Love What Matters Presents: Your Story with Colin Balfe: Recent Episodes

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In today’s world of continuous negative news coverage, it can be hard to remember there is a lot of good in life. Love What Matters Presents: Your Story with Colin Balfe brings inspiring stories from real people far & wide to share love, kindness and compassion, and to remind us that good things don’t happen by default – they’re a daily choice that we make.

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In this episode, Tracey and Elizabeth talk about Elizabeth’s abusive childhood and how her teenage years turned into being a human trafficking victim. Elizabeth details much of her experience with drug use, how she was groomed by predators, and ultimately how she used these three necessary steps to successfully create a whole new life for herself. Disclaimer: This story contains details of self-harm, abuse, human trafficking, and drug use that may be triggering to some “No matter what you've had to endure, you have what it takes to rise above it all and become the person you want to be.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Introduction to the episode trailer with guest Elizabeth Quiroz

[0:17] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[1:04] RYK guest, Elizabeth shares the beginning of her childhood abuse 

[2:47] I didn't know what consent was. I didn't know what good touches, bad touches were. I just knew that any attention was good attention.

[7:07] Question: Elizabeth, how would you go about asking such a sensitive question such as “are you okay?” without wanting to offend or seeming intrusive? 

[9:21] Warning Signs of Human Trafficking 

[11:15] Question: You were 15 soon to be turning 16.. And running away. What does that look like?

[12:10] Question: Was he grooming you? Did he know what he was doing or was he just honestly wanting a girlfriend?

[15:29] Language of human traffickers 

[21:10] “Eventually at the age of 26, I got arrested for the last time”...

[22:20] Purified in the Flame

[23:07] Question: How did you go from that life to the one you have now?

[23:27] The turning point… and 3 necessary steps to successfully create new patterns in your life

[24:54] Question: How was it that you took this pain and you turned it into purpose and you turned it into helping others?

[25:23] Women's Recovery Services

[26:07] Question: Who might be more at risk for human trafficking?

[27:53] Question: What ways do traffickers get their victims? 

[29:49] Question: What are some of the signs that we can look for, maybe with someone who is involved with human trafficking?

[32:15] Question: If someone is dealing with sex trafficking, where can they go for help?

[32:54] To report a suspected trafficking situation, call the BCA at 1-877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us. 

[34:07] Question: Can you tell us about your foundation, Redemption House of the Bay?

[34:43] Julie Purse Project

[40:32] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, Tracey and Becky talk about how to cultivate simple acts of daily kindness, the importance of prioritizing kindness in the home, insights on how to navigate grief and suffering for yourself and others, Becky’s own journey with anxiety and much more! “Right where you are with exactly what you have, you have the ability to make a difference in this world.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Introduction to the episode tailor 

[0:23] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:45] Becky gives a brief introduction of herself to listeners

[0:46] Check out Becky’s Love What Matters story HERE!  

[1:03] (In)courage

[2:43] Question: What inspired you to write your book: What inspired you to write the book? The Simple Difference, How Every Small Kindness Makes a Big Impact

[3:34] Check out Becky’s first book: No Better Mom for the Job

[7:54] “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast my stone across the waters to create many ripples.” -Mother Teresa

[15:03] Question: Do you have any tips or insights on how to support others during a time of grief or suffering?

[18:01] “I've learned one of the most powerful things we can say is simply, I'm so sorry for your suffering.”

[23:07] Kindness starts within the home…

[24:32] The Simple Difference 

[27:15] Question: Can you talk a little bit more about your journey and your path with anxiety?

[32:51] Question: With someone who is suffering and dealing with anxiety, how do they show kindness to themselves?

[32:56] Question: How can we show kindness to someone in our life that is dealing with it? 

[36:54] The power behind how you ask ‘how are you doing?’

[37:39] Question: Is there anything that you want to mention about kindness or anxiety or anything that you feel like maybe I just didn't tap into in our conversation?

