The Chronically Courageous, where chronic illness warriors come to feel empowered and uplifted. Listen each week to be inspired by others who have found happiness and peace, despite the physical and emotional tolls of chronic illness. Together, we navigate this complex journey and move forward with courage, passion, and purpose!
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Join Bonni as she gets personal about all things EDS, with filmmaker and EDS warrior Jen Kain. They discuss Jen's upcoming documentary, "Exhausted Existence: An EDS Story”, which explores living with chronic illness through a therapeutic lens.
Bonni and Jen share tears and laughs as they discuss their common struggles, coping strategies, and what keeps them going through it all. They talk about mental health, dynamic disability, living with unpredictability, societal judgments, and other tribulations of living with a chronic, invisible illness.
One needn't have EDS or HSD to appreciate this conversation or the film's premise, as it’s relatable to anyone living with chronic illness or who knows someone with a chronic health condition.
Film Website: https://www.goodstuff-story.co/exhuas...
Film Trailer: https://vimeo.com/897950041
Contribute to the film: https://www.goodstuff-story.co/donate
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Having a chronic illness can bring about so many challenges, not only physical but also social, emotional, and psychological. We deserve to have certain rights to thrive despite these challenges! This is where the "Chronic Illness Warriors' Bill of Rights" comes in.
Last week, Bonni talked about the first five of the eleven principles that she believes people with chronic illness should embrace to live more happy and full lives. This week, Bonni continues that discussion, revealing the last six principles.
She learned each principle through much trial and error and now wants to share them with you so that you can live life more fully despite your chronic illness.
This is part two of a two-part episode. If you missed part one, you can find it on audio or video at the links below.
YouTube
Spotify
Apple
Bonni loves hearing from her audience, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to her on her socials below: :
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Over a lifetime of living with chronic illness, Bonni has learned that people with chronic illnesses have many physical, social, emotional, and psychological challenges. They deserve to have certain rights so they can better manage and navigate all their challenges. This "Chronic Illness Warriors' Bill of Rights", lays out eleven principles that Bonni tries to live by. She learned each of these through a lot of trial and error and now she wants to share them with you to make your lives more full, happy, peaceful, and equitable.
This is part one of a two-part episode, so please set your notifications to be alerted when part two is released.
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This week Bonni returns to the mic after a long hiatus and much self-reflection. In honor of May being EDS Awareness Month, she sits down with Samantha Brechner to talk about the raw and real ways that having Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome has affected each of their lives.
You’ll hear the following and more:
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This week Bonni continues to celebrates one year of podcasting with a look back at the most life changing lessons of the past year. Listen to hear some of the most profound teachings from the last year of The Chronically Courageous podcast.
Please listen to the end for an important announcement about where the podcast is headed and follow Bonni on social media using the links below for updates of what is to come.
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This week Bonni celebrates one year of podcasting with a look back at the most life changing lessons of the past year. Listen to hear some of the most profound teachings from the last year of The Chronically Courageous podcast.
Things You’ll Hear About in this Episode:
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This week Bonni answers listeners’ questions about how to navigate the healing journey. Tune in to find out how Bonni answers the following listener questions:
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This week Bonni is joined by her fiancé, David Pinkus to talk about the importance of recognizing and celebrating progress over perfection throughout the healing journey. With some recent health challenges resurfacing, they discuss how to recognize and identify progress from a 50,000 foot level vs. focusing on the day-to-day ups and downs.
Bonni and David hone in on their recent travels, acknowledging the very real challenges that can arise when traveling with chronic illness, but the very tangible wins that they both recognized in Bonni’s ability to travel now vs. before she embarked on her healing journey.
Join Bonni and David as they celebrate Bonni's progress and share tips on how to track and recognize your own progress as you continue to strive for greater health.
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This week Bonni shares about her recent recurrence of symptoms and how she has been managing through them. She provides ten tools and techniques on how to gracefully navigate the sometimes inevitably bumpy journey of healing from chronic illness.
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It has been nearly a year since Bonni launched The Chronically Courageous podcast, so she wanted to share her story with any new listeners and also catch her loyal listeners up on what she foresees for her future and the future of the show.
