Podcasts about personal healing

277. Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith   *DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults.   1 John 1:9 AMP "If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].”   *Transcription Below*   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Their mission is to help couples navigate the complexities of relational challenges, particularly in the aftermath of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma, fostering deep restoration and growth.   Matthew is a Professional Certified Coach (ICF) with a background in pastoral leadership, while Joanna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR practitioner, and Certified Clinical Partner Specialist through APSATS. Both hold Master of Divinity degrees and have served together on multiple church leadership teams. Currently, they co-lead their private practice, The Raabsmith Team, where they specialize in helping couples rebuild connection, trust, and intimacy.   Their passion for this work stems from their own journey of restoration. After experiencing the devastating effects of sexual addiction and betrayal in their marriage, Matthew and Joanna embarked on a years-long pursuit of reconciliation. This transformative experience led to the creation of tools like The Intimacy Pyramid™, a practical model for relational restoration and growth co-created with colleague Dan Drake.    Their first book, Building True Intimacy (2023), has sold over 1,000 copies and provides practical guidance for couples to use the Intimacy Pyramid to create enduring connections. They also founded Renewing Us Recovery™, a comprehensive program designed to support couples in the later stages of relational restoration. In November 2025, they will host the inaugural Renewing Us Couples Retreat, offering workshops and connection opportunities for couples on similar paths of recovery and growth.   Matthew and Joanna live in Memphis, Tennessee with their three young children. They prioritize self-care through shared adventures, new experiences, and a weekly game of pickleball.   Free Resource Mentioned in Episode   Building True Intimacy book   Questions and Topics Discussed: What were the warning signs that you noticed when you were newlyweds that tipped you off to believing things weren't quite as they seemed? Are there any common life circumstances, whether nature or nurture, that predispose someone to be more likely to struggle with a sexual addiction? As couples seek to thrive in marriage, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid you wrote a book about?   Other Episodes Mentioned During Episode: Pornography: Protecting Children, Personal Healing, Recovery, and Victory in Christ with Sam Black Pornography Addiction and Helpful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day   Additional Related Episodes on The Savvy Sauce: Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder Stories Series: Recovery From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Special Patreon Re-Release Wholehearted Quiet Time with Naomi Vacaro   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”   Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”   John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:12)   Laura Dugger: (0:13 - 1:38) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com, or connect with them on Facebook.   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are my guests today. They are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Our conversation takes a few turns, from getting to hear their incredible and vulnerable story of healing and then getting tips for talking to our children about topics like sex, and also even receiving some practical wisdom and tips for enhancing our own marital enjoyment.   Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Matthew and Joanna.   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:39 - 1:40) So good to be here.   Joanna Raabsmith: (1:40 - 1:42) So glad to be here. Thanks for having us.   Laura Dugger: (1:42 - 1:51) Oh, truly my pleasure. And let's just start here. Can you share your story going back to meeting and falling in love and your first part of marriage?   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:53 - 2:17) Sure, yeah. It was a little bumpy at first, actually. So, I knew Joanna through her brother. Joanna's brother was one of my best friends, and I got to meet her whenever she would come in town and visit, and she would invade guy night. He would usually bring her along to like a Lord of the Rings movie or something, and I would be a little frustrated because I would be like, oh, you brought your sister. Great. That's wonderful.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:18 - 2:24) A little off-putting, not super friendly. And I was like, your friend's kind of a jerk. We did not like each other at all in the beginning.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:24 - 2:54) Not big fans. And eventually over some time, we started to realize we had a lot in common. We liked to do a lot of the same things.   And one summer that Joanna was in town, we started hanging out, started doing more and more together, and really just kind of developed a friendship, which was really fun. And at the very end of the summer, realized that there was something between us. And so, we went on one date.   Our first date, we entered a golf tournament. We won it, and that was a good sign.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:54 - 2:55) That's a pretty good sign.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:55 - 3:02) And we went on three more dates over the course of two months and got engaged.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:03 - 3:07) And then two months after that, we got married.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:07 - 3:16) Yeah. So, her brother went from like, yeah, it's cool you date my sister, to like, you're not ready to get married. But he's come around now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:17 - 3:19) 15 years later. Yeah.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:19 - 3:40) And, you know, a lot of it was, I think we had a definite sense of being kind of called together, being, you know, something special about who we were as a couple. And also, a recognition that we wanted to figure out what a good marriage looked like. We were really excited about marriage, but we didn't really know what we were doing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:41 - 4:15) Yeah, I've had a really great model of healthy relationship. My parents have a wonderful marriage. They work really well as a team.   And so, I knew, like, I want something like that. But as soon as we got married, we realized, but how do you actually build that? There's no, like, instruction manual for, okay, here are the things to do to have a great relationship.   And so, we read books. We went to conferences. You know, we did what we could, but we still found ourselves getting stuck, not able to really create, like, that deep sense of, like, connection intimacy that we really wanted.   Matthew Raabsmith: (4:15 - 5:17) And we started kind of hunting more and more for resources. We found some incredible resources that really changed our understanding of the way relationships work, the way people work, and really, for us, shifted our entire focus of kind of what we wanted to do, even with our life. And as we started to do that, though, we still kind of found ourselves at this kind of glass wall.   We felt like no matter what we tried, there was always this kind of distance between us. And that started to grow kind of over the years that we were together. It wasn't getting better.   It was actually kind of getting worse and worse and worse. And so, Joanna had actually decided to, after we finished our first grad degree together, the idea was we were going to go be pastors. And so, we had finished our kind of theological training.   Joanna decided she wanted to get a master's in marriage and family therapy so we could do some work around marriages and ministry in that way. And her very first-class kind of just set our life in a completely different direction.   Joanna Raabsmith: (5:17 - 6:26) Yes. So, my first class in the MFT program was a two-week intensive called Shame and Guilt. So, that's a really fun two-week intensive to be a part of. And as a part of that, though, they had an anonymous pastor come and share his testimony of struggling with sex addiction, becoming sober, getting into good recovery, healing and restoration in his marriage, kind of like that whole journey. And as he was talking, something inside of me started stirring. And I knew, OK, what he's saying is resonating way too much with me right now.   I think this is the thing. This is what is keeping us stuck, not able to really create the relationship we want. And so, that day I went home and first I just kind of started talking about my class, what I learned, what this pastor had shared.   Right. And nothing. Right.   We're just kind of talking generally about it. And so, finally I couldn't do it anymore. And I just stopped and I looked him square in the eyes and I said, “Are you struggling with this in our marriage right now?”   Matthew Raabsmith: (6:26 - 8:03) Yeah. And for the first time in my life, 20 years, I had been struggling with pornography, sexual addiction, and acting out in our marriage. And for the first time in my life, I was honest.   I had lied for years, both with Joanna and everyone else. And the kind of floodgates just kind of opened up. And I finally said yes.   And it was really hearing the story, I think, is what did it for me. I think it was knowing that somebody else had made it, that their life hadn't come crashing down because that was the greatest fear for me. That the moment anyone found this out, everything in my life would be over. Everything that I loved would be gone.   And so, this kind of story of hope gave me a little bit of courage that day, to be honest. But that started a really long journey for us because there was a lot of damage that was done in both of my hiding. And now kind of this revelation, all the pain kind of came crashing down on Joanna and kind of her shoulders.   And so, we started a quite intensive recovery process. We talked about it being kind of a full-time job. I went to recovery for my addiction and for kind of my acting out behaviors. Joanna had to begin a process of healing from the trauma of this discovery. And that process took us a number of years. It really was a long kind of arduous journey, but one that we ultimately survived and now thrive in our marriage and get the incredible luxury and the kind of gift of helping other couples do that.   So, that's kind of where we find ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (8:04 - 8:30) That is incredible. I just really appreciate you sharing your story. Clearly, stories are so powerful and that's what led to some healing for you and hopefully can open the floodgates for somebody else listening.   So, if we go back in your story, then, Joanna, I'd love to start with you. What were some of those red flags in early marriage that things aren't quite as they seem?   Joanna Raabsmith: (8:31 - 10:28) Yeah, there are a few. You know, I think that, you know, one of the pieces we kind of talked about, like, OK, we knew we're still getting stuck because there's 90 percent that felt really good. But then 10 percent that was extremely chaotic, really destructive.   Right. We would get we call the pain cycles when we get emotionally dysregulated. And there would be some things that, right.   Sometimes we would get into pain cycles, get dysregulated. And I kind of understand why. Right.   Like something happened. There was the disagreement. But other times I couldn't put my finger on it.   Right. Matthew would just get really angry and really shut down. And I wouldn't be able to connect it to anything that had happened in our life.   And so, it was very confusing. It was really hard to understand what was going on. And I think kind of in the same way, when I would pull too close into that connection, that intimacy, he would pull back.   Right. And it felt like even though we both named this goal and this desire, he would never actually partner with me in it. And so, again, that was really confusing because the actions were not matching up with reality and what was happening.   And I think the other piece that was kind of true for us and true for a lot of other people is that our own sexual relationship was fraught with pain. And so, there was, again, a lot that was really good, but also a lot that was really painful and confusing. And some of the pieces just didn't connect.   Right. And I would wonder, OK, what's going on? Well, I guess this is just the reality that like this is how much we get to expect in this area of our life, right.   In our relationship. And so, it was when the pastor started describing his life and addiction and what that looked like emotionally, sexually, relationally. I was like, oh, those are all the things that I'm currently experiencing.   Here's one thing that would answer all those questions that I have. And so, I think that was part of it. He kind of told me, like, OK, this is it.   Laura Dugger: (10:28 - 11:00) That would be so eye opening. And my heart's going out to the couple who is maybe starting to identify with this. Was it and share whatever you're comfortable with from your story or the person's story who opened things up to you?   So, sexually, I'm wondering if it was for you, Joanna, if you were hoping to connect sexually and that wasn't happening and that was confusing. You didn't feel pursued. But I don't want to fill in the blanks.   So, could you elaborate?   Joanna Raabsmith: (11:00 - 12:03) Absolutely. Yeah. And we find it a lot of different ways than couples that we work with.   Right. And so, it can be sometimes on either side of the extreme. And so, for us, it was where there would be kind of times when he'd be fully present and interested and engaged. Right. And then all of a sudden, kind of like I described emotionally, he would just withdraw and not be there. And I would reach out to connect.   And that was this like non-response. And which, again, didn't match up with those other times when he was engaged and wanting to connect. And he would give some sort of excuse that didn't totally make sense.   Right. But I was kind of like, what else? What was I left with except that?   So, I would kind of believe that and go with it, even though it didn't sit right. And so, yeah, I think that was part of it. We will see on the other side for some other couples.   It's the opposite. And maybe that spouse is hypersexual in the relationship. Right.   To the point where there might be pressure, even pressure to do things sexually that people aren't comfortable with. And so, yeah, it can look a lot of different ways. But that was kind of what our disconnect looked like.   Laura Dugger: (12:04 - 12:33) That's so helpful. And there's two different directions I want to go, Matthew. So, I'll set it up.   I guess I'm thinking of the guilt and shame and how those are usually so present. So, I have two questions. Were you when Joanna came to you, were you at a point where you recognize something was off and you wanted freedom from this and or had tried freedom before?   Let's start with that and then I'll go into the other one.   Matthew Raabsmith: (12:34 - 14:40) Yeah, it really was holy timing in a lot of ways. I, you know, for a lot of years I had I hated what I did. I didn't feel like I could stop it, but didn't have a lot of interest in kind of doing anything to stop it.   I kind of just like would just say, “OK, this is going to be the last time.” And then, you know, of course it would come back. But I think at this point I had really started to see the damage that was happening to our relationship.   I could feel us growing close, growing further apart. I could see kind of Joanna and the confusion that she was having. And like she couldn't understand things.   She would ask me a lot of questions that I didn't have answers to. And so, I actually a couple of months earlier, we were at a worship service, and they had said like, “hey, if you are ready to give something up, if you feel like there's something holding you back, come forward and confess it.” And Joanna and I were sitting next to each other, and I remember feeling like the Holy Spirit just like pulling me to like get up out of my seat and I wouldn't move.   I was like, no, because she's going to ask me what I went down for. I'm going there's you know, there's a random kind of prayer partner at the front. I'm like, I'm not going and confessing this to some random person.   And so, I was ready. But I think like I said, I think there was no path forward. It was kind of confess this and everything stops and ends.   But everything like marriage ends, life ends. And so, when she when she brought this, it really did feel like God had kind of been answering a prayer that I've been praying of like, if you give me a way out, I'll take it. I'm desperate.   I want it to stop. And it felt like that. I think it was both this kind of terror and this hope that day.   And even when I said, yes, it was a little bit like, what have I done? Like, could this have been different? Should I have just gone and told someone else privately?   Right. But I think ultimately that it was out between the two of us and that we kind of knew it. We knew what we were dealing with made a huge difference.   But I mean, God had been working in my life, offering opportunities for so long. I just been saying no, no, no. And then finally, you know, I think my heart just broke and it was like, yes, OK, I'm ready for this.   Laura Dugger: (14:40 - 15:14) I love how the Holy Spirit equipped you with that humility and courage to be brave in that moment. And it's such a blessing for all of us to get to see the end or I guess not the end of the story, but you at this point in your story where you're thriving. And so, I hope that offers a lot of hope to people listening.   But let's also pause. And so, going back further in time, Matthew, this was the other part of my question. What was life and attachment and your growing up journey like?   Matthew Raabsmith: (15:15 - 18:09) Yeah, I didn't know that at the time. Right. I a lot of this I figured out in the last couple of years of recovery.   You know, if you would have asked me, you know, as I was growing up about my life, I would have told you I had the perfect family. I had the perfect life. I think I did not realize that some of the things that I was going through weren't perfect, were harder.   And part of that was because I think the way my family dynamic worked was we just swept everything under the rug. You know, whatever happened, we just kind of went, OK, and moved on from. And I learned to do that as a kid.   And that meant a lot of emotional chaos. There was a lot of physical chaos and kind of volatility in our house growing up. And even though I had parents who are still married to this day, have stayed together and have tried to create kind of a stable life.   There was a lot of emotional and kind of relational instability. We moved around a lot. And then once we started moving, I found myself more and more kind of isolated at school. I started dealing with bullying and some things that really kind of left me not knowing how to deal with the pain that I was going through. And so, my way of stuffing things under the rug was getting, you know, escaping, you know, kind of escaping into anything that I could. I watched a lot of TV.   I was a latchkey kid, so I would come home. I'd watch TV a lot in the afternoon and then TV kind of just turned to more and more. And I was exposed pretty young to pornography, actually at a church camp.   I was at a summer church camp. Someone brought a Playboy magazine, and I was exposed to pornography. And I kind of felt that high, that rush.   And that just became kind of a mode of my escape. Right. Of whatever I could do to engage sexually, whether with my mind or with others.   That's how I could get out of the pain I was in. That's how I could stop feeling kind of the chaos that I was having and not realizing that it was becoming this kind of adaptive habit, that it would just be this thing I would go back to more and more. And I grew up at a time that technology was still emerging.   So, I can remember when we got our first computer and no one was talking about safeguards or anything. And so, it was just kind of exposure. Here you go.   Here's everything you could ever want and don't need. And that really became my life. And the more and more that I did, the better and better I got at lying and hiding and even being kind of vulnerable in kind of fake ways.   I would mention things like, yeah, we all have this struggle. And even Joanna, I had told like, you know, that was a struggle of mine in the past, but I've moved on from it. Right.   I told myself and other people just kind of lie after lie after lie so that I could have really this double life. I could appear one way and then I could be acting a completely different way, kind of in the dark.   Laura Dugger: (18:10 - 20:41) Yeah. And that makes sense. I'm thinking back to two episodes.   We did one with a male, Sam Black from Covenant Eyes, and he speaks so much of the origins of pornography and that foothold that Satan gets. And so many times it is in childhood, unwittingly you're exposed and then what it can turn into. And then Crystal Renaud Day came on to share a lot of females struggle with this as well.   And so, I'll link to those if those are a help.   And now a brief message from our sponsor. 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For me, I had to figure out what had really gone on in my life and what was really happening.   Because, like I said, I had become such an expert at hiding from myself and others that I didn't really know how to live any other way. And so, I, you know, Joanna kind of handed me a list of everything this pastor had done. She was like, here you go.   Right. She kind of handed me that list and was like, good luck. And so, I dove in.   I went to a men's intensive. And I think that was probably one of the key places for me to tell my story for the first time. I really took a look at my life and had some people help me take a look and recognize the trauma that I had as a kid exposure that I had experienced and what that really meant to me and helped me understand what I was doing.   But also, kind of what I was doing to myself, how I was really kind of killing myself from the inside out and preventing myself from having the kind of relationship I wanted with God and other people. And so, that discovery was in really ways kind of invigorating for me. I felt like I was living for the first time.   I think I had started to kind of get out of this kind of burden, this fear of always being caught. I told Joanna kind of the history of everything that had happened in my life and our relationship. And so, I was feeling this kind of renewed sense of like energy and excitement of like, this is good.   I want this life. I want the life there that I'm not in constant kind of fear and in constant kind of connection to this thing I hate. And so, which is really different than what Joanna was experiencing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (22:30 - 25:07) Yeah. So, for me, it was very jarring in the beginning. Everything I thought was real came crashing down around me.   And that was especially jarring because I had left kind of the direction, the path that I was on. Right. We talked about our story earlier.   It included two months of dating, two months of engagement before we got married. And that also included me dropping out of law school, getting married and moving to California to pursue a ministry degree so we could work as pastors together or do something together. And so, in that moment, all of that came crashing down.   And I kind of was very lost, not just in our relationship, but in kind of what in the world am I even doing here? What am I going to do moving forward if he doesn't choose recovery? Right.   And so, just all of those question marks, all in that one moment of him answering that question affirmative. And so, so there was like that heaviness on one side and then on the other side was this relief of finally everything I've been experiencing makes sense. Right. Finally, I feel like I actually know what's going on. And because of that, there could maybe be a path forward for us as well. So, is this very, very weird dichotomy in that moment? And so, but I think I knew right away, like, I can't be vulnerable. I can't be intimate with him anymore. Right.   I have to step back in our relationship and wait and see what he chooses to do. Is he going to choose to do the work of recovery and get healthy and start to be honest and safe or not? And so, that's so we kind of did kind of there's some space for a very long period of time while we focused on our own individual recoveries.   And that, again, was a little bumpy for me. This is over a decade ago. And so, there is very little information about what partners experience.   We call it betrayal trauma, and that just wasn't a very common word at the time. And so, some of the resources I plugged into came from a more we would call it codependent, co-addict focus, which just really didn't fit. So, I struggled to find resources that felt like they fit for my journey.   But once I did, it all again, my own healing process started to make sense. And it was so like freeing and liberating to understand. Like, oh, OK, this is what I'm going through. This is why I feel this way.   This is what it looks like to heal and move forward. And so, kind of beginning that process was so important because then when Matthew was kind of in a healthy, safe place, I was as well, and we can start to step in towards each other on that kind of more couples' journey at that point.   Laura Dugger: (25:07 - 25:17) I love how you did that wisely, though, separate first, not rushing into couples at that time. Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (25:18 - 26:33) Appreciate you calling it wise. I think we were terrified. Yeah, we'll take God's help.   I think he was like, you guys just work on your own stuff for a while. And in some ways, like I said, it was we didn't know what we were doing. But I think we knew we wanted there to be a future between the two of us.   But we knew it had to be completely different in some ways than what we had before, which was scary because we liked what we had before. Like we had a really great marriage in many ways. Right.   There was this portion of it, this hidden portion that was really infecting and killing it all. But what we did have together, we didn't want to totally lose. It just was really hard to know, especially early on, what's going to come forward.   Like, who are we still going to be as we go forward? Are we still going to be a couple who does things together? Right. Who works together? Or is that all kind of going to have to be different? Is that the only way that we have kind of moving forward?   