zachforrewalk

Please be aware that adult language is used in the making of this episode. Shield tiny ears. Jessie comes on the podcast to chat again since Episode 7 to catch up about life and some other unscripted fun! We discuss the podcast, how I edit/interview, Jessie's work, things that have been on our minds lately, quarantine craze, our immune system, documentaries, our new homes, and so much more! Come hang out with us on this beautiful sun shiny day! We are so happy to have you be a part of the conversation. Keep on pushing! Even if your brain feels fried... never forget you've got a friend in Jess & Tess!Find a local support group near you for substance abuse at Alcoholics Anonymous. We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.This has been a Push Diaries Podcast.I’m creating a collection of stories showcasing resilient people who overcome unimaginable hardships while finding beauty in the ups and downs of life. Every moment is significant. Please visit our Patreon to support the show and have access to exclusive content.This is your podcast too. I want to hear your stories. Email me at pushdiariespodcast@gmail.com.Thank you so much for listening!Be sure to head to pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/jessandtess2 to check out the documentaries we referred to in this episode and more!

Lily is one of Host Tess’s best friends from high school who has been serving the public since before she graduated high school. Lily is the 2nd child born out of 5 and has always had a passion for taking care of those around her. Lily’s first job was a lifeguard for the community pool, and her first schooling was for emergency medical training (EMT). She currently works as a Fire Control-man for the Norfolk Virginia Naval Base, the largest naval base in the country. Her flavor is Tomahawk missiles, integrity, faith, and family. Come along with us as Lily speaks honestly about the Navy, boot camp, deployments, suicide prevention, port of entry, and traveling the world with her ship full of sailors to keep our lands and seas safe.Find a local support group near you for substance abuse at Alcoholics Anonymous. We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.This has been a Push Diaries Podcast.I’m creating a collection of stories showcasing resilient people who overcome unimaginable hardships while finding beauty in the ups and downs of life. Every moment is significant. Please visit our Patreon to support the show and have access to exclusive content.This is your podcast too. I want to hear your stories. Email me at pushdiariespodcast@gmail.com.Thank you so much for listening!

Erica fell in love with running and her husband Joe from Hastings Minnesota when she was in her early 20s. They wanted to start a family but had no idea what challenges would be ahead of them before growing their family. Erica was ecstatic and shocked when she peed on a stick and found out she was pregnant. Joe was surprised it happened so fast and couldn't wait to be a daddy. Little did they know, they would be brought through a terrible loss and diagnosed with a terrifying condition before their family would expand. Come along with us to hear Erica's story of pregnancy, loss, joy, and resilience. Another incredible woman from good old Cannon Falls! You don't want to miss her story.

Manasseh is the director and creator of Hope Fuse in Rochester, MN, which instills hope in at-risk youth while providing diverse mentor-ship. Success has not come to him easily but with the confidence from excellent parents, structure from sports with hard work, and the faith to do good has got him here. He has now devoted his life as a professional, friend, and father to mentor those who need it most while never giving up. There were numerous people who tried to take him down because of what made him who he was---and thank God, there were that many more people in his corner helping him never forget that giving up or changing was not a viable option. Thank you, Ness, for letting us have a glimpse into your life story and mission. What you are doing is priceless and limitless. We are with you all the way.

Mike Mac is a Music Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Songwriter. He currently lives, works, and plays in a suburb near LA. Mike had to learn at a young age how to be resilient over his physical situation and lean into his mental and emotional strength. His story is nothing short of incredible, and I am so excited for you to hear his great knowledge on how he gets through life's trials. Can't stop him.

Ashlin and Josiah met and wrestled with what Christ wanted for them individually before joining them together in holy union. Their journey through self-worth, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty of health is an intimate one we are blessed to witness. Ashlin and Josiah want you to know you are loved by God no matter where you are at in life, no matter what you have done, or are doing. He loves you.

Melissa Stockwell went to Baghdad when she was 24 years old and lost her leg to a roadside bomb. This is a bonus episode for the 4th of July. Have a lovely weekend everyone! Be sure to head to pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/melissa to learn more and get connected. Thank you so much for listening!

Tasha Schuh broke her neck after a horrific fall during a school play when she was only 16. Today she helps students and people of all ages learn about resiliency. She is the author of 2 books and is a mentor in the disability community. Come along with us and be a part of the conversation with Tasha and Host Tess.

Kelsey dove into a 3 foot lake in a lapsed-reality split-second decision that forever changed her life. She traveled all over the country to find the answers around healing and paralysis. PBS is featuring her documentary about her journey on their networks. SUBMERGED, COMING SOON. Her story is incredible, come listen to her experience.

"There is a dynamic and surging movement to revitalize Ojibwe and other indigenous languages. Work like this is a team effort with many, many contributors—language warriors every one of them. I am truly humbled, honored, and inspired to a part of the team. Miigwech gakina giinawaa anokiitameg gidinwewininaan!" -Anton

Shelby woke up a morning after drinking and had no idea how she got there or why she was in a hospital. Purchase The Big Book to start overcoming today. Time is precious but most importantly---yours. Be sure to check pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/shelby to see the links, story, and photos from the podcast. Thank you for listening! Support the show at Patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast

JESSIE IS A CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITIONIST & SHE IS TESS' FRIEND! COME HANG OUT! **PLEASE BE AWARE THAT SOME ADULT LANGUAGE IS USED.** Released Spring 5/1/20, Recorded Jan. 2020

Come listen to Episode 6! Ashlan's story of her dad's cancer journey, marriage, finding her faith, having kids, and coming to the decision with her husband Matt to adopt is nothing short of inspiring. Welcome to the family, Isaiah! If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum depression.org visit the website for a helpline or feel free to reach out to Ashlan! Thank you for listening! I want to hear your stories. -Tess, Producer, Push Diaries Podcast

The Team Abri Foundation started around 2015 when Nikkole and Abri, a mother and daughter facing childhood cancer, limb salvage surgery, and amputation decided to help other families facing the same immense difficulty. They believe hugely in trusting God to provide them and other families strength while going through similar heartbreaks. Join this 40,000 member team today! Support on Venmo TODAY

Mimi Lemay is an advocate, woman of faith, mother, strong believer in freedom, strength, truth, and love, but most of all a voice for the LGBTQ community.

Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual independence." -David Hayward of New Brunswick, Canada

Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual independence." -David Hayward of New Brunswick, Canada

Annette Ross was featured on the recent HBO documentary called Any One of Us. She was paralyzed by an epidural gone wrong. This has been a Push Diaries Podcast. I’m creating a collection of stories showcasing resilient people who overcome unimaginable hardships while finding beauty in the ups and downs of life. Every moment is significant. Please visit our website at pushdiariespodcast.com to see our mission and learn more about the guests. This is your podcast too. I want to hear your stories. Email me at pushdiariespodcast@gmail.com. Thank you so much for listening.