Bonni was recently interviewed on The Lawyer of Attraction podcast and thought what better way to share where she’s been and where she sees herself going than to share her recent interview.
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Paula asks Bonni:
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As an infant, Paul was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a medical condition that causes paralysis of one side of the body. His mother was told he would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of his life, but she refused to accept that prognosis and made it her mission to find a specialist that was willing to help.
After many grueling years of intense physical therapy and a life changing surgery Paul not only learned to walk, but went on to play varsity level baseball in high school. Despite all of the challenges put before him, he had the perseverance and mindset to overcome it all.
Today Paul is a successful life coach and he teaches others to rewrite their stories, just as he did, so that they can live their best lives.
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Paul:
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This week, Bonni talks about the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life and how being of service to others can positively impact your own life. Bonni shares how, through podcasting, she has found so much healing because it has provided her with a platform to support, inspire, and heal others.
Bonni also shares a conversation she had with her podcasting mentor, Michelle Sorro, which highlights the many ways in which her podcasting and healing journeys have been interconnected.
If you have ever considered starting your own podcast, now is the time to register for a free Master Class being offered by Bonni’s mentor (link in the Show Resources below).
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In part two of this two part episode, Fusun Rynart shares the story of her daughter’s tragic motorcycle accident and how she helped her to get to the other side of it. Bonni and Fusun also discuss the power of gratitude and how the energy we surround ourselves with directly and profoundly impacts our lives. They also discuss the various ways in which we can sabotage our physical and mental health with the personas that we embody, such as people pleaser, control freak, and more.
Fusuan, founder of Life Healing Academy, is an expert in emotional healing with 14 years of experience and proven success stories. She is a Licensed NLP Master, a workshop Content Creator and Motivational Speaker. Over the years, she has been trained by world famous mentors like Dr Richard Bandler, Tony Robbins, Les Brown, Robin Sharma, Byron Katie, Gregg Braden, and Dr Eric Pearl.
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Fusun:
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*Register for the Free Podcast Accelerator Master Class*
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Founder of Life Healing Academy, Fusun left a successful corporate sales career of over 20 years to dedicate her life to helping people heal their emotions and boost self confidence for success.
She first discovered her gifts for being able to physically heal others when she helped her father to walk again. Today, her holistic approach and neuro-linguistic programming expertise focuses on transforming fears and negative beliefs into a positive and empowering mindset as a basis for healing people.
An expert in emotional healing with 14 years of experience with proven success stories, Licensed NLP Master, as well as workshop Content Creator and Motivational Speaker. Over the years, she is trained by world famous mentors like Dr Richard Bandler, Tony Robbins, Les Brown, Robin Sharma, Byron Katie, Gregg Braden, Dr Eric Pearl, just to name a few.
In this episode, Fusun shares how she discovered her unique abilities to heal people and how following her passion and purpose transformed her own life and the lives of people she has worked with.
Some things you’ll learn about Fusun:
Some questions Bonni asks Fusun:
Connect with Fusun:
Register for the Free Podcast Accelerator Master Class
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Paula Kidd Casey had been a practicing family law attorney for over 40 years and was one of the first women in the midwest to open a private law firm. Like many driven entrepreneurs, Paula spent years pursuing money and success at the expense of her health and peace of mind. After realizing her professional life was not bringing her joy and fulfillment, she spent years trying to define her passion and then searching for ways to achieve it. Thousands of hours of study later, she discovered a life-changing theory, The Natural Laws of the Universe.
Today, she lives her passion based on these magical, yet scientifically proven, concepts.. Paula is a sought-after speaker and consultant for successful professionals, individuals searching for more joy, and everyone who might be seeking greater balance, happiness,and peace in their lives, but most importantly, who are seeking a path to realizing their own passion and reigniting the magic.
Tune in to learn how The Law of Attraction can transform your health and life!
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Paula:
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As a medical doctor, Dr. Kumar-Singh experienced the limitations of traditional medicine. She left her career in emergency medicine to begin a 20-year journey to study, research and experience traditional healing systems from a wide range of cultures.