And so, that was that was probably the hardest part was having like this sense of like not wanting to lose us. We were like, if we lost that, that was going to be miserable. And I think a lot of our work was about how do we eventually reclaim this marriage that we want, that we love?   Laura Dugger: (26:34 - 27:04) Yes, because from what I'm sensing, you're friends with each other, you're on purpose or on mission with God. He did a course correction change, putting you on this path to help couples. But your desire to work together, it's like He still honored that in the ministry of reconciliation.   And I'm assuming abundantly blessed it beyond what you could ever dreamed up what we're doing now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (27:04 - 27:42) Right. It's been amazing to see what God has done, how he's used our story, which is so fitting because it was someone sharing their story that brought our healing. And I think because of that and it wasn't right away; it took some time to get to the place where we felt open to God using our story to bring healing to others. But we found as we stepped into that, that we have received such a blessing.   Right. And just being able to sit with other couples in that journey and see them go from that place of pain and confusion to this place of restoration and thriving. Like there is no better work that we could have imagined for ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (27:42 - 28:09) Love that. And really, you did have to pioneer a path. There weren't many resources at that time.   So, that's another reason I'm grateful you can share your story, because I hope it unlocks freedom for others. So, if we're turning more outward now and you're helping as you work with couples, how do you help them identify the difference between sexual struggles and sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (28:10 - 30:15) Yeah, that's a great question. And I think that it really kind of exists on a spectrum. And so, everything kind of exists under what we call problematic sexual behavior or unwanted sexual behavior.   Whenever someone is acting in a way sexually that doesn't align with their values. And then the question is, is how often, how compulsive, right? How habituated, right?   How really embedded is that practice? Because the more and more embedded it is and the more and more that I continue to act on that, seeing the damage that it's doing, that's really what qualifies as the addiction. The addiction is when I know that this is causing harm and I and I feel that even though I want to stop it and I've tried to stop.   Right. I can't stop the 12 steps has a great line. They say addicts, you know, addicts have no problem stopping.   It's staying stopped. That's hard for an addict. Right.   And so, that's usually a sign that there's an addiction. And really what that means is that just means that I'm going to have to be even more kind of thorough and scrupulous in my willingness to change a lot. Because if I have built an addictive lifestyle, that means everything I do kind of functions to support that lifestyle.   Right. And so, my part of that was this hiding. I lied about everything.   I would lie about anything just to make sure that I was in control of the narrative. And so, for me, it was recognizing that if I was going to move forward free of my addiction, then it had to begin with honesty, with this kind of radical honesty and transparency and growing in that consistently, because that was the way that I manifested this addiction and kind of kept it going. And so, that's really what the addiction is about, is recognizing what are the kind of pieces in my life that are supporting this addiction to continue to exist?   And how is God going to dismantle those things? Right. And how am I going to be a part of that dismantling?   Laura Dugger: (30:16 - 30:33) That's well said. And also, I'm curious, are there any common life circumstances, whether that's nature or nurture, that are more likely to predispose someone to more likely have this struggle with sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (30:34 - 32:30) I mean, there are, I think, you know, the things that we tend to look for are trauma and trauma comes in so many different forms. So, trauma is more it's rare that it's a single event. It's often more a kind of consistent occurrences.   As I mentioned, you know, I can't speak to kind of one event in my life that I say this was the traumatic moment in which everything changed. But it was more of the chaos. And so, I grew up in a family that could be really, really, really loving and incredibly encouraging and fun and silly and in a heartbeat switch into one that was verbally and physically just chaotic and terrifying.   And it was that chaos that kept me on edge. What it did was it created in me kind of a system of always wanting to be on high alert. And that would exhaust me.   That would kind of wear me out. And I would want to kind of numb that kind of feeling away. And so, I think those traumas, I do think early exposure.   Right. I mean, I was exposed early before my brain was ready to really understand what it was dealing with. And I think the third component that we often see is a low level or a kind of really a void of sexual education.   There was I'm sure I had a small talk with my dad at some point, but we were not talking about pornography. We weren't talking about bodies. We weren't talking about sex from a kind of healthy, good way.   I grew up in the church, and it was kind of don't do this until you're married and then you'll be fine. Right. That was the sexual education message.   And so, those things, right, trauma, exposure and lack of kind of education usually forms in someone a difficulty of knowing what they're doing, knowing that it's destroying them before it's really kind of gotten a deep hole.   Joanna Raabsmith: (32:30 - 33:20) I think like the brain. The brain aspect to when we talk about addiction, there are usually chemicals involved in addiction being formed, being created. And so, I think also co-occurring disorders, right, that emotional pain, also things like anxiety, depression, ADHD, where my brain really likes the dopamine it gets from sexual acting out. Right.   And you can actually need it to feel OK. That can also be a factor in kind of especially that addictive side of these behaviors. When my brain gets really attached to that dopamine release that it's getting because maybe I have some other things going on or I just have emotional pain.   I don't know what to deal with, how to handle it, how to regulate that in a healthy way.   Laura Dugger: (33:20 - 34:30) There's so many good points there. I'll just highlight one because there's a profound piece that you were talking about with early exposure to evil and the corruption of it is extremely harmful. And yet not being exposed to God's good design for sex and hopefully being coached by our parents, that is both of those play a part in the addiction. And so, I'm thinking even as we shift to think about parents, I know I've had parents come to me and just say, I don't want to talk about this with my kids.   I don't want to rob their innocence. And my approach is if God made it, this is good. We can talk to them.   You're not robbing their innocence when you're sharing the good age-appropriate parts of sex. And it's so great to be that first one to share with them. And I think it does the opposite of what we would expect.   We're afraid that that might make them hyper sexualized. But would you speak to that? Any encouragement for parents?   Matthew Raabsmith: (34:30 - 36:37) Yeah, it's tricky. I mean, even as parents, we've got kids and its still kind of navigating it. But I do think what it does is it lets someone learn the things they need to in the timeline they need to.   I think part of one of the things is that, you know, really good sexual education starts young. I mean, they start six and seven years old or even younger, just talking about our bodies. Right.   Because I think that's part of it. Really, this is about understanding the goodness of our bodies. This body was created by God, the maker of heaven and earth, and he called it good.   And so, I think part of a good sexual education begins with that. And then, what's really nice is once you've started the conversation, that means if your children are exposed or if they're presented with things that don't line up with what they've been hearing, they now feel safe to come and talk about that. Because that's really what this was about.   I didn't feel safe to talk about what I was exposed to, what people were doing. Right. And what people were encouraging me to engage in.   And so, you know, my parents would ask me how it's going. I would not tell them anything because it wasn't a conversation that they were having with me. And so, I didn't think it was a conversation I was going to have with them.   And so, that meant that as I found myself further and further away from my values, I felt like, who am I going to share this with? And so, part of having the conversation is it normalizes with our kids that this is OK to talk about, which is actually what adults need. I mean, part of our work with couples as adults, we have to get them talking about sex and body parts.   I mean, it's amazing to have 30, 40, and 50-year-olds in our offices and in our sessions. And they're so uncomfortable. Right.   They don't want to talk about sex. They don't want to talk about their bodies. They don't want to talk about what their bodies do.   Right. And we keep being like, this is God's good stuff. Right.   There is goodness here. But you have to begin by talking about it. Right.   Having these conversations.   Joanna Raabsmith: (36:38 - 37:54) I tell all the parents I work with, your kids are going to pick up a narrative about what sex is and what sexuality is, whether you want them to or not. And so, would you rather be the first person to step in and give them a healthy view, a healthy narrative to understand? Right.   And this is beyond kind of the nuts and bolts that everything our kids are learning. They're trying to find a deeper meaning. They don't think it's unconscious when they're young. Right. But they're taking it and they're going, what meaning does this have for me? How does this inform my self-worth, my view of my own value as a human in my body?   And how does it inform my experience of the world and my safety in the world? And am I empowered to make decisions? Am I connected?   Do I belong? Right. All of those questions are asking.   And so, as they're confronted with issues of sexuality, it's going to inform those things. And the world will not give them a healthy narrative about it. Right.   And so, being able as a parent to step in and give them that healthy meaning, that narrative, that understanding of their worth and their safety as they're piecing together kind of sexuality, again, at that age-appropriate level is so important.   Laura Dugger: (37:54 - 38:30) Guess what? We are no longer an audio only podcast. We now have video included as well.   If you want to view the conversation each week, make sure you watch our videos. We're on YouTube and you can access videos or find answers to any of your other questions about the podcast when you visit thesavvysauce.com. And I love that you're talking about this with couples you work with.   So, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid that you actually wrote a book about and you teach to couples?   Joanna Raabsmith: (38:30 - 38:31) Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (38:31 - 39:15) Yeah. I mean, it was born out of our journey because, as you said, we wandered for a while and we felt a little bit like Israel, just kind of, you know, knowing that the Promised Land was out there, but never really feeling like we could find it. And when we started to piece together, I think the kind of relationship that we had dreamed of reclaiming, we really ask ourselves, how can we make this a more direct, a simpler process, not just for couples who went through what we went through, but really for any couple who's hungry for this, for the couple like us when we were first starting.   It really wants an amazing marriage. And so, we really focused on a kind of simplistic idea of what are the core kind of foundational levels of building really healthy intimacy.   Joanna Raabsmith: (39:16 - 40:10) Yeah. So, the intimacy pyramid, it's actually a triangle. There's a visual that goes along with it.   So, if you imagine the different levels of the triangle, very similar to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, starting at the bottom, you have to start with honesty. And so, we definitely experienced that reality in our own relationship. Right.   This is something we learned from Couples in Betrayal, but like Matthew said, we realized this is where every couple starts. Am I willing to be fully open, fully honest and transparent in this relationship? Am I being my authentic self?   Right. And after that level of honesty, that's when we start to build safety. And that has to do with our ability to communicate in really healthy, constructive ways.   Even when it's hard, even when we're disagreeing, even when we feel like yelling at each other. Are we able to show up with that belief that we both have the same goal? We're trying to build something together.   Matthew Raabsmith: (40:10 - 41:57) And with honesty and safety, that's where we get to work on trust as a couple. That's that next level. And trust is where we start to be more partners, where we're really starting to kind of lean in, work together, kind of be courageous and saying, “Hey, this isn't just my life anymore, right?”   This is our life together. And as that trust is established, this is what allows for the incredible work of vulnerability. And there's been all these studies about vulnerability over the last few years and how important it is.   What we recognize, though, is vulnerability on top of nothing is actually really risky and kind of even dangerous. It's vulnerability that's built on healthy trust where we step in and we do share some of those deeper pains in those wounds, those fears. We start to really heal some of those kind of early traumas that we experience.   It's in that vulnerability. That's what allows a couple to be truly intimate. And it's when they've worked through each of these levels, what we find is these couples, when they reach this kind of this intimacy level, they're passionate about who they are as a couple. They love kind of their relationship itself. They have a purpose to it. They have a sense that like our marriage, our relationship exists for a reason, but they're also really playful.   They're silly. They're really kind of comfortable in their own skin. And it's those five levels really working together that allows them to experience a relationship that gives life. I think one of the things we know is that when God creates, it gives life. And so, God created marriage not to burden us, right? Not to kind of, you know, not even just to get us through, you know, kind of surviving life, but actually to bring more life.   Right. And not just life within the relationship itself, but life outside of it.   Laura Dugger: (41:58 - 42:22) Oh, I love it. And you're also working with couples. I've heard you speak before about the working on offering your spouse the gift of self-awareness. And so, what could couples expect? How do you actually work with them to grow in self-awareness and recognize things like the emotional process they go through in marriage?   Joanna Raabsmith: (42:22 - 43:48) Absolutely. So, awareness. So, in our book, we obviously detail the intimacy period much more.   And that's Building True Intimacy is the name of the book. But each of those levels we just walked through have different components that go into that. And awareness is kind of like one of the most important components of that honesty foundation.   So, we have to start with awareness and we can't really build anything if there's a lack of self-awareness. And so, when we work with couples, one of the first places we start is we kind of look at the past. Are they aware of what they've been through, what those experiences are, and how those experiences have shaped them into the person that is now in the present, showing up with their spouse.   Right. And so, once I start to have that insight from my past, from those experiences, how they shape me, I can better understand my present. What are the things that I feel and why do I feel those things in particular?   Right. And then when I feel those things in a relationship, and these are typically those kind of heavier, more challenging, more painful emotions. How do I respond?   How am I showing up? Because the reality is that all of us cope with emotional pain the same way we cope with physical pain. We go into fight or flight.   That part of our brain gets triggered and we respond with these kind of destructive relational coping behaviors that then hurt my partner.   Matthew Raabsmith: (43:48 - 46:22) Yeah. Like, for example, I told you about that chaos I experienced as a kid. And so, those would always happen around conflicts.   My parents would disagree about something. There would be some type of argument about, you know, and it could be anything where we were going for dinner or what color the curtains were. Right.   But it would create this chaotic environment. So, as I got married, the thing that I didn't like the least was any type of conflict. Joanna and I would get in when I could sense us disagreeing and we are both passionate.   We have opinions and we believe things and we get into this kind of disagreement and argument. It would freak my system out. And I didn't realize that because I didn't really know my past.   I didn't know what was going on. I would just really do anything to shut it down. I get angry and I try to get loud, or I just walk away in the middle of a conversation.   As Joanna was talking, I would just leave the room and my acting out was just a further manifestation of that kind of leaving the relationship. And so, part of my healing journey was to learn about my story and recognize, oh, OK, I can see what's happening. And what's really interesting is it still happens in our life today.   I've been in recovery for 12 years. I still feel the same things. Now it's more like when my kids are getting involved.   Right. And there's energy in the room and people are online. And then I go, oh, yeah, there it is.   There's my system again. It's starting to feel unsafe. It's starting to feel alone. And I know what it wants to do. It wants to get angry, or it wants to just shut down and walk away. And what's incredible is that we've learned the ability to see where we're at but also speak directly to that.   And so, what I get to do for myself now is I get to go, “OK, I know I'm feeling unsafe and I know I'm feeling alone. And I know I want to get angry to solve it, but it won't do it. But here's the truth. The truth is that I'm safe in God's economy. I'm empowered. I have an incredible partner in my life. I've never been alone. I've always had someone there for me. And Joanna is the perfect example of that.”   And that totally changes my sense of really kind of where I am. And it changes how I show up. I tend to be much more calm.   I ask questions rather than make demands. And it's that ability to kind of see where we're at and shift. That's just been such a game changer for our family and just for our own relationship.   We still have to work on it. You know, it doesn't always look that pretty. Right.   But when we do, it's amazing how different it goes.   Laura Dugger: (46:24 - 46:44) And then I just think of the generational impacts that has when people are willing to do the work. And so, if there's a brave couple out there who wants to seek their own help and healing, can you share where they can go for help, including the Raabsmith team and all that you have to offer?   Matthew Raabsmith: (46:46 - 47:30) Yeah, you know, we would love them to connect with us because I think one of the things we recognize was having guides along the way. I mean, we had to figure a lot out ourselves, but we also had some really incredible guides, some mentors, some coaches, some therapists. And so, we always just say, hey, connect with us.   You can find us at raabsmithteam.com. We have a heart for couples who want restoration and reconciliation because that's what we're getting to live and experience. And what's cool is our whole team, they're couples who've been through this work, but who also have been professionally trained to help other couples to just continue to guide and to grow relationships so that they're thriving and they're kind of giving that life.   Joanna Raabsmith: (47:30 - 48:10) Absolutely. We also love to give out resources. And so, we have the kind of we call it the honest connection.   And so, again, if you're starting this journey or even this is for any couple who wants deeper connection, deeper intimacy, learning how to do that on a daily basis in small ways is so important. And so, we have a worksheet that couples can take and use. We're happy to provide that for them for free and kind of try this for 30 days and notice the changes that you experience in your relationship.   And so, that's a great starting point wherever you are in relationship to begin that journey of connection.   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:10 - 48:14) And you just go to raabsmithteam.com/free and that resource is all yours.   Laura Dugger: (48:15 - 48:26) Wonderful. Add links for that in the show notes for today's episode. And is this then for any couple worldwide, nationwide?   Can you work with people?   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:27 - 48:55) We have we've got couples across the world, which is really fun. It's been really neat just to see the way that God has used our work. One of the things when we first started this journey, we started getting couples calling us saying, “Hey, I don't have anybody in my area that specializes in this, that understands this journey. Can I work with you?” And so, we kind of felt a calling to say we want to make sure that we connect with people wherever they are. And so, absolutely.   If you can hear our voice, you can work with us.   Laura Dugger: (48:55 - 49:14) I love that. And just as a little bonus practical tip, you kind of mentioned being proactive to thriving in marriage. Is there any encouragement that you could share or a specific practical tip that anybody could start to incorporate if they want to take their marriage to that thriving level?   Matthew Raabsmith: (49:15 - 50:12) Yeah, I think just the ability to slow down. We have a  nine, seven and six-year-old. We own our own business, and we like life and life can get incredibly fast.   And I think what we have found is when, as I was mentioning, when I learned the ability just to slow down, even if I don't fully just know myself slowing down and checking in, just where am I at right now? Where's my heart? Right. Where do I want to be?   I think I realize that so often my values and my actions aren't aligned when I'm moving too quickly. I'm not being the person that I want to be. And we see that in so many couples. We meet so many couples and there are two really great people who have a hard time working together. They have a hard time kind of being a team.   And it's usually because they're working so fast. They don't realize they're kind of working against each other. So, slowing down, I think, is such a big thing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (50:12 - 51:18) Another piece that's, again, really easy to start right away. A lot of couples we work with, and I think probably even us when we start a relationship, was there were two individuals in a relationship, and it was kind of either me or you. And starting to understand there's this third thing between you, the relationship. There's a third almost entity that really needs care. It needs nurture. It needs you to focus on its needs from time to time.   And so, beginning to approach the day, even approach conversations with this question of like, what does our relationship need right now? And even as you're trying to make decisions, what is the way we can decide this in a way that's good for our relationship or what decision benefits our relationship rather than does it benefit you or me? Because when you get into that struggle, it can become a competition.   It can become transactional really quickly. So, starting to ask that question, starting to talk about the needs and caring for the relationship very intentionally can be a way to shift that.   Laura Dugger: (51:20 - 51:38) Thank you for sharing that. I think that leads into my last question, because you already know we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so, as my final question for both of you, Matthew and Joanna, what is your savvy sauce?   Matthew Raabsmith: (51:39 - 52:22) I kind of mentioned this, but I think it's the willingness to be honest. I was so willing to lie to myself and kind of really hide from other people. And I didn't even know that I was doing it.   But as I have learned to be more honest in really kind of healthy ways, right. You can dump, you can whine, you can complain, you can get angry. But truly being honest meant just looking at what I was feeling and trying to kind of figure that out and name that.   As I have learned that ability to be honest with myself and with others, it has just opened up a new world of possibilities. And it has shown me how many people care for me; how much God cares for me. So, I think that honesty is something I just want to practice more and more every day.   Joanna Raabsmith: (52:22 - 53:30) I think for me, just in my own journey and working with so many partners, that importance of being able to make empowered decisions in my life. Right. That I am really intentionally choosing the direction I'm going in life.   Realizing that instead of going into this more helpless, powerless victim stance is such a difference. And really the only thing that changes a lot of times is mindset. You don't have to overhaul your entire life.   Right. You have to add in like four hours of self-care and all of these things. But starting to shift that mindset into, wait, I have power in the decisions I make.   And one of the ways that's really important to do that is growing that self-awareness. I cannot make empowered decisions if I'm not aware of where I'm at emotionally, physically, spiritually. Right.   If I'm not aware of my needs on a regular basis. And so, slowing down to check those things in, sometimes even multiple times in the day if you're not used to that. So, you're more connected to yourself, to what you need, what you want.   So, you can start making those empowered decisions.   Laura Dugger: (53:32 - 54:00) I love that. It's just so enjoyable to host a very lively couple who's humble and you've done your work. And then you're willing to share all this overflow of goodness with all of us.   So, I think my prayer is that the Lord would richly bless you for this open-handed generosity of wisdom and your story and experience that you've shared with us and modeled for us today. So, thank you to both of you for being my guest.   Joanna Raabsmith: (54:00 - 54:03) Thank you so much. It's a joy being here.   Laura Dugger: (54:05 - 57:47) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

