Shine A Light

Robin has a passion for self care and wellness, and she is thrilled to share her passion with all of you! Robin grew up in Detroit and learned about healthy eating and exercise from her aunt. But she still struggled with body image and negative self talk. After college, Robin really began to embrace wellness in a whole new way. She has tried many different activities, from singing to meditation, and she has a lot of really great tips for everyone listening. You can follow Robin on Instagram at Balance_Care --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Preston has been sober for 18 years. He battled with a drug and alcohol addiction for most of his teenage years. On this episode, Preston talks to me about his addiction, how he finally realized that he had a problem, and how he got help. Plus, learn how Preston has started to help other people who have addiction and mental health issues. Preston also talks about why he chooses to share his story. This is a jam packed episode full of great information and honest conversation. Check out Preston's podcast right here on Anchor- The High Cost of Anonymity. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The death and loss of a child is frequently called the ultimate tragedy. Kjerstin and her husband lost their son Charlie when he was just 23 months old. On this episode, Kjerstin opens up to me about her grief, about how the loss of Charlie impacted their older son, and could potentially impact their daughter, whom Kjerstin was pregnant with at the time Charlie passed away. She also shares how people in her life supported her, and, how she and her family have begun helping other bereaved families. The full episode is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Anchor. Check out the work Kjerstin is doing here: https://www.facebook.com/Charlies-Guys-507921142937056/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Aubrie is a wife, a mother, a teacher, and a photographer. She's also the survivor of stroke. It's not very common for someone in their late twenties to suffer a stroke. In fact, only 10% of the US population will suffer a stroke under the age of 45. Aubrie is in the 10%. She shares her experience of having a stroke and all that came with it afterwards- including the loneliness that can occur as you struggle to find a community of people who get it. Aubrie is happily sharing an update that since recording this episode, her headaches have seen great improvement!

Kari is the Assistant Principal at a high school. She's also a mom of two teenage boys and a fitness instructor. Kari talks to me about social media, bullying, e-cigarettes, and many more issues that are prevalent in high school today. She also shares how all of this impacts the way she parents, AND how she balances all of it! Full episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts.

Lindsey Robinson got involved in a breast cancer walk over 5 years ago. Over time, her involvement evolved from being a walk participant to helping plan the walk. The cause became even more important to her when her grandma was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lindsey talks to me about how she got involved, why it's important to take action on a cause you care about. We also talked wellness, hospice, and lots of other topics! If you're local to Michigan, Lindsey wants you to join her at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Mt. Clemens on October 26th. If you're not local, there is likely a walk near you! Check cancer.org for dates.

Reena is the owner and director of the Spark Center for Autism, which provides services for children ages 18 months- 10 years old who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. On this episode, Reena helps define autism, talks through common misconceptions, and provides insight on how to support individuals with autism, as well as the caregivers/family members. She also talks through advocacy, and how vital is to ensure we are providing adequate services to those who have been diagnosed with autism. Reena recommends checking out the Autism Alliance of Michigan, the book Let Me Hear Your Voice, and Ron Sandison, an author and public speaker. To learn more about the Spark Center for Autism, check out their website: http://www.sparkcenterforautism.com/

Riley was born with light perception blindness. When she was in high school, her brothers tricked her into playing a video game (Mortal Combat) and even though she couldn't see, she was determined to beat them. Years later, Riley's interest in gaming peaked when she got an IPhone. Soon after, she became an advocate for people with disabilities to be able to play games just as those without disabilities are able to. Riley is on a mission to educate game developers and the general public about this topic. I learned so much from talking to Riley and I know that you will, too! Riley is on Twitter at @Accessibility4Gamers and has a podcast called The A4G Podcast.

Julian Goodson and his wife have fostered 18 kids in 7 years. Julian has built his life around helping teengers who need mentors. He talked to me about what foster care is, what happens when kids "age out", the goals of foster care, and how his family has evolved over the years. He also talks about what it takes to be a foster parent, and how they can be supported by their family and friends. I learned SO much from talking to Julian and I know that you will, too. Check out Julian's book, Thoughts of a Foster Dad to learn even more. You can find the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts.