She was led to become a practitioner of the 5,000 year old ancient healing tradition known as Ayurveda. Dr. Kumar-Singh has used Ayurveda to transform her own life and the lives of many of her patients, students, family, and friends.
Avanti has shared her expertise with Fortune 500 companies, elite undergraduate and graduate institutions, and at prestigious industry and medical conferences. She has been featured in the Huffington Post, Thrive Global and Mind Body Green and served as the co-lead facilitator of the Faculty Scholars Program in Integrative Healthcare at the OSHER Center for Integrative Medicine at Northwestern Medicine.
In this episode Dr. Kumar-Singh shares the premises upon which Ayurveda is based and some practical advice that we can all implement to take control of our health.
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Dr. Kumar-Singh:
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This week Bonni shares vulnerably about the ups and downs of her healing journey, She talks about the valuable lessons she's learning as she continues to walk this very non-linear path toward wellness.
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Sarah Small, otherwise known as The Uncensored Empath, was a self-described “sponge to the universe’s problems”. Her highly empathetic nature caused her to take on the emotions of everyone around her. She believes there is a strong connection between emotion and chronic illness and like so many others, all of her deeply felt emotions manifested into physical illness.
Diagnosed with stomach migraines at the age of seven and then anxiety, fibromialgia, celiac disease and other autoimmune conditions later in life, she learned and applied a multitude of healing modalities to herself.
Today, Sarah is a thriving life and success coach for other empaths. She teaches healing modalities such as emotional freedom technique, nervous system retraining, breathwork, and more. Sarah is a wealth of knowledge, as you’ll hear in this conversation. Enjoy!
Some things you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Sarah:
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Natali Križan was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease as a young girl. She went through years of disabling pain, eventually leading to surgical removal of two meters of her colon. Despite the challenges of her diagnosis, Natali immersed herself in self development. She went on to become an expert on mindset through years of training under Tony Robbins. Natali is now a certified fitness and personal trainer with ten certifications and 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. Today, Natali helps people to identity and work on limiting beliefs and patterns that are keeping them stuck. She believes that when you are in shape mentally, physically, and emotionally you have the focus, strength, and resources to accomplish anything! Listen to hear how Natali overcame her diagnosis, learning to nourish her mind and body and claim the greatest measure of wealth, HER HEALTH.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Boanni asks Natali:
Connect with Natali:
Show Resources:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This episode is captivating, mesmerizing, and filled with hope for anyone who has been told what they can’t do.
As just fifteen years old, Joy flew off a cliff on a motorbike and was declared dead on an operating table. Nine later she was hit by a drunk driver and suffered both internal and external injuries. She was told by doctors that her leg needed to be amputated and that she wouldn’t live past 30 years of age.
At the time of recording this conversation on December 28th, 2020, Joy was twice the age she was told she’d live to, 60 years old. And by the way, not only did she keep her leg, but she became a medal winning ballroom and Latin dancer.
Joy lives by the words “incurable only means curable from within” and claims that her perspective is her superpower. She is a published author certified in over a dozen healing modalities. Joy now teaches others to “reprogram their brains for optimal levels of productivity and JOY”. In addition she teaches how to clear stress in three minutes or less, dissolve emotional trauma painlessly, and experience JOY regardless of circumstances.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Boanni asks Joy:
Connect with Joy:
Website: https://experiencejoy.com/
Show Resources:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Adam Kruger, had a picture perfect life until the age of thirteen, when some personal events threw him into a downward spiral of stress and illness. At the age of fourteen, he found himself in the most excruciating, debilitating pain of his life, leaving him unable to keep food in his body. After a year of searching for answers, he was diagnosed with Duodenal Crohn's Disease.
Through various modalities and lifestyle changes, Adam managed to get his symptoms under control and went on to create a very full and satisfying life. Adam has worn many hats including TV host, inspirational speaker, podcaster, and executive coach, but his biggest measure of success is how he is able to make a difference in the lives of others.
