the manifesting misfit podcast

At the age of 7 Emma could see that her family's collection of hotel soaps and shampoos was out of control and had an idea to donate them to people who would use them. Little did she know that this thought would turn into an organization that would help those in need in Pittsburgh, PA and surrounding areas. Now 17 years old and a Junior in High School, Emma has decided to focus more of her donations directly to her hometown of Butler, PA.  "Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people."   follow Peace, Love and Soap on Instagram @peace.love.soap and Facebook: Peace Love and Soap Organization

UNEDITED: Stepping into something new with more unedited episodes. On this episode our host Laura talks about her absence and how she is continuing to laser focus on her goals while also not letting you down. Hoping you enjoy this episode and thank you for listening!  Interested in being a guest on a unedited episode email: laura@themanifestingmisfit.com   xx Crago

Today's episode features Joyce a co-founder of Lifted Strong and Emma, a volunteer from Santa Monica, CA. These two women have become lifelong friends and share a passion to help other women. Sitting in a local Café on a Monday morning at 10am they shared their stories and many others.    The story of Lifted Strong truly began with two women joining forces in early 2019 to establish Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO). They saw the need for education, empowerment and advocacy amongst women in the Arusha region. Living in a male dominated community, Eva and Joyce knew something had to be done to change the views women had about themselves and the gender roles that have impacted their lives. They met through NGO work and their passion to inspire, enrich, and support the economic and social development in Tanzania is the beating heart of Lifted Strong.    visit: www.liftedstrong.org 

WARNING: This episode contains discussion of suicide, suicidal thoughts and depression. Listener discretion is advised. In this solo episode I once again share two stories that reminded me of my connection with my Dad, even after his passing 27 years ago today February 16, 1995. It took me decades to realize that he was The Voice I had heard many times, guiding me, helping me and ultimately saving me when I needed it most.  If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide there is help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 and it's free and confidential. CALL 1-800-273-8255 where you or a loved one can receive support and help with prevention and crisis resources, as well as best practices for professionals in the United States. 1-800-273-8255

This week on The Manifesting Misfit Podcast Laura just talks. That's right, no editing, no guests. Short, sweet and to the point. So many changes occurred for me in the past year and I have found myself struggling to find my path, but with each day I get closer. Sometimes you just need to talk.    Focus is something we all need, along with passion and purpose and when you feel like you've lost those then it seems hopeless. How do we sit in the hopelessness, get quiet and learn something about ourselves? I am happy being single and know that my person is out there I just haven't met them yet! I am OKAY with that. For now I am focusing on me, loving me and finding who the NEW ME is. What about you?

This is a story about a dog named Honey. A rags to riches story about a dog who survived HELL and came back because of fate, dedication, love and an army of people who fight for dogs just like her every day. For the ANGELS who go the distance to save these amazing creatures, Thank YOU. To all the dog parents who knew they couldn't go another moment without them in their lives, Thank YOU. Volunteers, those who donate and anyone who has made room and love for a furry family member, Thank YOU.  Dogs are tiny fur angels, they know when we are sad, when we need reminded that everything will be okay and they are ALWAYS happy.  The story you are about to hear is one of residence, love, hope, dedication, and an army of extraordinary humans who go above and beyond in saving, rehabilitating and finding homes for so many dogs! I am beyond thrilled and honored to be interviewing Thom and Lauren to share Honey's story. To say I am a Lisa Vanderpump fan is an understatement but her dedication, commitment and foundation have most definitely raised my fandom to a whole new level!! Growing up with animals and having a rescue dog of my own has created this passion in me to share, donate, volunteer any way I can and make a difference in the lives of so many amazing dogs.  The Vanderpump Dog foundation, founded in 2016, is a 501c3 dog rescue organization based out of Los Angeles, CA. The foundation works domestically as well as internationally to help create a better world for dogs. Their varied and versatile program includes: International Legislation, Vanderpump nursery, medical initiative, international work, spay/neuter program, veterans program, homeless program as well as a senior programs. Initiatives all near and area to the hearts of everyone at Vanderpump dogs.  For ways to get involved visit: www.vanderpumpdogs.org  

Trigger Warning: Episode 15 contains sensitive subject matter of stillbirth, depression, and suicidal thoughts as told by the mother, which some people may be highly sensitive to. Due to this content listener discretion is advised.    On October 10, 2017 Brittany & Paul Safy were two, excited, first time parents eager to meet their daughter Hazel, but at 34 weeks there was no heartbeat. Brittany shares her detailed experience giving birth to her daughter and leaving the hospital without her baby. From this experience The Safy's created The Hazel Project, a blanket donation which they deliver every year to Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston Massachusetts. These blankets go to the babies stillborn and are something the parents take home with them, Brittany still sleeps with Hazel's to this day.  

Moving to Boston wasn't the plan and neither was having a baby on my own, but here we are! On my trip to Boston in the summer of 2019 I came across a bunny in Back Bay, strange, not if you live here and a man on the street who told me once he saw a turkey. A turkey?!? Find out what all this means and how we all get signs, even when we don't ask for them.    https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/  

Erin & Colleen met at a dinner party and both of them noticed an energy about each other which made a lasting impression. 4 years later they share how the beginning wasn't all rainbows and butterflies, despite what we think we know about love, these two knew there was something special, something worth fighting for. Sharing their individual stories, both very different, on how they came out to their parents and how one love, their love, has made them stronger than ever before. As this episode drops Erin and Colleen are a newly engaged couple! CONGRATULATIONS!! LOVE WINS!    https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/

At 37 weeks pregnant with her third child, a daughter, Megan talks about her dream job as a SoulCycle Instructor and how since leaving the company has reflected on the strength that got her through so many moments within and out of those 4 walls. Now she will use her strength to birth her daughter at home after two hospital births. Daughter of first generation parents who taught her to work hard and to be proud of her heritage, raising her sons to be bold, strong, loving and fierce warriors. She wants to experience her daughter's birth in a way she never has before. Megan resides in Whittier, CA with her Husband Manny, sons Koa & Lake and soon a daughter to be named Margaux Wolf.   https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/

I had a thought last week, if you could describe your best day what would it be? It's a hard one I know, but it can change depending on where you are and what your goals are. In this episode I share my best day memory, I talk about my continued healing from my breakup, and while my heart may not be totally healed I am moving forward, and my plans on becoming a single mom. Knowledge is power and I am a powerful BadA$$ Woman!    www.themanifestingmisfit.com

After graduating from UCLA Charles moved to NYC to pursue his dream of performing, but then COVID-19 happened and life suddenly brought him back to Boston. Feeling really fortunate to have a supportive family he took to the streets of the South End of Boston to perform as Betti Bottom. Enjoy Episode 10 as he discusses the impact his performing has done for building community, raising awareness for causes he's passionate about, as well as funds for organizations, such as: The Okra Project. Enjoy!

Moving to LA to pursue a career in acting Claire soon realized the universe had other plans. Known as The Heartbreak Coach, Claire helps women stop wanting Mr. or Ms. wrong back.  She hosts her own podcast “How To Stop Wanting Him Back” and she is the resident heartbreak coach for Kourtney Kardashian's lifestyle site Poosh.com . Go To Claire's website: https://clairetheheartbreakcoach.com/ to follow her amazing journey to becoming The QUEEN OF HEARTBREAK COACHING. 

VIVA LAS VEGAS!! This week it's just me, your host Laura, and i'll be sharing the story fo that time I was a Las Vegas Showgirl. JUBILEE! was my first professional dance job and moving from a small town in Western PA to Las Vegas was everything you've ever imagined and more. Just a taste...ENJOY!     https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/

Kamelle's story begins in a small town outside of Houston Texas, Huntsville, where from a young age he felt the discrimination and racism for his brown skin. He always knew he had a voice that needed to be heard because he was raised to be PROUD of his voice by his Mother, the most important opinion there is in a little boy's life. Once he realized he was gay he stepped up to his voice even more and used his experience turned into purpose to start PROFOUNDations: a 501c3 non-profit based our of SF, California, to spark a light into the hearts of underserved LGBTQIA+ youth of color. He also shares how he is LUCKY to have a Mama like that and a college education. Despite anyone who made him feel small or not important, she was the voice that helped him amplify his own voice.   https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/

Growing up in Indiana Nick didn't fully understand that he was gay until well into high school and being bullied didn't help him to come out. The bullies actually pushed him to succeed, by using that as motivation he graduated high school with honors and went on to Berklee College of Music where he obtained his bachelor's degree in music business and management, graduating into two-and-a-half years with honors. Upon graduation, he immediately moved to Los Angeles and currently resides in Venice with his partner, Steven. He is currently the Director of Operations at Fancy Sprinkles in Los Angeles, CA where he manages the Operations, Fulfillment and Customer Experience teams. Looks like he blocked those high school bullies with hard work, dedication and a little sprinkle.    https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/

When Rique met Antonio, now his husband, in Paris he knew he was the one because of one important life goal they both had, to one day become Dads. They even agreed on a girl and boy name, which their twins are named. I would tell you, unless you already know, but I'd rather you listen and find out! Follow along as Rique shares the beautiful story of their journey becoming Dad's and how they fulfilled a dream of bringing life into the world. These two are sure to receive all the LOVE, and just wait for the amazing moment when Rique first heard his babies cry. @mytwopapis on Insta gram for adorable updates on the Twins and their two papis. 

This week Laura addresses #blackouttuesday and we hear from Bobby, a Drag Queen, who decided going to a small college was the best decision to have performing opportunity. He would also learn that the opinions of others can eat away at you and ultimately steal away your JOY. A large man with a loud voice, an amazing talent, and how he found JOY again doing what he loves. He used the negative voices to drive him forward instead of holding him back and years later learned forgiveness, for others and himself.

Carly Jibson was recruited at 16 for Broadway and by the age of 19 she was on the first National Broadway tour of HAIRSPRAY playing Tracy Turnblad and after 6 months touring she was asked to take over the role in NEW YORK CITY...so why did she leave? You'll have to listen to find out and follow her story of hard work, self sabotage, leaving Broadway and finally ending up where she is meant to.  We will also hear from two of my fellow SoulCycle Instructors on their favorite memories from the dark, candlelit room we all miss so much right now. Grab a glass of wine, water or whatever-you-fancy and enjoy!!

Welcome to The Manifesting Misfit Podcast with host Laura Crago, most people know her as a SoulCycle Instructor but those who really know her know she is quite the storyteller. From meeting Elton John, hugging Alanis Morissette, even riding her bicycle from California to NYC in memory of her father, or when she was a Showgirl in Las Vegas...guess you'll just have to listen! Not only will she share personal stories which have brought her to where she is today, how pay attention to the signs has guided here but weekly guests will share inspiring personal stories of determination, self love, hope and SO MUCH MORE! Follow on Instagram @manifestingmisfitpodcast or https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/ Visit the website for updates on podcast, full bio on Laura, episode descriptions with guests information and how to get in touch, as well as future guests. 

Welcome to The Manifesting Misfit Podcast with host Laura Crago, most people know her as a SoulCycle Instructor but those who really know her know she is quite the storyteller. From meeting Elton John, hugging Alanis Morissette, even riding her bicycle from California to NYC in memory of her father, or when she was a Showgirl in Las Vegas...guess you'll just have to listen! Not only will she share personal stories which have brought her to where she is today, how pay attention to the signs has guided here but weekly guests will share inspiring personal stories of determination, self love, hope and SO MUCH MORE! Follow on Instagram @manifestingmisfitpodcast or https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/ Visit the website for updates on podcast, full bio on Laura, episode descriptions with guests information and how to get in touch, as well as future guests. 

Welcome to The Manifesting Misfit Podcast with host Laura Crago, most people know her as a SoulCycle Instructor but those who really know her know she is quite the storyteller. From meeting Elton John, hugging Alanis Morissette, even riding her bicycle from California to NYC in memory of her father, or when she was a Showgirl in Las Vegas...guess you'll just have to listen! Not only will she share personal stories which have brought her to where she is today, how pay attention to the signs has guided here but weekly guests will share inspiring personal stories of determination, self love, hope and SO MUCH MORE! Follow on Instagram @manifestingmisfitpodcast or https://www.themanifestingmisfit.com/ Visit the website for updates on podcast, full bio on Laura, episode descriptions with guests information and how to get in touch, as well as future guests.