[39:16] Check out Courageous Kindness HERE!

[40:47] Listeners can connect with Becky on IG @beckykeife or check out her website https://www.beckykeife.com/  

[41:13] Parting words from Becky’s book The Simple Difference 

[41:37] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

-- Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion, and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 18 years. Together, they call Texas home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, Tracey and Krissi chat about Krissi’s depression during the pandemic that ultimately led to her to become the CEO of making people cry, challenges faced regarding social media and mental health, Krissi’s ‘why’ behind restoring faith in humanity and much more! “When hard times hit, there is something to be said about turning outward and serving others.” Show Notes: 

[0:14] Introduction to the episode with Krissi  

[0:20] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[3:08] Question: Do you remember what the video was that was most popular? 

[6:05] Krissi’s most popular video on tiktok 

[6:22] Question: Why was it that one that just seemed to resonate with so many people?

[8:47] One Woman’s Journey Becoming a LIVE Organ Donor 

[10:09] “I'm really taking notice for every one negative comment that they get or I get or anybody gets, there's a hundred good comments.”

[10:27] Tracey recalls the tiktok that stuck with her.. Warning! tear jerker 

[13:15] Deer getting stuck tiktok 

[13:59] Question: Restoring Faith in Humanity. Why is that?

[21:19] Stepping away from social media for your own mental health

[22:51] Question: How long did you pull away from social media?

[28:08] Question: Has there ever been anything that stood out to you that maybe someone did something for you?

[31:25] Question: What keeps you motivated to continue to ‘Restore Faith in Humanity?’ 

[34:05] Krissi explains her career in the medical field and some of the challenges she faces

[40:27] Question: What is kindness? And, what does that mean to you?

[41:20] “When hard times hit, there is something to be said about turning outward and serving others.”

[41:38] To check out more of Krissi’s videos check out her TikTok page @krissimallory

[41:39] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, Tracey and Jill Wagner talk about how Jill and her family decided on fostering a child before meeting him, why it wasn’t as difficult for her to go through the fostering process as some others may have experienced, how their story lead to legal guardianship, and why her newly addition to the family actually helped save her marriage, along with much more!  “I don't think a lot of people realize that really after age nine, your chances of being adopted go extremely down.”  Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:49] Introduction to the episode with guest Jill and her adoption story  

[5:52] Question: How old was Hakeem when you took him into your home?

[6:02] “I don't think a lot of people realize is that really after age nine, your chances of being adopted go extremely down.” 

[6:19] Question: How was it that you were able to go through the adoption process so much easier than other guests we’ve had on previous episodes?

[7:12] Question: What was the process like for you to foster?

[7:42] Question: How long did you foster him before your next step?

[9:31] Guardianship 

[9:38] A little bit about Hakeem 

[13:38] Question: Does he still see anyone from his family?

[15:58] Question: What for you has been the most challenging but also the most rewarding?

[19:00] Question: What impact has bringing Hakeem into your home done to the other three children?

[19:59] Question: For your three biological children, did it make them a little bit more appreciative of their life, seeing the flip side and what other kids have to deal with?

[20:31] Question: How did bringing Hakeem into your family affect your marriage? 

[23:13] Question: How are you still married to the same man after all these years?

[26:01] “I would say it's been a battle and it's been a choice, and it's been something that we have continually gone together. And I think that God has just really blessed that in our marriage.”

[27:08] Heart Work Over Hard Work…coming soon!

[29:36] Question: What's next for you and your family?

[31:12] Question: What does your story represent to you that you want other people to know?

[37:35] I’m peeing… can I get some privacy?

[38:17] Question: How has your TikTok platform changed your life or what has it done for you and your family?