Keywords Oxfam, safeguarding, sexual exploitation, whistleblowing, autism, media coverage, aid sector, leadership, moral injury, charity Takeaways Helen Evans was the global head of safeguarding at Oxfam. She uncovered systemic issues of sexual exploitation and abuse within the organization. Despite her efforts, she faced resistance from senior management. The media coverage of Oxfam's issues came after the Me Too movement gained traction. Helen experienced PTSD due to the stress of her role and the lack of support. There is a significant stigma attached to whistleblowers in the UK. Many survivors of abuse do not report due to fear of not being believed. Helen advocates for mandatory safeguarding measures in aid organizations. She now works as the CEO of a charity focused on a rare neurological condition. https://cavernoma.org.uk/about/our-team/ Summary In this conversation, Helen Evans shares her harrowing experience as the global head of safeguarding at Oxfam, where she uncovered systemic issues of sexual exploitation and abuse. Despite her efforts to address these issues, she faced significant resistance from senior management, leading her to take her concerns to the Charity Commission. Helen discusses the impact of her experiences on her mental health, including a diagnosis of PTSD, and reflects on the stigma surrounding whistleblowers. She advocates for improved safeguarding measures in the aid sector and emphasizes the need for a dedicated regulator to hold organizations accountable. Now serving as the CEO of a charity focused on a rare neurological condition, Helen continues to champion the importance of ethical practices in aid work and the need for organizations to prioritize safeguarding vulnerable populations. Sound bites "This was a systemic issue." "I had to relocate. I lost my home." "I think there have been improvements." Chapters 00:00 Uncovering the Truth at Oxfam 03:59 The Impact of Whistleblowing 06:53 The Role of Media and Public Awareness 09:48 Courage and the Personal Cost of Speaking Out 12:51 The Intersection of Autism and Advocacy 15:45 Challenges in the Aid Sector 18:51 Improving Safeguarding Practices 21:59 The Need for Accountability in Charities 24:42 Reflections on Leadership and Change 27:39 The Future of Safeguarding in Aid Work 30:36 Personal Healing and Moving Forward 44:38 Outro Oct 23  2.mp4  

Keywords Oxfam, safeguarding, sexual exploitation, whistleblowing, autism, media coverage, aid sector, leadership, moral injury, charity Takeaways Helen Evans was the global head of safeguarding at Oxfam. She uncovered systemic issues of sexual exploitation and abuse within the organization. Despite her efforts, she faced resistance from senior management. The media coverage of Oxfam's issues came after the Me Too movement gained traction. Helen experienced PTSD due to the stress of her role and the lack of support. There is a significant stigma attached to whistleblowers in the UK. Many survivors of abuse do not report due to fear of not being believed. Helen advocates for mandatory safeguarding measures in aid organizations. She now works as the CEO of a charity focused on a rare neurological condition. https://cavernoma.org.uk/about/our-team/ Summary In this conversation, Helen Evans shares her harrowing experience as the global head of safeguarding at Oxfam, where she uncovered systemic issues of sexual exploitation and abuse. Despite her efforts to address these issues, she faced significant resistance from senior management, leading her to take her concerns to the Charity Commission. Helen discusses the impact of her experiences on her mental health, including a diagnosis of PTSD, and reflects on the stigma surrounding whistleblowers. She advocates for improved safeguarding measures in the aid sector and emphasizes the need for a dedicated regulator to hold organizations accountable. Now serving as the CEO of a charity focused on a rare neurological condition, Helen continues to champion the importance of ethical practices in aid work and the need for organizations to prioritize safeguarding vulnerable populations. Sound bites "This was a systemic issue." "I had to relocate. I lost my home." "I think there have been improvements." Chapters 00:00 Uncovering the Truth at Oxfam 03:59 The Impact of Whistleblowing 06:53 The Role of Media and Public Awareness 09:48 Courage and the Personal Cost of Speaking Out 12:51 The Intersection of Autism and Advocacy 15:45 Challenges in the Aid Sector 18:51 Improving Safeguarding Practices 21:59 The Need for Accountability in Charities 24:42 Reflections on Leadership and Change 27:39 The Future of Safeguarding in Aid Work 30:36 Personal Healing and Moving Forward 44:38 Outro Oct 23  2.mp4  