Adam truly embodies the name of his podcast, Enhanced Living, and in this episode shares so many strategies to help us all live a more enhanced life.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Boanni asks Adam:
Connect with Adam:
Website: https://www.theadamkruger.com/
Enhanced Living Podcast: https://www.theadamkruger.com/podcast-1
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1472827032897144
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadamkruger/
Show Resources:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Keri Faith suffered with chronic pain from the young age of three. It took a lot of patience, perseverance, and an open mind to discover the root cause and ultimately the solution to healing her pain.
After suffering for close to 40 years, Keri Faith learned to shift her ways of thinking and moving through life. She is now an author, coach, podcaster, and speaker living a life in alignment with her true purpose.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Keri Faith:
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Show Resources:
The Havening Technique: https://www.havening.org/about-havening/faqs
Pillars to Positivity Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Positivity-Transforming-Self-Doubt-Self-Belief-ebook/dp/B0874QSFR8
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Jennifer, who started her career as an attorney over 25 years ago, never would have predicted that she would be led to energy healing. Her quest for answers to her childrens’ severe, anaphylactic allergies and autoimmunity sent her on a journey of seeing doctor after doctor. Her final hope was something she never thought she’d explore, but desperate for answers she began to explore Allergy Release Technique, Emotion Code, and other lesser known healing modalities.
She saw such dramatic results with her childrens’ healing that she felt called to bring such healing to more people and sought out formal training as an Emotion Code/Body Code practitioner. She now lives in such an elevated state of gratitude for being able to help people to overcome chronic pain, illness anxiety, depression, asthma, and more!
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Jennifer:
Connect with Jennifer:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Sinead was experiencing severe stomach pain and was told it was nothing serious, but she persisted until the doctor’s finally agreed to give her a colonoscopy. She was heartbroken to awaken to the news that she had undergone emergency surgery to remove a large portion of her cancerous bowel, leaving her reliant upon a colostomy bag. For years, she was dependent upon family to help with her young daughter as she was in and out of the hospital.
Sinead’s story of healing is truly remarkable. She is now in good health and living a life where she helps others to discover their soul’s purpose and heal from various physical and mental health conditions. This episode is loaded with wisdom about root causes of illness and the steps that can be taken to heal from deep, traumatic wounds.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Sinead:
Connect with Sinead:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week Bonni responds to several questions posed by her listeners.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Here’s how to leave an rating and review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS device)1. Open the Podcasts app 2. Choose “Search” from the bottom row of icons and enter The Chronically Courageous 3. Select the show under Podcasts (not under Podcast Episodes) 4. Underneath the header information, choose “Reviews” (the middle of three screen options) 5. Click “Write a Review” in the center of the screen. You’ll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale and write a review
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week listen in as Bonni talks to her fiancé, David Pinkus, about her recent time away to focus on healing at a deeper level. You will learn what she discovered about herself, the impact of childhood trauma on her physical health, and some steps that she took toward healing more deeply that you can take too!
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions David asks Bonni
Show Resources:
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: If you are one of the first 10 people to review The Chronically Courageous Podcast and send a screenshot of it to Bonni at bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com she will mail you a signed copy of “Shattered Together”, a best selling book written by Bonni’s guest, Cathleen Elle, from episode #26.Here’s how to leave an rating and review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS device)1. Open the Podcasts app 2. Choose “Search” from the bottom row of icons and enter The Chronically Courageous 3. Select the show under Podcasts (not under Podcast Episodes) 4. Underneath the header information, choose “Reviews” (the middle of three screen options) 5. Click “Write a Review” in the center of the screen. You’ll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale and write a review
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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How incredible would it be to find chronic pain relief that didn’t involve addictive narcotics or surgery? This week Bonni sits down with board certified neurologist and founder of the The Center for Complex Neurology, EDS, and POTS, Dr. David Saperstein to discuss a state of the art solution for chronic pain.
Listen to find out how Calmare uses scrambler therapy to provide long lasting and highly effective pain relief for cancer pain, peripheral neuropathy, and chronic neuropathic pain.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Dr. Saperstein:
Connect with Dr Saperstein:
Show Resources:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Born with multiple disabilities, Vera-Lee Curnow always knew she was different. Through sheer determination, she became an elite athlete excelling in tennis, but always wondered why she had to work much harder than her peers.
Diagnosed with Osgood Schlatters, eosinophilic asthma, and vocal cord dysfunction, Vera-Lee was told at the age of 30 that she would not have much longer to live. Once again she took matters into her own hands and was determined not to accept that as her fate.
Today, Vera-Lee is using the voice that she both physically and proverbially lost to lead the Why Me Movement, a place that allows others to experience the healing power of sharing their stories.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Vera-Lee:
Connect with Vera-Lee:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week Bonni has an inspiring and heartwarming conversation with international best selling author, Cathleen Elle. Cathleen vulnerably shares the tragic story of losing her teenage son to suicide and how she managed find a greater sense of purpose through this tragedy. This is a story that will simultaneously break and warm your heart.
Although the cause of Cathleen’s trauma may be different than that of chronic illness survivors, she shares a universal wisdom for trauma and grief healing. Please listen through to the end of the episode to find out how you can become eligible to receive a signed copy of Cathleen’s newly released best selling book, “Shattered Together”.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Cathleen:
Connect with Cathleen:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week, meet Bonni’s personal health coach, Mollie Lowery. Mollie has been and continues to be instrumental in Bonni’s healing journey. Combining modalities such as breathwork, brain rewiring, energy healing, nutrition, and more Mollie’s approach to healing is holistic and multidimensional.
Prepare to hear some raw, deeply vulnerable moments that come up for Bonni as she shares some of the revelations she’s had about her illness. Learn about the healing techniques and mindset shifts that have enabled Bonni to make dramatic strides in her healing.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Mollie:
Connect with Mollie:
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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October is Dysautonomia Awareness Month. Dysautonomia is mild for some people and completely disabling for others. Imagine having to think about all of the bodily functions you take for granted….breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion and more. Dysautonomia causes a dysregulation of all of the functions that so many of us take for granted. The result can be debilitating.
Join me as I have conversations with Marina Lombardi, Valerie Rose, and Samantha Brechner, who each live with dysautonomia. Hear how it has impacted each of them and how they have found ways to manage their symptoms.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Marina, Valerie, and Sam:
Show Resources:
Learn more about dysautonomia: http://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week I had the honor of speaking with Lara Bloom, President and CEO of The Ehlers-Danlos Society. This year she was also appointed Academic Affiliate Professor of Practice in Patient Engagement and Global Collaboration at Penn State College of Medicine. Lara is an expert in patient engagement and advocacy for rare, chronic, and invisible conditions as well as an international public speaker and campaigner.
Lara is all of the aforementioned things, but also a patient who lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, dysautonomia, and other comorbid conditions. Lara’s story is both inspiring and impressive, as she has managed to accomplish so much despite her health challenges.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Lara:
Connect with Lara:
Show Resources:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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There are so many things that I’ve learned on my healing journey. I have uncovered things that I never considered might be contributing to my ailing health. Because I am on a mission to help all of you heal and live your best lives, I share some lesser known things that may be contributing to your illness and how you can avoid them.
Some Things You Will Learn:
Show Resources:
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week’s episode is a little different from the norm. My friend of 24 years, Judy Venezia, is navigating some new and existing diagnoses so I took the opportunity to answer some questions for her in hopes of providing her some additional tools to make her journey a little less challenging.
Before being forced into retirement due to her health, Judy spent 25 years juggling caring for her three children and her many patients as a pediatric and emergency room registered nurse. Now the tables are turned and it’s time for Judy to let others care for her. I hope you enjoy this informal girl talk between Judy and I.
Some Questions Judy Asks Bonni:
Show Resources:
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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When we are dealing with a chronic illness or disability, it can be easy to slip into the pattern of focusing on what we can’t do. Please stop doing this!
This week’s episode is all about shifting that focus and learning how to recognize yourself for even the smallest wins. If you’re feeling down or defeated, my hope is that you will walk away from this episode feeling more empowered and uplifted.
Please follow and tag me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/ and let me know at least one win that you’ve had recently and how you intend to celebrate that win. Let’s celebrate together!
Some Things You Will Learn:
Show Resources:
Out of Milk app: https://www.outofmilk.com/
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Christina Rice is a living example of overcoming all odds. Having mystery illnesses all of her life, she feverishly searched for answers as her organs began to shut down and her weight dropped to a frail 73 pounds.
Fighting for her life, she took matters into her own hands and explored healing modalities such as brain rewiring, energy healing, and tapping into her intuition. Today, she is stable and healthy and has a thriving high six figure coaching business helping others to break through their limiting beliefs and heal physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Christina:
Connect with Christina:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Parenting can be laden with the guilt of not being able to give our kids a picture perfect life. As a disabled parent with limited energy, financial resources, and/or mobility this guilt can be compounded. Studies have shown, however, that children raised by parents with disabilities can actually gain valuable life skills beyond those of their peers. In this episode, Bonni discusses the various benefits to children being raised by a chronically ill or disabled parent.
Show Resources:
Connect with Bonni:
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bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week’s guest is truly AMAZING! He has not only survived, but thrived through two heart attacks and four stents. Being a successful tax accountant all of his life, he realized that money was not the end all be all and that happiness goes much deeper than our pockets.
Lindsay is now embracing the second act of his life as fellow podcaster, coach/mentor, speaker, and leader of “The Amazing Challenge”. Interested in finding out more about Lindsay’s challenge and how he makes each day amazing for not only himself, but for those who are lucky enough to be in his presence? Tune into this week’s episode for an inspiring, heart warming story sprinkled with nuggets of wisdom for how to live every day to the fullest.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Lindsay:
Connect with Linsday:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Marina:
Connect with Marina:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
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This week’s episode is the continuation of Sidney DeCamella’s story from last week, when we learned how her struggle with infertility fueled her passion for becoming a life coach.
Sidney finally conceived her son after three rounds of IVF, but his birth was anything but easy. She struggled through a long labor, followed by several complications, kidney failure, and a rare diagnosis. All of this resulted in a month-long hospital stay.
In today’s episode we find out what life is now like for Sidney and how she continues to rise to every challenge that comes her way. From the perspective of a professional life coach and a new mother managing multiple chronic health issues, Sidney shares her incredible strength and wisdom.
Connect with Sidney:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
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EP. 013 The Chronically Courageous Podcast
Title: Sidney DeCamella | Finding Her Life’s Purpose Through Infertility, Kidney Failure, and a Rare Diagnosis (Part One)
Sidney wanted more than anything to be a mother, but never imagined the challenges she would come up against trying. Her story had so many twists and turns, including a rare diagnosis and kidney failure, that I decided to divide it into two episodes. I hope you will be as moved as I was by Sidney’s story of perseverance, strength, and the inner fire she developed to pursue her life’s purpose.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Sidney:
Connect with Sidney:
lovelifeenterprises2@gmail.com
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
EP. 012 Perspective is Everything
Title: Perspective is Everything
These past couple of weeks I’ve done a lot of work on myself. In this episode I share some of the learnings from an intense and incredible week of self development.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
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If you need some inspiration to keep moving forward you’ll want to hear this episode. Jana Greene has lived through childhood trauma, addiction, single motherhood, and chronic illness. Despite the stacking of challenges that came her way, she pushed through and created a happy and fulfilled life. She is on the precipice of celebrating 20 years of sobriety and has a thirteen year marriage that’s still in the honeymoon phase.
Just one month ago Jana had her third book published. The book, entitled “FIERCE Recovery: Living Your Best Sober Life Now”, provides an empowering message with a humorous slant. Tune in to this episode to learn how Jana continues to enjoy life fully despite its challenges.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Jana:
Connect with Jana:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MyFierceRecovery
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
Books
Blog
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The global pandemic, awakening to racial inequity, and political division happening in our world right now can make it a challenge to maintain a positive mindset. And we all know that a depressed emotional state can directly impact our physical well being.
In this episode you’ll learn some actionable steps and tools that I’ve found helpful for keeping my mood elevated even in the most challenging of situations. I truly hope that you find some useful nuggets here to get you through the global challenges as well as any personal challenges you’re facing today.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Feeling hopeless and stuck in the thoughts that you may never heal? I felt the same way until I met this week’s guest, Rachel Barber. Rachel had exhausted all options, combining techniques from both Eastern and Western medicine. She was at her wits end and in a major state of depression at the thought of having to live the rest of her life being sick.
This week Rachel shares her incredible story of perseverance and determination. She tells us how she went from having fibromyalgia, SIBO, mitochondrial dysfunction, hypoglycemia, and more to achieving a level of health and happiness beyond her wildest dreams.
Rachel is the founder of Total Healing, a program designed to help the sick self heal and take back their lives through the power of the mind. She has established a following of over 41,000 on Instagram, where she shares her story and the testimonials of other women she has healed.
Skeptical? I was too, but please keep an open mind and listen to this episode to hear about a method of healing that may be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Some things that you’ll learn:
Some questions Bonni asks Rachel:
Connect with Rachel:
https://www.instagram.com/therachelbarber/
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
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While getting ready to have her first book published, two years ago, Janna Lopez felt that something was off. At the age of 51, she learned that this feeling was not imagined, rather it was the result of having several lesions on her brain caused by Multiple Sclerosis.
In this episode, Janna uses her gift for verbal expression to convey the emotions that accompanied her diagnosis, how she has learned to manage her illness, and how she is moving forward with courage and purpose.
Janna is a published author, public speaker, midlife coach, and podcast host. Formerly, she was a successful magazine publisher and a communications consultant serving small businesses, non-profits, and multi-million dollar companies. Her life’s work has revolved around the art of expression through words and images.
Janna has a beautiful way of seeing the world and believes that in this time of a global pandemic, "it is the mundane that will save us". Her way of seeing the beauty in the simplest of things was a breath of fresh air in a time of great complexity.
What You’ll Learn:
Some Questions Bonni asks Janna:
Connect with Janna:
https://www.jannalopez.com/
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
Janna’s Book, “Me, My Selfie and Eye” https://www.amazon.com/Me-My-Selfie-Eye-Conversation-ebook/dp/B083G2J7PQ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=janna+lopez&qid=1578510891&sr=8-1
Eyedentity Talk with Janna Lopez Podcast: https://www.jannalopez.com/eyedentity-talk-with-janna-lopez/
My Mundane Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2951698238245582/
Organ Delight Supplement:
https://www.drrons.com/p/27-Organ-Delight-grassfed-New-Zealand-freeze-dried-organs-glands-180-capsules.aspx
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EP. 006 The Chronically Courageous Podcast
Jini didn’t always respect her need for rest and renewal and for years she ignored her body’s signals. She went on to earn her Master's degree in Counseling followed by the study of various healing modalities at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts.
Like many chronic illness warriors, she remained invalidated and undiagnosed for years after the onset of her symptoms. Her persistence finally led her to multiple diagnoses including myalgic encephalomyelitis, hemochromatosis, and late stage neurological Lyme disease.
In addition to her health challenges, she endured several life-altering traumas, including the recent loss of her home and its contents in the Paradise, California Camp Fire.
In this episode, Jini and Bonni discuss the correlation between trauma and health. Jini explains how she uses “The Work” of Byron Katie, as one of several ways to maintain her loving heart and keep a grateful outlook.
Today Jini is a highly awakened soul, who shares her gifts through writing, teaching, and energy work. Her primary objective is to help others discover thier gifts and to assist in raising the collective vibration of the world.
What You’ll Learn:
Questions Bonni asks Jini:
Connect with Jini:
https://www.facebook.com/healingwithhigherself/
Connect with Bonni:
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
Show Resources:
Jini’s published article in The Mighty: https://themighty.com/2017/08/moving-slowly-chronic-illness/
The Work of Byron Katie:
https://thework.com/instruction-the-work-byron-katie/
Learn more about Myalgic Encephalomyelitis:
https://www.meaction.net/about/what-is-me/
Learn more about Hemochromatosis:
https://www.hemochromatosis.org/#overview
Learn more about Lyme Disease:
https://globallymealliance.org/about-lyme/diagnosis/stages/
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Dating can be challenging under any circumstances, but chronic illness can add another level of complexity. Many people have questions about when it’s appropriate to bring up the subject of chronic illness and what to share in a new relationship.
This week Bonni and her fiancé, David Pinkus, discuss how they navigated dating early in their relationship. They talk about some of their challenges and how they've accommodated their differences in ability without having to sacrifice the things that are important to them.
What You’ll Learn:
Some Questions Bonni asks David:
Connect with Bonni:
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
EP. 004 The Chronically Courageous Podcast
Title: Bonni Howard | A Vulnerable Announcement
This week Bonni makes a special, highly vulnerable announcement regarding her health and how it impacts her ability to put out a weekly podcast. Since May is Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month, she also talks about how being born with this genetic condition has affected her life.
What You’ll Learn:
Connect with Bonni:
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
EP. 003 The Chronically Courageous Podcast
Title: Dawn Hassmann | Finding my Voice
Dawn Hassmann has had chronic health issues since the age of three. She was initially misdiagnosed, but, through self-advocacy, she found answers. Being diagnosed with multiple autoimmune conditions, she is dedicated to advocating for both herself and others as a leader of the Lupus LA support group.
In this episode, we hear about how early childhood trauma caused Dawn to feel as though she didn’t have a voice. She explains how pursuing an education in EFT Tapping, and later becoming a certified EFT practitioner, helped her manage her health and find her voice. You won’t want to miss Dawn’s inspiring story!
What You’ll Learn:
Questions Bonni asks Dawn:
Connect with Dawn to learn more about EFT tapping
https://www.dawnhypnotherapy.com/
dawn@dawnhypnotherapy.com
https://www.facebook.com/DawnHypnotherapy/
Contact Dawn and mention The Chronically Courageous podcast for a discount on EFT Tapping.
Connect with Bonni:
bonni@thechronicallycorageous.com
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Yvette McCue was working twelve hour days, while taking care of her ailing father and three children. It was in her nature to put everyone’s needs ahead of her own, until her health took a dramatic downward turn. The tables were then turned, as she was forced to rely upon a wheelchair for mobility and the help of her family and friends for basic daily needs.
In this episode, we learn how Yvette found healing through a variety of modalities, including Qigong. She shares her inspiring story of transformation and her newfound purpose, as a certified Qigong instructor. We discuss how chronic illness changes one’s perspective and the gratitude she now has for things she was moving too fast to notice before.
What You’ll Learn:
Questions Bonni asks Yvette:
Connect with Yvette to learn more about and to sign up for her Qigong class.
https://www.instagram.com/qigong_healwithin/
qigonghealwithin@gmail.com
Connect with Bonni:
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
As someone who was told my symptoms were “all in my head” for over 40 years, I have so much empathy, compassion, and love in my heart for others who have been through a similar journey. I want to be a voice for people with chronic illness and rare diseases so that they feel more validated and better understood.
The Chronically Courageous podcast will be a safe place where people can feel a sense of community and inspiration. The show will also provide resources for living more fully.
I’m your host, Bonni Howard, and just like many of you listening to this podcast, I’ve lived with chronic pain and other life-altering symptoms from the time I was a child. I did my best to push through my pain. I became a mom, built a successful career, and led an active life until I could no longer ignore my symptoms. It took over 40 years, but I finally got my diagnoses and have spent the past five years learning to accept, embrace, and live the life I’ve been given with courage, passion, and purpose.
My mission is to embrace and uplift those living with chronic illnesses and rare diseases, as well as their loved ones, so that we can all move toward a more fulfilled and happy life.
In this first episode, I take the guest seat as my fiancé, David, takes over as host.
I did this because I feel it’s important that you understand my journey, and why launching this podcast is so close to my heart. We discuss things such as the emotional toll of having chronic, rare illnesses, the importance of self advocacy, how my career aspirations were affected, and how I intend to use my experience to help others.
I experience pain and a variety of other symptoms daily. That said, every moment of pain will have been worth it if I can use my experience to help you to feel supported, heard, validated, and put on a path to living your best life!
I look forward to taking this journey with you and I will continue sending you love, happiness, and healing every step of the way.
What You’ll Learn:
Questions David asks:
Connect with Bonni:
bonni@thechronicallycourageous.com
https://www.facebook.com/bonni.howard
https://www.instagram.com/thechronicallycourageous/
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.