[39:50] Listeners can check out Jill’s content on tiktok @jillwagner81, on IG @authenticallyjill, and on FB @jillschrestwagner 

[41:32] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, Tracey, Pat and Roodie chat about how Pat and Roodie met during a breakdown on the side of the road, how Pat went above and beyond to help Roodie and her children, why intuition played in their favor and ultimately lead to a lifelong friendship. “I was so grateful because I've never met a family. Just was willing for the whole family to just go out and help somebody.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:40] Introduction to the episode with guests Pat & Roodie  

[1:45] Read the full story about Pat and Roodie on Love What Matters 

[1:48] Question: When you were riding your motorcycle and you saw the broken down van, what went through your head?

[5:41] Question: Pat, it seems as though it was an automatic thought for you to just help her… is that just the type of person you are?

[6:50] Question: Were you reserved or anything? Or did you just trust your intuition on the type of man that Pat seemed to be?

[14:37] Question: Can you tell me about your visit with Susan and James?

[15:01] “I was so grateful because I've never met a family. Just was willing for the whole family to just go out and help somebody.”

[18:08] Question: What was so wonderful about Roodie and her children?

[21:31] Question: How often do you guys talk or see each other or stay in touch since all of this?

[22:45] Question: What is it that you're hoping others take away from this story?

[24:20] Question: What do you feel is the best piece of advice on how to treat others?

[25:59] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion, and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 18 years. Together, they call Texas home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion, and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 18 years. Together, they call Texas home. In this episode, Tracey and Russell discuss why Russell started the Little Bricks Charity, how tiktok has offered a platform for the charity to thrive and grow, the story behind his mohawk, the undeniable value of LEGO and play, touring the country and donating Lego and much more! “Play is how children identify with their surroundings. Play is also a really good branch into distraction and education, for children in hospital. Lego does so much for these amazing kids. it gives them this sense of familiarity in a very unfamiliar situation.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:40] Introduction to the episode with guest Russell Cassevah 

[1:04] Little Bricks Charity and their Mission

[1:45] Fairy Bricks

[3:02] Brick Fest

[4:00] Question: What got you into Lego?

[7:32] Question: Did you start the charity before cashing in your 401k?

[9:30] Our mission is to build big smiles on hospitalized kids by getting Lego into the hands of those kids.

[10:20] Moving the nonprofit to tiktok

[11:51] Little Bricks Charity Guy

[17:54] Your mohawk is like your brand

[20:30] The beginning of the Mohawk and WHY he did the Mohawk

[25:19] What is POTS

[26:28] Question: Why do you think you have built such a loyal community?

[30:07] “If you really want to build a community, no matter what it is, it's all about consistency, honesty, and transparency”

[30:48] Question: You mentioned a tour. Can we talk about that for a minute?

[31:04] National REO Brokers Association

[34:44] Thirsty Turtle Tumblers 

[36:10] Coverage from the donation tour

[37:47] Question: Let’s go back to the four families you mentioned early on… can you give updates on those children and families and how they impacted you?

[42:15] Santa J Clause

[43:51] Question: What does play do for these kids and what feedback have you received from their families about the legos?

[44:02] “Play is how children identify with their surroundings. Play is also a really good branch into distraction and education, for children in hospital. Lego does so much for these amazing kids. it gives them this like sense of familiarity in a very unfamiliar situation.”

[46:47] Three Time Guinness World Record Holder for Stepping on Legos 

[49:50] Question: What's the type of feedback that you're getting from the kids and the families?

[50:12] Question: What are a few reminders or lessons that you have gained through your journey of Little Bricks Charity?

[52:51] Question: What are you working on now? What's the future look like for Little Brooks Charity? 