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

It's time to build your family's future on a foundation of true health and freedom. Join us at Future Foundations—because your future generations deserve the best start to the mission that will outlive us… Check it out here. Use code FREEDOM25 for 25% off! Whether you're looking for tinctures, topicals or teas or a deeper connection to your INNATE healing capacity, Noble Task Homestead is here to serve you. Join the movement. Visit NobleTaskHomestead.com/noblestan today and enjoy a 10% discount on your order. San Diego area residents, take advantage of our special New Patient offer exclusively for podcast listeners here. We can't wait to experience miracles with you! Welcome to another powerful episode of the Future Generations Podcast! Host Dr. Stanton Hom sits down with Mark Groves, a human connection specialist with a fascinating journey from pharmaceutical sales to relationship expert and social commentator. This episode is a must-watch for individuals struggling with personal relationships, healthcare professionals seeking deeper insights into emotional health, people interested in understanding social manipulation, those experiencing technology-induced stress, and anyone seeking personal growth and self-awareness. Delving deep into personal healing, societal manipulation, emotional intelligence, and the complex landscape of human behavior during challenging times, this conversation offers transformative insights for viewers looking to understand the intricate dynamics of human connection in our modern world. Highlights: "I was really good at talking about everything but my feelings." "I found myself more connected to myself than ever, even though I was single." "So much of inflammation was caused by emotional dysregulation and trauma." "I felt like I was living in an upside-down world." "Stating the facts of informed consent is considered an attack." Timestamps: 00:01 - Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:57 - Mark's Journey from Pharmaceutical Sales to Human Connection Specialist 03:58 - Insights into COVID-19 Pandemic Narratives 12:07 - The Psychological Impact of Technology and Social Media 22:49 - Attention as Currency in Digital Platforms 26:47 - Exploring Solutions for Personal Healing and Connection 29:37 - Building Community and Breaking Down Social Divisions 36:27 - Practical Strategies for Technology Detox 45:13 - The Importance of Personal Values and Self-Alignment 53:29 - The Power of Personal Responsibility and Transformation Resources: Remember to Rate, Review, and Subscribe on iTunes and Follow us on Spotify! Learn more about Dr. Stanton Hom on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstantonhom Website: https://futuregenerationssd.com/ Podcast Website: https://thefuturegen.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/drstantonhom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanhomdc Stay Connected with the Future Generations Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futuregenpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futuregenpodcast/ Links: https://www.thehivemethod.co/ https://www.instagram.com/thehivemethod.co About: Human Connection Specialist, Speaker, Author, Coach, Podcast Host and founder of Create The Love. Born with an innate curiosity and a hunger for truth, Mark's journey of self-discovery and personal liberation has led him to spend the last decade coaching and inspiring millions worldwide to create the life and love they desire. Through his candid but compassionate, no-BS guidance, Mark has helped empower countless individuals, teams, and companies to step into their most authentic, effective, and loving selves, transform how they relate to themselves and others, and create profound changes in their lives and relationships. The desire to go off grid and have the ability to grow your own food has never been stronger than before. No matter the size of your property, Food Forest Abundance can help you design a regenerative layout that utilizes your resources in the most synergistic and sustainable manner. If you are interested in breaking free from the system, please visit www.foodforestabundance.com and use code "thefuturegen" to receive a discount on their incredible services. Show your eyes some love with a pair of daylight or sunset (or both!) blue-light blocking glasses from Ra Optics. They have graciously offered Future Generations podcast listeners 10% off any purchase. Use code FGPOD or click here to access this discount, and let us know how your glasses are treating you! One of the single best companies whose clean products have supported the optimal wellness of our family is Earthley Wellness. Long before there was a 2020, Kate Tetje and her team have stood for TRUTH, HEALTH and FREEDOM in ways that paved the way for so many of us. In collaboration with this incredible team, we are proud to offer you 10% off of your first purchase by shopping here. Are you concerned about food supply insecurity? Our family has rigorously sourced our foods for over a decade and one of our favorite sources is Farm Match and specifically for San Diego locals, "Real Food Club PMA". My kids are literally made from their maple breakfast sausage and the amazing carnitas we make from their pasture raised pork. We are thrilled to share 10% off your first order when you shop at this link. Another important way to bolster food security is by supporting local ranchers. Our favorite local regenerative ranch is Perennial Pastures. They have the best nutrient-dense meats that are 100% grass-fed and pasture-raised. You can get $10 off of your first purchase when you use the code: "FUTUREGENERATIONS" at checkout. Start shopping here.

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton interviews Rod Hammonds, a former pastor who transitioned from a successful business career to ministry. Rod shares his journey of faith, the impact of COVID on his life, and his passion for missions and recovery ministry. He discusses the importance of personal healing and the challenges of navigating church dynamics while pursuing a calling to serve the community. Rod emphasizes the need for patience and trust in God's guidance as he embarks on a new ministry journey, leading a house church and focusing on outreach.

Happy Mindful Monday, Everyone!In this week's episode, our host Allie Brooke interviews the amazing Lildonia Lawrence.Lildonia  is a Wellbeing Coach and Equality & Diversity Trainer. Having worked in the field since 2010, she specialises in BIPOC wellbeing, anti-racism, and equitable healthcare. Her passion stems from the belief that everyone, especially those facing social exclusion, deserves access to top-tier mental health and well-being education. Lildonia supports individuals who have experienced racial trauma and provides anti-racism education for allies through workplace training, group programs, and personalised coaching. She is the author of Back Yourself: A Wellbeing Guide to Healing from Racial Trauma and hosts the Intersections podcast. Lildonia aims to create a world where individuals can foster their health and share that empowerment with others.Episode TopicsDefining Holistic Wellbeing and the Crucial Role of Mind-Body Integration: A discussion covering your definition of holistic health, drawing on your expertise as a coach, yoga instructor, and dance professional, and explaining why integrating the physical and mental self is key to lasting health.The Personal Journey: How Severe Anxiety and an Endometriosis Diagnosis Shaped Your Professional Approach: Exploring how your personal health challenges led you to truly embody your life's work and the vital lessons learned from those experiences.Fundamental, Actionable Tools for Long-Lasting Mental and Physical Health: Sharing essential, practical techniques that listeners can implement today to proactively foster better physical and mental health.Connecting Diversity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing for a Healthy Workplace: Drawing on your experience as an equality & diversity trainer to connect the importance of an inclusive environment with overall health and productivity in the workplace.Focus on BIPOC Wellbeing: Why It's Crucial and Overlooked Challenges in Mainstream Mental Health: A critical discussion on the need for specialized focus in BIPOC wellbeing and addressing the unique considerations often missed in general wellness discussions.Practical Steps for Making Wellbeing Services More Inclusive and Accessible: Outlining concrete ways that mental health and wellbeing education can be made available to marginalized and socially excluded communities. How To Connect w| Lildoniawww.movewithlildonia.com Back Yourself: A Wellbeing Guide to Healing from Racial Trauma – Amazon USBack Yourself: A Wellbeing Guide to Healing from Racial Trauma – Amazon UKInstagram: @lildonia.lawrence The Growth METHOD. Membership◦ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (Both FREE and Premium)◦ Use Code:growthmindsetgal for 50% off your first month's subscription! THE GREAT 2025 LOCK-IN GIFTED 1HR COACHING CALL SIGN UPENDS 12/31/2025 1:1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ GROWTH MINDSET COACHING PROGRAMS!◦ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Application Form ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ What are the coaching sessions like?⁠⁠• Tailored weekly discussion questions and activities to spark introspection and self-discovery.• Guided reflections to help you delve deeper into your thoughts and feelings.• Thoughtfully facilitated sessions to provide maximum support, accountability, and growth.• Please apply for a FREE discovery call with me!• Allie's Socials• Instagram:@thegrowthmindsetgal• TikTok: @growthmindsetgal• Email: thegrowthmindsetgal@gmail.comLinks from the episode• Growth Mindset Gang ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Broadcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Growth Mindset Gang ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Growth Mindset Gal ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Better Help Link: Save 10% ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/growthmindsetgal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kem. Platinum-selling R&B artist, author of Share My Life

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kem. Platinum-selling R&B artist, author of Share My Life

EVEN MORE about this episode!What if healing could flow not only to us but also to our beloved pets through the power of Spirit? In this episode, we explore the miracles of energetic healing, intuition, and spirit communication. Jeff from Virginia finds relief from kidney stone pain using spiritual visualizations, while Mary from Nova Scotia shares her deep heart-to-heart connection with her dog, Loki, as they face health challenges together. Chrissy discovers comfort and joy after her husband's passing through messages from beyond, and Rachel from Huntsville learns to interpret her dog Koozie's quiet requests. Clay from Oakland finds healing in memories of his cherished cat, Mervyn, reminding us how love bridges the gap between worlds.These heartfelt stories reveal how pets and loved ones continue to guide us through dreams, signs, and subtle communication. We also explore past-life wisdom, intuitive development, and the supportive presence of spirit guides. Together, these experiences offer powerful insights into how healing, love, and Spirit are always available, enriching our daily lives and deepening our connections to those we hold dear.Episode Chapters:(0:00:01) - Personal Healing(0:06:52) - Healing Pets and Bone Loss(0:21:16) - Communicating With Spirits and Healing(0:29:28) - Spiritual Messages for Pet and Loved Ones(0:38:29) - Connecting With Spirit and Healing(0:46:09) - Teddy's Love Guides Personal Healing(0:51:36) - Spiritual Healings and Pet Guidance➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!

You know her from Precious and Empire, but Gabourey Sidibe is even more real off-screen. She talks with Deborah Joy Winans Williams about Hollywood myths, shutting down colorism, and why learning to love yourself is the ultimate act of resistance. Funny, raw, and inspiring. #GaboureySidibe #ChoosingJoyPodcast #DeborahJoyWinans #SelfLove #Colorism #HollywoodTruths #BlackMotherhood #BlackWomenInFilm #IVFStory #Precious #EmbraceJoy #ConfidenceJourney #BlackExcellence #WomenInHollywood #ActressInterviewGo Premium: https://www.theblackguywhotips.com/premium/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this radiant episode of Choosing Joy, host Deborah Joy Winans Williams sits down with the one and only Gabourey Sidibe—award-winning actress, director, and mother—to talk about choosing self-worth, navigating colorism, and embracing joy in a world that often tells you you’re not enough. From her unexpected journey into stardom with Precious to raising twins and reclaiming her own story, Gabby opens up with humor, honesty, and an unshakable spirit. She shares how her mother’s influence, her unconventional path into Hollywood, and her deeply grounded sense of self have kept her centered through fame, criticism, and cultural expectations. This conversation goes beyond celebrity—into what it means to love yourself loudly despite the noise. Expect laughter, real talk, a few tears, and a reminder that every person deserves good things. Whether you're an artist, a parent, or just someone trying to find peace in your own skin, this episode is for you. ✨ This is Choosing Joy at its most soulful and powerful. Chapter Markers 00:00 – We All Deserve Good Things 03:00 – Gabby’s Unexpected Journey into Hollywood 06:00 – Spirituality, Serendipity & Precious 09:00 – Gabby’s First Time on Set 12:00 – What Hollywood Really Is 1 5:00 – Colorism, Casting, and Identity 18:00 – Exhaustion, Projection & Protecting Joy 21:00 – Gabby on Self-Love and Her Mother 24:00 – Marriage, Kids & Redefining Want 27:00 – IVF, Motherhood & Living Fully 30:00 – The Power of Storytelling #GaboureySidibe #ChoosingJoyPodcast #DeborahJoyWinans #SelfLove #Colorism #HollywoodTruths #BlackMotherhood #BlackWomenInFilm #IVFStory #Precious #EmbraceJoy #ConfidenceJourney #BlackExcellence #WomenInHollywood #ActressInterviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a "Shortcut" episode. It's a shortened version of this week's more detailed full episode, which is also available on our feed.Craig Semple is a former New South Wales police officer with 25 years' experience in high-risk law enforcement.He shares his journey through stress, burnout and, ultimately, recovery, as detailed in his books The Cop Who Fell to Earth and Getting Back Up Again.You can click here to purchase your copy of The Cop Who Fell to Earth, and Getting Back Up Again.You can learn more about Craig's business, Mentality Plus here.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. Join our Facebook Group here.Do you have information regarding any of the cases discussed on this podcast? Please report it on the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.For Support: Lifeline on 13 11 1413 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380CREDITS:Host: Meshel LaurieGuest: Craig SempleExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardGET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Craig Semple is a former New South Wales police officer with 25 years' experience in high-risk law enforcement. He shares his journey through stress, burnout and, ultimately, recovery, as detailed in his books The Cop Who Fell to Earth and Getting Back Up Again.You can click here to purchase your copy of The Cop Who Fell to Earth, and Getting Back Up Again.You can learn more about Craig's business, Mentality Plus here.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. Join our Facebook Group here.Do you have information regarding any of the cases discussed on this podcast? Please report it on the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.For Support: Lifeline on 13 11 1413 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380CREDITS:Host: Meshel LaurieGuest: Craig SempleExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardGET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's time to build your family's future on a foundation of true health and freedom. Join us at Future Foundations—because your future generations deserve the best start to the mission that will outlive us… Check it out here. Use code FREEDOM25 for 25% off!  Whether you're looking for tinctures, topicals or teas or a deeper connection to your INNATE healing capacity, Noble Task Homestead is here to serve you. Join the movement. Visit NobleTaskHomestead.com/noblestan today and enjoy a 10% discount on your order. San Diego area residents, take advantage of our special New Patient offer exclusively for podcast listeners here. We can't wait to experience miracles with you!   Welcome to Future Generations Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to welcome Mitchell Osmond, host of the Dad Nation podcast, for an incredibly powerful conversation about masculinity, personal transformation, and breaking generational cycles. Mitchell shares his raw and inspiring journey from a struggling husband and father to becoming a beacon of hope for men seeking to reclaim their lives, marriages, and purpose. This episode is a must-watch for parents wanting to break negative generational patterns and for anyone interested in personal development and family dynamics   Highlights: "The lone wolf dies alone. The strong wolf builds a pack."   "Time is the only currency we spend without knowing the remaining balance."   "Your children will grow up to become the man that you are."   "Presence is what women crave. Presence is what our children need."   Timestamps: 00:02 Introduction 05:17 The Defining Moment at the Funeral 12:46 Understanding Masculinity and Purpose 19:08 Challenges Men Face in Modern Society 31:36 Mission and Purpose in Fatherhood 36:26 Transformative Client Success Story 44:16 Personal Healing's Impact on Professional Success 51:21 The Critical Importance of Fathers 54:36 Conclusions Resources:   Remember to Rate, Review, and Subscribe on iTunes and Follow us on Spotify!   Learn more about Dr. Stanton Hom on:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstantonhom  Website: https://futuregenerationssd.com/    Podcast Website: https://thefuturegen.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/drstantonhom  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanhomdc  Stay Connected with the Future Generations Podcast:   Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/futuregenpodcast  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futuregenpodcast/    Links:    https://www.thehivemethod.co/ https://www.instagram.com/thehivemethod.co   About Mitchell Osmond Mitchell Osmond is a trusted advisor, leadership consultant, executive coach, and a successful podcaster. He is dedicated to helping high-performing men achieve success where it matters most—at home, in their health, and in their mindset. With +15 years of experience in high-level senior leadership, Mitchell has guided executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals to bridge the gap between career success and personal fulfillment, ensuring they thrive in both their businesses and their marriages. As the host of the Dad Nation Podcast (34k monthly listeners), Mitchell speaks directly to men who refuse to settle—high achievers who want to lead their families with the same excellence they bring to their careers. Through his coaching, courses, speaking engagements, and online influence, he equips leaders with the tools to build unshakable confidence, a powerful mindset, and a thriving home life—without sacrificing professional momentum. A sought-after speaker, Mitchell has shared his expertise on leadership, marriage, mindset, and high-performance habits at podcasts, conventions, and executive masterminds. His mission is simple: help high-performing leaders win in every area of life and create a lasting legacy.   Social Links: Website: https://www.dadnationco.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dadnationco Podcast: https://www.dadnationco.com/podcast  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchell-osmond-5a07a210a/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadnationco/   FREE GIFT: THE CONNECTION CODE™: From Small Talk to Soul Talk: https://www.dadnationco.com/code Complimentary Strategy Session: https://calendly.com/mitchell-ed6z/strategy-session   The desire to go off grid and have the ability to grow your own food has never been stronger than before. No matter the size of your property, Food Forest Abundance can help you design a regenerative layout that utilizes your resources in the most synergistic and sustainable manner. If you are interested in breaking free from the system, please visit www.foodforestabundance.com and use code “thefuturegen” to receive a discount on their incredible services.   Show your eyes some love with a pair of daylight or sunset (or both!) blue-light blocking glasses from Ra Optics. They have graciously offered Future Generations podcast listeners 10% off any purchase. Use code FGPOD or click here to access this discount, and let us know how your glasses are treating you!   One of the single best companies whose clean products have supported the optimal wellness of our family is Earthley Wellness. Long before there was a 2020, Kate Tetje and her team have stood for TRUTH, HEALTH and FREEDOM in ways that paved the way for so many of us. In collaboration with this incredible team, we are proud to offer you 10% off of your first purchase by shopping here.   Are you concerned about food supply insecurity? Our family has rigorously sourced our foods for over a decade and one of our favorite sources is Farm Match and specifically for San Diego locals, “Real Food Club PMA”. My kids are literally made from their maple breakfast sausage and the amazing carnitas we make from their pasture raised pork. We are thrilled to share 10% off your first order when you shop at this link.   Another important way to bolster food security is by supporting local ranchers. Our favorite local regenerative ranch is Perennial Pastures. They have the best nutrient-dense meats that are 100% grass-fed and pasture-raised. You can get $10 off of your first purchase when you use the code: "FUTUREGENERATIONS" at checkout. Start shopping here.  