Jason grew up in a small town in Georgia. When his classmates found out that Jason was gay, he was bullied. On this episode, he shares what he went through, and how he overcame that. He also talks about his faith, and opens up about another recent incident with homophobia. He also tells listeners how straight allies can support the LGBTQ community. And, because we're both lovers of music, we may have gone on a tangent about some of our favorite artists/concerts. Sorry about that, but I kept it in because Jason finds music to be very healing and a big part of his story! You can follow Jason on Twitter at @jas0nbrown and Instagram at @jasonnbrown .

Content Creator. Social Media Influencer. These are two of the most up and coming professions. And yes, they are a "real job" and they take hard work, time, and dedication. I don't know that we could have predicted that posting photos and captions on Instagram could be something you could make money off of, but in 2019, it's incredibly common. Oh, and it's also NOT easy. It may look glamorous but there is a lot that goes into the photo, the caption, responding to comments and gaining followers. Minnelle Kouka and I met in high school, and once she graduated from college here in Michigan, she was off to California! I started to notice her Instagram posts and their popularity a couple of years ago. When she was in town recently to visit family, Minnelle sat down with me to chat about her life as a content creator, how she balances it with a full time job, and what goals she has for the future. We're looking at you, CHANEL. There are a couple of audio issues here and there in this episode because we recorded near a very busy road- hopefully it's not too distracting. Enjoy! And, of course, follow Minnelle on Instagram at @minnellek

Gracie was fresh out of college when she moved from Michigan, where she had lived her entire life, to Nashville Tennessee. She shares how she got the courage to make a big move, the steps she took logistically, and how she has gone after her goals since moving. If you're looking to be inspired on how to push past fear and live the life you want to live, this is the episode for you! Gracie has a slew of recommendations for you, so listen carefully! Also, she has a goal to release her own EP, including a very special song she wrote called "Matter of When".

How often have you heard someone flippantly say “I’m so OCD about that!”. I know I hear it at least once a week. But here’s the thing. Obsessive compulsive disorder is a real, debilitating mental illness that is so much more than wiping down door handles. My sister in law Sara is one of the 2.3% of the population who had obsessive compulsive disorder. She sat down with me to talk about defining OCD, sharing her own experiences and breaking stigma. Sara recommends finding a therapist that works for you! Don't be afraid to shop around. She also recommends listening to Lizzo. 

One in eight couples struggle with infertility, according to the CDC. And yet, it is still one of those topics that we don't often talk about. Instead, we ask women and couples when they are going to have children, not knowing that they may be dealing with infertility. On this episode, Maureen shares her story with infertility. Maureen and her husband Dave always imagined they would be a family of five and had not heard that infertility could be a challenge they faced. She takes us on her journey of using different treatment options, and how that can drain you emotionally, financially, and physically. Maureen and Dave now have two beautiful children, Ryan and Cara, but the journey was not easy and Maureen is here to share her story for other women and couples who may be facing the same challenge.

I was so excited to sit down with Julia and Bryce to talk about what life is like as a teenger in 2019. Although I had not met these ladies before, they were brave enough to share their struggles, their frustrations, and their fears with me. We talk about social media, the pressure that society puts on teenagers (and that they put on themselves), body image, and a whole slew of other topics. I mention this in the beginning, but I wanted to say that I did not push the girls too hard since it was my very first time meeting them. I was quite impressed with these two and I think that you will be as well. I'd love to have more conversations with teenagers, so if you're interested in being on the podcast please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/s4Bnnf7EEAG4Pdeo7