[53:55] You can find Little Bricks Charity online HERE at or on IG @littlebricksbigsmiles and FB @LittleBricksCharity or you can find Russ himself on tiktok at Little Bricks Charity Guy

[54:44] Empower Her Live

[54:52] Trent Shelton

Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness

Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life-changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life, or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion, and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author, and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 18 years. Together, they call Texas home. In this episode, Tracey and Kerri chat about infertility and how adoption became Kerri and her Husband Jonny’s adventure. They discuss how to become foster care certified, how others can get involved with the foster care system even without fostering, why they chose adoption in the end, how their story made their marriage stronger, and much more! “We will foster love for the rest of our lives.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:43] Introduction to the episode with guest Kerri 

[1:42] Let's tune in to the story Kerri shared with Love What Matters

[4:13] “God was pulling us in a different direction”

[4:45] Question: Was it hard to make the leap from having your own child to adoption? Or a hard reality to come to?

[7:21] Question: Why adoption? What opened that door? How did you get there? 

[7:47] Adoption Consultants

[11:16] Venturing into becoming foster care certification

[12:50] Question: Are the processes different between foster care and adoption?

[14:34] Easing into parenting

[16:48] “I finally felt like I was doing what I was made to do. I was finally able to be a mom. A mom who could raise her son.”

[16:59] Question: Tell me about Jonathan?

[20:57] Question: What was it that you learned that just broke your guys' hearts about foster care?

[23:08] “We had three kids in our home who didn't look alike, but were best friends and knew they were family.”

[26:26] Fast forward to Jan. 2020.. Gaining Illa 

[30:29] Question: Would you say that this whole experience going through the foster care system has made your marriage stronger?

[31:34] “Foster care is only here because people get in bad places and can't take care of their children. These kids are not ours to start, but we will honor their biological families and show them where they come from. We will foster love for the rest of their lives.”

[34:10] Question: What are you hoping that others will take away from hearing your story on foster care?

[34:41] Question: What other ways can you support the foster care system?

[36:31] Becoming by Brooklyn

[37:21] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“I know a strong and good person when I see one. You were given this life, not by accident, but because you are strong enough to live it. You were given those babies because they need you to be their mom. You can let your struggles destroy you or you can let them motivate you. It's not the struggle that defines us, but what we do after that matters.” Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life-changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life, or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion, and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author, and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 18 years. Together, they call Texas home. Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:40] Introduction to episode with guest Sarah

[2:41] “There is two sides to every story”

[4:03] Sarah leads into the relationship details with her son’s father

[5:14] Question: What were these warning signs that you wish you would've seen or that people were telling you about?

[7:51] “I kept saying, ‘Something's not right. Something's not right.’ But nobody would listen.“

[10:04] “We were in the elevator and she was in labor too, but she was super early. And like in between contractions, she looked at me and she was like, `I don't know why I feel the need to tell you this, but that baby is about to change your life.’ ”

[19:24] How could something so beautiful come out of such a sad situation?

[24:04] “This is the first person to ask me if I was okay in like a year. Literally.”

[26:00] “I know a strong and good person when I see one. You were given this life, not by accident, but because you are strong enough to live it. You were given those babies because they need you to be their mom. You can let your struggles destroy you or you can let them motivate you. It's not the struggle that defines us, but what we do after that matters.”

[28:35] After some light at the end of the tunnel… Sarah found herself in a dark situation again

[32:34] Sarah recalls the moment she felt like she failed her children

[38:16] “There was someone I needed to thank before closing this chapter”...

[44:11] Question: Have you asked your patients what she has asked you? Have you asked them? How are you?

[46:28] “If you feel like no one else believes in you. I hope you remember that, I do.”

[47:08] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Traceyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 17 years. Together, they call Texas home. In this episode, Tracey and Samantha talk about Samantha’s calling to become a LIVE organ donor, the inspiration from her uncle and social media, the process of getting medically cleared, the risks of surgery and much more! “Sadly, 8,000 people die each year on average, 22 people each day, Almost one person each hour because the organs they need are not donated in time.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin 

[0:39] Introduction to episode with guest Samantha 

[1:36] Let's tune in to the story Sammy shared with Love What Matters

[2:00] Question: So I want you to tell me about that phone call that you gave your mom, letting her know that you wanted to be a living organ donor.. Let's dive into that!