Welcome to another episode of I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman, the podcast for creatives and entrepreneurs who want to build careers without selling out.This week, Luis sits down with Steve Lequerica — the COO of LiveRecover, a startup that's recovered over $13 million in abandoned carts for ecommerce brands in just the past 90 days. But this episode isn't just about sales and conversions — it's about the real stuff behind the grind: family, heartbreak, discipline, and figuring out who you are when everything goes sideways.Steve's story goes from almost-med-school to startup junkie — with stops in Jersey, Laguna Beach, Cincinnati, and some unexpected emotional detours along the way. The dude went from shadowing anesthesiologists to cold-calling pharmacy owners, and eventually helped scale a tech company from the ground up. And in between all that, he got humbled by heartbreak, lost 40 pounds, and found his purpose again.In this episode, we talk about:Growing up in a Puerto Rican household with that military-level disciplineWhy he pivoted from pre-med to startups (spoiler: Organic Chemistry will humble you)What it means to “sell with soul” in an AI-driven worldHow his mom taught him more about sales than any mentor ever couldLearning to lead through burnout, heartbreak, and doubtThe pain of staying in a relationship that no longer serves youGambling addiction, money lost, lessons gainedAnd why golf, God, and gratitude are now non-negotiables in his lifeYou'll hear about Steve's transition from being lost in comfort to finding power in clarity. He opens up about the turning point where he chose discipline over distraction, health over hustle, and long-term peace over short-term highs.You'll also get insight into how LiveRecover works — a human-powered platform that texts potential customers when they abandon their cart. No bots. No automation. Just real people having real conversations to close the sale and keep your brand feeling personal.Steve breaks down the psychology of checkout behavior, how AI is changing the game (and where it shouldn't), and why human connection still wins in business.

In this episode, Marguerite Mary Rigoglioso, founder of Seven Sisters Mystery School, returns to share profound insights into the spiritual currents moving through our time. Our focus is on what she calls the Mary of Now—the recognition that the Marys, whether as Mary Magdalene, Mother Mary, or the many expressions of the sacred feminine, are not distant figures of history but living guides present in our world today. These archetypes bring a frequency of wisdom and healing meant to help humanity navigate a time of great transition.As we continue, Marguerite illuminates how the Christ Consciousness itself is a Pleiadian mission, seeded long ago as a way of anchoring light and love into the Earthly plane. Rather than being confined to one tradition, Christ Consciousness is revealed as a universal current that spans the cosmos, inviting us into unity, compassion, and remembrance of our star-born origins. In this conversation, that understanding becomes a lens through which we can view our collective challenges, not as random struggles, but as part of a larger training ground for a New Earth.A central theme we explore is the nature of the God and Goddess frequencies. Marguerite describes these energies not as abstractions but as living forces that express themselves through us. The God frequency embodies structure, presence, and protection, while the Goddess frequency carries creativity, flow, and deep nurturance. When brought into balance within our lives, these polarities allow us to live from a place of wholeness. This episode weaves together ancient archetypes, stellar wisdom, and modern spiritual practice into a vision that is both mystical and practical. It shows how the presence of the Marys, the infusion of Christ Consciousness, and the balance of divine energies are all converging now as signposts guiding us toward the next chapter in our collective evolution. An incredible episode.. Drop In!ww.sevensistersmysteryschool.comMarguerite Mary Rigoglioso:Marguerite Mary Rigoglioso, Ph.D., is the founder of Seven Sisters Mystery School, a world-renowned teacher of sacred knowledge, and the foremost authority on the history of virgin birth. A trusted mentor to people on healing and spiritual paths, she draws on her decades-long research and experiences with Mother Mary and Mary Magdalene to help uncover their hidden, timeless teachings and apply them to our present-day needs. The award-winning author of several books including The Secret Life of Mother Mary: Divine Feminine Power for Personal Healing and Planetary Awakening and The Mystery Tradition of Miraculous Conception: Mary and the Lineage of Virgin Births, she currently lives in western Massachusetts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kem. Platinum-selling R&B artist, author of Share My Life

Ever wonder how a Brownlow medallist, three-time premiership hero, and AFL icon becomes a gentle force for change? In this deeply moving episode, Jimmy Bartel joins Sarah Grynberg to explore the man behind the medals, the father, advocate, and quiet survivor of domestic trauma. From playing through pain to raising sons with softness, Jimmy opens up about what it means to break cycles, rebuild after heartbreak, and redefine masculinity on his own terms. You’ll learn: *Why vulnerability, not victories, has become Jimmy’s proudest legacy.*How he transitioned from elite athlete to present dad and purposeful mentor.*Why healing is never linear and the most meaningful wins happen off the field. This episode is a tribute to growth, grit, and the kind of strength that shows up long after the final siren. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s newsletter (Greatness Guide) here. Purchase Sarah's Meditations here. Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/sarahgrynberg Twitter: twitter.com/sarahgrynbergSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this enlightening podcast, Paul Olko, a practitioner of Taoism and Chinese medicine, shares his passion with Avi for introspective personal healing. He explores health through the lens of the five elements—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial—emphasizing balance and living in harmony with nature. Paul discusses the importance of cultivating oneself like a garden, using practices like Taoist meditation and the I Ching to foster self-awareness and gratitude. He highlights the power of simplicity, moderation, and embracing paradoxes, such as letting go of the need to know to gain true wisdom. Paul also reflects on building community, setting boundaries, and the transformative impact of aligning with one's authentic self.--Paul is a naturopath, herbalist, and Asian bodywork therapist. He has been associated with the Ni Family Traditional practices since 1989, and travels each year to study with the family to advance his own practice. He is certified by the Chi Health Institute of the College of Tao in the Ni Family's 18 and 28 Step Harmony-Style Tai Chi, Taoist meditation, Tai Chi staff, and 8 Treasures Qi Gong. He has been a Yoga teacher since 1972. He lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he has an active practice in the healing arts and teaches Taoist movement arts on a regular basis.For more information about Paul and his practice in Charlottesville, Virginia: https://greenlakehealing.com/Keywords: Taoism, Chinese Medicine, Holistic Health, Personal Healing, Five Elements, Meditation, I Ching, Self-Cultivation, Gratitude, Spiritual Wellness, Nature Connection, Balance and Harmony, Community Building, Mindfulness, Simplicity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary: In this deeply honest episode of The Advancing Women Podcast, we explore what it means to stop hiding the cracks—and start honoring them. Inspired by Leonard Cohen's iconic lyric, “There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in” from his song Anthem (1992), we dig into the cultural and professional pressures that push us all, especially women , toward perfectionism as a form of self-protection. Through the lens of the Japanese art of Kintsugi—the practice of repairing pottery with gold lacquer, which highlights rather than hides breakage—and the concept of “Prove-It-Again” bias coined by sociologist Joan Williams in her book What Works for Women at Work(2014), this episode invites listeners to see their so-called imperfections not as flaws, but as places of power, healing, and light. Host Dr. Kimberly doesn't just speak about vulnerability—she practices it, sharing her own season of struggle and the truth that letting the light in starts with acknowledging - maybe even honoring - the cracks. In this episode, we unpack: The cultural myth of perfectionism—and who it really serves How gender bias reinforces the need to over-perform and under-rest What Kintsugi and Leonard Cohen's Anthem can teach us about resilience Joan Williams' research on the “Prove-It-Again” bias and how it impacts women at work References Williams, Joan C. and Rachel Dempsey. What Works for Women at Work: Four Patterns Working Women Need to Know. New York: New York University Press, 2014. (Chapter on “Prove-It-Again” bias) Cohen, Leonard. “Anthem.” The Future [Album], Columbia Records, 1992. https://youtu.be/1jzl0NlTmzY?si=S1wUBVh_7sXq_Wj3 Kintsugi: The Japanese Art of Precious Scars. [For readers, a good primer is by Bonnie Kemske, Kintsugi Wellness: The Japanese Art of Nourishing Mind, Body, and Spirit (2020)] Advancing Women Podcast (Spotify, iTunes) The Progress Principle https://open.spotify.com/episode/73WsiPl2cisLSd5XjZlco5?si=wfiNpNMPQpeWR9Cbl0tcAQ The Therapeutic Art of Kintsugi: Applying Japanese Pottery Repair Techniques to Personal Healing. Posted in: Mind/Body Medicine, Self-actualization, Spirituality (Guest post by Prudence Sinclair.) https://berniesiegelmd.com/the-therapeutic-art-of-kintsugi-applying-japanese-pottery-repair-techniques-to-personal-healing/ Let's Connect @AdvancingWomenPodcast Subscribe, rate, and share the podcast! Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/advancingwomenpodcast/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/advancingwomenpodcast/ More on Dr. DeSimone here! https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-desimone-phd-mba-ba00b88/

Marguerite Mary Rigoglioso, Ph.D., is the founder of Seven Sisters Mystery School, a world-renowned teacher of sacred knowledge, and the foremost authority on the history of virgin birth. A trusted mentor to people on healing and spiritual paths, she draws on her decades-long research and experiences with Mother Mary and Mary Magdalene to help uncover their hidden, timeless teachings and apply them to our present-day needs. The award-winning author of several books including The Secret Life of Mother Mary: Divine Feminine Power for Personal Healing and Planetary Awakening and The Mystery Tradition of Miraculous Conception: Mary and the Lineage of Virgin Births, she lives in western Massachusetts. The topics we cover:- Mary & Magdalene Priestess Training- Star lineage and connection – the Pleadians - The Holy Womb ChakraJoin Marguerite for a Free Full-Moon Online Initiation: Mary & Magdalene Womb-Heart Activation ~ Explore the Living Path of the Marys Priestesses: Thurs July 10, 2025 https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com/womb-heart/Enrolling soon: Mary & Magdalene Priestess Training 2025-26 https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com/mary-magdalene-priestess-training/. Join the Inner Sanctum Temple @ https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com/ist/ Purchase Marguerite's book, The Secret Life of Mother Mary: https://amzn.to/3KsPPki Sign up for free Mary Guided Meditations @ https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com/mary-book-meditations/ Learn more about Seven Sisters Mystery School @ https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com Follow Marguerite on Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/margueriterigoglioso / IG @margueriterigoglioso Book a mentoring session with Marguerite: https://www.sevensistersmysteryschool.com/mentoring/Visit Law of Positivism:https://www.instagram.com/lawofpositivism/Website: https://www.lawofpositivism.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawofpositivism/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lawofpositivismTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lawofpositivism 

I'm Holly Bentley, a devoted mom of three girls, including a set of identical twins. My journey into holistic healing began through my own experiences with trauma and grief. After enduring two traumatic birthing experiences and facing the heartbreaking loss of four loved ones within a single year, I found myself struggling with persistent pain—pain that I eventually realized wasn't just physical but deeply rooted in emotional trauma.I explored various healing modalities, including talk therapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), chiropractic care, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation. While all of these practices brought relief, it wasn't until I experienced Spinal Flow and Breathwork that I felt a profound shift. These modalities awakened something within me—an innate intelligence that allowed my body to heal itself from within. The experience was nothing short of life-changing.After 20 years in the lending and finance industry, I have found my true calling. My mission is now to share the profound healing power of Somatic Breathwork and Spinal Flow with as many people as possible. I believe that when we tap into our breath and life force energy, we can release trauma, restore balance, and unlock our full potential. What would your future look or feel like if you were living life to the fullest?Through my breathwork events and holistic healing sessions, I guide individuals in enhancing their body's innate wisdom, releasing stored emotions, and stepping into their highest well-being. Whether you're seeking relief from stress, pain, or emotional blockages, I am here to hold space for your self-healing and transformation.I'd love to support you on your journey to wellness—because you already have everything you need within you to heal. Let's breathe, release, and transform together.Support the showDiscover The 4 Powerful Ways Quantum Medical Hypnosis Will Transform Your Lifehttps://www.mybesthealer.com

Got Questions?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://calendly.com/conrad-rodriguez/30-minute-coaching-session⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠In this episode of the Masculine Health Solutions podcast, CJ Rodriguez interviews Dr. Robert Bray, an expert in Thought Field Therapy (TFT). They discuss the journey of healing and empowerment, the mechanics of TFT, and how it can help individuals manage trauma and emotional distress. Dr. Bray explains the tapping process, its effectiveness in reducing PTSD symptoms, and the importance of self-love and connection in personal growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for therapy and support in overcoming limiting beliefs and coping mechanisms, ultimately aiming to reduce violence and promote healing in the world.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Thought Field Therapy02:57 The Journey of Healing and Empowerment05:58 Understanding Thought Field Therapy09:01 The Tapping Process Explained12:01 Exploring Trauma and Memory15:11 Coping Mechanisms and Their Impact17:56 The Role of Therapy in Personal Growth21:03 Changing Perceptions and Healing23:56 Practical Applications of Tapping26:54 The Importance of Self-Love and Connection29:58 Dr. Bray's Mission and Future GoalsEMAIL CJ: mhs.pcasts@gmail.comSupport the Show Click a Link BelowBelow

In this powerful and vulnerable episode, Teresa Hobbs opens up about her personal journey through years of chronic illness, unexplained symptoms, and deep emotional and physical collapse — and what it took to slowly find her way back to life. From early signs of nervous system dysregulation to being dismissed by doctors, chasing countless integrative… Read More »Your Body Isn't Broken: Teresa Hobbs Shares Her Personal Healing Journey [Almost Awakened 188] The post Your Body Isn't Broken: Teresa Hobbs Shares Her Personal Healing Journey [Almost Awakened 188] appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

In this episode, I am joined with my dear friend and holistic healer, Dr. Miriam. Dr. Miriam shares her evolution from being a board-certified pediatrician to a spiritual life coach. We delve into her spiritual awakening in Ethiopia, her transformative work with plant medicine, and the importance of inner child healing. We also discuss practical steps to reconnect with our inner child and the role of intuition in our lives. Dr. Miriam emphasizes the need for a safe space in the healing process and the support available from benevolent ancestors and guides. Join us as we explore the path to self-acceptance and living authentically. Dr. Miriam is a thought leader, speaker, and the founder of Tipping Point Holistic Healing. With over a decade of experience as a board-certified pediatrician and global public health officer, she has a lifelong passion for nurturing children, which continues to influence her work today. After experiencing burnout, she developed her transformative "From Burnout to Burn Up" coaching approach, guiding women from self-rejection to self-acceptance. A key aspect of her process is inner child healing, helping women integrate all parts of themselves and heal childhood wounds to step into their soul's purpose. Her mission is to empower women to reconnect with their true selves and embrace their authenticity through the power of their consciousness, contributing to the shift of the planet's consciousness toward love while fostering a brighter future for both women and children. Timestamps 00:22 Introducing Dr. Miriam: A Journey from Burnout to Healing 02:31 The Power of Intuition and Inner Child Healing 04:32 Exploring Clairvoyance and Claircognizance 10:46 From Medical Doctor to Spiritual Healer 12:38 A Spiritual Awakening in Ethiopia 18:21 Challenges and Realizations in Public Health 22:30 The Importance of Education and Childhood 24:04 Personal Healing and Coping Mechanisms 32:21 Embracing Emotions and Inner Child Work 38:35 Healing Through Plant Medicine 39:56 Inner Child Healing Journey 41:52 Integrating Inner Child Work 44:46 The Role of Safety in Healing 45:44 Practical Steps to Reconnect with Your Inner Child 47:36 Radical Authenticity and Inner Child 49:40 Embracing the Shadows 55:10 Trusting the Divine Timing 01:04:35 The Power of Ancestral Support 01:06:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Dr. Miriam Website: https://tippingpointhealing.com Instagram: @iamdrmiriam Threads: @iamdrmiriam Connect with Leilani Website: www.shamanleilani.com Instagram: @shamanleilani Tiktok: @shamanleilani Threads: @shamanleilani Medium: @shamanleilani

In this podcast episode, we dive deep into the initiation required to lead yourself to making big numbers. The secret? The unfair advantage that everyone has: the body. You don't need to be special or smarter than anyone else; it's all about how you leverage what you already possess.Being in the tattoo industry, I've seen firsthand the power and potential of scaling. From $45K years to making $45K in two days, it's possible when you shift your focus from performing to embodying.Remember that success isn't about performing or perfecting. It's about full embodiment and leveraging your unfair advantage. Whether your goal is to become a better leader or scale your business, know that transformation begins with self-mastery.Becoming Unfuckwithable: a FREE MasterclassClaim Your Free Spot Inside Becoming Unfuckwithable Masterclass!If you are only going to join for shits + giggles, and you aren't going to make any changes to your life + biz….don't bother signing up. This class if for the 1% visionary artists that want to do something about unleveling their life because they have high standards and even higher goals. April 17, 20258:00AM - 10:00AM PSTLive on Zoom (Replays Available)Admission is FREE, you just have to be wiling to put in the work. https://www.theedgeink.com/becomeunfuckwithable—Applications for Quantum Coach Academy are OPEN.Welcome to Quantum Coach Academy. This 4-month certification for creatives, facilitators, and soul-led entrepreneurs ready to master somatics, lead transformational healing, and build an empire that scales alongside your expansion.Your specially design curriculum will help you learn how to: Guide nervous system regulation through breath, meditation & movementFacilitate shadow work, subconscious reprogramming & identity-level healingLead from your intuition—not fearCreate your own signature method and scalable offerBuild a brand that's not just magnetic—but iconichttps://www.theedgeink.com/QCA—Follow the Podcast on IG!https://www.instagram.com/themindofreese/Follow me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/theartofreese/Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClRdVuF9wXIAaEXp-RrVaHA

Michael R. Sherer and Brandy Gillmore share strategies for mind-body healing and personal transformation. Learn how to harness the power of the mind to achieve wellness and transform your life. #MindBodyHealing #PersonalTransformation #WellnessStrategies

Have you ever felt like staying silent was the safest option—even when it was eating you alive?   In this episode of The Divorce Revolution Podcast, I sit down with attorney, author, and trauma survivor Alreen Haeggquist for a deeply moving and eye-opening conversation about what it truly takes to transform pain into power.    From growing up in an abusive home to building a life of healing, advocacy, and impact, Alreen shares her journey of reclaiming her voice, her worth, and her life. We dive into how unprocessed trauma can show up in relationships, parenting, and work, and how to begin the healing journey even if you don't know where to start. This episode is an empowering reminder that your past doesn't get to define you—unless you let it. Resources Mentioned: Fired Up: Fueling Triumph from Trauma: https://www.alreen.com/book/ Save your seat for the FREE Divorced to Dollars Workshop: https://products.ambershaw.com/divorcedtodollars Sign up for ReNewU waitlist to get early access: https://products.ambershaw.com/signature-waitlist Cured Nutrition use code AMBER for 15% off: https://www.curednutrition.com/   What We Discuss: How trauma from childhood impacts adulthood, relationships, and parenting Reclaiming your voice and power after abuse or emotional silencing The role of therapy, journaling, and inner child work in the healing process Breaking the cycle of shame and learning how to speak your truth Using your personal story as fuel for helping and empowering others Navigating the emotional layers of healing after divorce or trauma Learning that your past doesn't define you—and how to rewrite your story   Key Takeaways: “You get to write your own ending. Your past doesn't get to define your future unless you let it.” “The moment I stopped hiding was the moment I started healing.”   Find more from Alreen Haeggquist: Website: https://www.alreen.com/   Find more from Amber: Instagram: @msambershaw Website: ambershaw.com  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@msambershaw

On this episode of Beyond the Mat, I have the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Ella Mills, founder of Deliciously Ella and co-founder of Plants. We dive into her inspiring journey; from overcoming personal health struggles to building a global plant-based brand that has transformed the way so many people approach food and wellness. Ella opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, balancing life and business, and the importance of staying true to your purpose. Whether you're passionate about health, curious about plant-based living, or dreaming of starting your own business, this conversation is full of insights and honesty. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this deeply personal episode, I share my biggest regret from my eating disorder recovery journey – how focusing too intensely on "being recovered" almost caused me to miss the beautiful growth happening along the way. Drawing on Dr. Benjamin Hardy's powerful concept of "living in the gap vs. living in the gain," I explore how this mindset shift can transform the recovery experience and help you  find meaning even in your most challenging moments. xo, lindsey Find All the Things -＞ www.herbestself.co ______ Coach with Me -＞Client Application ______ Email me directly -> info@lindseynichol.com ______ Join the free FB community -> www.herbestselfsociety.com ______ Need a helping hand guiding you girl!? You don't have to do this alone! Step 1: Go all IN! Decide to commit to yourself & your future! Do it scared girlfriend. Just do it! Step 2: Apply for limited 1:1 & let's work together -> Client Application Step 3: Leverage the FB community for support & stay tuned for all the resources up & coming to help serve you! YOU TOTALLY GOT THIS! * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

Send one way text to Rev Rachel Life is filled with challenges, but what if instead of resisting them, we embraced them as opportunities for growth and transformation? In this episode, we explore the deep connection between life's complexities and our personal healing, especially for those of us recovering from codependence, control addiction, and the need to fix everything around us. I share my own journey of realizing that avoiding difficulty only made life more complicated, and how shifting my mindset has brought me strength, peace, and a deeper spiritual connection. Through the lens of Soul Recovery, we'll uncover how to stop resisting, lean into our experiences with courage, and trust that even the hardest moments are guiding us toward healing. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or supporting a loved one on their path, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and practical tools to help you reclaim your inner power and find contentment, no matter what life brings. Join Me for a Soul Recovery Experience in 2025!There is nothing more powerful than stepping into sacred space together—in person or virtually—to deepen your Soul Recovery journey. This year, I'm offering retreats, workshops, and group experiences to support your healing, growth, and connection. Visit the website for more info! This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not allied or representative of any organizations or religions, but is based on the opinions and experience of Rev. Rachel Harrison. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein. Take what you need and leave the rest.Support the show Rev. Rachel Harrison and Recover Your Soul www.recoveryoursoul.net FREE Support Group on Zoom 6-7PM MT on the 1st Monday of the Month. Work the Soul Recovery Process with Rev Rachel. Working the Steps courses. Instagram, Insight Timer, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook private Facebook group community. Listen to a BONUS episode each Friday as a Patreon Member or subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Use code TRYASESSION for 40% off your first Coaching sessionDonations Transcripts

Anne Tucker delivers the latest channeled message from the angels around the solar flash, 3 days of darkness, and the upcoming shifts in leadership and consciousness. In this podcast, Anne explains the role of karma and the soul's evolution, and emphasizes the need for inner peace and self-love to accelerate the path of world peace. The conversation concludes with insights into the Earth's connection with the Orion constellation and the future evolution of humanity. The conversation explores the upcoming shift in consciousness and the role of the angels in guiding humanity through this transformation.Anne Tucker is healer & channel, supporting awakening souls on their journey through community, spiritual connection, and healing, so they can take advantage of this time of rapid growth and ascension. As a trance channel, Anne enters a meditative state where she connects to the Angelic realm and allows Angels to speak directly through her. She is a channel for Angelic guidance and healing frequencies that will prepare us and help to usher us through the planetary shift in consciousness.___________________PODCAST CHAPTERS00:00 - Anne Tucker Intro02:11 - Personal Healing and Relationship Baggage04:41 - Healing Protective Mechanisms06:51 - How Childhood and Past Lives Shape Our Relationships12:10 - Uncovering Past Life Memories 16:08 - Betrayal, Rage, and Healing from Past Lives20:19 - Can We Fully Heal Wounds? 22:20 - The Mother of Creation: Renewal and Freedom24:59 - Freedom and Love in Relationships27:57 - Signs from Angels: Understanding Their Presence34:19 - Raising Your Vibration to Connect with Angels39:57 - The Angels' Channeled Message42:12 - Shifting Notions of Leadership 44:54 - The Great Flash of Light47:18 - 3 Days of Darkness49:35 - Evolution of Humanity After the Shift54:02 - The Void: A Time of Separation 57:54 - Earth's Connection to the Orion Constellation 58:18 - Reconnecting with Our Galactic Family01:01:58 - Moving Beyond Fear to Embrace Abundance01:04:13 - How Angels Answer Prayers01:10:35 - Future Incarnations on Earth 01:13:31 - The Soul and Karma01:19:01 - Navigating the Darkness 01:26:40 - Why Some Souls Choose to Experience War?01:30:55 - The Future of the United States01:33:43 - Building Local Communities Amidst Global Changes01:36:24 - Opening to Psychic Perception01:41:55 - The Final Trio 01:43:11 - Channeling Guides and the Mother of Creation at Retreats01:45:53 - The Angels' Love for Humanity01:46:57 - What Humanity Is Losing?01:48:00 - Making Healing Accessible to All___________________Guest: Anne Tucker, Channeler Website | https://annetucker.com/YouTube Channel |  @annetucker  Soul Convergence Course | https://annetucker.com/soul-convergence/Peace Bathing Meditations | https://annetucker.com/peace-bathing/Angelic Frequency Series | https://annetucker.com/angels/Private Facebook Group | https://www.facebook.com/groups/SpiritMeansBusinesHost: Emilio OrtizInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/iamemilioortiz/Subscribe to YouTube Channel | https://www.youtube.com/EmilioOrtizWatch Emilio's latest series on 4biddenknowledge TV l https://bit.ly/AwakenThe6thSenseShop Our Clothing Collection l https://www.unlockedmovement.com/collections/justtapin___________________Special Offerings to Support the Show:✦ Make a One-Time or Recurring Donation on PayPal

In this episode, Mike Prince joins Ben to share how Blood Brothers profoundly impacted his faith and marriage. Embracing vulnerability opened the door to immense personal growth, and Mike's journey is a testament to that. What started as an attempt to win back his wife turned into a transformative encounter with God, leading to authentic relationships and a renewed faith. God is in the business of restoration, and in this conversation, Mike reveals how He has restored—and continues to restore—his relationships in powerful ways. Tune in to hear this incredible story of healing and transformation.Ways to connect with us - Visit BloodBrothers.orgMore about the Every Man Challenge - a 6-month challenge for men to live the lifelong adventure of loving God completely and loving othersSign up to receive our Saturday Field Notes Email. Thanks for listening!