Singer/Songwriter duo Jill and Kate met while taking a music class in college, and then went on to sing backup vocals for Kelly Clarkson for six years. Eventually, the two decided to focus on their own career. Jill and Kate have written and released their own music, in addition to blogging and starting their own podcast Girls Just Pod To Have Fun. In this episode, Jill and Kate talk openly about fear, anxiety, and the importance of connecting with other people and sharing stories. This is such a good episode, Jill and Kate have amazing insight. You can find Jill and Kate on Instagram and you can follow their podcast at @GirlsJustPodToHaveFun . Trust me, you will LOVE their podcast! It's all about how life doesn't always go the way you plan it. I also created a playlist that I call "Essential Jill and Kate" if you want to check out some of their music: https://open.spotify.com/…/mcaro05/…/1gvEOj4U0OJXUrSTVIigW8… --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

I sat down with my friend Bre to talk about her decision to stay home after her son was born. We talk through misconceptions people have about stay at home moms, how to find your mom tribe, and how Bre has continued to find things to do that fuel her passion. Bre has some really great advice for women/couples who are making this decision, and she shares great insight on how to handle judgement and doubt and to do what is best for YOU. Bre recommends: Honey: A Space For Moms for those who are local to Metro Detroit. Born To Eat Book Feeding Littles E-Course Working Moms on Netflix You can find Bre on Instagram at @feedingmylittlefoodie , where she shares the healthy recipes that she makes for her 1 year old. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Jon Carolin is not only my brother, but he's the first male guest to be on Shine A Light! I was so happy to sit down with him. Jon shares his own personal experiences with bullying, and how he followed the path to become a social worker. He shares how important it is for young people to have a mentor. Jon worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Indianapolis for several years before moving back home to Detroit, where he began working for The Children's Center. On the side, Jon is also part of the 313 Ghostbusters, whose purpose is to give back to the community by attending charity events/walks. If you'd like to become a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters, you can visit: https://www.bbbs.org/ Learn more about The Children's Center here: www.thechildrenscenter.com https://www.thechildrenscenter.com/ Check out the 313 Ghostbusters on Facebook or Instagram @313Ghostbusters Jon also recommends the documentaries Reject https://www.kanopy.com/product/reject and Bully http://www.thebullyproject.com/about_film You can now leave me a voicemail on Anchor! Go to anchor.fm/megan-landry/message --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

According to womenshealth.gov, 1 in 9 mothers suffer from postpartum depression. And yet, we don't talk about it enough. In Sam's case, she struggled with severe anxiety and depression after having her daughter. In this interview, Sam opens up about dealing with postpartum depression and an increase in anxiety. She shares her lowest moments, as well as what has helped her make it through. It took Sam some time to realize that she needed to care for herself, which I think is a very common thing. Sam wants to tell you: Make yourself a priority! If you are struggling with postpartum depression. please reach out to your doctor. You can also text a free helpline 24/7: Text CONNECT to 741741 in the United States. If you're in the Metro Detroit area, Sam recommends Honey for Moms! https://www.honeyformoms.com/ PS: You can now leave me voicemails! If you have any comments. questions or suggestions you can leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/megan-landry/message --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

My friend Kristen was diagnosed with kidney disease as a baby. In this episode, she shares her experience, with a focus on her kidney transplant. Kristen's donor? Her husband! Truly this is a topic I didn't know much about, and I think it's important that we share health struggles. Thank you Kristen for sharing! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Trigger Warning: Suicide Two years ago, Molly's son Drew died of suicide. Molly sat down with me to talk about Drew, his depression, and the grief that she has felt after his death. Molly is incredibly passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health and of suicide. Molly shares how to support someone who is depressed, and how to support family members who have lost someone to suicide. Resources: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: afsp.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24/7): 800-273-8255 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 Free support anywhere in the US --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Melinda Doolittle finished third place on Season 6 of American Idol. Since then, she has released a full length album, and two EP's. Melinda has also written a memoir and appeared in two Post Modern Jukebox Videos. Melinda has toured across the country, in a show she calls The Great American Soulbook. Melinda and I discussed success, and how that can look different for everyone. Hint: It's not always about award shows and radio hits! I am very lucky to call Melinda a friend and I'm so excited to bring this interview to you all. She shares some really great insight that can be applied in nearly every situation. PS: Fun fact, Tom and I chose Melinda's "If I'm Not In Love" as our first dance song at our wedding. You can find Melinda on Instagram and Twitter (follow along while she live tweets award shows!) at @mdoolittle and on Facebook at @Melinda Doolittle. You can also check out her tour schedule at melindadoolittle.com . Trust me, if you get the opportunity to see Melinda live, you MUST! She is a powerhouse singer and performer. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

I sat down with my friend and realtor, Tanya Biernat about changing careers. Tanya shares how she went from direct sales to fundraising to Lularoe to becoming a realtor, which was her true career goal. Tanya is such a warm, kind soul and it was so fun to chat with her. She will encourage you to be brave and chase your dream! You can follow Tanya on Instagram at @tanya_biernat_real_estate_one and on Facebook at Biernat Realty Group - Real Estate One Rochester. She shares great tips for both selling and buying homes! PS: I should mention that since recording this episode, Tanya helped my husband Tom and I find our perfect first home :) --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

I sat down with my friend Abby to talk about marriage. It's not always easy, but we don't often share the hard parts. Abby shares how she has learned to look at marriage differently through her faith. Abby teaches us how to speak life into others and to drop expectations! I am super proud of Abby for sharing a vulnerable topic. Abby's suggested resources include: Cherish by Gary Chapman Surviving A Spiritually Mismatched Marriage by Lee Strobel and Leslie Strobel Vertical Marriage by David Wilson and Ann Wilson Abby has also really found her small group for Spiritually Mismatched couples at her church, Kensington Church to be very helpful. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Jasmine Kendrick lost her mom to lupus when she was just four years old. Raised by her grandmother in Detroit, Jasmine went on to attend Wayne State University where she is now studying social work and pursuing a career where she can help kids who may be in similar situations. Jasmine has some incredible insight to share. She tells you to move forward, slowly but surely. We cried, we laughed, and we could have kept talking for hours! You can follow Jasmine on Instagram at @meaningofiman Jasmine's Suggested Resources: Sandcastles Grief Support Program (Metro Detroit Area) Hospice programs National Alliance for Grieving Children Therapy! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Annie Calvaneso opens up about her eating disorder and body image challenges. Now, she is a health coach for others and specifically coaches fellow opera singers. Annie has some amazing insight and advice. She wants you to know that you are not alone and that you can find help and support! You can find Annie on Instagram at @AnnieCalvaneso Annie's Recommendations: Style Your Mind Podcast Find a health and wellness coach to help you, or following some of them on Instagram Intuitiveeating.org National Institute for Mental Health --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

This is my first minisode! I loved chatting with Ellery, age 6. I hope you enjoy this little minisode. I'd love to do more of these! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Theresa is a senior at the University Of Michigan and she wants to Shine a Light on faith as a young adult. Theresa has a lot of incredible insight to share about her faith journey, including her participation at the Catholic Church near campus and living in a house with 10 other women, all of whom are in different places when it comes to life, family, and faith. Theresa speaks about finding hope and love, and says that anything other than love is not God. You can find Theresa on Twitter at @tmw015, but she also recommends you follow some #medianuns, @SrBethanyFSP, @pursuedbytruth and @CeciliaCicone. Theresa has a lot of resources to share: How To Catholic Podcast Do Something Beautiful Podcast Certifiably Catholic Podcast Fr. Mike Schmitz on Youtube Audrey Assad (Worship musician) --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

A quick bonus episode in between interviews- I wanted to share the importance of therapy, and how to go about finding a therapist. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Kristin Perez is a math teacher, a health coach and a mama to twins! Kristin dives into self care, grief, and lots of other topics. The resources Kristin shared included: Girl Wash Your Face Podcast by Rachel Hollis, The Five Minute Journal, Headspace App, and the Calm App. You can find Kristin on Instagram at  fitmamatotwins or on Facebook at Fit Mama To Twins. My intro music was created by Brett Milcoff. Thank you, Brett! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Welcome to the Shine A Light Podcast! I wanted to give a little sneak peak into what you can expect from the podcast and to share some things about me that I feel like might come up in various episodes. I'm so glad you're here! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app