[3:23] Inspiration from an IG story 

[4:30] Question: So what was it about your friend's post on Instagram that inspired you to do that? Can you tell me a little bit about her and what she did?

[5:56] “Sadly, 8,000 people die each year on average, 22 people each day, Almost one person each hour because the organs they need are not donated in time.” -donatelife.net 

[10:38] Post surgery evaluation process 

[11:30] Question: Can you tell me more about the process that you had to go through to become a living organ donor?

[15:17] Question: What were the risks that you were willing to take to do this?

[18:05] We need your liver now.. We have a match!

[21:06] Day of surgery

[23:22] “I had to remind myself several times that the recipient went from feeling extremely ill to full of life again, and the pain I was feeling was only temporary.”

[30:18] Question: Did you ever find out anything about who received your liver donation or were you able to meet them?

[33:25] If you're interested in learning more about living organ donation, please visit organdonor.gov

[33:33] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Tracyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 17 years. Together, they call Texas home. In this episode, Tracey and Diana talk about Chad’s devastating diagnosis with Pancreatic cancer, Diana's experience making tough decisions while also respecting her husband's wishes, and ultimately how one dispatcher's compassion led Diana to creating a course to teach all dispaters in training. “We don't think of dispatchers as heroes, but that night Jeff was mine.” -Diana Show Notes: 

[0:00] Welcome back to Rock Your Kindness Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ferrin

[0:39] Introduction to episode with guest Diana

[1:13] Tracey: “This is their story…”

[2:11] “I don't know very many 30 year old men that come in and say: ‘Hey, I wanna come in and take care of you. And I know you're broken and let me piece you back together. And by the way, I'll take care of your kids.’ “

[2:57] What Diana wrote to Love What Matters

[4:00] Question: Did the doctors expect Chad to make a full recovery?

[11:33] Tough but necessary decision for Diana to make

[12:50] Respecting wishes of the one you love

[15:46] “My name is Jeff. Tell me exactly what happened.”

[17:38] “We don't think of dispatchers as heroes, but that night Jeff was mine.”

[20:31] Up Struggle

[21:14] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Tracyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) Until next time.. Rock Your Kindness


Social Links:

Website: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ 

Instagram: @lovewhatmatters 

Facebook: @lovewhatmatters

YouTube: @lovewhatmatters 

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another. Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 17 years. Together, they call Texas home. In this episode, Jessica shares her story with Tracey about how crippling mom guilt can be. Jessica explains how she learned the true value of not only offering help, but accepting it even if it feels heavy. Jessica expresses much gratitude for the lesson learned the day she took a trip to Trader Joe’s, and how she now can use that story to teach her daughter’s the valuable lessons of offering help and receiving it. “What you saw were containers of produce scattered on the pavement. But what wasn't as visible were the messy emotions and stories I was carrying, along with my groceries.” Show Notes: 

[0:00] Introduction to episode with guest Jessica

[1:24] “What you saw were containers of produce scattered on the pavement. But what wasn't as visible were the messy emotions and stories I was carrying, along with my groceries.”

[3:34] Mom guilt… the guilt that keeps on giving

[4:52] Question: What are your thoughts on those definitions for ‘mom guilt'? Would you agree? Where do you think mom guilt comes from?

[11:54] And the guilt continues.. Even if the plan is a dose of self care or therapy

[14:36] The true power in asking for help

[16:12] “I don't have to ask, but I have to accept it.”

[20:24] “You reminded me of my inherent worthiness. You saw me in my wildly imperfect, uncomfortable and burdened state, and you offer your help in spite and because of it all.” 

[20:40] Question: Then you say it felt like you were shouldering the weight of humanity? What did you mean by that?

[26:21] Question: Did Trader Joe's ever catch wind of the story?

[29:39] Question: “The experience that you have with Beth, has this changed the way that you view strangers in any way?”