Dr. Lynn Hellerstein of Vision Beyond Sight speaks with Ann Martin, Sound Worker, Musician, and Creator of BLISSbowls™ Sound Healing and Meditation Methods – online classes that offer a contemporary approach to healing work and personal meditation using singing bowls. Ann talks about introducing singing bowls as an effective tool for personal healing and for integrating into practically any profession. Do you know that singing bowls speak the language of the brain? It's frequency. Learn about the power of singing bowls and their vibration's effects to the mind, body and spirit. Find out about the different types of singing bowls and how their unique notes can clear different chakras. Discover how Ann's sonic harmonics or healing harmonies have worked as an alternative therapy especially to the “untouchables.” Also, be amazed by the power of gongs (the bigger, the better!) in letting go of your mind chatter and welcoming relaxation. You can even reach out to Ann to have her help you find the right singing bowl for you, and even listen to her free concerts online! Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.

Holding Space: Amanda Brunngraeber on Trauma, Healing, and Helping Others | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this powerful episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Amanda Brunngraeber to explore her profound journey of personal healing, self-discovery, and helping others. Amanda opens up about her experiences with generational trauma, the challenges of navigating teenage turmoil, and how her work in photography evolved into a path of holding space for herself and her community. Through candid reflections, Amanda shares how healing modalities like EMDR and spiritual practices have helped her break cycles, reclaim her sense of self, and guide others on their own journeys. Her story is one of vulnerability, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating compassionate spaces where people can feel seen and supported. If you're navigating your own healing journey or curious about how to better hold space for yourself and others, this episode offers heartfelt insights and encouragement.

In this episode, we explore how small yet intentional agreements can help heal deep relational wounds and foster secure, connected partnerships. We share our personal experiences with one of our core relationship agreements and how it has transformed our injuries from the past. Through this lens, we invite listeners to reflect on your own insecurities and explore how agreements can be a powerful tool for healing, trust, and deeper intimacy.“The Art Of We” podcast with Krista Van Derveer and Dr. Will Van Derveer(00:00) Introduction: How small agreements can heal deep relational wounds(02:23) The power of secure functioning: Why this agreement matters(03:39) Will's experience: Healing past wounds through loving “hellos”(06:23) The importance of eye contact and intentional connection when reuniting(06:53) Krista's experience: The impact of past loss and saying “goodbye with care”(08:29) How practicing intentional goodbyes builds trust and security(09:36) Where do insecurities show up in your relationship? A reflection for listeners(10:42) Identifying personal wounds and creating agreements to heal them(12:58) Balancing personal preferences and mutual care in a partnership(14:51) Final reflections: The impact of small actions on long-term intimacy(15:21) Closing thoughts: Inviting listeners to explore new agreementsReach out with your thoughts, experiences, and topics you want to hear about. We love hearing from our listeners!Resources Mentioned: Our Top 10 Relationship Agreements Get in Touch: The Art Of We WebsiteThe Art of We Instagram Integrative Psychiatry Institute: Psychedelic Therapy TrainingRate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts: If you want to show your support for this show, please consider rating and reviewing The Art of We on Apple Podcasts. To do that, open the Apple Podcasts app and search for The Art of We. Scroll to the bottom of the package and rate with 5 stars. Let us know your favorite part of the show by clicking “Write a Review.” While you're at it, follow the show so you can get the latest episode delivered to your phone weekly. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, Roane and Ben discuss the importance of finding purpose and meaning beyond sobriety in recovery from sexual addiction. They emphasize the need for a deeper understanding of one's life and relationships, advocating for personal growth and intentionality. Roane shares his transformative experience with a Christian counselor and the divine calling he felt. They critique the quick-fix approaches often seen in the church and stress the importance of long-term, inward work. Ben highlights the necessity of engaging with stories of those who have successfully navigated their recovery journeys. They both agree that true purpose and contentment are found in simple, meaningful actions and relationships, such as being a faithful spouse or parent.To learn more about the Sex, God, & Chaos team, click the link below: www.sexgodchaos.com Looking for help? Book an appointment with LifeWorks Counseling today: www.lifeworks.ms You can purchase your copy of Sex, God, & Chaos here: www.amazon.com

*DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults   252. Maximizing Sexual Connection as Newlyweds to Long Term Marriages and Recovering from a Sexless Marriage with Dr. Clifford & Joyce Penner   Ephesians 5:21 (NIV) Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.   Questions and Topics We Cover: What are a couple of your most important tips for newlyweds? What are your favorite recommendations to share with couples who want to be proactive and enhance their sexual intimacy, even if things are currently going pretty well? Will you define what constitutes a sexless marriage and share  any trends you've seen over the years?   Thank You to Our Sponsor:  Sam Leman Eureka   Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner are best known for their pioneer work in encouraging people of all faiths to connect their sexuality with their belief system ─ helping them embrace sex as good and of God. Dr. Clifford is a licensed clinical psychologist and Joyce is a registered nurse and clinical nurse specialist. They are highly respected authors and speakers, in addition to being parents and grandparents.    Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner's Website   At The Savvy Sauce, we will only recommend resources we believe in! We want you to be aware: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.    Books By Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner: Enjoy! The Gift of Sexual Pleasure for Women The Married Guy's Guide to Great Sex Restoring the Pleasure The Gift of Sex: A Guide to Sexual Fulfillment Sex FAQ We Didn't Have Time to Cover Today  Information on Pelvic Pain    Previous Savvy Sauce Episodes with Dr. Clifford & Joyce Penner: Easy Changes to Enhance Your Sexual Intimacy in Marriage with Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner    Maximizing Sexual Intimacy During the Three Most Challenging Phases of Marriage with Christian Sex Therapist Pioneers, Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner   Additional Previous Episodes on Sexual Intimacy on The Savvy Sauce: Fostering a Fun, Healthy Sex Life with your Spouse with Dr. Jennifer Konzen  Ways to Deepen Your Intimacy in Marriage with Dr. Douglas Rosenau  Ten Common Questions About Sex, Shared Through a Biblical Worldview with Dr. Michael Sytsma Hope For Treating Pelvic Pain with Tracey LeGrand Treatment for Sexual Issues with Certified Sex Therapist, Emma Schmidt Talking With Your Kids About Sex with Brian and Alison Sutter Natural Aphrodisiacs with Christian Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Douglas Rosenau Healthy Sexuality, Emotional Intelligence, and Parenting Children with Autism with Counselor, Lauren Dack Pain and Joy in Sexual Intimacy with Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Identifying and Fighting Human Trafficking with Dr. Jeff Waibel Bridging the Gap Between Military and Civilian Families with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cuthor, Podcaster, and 2015 Military Spouse of the Year, Corie Weathers Enjoying a God-Honoring, Healthy Sex Life with Your Spouse with Certified Sex Therapist and Ordained Minister, Dr. Michael Sytsma Enjoying Parenting and Managing Conversations About Sex with Certified Sex Therapist and Author, Dr. Jennifer Konzen Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, and Infertility with Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Hormones and Body Image with Certified Sex Therapist, Vickie George Passion Pursuit with Dr. Juli Slattery Female Orgasm with Sue Goldstein Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, and Treatments Available with Dr. Irwin Goldstein Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Desire Discrepancy in Marriage with Dr. Michael Sytsma Answering Listener's Questions About Sex with Kelli Willard Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Healthy Minds, Marriages, and Sex Lives with Drs. Scott and Melissa Symington Female Pornography Addiction and Meaningful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day Building Lasting Relationships with Clarence and Brenda Shuler Healthy Ways for Females to Increase Sexual Enjoyment with Tracey LeGrand Pornography Healing for Spouses with Geremy Keeton Sexual Sin Recovery for You and Your Spouse (Part Two) Personal Development and Sexual Wholeness with Dr. Sibylle Georgianna  Our Brain's Role in Sexual Intimacy with Angie Landry Discovering God's Design for Romance with Sharon Jaynes Sex in Marriage and Its Positive Effects with Francie Winslow, Part 1 Science and Art of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, Part 2 Making Love in Marriage with Debra Fileta Mutually Pleasing Sex in Marriage with Gary Thomas Sex Series: God's Design and Warnings for Sex: An Interview with Mike Novotny Sex Series: Enhancing Female Pleasure and Enjoyment of Sex: An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Degler Sex Series Orgasmic Potential, Pleasure, and Friendship: An Interview with Bonny Burns  Sex Series: Sex Series: Healthy Self, Healthy Sex: An Interview with Gaye Christmus Sex Series: Higher Sexual Desire Wife: An Interview with J Parker Sex Series: Six Pillars of Intimacy with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo 215 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen 216 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen 217 Tween/Teen Females: How to Navigate Changes during Puberty with Dr. Jennifer Degler 218 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma 222 Pornography: Protecting Children and Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black Special Patreon Release: Holy Sex: An Interview with Dr. Juli Slattery Special Patreon Release: His Desires and Her Desires in the Bedroom with Dr. Jennifer Konzen 224 Surprising Discoveries of Sex in Marriage: An Interview with Shaunti Feldhahn 227 Resolving Conflict in Marriage with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo  Patreon 28 Re-Release: Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder Patreon 23 Her Desires and His Desires in the Bedroom with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Patreon 26 Holy Sex with Dr. Juli Slattery Patreon 28 Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder Patreon 29 Remaining Sexually Engaged Through The Years with Dr. Michael Sytsma Patreon 49: Story of Healing from Sexual Betrayal in Marriage: An Interview with Bonny Burns Patreon 52 God, Sex, and Your Marriage with Dr. Juli Slattery   Connect with The Savvy Sauce Our Website, Instagram or Facebook    Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

My guest today is Dawn James. Dawn James, a former corporate executive working 70 hours a week, experienced a spiritual crisis in 2003 that changed her life trajectory. Shortly thereafter she left her career, began studying the healing arts and became a certified sound healer. A few years later she began writing about her experience through a trilogy of books on conscious living and how to improve your relationship with yourself and others. In this episode we discuss self-love, courage, publishing and personal growth.Website - https://www.dawnjames.ca https://www.publishandpromote.caLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanet-van-breda/YouTube - https://youtube.com/raiseyourvibr8n https://youtube.com/@forthegrandchildrenIn this episode you will learn:1. When we raise our vibration, we naturally influence and uplift those around us which creates a ripple effect of change and why that's important.2.Why creative expression is a path to freedom.3. Why sound healing is a gateway to higher consciousness. “My spiritual awakening was very intense, very abrupt. I started following and studying different healing practices, but each time, Brad, I kept going back to sound, music, sound, music.” - 00:02:56“Human beings change when they feel uncomfortable.” 00:46:57“We've got to have a setback to have a setup for something better sometimes.” 01:07:54

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren Walker sat down with Jill Purce, the Matriarch of the Sheldrake-Purce family, to discuss her work with chanting, healing, and internal family systems. They talked about how sound can help with emotional and spiritual well-being, including how chanting has transformed individuals and families. Jill shared personal stories from her own life and explained how she came to understand the power of vocal practices. She also talked about raising a family alongside her husband, scientist Rupert Sheldrake, and their two children, Merlin and Cosmo, each making their own mark in the world.The conversation covered a range of topics, from the science and spirituality of sound to the impact of internal family systems on relationships. Jill provided practical advice on how to bring chanting into daily life and discussed the connection between ancient traditions and modern healing. This episode offers listeners a chance to understand how sound can be a tool for personal healing and how it shapes the dynamics of family and relationships.The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Energy Works podcast do not necessarily reflect those of the Energy Works hosts or Energy Medicine Yoga employees.What You'll Learn:- How chanting can help with emotional and spiritual well-being.- The role of internal family systems in relationships.- Jill's approach to connecting with both your inner self and the outside world.Key Moments:- Jill's background and work with chanting.- Her personal journey into discovering the power of sound.- The relationship between science and spirituality in sound.- Stories of families healed through vocal practices.- An introduction to the principles of internal family systems.- Tips for integrating chanting into daily life.- The connection between ancient healing practices and modern methods.- Advice for beginners interested in vocal healing.Lauren found this conversation to be a meaningful exploration of sound, family, and healing, and she hopes it offers something valuable for everyone listening.You can learn more about Jill Purce at www.healingvoice.com.

Human relationships are at a crossroads and in this thought-provoking conversation with speaker and author Teal Swan we explore why. Teal unveils how modern dynamics, like the rise of narcissism and the constant influx of social media stimuli, are disrupting our ability to connect with others — and even with ourselves. She dives into the roots of relational dysfunction, tying them to unresolved childhood traumas and societal expectations that stifle authenticity. Offering a fresh perspective on healing, Teal introduces the Completion Process, a method designed to confront suppressed emotions and rebuild connections from a place of true authenticity. If you're ready to examine the deeper forces shaping your relationships and discover tools for transformative growth, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Teal Swan is a New Thought Leader and a Bestselling Author who is an expert in human development and relationships, with a following of over 1M on all social media platforms. She has over a decade of experience working with people of all walks of life with a mission to reduce human suffering. Today, she's also become an International Speaker, having facilitated retreats and life changing workshops in large venues worldwide. Teal was ranked 15th on The Watkins Most Spiritually Influential Living People in 2023. —Teal's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tealswanofficial/  —Teal's Website: https://tealswan.com/  —Teal's Ancestral Healing Course: http://www.markgroves.com/tealswan // Head here to check out the Ancestral Healing Course: https://offers.tealswan.com/ancestral-healing-a and use this link to save $200 when you purchase: http://www.markgroves.com/tealswan —Teal's Books: https://tealswan.com/books/  —Teal's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TealSwanOfficial —Teal's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tealswanofficial Resources: —Ready to transform your relationships? Download The Relationship Toolkit for free and learn the 5 essential skills to thrive in love and life! https://go.markgroves.com/relationship-toolkit-podcast  —Ready to stop chasing emotionally unavailable people? Download your free guide to break the cycle and call in the relationship you crave: https://go.markgroves.com/unavailable-people-opt-in-podcast  —Learn the connection between Attachment Styles, how it affects the Nervous System, AND how you can heal it: .https://go.markgroves.com/nervous-system-opt-in-podcast If you want to dive deeper into Mark's content, search through every episode, find specific topics we've covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://ask.markgroves.com Themes: Teal Swan, Relationships and Trauma, Healing from Trauma, Narcissism and Relationships, Collective Healing, Awakening and Emotional Growth, The Completion Process, Personal Transformation and Healing, Self-Awareness in Relationships, Healing Childhood Trauma, Teal Swan Podcast, Trauma Healing Podcast, Relationship Dynamics and Healing, Self-Awareness in Relationships, Emotional Growth and Awakening, Healing Methods and Personal Transformation, The Completion Process Teal Swan, How to Heal from Childhood Trauma in Relationships, Teal Swan on Narcissism and Relationships, The Completion Process by Teal Swan, Navigating Collective Trauma and Personal Healing, Emotional Growth and Healing with Teal Swan, Overcoming Toxic Relationship Patterns, Healing the Self Through Authenticity This episode is sponsored by: —Cozy Earth: Use code MARK for 40% off sitewide at http://www.cozyearth.com —Mighty Networks: Go to http://www.markgroves.com/mightynetworks to learn how you can create your own community! Contact us at podcast@markgroves.com for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

— To all men who resonate with the Father Wound, remember that you are enough, and you are not responsible for your father's behavior or choices. Acknowledging the impact of the Father Wound is the first step toward healing. It's important to confront your experiences and actively pursue growth and change. Seek out coaching, engage in self-reflection, and build supportive relationships with others who understand your journey. Embrace the healing process as a vital journey toward emotional freedom and well- being. Each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to a healthier future. You have the strength within you to overcome these challenges and cultivate the life and relationships you deserve. Valeria interviews Adam Majrouh — He is a dedicated Father Wound Coach who is passionate about helping men heal their Father Wound and achieve personal transformation.  As a father, grandfather, and father-in-law, he brings a wealth of experience to his coaching practice. With over 30 years of coaching and mentoring experience, including 16 years specifically focused on Father Wound Coaching, he offers a unique perspective, having personally experienced and healed from his own Father Wound. His firsthand experience allows him to provide personalized guidance and support, helping clients find peace, unlock their purpose, transform their finances, and attract meaningful relationships. Through one-to-one coaching sessions, Adam creates a safe and non-judgmental space for growth, exploration, and change. Adam equips his clients with practical tools and strategies to navigate their healing journey, empowering them to take control of their lives. His coaching has a profound impact on clients' relationships, careers, and overall well-being, enabling them to discover a sense of peace and fulfillment. Driven by his personal journey of overcoming obstacles and achieving success, Adam has dedicated himself to studying a diverse array of modalities and techniques related to personal growth, including Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, NLP, and Applied Psychology. He also has a deep interest in spirituality, which plays a significant role in shaping his coaching approach. In 2014, Adam earned three coaching certifications—Practitioner of Excellence, Strategic Intervention Coach, and Marriage Education Coach—through the esteemed Tony Robbins and Cloe Madanes Centre for Strategic Intervention's Coach Training Programmes. His life has transformed remarkably through his roles as a father, grandfather, and father-in-law, igniting a commitment to assist other men who may be experiencing similar pain. This purpose led him to specialize in Father Wound Coaching, providing support to men seeking healing and inner peace. For those ready to tap into his expertise, Adam invites you to book a FREE Discovery Session now! He looks forward to connecting with you! To learn more about Adam Majrouh and his work, please visit: https://adammajrouh.com/

Aloha LOVE Tribe,I am trying a new experiment. Check it out.I LOVE tech and AI and anything that can synthesize data points and help me become a better version of myself more efficiently and effectively.This experiment does not remove or replace the absolute need for proof of work via testing assumptions through experiential learning.I am going through some very intense (like gutwrenching buckle up buttercup WTF intense) challenges as a Mom, woman, friend, lover, and human and had a deep conversation over Pad Thai with a very special person in my life yesterday about parental forgiveness, shame, and LOVE. This person has known me for decades and probably knows me, my history and my family more than almost anyone yet still has limited compassionate understanding of my internal operating system and what is like to live in my skin. NO ONE can ever understand how others operate. No matter how many books, podcasts, courses, degrees, hours of therapy, doses of psychedelics, expert status blah blah - no human can fully understand another and to claim so is BS and dangerous to human connection and peace. So - I am doing a blended post with this experiment with writing and video because I seem to flow better when just talking and I hope it helps you along your journey of self-love, self-forgiveness, self-discovery, and compassion and empathy. BELOW = PERPLEXITYThe Journey to Forgiving Our Parents: A Path to Personal HealingThe complex journey of forgiving our parents stands as one of life's most profound challenges and opportunities for growth. As adults, we come to realize that our parents were simply humans trying to raise other humans, carrying their own wounds and limitations. Understanding Parental ForgivenessForgiveness of our parents isn't about excusing harmful behavior or pretending everything was perfect. Rather, it's about releasing ourselves from the burden of resentment and creating space for healing[1]. This internal process allows us to move forward while acknowledging both the pain and the humanity in our shared story. The Psychology of Parent-Child WoundsThe Impact of Early ExperiencesOur childhood experiences with our parents form the foundation of how we relate to others throughout our lives. Research shows that parental acceptance in childhood significantly influences our ability to forgive as adults[4]. When we experience rejection or hurt from our parents, these wounds can continue to affect us well into adulthood, influencing our relationships and emotional well-being.Breaking Generational Patterns"Forgiveness is the key to resolving the pain of the past and breaking generational patterns. Without it, nothing is ever laid to rest. The past still operates in the present"[1]. This profound truth highlights how unresolved parental issues can perpetuate through generations unless we actively work to heal them. The Benefits of Forgiving ParentsPersonal Growth and HealingResearch indicates that forgiveness has numerous positive effects on individual traits, family relationships, and overall family environment[3]. When we forgive our parents, we:- Experience improved mental and physical health- Develop better relationship skills- Break free from destructive patterns- Create healthier boundaries- Foster emotional maturity Steps Toward Forgiveness1. Understanding Their StoryTake time to learn about your parents' own life experiences and challenges. Understanding the context of their behavior can foster compassion without excusing harmful actions[6]. Consider their own upbringing, struggles, and the societal pressures they faced.2. Acknowledging RealityHave realistic expectations about your parents' capacity for change. Accept that they did the best they could with their available resources, beliefs, and abilities[1]. This doesn't minimize your pain but provides a framework for understanding.3. Finding BalanceFocus on both the challenging and positive aspects of your parents. Create a balanced perspective by:- Identifying their positive characteristics and actions- Acknowledging their human limitations- Recognizing their own unhealed wounds- Understanding the context of their choices[1] The Process of HealingInternal WorkThe journey of forgiveness requires changes in thinking, feeling, and acting. It's a process that demands patience and perseverance[7]. Consider these aspects:Emotional ProcessingWhen we learn to hold space for our true feelings without judgment, we make significant progress toward healing[6]. This includes:- Acknowledging hurt and anger- Processing grief- Releasing resentment- Developing compassionSetting BoundariesForgiveness doesn't mean returning to harmful patterns. Establish healthy boundaries that protect your well-being while allowing for potential healing in the relationship[7]. Moving ForwardCreating New PatternsAs we work through forgiving our parents, we often discover parts of them in ourselves, our relationships, and our parenting styles[6]. This awareness allows us to:- Choose different responses- Break negative cycles- Create healthier relationships- Parent more consciouslyAcceptance and GrowthTrue forgiveness involves radical acceptance of what was and what is[6]. This means:- Accepting the past cannot be changed- Acknowledging your parents' humanity- Recognizing your own growth and healing- Finding peace with imperfection The Impact on Future GenerationsWhen we forgive our parents, we don't just heal ourselves; we create positive change for future generations[5]. This transformation:- Breaks cycles of hurt- Models healthy relationship patterns- Teaches emotional intelligence- Demonstrates the power of forgiveness ConclusionForgiving our parents is a profound act of self-love and healing. It's not about forgetting or excusing, but about freeing ourselves from the weight of past hurts and creating space for growth. As we embrace this journey, we not only heal our own wounds but contribute to breaking generational patterns of pain, creating a legacy of emotional health and wisdom for future generations[1].Remember that forgiveness is a personal journey that unfolds at its own pace. There's no timeline for healing, and the process looks different for everyone. What matters is taking those first steps toward understanding, acceptance, and ultimately, freedom from the past.Citations:[1] https://www.solutionsforresilience.com/forgive-your-parents/[2] https://www.leslieleylandfields.com/blog/slieleylandfields.com/p/forgiving-our-fathers-and-mothers.html[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18211179/[4] https://today.uconn.edu/2024/05/relationship-study-says-parental-acceptance-in-childhood-predicts-ability-to-forgive-as-adults/[5] https://everthinehome.com/how-to-forgive-your-parents/[6] https://www.consciousmommy.com/post/how-to-forgive-your-parents-to-heal-yourself[7] https://extension.umn.edu/divorce-and-other-family-transitions/importance-forgiveness[8] https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/28375300.2024.2310432[9] https://www.crosswalk.com/family/singles/how-to-forgive-your-parents-for-childhood-pain.html

In this heartfelt episode, HeHe is joined by Ana Lepe Vick, a loss mom who courageously shares the story of her son, Owen, and her experience with preventable stillbirth. Together, they shed light on the disparities within the U.S. healthcare system and the critical gaps in care that may have saved Owen's life if Ana's concerns had been taken seriously. You'll learn evidence-based techniques for monitoring your baby's well-being at home, how to effectively communicate concerns to your care team, and ways to get involved in the movement to end preventable stillbirth in the U.S.   Guest Bio: Following a “textbook” perfect pregnancy, Ana and her husband were blindsided by their son, Owen Nathaniel's, unexpected stillbirth. A subsequent, high-risk Pregnancy After Loss with 17 weeks of bedrest eventually blessed them with a healthy, living sibling for their elder daughter thanks to her own personal advocacy. Yet her family's struggles through stillbirth and two subsequent miscarriages before the birth of her second son, resulted in deep emotional birth trauma. Today, Ana channels her trauma into advocacy heading to D.C. regularly to support legislative efforts. She also shares her insights on her personal Instagram @stillmyson*, aiming to spread awareness and empower those facing similar challenges to raise their voices for change. Above all, she fiercely advocates to advance the standard of care for pregnant families. With prior career experience in event planning and media production at E! Entertainment, Ana brings a variety of creative, communications, and project management skills to her work at PUSH. Ana is also the founder of the Sacred Birth Circle podcast, which aims to empower women and families throughout their pregnancy journey, and Creadors De Luz, which provides culturally relevant Spanish-language information to reduce preventable stillbirth within the Latinx/Hispanic population. Ana holds a BA in Psychology from the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA). INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG    Connect with Ana on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Pregnancy After Loss (for practitioners) Course by PUSH Pregnancy    Pregnancy After Loss (for parents) Guide   PUSH Pregnancy   Episode 221: Counting Kicks with Emily Price   PUSH Pregnancy educational material  YOUTUBE LINKS: Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

Join us for an illuminating conversation with Dr. Julia DiGangi, a renowned neuropsychologist and author of "Energy Rising: The Neuroscience of Leading with Emotional Power." Dr. DiGangi shares her extensive experience working with high-profile leaders and organizations, offering a unique perspective on the intricate connection between the brain and behavior, especially under stress. Listen in as we unpack the pivotal role of emotional power in leadership, emphasizing that effective leadership often falters when emotions become overwhelming. Dr. DiGangi simplifies emotions into two states: pain and power, highlighting the universal language of emotions. She underscores the importance of mastering personal emotions to lead others effectively and creating emotional experiences within ourselves before expecting them from others. This episode is packed with practical advice and engaging storytelling, offering a fresh look at how we can harness our emotional power. Explore the transformative potential of navigating challenging emotions as catalysts for personal growth and empowerment. Dr. DiGangi discusses how to intelligently work with anxiety, stress, and other emotions to build resilience and influence. We touch on the importance of facing emotional pain with intention and aligning with one's values to foster long-term strength and resilience. Through powerful examples and practical insights, Dr. DiGangi illustrates how embracing discomfort and uncertainty can lead to profound personal and professional growth. Don't miss this compelling discussion on mastering emotional power in leadership and creating a conscious relationship with ourselves for true healing and creativity. What You'll Learn: • What it means to lead with emotional power • The journey from pain to power • How to successfully navigate our emotional energy • Turning stress and anxiety into leadership power. • Building resilience through emotional mastery. • Practical advice on navigating challenging feelings like anxiety and stress. • The importance of intentionality and alignment with personal values. • The concept of a "power pattern" to maintain emotional control in any situation. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - (00:00) The Genesis of Energy Rising (06:22) - What Is Emotional Power? (21:06) - Leveraging Anxiety and Stress as Catalysts for Empowerment (30:25) - Transform Pain into Power (35:27) - Navigating Uncertainty Through Focusing on Identity (44:06) - The Power of Intention More of Julia: Dr. Julia DiGangi is a renowned expert in the intricate connection between the brain, emotions, and relationships, empowering individuals to lead more fulfilling and emotionally intelligent lives. With extensive research experience in fMRI and EEG, her work has explored stress and resilience, conducted at prestigious institutions like Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. Dr. DiGangi has also applied her scientific expertise to high-stakes environments, advising leaders at the White House, top global corporations, and Special Forces. Through her powerful insights, she helps people unlock new dimensions of emotional strength in the face of life's defining challenges. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliadigangi/ Website: https://substack.com/@drjuliadigangi Mentions: Energy Rising: The Neuroscience of Leading with Emotional Power by Dr. Julia DiGangi  Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Neuropsychologist, Emotional Power, Managing Stress, Harvard Business Review Press, Emotional Intelligence, Personal Effectiveness, Self-Leadership, Dealing with Pain, Overcoming Maximizing Resilience, Dealing with Rejection, Personal Healing, Leading with Courage, Creating Alignment, Honoring Our Values, Growth Mindset, Navigating Uncertainty, Reducing Overthinking, Overworking, Overgiving, Managing Fear, Emotional Leadership, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Every day, in every interaction, we are transmitting energy to those around us—our kids, our family, our friends take on a bit of what we are giving. So how can we transform the energy of anxiety, hurt, frustration and more so that we can add more peace into our lives? Hunter talks to Marisela B. Gomez about the power of mindfulness and self care to heal. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter's books, blog posts, free resources, and more at MindfulMamaMentor.com. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/ We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on our website: /mindfulmamamentor.com/mindful-mama-podcast-sponsors/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices