The Human Experience: Recent Episodes
Jennifer Peterkin
Can you pinpoint a moment in time when your life changed? Maybe it wasn’t a moment, maybe it was a complicated chain of events that led you to where you are today. Or maybe, it was a generational impact that started before you were even born. Regardless of what it contains, all humans have a story. And those stories are the building blocks of who we are, at our very core. Join host, Jennifer Peterkin - lover and collector of stories, as she interviews humans from all walks of life. Tune in every week to hear stories of love and loss, triumph and defeat, and all that exist in between.
Show Notes:
In this thoughtful episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin visits John (Jonathan Heaslet) at his North Carolina home to reflect on a remarkable life of service, transformation, and storytelling.
John shares his early years growing up near San Francisco, his studies in mathematics and economics, and his first career as a health economist before answering the call to ministry. He recounts candid experiences from serving as a pastor in rural Ohio—including supporting an AIDS patient at a time of deep stigma and navigating the complex truths within Amish communities.
The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, empathy, inclusion, and the challenge of fostering change in diverse American communities. Now retired, John reflects on his transition into writing and creative pursuits, bringing the same compassion and curiosity that guided his ministry into his fiction.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of illness, community exclusion, and sensitive cultural topics. Listener discretion is advised.
Key Takeaways:
● Vulnerability and courage are central to authentic storytelling.
● John’s personal journey spans health economics, military service, and pastoral ministry.
● Rural and urban communities offer stark cultural contrasts that shape ministry and daily life.
● Ministry required navigating inclusion, compassion, and difficult truths.
● He shares experiences supporting marginalized individuals, including an AIDS patient.
● Religious and societal systems impact personal safety, autonomy, and belonging.
● Secrets within communities can carry heavy consequences, both individually and collectively.
● Empathy and community resilience are vital in creating more inclusive spaces.
● Retirement opened a new chapter for John—writing fiction inspired by lived experiences.
Interview recorded in Charlotte, NC.
Jonathan Heaslet’s Bio:
Jonathan (John) Heaslet is a retired Army Captain, health economist, and ordained minister. In retirement, he has turned to writing fiction, publishing two novels: EAST OF APPLE GLEN (2023) and HAWKS NEST CHRONICLES — GOOD NEWS FROM OSCEOLA, IOWA.
Drawing from a life of service, faith, and curiosity, John’s writing continues his lifelong commitment to storytelling, empathy, and reflection. He lives in North Carolina with his wife, Linda.
Connect with Jonathan Heaslet:
🌐 Website: https://www.JonathanHeaslet.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Jonathan Heaslet
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088773562534
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In this moving episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Linda, who shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and compassion. After the tragic murder of her best friend and her best friend’s mother, Linda made the life-altering decision to take in the five orphaned children left behind.
What began as an act of love soon transformed into a lifelong mission. Linda opens up about the challenges of unexpected motherhood, the impact of domestic violence on families, and how faith and purpose guided her through unimaginable loss. Her story led to the creation of a ministry that now supports vulnerable children both in the U.S. and Haiti.
This conversation is a powerful testament to the human spirit, the ripple effects of compassion, and the lasting impact one person can make when they choose love over fear.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains sensitive discussion of domestic violence and murder. Listener discretion is advised.
Takeaways* The tragic event that left five children orphaned and how Linda stepped in. * The lasting impact of domestic violence and why awareness matters. * The challenges of shifting from entrepreneur to unexpected motherhood. * Founding a ministry to serve vulnerable children in the U.S. and Haiti. * Firsthand experiences of the harsh realities inside Haitian orphanages. * Reflections on grief, resilience, faith, and living with purpose. * How one person’s compassion can spark global impact.
Interview recorded in Lavonia, GA.
Show Notes:
In this heartfelt episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson, a shamanic healer, artist, and speaker whose life story is one of resilience, hope, and transformation.
Maria opens up about her personal journey through trauma, addiction, and domestic violence, sharing how she overcame struggles with self-worth and found her path to healing. Through sobriety, holistic practices, and shamanic wisdom, Maria discovered the importance of self-love, boundaries, and spiritual connection.
Today, she helps others navigate their own healing journeys—using movement, dance, writing, and light language as tools for transformation. Her testimony highlights the power of vulnerability, resilience, and faith in creating a life of authenticity and purpose.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, addiction, and trauma. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Key Takeaways:
● Maria shares personal stories of trauma, addiction, and recovery.
● Her journey includes experiences with domestic violence, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
● A spiritual awakening led her to embrace holistic and shamanic practices as tools for healing.
● Self-love, healthy boundaries, and resilience were key in her transformation.
● Creative expression—through dance, writing, and spoken word—helped her reclaim her voice.
● Healing is an ongoing process that requires courage, community, and faith.
● Intuition and spiritual connection play an essential role in daily life.
● Maria’s story is a testament to the transformative power of love and vulnerability.
Interview recorded in Port St. Lucie, FL.
Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson’s Bio:
Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson is a woman walking the journey of life guided by the healing power of love. A heart-centered healer, Maria is a practicing master shamanic healer and under her brands Emotional Musings and The Musing Shaman, she works with clients all over the world, both in-person and virtually.
Her poetry and Light language inspire others on their healing journeys and stand as living proof of her motto, “Triumphing over Trauma.” Maria has overcome abuse, addiction to drugs and alcohol, and an eating disorder. She is also a three-time triathlete, a master of movement medicine, and a spoken word artist.
Today, Maria speaks to audiences of all ages as a motivational speaker and healer, helping others strengthen the mind-body-spirit connection and step into higher consciousness and self-love.
Connect with Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson:
🌐 Website: EmotionalMusings.com
🌐 Website: TheMusingShaman.com
📸 Instagram: @emotionalmusings
📺 YouTube: Maria Teresa – Emotional Musings
🎵 TikTok: @emotionalmusings
🔗 LinkedIn: Maria Teresa – Emotional Musings
🐦 X (Twitter): @pratico_teresa
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin travels to Clermont, FL and welcomes Derek Newborn, who shares his raw and inspiring journey from abandonment, trauma, and self-destruction to transformation, healing, and purpose.
Growing up in Fort Myers, Florida, Derek faced the pain of parental incarceration, single-parent struggles, and a deep sense of abandonment. Becoming a father at 16 and navigating hardships such as divorce, narcissism, and a suicide attempt, Derek reveals how he reached rock bottom and began the hard process of rebuilding his life.
Through deep vulnerability, self-reflection, and a spiritual awakening, Derek learned to take ownership of his story. His journey of resilience offers listeners valuable insight into self-compassion, accountability, and the power of rewriting one’s narrative.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and trauma. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Key Takeaways:
● Childhood experiences and family dynamics shape adult struggles and emotional development.
● Derek shares the impact of parental incarceration and the challenges of being raised by a single parent.
● Abandonment and isolation influenced destructive patterns in relationships and self-worth.
● His journey of self-discovery highlights the importance of accountability and rewriting one’s story.
● Trauma is subjective—its impact depends on how it’s carried and processed.
● Community support, vulnerability, and self-compassion are vital to healing.
● Forgiveness is powerful but doesn’t always mean reconciliation.
● Derek describes the shift from narcissism and self-centeredness to authentic connection.
● A spiritual awakening redefined his purpose and ability to help others.
Interview recorded in Cleremont, FL.
Derek Newborn’s Bio:
Once named one of Florida’s “Top Personal Trainers” and a published fitness model, Derek Newborn appeared to have it all. But beneath the surface, he was unraveling. Multiple suicide attempts, destructive relationships, and narcissistic behaviors nearly cost him everything.
Instead of ending his life, Derek chose to end the version of himself that was destroying it. Through resilience, accountability, and faith, he rebuilt his life brick by brick. Today, Derek helps women escape toxic relationships with narcissists, reclaim their worth, and reconnect with their authentic selves—mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Having lived many lives—teenage father, construction worker, trainer, model, business owner, and survivor—Derek proves it’s never too late to rewrite your story. His mission is clear: no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise again—and thrive.
Connect with Derek Newborn:
🌐 Website: dereknewborn.com
📘 The High Ground Coaching Community: Skool – The High Ground
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In this powerful and emotionally charged episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down in Boynton Beach, FL. with Michael W. Allison, MBA—U.S. Marine, Purple Heart recipient, award-winning keynote speaker, and best-selling author—to explore a remarkable life story shaped by trauma, transformation, and purpose.
From a challenging immigrant childhood in Jamaica and Miami marked by poverty, bullying, and abuse, Michael shares his road to redemption through military service, leadership, and healing. He opens up about his combat experiences in Iraq, including surviving a VBIED car bomb, and the lasting psychological impact of war.
Michael also discusses how he rebuilt his life after service—founding The Adversity Academy, helping Fortune 500 companies and federal agencies unlock performance through resilience, and stepping onto stages around the world to inspire others to lead with identity, strength, and courage.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, suicide, and violence. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
Key Takeaways:
● Michael’s early life in Jamaica was shaped by poverty, natural disasters, and trauma.
● After immigrating to Miami, he faced bullying, family struggles, and cultural challenges.
● Joining the U.S. Marine Corps gave him a sense of direction, discipline, and brotherhood.
● Boot camp and military service taught him adaptability, leadership, and mental toughness.
● He recounts intense combat experiences in Iraq and the emotional toll of war.
● The unbreakable bonds between Marines and their shared resilience are a central theme.
● Michael explores how trauma shaped his personal life and how healing became a mission.
● Today, he is a global speaker and resilience coach for elite clients including Microsoft, Netflix, and Amazon.
● His frameworks—Break The Bottle™, Protect The House™, and Leadership Re-Entry™—are used by leaders worldwide to overcome adversity and perform under pressure.
Interview recorded in Boynton Beach, FL.
Michael W. Allison’s Bio:
Michael W. Allison, MBA is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart recipient, 2x Navy & Marine Achievement Medal honoree, INC 5000 entrepreneur, and award-winning internationally recognized keynote speaker. He is the founder of The Adversity Academy Leadership Development Group, where he helps Fortune 500 brands, federal agencies, and industry leaders unlock performance through resilience and identity-driven leadership.
Michael is the creator of the Break The Bottle™, Protect The House™, and Leadership Re-Entry™ frameworks—trusted globally to develop high-performing executive teams. A TEDx speaker and best-selling author of Overcoming Adversity: Getting Your Life Back on Track, Michael draws from his combat survival and trauma recovery experience to guide others toward clarity, conviction, and cultural transformation.
He believes that breaking personal barriers is not just for oneself—but for everyone still watching and wondering if they can.
Connect with Michael Allison:
🌐 Website: https://michaelwallison.com
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iammichaelwallison/
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iammichaelallison
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammichaelwallison/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iammikewallison/
🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/iammikewallison
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iammichaelwallison
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Matt Gilhooly, host of The Life Shift podcast, shares the story behind his own pivotal life shift—the sudden death of his mother when he was just eight years old. In a deeply moving conversation, Matt reflects on the fallout that followed, the perfectionism that took hold, and how it took him 20 years to finally face the grief he had buried. He opens up about processing trauma in therapy, learning to live intentionally, and the radically different way he was able to say goodbye to his grandmother. Matt’s story is one of heartbreak, healing, and learning to hold space—for himself and others.
Interview recorded in Orlando, FL.
Key Takeaways:
- Matt’s life changed forever when his mother died in a motorcycle accident while he was visiting his father for the summer.
- That moment led to a perfectionist mindset, rooted in fear of further abandonment.
- It took Matt 20 years to begin processing his grief—and therapy helped him understand how much of his life was driven by the fear of not being enough.
- He learned from that experience how to grieve differently when his grandmother—the most consistent maternal figure in his life—passed away.
- Starting The Life Shift podcast became a healing outlet, helping him connect with others through their pivotal life stories.
- Matt’s story highlights how grief can be delayed, repressed, or misunderstood—and how compassion begins with truly listening.
Matt’s Bio:
Matt Gilhooly is the creator and host of The Life Shift Podcast, where he shares candid conversations about the moments that change everything. With nearly 200 episodes and counting, Matt’s built a space where everyday stories are treated with the care and depth they deserve.
He’s also a creative producer and communications strategist with a background in higher education, brand storytelling, and internal communications. But at his core, Matt’s a meaning-maker – someone who believes that honest, human connection is where the real magic happens.
You can learn more at www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com or find The Life Shift wherever you listen to podcasts.
Connect with Matt:
www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com
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Katherine Mitchell’s 84-year journey defies the limits of a single identity. Born during WWII in Hungary, she survived war, communism, and displacement before building a multifaceted life in the U.S. As a nationally ranked gymnast turned refugee, talent agent turned screenwriter, single mother turned novelist, Katherine’s story is a testament to grit, adaptability, and lifelong learning. In this heartfelt and often humorous conversation, she opens up about the moments that shaped her—from math lessons that sparked logical thinking to the heartbreaks and breakthroughs of a life spent chasing meaning, not just success.
Interview recorded in Orange City, FL.
Key Takeaways:
- Katherine was born in wartime Hungary and raised by her grandmother while her mother survived a concentration camp.
- After escaping Hungary following the 1956 revolution, she began a new life in the U.S., learning English and working jobs from Woolworth’s to Wall Street.
- Her early love for math laid the groundwork for a structured, logical approach that served her across industries.
- She transitioned from being a gymnast to a playwright, then became a Hollywood agent and screenwriter—all while raising a child alone.
- After nearly 30 years in California, a major earthquake pushed her to reinvent herself once more—this time as a novelist in Florida.
- Katherine speaks candidly about dreams deferred, lessons in resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of inner peace and creative fulfillment.
- Her perspective on compassion and passion is both simple and profound: one is about giving; the other, about being moved to act.
Katherine’s Bio:
It is an arduous task to capsulize 84 years of life that started as a war baby in Europe. Years of being a nationally ranked gymnast ended in escaping from communist Hungary. The refugee saga went from dishwasher to retail jobs, to love, marriage to an actor and on to Hollywood; from talent agent to screenwriter; from broken marriage to single parenting; always taking college courses to better myself. A 6.9 (7.) earthquake triggered my exit from California; becoming a novelist in Florida continued to fulfill years of working for acceptance as an American writer.
Connect with Katherine:
www.katherinemitchellauthor.com
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Robert Kesten, Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, shares a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation that spans civil rights, global activism, the importance of preserving history, and his lifelong commitment to justice. From organizing a fundraising event as a child in response to Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination to producing a Holocaust documentary and leading initiatives in human rights education, Robert’s journey reflects the intersection of compassion, curiosity, and courageous leadership. His reflections on history, identity, and the enduring struggle for human dignity are as timely as ever.
Interview recorded in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Key Takeaways:
- Robert Kesten is the Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, which preserves and shares LGBTQ history and culture.
- His activism began in childhood after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., when he organized a fundraiser to help send kids to camp.
- Robert emphasizes the importance of telling full, interconnected histories—likening it to a dense tapestry where every thread matters.
- He has worked across diverse causes: LGBTQ+ rights, civil rights, Holocaust remembrance, and international human rights education.
- Kesten produced a documentary on the Holocaust for March of the Living, focusing on emotional impact over dialogue.
- His view of compassion is putting the greater good above oneself, and his guiding philosophy is to leave the world better than he found it.
- Despite decades of global work, he describes his life as "rewarding" rather than "successful"—a reflection on the value of impact over recognition.
Robert Kesten’s Bio:
Kesten is president and CEO of Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library based in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The nonprofit organization is one of the largest of its kind in the LGBTQ+ world and one of the oldest, having been started in 1973.
Prior to joining Stonewall, Kesten traveled around the world promoting acceptance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a foundational document in building a better and more stable world. Kesten conceptualized the United Nations Decade of Human Rights Education, which was approved by the General Assembly and ran from 1994-2004.
Connect with Robert:
stonewall-museum.org
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After surviving childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, Shakina Rush chose healing—and then built a movement. In this powerful in-person conversation, recorded in Philadelphia after her nonprofit’s second annual housing fair, Shakina shares how her lived experiences shaped She Is U, an organization that supports individuals impacted by abuse through housing, mental health, scholarships, and more. Her story is one of radical forgiveness, unshakable faith, and personal responsibility—and her presence is as healing as her work.
Interview recorded in Upper Darby, PA.
Key Takeaways:
- She Is U is a nonprofit founded by Shakina Rush that offers resources for individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual abuse, and assault
- Her own lived experiences—beginning with childhood trauma and continuing into young adulthood—fueled the mission behind the organization
- Shakina emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, including forgiving herself, as a turning point in her healing journey
- Her healing deepened after a spiritual awakening when she first heard God’s voice clearly in her early 20s
- The organization’s unique programs include family bonding weekends, a scholarship fund, bereavement support, and even donating vehicles to survivors
- Shakina believes that domestic violence is a symptom of deeper, often unaddressed trauma
- She is planning new initiatives like Walk in My Shoes, a Converse-sponsored empathy-building experience
- Compassion, to her, means offering grace and practical support—filling the gap without judgment
Shakina Rush’s Bio:
My name is Shakina Rush, and I am an Overcomer! I’ve overcome childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence that started when I was just a preteen and followed me into my young adult years, and sexual assault as a grown woman. Every time I open my mouth and tell my story, I feel another layer of freedom. I don’t get tired of sharing—it’s part of my healing. A part of me that was once trapped in guilt, fear, and shame gets released every single time.
We Overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and through the Word of our Testimony. That’s not just a scripture to me, it’s my life. I’ve made the choice to forgive. I forgive myself. I forgive those who hurt me. I forgive the ones who let me down, who left me when I needed them most. I release it all, and I walk forward in truth, purpose, and peace.
Connect with Shakina:
www.sheisu.org
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When Richard Hsung promised his dying mother he’d finish her memoir, he didn’t yet understand the weight of that vow—or the decade-long journey it would set in motion. In this episode, Richard shares his deeply personal path of honoring his mother’s extraordinary life as an adopted child of American missionaries in pre-Communist China, a refugee from revolution, and a resilient physician under Mao. Together, we explore identity, inheritance, immigration, and what it means to find yourself between cultures while keeping a promise that spans generations.
Interview recorded in Madison, WI.
Key Takeaways:
- Richard’s mother, Jean Tren-Hwa Perkins, was adopted by American missionaries after surviving the 1931 Yangtze River Flood
- Her extraordinary life took her across China, India, and the U.S. during wartime and political upheaval
- She was separated from her adoptive parents for decades after the Communist revolution
- Despite being trapped in China, she became a surgeon and survived persecution with the help of unlikely allies
- Richard immigrated to the U.S. at 14, leaving behind his father and sister and navigating identity loss and cultural dislocation
- He spent nearly 10 years completing his mother’s memoir as a redemptive act of healing and honoring her legacy
- Richard reflects on the “third culture” experience—belonging fully to neither country but shaped deeply by both
- Compassion, for Richard, starts with listening deeply and without judgment
Richard Hsung’s Bio:
Richard P. (Perkins) Hsung was born in China and immigrated to the U.S. as a kid with his mother. He earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Chicago and became a professor at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and the University of Wisconsin-Madison (https://richardperkinshsung.com). Richard spent ten years editing and completing "Spring Flower," written by his mother, Jean Tren-Hwa Perkins, MD. This three-volume memoir, published by Earnshaw Books (https://earnshawbooks.com), chronicles his mother's life as an adopted child of American medical missionaries, which began shortly after the catastrophic Yangtze River Flood in 1931 that killed millions. Learn more at Yangtze River by the Hudson Bay (https://www.yangtzeriverbythehudsonbay.site/home-page.html).
Connect with Richard:
https://richardperkinshsung.com/
https://www.yangtzeriverbythehudsonbay.site/home-page.html
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Dr. Katrina Nguyen was just 14 months old when her family fled Vietnam by boat during the Fall of Saigon, a journey marked by near-death experiences and unimaginable courage. Now a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, bestselling author, and founder of the nonprofit Faithful-2-Fitness, she channels that legacy of resilience into helping families fight childhood obesity and build healthier futures. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nguyen shares her refugee story, her path to medicine, and why compassion, gratitude, and generosity remain at the heart of everything she does.
Interview recorded in Loves Park, Illinois.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Nguyen’s family escaped Communist Vietnam by boat in 1975, surviving multiple near-death experiences
- Her upbringing as one of 10 children shaped her resilience and gratitude
- She founded Faithful-2-Fitness to provide free health education and lifestyle tools to underserved families
- Cultural context and compassion are essential in addressing childhood obesity
- Her Catholic faith deeply informs her work in medicine, service, and philanthropy
- Writing Live to Give and other books helped her process grief and inspire generosity
- Small acts of compassion can spark long-term transformation—personally and societally
Dr. Katrina Nguyen's Bio:
Dr. Katrina Nguyen is a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, a two-time best-selling author, and founder of Faithful-2-Fitness, a nonprofit to fight childhood obesity.
She was just 14 months old when her family escaped by boat from Communist Vietnam in April 1975 after the Fall of Saigon. She nearly died twice during her journey to freedom and the American Dream.
She is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford. She has shared her expertise via EWTN Global Catholic Network, YMCA podcast, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Her Christian faith drives her to serve others. She established charity funds with Raymond James and Northwestern Mutual. Her nonprofit's sponsors include Chick-fil-A and Fleet Feet.
Dr. Nguyen lives in Illinois with her husband Dr. Deladisma. She enjoys being a dog mom, gardening and traveling.
Connect with Katrina:
https://www.instagram.com/mdkatrina/#
https://www.tiktok.com/@mdkatrina
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In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Ralph Velasco, a seasoned travel photographer and founder of small group travel experiences. Raised in suburban Chicago, Ralph takes us through his winding career path—from restaurants and real estate to his true calling behind the camera and on the road. We explore how travel can be a powerful vehicle for connection and self-discovery, and how storytelling brings those experiences to life. Whether you're a budding traveler or someone navigating life's turning points, this conversation offers a compelling look at resilience, reinvention, and the beauty of the journey.
📍Interview recorded in Rockford, Illinois
Key Takeaways:
- Personal experiences with domestic violence and the power of storytelling
- The significance of listening with intention
- Ralph Velasco's journey from suburban Chicago to travel photography
- Early influences and formative travel experiences
- Career transitions from restaurant ownership to real estate and photography
- The impact of the financial crisis on career decisions
- The benefits of small group travel experiences
- The appeal of travel for single women seeking community and security
- The evolving nature of career paths and personal growth
- Favorite travel destinations and considerations for group travel logistics
Ralph Velasco’s Bio:
Since 2008 (16+ years) Ralph Velasco has been a full-time travel photographer and international tour organizer, having created and led over 120 highly-rated international tours in well over 30 countries on 7 continents (plus over 100 domestic tours in the U.S.)
When not traveling, Ralph is based in Chicago. However, he's been location-independent for 11+ years and traditionally spends anywhere from 8 - 9 months on the road internationally scouting and leading his tours.
Ralph has authored several books on travel photography, and he just combined his most recent books into a 3-in-1 book bundle titled The Mindful & Intentional Traveler
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DKTL61PL).
These books include:
- How to Be a Mindful Traveler Using Your 5+ Senses
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DFM2P87D)
- Travel Activity Book for Adults: GRATITUDES Edition
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0D3MKB1TP)
- 60 AFFIRMATIONS for Travel (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQPLBM6T)
He has a YouTube channel called The Continental DRIFTER® (https://youtube.com/continentaldrifter) and a related website (https://ContinentalDRIFTER.co) where everything about his business can be found, including tours, blog posts, his YouTube channel, podcasts, merchandise and more.
Ralph is often asked how people can learn to do what he does and so he created a self-guided online course called Tour Organizer Training: Get Paid to Travel. In this course made up of 7 Modules and 26 Lessons, he goes step-by-step through what’s involved in creating a tour business.
Ralph has spoken all over the world and in the U.S. at the Travel & Adventure Shows and the New York Times Travel Show, as well as at travel blogger conferences (in Spain, Sweden, Israel, and Ireland) and the IOETI digital marketing conference in Cairo, Egypt (see more at https://continentaldrifter.co/speaking/)
Finally, he created an iOS app called My Shot Lists for Travel more than 14 years ago, but it's no longer on the app store and instead he turned the information into a book called 52 Categories of a Shot List: Create Images that Tell a Story, also available on Amazon (https://tinyurl.com/52categories).
Connect with Ralph:
https://continentaldrifter.co
https://fb.com/thecontinentaldrifter
https://instagram.com/ralphvelasco
https://www.linkedin.com/company/continental-drifter
https://x.com/ralphvelasco
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In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Vincent Thompson, longtime journalist and current Communications Director for the President of Philadelphia City Council. Born and raised in Philly, Vincent shares how his curiosity led him from a school newspaper to national political conventions and eventually into public service. We discuss the power of local government, how to engage with your city, and why compassion still matters in civic life. Whether you're a Philly native or just want to better understand how your community works, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired.
Interview recorded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Key Takeaways:
- Vincent Thompson is the Communications Director for Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson.
- A lifelong Philadelphian, he grew up in North Philly and Germantown, and attended Temple University and Marietta College.
- He began his career in journalism, covering politics for outlets like the Philadelphia Tribune and WURD Radio.
- Vincent has hosted City Council radio sessions and emphasized the importance of knowing your district councilmember.
- He explains the structure of local government and why citizens should be more engaged at the city level.
- He encourages people to “be curious, not judgmental” and offers a human-centered view of government service.
- Vincent shares personal stories—from receiving a letter from his journalism idol to the importance of leading with kindness in leadership.
- A passionate advocate for Philadelphia, he invites visitors to see City Hall, the city’s diverse neighborhoods, and yes—try the cheesesteaks (but he’s not picking favorites).
Vincent Thompson’s Bio:
Vincent Thompson is the Director of Communications for Philadelphia (Pa) City Council and Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson.
In his more than 30 year career in media and government, he has served as a Chief of Staff for the late Philadelphia City Councilman Juan Ramos, spokesperson for two past School District of Philadelphia Superintendents, former President of the Philadelphia Black Public Relations Society, former Vice President/Broadcast for the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and has covered Republican and Democratic National Conventions starting with the 1988 Republican National Convention.
Mr. Thompson has won numerous awards in his career for his work in journalism, public relations and community service. In 2018, he received PABJ’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2017, he was named Politics and Government Reporter of the Year by the Pen & Pencil Club of Philadelphia, the nation’s oldest press club in daily operation.
He has been named one of Philadelphia’s Most Influential African-Americans by the Philadelphia Tribune newspaper and has been a winner of the National Education Association’s Excellence in Broadcasting Award.
Connect with Vincent:
Twitter @Mediamancomm
Instagram: @phillymediamancomm
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In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my grandmother—my last living grandparent—to capture her incredible journey through life. From her Italian immigrant roots in coal-mining Pennsylvania to her years as a talented young musician and her marriage to my grandfather, a brilliant physicist and Holocaust survivor, this conversation uncovers a century’s worth of history, resilience, and love. These are the kinds of stories that often go untold—but deserve to be remembered.
Key Takeaways:
Her father was one of 10 children in a coal-mining family in Pittston, PA, and the only one to attend seminary.
Despite growing up in humble beginnings, many of her uncles went on to college and professional careers, breaking generational cycles.
Her mother’s family hailed from Naples, Italy, and she grew up immersed in Italian traditions and strong family ties.
Music played a huge role in her youth—she became the pianist for her school assemblies and eventually played in the All-City Orchestra in Philadelphia.
She lived through World War II and vividly recalls the day Pearl Harbor was bombed—her younger brother’s birthday.
She later married Opa (Laszlo), a Hungarian immigrant, physicist, and survivor of religious persecution, whose brilliance and humility left a lasting mark on the family.
Personal memories, from roller-skating mishaps to Epcot visits and feeding the dogs behind Grandma’s back, make this story uniquely intimate.
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After years of identifying solely as a teacher, Kim faced an identity crisis when burnout forced her to leave the profession. What followed was a deeply personal journey through therapy, self-discovery, and alternative healing modalities. In this episode, she shares the emotional rollercoaster of redefining herself, uncovering childhood trauma, and eventually finding relief through holistic practices like Reiki, yoga, meditation, and energy healing.
Now a certified holistic practitioner, Kim helps others navigate their own healing journeys. She joins host Jennifer Peterkin to discuss the reality of burnout, the limitations of traditional therapy, and the power of exploring alternative healing methods.
📍 This episode was recorded in Chadds Ford, PA
Key Takeaways:
Kim’s journey from teacher burnout to holistic healing
The emotional toll of losing an identity tied to career success
How traditional therapy helped—but also left gaps in her healing
The role of yoga, meditation, Reiki, and energy work in her transformation
The importance of trusting your intuition when seeking help
How Kim now helps others on their own healing and self-discovery journeys
TheHumanExperiencePodcast #HealingJourney #EnergyHealing #MindBodyWellness #OvercomingBurnout #HolisticHealing
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Website - https://www.kimkeane.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kimvkeane/
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Email - kim@kimkeane.com
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Two years ago, The Human Experience went live—a deeply personal and transformative journey of storytelling, connection, and vulnerability. Host Jennifer Peterkin reflects on what she has learned, the intentionality behind in-person interviews, and why proximity and presence matter in capturing human stories.
She also shares an important update about the future of the podcast and what it means to "hold things loosely" when life demands change. Finally, an important announcement: for the foreseeable future, new guest interviews will now be released every other week instead of weekly. This shift allows Jennifer to continue creating meaningful conversations while ensuring the podcast remains a labor of love rather than obligation.
Tune in to hear the full story behind this decision and what’s next for The Human Experience.
🎧 Listen now
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What if life’s coincidences weren’t random, but signs guiding you toward your true purpose?
In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer sits down with Sophia, whose remarkable journey has taken her from working with Buckminster Fuller in architecture to running a couture fashion business, and ultimately helping survivors of human trafficking as a therapist.
Sophia shares the miraculous moments that shaped her path, the science of synchronicity, and why paying attention to divine nudges can lead to unexpected yet deeply fulfilling opportunities. She also discusses how her spiritual awakening, as detailed in her books The Divine Language of Coincidence and Consciousness Beyond Death, has attracted the attention of scientists studying after-death communication.
If you’ve ever questioned whether the universe is sending you signs, this conversation will inspire you to trust the process, take action, and step into the life you were meant to live.
Key Takeaways:
How to Recognize a Meaningful Coincidence – The difference between random chance and a life-altering synchronicity.
Turning Coincidences into Miracles – The power of taking action when the universe nudges you.
An Unconventional Path – From architecture to fashion to therapy, how Sophia’s journey unfolded in unexpected but fulfilling ways.
Helping Women Heal – The impact of her work with at-risk and formerly trafficked women through Living a Fearless Life and the Salvation Army.
The Science of Miracles – Why researchers are studying after-death communication and synchronicity, and how Sophia’s experiences are shaping the conversation.
Faith, Gratitude, and Trusting the Process – How embracing the unknown can lead to personal transformation and deeper fulfillment.
🎧 Listen now to hear Sophia’s extraordinary story and learn how to start recognizing and acting on the miracles in your own life.
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Website: sophiademas.com
Instagram: @Sophia_Demas
Facebook: @TheDivineLanguageOfCoincidence
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In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Ethan Poetic, a self-published author, keynote speaker, and survivor of incredible adversity. Ethan shares his journey of growing up in a single-parent household, taking on responsibilities beyond his years, and surviving a near-fatal car accident that left him with a 99% chance of death. Through resilience, self-reflection, and a commitment to changing his narrative, Ethan has turned his pain into purpose—writing a book, mentoring young people, and advocating for mental health. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance and the impact of choosing to grow despite life's challenges.
📍 This episode was recorded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Key Takeaways
Adversity Doesn't Define You – Despite growing up in a challenging environment and taking on adult responsibilities as a child, Ethan found ways to rise above his circumstances.
Resilience After Tragedy – After surviving a devastating car accident with life-threatening injuries, Ethan fought through recovery and used his experience to inspire others.
Breaking Generational Cycles – Recognizing the impact of unhealed trauma, Ethan made the decision to break the cycle and redefine his future.
The Power of Storytelling – Writing his book allowed Ethan to reclaim his story, find healing, and connect with others facing similar struggles.
Mentorship and Community Matter – Positive role models helped Ethan along the way, and now he pays it forward by mentoring young people and advocating for personal growth.
Self-Publishing for Creative Control – Ethan turned down traditional publishing deals to maintain ownership of his story and create opportunities on his own terms.
Finding Purpose Through Pain – What could have been a life-ending event became the catalyst for Ethan’s mission: to help others, advocate for resilience, and create a lasting legacy of empowerment.
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To support the Autobiography titled The Inspirational Story of Ethan A. Poetic: Chronicles of Adversities, Education, Sports, Relationships, & Resiliency.
Available print on demand, eBook, and Audio through Amazon, Audible, iTunes, Libro, Apple, Spotify, Target, Walmart, Kobo, Barnes & Noble.
For media inquires and speaking engagements visit https://ethanspeaks.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/EthanPoetic23
Instagram: @ethanpoetic23
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethanapoetic1
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Show Notes:
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about drug use, abuse, and neglect. Please proceed with care.
Two years after his first appearance on the podcast, Joe returns to share the incredible and often painful journey of adopting his niece and nephew. In this raw and honest conversation, he details the struggles of navigating a deeply flawed foster care system, the emotional toll of parenting children with trauma, and the ongoing challenges of healing as a family.
From dealing with corrupt social workers to searching for the children's fugitive parents, Joe takes us inside the reality of stepping up when no one else would. Now, with the adoption finalized, he and his wife continue to work through behavioral struggles, the lack of mental health resources, and the weight of carrying a story that is far from over.
Despite everything, they remain committed to giving these kids a future filled with safety, stability, and love.
📍This episode was recorded in Westchester, Pennsylvania
Key Takeaways
The System is Failing Vulnerable Kids – Despite numerous reports of abuse and neglect, authorities failed to intervene for years. When they finally did, the support promised to foster families was unreliable or nonexistent.
The Adoption Process Was a Bureaucratic Nightmare – Joe and his wife faced months of delays, missing paperwork, and even attempted theft from caseworkers.
The Reality of Parenting Children with Trauma – From severe emotional outbursts to difficulties with social skills, the long road to healing requires constant patience, structure, and therapy.
What Needs to Change – Joe calls for better vetting of social workers, more support for foster families, and real consequences for those who neglect and abuse children—including within the system itself.
Would He Do It Again? – Joe doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles but remains firm in his commitment to his family.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (US)
The Crisis Hotline (US)
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Next week, we’ll be bringing Joe, a former guest, back to the podcast to continue sharing more of his story. In the meantime, please enjoy listening to his first appearance on The Human Experience Podcast.
Content Warning: In this episode we discuss domestic violence, suicide, drug addiction, and childhood abuse. Please proceed with care.
In this deeply personal and moving episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Joe, a close friend whose journey through family, trauma, and resilience takes unexpected turns. What started as a simple Ancestry.com DNA test led Joe to uncover a hidden chapter of his family history—one that brought him a sense of belonging he never knew was missing.
This conversation explores cycles of abuse, the power of compassion, and the meaning of true family. Joe shares raw and honest reflections on his past, the struggles of his childhood, and his decision to break generational trauma for the sake of his own children. He also opens up about taking in his abused and neglected niece and nephew, vowing to give them the love and stability they never had.
📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Key Takeaways
Family isn’t just about blood. True family consists of the people who show up, support you, and love you unconditionally.
Breaking the cycle of abuse takes intention. Joe made the decision to raise his children differently, ensuring they never experience what he did.
Small acts of kindness can save lives. A single moment of compassion can be the difference between hope and despair for someone struggling.
Addiction is a disease, but it doesn't excuse abuse. While Joe has empathy for the struggles of his niece and nephew’s parents, he refuses to let their pain continue to harm the next generation.
Finding family later in life can be healing. Meeting his newfound relatives through Ancestry.com filled a void Joe didn’t realize existed.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (US)
The Crisis Hotline (US)
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In this deeply moving episode of The Human Experience with host Jennifer Peterkin, Laurel opens up about her incredible life story filled with resilience, heartbreak, and humor. From being placed in foster care at just two years old, to experiencing multiple homes, adoption, and reconnecting with her sister and extended family, Laurel’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and healing. She reflects on the pivotal moments in her life, the emotional aftermath of her childhood trauma, and how she found herself through counseling, self-awareness, and the pursuit of authenticity.
Laurel also shares how her experiences have shaped her as a mother, her thoughts on adoption, and the complexities of overcoming societal stigmas around trauma and divorce. This conversation is raw, heartfelt, and filled with moments of profound insight.
📍This episode was recorded in Glenmoore, Pennsylvania
Key Takeaways
The impact of childhood trauma: Laurel discusses how unprocessed trauma can resurface unexpectedly and affect adult relationships and identity.
The importance of boundaries and structure: Growing up in foster care and two very different homes taught Laurel the significance of stability and boundaries.
Healing through therapy: How discovering counseling helped Laurel navigate unresolved trauma and reshape her identity.
The nuances of adoption: Laurel provides a compassionate perspective on adoption, discussing its complexities and emotional impact on adoptees.
Living authentically: Her journey to breaking free from people-pleasing, embracing vulnerability, and showing her children what strength and love look like.
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with c, founder of the Greenhouse Project in Chester, Pennsylvania. John shares his incredible journey from addiction and incarceration to living out his faith through radical community-building. He unpacks the mission behind the Greenhouse Project, a ministry rooted in transforming lives by building relationships and fostering spiritual growth within his community.
John discusses how his past shaped his calling, the challenges of ministering in an underserved area, and the profound importance of reconciliation, both with others and within oneself. This episode is an uplifting reminder of the power of love, compassion, and living intentionally for the greater good.
📍This episode was recorded in Chester, Pennsylvania
Key Takeaways
The Greenhouse Concept: Like a physical greenhouse fosters growth, John believes environments rooted in love, faith, and community nurture spiritual and personal transformation.
The Power of Reconciliation: Owning past mistakes and working toward reconciliation brings healing for both individuals and relationships.
Community-Centric Ministry: Greenhouse Project programs are designed in response to the needs expressed by Chester residents, including education, recovery support, and community cleanups.
Living Love and Compassion: True compassion is about sitting with others, seeing their value, and understanding their story without judgment.
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John’s Links:
Website: https://www.ghproject.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-clifford-493635175/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jclifford634/
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Show Notes:
In this episode of The Human Experience, we sit down with Jeny, a Romanian native and social worker, to explore her extraordinary story. Jeny shares her experiences growing up under the communist regime in Romania, witnessing the 1989 revolution, and her current work with children in need through Firm Foundations Romania (FFR). Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of Romania’s history, resilience, and transformation over the past few decades.
Jeny’s dedication to helping others, her deep faith, and her reflections on community, compassion, and change create an inspiring narrative. Join us as we delve into her unique perspective and hear about her journey from childhood to becoming an advocate for vulnerable children.
📍This episode was recorded in Romania
Key Takeaways
Life Under Communism: Jeny recalls the scarcity of food and resources, strict rules, and the community bond that adversity fostered.
The Revolution of 1989: A life-altering event that ended decades of dictatorship and brought freedom—but also chaos—to Romania.
Orphan Crisis and Reform: The stark reality of orphanages in the 1990s, the international spotlight, and the reforms that followed to create a more robust child protection system.
Fostering and Adoption: The progress in Romania's foster care and adoption systems, and the ongoing efforts to support vulnerable children.
Faith and Compassion: Jeny’s unwavering commitment to helping others and her belief in the importance of love and community in driving change.
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Learn more about Firm Foundations Romania and their work! https://www.firmfoundationsromania.com/
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In this heartwarming and deeply insightful episode of The Human Experience, Jennfier sits down with Markella, a psychologist specializing in the identity shifts of parenthood, to explore the evolving nature of relationships, self-discovery, and the challenges of balancing societal expectations with personal growth. From the breathtaking setting of Athens to the universal struggles of navigating life’s changes, this conversation touches on themes of motherhood, cultural identity, and embracing transformation.
📍This episode was recorded in Athens, Greece
Key Takeaways
Parenthood is a journey of constant transformation. Embrace the change and allow yourself to redefine who you are at every stage of life.
Societal pressures don't define your worth. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent, a career-driven professional, or a hybrid of both, your path is valid.
Relationships evolve. Open communication, empathy, and intentional connection are critical to maintaining healthy partnerships in parenthood.
Support systems matter. Rebuilding the "village" concept can help mothers and fathers navigate the challenges of raising children while maintaining their individuality.
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Markella’s Links
Website: https://www.markellakaplani.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markella.kaplani
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markellakaplani.motherhoodcoach
Podcast: https://www.markellakaplani.com/podcast
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Welcome to a special recap episode of The Human Experience Podcast! In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin takes us on a journey through some of the most compelling and impactful moments from past conversations. Featuring highlights from some incredible guest interviews, Jennifer weaves these moments together with her own insights, reflecting on recurring themes and setting the stage for exciting conversations to come.
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December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.
In this deeply moving and inspirational episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Anne Byler, the founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels. Anne opens up about her journey through unimaginable trauma, spiritual confusion, and eventual redemption. With raw honesty, she shares her story of profound loss, spiritual abuse, and the path to creating a global brand out of a desire to support her family and community.
📍This episode was recorded in Texas
Key Takeaways
"Life is hard, but God is good." Anne reflects on the theological shift that allowed her to reconcile her experiences with her faith.
Secrets hold you captive. Freedom begins when you find the courage to share your story.
Redemption is complete. Anne’s journey from despair to building a globally recognized business is proof that healing and purpose can arise from pain.
Compassion requires action. Anne’s belief in noticing others and acting on their needs has been a cornerstone of her life and business philosophy.
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Auntie Anne’s Links:
Website: https://auntieannebeiler.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auntieanneb/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auntieannebeiler/
Books: https://shop.auntieannebeiler.com/
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In this inspiring episode of The Human Experience podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Susan, who shares an incredible story rooted in courage, resilience, and the enduring power of love. This episode reflects on Susan’s father’s harrowing experience as a World War II pilot and the profound legacy he left behind. Through their conversation, Jennifer and Susan explore themes of survival, generational impact, and the transformative power of storytelling to preserve memories and values for future generations.
📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Key Takeaways
Courage in Adversity: Susan’s father’s story is a testament to the bravery and selflessness required in wartime, as well as the power of community in protecting and preserving life.
Generational Legacy: The love and resilience that Susan’s father embodied continue to impact her family, underscoring the importance of storytelling in preserving values.
Unconditional Love: The episode reminds us that love without conditions is one of the most valuable gifts we can pass on to others.
The Power of Forgiveness: As Susan beautifully articulates, "The unforgiver carries the weight." Her father’s lessons about forgiveness and self-reflection are profound reminders of how we can release pain and grow.
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December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.
Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, murder, and suicide.
In this episode of The Human Experience podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Shelly, an author, activist, and survivor who shares her harrowing life story and the lessons she's learned along the way. Shelly's memoir, Beautiful Ashes, serves as the centerpiece of their conversation, shedding light on her incredible journey through loss, trauma, and ultimately resilience.
Key Takeaways
Facing the Worst and Finding Strength: Shelly's journey reveals how confronting unimaginable tragedy, such as the loss of her mother to domestic violence, can lead to profound personal strength and resilience.
Breaking the Cycle of Silence: By sharing her story in Beautiful Ashes, Shelly highlights the importance of breaking the silence around domestic violence and generational trauma to inspire healing and awareness.
The Complexity of Domestic Violence: Domestic violence is multifaceted, often intertwined with moments of normalcy, love, and fear, making it harder to recognize and escape.
Generational Trauma and Its Impact: Shelly's story underscores how cycles of abuse and trauma often span generations, shaping victims in ways that require intentional healing and intervention.
The Power of Forgiveness: Shelly’s decision to forgive her father, despite his heinous actions, reflects the liberating power of forgiveness in reclaiming one’s life and peace.
Healing Is Not Linear: Shelly’s recovery involved years of therapy and trying different modalities, showing that healing from trauma is a long, non-linear process requiring persistence and self-compassion.
Empathy as a Foundation for Compassion: Shelly emphasizes the need for empathy, encouraging others to view the world through others’ perspectives to build understanding and compassion.
Finding Purpose in Pain: Through advocacy and writing, Shelly has transformed her pain into a mission to help others navigate and overcome their own struggles, proving that adversity can lead to meaningful opportunities for growth.
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Shelly’s Links:
Website: https://www.beautifulashesmemoir.com/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautifulashesmemoir/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautifulashesmemoir/
Twitter: https://x.com/BeautifulAshes7
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF5RGyotMcj6Tb9kTxq0nZw
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Ashes-Murder-Betrayal-Womans-ebook/dp/B09KNWK5MP/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2G6NR3RAHO1WA&keywords=beautiful+ashes&qid=1681299104&sprefix=beautiful+ashe%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-2
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December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.
In this episode of The Human Experience Podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Laura, a long-time friend who works in a refugee resettlement. Through her story, Laura shares her journey from a small-town upbringing to finding her passion in helping displaced individuals build new lives. Laura’s work involves navigating the complexities of cultural differences, governmental processes, and the day-to-day challenges refugees face as they integrate into their new communities.
📍This episode was recorded in Orlando, FL
Key Takeaways
Discovering Purpose Through Unexpected Paths: Laura’s journey into refugee resettlement began unexpectedly, highlighting how unforeseen opportunities can lead to fulfilling life work.
Resilience of the Human Spirit: Refugees often endure unimaginable hardships yet demonstrate incredible resilience and determination to build better lives for themselves and their families.
The Complex Refugee Resettlement Process: Refugees undergo a rigorous vetting process before arriving in the U.S., debunking common misconceptions about their journey.
Proximity Breeds Compassion: Building relationships and engaging directly with refugee communities fosters understanding, dispels stereotypes, and amplifies empathy.
Faith in Action: Laura’s story challenges faith communities to actively support refugees, moving beyond sermons to tangible acts of love and service.
The Importance of Cultural Diversity: Refugees enrich communities with their traditions, languages, and talents, creating a more vibrant and dynamic society.
Opportunities to Get Involved: From mentorship to donations, anyone can make a difference by supporting resettlement agencies and welcoming refugees into their communities.
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There are so many opportunities for U.S. citizens to welcome refugees to the United States; to help them begin to build a home, and to break barriers that are forged by misinformation and ignorance. Check out one of these organizations for more information (all U.S. based):
Alight
International Rescue Committee
Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Service
National Immigration Forum
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In this episode of The Human Experience podcast, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Katja, a hypnotherapist, life coach, and healer, to explore her remarkable journey from debilitating illness to self-discovery and empowerment. Katja shares her struggles with fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, mercury poisoning, and even cancer, offering an intimate look into her path to healing. Through emotional storytelling, she illustrates the power of compassion, self-reconnection, and addressing trauma at its roots. The conversation dives deep into the importance of addressing subconscious beliefs, unlearning inherited patterns, and cultivating a meaningful relationship with oneself.
📍This episode was recorded in Robinj, Croatia
Key Takeaways
Healing Trauma: Katya emphasizes that trauma doesn't need to stem from major life events. Unmet needs in childhood can lead to lasting emotional wounds that shape our beliefs and behaviors.
Meditation and Self-Work: Regular meditation and introspection are vital for emotional and physical healing. Katya’s journey highlights how consistent practice led to a significant shift in her health and outlook.
The Power of the Subconscious Mind: Addressing and rewiring subconscious beliefs can radically transform one’s life, allowing for emotional and physical breakthroughs.
Compassion as the Foundation: Self-compassion is essential for healing and extends naturally to others, enabling forgiveness and emotional release.
Unlearning and Rewiring: Personal transformation involves shedding outdated beliefs and narratives, reconnecting to one’s essence, and embracing a life rooted in authenticity.
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Katja’s Links
Website: https://mindive.life/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katja.matosevic.mindstrategist
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katya.matosevic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katjamatosevic/
Email: katja@mindive.life
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In this heartfelt and transformative episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Nadia at her home in Northern Italy for a profound conversation on healing, self-discovery, and living with purpose. Nadia shares her life's journey from childhood challenges to a thriving life in Italy, highlighting her experiences with feeling like a foreigner, facing health crises, navigating depression, and ultimately finding peace and purpose within herself. Together, Jennifer and Nadia explore themes of interconnectedness, self-love, spirituality, and compassion as Nadia details her work with "The Love Solution," a program that facilitates healing and helps individuals reconnect with their true selves. This episode offers a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty of the human spirit and the healing potential of love.
📍This episode was recorded in Northern Italy
Key Takeaways
Finding Peace Within Challenges: Nadia’s journey exemplifies how even the most difficult life challenges, including childhood bullying, feeling like an outsider, and health crises, can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.
Near-Death Experience and Life Transformation: A life-threatening asthma attack became a turning point for Nadia, motivating her to radically change her lifestyle, prioritize her health, and ultimately shift her outlook on life.
The Power of Self-Love and Self-Trust: Nadia emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-trust as foundational elements for personal growth, healing, and finding true freedom and happiness.
Holistic Healing – Mind, Body, and Soul: Nadia’s work focuses on integrating all aspects of a person—mind, body, and soul—to facilitate deep and lasting healing, demonstrating how all parts of ourselves are interconnected.
Compassion and Interconnectedness: Nadia highlights the importance of seeing ourselves and others through eyes of love and compassion, understanding that many negative behaviors stem from a place of disconnection from one’s true self.
The Love Solution Program: Through "The Love Solution," Nadia helps people reconnect with their true selves by fostering self-love, healing relationships, and understanding their life purpose in a simple and accessible way.
Embracing Spirituality and Personal Growth: Nadia’s journey showcases the role of spirituality and inner work in finding meaning, healing, and purpose in life, ultimately leading her to help others on their own paths.
Living a Life of Purpose: Nadia believes that every person has a unique purpose and a responsibility to share their light with the world. Her work is dedicated to helping others realize and embody this truth.
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Nadia’s Links
Website: www.nadiawongauthor.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadiawongthehappinesscoach?igsh=b3AzbHlkaDIydW1i
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009322990429
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Amey to explore her journey of self-discovery and empowerment following the abrupt end of her 29-year marriage. Amey candidly shares the challenges of navigating life as a mother, wife, and professional, only to find herself grappling with an identity crisis after her divorce. Despite the initial pain and grief, Amey turned her circumstances into a catalyst for personal growth and transformation, eventually helping other women rediscover their authentic selves.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
Key Takeaways
Turning Pain Into Power: Amey's divorce, though initially devastating, became a springboard for her greatest personal transformations.
Rediscovering Identity: From simple acts like learning what she liked to eat alone to exploring new passions such as travel, Amey slowly pieced together her true self.
Empowering Others: Today, Amey uses her journey to inspire and coach other women to reclaim their identities with courage and authenticity.
Finding Joy and Healing in Service: Volunteering played a key role in Amey’s healing journey, reinforcing that serving others can help mend a broken spirit.
Practical Steps for Growth: Amey emphasizes the importance of holding onto personal passions and giving oneself grace in times of transition.
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Amey’s Links
Website: https://my-resilient-journey.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameydeanne/?hl=en, https://www.instagram.com/resilient.tx/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amey.deanne/, https://www.facebook.com/amey.deanne
Chapters:
[00:00] – Introduction
[00:45] – Amey's Story & Her Transformation
[03:07] – Coping & Rediscovering Sense of Self
[05:25] – Navigating Societal Expectations
[12:23] – Working Through Divorce
[19:21] – Discovering New Passions
[25:56] – Amey’s Writing & Storytelling
[32:46] – Unexpected Challenges & Entering the Dating Scene
[37:26] – Cultivating Happiness
[41:47] – Coaching Women to Reclaim Their Identities
[48:13] – Amey’s Upcoming Work
[50:20] – Power of Compassion & Open-Mindedness
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Welcome to another episode of The Human Experience! In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Vanessa, a former television producer who, at the height of her career, faced a life-altering illness. Vanessa's journey of unexpected blindness and paralysis, and her arduous path to recovery, reveals the extraordinary power of resilience, self-compassion, and the mind-body connection.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
Key Takeaways:
Transforming Trauma into a Journey of Discovery: After an illness left Vanessa blind and paralyzed, she channeled her producer instincts to approach her recovery like a project, recording daily progress and setting small but meaningful goals. Her journey underscores how trauma can become a powerful catalyst for self-discovery.
Rediscovering Vision and the Mind’s Role in Recovery: Vanessa designed her own vision exercises, challenging the brain’s adaptability and creating daily “experiments” to help retrain her sight. Her recovery experience reveals the intricate relationship between the mind and body and the importance of patience in physical and mental healing.
Collaboration with Science to Understand the Brain: Vanessa’s curiosity led to collaborations with neuroscientists, resulting in art-science projects like visualizing mindfulness with brainwave data. Her story highlights how community and interdisciplinary partnerships can support individual healing and inspire larger scientific insights.
Mind-Body Practices as Healing Tools: Through breathing exercises, visualization, and hypnotherapy, Vanessa found powerful methods to manage PTSD and anxiety. Her experience shows the value of exploring various mindfulness practices and finding personalized methods that resonate, especially during recovery from trauma.
Nature as a Gateway to Self-Care: Vanessa’s advocacy for forest bathing—a slow, sensory-focused walk in nature—reflects her belief in nature’s restorative power. She encourages this accessible practice to help people connect with their senses, reduce stress, and find emotional balance.
Compassion as a Superpower: For Vanessa, compassion was a skill she had to rediscover, not only as self-kindness but as a transformative power that enables resilience. She highlights that compassion often grows stronger through adversity and can become a profound source of inner strength.
Flexibility in Healing: Customizing Mind-Body Practices: Vanessa encourages a flexible approach to healing, suggesting people try different practices (like mindfulness, nature connection, and body-based practices) to discover what best supports them. Her story champions a personalized journey in wellness and self-care.
Embracing a New Normal and Giving Back: Rather than returning to her previous life, Vanessa embraced a new purpose, dedicating herself to developing wellness programs, community-led nature therapy, and science-based initiatives that inspire others to reclaim their health and well-being.
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Vanessa’s Links
Website: https://vanessapotter.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessapotterwrites, https://www.instagram.com/parkbathe/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanessaPotterWrites/, https://www.facebook.com/parkbathe
X: https://x.com/patienth69, https://x.com/park_bathe
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In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Samantha, a passionate health coach and osteopath, to discuss her journey toward achieving "food freedom" and helping others do the same. Samantha shares her struggles with body image, binge eating, and restrictive dieting from a young age, and how she transformed her relationship with food and wellness. By embracing the connection between mental and physical health, Samantha now empowers others to break free from unhealthy cycles and find sustainable wellness.Donate to The Human Experience PodcastFollow Along on InstagramVisit The WebsiteSend me an email at TheHXPod@gmail.com
In this heartfelt episode, Saloni, a former HIV and sexual health physician, shares her transformative journey from a respected career in medicine to becoming a trauma coach, focusing on EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Saloni’s story highlights the devastating impact of workplace bullying and how it led her to leave a career she was passionate about. Through her own healing process, she discovered a new purpose in motherhood, coaching, and becoming a published author of children's and young adult fiction.
📍This episode was recorded in Chester, England
Thank you to Magic Mind for sponsoring this video! You have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code “THE20” at checkout. You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/the20
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Saloni’s Links
Website: salonisurah.com
Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/SaloniSurahAuthor
Instagram: https://instagram.com/salonibook
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@bedtimestoriesbysaloni
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Flora-Investigates-Case-Missing-Gold/dp/1739448405
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In this heartfelt episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Paola, an artist originally from Bulgaria, who shares her extraordinary journey through personal challenges, loss, and triumph. Paola recounts her experiences with multiple miscarriages, the struggles within the healthcare system, and her relentless advocacy for her own health and her children’s well-being. From the emotional toll of infant loss to seeking alternative treatments for her son’s developmental delays, Paola's story is one of resilience, courage, and the ultimate rediscovery of her passion for art.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
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Paola’s Links:
Portfolio: https://paola.art/
Business Suite: https://digibees.studio/
Facebook: Personal @paolaminekov & Page @paolaminekovart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paolaminekov/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolaminekov
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In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin interviews Natasha, who shares her powerful story of growing up between Pakistan and the UK, navigating cultural differences, and how those experiences shaped her into the woman she is today. Natasha reflects on her journey into social work, motherhood, and the struggles of postpartum anxiety, highlighting the importance of resilience, empathy, and community.
📍This episode was recorded in Manchester, England
Natasha’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tashastales?igsh=bW53dnp2cG04ams0&utm_source=qr
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7oyoK8WRT061QCPO9WgHFe?si=iZDInQLdRJOXQ-N0ulSqdQ
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Paula, a health and happiness coach for leaders. Paula shares her journey from being a self-proclaimed people pleaser to undergoing a profound transformation following a near-death experience during the birth of her first son. This episode dives deep into topics of personal growth, healing, the mind-body connection, and the importance of setting boundaries. Paula’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of aligning our actions with our decisions.
📍This episode was recorded in Oulu, Finland
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In this powerful episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Celest, a passionate advocate for intuitive living and compassion. Together, they explore how life’s challenges, such as personal loss, career changes, and navigating self-doubt, can be transformative forces that lead us to our true purpose.
📍This episode was recorded in Odense, Denmark
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations around mental health and suicide. Please proceed with care.
In this episode of the Human Experience Podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Alexandra Catalina Guitza, also known as Cathy, for a profound conversation about her life journey, spanning different cultures, mental health challenges, and the pursuit of a global identity. Cathy reflects on her upbringing in post-communist Romania, her extensive travels through Germany, India, Thailand, and her current life in Prague. She opens up about her struggles with mental health, including depression, anxiety, and a psychotic episode, and how medication played a critical role in her recovery. Cathy shares insights from her "Eat, Pray, Love" journey of self-discovery and discusses her current focus on building a life rooted in mental wellness, authenticity, and compassion.
📍This episode was recorded in Bucharest, Romania
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Cathy’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordywitness
TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/wordywitness
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains detailed and graphic discussions of domestic violence, physical violence, rape, and suicide. The content may be distressing for some listeners. Please proceed with caution and take care of your mental and emotional well-beinng.
In this second part of Alisa’s story, host Jennifer Peterkin continues the conversation about Alisa's harrowing journey through domestic violence and the fight for justice after being rescued from her husband's violent kidnapping and assault. Alisa recounts her legal battle, including the re-traumatizing process of facing her abuser in court, who chose to represent himself. She shares the impact this had on her healing journey, her children’s trauma, and the systemic failures that allowed her abuse to escalate.
📍This episode was recorded in Westchester, Pennsylvania
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Trigger Warning
This episode contains detailed and graphic discussions of domestic violence, physical violence, rape, and suicide. The content may be distressing for some listeners. Please proceed with caution and take care of your mental and emotional well-being.
📍This episode was recorded in West Chester, Pennsylvania
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In this powerful episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), to explore her journey into the fight against sexual exploitation. Dawn shares her personal experiences, the challenges of her work, and the incredible victories achieved through grassroots advocacy. This episode sheds light on the importance of unity, the impact of survivor-led initiatives, and the ongoing battle to hold corporations and policymakers accountable for protecting human dignity.
📍This episode was recorded in Washington D.C.
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Dawn’s Links:
National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): https://endsexualexploitation.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endexploitation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centeronexploitation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD45nGjBYtEcVXFqXk7LUjg
X: https://x.com/ncose
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In this powerful episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Cecile, a woman whose life journey has taken her across continents and through profound challenges. Born in the Central African Republic, Cecile's early years were marked by a deep connection to her homeland, but her life took unexpected turns as she moved from Africa to Europe and eventually to the United States.
📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpod
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Crina, a remarkable woman who shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a Roma village in Romania to building a new life in the UK. Crina’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of education.
📍This episode was recorded in Kettering, England
Crina’s Links:
Children's Book: Happy Hippo and Kind Goose available on Amazon Kindle
Learn More About Firm Foundations Romania: To learn more about the organization that played a pivotal role in Karina’s life, visit firmfoundationsromania.com
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In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Andarge, a vibrant and humorous radio and podcast host, to share her journey and insights into the intersection of fashion and social justice. Known for her lively personality and deep discussions, Andarge brings a unique perspective to the table.
📍This episode was recorded in Savannah, GA
Andarge’s Links:
Website: https://takeitofffashionpodcast.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeitoffshow/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Takeitoffshow
X: https://x.com/Takeitoffshow
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@takeitoffshow
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📍This episode was recorded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rachel’s Links:
Travel Agent
Website: www.magicalworldofrachel.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicalworldofrachel/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fairytalejourneysbyrachelturley
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_y812c1Z3yveE7-ovz5doA?view_as=subscriber
Hair Stylist
Website: www.wonderlandstudiopa.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelturleybeauty/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelturleybeauty
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📍This episode was recorded in Nairobi, Kenya
Kelvin’s Links:
https://rusticnature.tours
Instagram: @rusticnaturetours
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📍This episode was recorded in Towson, Maryland
Becca’s Links:
https://extendcoach.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccapearce/
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Today, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Cynthia Newberry Martin, a lawyer by training who found her true calling as a writer. Despite her legal career, Cynthia's passion for storytelling never waned, leading her to publish her first book in 2019 and subsequently win several writing awards, highlighting how writing has broadened her empathy and connection with the world.
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In this powerful episode, host Jennifer Peterkin dives into the harrowing and inspiring story of J.D. McCabe, a father of two who endured severe domestic abuse. J.D.'s journey from being trapped in an abusive marriage to finding liberation is detailed in his memoir, The Third Gift.
This conversation contains discussions about domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised.
📍This episode was recorded in Charleston, South Carolina
J.D.’s Links:
Website: https://thirdgift.com/
Book: https://thirdgift.com/books/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thethirdgift/?hl=en
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thethirdgift?xmt=AQGzrKf_OCRtAhuM1UZ8ajzIhrE8Dn8ZwfE7VYnjUo7D5Tw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thirdgift
Twitter: https://x.com/thirdgiftbook
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thethirdgift
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In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin interviews Kathy Izard, an award-winning philanthropist, author, and speaker who recently launched her podcast, What's Your Whisper? Kathy shares her inspiring journey from being a graphic designer to becoming a prominent advocate for the homeless, an author of three nonfiction books, two children's books, and a coach helping others find their purpose.
📍This episode was recorded in Charlotte, North Carolina
Kathy’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathyizardclt/ and https://www.instagram.com/womenfaithstory/
Websites: https://www.kathyizard.com/ and https://www.womenfaithstory.com/
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In this episode, Tony shares his incredible journey from a small-town upbringing in Madison, Maine, to becoming a prominent figure in the Nashville music scene. He reflects on his early love for music, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the challenges he faced along the way. Today, Tony is a Nashville-based musician and independent producer, with multiple Grammy nominations to his name.
📍This episode was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee
Tony’s Links:
Website: https://tonymantor.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonymantor/
Twitter: https://x.com/TonyMantor?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonymantor/
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In today’s episode, host Jennifer Peterkin is joined by the inspiring Martha Kartaoui, who endured years of spiritual and physical oppression within a religious cult. Martha’s story is one of resilience, healing, and transformation.
Today’s conversation contains discussions around cults and severe abuse. Please proceed with care.
📍This episode was recorded in Durham, North Carolina
Martha’s Links:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/martha-kartaoui-a7840b291
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martha.kartaoui?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marthakartaoui/?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D
Website: www.picwellnessllc.com
Purchase Martha’s Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Glory-Going-Survivor-Courageous-Warrior/dp/B0D4FCDMY4
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In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Amy Frame, a resilient and inspiring individual whose life took dramatic turns. At nine years old, Amy decided she wanted to join the military, a dream she fulfilled on her 18th birthday. However, her path was profoundly impacted by the events of September 11th, which occurred just seven days before her basic training was set to begin. Amy's journey includes high-stress military roles and a subsequent career as an ER nurse during COVID, which led her to relocate across the country for a slower pace of life and to start her own nurse coaching business. Amy's story is a testament to the power of choosing change and cultivating joy.
📍This episode was recorded in Maryville, Tennessee.
Amy's Links:
Email: amy@amyscoaching.com
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Much of Bruce's adult life was in corporate America; he moved his family around for jobs before finally settling in North Carolina and starting his own business. As he was thinking about retirement and on the cusp of selling his business, he received a cancer diagnosis.
Thankfully, Bruce is in remission. But during his battle with cancer and beyond, he chose to see the good; he chose to get curious.
Bruce seeks out adventure at every turn, pushing himself to try new things, get out of his comfort zone, and above all else, to keep asking questions.
Buy Bruce's book - There Are No Answers Here, Only Questions
Visit Bruce's website
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This episode is a bit different than those we've done in the past; I had four guests on to discuss some of the intricacies and lesser discussed issues within Interpersonal Violence (also known as IPV) - namely, cyber stalking and parent/child alienation.
While many have suffered from both cyber stalking and parent/child alienation, there are still many that don't know much about it, and more importantly, how the system fails the victims.
Cyber stalking and parent/child alienation are difficult to legislate, for different reasons. But what remains the same is that very often in cases of IPV, victims see no justice.
Both Rhyan Strasters and Brian Martin are working, respectively, to bring new legislation to the table so that both of these issues can be better handled in the future.
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When Chandrika Phea went to China as a Christian missionary, she assumed her life would follow the trail that had been forged before her. An ordained minister in her own right, Chandrika grew up the daughter and granddaughter of minister's in the African American Pentecostal church.
But upon her return from China, Chandrika found herself with more questions than answers, and she struggled to find her footing within the American church again.
Chandrika's book is a raw and unabashed look at her journals she kept while she was serving in China, and an unflinching commentary on how far she has come since then.
Buy Chandrika's Book - Lord, I Don't Want To Die A Christian
Visit Chandrika's Linktree
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Heidy is the proud daughter and wife of immigrants. Though she was born an American citizen, she has spent her life around those who have immigrated to the United States in search of "The American Dream".
Heidy has a unique view of what it means to be an immigrant in America as someone that has walked alongside and done life with many people who made the US their home after moving here.
Heidy is an author, speaker, podcast coach, and she hosts a podcast called "The American Dream Through the Eyes of Immigrants". In her show, she interviews people about what it means to them to create their life in the US, the joys and the struggles.
Heidy's Podcast
Heidy's Instagram
Heidy's LinkTree
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When Heather and her husband found out they were pregnant with their first child, it was a time of celebration. Like many newlyweds, they were excited to start their family.
What they couldn't have foreseen was the gut-wrenching reality of infant loss that many live with every day.
At 38 weeks, Heather lost her baby boy. Because it was so late in the pregnancy, she had to deliver him, even while knowing that he was no longer alive.
For years, Heather battled with the grief that comes with such unexpected trauma. It took nearly two decades, but Heather is now telling her story to share both the realities of infant loss and the effects it can have on your life, as well as the hope that exists in healing.
This episode was recorded in St. Louis, Missouri.
Content Warning: this episode contains conversations around infant loss and suicide.
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Julie has the kind of story that you look back on and say, how can one person have lived through so much? Growing up in an abusive household, Julie was eager to get away as soon as she had her high school diploma. But escaping your past and your trauma, aren't necessarily easy; especially when life continues to get harder.
Because of how involved Julie's story is, it's split into 2 parts. This is part 2, where Julie talks about navigating difficult relationships, and multiple serious illnesses that have affected their family relationships.
You can visit Julie's website here.
This episode was recorded in Dallas, Texas.
Content Warning - this episode contains conversations around abuse.
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Julie has the kind of story that you look back on and say, how can one person have lived through so much? Growing up in an abusive household, Julie was eager to get away as soon as she had her high school diploma. But escaping your past and your trauma, aren't necessarily easy; especially when life continues to get harder.
Because of how involved Julie's story is, it's split into 2 parts. This is part 1, where Julie talks about growing up, getting married, having young children, and navigating all of that while walking through abuse, uncertainty, injury, and illness.
You can visit Julie's website here.
This episode was recorded in Dallas, Texas.
Content Warning - this episode contains conversations around abuse.
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Cody was a paramedic for over a decade. He spent more than ten years of seeing some of the saddest and worst parts of humanity, some of whom he knew personally. While he did so much good during that time, it left him numb, needing to dissociate and rely on alcohol to get through.
When his family encouraged him to go on a missions trip, it was the last thing he wanted to do. But spurred on by his mom and his niece, Cody went. And he found a new dream.
These days, Cody describes himself as a missionary to missionaries. He spends his time working with individual missionaries, small organizations, and orphans around the world.
This episode was recorded in Brasov, Romania.
Content Warning: This episode contains conversations around trauma, death, and drug use. Names have been changed in this episode to protect the identity of those involved.
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Quanisha is a doula operating in San Antonio Texas, as well as a leader of the San Antonio Black Doula Collective.
While doula may or man not be a term you're familiar with, the practice of being the emotional, mental, and physical support for a woman leading up to, including, and after birth, their role has existed for centuries.
Quanisha is diligent in supporting her clients through the entire process of pregnancy, birth, and after care. It is her work in this community that got her involved with the San Antonio Black Doula Collective - a nonprofit that seeks to "support black families and doulas of San Antonio to help counter the high rates of maternal and infant mortality rates..."
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Learn more about the San Antonio Black Doula Collective
This episode was recorded in San Antonio, Texas.
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When Mel was a teenager, still under her parents care, she was diagnosed with a progressive autoimmune disorder. While a diagnosis like that is bound to change your life in some way, the reality was that Mel had to start thinking about what she and her husband-to-be wanted their future to look like; this disorder could make it complicated to have children.
Knowing they wanted kids, Mel and her husband began planning for a family right away. And while they were able to welcome their first child without many complications, the story of Mel's subsequent pregnancies are ones of pain, grief, and confusion.
Infant loss is an incredibly difficult, but important, topic to speak about. It's important because so many women are suffering in silence, feeling as though they have done something wrong.
But there is help and there is hope. If you are struggling with infertility or infant loss, you are not incomplete, or bad, or wrong.
Mel's story is, ultimately, one of joy. And while not everyone will have the same outcome, telling these stories is important because they help us to know that we are not alone.
Purchase Mel's Book, Tiny Miracles
Join Mel's Facebook Group
This episode was recorded in Dallas, Texas.
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As a pastor's kid, Hesron always knew what was expected of him. He played the part well, but from a young age, Hesron began living in two separate worlds. He was one person while he was in front of others, and someone else behind closed doors.
After being introduced to pornography at the age of 12, Hesron struggled with an addiction to it for more than a decade; and it escalated until he hit his lowest point - being unfaithful to his wife.
It was through his willingness to take accountability for his actions, his humility in seeking help, and his faith that Hesron has ultimately found healing.
Visit Hesron's Website
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This episode was recorded in Austin, Texas.
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Christine had her first surgery when she was only a couple of months old. Now, well into adulthood, Christine has had over twenty surgeries for the bilateral cleft lip and palate that she was born with.
The physical difficulties were one thing, but the emotional and social fallout have caused the biggest scars. Christine spent many years feeling othered, and outcast. People refused to give her a chance, even when she was determined to prove herself.
But where others may have given up, Christine fought. She fought for herself and her position. She accomplished lifelong goals and worked to become the person she wanted to be.
These days, Christine is an advocate for the cleft lip and palate community, working with the nonprofit organization Smile Train to provide education and resources for all about cleft lip and palate.
Visit Christine's Facebook & Instagram
This episode was recorded in Gainesville, Florida.
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Auntie Anne Beiler grew up in the Amish-Mennonite Community in south central Pennsylvania. It was there she met her husband, Jonas, and where they began their life together.
Walking through the insurmountable grief of losing one of her children to an accident, and then being sexually abused by a person she trusted, Anne was quite lost for a period of time.
But, as she began to talk about her grief and her shame and her guilt and her loss, she started to find freedom.
It was in the midst of this healing that she opened a pretzel stand at an Amish market. And it was that pretzel stand, or more importantly, that pretzel recipe, that would begin Auntie Anne’s Pretzel Company, changing Anne and her family’s lives forever.
Visit Anne's Website
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This episode was recorded in Texas.
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Sometimes, it takes a traumatic event to wake us up out of the fog we're walking through. For Stephanie, that event came in the form of slamming her finger in a car door. While not the source of her trials, it did help her to see that she indeed needed a change.
The past six years have been formative, and certainly difficult, as Stephanie completely shifted her life - her marriage, her goals, her priorities, her values. The car door incident wasn't pretty, but it brought clarity.
Along this winding path, Stephanie decided to open a business called NEO (New Eyes Open) Strategic to try and help others make plans for themselves and their businesses; plans that make sense and align with their values and goals.
Stephanie's business - Neo Strategic
Stephanie's Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
This episode was recorded in Austin, Texas.
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Karen had been working intensively towards a career goal for half a decade, but when she finally made it into her "dream job", she found that it wasn't as dreamy as she thought it would be.
Having recently entered motherhood, Karen realized that what she wanted had shifted. In fact, her entire identity had shifted.
Through making tough choices, redefining success, and getting the help of her own coach, Karen was able to construct a life that fit who she had become.
These days, Karen's focus is helping other parents walk in their newly formed identities through her own coaching platform, Karen Jane DeWitt Coaching, and her podcast, Juggling Joy.
Book a free visioning session at Karen Jane DeWitt Coaching.
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Listen to the Juggling Joy Podcast
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This episode was recorded in Austin, Texas.
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From travel agent to traveller, from teacher to seeker, Jen has made a beautiful life from the myriad opportunities that have come her way. Never one to let something meaningful pass her by, she has seen and done more than many of us, simply by saying yes.
Jen has taught in Poland, safari'd in Tanzania, adventured in New Zealand, and most recently, is working with Roma children in Brasov, Romania. She is the embodiment of a free spirit, going wherever she is called and being willing to lend her expertise (whether it be teaching or go-karting) along the way.
Jen is currently working with Firm Foundations Romania. For more information, see the links below:
Firm Foundations Romania Website - learn about projects and how to get involved!
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This episode was recorded in Brasov, Romania.
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Sarah and Steffi, the co-founders of FFR, were featured in our last two episodes. Now, I sit down with all three members of FFR's leadership team Sarah, Mary & Steffi, to discuss their organization, projects, and life in Romania.
The mission of Firm Foundations Romania:FFR believes that all people are made in the image of God and are therefore worthy of love, respect and dignity. It is because of this that we are committed to caring for and supporting the Roma community in Romania by offering access to education, tangible resources, and the Gospel.
Their vision:Our focus is loving the unloved and providing educational opportunities to the forgotten youth of this country. Our vision is for every disadvantaged Romanian child to experience the power of God’s love in order to live life to the fullest; our hope, that they would then be influenced to serve others and be an example for the people of Romania.
Click the links below to learn more!
Firm Foundations Romania Website - learn about projects and how to get involved!
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This episode was recorded in Brasov, Romania.
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Steffi is the other half of the Firm Foundations Romania founding duo. Although she grew up in the Black Forest in Germany, Steffi has now spent more of her life in Romania than anywhere else. It's where she has made her home. And it's where she adopted three Romanian children after volunteering in both the state run children's orphanage and the children's hospital where she would meet and bond with all three of her kids.
Firm Foundations Romania Website - learn about projects and how to get involved!
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This episode was recorded near Stuttgart, Germany.
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The youngest of seven sisters, Sarah always knew that music was in her future. What she didn't know that it would take leaving home, moving to Eastern Europe, and co-founding a nonprofit in Transylvania to get there.
In 2005, Sarah began a diaper project with her best friend and business partner, Steffi Vogel (whose own episode will be released in a couple weeks!) in a children't hospital in Brasov, Romania. That seemingly small act would catapult them both into a beginning a globally recognized nonprofit, Firm Foundations Romania.
Through the years, Sarah has written songs based on her experiences living in Romania, and she performs them all over the world as she shares about their heart for the Roma children of Romania.
Be sure to visit Sarah's website for more info.
You can listen to her music on Apple Music, YouTube, and Spotify. Sarah has a new album coming out this month called Keep Going.
For any talent inquiries, please contact sarahviennamusic@gmail.com
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So much of Maureen's life has been wrapped up in her career - with dance companies, theaters, museums, nonprofits, political campaign's, and more; her ventures have been varied and many.
When Maureen got COVID in March of 2020, all of that came to a screeching halt. Due to
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Originally from the European country of Georgia, Lela has spent the last twenty years working hard to build the life she dreamed.
Formerly a journalist, now an entrepreneur and owner of multiple businesses, Lela is proud of the success that she has built for herself and her family - a legacy that will far outlive her.
Lela's story of perseverance, determination, and grace, is not unlike many stories of immigrants - leaving people and places they love to take a chance somewhere else. But it's a great reminder that while we may not have control over what happens to us, we have the ability to choose how we will react to it.
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Susan's father was a pilot in World War II for the United States of America. While serving in France, his plan was shot down. Thus began a stranger than fiction story that impacted not only him, but the generations that have come after him.
Stories like Susan's are fascinating. The story itself is quite incredible, but I think what's more is how important our legacies are to those around us, and how sacred it is to preserve them.
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When she graduated high school, Kristen was set on going to university to eventually have a career in architecture. After a slight shift in her major, and a major left turn in her life, Kristen is now a global gender equity specialist. Her two years volunteering with the Peace Corps in Ghana, as well as the many other places she has traveled and worked since then, have made her a powerful ally for women worldwide, and an expert in her field.
Kristen's Website & Socials
Kristen's Bio:
Kristen M. Vogel, M.A. (Yogini A.) (she/they) is a cross-sectoral cultural consultant and a global gender equity specialist. A global citizen with nearly a decade of professional experience in diverse cultures, Kristen is an advocate for equitable policy and women’s representation and voice. A transnational feminist anthropologist, she values diverse perspectives in/on leadership and recognizes indigenous matriarchies as valuable models for the achievement of gender parity at all levels of decision-making (UN SDG 5.5). Having worked across local governments, nonprofits/ NGOs, social enterprises, and civil society and multilateral organizations in Ghana, Costa Rica, India, and the U.S., she quickly adapts to new languages and cultures. As a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs, Kristen creatively implemented equitable policy across sectors through national legislative research and network building for pay equity, the creation of scalable culture-centered operations models for racial and socio-economic equity, data visualization for transparent budgeting, and implementation of strategic City procurement processes for innovation equity. Kristen is currently a Public Policy Advocate with Black Women’s Policy Center, while seeking a full-time position to further her career in the pursuit of gender equity.
Kristen is also a yoga student/teacher, horseback riding teacher/ trail guide/ wrangler, barista and an aspiring social entrepreneur, among other things.
The content of this podcast is Kristen’s alone and does not reflect the views of the U.S. Government, the Peace Corp, or the Ghanaian Government
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Part 2 of Ro & Bree's Story finds them facing down a global pandemic having both lost their jobs, with a baby at home. It was their dream or die moment, and they chose to dream.
To hear Ro & Bree explain it, this was always inside of them. Love The People has always been their heart. It's more than a company, it's a movement. One as radical as it is simple - love people well.
Ro & Bree have offered listeners of The Human Experience 20% off their purchase! If you visit their site and use the code THEHXPOD20
PLUS, 10% of every order goes directly World Central Kitchen.
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Ro & Bree are the ultimate husband and wife duo - raising a family and building their business together. Their love for each other, and for people in general, is inspiring.
After years of walking together through incredibly difficult, and mysterious, health issues, they came out on the other side wanting to leave a positive and lasting impact on the world. They know what it means to live as though you haven't got much time left, and they've dedicated their lives to one of the only things you can leave behind - love.
Ro & Bree have offered listeners of The Human Experience 20% off their purchase! If you visit their site and use the code THEHXPOD20
PLUS, 10% of every order goes directly World Central Kitchen.
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Winnie grew up enjoying the simplicity of farm life in rural Kenya; not one for the business of the city, she found her peace among the crops at her grandmother's farm. As an adult, though, Winnie traded the serene country life for one of turmoil; but it is within that life that she found her center.
Kakuma and Dadaab are two of the largest refugee camps in Kenya. In fact, Dadaab used to be the largest camp in the world. As a humanitarian aid worker in the camps, you live alongside those displaced and disavowed. Winnie's experience working in the camps are what she carries closest to her heart, they fuel her desire for justice and restoration.
At the time of the recording, Winnie was the Program Director for Neema, a nonprofit dedicated to the holistic thriving of young, vulnerable women in western Kenya. You can read more about Neema here.
Winnie is also a published author. While she dreams of publishing her novel one day, she contributed to a collection of short stories called Nairobi Noir. You can purchase Nairobi Noir here or wherever books are sold.
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Eric is bi-racial; his mom is white and his dad is black. His experience of being bi-racial is not one we often hear when talking about social complexities, but it's important nonetheless.
Eric is a counselor by trade, a job that seems to suit him well as he is able to access and express his emotions freely, a skill that not everyone has honed. His yearning for both justice and compassion are a well established tension, a tightrope, that he walks determinedly in his pursuit of understanding.
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Hannah is the co-founder of a drop-in center in Columbus, OH called Sanctuary Night. Serving vulnerable women on the streets, Sanctuary Night meets the practical needs that we often take for granted, while also offering a space free of judgement or shame for women to find refuge and rest.
Having experienced her own trauma early on in life, Hannah's learned capacity for compassion and grace have allowed her to champion others in pursuit of justice, love, and mercy.
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Irine's joy is contagious. She is exactly the type of person that lights up a room. But that doesn't mean that her life has been easy; on the contrary, Irine has had to fight against social and familial norms to get to where she is today. And she is helping other young women get there too.
Learn more about Neema
Learn more about Neema's capital campaign - Securing Her Future
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In the beginning of 2022, Tyler was on top of the world; he loved his life, he loved where he lived, and he knew that he had no definite plans for the future - just the way he preferred it. But just a few short months later, so much of that would change.
Tyler's story offers a unique perspective - being the partner of someone that is dealing with a serious mental health condition.
Mental health is a topic that should be handled with care and respect. It is for that reason that we have focused mainly on Tyler's perspective during this story. Additionally, names have been changed to protect the identity of those involved.
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Shelly Edwards Jorgensen is the author of Beautiful Ashes, a memoir about her life growing up in a domestic violence household and the permanent consequences it can have on your life.
Shelly's father murdered her mother when Shelly was 15. It was both a shock and something that she had been waiting to happen. Shelly's story of growth and perseverance is hard-won. Her strength, wisdom, and humility are to be admired.
Shelly's Website | Shelly's Facebook | Shelly's Instagram
Buy Shelly's Book on Amazon or wherever books are sold online.
TW: This episode contains conversations about domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, murder, and suicide.
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Alli is a licensed clinical social worker serving an extremely vulnerable population in the heart of Pittsburgh - those struggling with chronic, severe mental illness.
The organization Alli works for, People's Oakland, is a pillar of their community - offering a respite and a space for safe, holistic healing to its members.
Alli's journey to finding her purpose in this line of work is poignant and a beautiful example of how we never really know what opportunities are going to open up, and where our hearts will lead us.
For more information about People's Oakland, visit their website.
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Loitanit has had aspirations beyond her hometown of Kitale, Kenya for as long as she can remember. Growing up as a pastors kid, she saw people visit from all over the world.
When she had the opportunity to go to the United States for school, Loitanit jumped at the chance; hoping to make her home there. But her family needed her back home.
Now, Loitanit works for Neema as the the Business Skills Development Mentor for Alumni. She's good at what she does, and she enjoys the work. But in her heart, she still dreams of new adventures outside of her corner of the world in Kitale, Kenya.
Listen to Jackie's episode
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The word refugee is bandied about quite a bit, armchair politics and clickbait news articles often inciting the conversation. But do we really know what we're talking about? Or rather, who we're talking about?
Amin is a former refugee from Somalia. He is now an American citizen with a beautiful family and is on his way to realizing his dreams as a CRNA, but the road to get here wasn't easy.
Amin was motivated to succeed through a promise that education would give him the life he wanted. And though he's faced his fair share of adversity, Amin has continued to chase his dreams through hard work, dedication, and an unwavering desire for more.
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Theresa and her husband, Ibrahim, run a lovely guesthouse in the heart of Kitale, Kenya called Karibuni Lodge. After growing up in the U.K. and finding herself in the monotony of the corporate world, Theresa knew she wanted something different for her life. Building a life in Kenya hasn't always been easy, but it's where their lives, their business, and their children are. Kenya is home.
Visit Karibuni Lodge
Child Rescue Kenya
Neema
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In the blink of an eye, everything can change. That's what happened when Sue found herself facing a corporate giant as she fought for justice for the sexual assault that was perpetrated against her.
Since then, Sue is on a mission to end sexual exploitation through her organization, Walk Her Home. A nonprofit created to educate about human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation, fundraise for change-makers, and lobby for policy that will help victims and survivors.
For more information you can email Sue at singram@walkherhome.org
or visit the Walk Her Home Website
Buzzfeed Expose
National Center on Sexual Exploitation
National Trafficking Sheltered Alliance
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Mike's childhood wasn't picturesque by any means, but he worked to create success for himself. He was on top of the world when news of an illness brought him to his knees. In one fell swoop, everything changed.
What do you do when it feels like everything you've worked for means nothing? What do you do when you lose it all?
Mike has fought tirelessly to rebuild the life he thought he had lost. And through his efforts, he's created a community of people that have found hope, help, and understanding.
Visit Mike's Gym - Q Fitness
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Jackie is a trauma counselor for Neema, a skills-training facility for vulnerable young women in rural, western Kenya.
Jackie's job is difficult, but her heart is boundless and abundant.
Her passion for counseling and the healing that it brings is clear in the way she speaks and in the relationships she has built.
Neema's staff of trauma counselors, social workers, teachers, and caregivers continually pour their hearts, energy, and resources into restoration.
Learn more about Neema
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We all know that refugees come to the United States. But do you know what happens after they arrive?
Laura is an American working in refugee resettlement, a job that has both lit a passion and compassion deep within her. This wasn't the career she set out to do, but it's now where she's thriving.
There are so many opportunities for U.S. citizens to welcome refugees to the United States; to help them begin to build a home, and to break barriers that are forged by misinformation and ignorance.
Check out one of these organizations for more information (all U.S. based):
Alight
International Rescue Committee
Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Service
National Immigration Forum
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Send us an email at GetTheHX@gmail.com
Joe's story, like many of ours, spans generations. A dedicated father, husband, brother, son and friend, Joe is committed to breaking the cyclical bonds of abuse seen over many lifetimes. Though he can identify with the lows, Joe's resilience and strength are what make him who he is.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (US)
The Crisis Hotline (US)
Music by Zakhar Valaha
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Send us an email at GetTheHX@gmail.com
You are a product of who and where you came from. For better or worse, your story doesn't start with you. Join host, Jennifer Peterkin, as she shares part one of her story.
Music by Zakhar Valaha & Juan Sanchez
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Minister Tia is a Domestic Violence Survivor, Advocate, Author and Speaker. She tells her story, unflinchingly, in her memoir, Suffering in Silence.
A true champion for victims, Tia can be found every Friday evening at 7pm EST on LuvBay Afrobeat Music and Talk Radio where she discusses different aspects of Domestic Violence on her show, Suffering in Silence.
You can catch up on previous episodes of Suffering in Silence here.
You can email Tia at SufferingInSilenceDV@gmail.com
If you are in the United States and need help please visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Music by Zakhar Valaha
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Send us an email at GetTheHX@gmail.com
Join us for Part 2 of The Human Experience launch as host, Jennifer Peterkin, shares more of her story and what led her to this space.
If you are in the United States and need help please visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Music by Zakhar Valaha, Olexy & Juan Sanchez
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Visit The Human Experience website
Send us an email at GetTheHX@gmail.com
Introducing The Human Experience - a weekly podcast about how our lived experience shapes who we become. Launching January 31, 2023.
Stay tuned!
Music by Zakhar Valaha
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Visit The Human Experience website
Send us an email at GetTheHX@gmail.com
Introducing The Human Experience - a weekly podcast about how our lived experience shapes who we become. Launching January 31, 2023.
Stay tuned!
Music by Oleksii Kaplunskyi, LesFM