[32:16] Question: What advice would you give to someone who maybe is in the shoe or in the moment that you were in that day? Experiencing mom guilt, having a hard time asking for help? What would be your best piece of advice to them?

[38:10] Thanks for listening to this episode of Rock Your Kindness. If you know someone this story might resonate with, send them a link to this episode. Also tag me Tracey Ferrin on Instagram at @Tracyferrin and let me know what part of this story resonated with you the most. The best way to help support this show is to rate, review and subscribe. :) 


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Dr. Doaa Alsamrae was told that her child would have no chance at a normal life, but one doctor, on the other side of the world, stepped in and changed Dr. Doaa and her Daughter Nadine's lives forever. In this episode, Tracey and Doaa talk about receiving the news at Doaa’s 20-week anatomy scan that her daughter has a heart condition that would need an in-womb heart intervention. Doaa discusses the challenges her and her husband went through searching for a doctor to take on the surgery with success of finding one in Cleveland. Doaa explains the severity of traveling 7,000 miles from Dubai and how the success of her surgery opened up opportunities for more babies in Dubai to receive such surgery.

Show Notes: 

[0:00] Introduction to episode trailer 

[0:29] Welcome to Rock Your Kindness Podcast! Tracey gives a brief background of Dr. Doaa Alsamrae’s story to the listeners

[1:51] The Real Life Story of Doctor McDreamy

[2:44] Doaa begins to tell her story of early pregnancy and getting her 20 week pregnancy anatomy scan

[4:02] Initial diagnosis: congenital heart defect 

[4:55] Question: Were there any signs that something was wrong with the anatomy scan?

[5:41] Question: How were you feeling during the ultrasound now being told that something was wrong?

[6:24] Doaa received the news that her unborn baby had pulmonary atresia

[7:40] ‘Your baby will need multiple surgeries in the first two years to be able to live with half of a heart. Don’t expect to see her have a normal childhood like other kids; she will be delayed. This is her life expectancy. Nothing can be done to prevent it.’

[9:22] Doaa recalls a scene from Grey's Anatomy… The missing link to saving her unborn babies life

[10:10] In-womb heart intervention exists and it was the link to save Nadine 

[12:35] Question: Was there a risk to you to have this type of surgery?

[15:20] “We had only a few weeks to save her. 7,000 miles away, a doctor said, ‘I can help your baby!”

[19:00] What traveling 7,000 miles for Nadine’s surgery experience looked like

[21:10] History in the making with a team of 15, Tracey reads the surgical proceedings on day of surgery

[24:00] The next day: surgery attempt two

[27:30] “Because of you.. We are starting to tell people about this surgical option.” 

[29:20] Life after the birth of Nadine

[29:40] How one ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ episode helped save a baby’s life l GMA  

[31:20] Question: What do you think yours and Nadine’s story represents?

-- If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to iTunes and leave a rating and review! How to Leave an Apple Podcast Review: First, Open the podcast app on your iPhone, Mac, or iPad. Then, hit the “Search” tab at the bottom right-hand corner of the page and search for Rock Your Kindess. Select the podcast, scroll down to find the subheading “Ratings & Reviews”. and select “Write a Review.” Next, select the number of stars you’d like to leave. Please choose 5 stars! --

RYK:

Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another.

Tracey Ferrin: Rock Your Kindness is hosted by Tracey Ferrin. Tracey is a mother, wife, best-selling author and TikTok superstar. She is often called a "breath of fresh air" by those who know and meet her. She is a mom of 4 and has been married to the love of her life for 17 years. Together, they call Texas home.

For more info on Love What Matters: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ For more info on your host, Tracey Ferrin: https://traceyferrin.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Rock Your Kindness highlights extraordinary stories of everyday people experiencing life changing kindness. Whether it's a random act, saves a life or helps you be kinder to yourself, these stories will increase empathy, compassion and hope. You never know how your kindness can change the trajectory of your life or the life of another.

New episodes every week!

For more info on Love What Matters: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/ For more info on your host, Tracey Ferrin: https://traceyferrin.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Looking after numerous nieces and nephews and working in daycare centers made Treka a natural caregiver, and she always knew she was called to motherhood. Once she was able to become a foster parent, she did not hesitate to welcome any child into her home. Fostering eventually lead to adoption, a transition that required Treka and her children to rely on each other above all else. Listen to hear how Treka spreads love to those in need through her extraordinary journey.     Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).   For more stories like Treka’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Shay is proud of her daughter’s self-confidence. A dedicated athlete with an optimistic personality, Liv is an emotionally and physically strong twelve-year-old. When a short doctor’s visit threatened her vibrant spirit, Shay was horrified by how quickly words can hurt a person. In Love What Matters final episode of the season, listen to Shay’s story to learn why both mother and daughter started speaking out against bullying.    Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).   For more stories like Shay’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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When Katie’s home was destroyed in a fire, she didn’t dwell on everything she lost. Instead, she saw an opportunity for her and her family to start a smaller, better life. Listen to Katie’s story to understand why she turned to minimalism to live a more satisfying life.    The Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise). For more stories like Katie’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Peter had all the odds stacked against him. He was born into poverty and suffered at the hands of an abusive father. The kindness of strangers ultimately led him to a brighter future, and he has dedicated his life to returning the favor. Listen to this inspiring story of how compassion has driven Peter to help other struggling children.     Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).     For more stories like Peter’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Does a Kitten BnB sound like your dream getaway? Well it’s possible all because of the kindness a woman who turned her idea to foster kittens into a business that helps both the animals and human visitors. In Jess’s story, you’ll hear about a journey that’s just as important as it is adorable.     Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).     For more stories like Jess’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The bond of mother and child isn’t always biological. At 25 years old, Casey was called to motherhood when she heard that there was a 16 year old male who needed a home. In this episode, she opens up about the struggles and joys of starting a family in an unconventional way.    Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).     For more stories like Casey’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What would it take for you to turn your life around? When Hanss got suspended from school during his first year of college, making his parents proud became his motivation to prioritize education over everything else. Listen to hear his story of how he surprised both his family and himself on the road to graduation.    Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise). For more stories like Hanss’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Sometimes it’s our differences that bring us together. In this heart-warming pet adoption story, Crystal reminds us to celebrate the things that make us unique, and how important it is to be welcoming and kind to those who are different than us.   Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).   For more stories like Crystal’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Families form in all kinds of ways. In a moving story about how to help provide for children trapped in a flawed system, Caroline tells us about her journey transitioning from mom to foster mom, and ultimately adoptive mom, a change which turned her family of four into a family of nine. Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise). For more stories like Caroline’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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It’s hard to ask for help, but sometimes it can be the key to saving your life. When Michael found a lump on his chest, he went to the doctor immediately to seek the care he needed. Michael teaches us how putting his health before his pride helped him survive male breast cancer.   Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise).   For more stories like Michael’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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A life-changing call makes a young couple parents overnight after dealing with infertility for two years. In our very first episode, prepare to be inspired by the love and perseverance shown in Sadie’s story.   Read more about Sadie here: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/holy-crap-babe-they-want-us-to-adopt-the-baby-they-want-us-to-be-parents-i-screamed-wait-really-couple-adopts-child-unexpectedly-says-families-d/.   And for more stories like Sadie’s, check out LoveWhatMatters.com.    Love What Matters Presents: Your Story is brought to you by Subaru (https://www.subaru.com/love-promise). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In today’s world of continuous negative news coverage, it can be hard to remember there is a lot of good in life. Love What Matters brings inspiring stories from real people far & wide to share love, kindness and compassion, and to remind us that good things don’t happen by default – they’re a daily choice that we make. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices