Real Talk with Tina and Ann: Recent Episodes
Ann Kagarise
Ann and Tina are two moms and friends who have, like many others, experienced great pain and also great joy throughout their lives. While they are far from experts in the mental health field, they have both separetely worked diligently and consistently to heal from their trauma, hurt and sometimes harsh realities that neither would have chosen for themselves. Ann and Tina will share life's journeys and discuss, discover and redefine the realities of what life brings and teaches. Through the ups and downs, Ann and Tina candidly talk about life's struggles and challenges with humor, transparency, compassion and love. Grab your favorite drink or snack and sit down with Ann and Tina as they dive into topics of trauma, pain, hope, therapy and anything in between. You are not alone. There is purpose in your pain and there is joy along the journey!
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Anxiety can make you feel like you’re the only one struggling while you’re surrounded by people. That isolation gets worse when mental health support is expensive, hard to schedule, or simply not available where you live. We wanted a conversation that’s honest about those barriers and also practical about what to do next, so we sat down with Tamar Blue, founder and CEO of Mental Happy, a HIPAA-compliant digital platform for expert-led virtual support groups.
Tamar shares how her own panic attacks, cultural stigma, and years of community work led her to build a safer alternative to “figure it out alone.” We talk about why support groups can be a powerful complement to therapy, especially for caregivers, parents, neurodivergent folks, and anyone who can’t easily get to in-person care. We also dig into what makes a support space actually feel safe: privacy protections, clear group descriptions, trigger warnings, transparency around pricing, and a low-noise approach that doesn’t mimic social media.
We go beyond access and into skills. Tamar explains self-activated care, preventative mental health practices, and how journaling, gratitude, and positive self-talk can change the inner narrative that keeps anxiety running the show. You’ll also hear simple daily habits and boundary strategies that help you stop absorbing other people’s urgency and come back to center.
If this resonates, share it with someone who needs a softer on-ramp to mental health support, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. After you listen, leave a review and tell us: what’s one small practice that helps you feel steady?
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Life can fracture in a single moment, and the crack line often becomes the date we measure everything against: before and after. We’re reflecting on a powerful conversation with Tim Smith, author of Fault Line Still Standing, whose own fault line began with a kidnapping at six years old. His story opens the door to a bigger question many of us carry: if we didn’t choose the trauma, how do we choose what happens next?
We talk about why the event isn’t the whole definition of a life, and why “surviving” and “healing” are not the same thing. Healing isn’t linear, it can still hurt years later, and it rarely comes with a neat ending. We also name the quieter battle that follows trauma: the toxic story it whispers about your worth. Instead of “you’re damaged,” we practice telling the fuller truth, that you made it, you adapted, you found tools, and you kept going. Along the way, we connect this to neurodivergence, autism, FASD, adoption, grief, and the way identity can be shaped by hardship without being owned by it.
Then we pivot to what purpose looks like on the other side of the fault line: writing, storytelling, and building something new. Ann shares a personal update on the memoir Loving Differently, the Living Differently brand and resources, and a children’s book centered on Wren, a bird who flies differently and discovers that different can be beautiful. If this conversation resonates, subscribe, share it with someone who’s rebuilding, and leave a review so more people can find it.
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A single morning can redraw the map of a child's entire life.
At six years old, Tim Smith woke up believing he was getting a day off from school. Instead, it became the day that changed everything. In this powerful conversation, Tim, author of Fault Line Still Standing, shares the moment he calls his "fault line" and what happens when the people who are supposed to protect you become the source of fear, silence, and survival.
Tim takes us through being separated from his father at just six years old, the confusion of adults making life-altering decisions without explanation, and the lasting effects of childhood trauma. We explore how those experiences can resurface years later as memory gaps, selective mutism, hypervigilance, and a constant search for safety and control. We also talk about the lifelines that can make all the difference, including creativity as a refuge and one safe adult, his grandmother Ruthie, whose unconditional love became an anchor in an otherwise uncertain world.
From there, we have an honest conversation about how shame and rejection shape identity, how unresolved trauma can lead us toward addiction or unhealthy relationships, and why healing is rarely a straight path. Tim shares what healing looks like for him today: finding peace in his body, creating a home that feels safe, and having the courage to say, "No more." He also reminds us that our past does not have to define our future. While we cannot choose what happened to us, we can choose what happens next.
If you care about trauma recovery, resilience, breaking generational cycles, and finding your voice after a painful childhood, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
If this episode speaks to you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need a little hope today.
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We break down how leaders can co-regulate or co-disregulate a team, and why tiny shifts in structure can radically change safety and performance for neurodivergent professionals. We also read a love letter that names the cost of masking and the strengths workplaces miss when they demand one “normal” way of thinking.
• co-regulation from managers through tone, posture, pacing and preparation
• agendas, shared topic lists and predictable openings as cognitive scaffolding
• reducing cognitive load to support executive function and better work output
• being concrete and explicit about deliverables to prevent rework and confusion
• making support feel fair by offering options to everyone, including breaks and video-off
• building psychological safety so people can advocate without shame or forced disclosure
• separating presentation from ability across schools, workplaces and other systems
• rethinking performance reviews to value different strengths and processing styles
• retaining neurodivergent talent through change planning, clarity and follow-up conversations
• reading and reflecting on the love letter: “Different doesn’t mean deficient”
You can find Jessica Lee at www.neurotalentworks.org and Melody Valenzuela at www.rapporteducation.org or at rapportconsulting.org. You can also reach Jessica on all social medias at neurotalentworks. You can email them at neurotalentworks.org.
You can reach Ann or Tina at Real Talk with Tina and Ann and email them at podcastrealtalktinaann@gmail.com.
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In this episode, Ann interviews Jessica Lee from Neuro Talent Works and Melody Valenzuela from Rapport Educational. Together, they challenge the idea that workplace success means fitting into old systems, then map out how to redesign hiring and team norms so neurodivergent people can do their best work. We get practical about interviews, executive functioning, cognitive load, and the small supports that reduce stress while improving performance for everyone.
• the origin story behind NeuroTalentWorks and the “who helps employers?” gap
• reframing neurodiversity as human variation rather than an in-or-out label
• three core shifts: education, less judgment, structural change
• common misconceptions in interviews such as eye contact and response time
• skills-based interviews that reveal real ability and build confidence
• what executive functioning looks like on the job, including stress and working memory
• cognitive load and how sensory and social demands quietly drain capacity
• simple practices that reduce uncertainty such as agendas and shared notes
• the “energy cost audit” for identifying high-drain moments and supports
• universal design and team norms that make accommodations feel fair
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Have you ever walked into a room and felt yourself switch on a “socially acceptable” version of you before you even said hello? We’re naming that experience for what it is: masking, the practiced art of blending in to stay safe. We talk about how masking shows up for neurodivergent adults (including autism, sensory needs, and rehearsed social cues), and why it also shows up after divorce, addiction, grief, abuse, and other trauma where being real didn’t feel like an option.
We go deeper than definitions and get honest about the roots. When you grow up around secrets, fear, and silence, pretending can become a life skill. You learn to keep going no matter what happens, to protect the story, to avoid standing out. But what protects you early can drain you later. We unpack the real cost: shutdowns, emotional burnout, feeling lifeless, and the unsettling moment when you can’t tell where the mask ends and you begin.
We also share what starts to loosen the mask, especially the kind of permission our kids can give us when they want presence instead of perfection. Unmasking isn’t one big “healed” moment. It’s one decision at a time: the first honest conversation, the first boundary, the first time you say “I need help,” the first time you let someone see the mess. If you’ve been wondering whether you’re already enough, this is your reminder that your voice isn’t a reward. It’s yours.
If this hits close to home, listen now, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation. What’s one small mask you’re ready to take off this week?
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What if the reason you struggle to use your voice has very little to do with speaking—and everything to do with what you've lived through?
After the unimaginable suffering of World War I, one man's search to heal his own trauma became the foundation for a movement that has helped generations of people rediscover their authentic voices. His work was passed from teacher to teacher until it eventually reached jazz and gospel singer Barbara McAfee, who now helps others uncover the parts of themselves that fear, trauma, shame, perfectionism, and even neurodivergence have kept hidden.
In this fascinating conversation, Barbara shares how she once believed her voice simply stopped at a certain note on the piano until she discovered the vocal methods handed down through generations. What she found wasn't just a larger vocal range—it was a deeper connection to her authentic voice and to herself.
Barbara and Ann also share their own vocal autobiographies, exploring how trauma, expectations, and life experiences shaped the voices they carried for years. Together, they discuss why our voices often reflect experiences we've never fully processed and how healing isn't just emotional—it can be heard.
You'll also discover Barbara's Five Elements of Vocal Intelligence—Earth, Fire, Water, Metal, and Air—and how each one shapes the way we lead, connect, comfort, inspire, and express ourselves. Find out why Ann has such a strong reaction to the Air voice and what each element can teach us about becoming a more authentic communicator.
Barbara, author of Vocal Intelligence: Leading with Vitality, Presence, and Impact, explains why finding your voice has very little to do with speaking louder and everything to do with becoming more fully yourself. Together, they explore why saying the "right" words isn't enough when your nervous system is telling a different story, why tone of voice can become a powerful "decoder ring" for understanding others, and why our most authentic voice may already be inside us, simply waiting to be heard.
If you've ever struggled to speak up, felt like your voice didn't matter, or wondered why communicating feels harder than it seems for everyone else, this conversation is for you.
🎙️ Listen now, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that their voice matters—exactly as it is.
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Your voice is more than the words that come out of your mouth. It tells the story of what you learned was safe, what you learned would be punished, and what you believed would finally make you seen. Sometimes "finding your voice" isn't about becoming more confident. It's about healing the parts of yourself that learned it was safer to stay silent.
In this deeply personal episode, Ann reflects on her conversation with voice expert Barbara McAfee and the powerful idea of creating a "vocal autobiography" looking back at the experiences that shaped not only how we speak, but why we speak the way we do. She explores how trauma, shame, secrecy, and fear can live in our voices through held breath, tight throats, quiet words, or silence, and how healing often begins by uncovering the voice that has been there all along.
Ann also shares her own journey of growing up autistic, learning to communicate in a world that often misunderstood her, and discovering that maybe the problem was never her voice—it was that the world wasn't always listening in her language. This preamble to Barbara's episode gives insight and invites us to consider a powerful question: Which voice gets the microphone in your life? The inner critic that says you're not enough, or the quieter, truer voice beneath the fear?
Whether your voice is expressed through words, writing, art, music, boundaries, or simply asking for help, this episode is an invitation to stop hiding the parts of yourself that have been waiting to be heard. Because healing isn't about becoming someone new. It's about remembering who you've been all along.
If you've ever felt misunderstood, silenced, or afraid to take up space, this conversation is for you. Listen now, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that their voice matters.
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Erin Simpson on Trauma-Informed Education, Mental Health, Autism, ADHD, and Helping Every Child Thrive
A child melts down in class and the adult response is almost automatic: calm down, make a better choice, try harder. We want better outcomes, but those words often land on a nervous system that’s already in fight, flight, or freeze. Today we’re joined by Erin Simpson, principal of Grizzly Academy in the Wadsworth City School District in Ohio, to talk about what changes when a school stops forcing kids to fit the system and starts building the system around the child.
Erin shares the real story behind Grizzly Academy, a relationship-based, trauma-informed public school program created for students who struggle in traditional settings. We dig into what the day actually looks like: a calmer start with dedicated transportation, fewer transitions, consistent routines, multi-age groupings, small class sizes, and intentional staffing that keeps learning going even when a student needs support. We also talk academics, including flexible skill-based grouping and Orton-Gillingham literacy instruction, plus what it takes to help older students stay on track for graduation.
The conversation goes deeper into student mental health and the gaps families face when they need resources fast. Erin breaks down co-regulation and the Three Rs framework: regulate, relate, reason, along with why behavior is communication and how tools like functional behavior assessment can replace guesswork with clarity. We also name the human side of the work, including staff burnout, triggers, and the power of a team that checks in and taps out when needed.
If you care about supporting kids with anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, and big emotions, this one is for you. Subscribe, share with a parent or educator, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.
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A single quote sparks a hard truth: the longer we hold on to pain, the heavier it becomes. We talk through emotional weight, how survival and masking become habits, and why healing starts when we decide some things no longer belong on our shoulders.
• the quote that frames the whole message: holding on makes things heavier
• emotional weight we carry: shame, fear, resentment, disappointment, pressure to perform
• how trauma and grief become “normal” when we adapt for years
• what writing Loving Differently reveals about carrying responsibilities, secrets, and shame
• living with diagnoses like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, fetal alcohol and the cost of masking
• choosing to stop adapting to survive and start living
• lessons from my children: needs are not weakness, vulnerability can be safe, love can look different
• perfectionism as an extra burden that blocks real connection
• why we cling to anger, guilt, and shame and what we fear letting go means
• letting go without erasing the past and carrying pain in a healthier way
If today's episode spoke to you, I hope that you'll share it with someone who may be caring more than they realize.
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A family gets 48 hours to leave Cuba and suddenly everything becomes a decision made under fear. We sit down with author and journalist Anna Hebra Flaster for Part 2 of her story, and what unfolds is equal parts heartbreaking and darkly funny, from translating “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” to realizing how quickly a new country can turn “difference” into a test you have to pass.
We talk about the powerhouse women who carried the family forward, including the unforgettable moment Anna’s aunt smuggles her educational credentials out of Cuba so she can rebuild a career in the United States. We also dig into the loud, loving chaos of a home where politics divide people and still don’t break the bond. Along the way, Anna gives us a real portrait of her father, a tough, hardworking man shaped by scarcity, racism, and an honor code that doesn’t always translate to American life, yet still full of tenderness and devotion.
The conversation doesn’t stop at survival. We go into identity and shame, the sting of being reminded you’re “not from here,” and what it takes to reclaim pride in your language and culture. Anna also opens up about motherhood, postpartum depression, and the moment a psychiatrist names what she couldn’t: losing your home, world, and voice overnight is trauma, and it can echo decades later. We close by looking at Cuba today, ongoing repression, and why migration stories deserve more humanity than politics.
If this moved you, subscribe, share it with someone who cares about immigration and freedom, and leave a review so more listeners find these stories. What part of Anna’s journey hit you the hardest?
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What if the very things we've been taught to hide are actually our greatest strengths?
For so long, neurodivergence has been viewed through the lens of deficits, delays, and difficulties. But what if we looked at it differently? What if, beside every struggle, there was also a gift?
In this solo episode, Ann explores the beauty, complexity, and strengths that often accompany neurodivergence. From autism and ADHD to FASD and learning differences, this conversation challenges the idea that being different means being less than.
Drawing from her own experiences as a neurodivergent woman, adoptee, and mother of neurodivergent children, Ann shares how she learned that our differences are not something to overcome but something to understand.
This episode is about seeing beyond labels and behaviors and recognizing the incredible gifts that often live right beside the struggles. It's about shifting from asking, "What's wrong?" to asking, "What strengths are we overlooking?"
Because neurodivergence is not a flaw to fix. It is a different way of experiencing the world.
And sometimes, the very thing that makes life harder is also the thing that makes life more beautiful.
🎙️ Join us as we celebrate the art of neurodivergence and discover why our differences may be our greatest gifts.
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A single sound can carry a whole country inside it. When author Anna Hebra Flaster talks about hearing a motorcycle, she’s not being poetic, she’s describing a trauma stamp from childhood, the moment her family learned they had permission to leave Cuba and only hours to surrender their life and disappear. Ann sits down with Anna to unpack what exile really costs and what it demands from a family that refuses to fall apart.
We go back to post-revolutionary Cuba, when hope in a restored democracy collapses into censorship, informants, and fear. Anna explains how the right to leave was controlled by the government, how applying to depart could turn you into a public enemy, and why refugees often carry a different kind of lifelong vigilance than immigrants who move for opportunity. We also dig into language that gets weaponized today, immigrant vs refugee vs migrant, and why accurate words change how we understand human journeys.
Then the story comes forward into the United States, where freedom is visible in everyday life, protests, criticism of leaders, and choices that are not policed by ideology. But safety doesn’t erase what happened: Anna shares the childhood triggers, the terror of uniforms, the house-fire fear that fed insomnia, and the years it took to name PTSD without losing pride. We close with sharp cultural insight, family resilience, and a jaw-dropping detail about how one woman protected her education when even documents were treated like contraband.
Subscribe for Part Two, share this with someone who cares about freedom and refugee stories, and leave a review if the conversation moved you. What’s one word you use to define freedom, and why?
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What if the hard isn't a sign to quit?
What if the resistance, the setbacks, the waiting, and the closed doors are actually preparing you for the very thing you've been praying for?
After reading Adassa's memoir, Love Keeps Showing Up, and hearing her incredible story of perseverance, Ann couldn't stop thinking about one powerful truth: Don't let the hard stop what God started in you.
In this solo episode, Ann shares how important it is to not quit before the dream is reached. This short episode is inspired by Adassa's journey to becoming the voice of Dolores in Disney's Encanto, a dream she pursued for more than 20 years.
Together, we'll explore why waiting seasons often shape us more than success, why growth rarely feels comfortable, and why one of the greatest tragedies in life isn't failure. It's quitting before we get to the other side.
Ann also opens up about her own journey of writing a memoir through chaos, parenting children with autism and FASD, navigating adoption, advocating through systems that said "no," and learning that just because you don't know what to do doesn't mean you can't do it.
If you're feeling discouraged, exhausted, stuck, or wondering if your dream is still worth pursuing, this episode is for you.
Your breakthrough may be closer than you think.
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step.
Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the part that hit you hardest.
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Disney magic rarely shows you the part where the dream takes an unplanned detour. Our guest, Adassa, the Golden Globe, Oscar, and Grammy-winning artist who voiced Dolores in Disney’s Encanto, tells the full behind-the-scenes story: the 20-plus years of sacrifice, the moves and setbacks, and the mindset that kept her working like the promise was still real even when life said otherwise.
We talk about what it felt like to watch The Little Mermaid and suddenly see a future, how generational dreams shaped her own drive, and why representation matters when kids are trying to name their gifts. Then the Encanto moment hits with a twist: a YouTube video with roughly 300 views sparks Disney’s interest, her audition lands in spam, and one bold phone call keeps the opportunity alive. If you’ve ever wondered how casting, timing, and preparation really collide, you’ll love this part.
The heart of the conversation is far deeper than fame. Adassa opens up about battling paralysis during COVID, confronting the terrifying loss of her voice and mobility, and relearning a core truth: our value is not our output. We also get into faith and grace, protecting your principles when the industry offers money and visibility, “stepping into purpose” when the future feels like a blind box, and why being willing matters more than being perfect.
Love Keeps Showing Up and her album, Drink It Up are a must. Listen to her music while reading her memoir and be inspired.
Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s in a hard season, and leave a review to help more people find the show. What detour are you trying to make sense of right now?
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A Mother’s Day drive turns into a hit-and-run with a drunk driver, and we walk through the shock of trying to keep our kids calm while the help we expect never arrives. We connect that crash to a separate crisis where mental health funding collapses without warning, and we ask what families are supposed to do when broken systems hold the power.
• a rear-end collision that flips a normal day into survival mode
• the trauma of being dismissed by 911 and left waiting with injured kids
• documenting evidence and pushing a police department to take action
• the emotional whiplash of gratitude alongside anger and heartbreak
• a mental health safety issue triggered by sudden funding cuts
• special needs services and why families keep getting denied support
• insurance fights, medication delays, and the cost of healthcare barriers
• accountability, advocacy, and staying functional when you are depleted
• kindness from strangers and why compassion changes outcomes
Feel free to send us your stories
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Love that Stays: A Light That Remains.
Not walking through the hardest of times alone.
Listen to Tina share how her friend’s calling hours changed her.
Listen to Ann share how a stranger at a Neurodivergent Conference reached out to be an external brain. She did not want it, but by the end of the conference, she was thankful.
Help may never look how we expect it to.
Don’t walk through these hard times alone. Grab on and allow help to change and become what it needs to be in order for you to become.
We juggle so much in life, and so many times we are doing it alone.
We look fine. We say we are fine, but clearly we are not.
We can be strong and still need to be held at the same time.
Let’s look into this more on Real Talk with Tina and Ann.
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We talk honestly about why success can feel scarier than failure. We name the pattern of shrinking right before growth and remind ourselves that being seen is not selfish.
• struggling with visibility even while hosting a growing podcast
• feeling safest as the sidekick and behind-the-scenes supporter
• linking success with danger and learning that early association
• noticing how people pleasing, masking, and overfunctioning keep us small
• the difference between being needed and being seen
• learning to take up space without apologizing
• using awareness to break the pattern of self-sabotage
• choosing to turn pain into purpose through faith and grit
I would like to hear from you.
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We talk honestly about sextortion, how quickly it escalates, and why shame keeps kids silent when they need support the most. We share practical, step-by-step guidance for parents who want awareness without panic and a home where kids come to us first.
• defining sextortion and how fast the trap closes
• why boys ages 11 to 17 are heavily targeted
• how fake accounts and urgency pull kids in
• why shame spirals make kids hide and delete evidence
• what to do right away: don’t pay, stop contact, preserve everything, report
• how a calm response keeps kids talking and safer
• phrases to say before anything happens so kids tell the truth
• prevention without surveillance: open-ended questions, shared spaces, no secrets
• tech tools and school alerts as support, not a replacement for connection
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We celebrate a personal milestone as Ann finishes her memoir and turns the writing process into hard-won lessons about trauma, neurodivergence, and self-compassion. We unpack how survival skills can masquerade as personality, and how healing starts when we stop shaming the parts of us that kept us alive.
• finishing a 70,000-plus-word memoir and entering the submission process
• adapting versus surviving and why the difference matters
• hypervigilance, shutdown, over-apologizing, and making yourself smaller
• neurodivergence, masking, and functioning through exhaustion
• using alcohol to take the edge off social anxiety
• replacing “what’s wrong with me” with “what happened to me”
• respecting the younger self and honoring survival without staying trapped
• when childhood protection becomes adult anxiety, isolation, and burnout
• choosing honesty, rest, safety, and connection over perfection
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A spotless house. A raging mother. A silent father. And a child who learns to survive by shutting down her own heart. We’re joined by Lena Fine, author of Shattering the Mirror: One Woman’s Journey of Healing, for a raw conversation about childhood emotional abuse, shame, and the kind of “good family” image that can hide deep disconnection.
We talk about what it does to you when the person who should protect you is the one who hurts you, and what it’s like to grow up with constant criticism about your body, your worth, and your voice. Lena walks us through how overachieving can become armor, how an inner critic can keep a parent’s words alive for decades, and why adult relationships can replay old wounds even when you don’t see the pattern yet. If you’ve ever felt numb, alone in a crowded room, or drawn to love that feels familiar but not safe, you’ll hear yourself in this.
Lena also shares what actually helps: therapy that names reality, somatic healing, supportive friendships, and reclaiming joy through dance, singing, music, and art. We explore boundaries that protect your kids and break generational trauma, plus the surprising moment that cracked her world open: looking into her mother’s eyes near the end of her life and sensing something shift.
If this conversation hits home, subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more listeners find Real Talk With Tina And Ann.
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The internet didn’t arrive with fanfare for most people, but Michael Yang remembers the exact moment it became real: a friend opens the Mosaic browser, types a simple URL, and information appears from far away. That flash of possibility turns into a conviction that the World Wide Web will reshape how we live and shop, long before “online commerce” becomes everyday language.
We follow Michael from those early Silicon Valley days to the gritty middle chapters that rarely make the highlight reel: long nights, constant investor rejection, and the discipline of preparing for opportunities you cannot yet name. He shares how an immigrant instinct to compare prices becomes the blueprint for MySimon, how $25,000 in savings turns into a venture-backed rocket ship, and why a $700 million acquisition can still feel bittersweet when you get outvoted on the future you wanted.
Then the story widens into what success cannot buy: meaning, perspective, and peace. Michael talks about being pushed out of his own company, building again with Become.com, and eventually choosing a life with more freedom, motorcycle miles, and creative work. We also spend time on his friendship with Karl, the brotherhood forged on the road, and the grief that arrives when a friend dies doing what he loved. Threaded through it all is faith, including the line he closes his book with, and the idea that dreams require action long after the easy excuses run out.
If you’ve been weighing a risk, a reinvention, or a fresh start, listen and then tell us what step you’ve been avoiding. Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
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A life can look “successful” from the outside and still be held together by courage you never see. We sit down with Michael Yang, author of Coming Alive on the Ride, to trace the real roots of his drive: family history shaped by Japanese occupation, the Korean War, poverty, and a homeland still divided. He names the ache as “han” and explains how it echoes through generations, even when families do everything they can to protect their kids from the worst of it.
From there, the story turns sharply personal. Michael arrives in America at 14 with hardly any English, feels the isolation of being visibly different, and carries the sting of words that follow him for decades. He shares how taekwondo becomes a bridge to confidence and belonging, not as a fantasy of toughness but as a practical way to keep dignity when you’re new, small, and underestimated. We also talk about becoming a US citizen and what it means to love this country while staying rooted in Korean heritage.
Then the engine starts. A $200 motorcycle becomes the first taste of freedom, and years later, long-distance rides across North America and beyond bring “Shindage,” that full-body joy of being fully present. The road gives him space to think, to write, and to reconnect purpose with service. We even step into early Silicon Valley, including the mind-blowing moment he first sees the web through Mosaic and realizes the world is about to change.
If this conversation hits home, subscribe for more Real Talk, share it with a friend who needs a reset, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show. What part of your past is quietly shaping your next brave move?
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Your child throws the sandwich, melts down on the floor, and you can feel every set of eyes in the room. We know that moment, and we also know the shame spiral that comes right after it. Today we’re sitting with Dr. Kristen Cook, pediatrician, mom, and author of Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive, to replace that spiral with something more useful: a brain-based, trauma-informed way to understand child behavior and respond with clarity.
We talk about why one-size-fits-all parenting advice breaks down fast, especially around sleep and “perfect” expectations. Dr. Cook explains temperament, neurodevelopment, and executive function in plain language, and why kids often cannot access planning, impulse control, and emotional regulation when they’re stressed. We also dig into what happens when developmental age and chronological age do not match, including real-world impacts of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), ADHD, autism, anxiety, and overwhelm that gets mislabeled as defiance.
You’ll hear practical strategies for the hardest minutes of the day: how to check your own nervous system first, what fight flight freeze looks like in kids, and why the goal in a meltdown is regulation rather than reasoning. We also cover school-age transitions, the teen brain, identity formation, risk-taking, and the safety conversations we cannot avoid. Then we slow down for the tender parts: grief, divorce, and why children need developmentally appropriate truth and a place at the table.
We end with concrete ways to build family culture that lasts: better after-school questions, attachment and repair, planning for triggers like tired and overstimulated, and using family meetings, mission statements, and apologies as real leadership. Subscribe, share with a parent who needs steadier ground, and leave a review so more families can find these tools.
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A 12-year-old watching his grandfather die in the hallway doesn’t just lose a person, he loses direction. Our guest, professional boxer Ryizeemmion “Johnny” Ford, grew up in Ohio as one of eight kids raised by grandparents after parental absence, addiction, and incarceration shaped the home he didn’t choose. What followed was the kind of survival mode many people recognize: anger as armor, fights at school, bullying, and juvenile detention.
Then boxing showed up, and it wasn’t just about throwing punches. Johnny explains how the gym became his safe place, where the noise goes quiet and discipline takes over. We get real about what training actually looks like, early mornings, running, sparring, making weight, and the mental grind behind every win and loss. We also talk about the coach who became a father figure, the dangers of chasing validation, and why “discipline protects you from you.”
Fatherhood changes everything. Johnny shares the symbolic timing of welcoming his daughter and signing his pro contract the next day, plus how becoming a dad helped him stop fighting to prove people wrong and start fighting for purpose. We also sit with grief after losing his grandmother, the faith she instilled, and the hard truths about nursing home care and what families face when they can’t be there 24/7.
If you care about resilience, mental health, mentorship, and breaking generational cycles, you’ll take something from this conversation, whether you love boxing or have never watched a single round. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a turning point, and leave a review with the lesson that hit you hardest.
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A single trip back to Cuba turns into a confrontation with the one place Mario Cartaya never truly left: his own childhood. After 56 years away, he walks familiar streets, returns to his old school, and finds himself pulled toward a balcony where a long-buried scene suddenly plays in full color. What follows is as intimate as it is unsettling, a moment where he can almost see his eight-year-old self sitting beside him, and he finally understands what it means to reopen the vault of memory without being swallowed by it.
We talk about how the subconscious protects us, why certain places act like emotional keys, and what real closure looks like when the people you loved are gone. Mario shares the extraordinary chain of events that leads him through Havana’s Colón Cemetery, lost records, and a phone call that sounds impossible until it’s true, Fidel Castro’s son helps point him toward his family’s grave. Along the way we dig into grief rituals, identity repair, and the difference between forgiving and making peace with your destiny.
The conversation also widens into Cuban history, architecture, and Mario’s research on a forgotten century of US Cuba friendship using the Library of Congress. We end with the story of the pelican on the beach, a symbol that lands at the exact moment he needs permission to believe his father would be proud. If you care about immigrant identity, Cuban exile stories, healing the inner child, and the psychology of memory, you’ll want to hear this. Subscribe, share with someone who misses home, and leave a review telling us what part of your own story you’d go back to find.
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This week’s episode is one everyone needs to hear—a story of miracles, identity, and the kind of closure most people never expect to find.
In his book Journey Back into the Vault: In Search of My Faded Cuban Childhood Footprints, Mario Cartaya shares a life that began in Havana and was forever changed when he fled Cuba at just eight years old. He went on to build an extraordinary life in the United States as a celebrated architect, shaping communities across South Florida and earning national recognition, including a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. He even worked alongside leaders like John Kerry, helping bridge conversations between countries.
But decades later, something still called him back.
After 56 years, Mario returned to Cuba—and what happened next is almost impossible to believe. In a moment that feels nothing short of miraculous, Fidel Castro’s son personally led him to his family’s long-lost graves. There, Mario stood, prayed, and began reconnecting with the pieces of himself he thought were gone. Along the way, he unexpectedly met a 90-year-old relative simply by driving down the street, as if the past had been waiting for him all along.
This isn’t just a story about going back to a place.
It’s about meeting your younger self again.
About rediscovering memories.
About finding identity, belonging, and a sense of peace that no amount of success could replace.
And this is only Part 1.
Go to Mario Cartaya's website at Mario Cartaya – Journey Back Into The Vault
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Today we’re talking about something every parent wants for their kids but often struggles to build in the middle of real life—resilience.
We’re joined by clinical psychologist and author Kate Lund, whose work focuses on helping families move away from perfection and toward emotional strength that actually lasts. Her books Bounce: Help Your Child Build Resilience and Thrive in School, Sports, and Life and Step Away: The Keys to Resilient Parenting explore how small shifts in parenting can make a big difference in how kids learn to handle stress, setbacks, and challenges.
In this conversation, we talk about Dr. Lund’s own journey from childhood medical trauma to becoming a resilience expert, why “stepping back” as parents doesn’t mean disengaging, and how connection—not control—helps kids navigate big emotions.
We also dive into practical tools for regulating our nervous systems, supporting kids with learning differences, handling meltdowns, and building homes where effort is celebrated and mistakes are part of growing.
If you’ve ever wondered how to raise resilient kids without burning yourself out as a parent, this conversation is for you.
Dr. Kate Lund's website is Katelundspeaks.com
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What if dementia isn’t the end of connection, but an invitation to a different kind of presence? We sit down with author and advocate Marilyn Raichle, whose book Don’t Walk Away, A Care Partner’s Journey chronicles how her mother’s unexpected paintings—and later, simple rituals of song and touch—reframed Alzheimer’s from pure loss to a space where joy can still flicker. Tina opens up about caring for her mom with early onset Alzheimer’s, the heartbreak of losing language and mobility too soon, and the harsh reality of fighting insurers for basics like a wheelchair and a shower chair. Together we face the unglamorous math of care, the loneliness when friends don’t know how to help, and the tiny moments that make it all bearable.
Marilyn shares practical, dignifying ways to connect when memory shifts: lead with something your loved one enjoys, lower the pressure, and aim for five minutes of shared joy. We explore emotional memory versus cognitive memory, how music can bridge silence, and why a gentle introduction—Hi, it’s your daughter—can ease anxiety. Tina brings vivid, grounded strategies for caregiver survival: building a circle of support, moving your body to metabolize anger, using counseling or even short AI check-ins for relief, and letting kids help in small, safe ways that teach empathy.
We also look forward. As executive director of Maude’s Awards, Marilyn highlights innovations in Alzheimer’s care that center creativity, purpose, and care partner well-being. If you’re searching for Alzheimer’s caregiver tips, dementia communication tools, or resources that go beyond platitudes, you’ll find real-world steps and a renewed lens: people living with dementia remain fully human—worthy of patience, presence, and joy. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs solidarity today, and leave a review with the moment in your own journey that helped you feel connection again. Your story might be the spark another caregiver needs to hear.
Marilyn's website is – Maude's Awards
To get her book go to Don't Walk Away: A Care Partner's Journey: Raichle, Marilyn, Raichle, Jean: 9781969682407: Amazon.com: Books
Visit Real Talk with Tina and Ann to get all of their episodes.
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What do you say when a five-year-old whispers, “Can someone take the disease out of grandma?” That tender question anchors a conversation about late-stage Alzheimer’s, new diagnoses for our kids, and the gritty, everyday work of loving people where they are when answers won’t come. We don’t offer platitudes. We tell the truth about layered grief, the soul-tired fatigue of caregiving, and the flickers of connection that still break through — a hand that shakes less when held, a look that says “I know you” for one bright second.
We also open the door to our parenting lives. Diagnosis day hits like an aftershock even when you see it coming. We share how we’re supporting our kids across FASD, autism, ADHD, dysgraphia, and developmental coordination disorder: using speech-to-text to unlock ideas trapped by slow processing, dialing down classroom noise with headphones, matching school environments to nervous systems, and celebrating practical strengths like organization and hands-on work. Inclusion matters, but fit matters more; dignity starts with building the world around the child, not forcing the child to fit the world.
Along the way, we wrestle with advocacy fatigue, broken systems, and the courage it takes to draw hard boundaries. We talk about venting versus processing and the reframes that calm the nervous system: we can’t cure what hurts, but we can honor dignity, hold history, and keep showing up. Small tools help — AI scripts for calmer parenting moments, an ADHD-friendly cleaning checklist, even a vibration plate that shakes anxiety loose. And because the body keeps score, we share how cleaning up our food reduced inflammation and lifted the fog, proving that better inputs can make hard days a little lighter.
Messy is where connection lives. If you’re navigating Alzheimer’s, special needs parenting, or the invisible labor no one sees, you’re not alone here. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with one small tool or reframe that’s helping you keep going — we’d love to hear what’s working for you.
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We dig into the real-life supports that help neurodivergent brains thrive, from the hard science of FASD to daily tools for executive function, transitions, sensory needs, and affect regulation. RJ Formanek and Ann Kagarise share candid stories, and swap strategies that trade shame for structure and self-forgiveness.
• neuroanatomy changes shaping behavior and perception
• amygdala overdrive, safety cues and early supports
• executive function limits and practical scaffolds
• time blindness, chunking and accountability buddies
• transitions as processing needs, not defiance
• cause and effect gaps and replacing why with how
• adaptive skills, dismaturity and external brains
• affect regulation, anxiety and non-med supports
• sensory profiles, sleep, texture and travel hacks
• motor planning, handwriting and kind repetition
• self-advocacy at work and reasonable accommodations
• self-forgiveness as the base for growth
Please share it. Send it to a teacher or a therapist or foster or adoptive parent or caregiver, someone who needs to understand what is really going on beneath the surface. Go to Flying with Broken Wings and Red Shoes Rock on Facebook.
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Ever watch someone recite the rules and still miss the first step? We dive into that gap with FASD advocate RJ Formanek to reveal what’s actually happening under the surface —and why replacing blame with understanding can change a life. We’re talking brain wiring, not character flaws; symptoms, not “bad behavior.” Through raw stories and clear examples, we map how memory, language, and sensory processing collide in real time and why so many kids and adults feel mislabeled, misunderstood, and exhausted by systems built for different brains.
RJ shares his late diagnosis at 47 and the identity whiplash that followed, from internalizing “I’m bad” to discovering empathy, community, and purpose. Together, we unpack dysmaturity—the mismatch between age and functional skills across executive function, social understanding, daily living, and emotions. You’ll hear how someone can speak like a college grad but process like a seventh grader, and how that mismatch derails classrooms, workplaces, and families when expectations don’t match reality.
We move from theory to tools: how to externalize memory with visuals and checklists, use speech-to-text to bypass motor barriers, shorten instructions, and build movement and breaks into the day. We explore expressive versus receptive language gaps, why abstract idioms tank comprehension, and how to pace and simplify without condescension. We also get honest about sensory overload—crowded rooms, forced eye contact, bright lights—and how small environmental shifts can prevent meltdowns and preserve dignity.
The big takeaway: connection is protective. Consistency, curiosity, and equity open doors that punishment slams shut. If you’re a parent, teacher, clinician, or someone who has always felt “different,” this conversation offers a compassionate roadmap for support that actually works—and a new way to see behavior as communication from a differently wired brain.
If this resonates, follow the show, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest reframe so others can find this conversation.
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The room changes when a true maestro enters—yet the most revealing stories often happen offstage. We sit down with Nancy Shear to explore the hidden lives behind classical music’s brightest names and the personal courage it takes to step through doors that weren’t built for you. From a conductor who needed worship more than love to a cellist whose wild openness defied a regime, this is a lived portrait of power, devotion, and the craft most people never see.
Nancy takes us inside a world of stage doors, library stacks, and late-night score study where color, balance, and bowings decide the fate of a performance. She speaks candidly about navigating inequity in the 60s, the “good girl” codes that marked the era, and the boundary crossings that come with proximity to influence. We trace the contrasts between Stokowski’s controlled, ageless aura and Rostropovich’s expansive, risk-soaked playing, then follow her to Cold War Moscow on a mission of friendship that became a lesson in fearlessness and human connection. Along the way, she reveals the origin of her book’s title, the thrill of shaking a hand that once shook Brahms’s, and the ritual of leaving soil from Beethoven and Mahler at a mentor’s grave.
This conversation is as tactile as it is philosophical: the scissors pressed into her palm, the hushed terror of a dressing room standoff, the way recordings fuse with memory until you can’t tell vibration from recollection. We talk about archives, firings, and where the music lives after the music stops. Most of all, we talk about belonging—how to claim it without permission, how to practice “good trouble,” and how persistence becomes destiny. If you’ve ever loved a sound enough to rebuild your life around it, this one is for you.
If the story resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves music and history, and leave a review so more listeners can find conversations like this. Your notes help keep these doors open.
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Today on Real Talk with Tina and Ann we are talking about neurodivergence and share a raw, practical look at “diagnosis day,” advocacy, and the tools that actually help our kids thrive. Nothing about our kids changed with labels; only our map did, and that map guides support with less shame and more clarity.
• early signs, and the long road to evaluation
• diagnosis day emotions of relief and grief
• processing speed, executive function, shutdowns, and transitions
• written expression disorder, dysgraphia, and speech-to-text wins
• homeschooling choices, hands-on learning, and fewer words
• school trust breaks, IEP rights, and practical advocacy
• services, therapies, and redefining success on a personal timeline
• balancing hope and fear while carrying the caregiver load
Thank you so much for listening and being a part of this show
autism, #fetalalcohol, #adhd, #DiGeorgeSyndrome, #neurodivergence,
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A teenage girl finds her way through the stage door and into the inner life of a great orchestra, learning how courage, craft and attention can open rooms that seem shut. Nancy Shear reflects on mentors, trauma, Stokowski’s charisma and the quiet work that shapes sound.
• sneaking into the Academy of Music and earning trust
• learning the orchestra library and serving an apprenticeship
• confidence without permission and Eleanor Roosevelt’s influence
• caregiving at home, trauma, and independence
• music as refuge across classical, pop and Broadway
• first encounters with Stokowski’s charisma and control
• conducting with the eyes and the mystery of communication
• sensory life, hearing a sunrise, painting on silence
• gender dynamics, protection, boundaries and respect
• choosing proximity without losing independence
Nancy shear Contact information: By Nancy Shear
Support the show. Reach out and be a part! Belonging Begins Before Permission: Nancy Schear’s Story Inside …
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What if you’re not behind at all—you’re right on time for a life that finally feels like yours? We dive into nonlinear living and redefine progress as capacity, not speed. Instead of chasing milestones and highlight reels, we talk about the quiet work that actually changes us: noticing overwhelm sooner, asking for help before the breaking point, and choosing rest without guilt.
Together we unpack how grief, trauma, neurodivergence, and caregiving ignore schedules and why that’s not a failure, it’s honesty. We share real stories—from moving the family’s music and gaming spaces to be closer, to finding laughter in a difficult caregiving season—that show how small, ordinary moments become anchors. You’ll hear why comparison erases crucial context, how “late blooming” is growth that waited for safety, and why some friendships can’t travel with you through certain seasons. We also get practical about boundaries, saying no to misaligned opportunities, and protecting the peace that lets deeper healing take root.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to perform your progress or explain your timeline, this conversation offers permission and a path back to yourself. There’s no finish line on becoming; there’s only honest attention to what your body and life can hold today. Invisible growth won’t trend, but it transforms: trusting your inner voice, releasing shame, staying present when escape would be easier. Listen, breathe, and let your pace be your own. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs permission to slow down, and leave a review to help others find this conversation.
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We sit with creator Deborah Weed to explore how love, loss, and art can coexist, and why self-worth must be defined from within. Her stories of hospice dignity, cross-country wandering, and the evolution of Paisley the Musical point to a courageous path back to voice and purpose.
• holding grief and joy in the same body
• caregiving as dignity and soul polishing
• the year of firsts and self-permission to feel
• self-worth versus self-esteem and why it matters
• fear as information, not a prophecy
• Paisley the porcupine and the cost of self-erasure
• reclaiming power when only one quill remains
• parenting, special needs, and a different kind of proud
• real connection beyond social media
“Thank you for listening and watching as we're uh we're on YouTube and a bunch of radio stations and TV stations out there too. So uh thank you for being a part of Real Talk with Tina and Ann. And as always, there is purpose in the pain and there is hope in the journey, and we will see you next time.”
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Tina and Ann explore gratitude that tells the truth in crisis: not a list, but a lifeline beside cancer, caregiving, and long grief. Kara Lockwood’s story and Robert Emmons’ research anchor practical ways to find small joys that help us keep showing up.
• Cara Lockwood’s remission story and irreverent wisdom
• Robert Emmons’ research on gratitude and resilience
• Fake gratitude versus honest, wound-aware gratitude
• Tiny joys during treatments, caregiving and daily stress
• Holidays, nostalgia and shifting traditions after loss
• Building a psychological immune system with habits
• Boundaries, clarity and stepping away from toxicity
• Practical toolkit: one-line journal, gratitude texts, asking for help
• Agency and taking back ownership during hard seasons
• Grounding practice and closing words for weary hearts
You can reach Cara and her books at Tanamachi: Rom-Com Author & Your Next Great Read!
Robert Emmerson's website and books: Gratitude Works – Robert Emmons, Ph.D., Director
If our episode helped you, please share it with someone who might be in a hard season
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Fear is not the enemy, until it starts running the show. In this episode, we sit down with USA Today bestselling author Cara Lockwood (aka Cara Tanamachi) to discuss her book, There Is No Good Book for This But I Wrote One Anyway: An Irreverent and Brutally Honest Guide to Crushing Breast Cancer, a refreshingly honest and laugh-out-loud take on navigating cancer.
A mom of five in a blended family and a survivor of stage 1 HER2+ invasive breast cancer, to unpack how medicine, humor, and unapologetic self-advocacy helped her get through sixteen months of treatment.
Cara Lockwood brings the same sharp wit and tender honesty from her book into this conversation as we talk double mastectomy decisions, reconstruction realities, naming the fear, picking out new boobs with her husband, and why laughter can steady your hands without ever replacing chemo.
This is not a story about pretending cancer is funny. It is about refusing to let fear have the final word. Cara shares what it looks like to sit with terror, tell the truth about your body, advocate fiercely in exam rooms, and still find moments of levity that make the unbearable survivable.
We talk about the emotional whiplash of diagnosis, the pressure to “stay positive,” the exhaustion of being brave, and the power of saying what you actually feel instead of what makes other people comfortable. This conversation is for anyone walking through cancer, caregiving, chronic illness, or any season where survival feels heavy and laughter feels risky but necessary.
If you have ever needed permission to laugh through tears, to ask better questions, to trust your instincts, or to take up space in your own healing, this episode will meet you right where you are.
Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more listeners find honest conversations like this. What question about cancer, fear, or healing do you want us to tackle next?
If you are a survivor or knows someone who is or if you just know someone who is going through a very difficult time, this episode will lighten your load and help you to find a smile.
You can reach Cara and her books at Tanamachi: Rom-Com Author & Your Next Great Read!
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We trace a life rebuilt through acceptance, humor, and purpose, from paralysis and autism advocacy to grief, faith, and the daily practice of choosing better. The path moves from why to how, from pity to power, and from isolation to community through Pathfinders for Autism.
• tracking tiny gains with a “better than yesterday” list
• Madison’s autism story and early ABA access
• founding Pathfinders for Autism and scaling resources
• parallel paths planning and an acceptance turning point
• music, wheelchair dancing, and family humor as fuel
• accessibility barriers and choosing agency over pity
• faith, the “black chair,” and honest anger with God
• reframing grief as “adventures with uncertain outcomes”
• blended family grace and looking for people’s sparkle
• unresolved anger, taking out the pin, moving forward
• living fully with unanswered questions and daily effort
Visit PathfindersforAutism.org to search resources by age and need
Books available at BeckyGalli.com and major booksellers
Subscribe to Thoughtful Thursdays on BeckyGalli.com
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Some stories don’t fit inside neat arcs. Rebecca Galli’s life holds a brother gone at 17, a son who passed at 15, two children with special needs, and sudden paralysis nine days after divorce. What unfolds is not a list of tragedies but a blueprint for living when certainty disappears: short morning rituals that steady the mind, phrases that reframe pain, and a practice of choosing the next right step even when the path splits.
We dig into parallel paths, a therapist’s tool that changed everything. Instead of waiting for clarity, Rebecca plans two futures at once—the hope path and the reality path—so she keeps moving whether life opens or closes. That motion shows up everywhere: in how she shifted from why to how after hard news, in how she built a support boat that changed over time, and in how she tracks the power of better by noticing one small improvement each day. Her father’s wisdom—let your love be larger, you will always walk with a limp, but you will walk—becomes a way to honor wounds without being defined by them.
Rebecca also turns personal need into public good. A yellow flyer about ABA in Madison’s backpack leads to Pathfinders for Autism, a resource that now serves tens of thousands with training, sensory-friendly events, and a searchable database for families. Acceptance doesn’t mean shrinking your life; it can free you to build a new one. When therapy no longer promised walking, she made a “big toe moment” decision to stop, then poured that time into candlelit dinners, playlists, and presence with her kids. Humor keeps showing up too—snow angels in a wheelchair, van mishaps ending in tears of laughter—proof that joy can coexist with grief.
If you’re navigating caregiver burnout, special needs parenting, grief, or abrupt change, you’ll leave with practical tools: start mornings with intention, plan in parallel, assess your capacity, curate your crew, and let love be larger than the storm. Subscribe, share this conversation with someone who needs it, and tell us the line you’ll carry into tomorrow.
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We follow a wrong turn that became a mission and explore how dignity-based service transforms both givers and receivers. Gil shows how housing, education, and reciprocity can turn charity into equity, and why true joy is found when we serve.
• enlightened self-interest and why service elevates the giver
• rent-to-own housing tied to education and community service
• girls’ scholarships and mentorship reducing dropout and pregnancy
• reciprocity models that replace pity with dignity
• volunteers becoming guardian warriors and bridge builders
• policy ideas beyond walls, from vetted work programs to pathways
• interdependence, brain science of giving, and a new border symbol
• practical ways to sponsor, volunteer, and support safely
If this episode moved you, please share it. Support Rancho Fleas if you are able. And keep asking yourself the question: what can I do from where I stand to make sure fewer lives are treated as if they matter less?
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We bring the border into focus as a lived place, not a line, and confront how wealth disparity, US demand, and policy choices shape human lives. Gil Gillenwater shows why enlightened self interest, housing with dignity, and education beat walls and fear.
• wealth disparity between $18 an hour and $14 a day
• the border as community, not an abstract boundary
• enlightened self interest as a guiding principle
• youth loneliness, consumerism, and loss of purpose
• how US drugs, guns, and corporations fuel violence
• post 9 11 militarization and the Devil’s Highway
• predation and the cost of crossing
• from charity to reciprocity in service work
• Rancho Feliz housing plus education model
• measurable outcomes and middle class mobility
You do not want to miss it. Join us next week for part two with Gil Gillenwater.
Book: Hope on the Border
Rancho Feliz Charitable Organization
Real Talk with Tina and Ann
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A single weekend can reroute a life. When Deborah Meyerson, a tenured Stanford professor, suffered a stroke that stole her speech and altered her body, she and her husband, Steve Zuckerman, had to reimagine everything—career, communication, purpose, and the very shape of partnership. What began as an “it’ll pass” blip became a blueprint for growing forward, not going back.
We dig into what aphasia actually is—beyond speech—and how it reshapes identity, relationships, and daily life. Deb shares how writing the second edition of Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After Stroke became both research and therapy, drawing on dozens of survivor and care partner stories to reveal two truths: recovery can keep unfolding for years, and identity work is as essential as physical rehab. Steve opens up about care partnership without resentment, the constant calibration of boundaries, and why permission to grieve is inseparable from permission to grow.
You’ll also hear about Stroke Onward, their nonprofit pushing the healthcare system to support the emotional journey of recovery, and the Stroke Onward Community Circle (SOCC)—an interactive hub connecting survivors, families, and clinicians with free resources, conversation, and advocacy. We explore technology that extends agency and hope: an AI-generated voice that amplifies Deb’s talks, a neural sleeve that improves gait, and a newly approved vagus nerve stimulation implant that pairs with intensive therapy to accelerate learning and function. The thread through it all is practical wisdom: find the “why” beneath your old “what,” meet people where they are, and build a life you can love in tandem.
Subscribe, share this story with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help others find these conversations. Then visit strokeonward.org to explore resources, join the community, and keep the movement toward whole‑person recovery growing.
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The Tuesday before Thanksgiving can feel ordinary—until it isn’t. Fifty years ago, a dad kissed his child goodbye and didn’t come home, and that single day rewrote every holiday that followed. We open the door to that memory and walk through its rooms: the neighbor who showed up at swim practice, the crowded living room where silence said more than words, the TV playing Happy Days, the rain that made it seem like the sky understood. This is a story of grief stitched into a season built for gratitude—and a real, workable way to hold both.
We talk about how anniversaries tether themselves to the senses, why funeral planning beside a turkey feels so surreal, and how military honors can slip through cracks on a holiday weekend. From there, the lens widens: raising five kids, grandkids underfoot, three children on the spectrum, and careers in mental health and education that turned pain into purpose. The throughline is a simple practice—“even here.” Even here, with an empty chair or a thinner wallet. Even here, when the weather matches your heart. Even here, when the calendar drags you back to a day you never wanted to relive.
What emerges isn’t a neat bow but a true map: gratitude as a method, not a mood. We share small rituals for remembrance, the choice to let the good in without pushing pain out, and the stubborn hope that shows up when you name both. If your holiday table looks different this year—or if the number on the calendar echoes louder than you’d like—you’ll find language, company, and practical comfort in these pages of memory.
If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help others find us. Tell us: what small good are you letting in this week?
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A glossy holiday is easy to post, but the real story of Thanksgiving often lives in the places that ache. This year, our table looks different—empty chairs, fading memories, and traditions that no longer fit who we are now. Still, gratitude finds a seat beside grief.
We talk about the tenderness of a rare moment of clarity with a loved one whose memory is slipping, and the sting of anniversaries that return each November. Love doesn’t disappear; it changes shape. It becomes presence, comfort, breath.
We trace Thanksgiving back to its roots: gratitude amid survival. Through that lens, we practice a thanks that is honest and brave—naming what hurts and what holds us together. We share simple ways to stay grounded when life feels overwhelming: focus on the next step, protect small rituals, and notice the goodness that still rises.
Faith shows up as a steady hand when ours shake, and quiet phrases like “even here, I see good” become anchors. Nature’s rhythm reminds us that loss prunes but also deepens roots.
So we invite a truthful Thanksgiving: say what hurts, then say what remains. Teach our kids that courage is presence, not pretending.
If your heart is heavy, may gratitude gently hold you. If someone is missing, may their love warm the room. Press play for a reminder that even here, even now, we can still be grateful.
And we have a surprise at the end! Our kids talk about what Thanksgiving means to them!
From our families to yours--Happy Thanksgiving
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We dig into life with FASD beyond labels: how shame warps identity, how routines protect mornings, and why late-blooming brains change everything. RJ shares the red shoes origin, practical language for kids, and a hopeful path from rage to self‑acceptance.
• removing shame and naming “it’s not your fault”
• morning reboot, windows, slow processing
• routines for sensory load and homeschooling
• caretaking as kids and delayed meltdowns
• diagnosis as a doorway to forgiveness
• age‑appropriate truth telling without trauma dumping
• dismaturity and brain domains explained
• comorbidities and “it’s complicated” framing
• experiential learning and practical supports
• neuroplasticity, myelination, and late blooming
• authentic voice: writing like you talk
• mentoring over short‑term coaching
• starting advocacy locally and year‑round
• debunking cultural myths and stigma
• community, hope, and the power of red shoes
You know, hit the like button, subscribe, go to the website, and on our website, you know, you will find a lot of really amazing things because we believe that our differences aren’t deficits. They are the wings that help us fly
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We share real, lived experiences from someone navigating life with FASD: the diagnosis, the data, and the dignity that often get lost in the conversation. Together, we unpack the daily struggles and the deep relief that comes from hearing the words, “It’s not your fault.”
What follows is a powerful journey from shame to self-forgiveness, as we explore person-first support, resilience, and practical tools that empower families, educators, and communities to truly understand and uplift those living with FASD.
• global and national prevalence of FASD and underdiagnosis
• RJ’s childhood, system involvement, and late diagnosis
• shame, stigma, and the power of “it’s not your fault”
• behavior as symptom, not choice, in school settings
• person-first frameworks and lived-experience leadership
• memory, executive function, and “manual transmission” brains
• routines, morning ramp-up time, and no-homework advocacy
• how to explain FASD to children in age-appropriate steps
• dismaturity across brain domains and realistic expectations
• caregiver challenges, resilience, and community support
You won't want to miss it. Until then, remember understanding creates connection, and connection creates change.
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We share Sophia Lorenzi’s path from losing her father to suicide to investigating death row cases, tracing how grief, stigma, trauma, and systems shape lives. The heart of the talk: seeing people fully, not as problems to fix, and building care long before crisis.
• how invisible crisis can exist alongside visible treatment
• rising suicide rates despite reduced stigma and why access still lags
• 988 as vital crisis care and why prevention must start earlier
• community-based and peer models that move care upstream
• the four-hour window and limits of certainty in prevention
• death row investigations and the human roots of harm
• courts, prisons, and hospitals as systems misaligned with healing
• grief without blame and rejecting survivor shame
• boundaries, witnessing, and rituals that sustain healing
• writing as advocacy and the dignity of complex stories
To our listeners, if this conversation moved you, please share it. Someone you love might need to hear this today.
If you know somebody that is suicidal or you might be yourself, please call 988 or go to any local authority or anywhere that you can to get help.
You can find Sophia's work in Time, the Washington Post, and her Substack Surface Level, and many other publications. Follow her, read her words, and let them change how you see the world.
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Midlife isn’t a slow fade; it’s a volume knob. We sit down with Angela, the force behind Real Girls Guide and RGG55, to rewrite the script on aging and claim midlife as a comeback. From the lost folder that sparked her book to the candid truths she shares about hormones, identity, and self-trust, this conversation is a bright, unflinching look at how women can live on purpose and take up space.
We dig into radical self-possession, the everyday practice of saying “no” without an essay, trusting your own voice without apology.
Because at some point, you realize it’s not about being invited anymore, it’s about creating spaces that feel like home.
So, you build your own table. You fill it with people who get it. the ones who bring wisdom, laughter, truth, and light.
The ones who see you, not just your highlight reel.
And you start, even before you have a roadmap, because sometimes the most beautiful journeys begin before you know the way. Angela brings data and lived experience to the hormone conversation, connecting estrogen changes to mood, libido, and confidence, and showing how education powers better care and louder advocacy. We talk hot flashes and humor, because laughter disarms shame and opens doors. We trace the cultural shift making this moment possible: women 40, 50, 60+ with spending power, visibility, and the will to speak plainly about bodies, sex, ambition, and reinvention.
You’ll hear how identity pivots from “Who do I have to be?” to “Who do I want to be now?” We explore friendships that trade comparison for courage, boundaries that need no apology, and the grit it takes to begin again. Angela’s upcoming book—built from 120 women and 25 experts—acts as a companion, not a blueprint, reminding us we’re not alone and there’s always a path forward. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, “past your prime,” or stuck on the edge of a new chapter, consider this your nudge to start.
Join us, subscribe, and share this conversation with someone who needs a push to live louder. If it resonated, leave a review and tell us: what boundary will you defend this week?
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An Interview with Author of Property of the Revolution! This is part 2!
A Cuban family escapes with 48 hours’ notice and rebuilds a life defined by work, honor and love, seen through the eyes of a six-year-old who learns to turn pain into power. We trace culture, politics, and identity across borders, and why telling the truth preserves dignity.
• culture clash between performance and belonging
• abuela’s wisdom and loud, loving households
• tía’s hidden diploma and the right to keep education
• father’s honor, hard work and unexpected tenderness
• political rifts, CDR pressure and family fights
• racism, lost shifts and choosing dignity
• shame to pride in language, food and music
• citizenship, commitment and becoming American
• speaking up at college against stereotypes
• trauma resurfacing in motherhood and healing
• returning to the old house and reclaiming memory
• Cuba’s current crisis, exodus and silenced voices
Please get Ana's book, Property of the Revolution. It is a must-read. Visit anacubana.com — the audiobook is narrated by Ana.
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A motorcycle in the barrio. Forty‑eight hours to leave. A nearly six‑year‑old whose world narrows to the sound of an engine and the shape of fear—then widens again across an ocean. We welcome author Ana Hebra Flaster to explore her memoir, Property of the Revolution, and the intimate mechanics of exile: how a family becomes “gusano,” how permission to leave turns into a three‑year wait, and how love and duty hold when language and home are stripped away.
We follow Ana from post‑revolution Cuba to a New Hampshire mill town, where hunger, racism, and winter cold collide with simple, stubborn hope. She unpacks the difference between immigrants, migrants, and refugees—and why the words we choose can open doors or close minds. There’s the chilling classroom ice‑cream lesson that reveals how indoctrination works, and the everyday definition of freedom: the right to dissent without losing your future, the ability to live without ideology deciding your job, your school, or your healthcare. Ana’s mother becomes our north star—make yourself brave—standing up to mobs, protecting strangers, and refusing to adore any leader above principle.
We talk trauma without turning away: a child’s sleepless nights, the quiet tears of a grandmother who left her father behind, and the family story that kept them afloat—We won; we are not victims—until it was safe to name the wounds. There are vivid cultural insights, too: reading America through Rudolph the Red‑Nosed Reindeer (performance as currency), and Tía’s act of defiance—smuggling her doctorate out of Cuba sewn into a bra—because education earned should never be state property. Along the way, we challenge myths about Cuba’s past, listen for the throughline of dignity, and honor the resilience that keeps families together when history tries to break them apart.
If this conversation moved you, share it with someone who cares about freedom and family, subscribe for part two, and leave a review with the moment that stayed with you most. Your voice helps these stories travel.
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What if the love you learned was never love at all—but performance, peacekeeping, and fear dressed up as care? Ann sits down with Denise Bard to tell the truth about growing up inside conditional love, the survival roles that helped them get through, and the slow, stubborn work of building a love that heals instead of hurts. This is a tender, unsparing, and ultimately hopeful conversation about worthiness, boundaries, and the courage to stop disappearing.
We trace the childhood blueprints that formed our early ideas of public perfection masking private harm, attention mistaken for affection, and approval fused to identity. Denise shares how a shelter caseworker embodied unconditional love and rewired what was possible. Ann reflects on seeking safety in performance, hiding family trauma from partners, and the moment parenting shifted everything: presence over fear, repair over reactivity, and an actual “no matter what” for her kids. Together we explore how to break generational cycles, end contact with unsafe relatives, and create a home where truth doesn’t cost you belonging.
You’ll hear practical ways to rebuild self-worth affirmations that actually land, journaling that tracks progress, and boundaries that protect love rather than punish it. We talk about putting down burdens that were never ours, refusing to apologize for someone else’s harm, and letting “wanted” become part of your identity. If you’ve ever confused peace with people-pleasing or chemistry with chaos, this conversation offers language, tools, and a pledge to love differently: to be seen, to stay whole, and to choose connection without conditions.
If this resonates, tap follow, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help others find Real Talk with Tina and Anne. What’s one belief about love you’re ready to release?
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Randi Crawford, certified life coach and TEDx speaker, joins us to share her “Pickleball Parenting” philosophy. It is a fresh, practical approach to raising resilient kids who can face challenges with confidence and independence.
In this episode, Randi talks about the ways modern parenting often misses the mark and how small changes can make a big difference:
- Stop smoothing the path. Over-involvement robs children of the chance to build grit and quietly tells them, “I don’t believe you can handle this on your own.”
- Phones at night are a hard no. Randi explains that devices “let a thousand strangers into your child’s bedroom.”
- When parents step in to solve every conflict, kids learn to feel powerless instead of capable.
- The pandemic left lasting effects of isolation and anxiety, making it even harder for kids to develop social skills.
- Parenting out of fear prioritizes comfort over growth and weakens resilience.
- Create judgment-free zones where children can share their hardest truths without worry.
- Praise effort, not just results, so kids build real confidence.
- Teach kids the idea of a “mental bank account” where they recognize and celebrate their own wins.
- Healthy parent-child relationships are built on both boundaries and trust.
Randi’s approach is not about helicoptering and it is not about being hands-off either. It is about showing up in ways that help kids grow strong, confident, and capable.
Find out more about Randi at randicrawfordcoaching.com or follow her on Instagram and TikTok @RandiCrawfordCoaching. Her upcoming book will dive even deeper into these strategies for parents.
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What happens when everything you believe about your family turns out to be a lie? In this gripping conversation with novelist Leslie Rasmussen, we dive deep into her latest work, "When People Leave, Love Lies and Finding the Truth" – a story that will resonate with anyone who's ever questioned their family narrative.
Leslie, whose impressive career spans from writing for comedy legends like Roseanne Barr and Drew Carey to publishing award-winning novels, crafts a tale that's both heartbreaking and healing. Three sisters return to their childhood home following their mother's unexpected suicide only to discover that their entire lives were built on carefully constructed deceptions. As they unravel the truth, they're forced to confront how these hidden family secrets have unconsciously shaped every decision they've ever made.
Our conversation explores the profound ripple effects of family secrets – how they mold us even when we don't know they exist. We discuss the ways trauma manifests differently in each sister: through addiction, stagnant relationships, and abandoned dreams. Leslie beautifully articulates how our parents' patterns become our own, even when we're actively trying to be different, and how forgiveness becomes infinitely more complex when the person who hurt you is no longer alive to provide answers.
What makes this discussion particularly powerful is Leslie's compassionate portrayal of the mother character – a woman who lied not out of malice but from a place of fear and protection. Through this lens, we examine the impossible choices parents sometimes make and the heavy burden of carrying secrets for a lifetime.
Whether you've experienced family deception firsthand or simply appreciate stories that explore the complexity of human relationships, this episode offers profound insights into forgiveness, healing, and the courage it takes to break generational patterns. Listen now and join the conversation about how we can make peace with painful truths and find freedom in authenticity.
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Tina and Ann explore the complex relationship between joy and grief, examining how these seemingly opposite emotions often coexist and even strengthen each other. They share personal stories of experiencing both simultaneously and discuss strategies for allowing both emotions to breathe.
• Joy and grief create an emotional tug of war that varies in response – sometimes numbing, sometimes pushing, sometimes inspiring
• Past trauma can make it difficult to trust joy, creating a pattern of expecting something bad after experiencing happiness
• Grief can push someone into survival mode, making it harder to let joy in
• Holding onto grief can feel like the last connection to someone we've lost
• Allowing both joy and grief requires giving ourselves permission to feel everything
• Tina's son demonstrates remarkable resilience after a sports injury, showing character by focusing on supporting teammates
• Creating rituals to honor both emotions can help process grief while making space for joy
• Living with chronic grief doesn't mean excluding joy – it's a daily choice to let in both
Remember, there's purpose in the pain and hope in the journey. Joy and grief are not opposites but companions that reflect the full richness of life.
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Ron Souers joins us to explore how ADHD minds can transform perceived weaknesses into remarkable strengths through self-discovery, mindfulness, and acceptance. We examine the experience of navigating a neurotypical world with a neurodivergent brain and uncover practical strategies for harnessing ADHD's unique capabilities.
• ADHD is not a disorder to fix but a different way of processing that offers unique strengths
• Traditional workplace systems often fail neurodivergent individuals by forcing conformity rather than accommodating different thinking styles
• Masking ADHD symptoms requires double the energy, leading to burnout and mental health challenges
• Mindfulness-based strength practice helps identify and leverage your natural character strengths
• The connection between ADHD, depression and addiction stems from impulsivity and emotional dysregulation
• Movement breaks, journaling, grounding techniques and visual goal-setting provide practical ADHD management strategies
• Workplace accommodations like headphones and additional breaks are reasonable requests protected by law
• Self-acceptance and understanding the root causes of behaviors reduces shame and builds confidence
Visit youradhdguy.com to get a free e-copy of Ron's Self-Discovery Journal for Adults with ADHD or learn about his coaching program, the Connection Blueprint.
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Tamar Blue, founder and CEO of Mental Happy, shares how she transformed her personal struggles with anxiety into a groundbreaking digital platform for accessible mental health support. Her HIPAA-compliant service provides expert-led support groups where people of all backgrounds can find community healing without financial barriers or stigma.
• Turning personal pain into purpose by creating the mental health community she needed
• Breaking cultural barriers where mental health wasn't discussed or treated
• Building on her high school peer support program that received White House recognition
• Creating accessible support groups for life transitions beyond traditional therapy topics
• Addressing healthcare gaps for those with geographical, financial, or scheduling barriers
• Providing free mental health resources and tools that don't require constant technology use
• Prioritizing privacy with mobile-only chat features and no session recordings
• Reducing healthcare system burden by preventing mental health crises
• Changing negative self-talk through journaling and positive affirmations
• Sharing personal wellness practices including nature walks, hydration, and boundary-setting
Visit mentalhappy.com to join a support group, access free resources, or become a group leader in creating spaces for healing, community and hope.
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What happens when love continues beyond goodbye? Tony Stewart's journey with his wife Lynn reveals a profound truth many of us fear facing: grief's deepest waters can hold unexpected beauty.
Tony's memoir "Carrying the Tiger" chronicles their 30-year love story that evolved through creative pursuits, global adventures across India and Southeast Asia, and ultimately, Lynn's battle with cancer. The title—inspired by a Tai Chi movement where one lifts a tiger onto a distant hilltop to make it less threatening—perfectly captures their approach to life's most difficult challenges.
When Lynn received her diagnosis, Tony began documenting their experience on CaringBridge. What started as medical updates for friends transformed into reflections on mortality, connection, and finding light in darkness. These writings eventually became the framework for his memoir, but only after Tony had navigated the unpredictable terrain of grief that followed Lynn's passing.
Throughout our conversation, Tony's vulnerability shines as he shares revelations that challenge conventional wisdom about loss. "The first few months, I kept expecting steady progress upward," he admits. "What surprised me most was how nonlinear grief is—how it sneaks up just when you think you're getting better." This honesty offers comfort to anyone who's felt bewildered by grief's unpredictable nature.
Most powerfully, Tony describes the weeks he spent caring for Lynn during hospice as "the most beautiful of my life"—a perspective that transforms our understanding of caregiving and end-of-life experiences. Where many see only loss, Tony discovered profound connection, demonstrating that love doesn't diminish as physical abilities fade.
Now a certified grief educator, Tony shares wisdom that resonates whether you're grieving or supporting someone who is: "You can't heal what you don't feel." His story proves that embracing grief rather than avoiding it ultimately leads to healing, though not on society's timeline or terms.
For anyone navigating loss or seeking to understand its landscape, Tony's journey illuminates an essential truth: grief isn't where love ends—it's where love finds a new way to speak.
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Miss Betty Smith shares her incredible journey from childhood poverty to creating a state-of-the-art arts education center that transforms young lives in Canton, Ohio. At 84, she dances in parades, leads drumlines, and builds programs that give children alternatives to gang recruitment, serving as a living example that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact.
• Grew up "dirt poor" but rich in love, with a mother who taught her that "living is giving"
• Organized neighborhood activities and music programs from a young age, unknowingly preparing for her life's mission
• Moved to Chicago at 18, facing weight discrimination that inspired her commitment to healthy living
• Built recovery homes for women with children battling addiction in Chicago
• Managed programs with Catholic Charities serving over 1,100 people
• Established Multi-Development Services in Canton, creating homeless shelters and transitional housing
• Recently opened the Enrichment Arts Education Center, serving children from 77 different schools with free programming
• Partners with juvenile courts to provide alternative programming for youth with misdemeanors
• Believes firmly that "there's no such thing as a bad child" and that every young person can succeed with proper support
• Emphasizes both discipline and love in her approach to working with youth
Visit the Enrichment Arts Education Center at 901 Market North in Canton, Ohio to see how Betty and her team are changing lives through the arts.
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Sculptor Jon Hair’s life is a masterclass in perseverance and purpose. Abandoned by his mother and raised in poverty and an orphanage called The Home for the Friendless, Jon’s journey from hardship to hope is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode, he shares how he transformed pain into passion, starting a music career as a child and eventually pursuing his dream of becoming a sculptor at age 49. With over 170 public art pieces—including the prestigious Olympic Monument—John's story is proof that it's never too late to rise.
Whether you're chasing your dream, recovering from trauma, or wondering if your time has passed, this conversation will remind you:
It’s not about where you start. It’s about what you do with your 24 hours.
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Ann explores the power of manifesting through intention and action rather than perfectionism, inspired by Halle Berry's insight about focusing on what we want instead of what we don't want.
• Manifesting isn't about magic but about aligning thoughts, beliefs, and actions
• You don't have to be perfectly whole to manifest—you can begin from your messiest places
• Thought stopping techniques can redirect negative thinking patterns
• Your dream life doesn't need a perfect version of you—it needs a present version
• Clarify who you're becoming through vision and soul alignment
• Actions must match intentions—manifestation is movement, not just meditation
• Create boundaries to protect your dreams by saying no to what doesn't align
• Small steps have soul-sized impacts on reaching your goals
• It's never too late to manifest your dreams, regardless of age or past limitations
• Your past may explain you, but it doesn't define you
Take one alignment action today—speak one truth, write down one intention, or act on one goal. You're not just manifesting a life; you're remembering the one you were born to live.
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John Hair's journey from a one-room schoolhouse basement to becoming the official Olympic sculptor exemplifies resilience and determination against overwhelming odds. His inspiring story shows how talent combined with extraordinary persistence can overcome childhood trauma, family abandonment, and the skepticism of the art world establishment.
• Living with six siblings in a basement with only sheet dividers for rooms during early childhood
• Finding inspiration in World Book Encyclopedia, dreaming of becoming a great artist
• Experiencing orphanage life after his father had to work overseas and mother abandoned the family
• Playing drums professionally from age 14, including jamming with Jimi Hendrix in New York
• Working multiple jobs including cleaning toilets, driving trucks, and running an ad agency
• Beginning his sculpting career at age 49 after two decades as an art director
• Securing his first major commission by waiting five days to meet with a tribal chairman
• Creating over 150 public sculptures including monuments for the Olympics, universities, and historic figures
• Believing figurative art should uplift and inspire rather than follow trendy art world movements
• Continuing to work at nearly 75 years old, refusing to retire or slow down
Don't give up, no matter what the consequences are. Don't give in and have everybody tell you what you should be doing when you know what you should be doing. You just haven't found a way to do it yet.
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Ann and returning guest Denise Bard explore how family secrets shape our identity, relationships, and sense of self, inspired by the Mariska Hargitay documentary "My Mom, Jane." They share personal experiences with secrets kept from them that affected their core identities and discuss the trauma of carrying others' shame.
• According to research, 97% of families keep some type of secret, with those related to identity, trauma, or betrayal causing the most psychological damage
• Secrets create emotional isolation, especially for children who feel they're carrying family shame
• When someone tells you something didn't happen when you saw it with your own eyes, it creates a form of "crazy-making" that causes you to doubt your perception
• Finding out family secrets later in life can cause profound identity shifts, forcing you to re-evaluate who you thought you were
• Breaking the cycle of secrecy is possible by choosing transparency with your own children in age-appropriate ways
• Secrets can be inherited—not just events, but the silence, shame, and survival behaviors
• The healing process is valid however it unfolds, and sometimes telling the truth will break something that needed to break
Remember that there is purpose in our pain and hope in our journey, even when that journey includes uncovering difficult truths about our families and ourselves.
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What if a penny could change your life?
Deborah Weed, creator of The Luckiest Penny musical and founder of the Self-Worth Initiative, went from being bedridden and broken to becoming a fierce advocate for self-worth. After learning that a rare 1943 copper penny was worth over a million dollars, she had a powerful realization: even things we overlook hold tremendous value—and so do we.
In this inspiring episode, Deborah shares how she turned personal trauma into purpose through storytelling, including the creation of Paisley the Porcupine and the Quills Up movement. Her message is clear: self-worth isn’t given—it’s claimed.
We talk about the difference between self-esteem and self-worth, reclaiming our “quills,” and learning to stand tall in our truth. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough, this episode is your reminder that you are.
🎧 Visit selfworthinitiative.net to learn more and support this movement.
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What makes George's story so compelling isn't just his professional evolution but the profound personal transformations that accompanied it. After reaching nearly 400 pounds and receiving a stark health warning, he underwent gastric bypass surgery, losing 140 pounds and regaining control of his health. "I like living," he shares with disarming candor, "I hope I can do it for as long as I can."
The conversation delves into the healing power of nature, with George eloquently describing how water and forests provide sanctuary: "a chance to be at peace, a chance to collect my thoughts, in fact, a chance to not think at all, just to be." His reference to the Japanese practice of forest bathing reveals the science behind what he's always intuitively known—that just ten yards into the woods can immediately lower blood pressure and transform mental clarity.
Throughout his transitions from newsroom to riverbank, through health struggles and family challenges including his daughter's traumatic brain injury, George has maintained a philosophy borrowed from poet Rainer Maria Rilke: "Live the questions now, and perhaps you will gradually live along some distant day into the answer." His authentic approach to life, meeting people where they are without judgment, serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the only way forward is simply to flow with the current.
Have you considered how embracing rather than fighting life's unexpected turns might transform your own journey? Listen to discover how one man's willingness to pivot created a life where passion and profession beautifully converge.
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What happens when a neurodivergent specialist discovers she's been living with undiagnosed ADHD for over five decades? Dr. Jennifer Dall takes us through her extraordinary journey from confusion to clarity after receiving her ADHD diagnosis at age 53.
Despite her doctorate in educational psychology and 25 years as an educator, Dr. Dall's ADHD remained hidden beneath societal misconceptions and outdated diagnostic approaches that failed to recognize how ADHD manifests differently in women. She candidly reveals the emotional toll of being gaslit by healthcare providers who saw only her achievements while missing her internal struggles.
This conversation shatters stereotypes about what ADHD "should" look like, especially in accomplished women. Dr. Dall unpacks invisible symptoms that society misinterprets as character flaws—time blindness that makes you perpetually early or late, proprioception issues that have you constantly bumping into doorways, and rejection sensitivity that turns minor comments into deep wounds.
You'll discover practical, holistic approaches that work with your neurodivergent brain rather than fighting against it. From the Pomodoro technique and body doubling to three-day project sprints, Dr. Dall shares the strategies that helped her reclaim her life. She explores how grief and trauma compound ADHD challenges, drawing from her personal experience after losing her husband to suicide three years ago.
For anyone questioning whether they might have ADHD—particularly women who've been dismissed with depression or anxiety diagnoses—Dr. Dall offers validation and a roadmap forward. Whether pursuing formal diagnosis or embracing self-discovery, she emphasizes that understanding your unique brain wiring is the first step toward authentic living.
Connect with Dr. Jennifer Dall at ADHDholistically.com and grab her free guide featuring quick, practical hacks for thriving with ADHD. If this conversation resonates with you or someone you love, share it and join a growing community redefining what it means to live successfully with neurodivergence.
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What happens when a devastating brain injury leads to an unexpected creative breakthrough? For Sarah Sparks, it meant birthing the "Monsters on Mill Street" series – vibrant, heartfelt stories that are transforming how children handle big emotions and life's challenges.
Sarah's journey began with a Thanksgiving fall that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, leaving her unable to perform everyday tasks. During recovery, these monster characters emerged as her "life raft," helping her process family challenges while healing. Today, these stories have become powerful tools helping children navigate everything from explosive anger and ADHD to social anxiety and resilience.
The genius of Sarah's approach lies in how her monsters connect with children on their level. Rather than telling kids what to feel or how to behave, each character faces relatable challenges while discovering practical solutions. Albie in "The Angriest Monster" teaches grounding techniques using the five senses. Max shows how satisfying organization can be. Becks helps high-energy kids recognize appropriate times and places for movement. Sky tackles the painful reality of "masking" to fit in, while Drake demonstrates finding joy in small moments during overwhelming times.
Parents and educators share remarkable success stories – like the little girl going through her parents' divorce who adopted Albie's calming techniques independently after repeated bedtime readings. This transformative power comes through stories children genuinely enjoy, allowing them to internalize emotional tools through repetition and engagement.
Beyond creating meaningful books, Sarah partners with Love Smiles to bring comfort through stories to children battling cancer. She understands firsthand how books can provide normalcy during life's hardest moments, recalling how her own mother helped her find joy during homeless periods in her youth.
Discover how these lovable monsters are changing lives at MonstersOnMillStreet.com, where you can explore the books, donate to pediatric cancer patients, and find educational resources to help the children in your life build emotional resilience – one monster at a time.
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What would happen if you could travel back in time and meet your younger self? In this captivating conversation with Amy Daughters, we explore the profound journey she took in writing her memoir "You Cannot Mess This Up: A True Story That Never Happened," where she imagines returning to 1978 and spending Thanksgiving weekend with her childhood family.
Amy reveals how inhabiting the same space with her energetic younger self transformed her relationship with her past. "If I'm not going to stand up for us, who's going to stand up for us?" she asks, capturing the moment she became her own champion. Through the creative device of time travel, Amy found healing wit wounds that aren't 'extreme' are still wounds – validating that ordinary family dynamics can leave extraordinary emotional imprints.
The most touching moments come through Amy's reimagined conversations with grandparents who had passed away before she reached adulthood. These scenes provided emotional fulfillment that transcended fiction, becoming "real" and ultimately changing her. Ann and Amy discuss how the book allowed Amy to understand her complicated relationship with her mother in a new light: "I knew she didn't like me, but somehow this book helped me realize that she loves me."
Amy addresses family secrets, unacknowledged incidents, and the pattern of "acting like it never happened" was just the climate of the 70's. Her journey demonstrates how revisiting our pasts with compassionate eyes can reveal sources of strength and support that were present all along, even when unrecognized.
The conversation takes an unexpected turn when we learn how writing this memoir sparked another powerful act of healing—Amy handwrote 580 personal letters to people from her life. It’s proof that when we make peace with our past, we often uncover new paths forward we never could have imagined. Her latest book, Dear Dana: That Time I Went Crazy and Wrote All 580 Handwritten Letters, is out now.
Ready to take your own emotional time-travel journey? Listen now and discover how loving your past self might be the key to liberating your present one.
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When Going Back to your 10-year-old self, Changes Everything!
What would happen if you suddenly woke up in 1978 face-to-face with your 10-year-old self? In this captivating conversation, award-winning author Amy Weiland-Daughters shares the remarkable journey behind her book "You Cannot Mess This Up," a time-travel memoir that beautifully blends nostalgia, humor, and profound emotional healing.
Amy reveals how what began as "a funny back-in-time book" unexpectedly transformed into a therapeutic journey through her childhood. Through vivid descriptions of Thanksgiving 1978—complete with Jordache jeans, Atari games, and her mother's traditional dinner—she explores how stepping back into her childhood home allowed her to see her parents, siblings, and younger self through entirely new eyes.
The conversation dives into the vivid contrasts between 1978 and today—a world with no smartphones, no Google, just a trusty Sears Catalog and trips to the mall that felt like events of epic proportion. Amy paints a nostalgic picture of a simpler time, filled with innocence and analog joys, yet she doesn't shy away from the reality of the present.
Most powerfully, Amy shares how writing this book healed her relationship with "Little Amy." What began as embarrassment at her younger self's exuberance evolved into deep appreciation: "I want to honor that bowl-cutter kid every day for the rest of my life and make her proud, because she's the best part of me."
Through laughter, tears, and moments of profound insight, Amy's story reminds us that our most ordinary family stories matter. As she puts it: "Just because it wasn't a case of extremes doesn't mean it didn't happen." Her creative approach to processing childhood memories offers listeners a roadmap for examining their own pasts with compassion and understanding.
Whether you're drawn to nostalgic trips through the 1970s or seeking ways to reconcile with your younger self, this episode promises both entertainment and healing. Have you ever wondered what you'd say if you could talk to your childhood self? Listen in and join the conversation.
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What happens when the house suddenly goes quiet? When the roles that defined you for decades shift beneath your feet? In this heartfelt conversation with award-winning journalist and author Rita Lussier, we explore the profound journey of rediscovering yourself after the nest empties.
Rita shares the raw emotional reality of returning home after dropping her youngest at college—that moment when muscle memory expects noise and activity but encounters silence instead. With remarkable honesty, she dismantles the harmful myth that struggling with this transition somehow indicates you've placed too much emphasis on family. Instead, she validates what many experience but few discuss: the disorientation that comes when a 24/7 job that's occupied decades of your life suddenly transforms.
The conversation weaves through multiple life transitions—from redefining partnerships after years of child-focused activity to the complex emotional terrain of caring for aging parents. Rita's poignant description of role reversal with her mother, particularly during her battle with Alzheimer's, captures the bittersweet nature of becoming the caregiver to those who once cared for you.
Most powerfully, Rita offers wisdom for anyone facing uncertainty: "Be patient with yourself. You may not know all the answers right now—in fact, you may not know any answers—but you will. You just have to give yourself some time." Through personal stories, including how writing became both her therapy and eventually her path forward, she illustrates how embracing the unknown can lead to unexpected gifts.
Whether you're approaching an empty nest, in the midst of that transition, or navigating any significant life change, Rita's insights remind us that while beginnings and endings are inevitable, how we move through them shapes who we become. Her book "And Now Back to Me: Stories from an Empty Nest" continues this conversation, meeting readers wherever they are in life's journey.
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The simple act of handing a ham and cheese sandwich to a homeless woman named Millie sparked something extraordinary – a movement that would transform the lives of over a million people experiencing homelessness across America.
Karen Olson's story begins with profound childhood loss. When her mother died by suicide, it created a hole in her heart that gave her unique empathy for others' suffering. Years later, while working in corporate America developing marketing campaigns, Karen felt called to something more meaningful. That sandwich in 1981 became the first step in a journey that would change countless lives, including her own.
What makes Karen's approach revolutionary is her philosophy of meeting people exactly where they are, without judgment. After discovering that families with children represented 35% of the homeless population, she created the innovative model behind Family Promise: religious congregations working together to provide shelter in their buildings on a rotational basis, with volunteers offering meals, support, and most importantly, human connection.
The statistics Karen shares are sobering – one in 30 children experiences homelessness annually, with most renting families spending over half their income on housing. But Family Promise's 81% success rate offers hope in addressing this crisis. Now operating in 44 states with 200,000+ volunteers (a volunteer force larger than Ford's workforce), the organization has expanded to include prevention, transitional housing, and comprehensive support services.
Karen's personal journey took another challenging turn when a cryotherapy accident left her with a spinal cord injury. Yet she continues finding ways to make a difference through speaking engagements and adaptive painting, embodying Pablo Picasso's wisdom: "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."
Join us for this powerful conversation about turning pain into purpose, the healing that comes from helping others, and how authentic human connection can transform both the helped and the helper. Whether you're curious about addressing homelessness in your community or seeking inspiration to make a difference, Karen's story reminds us that we all have the power to create ripples of positive change.
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Rebecca Galli's story isn't just about survival—it's about creating a magnificent life from the pieces that remain after tragedy shatters your original plans. Picking up where Part 1 left off, this powerful conversation delves deeper into Rebecca's extraordinary journey of navigating motherhood from a wheelchair, building a thriving autism nonprofit, and finding joy amidst devastating losses.
Twenty-five years ago, Rebecca channeled her experience as a mother of a child with autism into founding Pathfinders for Autism, an organization that now provides support to tens of thousands annually. What began as parents sharing resources around a kitchen table has blossomed into a comprehensive support system with a worldwide database. Rebecca's approach to life's challenges—creating "parallel paths" when faced with uncertainty—became the philosophical foundation for an organization that has changed countless lives.
The conversation takes a profound turn when Rebecca shares how she processed simultaneous tragedies. After experiencing her brother's death, her own paralysis, her divorce, and her daughter's autism diagnosis, Rebecca developed an almost supernatural ability to move quickly from grief to action. When her mother and son died within six hours of each other, her sister offered the perfect comforting words: "Maybe it's mom's time to take care of him now." This moment perfectly encapsulates Rebecca's life philosophy—finding meaning and even beauty in circumstances that might crush someone else.
Perhaps most striking is Rebecca's relationship with faith through hardship. She shares her father's tradition of the "black chair"—a safe space where honest feelings could be expressed without judgment, even anger toward God. As Rebecca beautifully puts it, "I've been in a relationship with God for as long as I can remember, but not always on speaking terms." Her father, a minister who wrote a book called "Sit Down God, I'm Angry," taught her that authentic spirituality makes room for questioning and rage.
Throughout her journey, Rebecca has discovered that acceptance doesn't mean surrendering to circumstances—it means redirecting your energy toward what remains possible. From wheelchair dancing to wearing sparkly boots because "if you can't stand up, stand out," she demonstrates that joy can coexist with hardship when we shift our focus from limitations to possibilities.
Ready to rethink what's possible in your own life? Grab Rebecca's books "Rethinking Possible" and "Morning Fuel," visit beckygalli.com, and remember her powerful mantra: "Life can be good no matter what."
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What does resilience look like after losing your brother, your son, your marriage, your ability to walk, and raising a child with autism? Rebecca Galli knows this terrain intimately. As a bestselling author of over 400 columns, her books "Rethinking Possible" and "Morning Fuel" offer hard-earned wisdom from a life that repeatedly challenged the limits of human endurance. Rebecca also founded Pathfinders for Autism, an organization to help children and families with autism.
Rebecca opens up about being paralyzed by transverse myelitis (a rare condition affecting one in a million) just nine days after her divorce was finalized, while raising four children—two with special needs. Through these unimaginable circumstances, she discovered that how we start our day sets the tone for everything that follows.
Her father, a pastor, instilled powerful mantras that became lifelines: "What is planned is possible" and "You will always walk with a limp, but you will walk." These words took on profound new meanings as Rebecca had to repeatedly rethink what was possible when life kept changing the rules.
The conversation explores her innovative approach to uncertainty through "parallel paths"—simultaneously preparing for multiple possible outcomes rather than becoming paralyzed by the unknown. She shares how this strategy helped her face questions like "Will I walk again?" and "How will I raise my children?" with clarity and purpose.
Perhaps most moving is Rebecca's philosophy about relationships: "Let your love be larger than any circumstance." This approach helped her maintain connections even through grief, different coping styles, and physical limitations. She also reveals how founding Pathfinders for Autism following her daughter's diagnosis transformed personal challenge into purpose, now serving 20,000 people annually.
Whether you're facing your own impossible situation or simply seeking perspective, Rebecca's journey shows that resilience isn't about avoiding pain—it's about pivoting from "why is this happening?" to "how will I handle this?" and finding unexpected joy along the way.
Take a moment today to subscribe, share with someone facing their own challenges, and join us for part two of this extraordinary conversation next week.
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Ever found yourself facing life's sourest moments with nothing but a flimsy straw and sheer determination? That feeling when survival feels scrappy, resilience feels exhausting, and hope comes in sips rather than gulps?
In this raw, honest conversation, we dive deep into what it really looks like to navigate life's toughest seasons when you feel underequipped, unseen, or simply exhausted. From unexpected grief to family crises, financial hardships to emotional burnout, we explore the messy reality of MacGyvering your way through adversity with whatever tools you have available.
We challenge the notion of toxic positivity that demands artificial cheerfulness during genuine struggle, and instead make space for emotional honesty. You'll discover why feeling without shame while still choosing to move forward creates the foundation for true resilience. We share personal stories about creative coping mechanisms when traditional healing methods aren't accessible – from crying in the shower to blasting music in the car to decluttering a room to declutter the mind.
The conversation shifts to the power of community during our darkest moments. While independence is often celebrated, we reveal why resilience isn't actually a solo sport and how borrowing strength from others sustains us until we rebuild our own reserves. You'll walk away understanding how reframing "why me?" to "what now?" transforms your relationship with difficulty and puts you back in the driver's seat of your own story.
Stay with us until the end where we celebrate the importance of small victories in a culture that only recognizes dramatic triumphs. Remember – even with just a straw, you can still sip your way through the storm, because sometimes surviving is the victory. Your resilience in working with limited resources isn't just survival—it's a testament to the remarkable human spirit.
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A 93-year-old powerhouse and her equally remarkable daughter share wisdom gleaned from lives spanning Depression-era hardship, wartime childhood, personal loss, and professional reinvention in this captivating Mother's Day conversation.
Meet Gwen Borden and Amy Goober, co-authors of "My Mother Always Says: 25 Lessons for Finding the Silver Lining"—women whose combined 150+ years of experience offer profound insights on resilience. Gwen's extraordinary journey began when she was born during the Depression, lived through her sister's polio diagnosis, was just 10 during Pearl Harbor's bombing and spent nights, alone during wartime blackouts, while her dad worked the war and her mom was an air raid warden, and later witnessed the Twin Towers fall during 9/11. Rather than being defined by tragedy, she channeled her experiences into becoming a pioneering social worker who opened the first bereavement center of its kind and counseled many directly affected by the 9/11 tragedy.
Their central philosophy—"there are no bad experiences in life, just ones we don't learn from"—has guided them through profound challenges. When Gwen's husband received a terminal diagnosis at 49, she transformed grief into purpose by focusing on giving him "a good death" at home. This approach of relabeling negative experiences and finding opportunity in adversity forms the foundation of their shared wisdom.
Amy embodies this resilience in her own journey, having lost her father as a teen before launching multiple successful careers—from a bakery business at 26 to coaching hundreds of women through midlife transitions. Her mantra of "get comfortable being uncomfortable" encourages women to take action rather than remain stuck in comfortable routines. Now through her Wandering Women travel experiences, she helps others build confidence through community adventures.
What makes their perspective so valuable is their commitment to continual reinvention. At 93, Gwen published her first book and remains vibrant and engaged with life. Their intergenerational wisdom reminds us that our later years can be among our most meaningful chapters—and that asking "how will I handle this?" instead of "why me?" transforms our darkest moments into opportunities for growth.
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The resilient spirit refuses to be broken. Autumn Star Canterbury embodies this truth in ways that will leave you breathless.
When you've been traded for a horse, abandoned at a homeless shelter, and told repeatedly that your life amounts to nothing, you face a choice - surrender to despair or find something greater to believe in. Autumn chose the latter, and her journey illuminates the extraordinary power of what she calls "the silent gift."
With captivating rawness, Autumn reveals how horses became her first teachers in resilience. Growing up isolated on vast ranches without friends or supportive family, she studied these magnificent animals, learning from their ability to adapt and survive. "My spirit is not just unbreakable," she explains, "it is powerful like a horse - built to endure, to carry burdens without faltering."
This conversation delves deeply into how faith anchored Autumn when everything else was stripped away. The white Bible given to her after her mother's tragic death became her constant companion, offering guidance when human support failed her. Through her darkest moments, she developed a philosophy that continues to propel her forward: "To a committed mind, there is no failure, so be mindful what you are committed to."
Today, at 40, Autumn is finishing her high school education, preparing to join the National Guard as a chaplain assistant, and raising three remarkable children who are finding their own paths to success. Her daughter Faith - born prematurely at just over one pound - has enlisted in the Marines, embodying the resilience that runs through their family's veins.
Autumn's testimony reminds us that healing isn't about erasing our scars but finding the strength to carry them while still rising. Her courage challenges us to examine how we respond to our own hardships and whether we're allowing past wounds to define our future.
Listen, be moved, and perhaps discover your own silent gift waiting to transform pain into purpose.
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What happens when the people meant to love you become the source of your deepest wounds? In this unforgettable episode, one woman shares her powerful journey through a childhood shaped by betrayal, abandonment, and unthinkable loss—yet somehow, she never gave up.
Her story is raw, riveting, and at times, almost too painful to believe. But it’s also one of grit, transformation, and an inner strength that refused to break. Through every heartbreak, she discovered something stronger than pain: purpose.
This is a conversation you won’t forget—and one that just might shift how you see your own story.
🎧 Tune in and listen closely. Because survival is just the beginning.
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Do you like where your thoughts are taking you? Our minds are powerful instruments, capable of leading us toward hope or trapping us in cycles of fear and doubt. When facing situations we can't change – like caring for a loved one with a debilitating condition or confronting triggering circumstances from our past – our thoughts can either become our prison or our pathway forward.
Fear manifests in countless ways: constant anxiety about worst-case scenarios, the belief that we aren't good enough, reluctance to trust others after being hurt, or isolation when connection is what we desperately need. As we explore in this deeply personal conversation, many of us live our lives believing doors are locked when they actually aren't – held captive by perceptions that have become our reality.
Drawing wisdom from Craig Groeschel's "Winning the War in Your Mind" and our own experiences, we unpack the powerful truth that a lie believed affects your life as if it were true. The negative messages we've internalized – often from childhood – can follow us for decades if we don't confront them. Yet even in our most challenging moments, we retain control over how we respond, who we trust, and which thoughts we allow to take residence in our minds.
This episode offers a raw look at navigating chronic difficult situations, building trust when you've been hurt, finding strength in vulnerability, and creating respite within storms you can't escape. Whether you're struggling with "stinking thinking," feeling paralyzed by fear, or battling feelings of unworthiness, remember this: you are not who others say you are – you are who God says you are. And sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is to keep moving forward, one step at a time.
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Zoe Smith shares her transformative journey from a high-powered career to becoming a holistic healing practitioner, offering powerful insights on overcoming fear to reach our goals and healing the whole self.
• Everything we want exists on the other side of fear, but we must focus on our goals rather than obstacles
• The breath directly connects to our parasympathetic nervous system, making breathwork a powerful tool for reducing stress hormones
• QHHT (Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique) helps resolve past trauma and provides healing through accessing the subconscious
• Reiki channels universal life force energy to balance the body's energy systems and remove blockages
• Despite increased technological connectivity, people report feeling more disconnected and lonely than ever before
• Healing is an ongoing journey of peeling away layers, not a one-time event
• Simple daily practices like breathwork, gratitude exercises, and using the five senses can bring us back to center
Connect with Zoe at yourvitalitycoaching.com or find her on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about her services, which are available worldwide through Zoom.
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Zoe Smith's transformation from policy-maker to holistic healer represents a journey many secretly yearn for but few dare to undertake. After years shaping national healthcare policy in the UK, including work on the groundbreaking "Caring for Our Future" white paper, Zoe found herself trapped in the familiar cycle of 70-hour workweeks and diminishing returns on her wellbeing.
The turning point came dramatically – sitting under her desk, overwhelmed with tears, Googling symptoms of depression. Rather than simply medicating her way through, Zoe chose a different path, taking a courageous five-month pause to reconnect with herself through walking, meditation, yoga, and counseling. What began as a seemingly career-disrupting break became the foundation for an entirely new direction.
Her subsequent professional choices reflect a profound shift in priorities – moving from systemic change to individual impact as a mental capacity advocate, rescuing a failing home care service, and eventually taking the bold leap to teach in China with just two suitcases and an open heart. This decision, made long before the pandemic would reshape global perspectives on health, exposed her to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and energy-based healing approaches that deeply resonated with her emerging understanding of holistic wellbeing.
Throughout our conversation, Zoe reveals how Eastern approaches to health – from public parks filled with all generations practicing tai chi to efficient healthcare systems integrating traditional and modern medicine – contrast sharply with Western models. She shares practical wisdom about everyday healing tools like essential oils, sound therapy tuned to 432 hertz (the healing frequency), and the transformative power of simply connecting with nature.
Now as founder of Your Vitality Coaching, Zoe offers a unique blend of yoga, reiki, sound therapy, hypnotherapy, and life coaching – all informed by her remarkable journey across professional domains and cultural traditions. Her story reminds us that sometimes our greatest breakdowns lead to our most meaningful breakthroughs, and that courage often means acknowledging fear while refusing to be immobilized by it.
Curious about incorporating traditional healing practices into your life? Explore this episode to discover how small, intentional rituals might transform your wellbeing in ways conventional medicine alone cannot address.
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Tina and Anne explore the complex relationship between joy and grief, examining how these seemingly opposite emotions often coexist and even strengthen each other. They share personal stories of experiencing both simultaneously and discuss strategies for allowing both emotions to breathe.
• Joy and grief create an emotional tug of war that varies in response – sometimes numbing, sometimes pushing, sometimes inspiring
• Past trauma can make it difficult to trust joy, creating a pattern of expecting something bad after experiencing happiness
• Grief can push someone into survival mode, making it harder to let joy in
• Holding onto grief can feel like the last connection to someone we've lost
• Allowing both joy and grief requires giving ourselves permission to feel everything
• Tina's son demonstrates remarkable resilience after a sports injury, showing character by focusing on supporting teammates
• Creating rituals to honor both emotions can help process grief while making space for joy
• Living with chronic grief doesn't mean excluding joy – it's a daily choice to let in both
Remember, there's purpose in the pain and hope in the journey. Joy and grief are not opposites but companions that reflect the full richness of life.
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Tom LaGrave shares his remarkable journey from Navy SEAL to licensed clinical social worker, revealing how personal struggle and recovery led him to create Honor Bound Academy, a transformative program for youth transitioning to adulthood. Through his 35 years of experience working with adolescents, Tom has developed a powerful approach that teaches resilience, accountability, and personal responsibility while helping young people discover their purpose.
• Navy SEAL training taught Tom to "never quit" – a principle he's applied throughout life's challenges
• Hitting rock bottom with addiction after military discharge forced him to rebuild his life through recovery
• Working with youth in recovery settings showed Tom how young people could help him reconnect with emotions
• The Honor Bound Academy creates a modern rite of passage for 18-20 year olds through a 365-day live-in program
• Deliberately creating opportunities for failure teaches participants how to overcome challenges
• Building brotherhood and accountability through team experiences modeled after special forces training
• Using nature's elements (fire, earth, air, water) as healing tools and teachers
• Forgiveness, especially self-forgiveness, is essential to moving forward
• Today's societal division requires sacrifice from older generations to support youth
• Finding purpose through helping others creates healing for both parties
Visit thehonorboundacademy.org to learn more about Tom's program and his book "Special Welfare Social Warfare."
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When was the last time you truly appreciated an ordinary moment? In this heartfelt conversation, we unpack the counterintuitive idea that mundane moments might actually be the most meaningful parts of our lives.
After recovering from a bout with influenza that swept through the family, we reflect on an elderly relative's wisdom: "Be thankful for just the regular, ordinary moments, because that means everything is okay." This perspective shift—from viewing mundane as boring to recognizing it as a sign that all is well—provides the foundation for our exploration of everyday experiences.
We share personal stories about the seemingly insignificant childhood moments that became core memories: a father's daily game of hide-and-seek, watching game shows with grandparents under a special blanket, or the comfort of family traditions. These mundane moments weren't just fillers between significant events—they were the very substance that shaped who we became.
Drawing wisdom from writers like Katie Christian, who notes that "99% of life is mundane and a person's life is a collection of all the moments that happen in the middle," we discuss practical ways to embrace ordinary experiences. From mindfulness techniques like engaging all five senses to creating deliberate moments of silence, we offer strategies for finding meaning in routine.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as we reflect on how, after losing loved ones, what we miss most isn't grand gestures but everyday interactions—their laugh, their cooking, their comforting presence. Through personal stories about treasured mementos like a grandfather's comb or a grandmother's candy dish, we illustrate how the mundane becomes precious in retrospect.
Join us to discover how slowing down, shifting perspective, and embracing simplicity might be the very keys to a richer, more meaningful life—one ordinary moment at a time.
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Can a children's book change a life? In this inspiring episode, author Sasha Saidman reveals how stories about adoption, differences, and self-acceptance meet kids exactly where they are—sparking empathy, imagination, and confidence. From celebrating adoptive families to embracing learning differences like dyslexia, Sasha’s books empower young readers to see their unique stories reflected on every page.
🎧 Listen now and discover why her books belong on every child's shelf!
Children's author Sasha Saidman joins us for an engaging and heartfelt discussion on the multifaceted themes of adoption, dyslexia, and embracing differences. Sasha's narratives have a unique way of bridging the gap between adults and children, offering insights into the joys and challenges of fostering and adopting. Her stories illuminate the deep connections between adoptive parents and children and emphasize the importance of inclusive family traditions that honor diverse backgrounds. By sharing her experiences and those of countless others, Sasha aims to spread positivity and awareness about the complexities and beauty of adoption, underscoring that love and family go beyond blood ties.
Our conversation takes a deeper look into the support structures necessary for young adults aging out of the foster care system, drawing parallels with media portrayals like "Instant Family." We reflect on the innate bonds formed with adopted children through humorous and touching moments that define family life. Sasha shares anecdotes that reinforce the idea that family is built on love and time, not just genetics. This episode also touches on the unique journey of self-discovery for adopted children and the crucial role of adoptive parents in providing a supportive environment, especially during the tumultuous teenage years.
Sasha’s journey goes beyond storytelling as she opens up about her personal experiences with dyslexia, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and the celebration of learning differences. We explore the power of imagination through childhood adventures and the joy of seeing the world through a child's eyes. This episode emphasizes fostering self-confidence and compassion in young readers, as well as the vital role of parents and educators in supporting diverse learning styles. Sasha’s insights remind us that personal growth is a continuous journey, and embracing one's unique strengths can lead to a fulfilling life.
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Urgent: Achievement Center for Therapy Faces Closure – Needs Help NOW!
Shawn Manvell, founder of three therapy centers, is on the brink of shutting down because Tricare, military insurance, has not paid since January 1. The center has transformed lives—helping autistic children find their voice and get off communication devices, preventing feeding tubes, and providing essential therapy for the children of military families. But they are trapped—stopping services means abandoning care, yet they cannot continue without urgent support. Please listen to their story and help keep their doors open! Act now to save this vital resource for military children.
We need the attention of anyone who can donate or a philanthropist who is able to help them keep their doors open. This is imminent.
Their GoFundMe is available at Achievement Center for Therapy
You can call them at (805) 383-1497,
Email is shawn@achievementcenterfortherapy.com
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Can a children's book change a life? In this inspiring episode, author Sasha Saidman reveals how stories about adoption, differences, and self-acceptance meet kids exactly where they are—sparking empathy, imagination, and confidence. From celebrating adoptive families to embracing learning differences like dyslexia, Sasha’s books empower young readers to see their unique stories reflected on every page.
🎧 Listen now and discover why her books belong on every child's shelf!
Join us as we welcome cherished children's author Sasha Saidman, who opens up about the heartfelt inspiration behind her impactful children's book, "First Day, an adoption story." Sasha's inclusive approach avoids specific details, allowing every family to see their unique adoption journey reflected in her narrative. With personal stories woven throughout, Sasha gives us a glimpse into the special moments that define chosen families, making this episode a must-listen for anyone touched by adoption.
Sasha dives into the intricacies of open adoption, recounting tender stories that highlight the selflessness of birth parents and the deep connections formed through openness. We share intimate experiences about the ongoing supportive relationships that can provide adoptees with a sense of belonging and security. The conversation does not shy away from the emotional complexities of adoption, addressing everything from DNA tests and unanswered questions to the beauty of creating a safe environment for children to explore their identities.
In a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, we discuss the emotional journey of reconnecting with biological relatives and how each adoption story is unique. From navigating the expectations of biological ties to understanding the richness of extended family networks, we emphasize the diverse experiences of adoptees and their families. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, we celebrate the profound bonds formed through love and chosen family, underscoring the specialness of adopted children and the shared experiences of adoptive families.
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Victoria Ellen's extraordinary journey from terror to triumph is the heart of this episode. Eight months pregnant and seeking refuge from an abusive marriage, Victoria's tale is a powerful testament to courage and resilience. Supported by her father, she reflects on the fear of the unknown and the importance of having a support system during such critical times. Her story unfolds with raw honesty, highlighting the bravery required to escape and the inadequacies of legal protections like civil orders in truly safeguarding victims.
We also shine a spotlight on the systemic failures within child abuse investigations through the experiences of a determined mother and her children. Despite valid claims, the justice system's inertia and manipulation tactics employed by an abusive father left them vulnerable. Our conversation uncovers the frustrating gaps within the justice process that leave families feeling powerless, while also highlighting the relentless pursuit of justice by those who refuse to be silenced. The narrative serves as a call for urgent reform, underscoring the critical need for a more effective and empathetic response from authorities.
As Victoria and other voices share their paths to healing, the episode becomes a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of resilience. We explore the profound impact of personal stories, from overcoming skin cancer to finding love and grace in unexpected places. Symbols like the number 17 and the sighting of a bald eagle become emblems of victory and hope, illustrating the spirit of empowerment in the face of adversity. These stories collectively emphasize that sharing and supporting one another can inspire change and foster strength in those who listen.
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What if the person who vowed to love and protect you was the very one orchestrating your pain? Join us on Real Talk with Tina and Ann as Ann sits down with Victoria Ellen, the courageous author of "Painting in the Rain: A True Story of Trickery and Triumph." Victoria shares her chilling journey of surviving domestic abuse at the hands of her former husband, Daryl—a charming facade that masked a controlling and dark nature. Together, we unravel the complex web of deception often hiding behind religious facades and the societal misconceptions that enable it.
Victoria's story is a poignant reminder of the insidious nature of narcissistic grooming and manipulation. We explore how her ex-husband's sociopathic tendencies were adeptly cloaked under the guise of charm and religiosity, creating an environment ripe for control and emotional turmoil. As Victoria recounts her own susceptibility to Daryl's influence, our discussion highlights the critical importance of recognizing red flags and the subtle, often overlooked signs of an abuser who conceals their true intentions.
Through Victoria's testimony, we are inspired by her resilience and strength in escaping such a toxic environment. We delve into the intricacies of mental and emotional control, the pain of realizing abuse extends to one's child, and the crucial role of supportive friends in breaking free from the cycle of abuse. This episode is a powerful testament to the endurance of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the urgent need for awareness and support for victims of abuse.
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Ever wondered why some behaviors are mistaken for attention-seeking when they're really cries for connection? Join us on a heartfelt exploration of the thin line between these two often-confused concepts. Real Talk with Tina and Ann uncovers the hidden motivations behind seemingly disruptive actions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and fulfilling the innate human need for connection. By sharing intimate stories and professional insights, we shed light on how past traumas can manifest in harmful ways and offer practical strategies to foster healthier relationships with those seeking genuine emotional bonds.
Throughout this episode, we dive deep into the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly when raising children with unique needs. We highlight the crucial role of making children feel valued and understood. Listen in as we explore tailored learning approaches and the significance of nurturing environments, sharing how these elements contribute to children's thriving and secure attachments.
As we journey through the complex terrain of childhood trauma and loss, we share a poignant personal story of grappling with grief and maintaining normalcy amidst chaos. This narrative reminds us of the importance of recognizing the hidden struggles children may face and the necessity of adult attentiveness to these silent cries for help. Finally, we explore the courage it takes to seek assistance on the healing journey, reinforced by inspiring quotes from figures like Mariska Hargitay, Robert Kiyosaki and Barack Obama. Together, we reassure you that there is no set timeline for healing and that seeking help is a powerful step towards personal growth and resilience.
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Mental health is vital, especially amid the chaos of current events. This episode weaves personal stories with insights on finding balance, kindness, and the importance of prioritizing peace at home over the noise outside.
• The impact of the news on mental health
• Humor and light-heartedness in navigating tough narratives
• Personal anecdotes showcasing the importance of family and memories
• The essential feeling of safety at home amidst chaos
• Emphasizing kindness and empathy over division
• Tips for finding balance in everyday life
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Join Denise Bard and Ann as we unravel the complexity of what truly lies beneath behaviors labeled as attention-seeking, especially in children dealing with trauma. Trauma and loss can profoundly impact a child’s need for connection. We aim to shift perspectives, advocating for empathy and understanding from adults and educators towards children unfairly labeled as “bad.”
Our conversation extends beyond childhood, exploring how unaddressed needs can manifest into adulthood, often leading to more significant issues, as seen in our work with women in jail. We examine how the absence of connection in formative years can derail lives and emphasize the pivotal role as adults play by simply asking if someone is okay. Through personal stories and professional encounters, we aim to foster a compassionate society that prioritizes genuine connection over superficial labels. Tune in to understand how meaningful connections can change lives and join us next week as we continue this vital discussion.
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Kari Baker joins us for a heartfelt conversation that reveals the hidden layers of parenting children with invisible neurological differences. From wrestling with the emotional intricacies of isolation and uncertainties to navigating the special education system, we promise you'll walk away with practical tools and a refreshed perspective. Kari's insights are not just theoretical; they're born from experience, making her guidance on IEP meetings and parental rights invaluable. Together, we explore how nurturing passions can illuminate new paths for children, forging fulfilling life journeys.
Parenting is a journey with both challenges and joys, especially when guiding children through social hurdles. With stories that resonate deeply, we explore teaching self-advocacy to empower children in difficult moments. From handling tantrums with a strategic "poker face" to navigating the minefield of peer interactions and bullying, we find that communication is the key. Kari's poignant narratives remind us of the courage and perseverance required, ensuring that our children not only survive but thrive in their unique environments.
Embracing the journey of parenting a child with autism, we reflect on the evolution of community support and the significance of finding purpose amid challenges. We discuss the pride in children's growth, the beauty of autism, and the power of unique pathways. Kari shares touching stories that highlight the positive impacts children with special needs can have on the world and emphasizes the importance of focusing on their strengths. This episode is a testament to the resilience and love that defines families navigating similar paths, offering encouragement and a sense of shared journey to all who listen.
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Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt exploration into the world of parenting children with neurological differences. Our guest, Kari Baker, shares her courageous journey from a thriving career in financial services to her new path as an advocate for invisible neurological differences. Through candid anecdotes, Kari reveals how her son Brady’s diagnosis of autism and ADHD reshaped her family’s life and led her to establish Kind Families, a community aiming to support parents navigating similar challenges. Together with Ann, who’s raising three adopted children with various neurological differences, we uncover the significance of embracing life's unpredictable turns and celebrating the unique gifts of each child.
We discuss the impact of faith, joy, and a personalized approach to nurturing each child's strengths, all while navigating the day-to-day realities of special needs education and social interactions.
Our episode also shines a light on the resilience required when parenting a child with neurological differences. Kari and Ann share their experiences with educational choices, bullying, and fostering self-advocacy in social settings. From homeschooling decisions to recognizing unhealthy friendships, we focus on balancing protection with empowerment. As we address these challenges, Kari aims to inspire and provide solace to families who are walking a similar path, reinforcing the importance of adaptation and embracing change to meet the evolving needs of children with invisible differences.
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What if you could transform your life not by setting daunting goals, but by embracing subtle, sustainable habits? This week on Real Talk with Tina and Anne, we promise to guide you through the journey of personal growth and self-care, inspired by James Clear's "Atomic Habits." We share personal stories, especially those that resonate with mothers who often put others first, highlighting the profound effect addiction can have on families. Discover the importance of recognizing your own needs and practicing self-kindness amidst life's challenges.
Ever wonder how dealing with difficult people can teach you more about yourself than you realize? We dive into the notion of self-reflection and the art of setting boundaries. Learn why maintaining your true character in the face of adversity is essential, and how to turn potentially negative interactions into opportunities for personal growth. Through our anecdotes, we highlight the power of choice, encouraging you to live intentionally and authentically, while being mindful of the voices that truly matter.
Join us as we explore the transformative power of rest and the courage it takes to ask for help. Delve into the challenges of managing emotions and the importance of forgiveness, even when apologies are not forthcoming. Our conversation touches on the joy of lifelong learning and curiosity, from crafting to language acquisition, and how these pursuits can enrich our personalities and relationships. Listen in to learn how prioritizing rest and seeking support are powerful steps toward growth and self-improvement.
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Holidays can be a complex tapestry of emotions, where joy and sorrow often weave together, creating a season that's as challenging as it is beautiful. Picture this: you're working at a Battered Women's Shelter during the holiday rush, finding moments of happiness amid heartbreak. Our episode peels back the layers on these poignant experiences, sharing personal stories that highlight the power of kindness and the bittersweet nature of altering traditions due to illness or loss. We embrace the beauty of making new memories, even when the past holds a tender grip on our hearts.
Ever had a kid turn a classic Christmas song into something hilarious? We kick off with such a story before venturing into the shadows cast by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). As the days grow shorter, millions find themselves grappling with winter blues. We bring light—quite literally—into this dialogue, discussing how therapy, staying active, and new traditions can illuminate our mental landscapes. Sharing our own encounters with SAD, we offer insights into how light and connection can brighten the darkest days.
Looking at the holidays through the eyes of children, we explore the disruption of school closures and the challenges they face without their usual support systems. With a personal tale of a child navigating trust issues at school, we underscore the importance of open communication and a nurturing environment. As we anticipate an exciting Christmas trip to New York, we remember those who might need a little extra support, urging our listeners to engage in community outreach. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that together, we can craft a season of compassion and positive impact.
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What if life’s greatest challenges could become stepping stones to purpose and resilience? On this episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, we welcome Ann Marie Thrives—Amazon bestselling author, speaker, and life coach—who has transformed personal trauma into a source of hope and healing.
Ann Marie opens up about her journey through multiple car accidents, a battle with breast cancer, and the emotional aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares how these trials strained her faith but ultimately deepened her understanding of resilience and purpose. Ann Marie discusses her book, Esther. Esther was considered one of the bravest women in the Bible and her bravery lies in her ability to do the right thing, even in the face of fear. Fear enters in for all of us, but we can overcome with perseverance and with preparation for what is to come.
Ann Marie also talks about her latest book where she reflects on her own life. Diary of a Fat and Mourning Post-Pandemic Woman, highlights the power of embracing grief, fostering personal growth, and finding hope.
This heartfelt conversation dives into themes of faith, healing, and the transformative power of courage and self-care. Ann Marie also shares resources from her website, wethriveatlife.com, to support personal development as a life coach. Tune in for an empowering discussion that will inspire you to navigate life’s valleys and peaks with renewed strength and purpose.
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Have you ever felt truly heard and understood? In this episode, we invite you to explore the heartwarming power of compassion and listening. Through touching stories, we illustrate how entering conversations with an open heart can create genuine connections. Whether it's a joyful encounter with a singing young man at McDonald's or the gentle wisdom shared by Mary J. Blige during her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame speech, we uncover the profound impact of simple acts of kindness. These moments remind us of the incredible value in listening more than speaking and sharing love and respect with everyone we meet.
Delving into the journey of self-love and acceptance, we reflect on the necessity of forgiving and letting go. Through personal experiences with family and former friends, we highlight that self-worth does not depend on perfection and that everyone deserves kindness, regardless of their past. This episode offers candid anecdotes of finding acceptance in unexpected places, like treatment centers or jails, driving home the message that we are all worthy of love. Let's open our hearts and understand that the journey towards self-acceptance is ongoing and universal.
Finally, inspired by Mary J. Blige's commitment to uplifting others, we celebrate the profound impact of spreading kindness and love. From organizing charitable events to the simple act of donating blood, the ways we can contribute to a better world are countless. Through stories of compassion and the interconnectedness of our lives, we emphasize that none of us walk this journey alone. As we consider how we wish to be remembered, we are reminded that a legacy of kindness and grace is within reach for all of us. Join us for a conversation on love, community, and the fulfillment that comes from giving.
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Join us on an enlightening journey as we unravel the transformative power of these virtues through the lens of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. (This was taped in October) Mary J. Blige's acceptance speech serves as our north star, guiding a heartfelt discussion on how grace can enrich personal relationships and even parenting. We explore the delicate balance between kindness and the compelling need to be right, particularly in a society quick to take offense, while reflecting on how people’s true colors often show in life's changing seasons.
Stand with us at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where the dynamics of waiting in line become a lesson in self-control and grace. Imagine the challenge of someone cutting the line and the decision to stand up for yourself with poise. Through personal stories, we bring to life the art of choosing battles wisely and the lasting impact of our responses in everyday encounters. Parenting anecdotes shed light on teaching children patience and fairness, revealing the profound wisdom that self-control can offer, even in the most mundane situations.
Experience the power of compassionate listening and genuine connection, whether during bedtime chats that fill our children with a sense of love and safety or in a touching encounter with a spirited McDonald's employee. Hear how empathy and active listening create a warm, supportive environment for those around us, leading to unexpected moments of joy and reflection. As we anticipate further insights from Mary J. Blige’s moving speech, we invite you to explore the small acts of kindness that can make a significant difference, one interaction at a time.
You can read all of Mary J. Blige's Acceptance Speech at
https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/mary-j-blige-rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame-2024-speech-1235136432/
Check out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony for all the Induction speeches. It was an amazing night for all.
Ann attended and came out very inspired. Listen to this episode. It is a beautiful episode of parts of Mary's speech woven with words from Tina and Ann.
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Imagine transforming your life with just three simple words a day. Tina takes us on an inspiring journey, revealing how her gratitude group helped turn everyday moments into treasured memories, especially as the holiday season is upon us. Alongside Ann, they discuss how these small daily acts can nurture hope and joy, bringing a sense of completeness and peace to our lives.
Caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's is an emotional journey but also gives moments that are deeply cherished. As we reflect on our roles as caregivers, we find gratitude in these passing moments and the comfort of mementos like a handmade hutch or a parent's Bible. The value of pets, shared experiences, and sentimental items remind us of the enduring connection and solace they provide, even in life's toughest times.
Music and laughter emerge as powerful tools for healing and unity within families. Stories of singing along to Ozzy Osbourne or finding harmony through Pink's songs highlight how these shared experiences uplift our spirits and bring us closer. We celebrate the warmth of family love, the learning that comes from life’s lessons, and the resilience fostered by gratitude and reflection. This episode is a heartfelt reminder to embrace your past, find strength in vulnerability, and cherish the experiences that shape us all.
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In this episode, we explore how celebrating small wins can change your life by shifting your mindset. Through personal stories, we talk about how believing in yourself and viewing "luck" differently can help you conquer fears and chase your dreams. We also discuss the value of mental health and therapy, encouraging you to face self-doubt and uncover your true potential.
Mistakes are part of the journey, too. Inspired by icons like Denzel Washington, we look at how accepting your flaws and "falling forward" can lead to success. We share stories about handling self-criticism and pressure, highlighting the importance of having a support system to boost your confidence.
Finally, we talk about finding peace by letting go, even without closure. This episode touches on feeling lonely in a crowd and the power of self-awareness to overcome it. By opening up about personal challenges, we hope to inspire you to let go of past fears and live boldly, with resilience and self-worth.
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Every step forward in overcoming fear is worth celebrating, no matter how small. This episode is a testament to the power of acknowledging daily victories, as Denise and Ann reflect on the journey towards building confidence and embracing a life unchained from past traumas. Inspired by the encouraging words of Donna Dannenfelser’s "Game On," we discuss how dreams can reignite our purpose and the profound impact of embracing even the tiniest achievements. We invite you to listen and find your own moments of triumph, realizing that a joyful and authentic life is not only possible but within reach for all of us willing to shed identities rooted in survival.
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Life is unpredictable, but what if the key to navigating its twists and turns lies in embracing the journey itself? We share insights on the power of staying present and facing fears head-on, even when the path is challenging. Ann's reflections on how living in a fantasy can hinder personal growth, particularly in relationships, serve as a reminder to confront reality. We explore strategies for handling negativity and breaking free from negative thought spirals with practical tips that can help transform your state of mind.
Daydreams bring joy and whimsy, but they can also stand between us and reality. We reminisce about childhood fantasies, supportive family connections, and the profound impact of strong father figures. Our conversation paints a picture of gratitude for life's unpredictable journey, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging past decisions and the roads they led us down. Through personal anecdotes, we explore how creativity, inspired by Anne Frank's resilience, can be a healing outlet during adversity.
Taking that first step toward success can be daunting, but it's also crucial. We share personal experiences of finding strength through adversity, urging you to start where you are, no matter the challenges. With encouragement and practical advice, our aim is to support your journey toward crafting a brighter future. Alongside quotes from Peter Drucker and Zig Ziglar, we highlight the importance of risk-taking and proactive destiny crafting, inspiring you to move forward, one step at a time.
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The Power of Being Right Where You are Part 2
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What if embracing your pain could be the key to unlocking true healing and moving forward in life? Join us on Real Talk with Tina and Anne for a heartfelt exploration of emotional honesty, where we share personal stories about the complexities of dealing with loss and the importance of allowing ourselves to feel every emotion. We challenge the cliché of "fake it till you make it" and emphasize the beauty of being present with one's emotions, even when they're difficult. It's a journey through the storms of life that can lead to the most profound personal growth.
As we navigate the intricacies of human connections, our conversation shifts to the importance of grace and love in relationships. Reflecting on how effective communication can transform disagreements into opportunities for growth, we ponder the societal shifts toward perfection and its impact on kindness. Tackling the role of social media in this evolution, we remain hopeful for a return to more empathetic interactions. Our belief in the inherent goodness of people serves as a reminder to face difficulties with maturity and to maintain peace by letting go of what disrupts it.
Venturing into tales of adventure and personal discovery, we recount a summer road trip that crossed 16 states, bringing unexpected joys and challenges. From heartwarming encounters at NASA to the thrill of an anticipated Via Ferrata climbing adventure, we celebrate the importance of seizing new experiences. We also share the excitement of converting a minivan into a cozy sleeping space, highlighting the simple pleasures of family travel. This metaphorical journey through peaks and valleys encourages listeners to find beauty and lessons in every moment of life.
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What if the key to unlocking independence for individuals with autism begins with understanding their unique perspective? Join us as we explore the journey of building relationships and developing life skills. In this episode, we dive into the world of autism literature as Ron discusses his book, Adulting on the Spectrum: An Insider's Guide to Navigating Life with Autism. He also talks about two of his other books, A Parent's Guide to Autism and Views from the Spectrum. Drawing from personal experiences, Ron and Ann reflect on being autistic and raising children on the spectrum.
We emphasize the importance of life skills and job skills in shaping future success for those on the spectrum. From early side hustles, like reselling ties, to stories of missed networking opportunities during college, Ron highlights the value of advocacy and the challenges and opportunities in today’s social media-driven world.
This episode also delves into the unique communication styles of people on the spectrum. Every person with autism has a distinct way of communicating, and understanding that person's language style is key. Ron and Ann discuss practical strategies for seeking accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the importance of perseverance.
This episode is a valuable resource for parents and individuals striving to connect with and support those on the autism spectrum. Listen in to discover how advocacy and understanding can pave the way for a brighter future.
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Diagnosed young, Ron Sandison was labeled emotionally impaired, but he defied all the odds getting several degrees and becoming an accomplished author, theology professor, and the first ordained Assemblies of God minister with autism. His story is a testament to perseverance and the power of advocacy. Join as we meet inspiring Ron Sandison, a beacon of hope in the autism community.
In this episode, we learn more about autism and discuss the importance of hands-on learning, educational policies, peer support and strategies to overcome social changes. Ron and Ann delve into personal narratives as Ann is also an autistic individual who got a masters degree after being told she would not graduate high school. The two’s very similar stories create an amazing episode while two autistic individuals discuss their triumphs despite the diagnosis. They talk about bullying and acceptance. They reveal the complexities of living with an invisible disability and how important it is to advocate and use social media as a tool for meaningful change.
**Ron has several books out, but his upcoming book, "Adulting on the Spectrum," aims to guide young adults in navigating life's challenges with confidence and independence. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the unique experiences of individuals with autism, this episode promises valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in and listen to these amazing autistic individuals talk about how they paved a path in their life and for others. Don’t let doctors, educators or anyone in your life define you. You, too, can surpass your dreams and become your best self!
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Have you ever questioned how much power your words truly hold? In this episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, we unravel the emotional turmoil caused by misrepresentation, gossip, and false accusations. Using the gripping storyline of Prison Break as a springboard, we explore how even good intentions can be devastatingly misunderstood, leading to turmoil and broken relationships.
Listen in as we share our personal experiences with gossip, manipulation, and emotional pain—highlighting the unspoken weight our words carry. We emphasize the critical need for empathy, mindful communication, and the consequences of spreading rumors in a world where they can tear lives apart.
We also dive into the poignant realm of unresolved emotions and the heartache of losing a loved one. Ann opens up about her late brother's hidden life and the painful exclusion that left her struggling for closure. Through an unexpected apology from an old friend, we shed light on the importance of reconciliation, seeking forgiveness, and expressing love before it’s too late.
The episode culminates with reflections on setting healthy boundaries in relationships, inspired by Bob Goff’s Love Does. We underscore the importance of guarding our emotional well-being, protecting our hearts, and balancing empathy with self-respect.
Join us on this journey of personal growth, transformation, and the powerful impact of apologies, empathy, and setting boundaries. Don’t miss this episode if you want to learn more about the true power of words and how they can both hurt and heal.
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What happens when someone you trust deeply causes you to lose faith in humanity? On this emotional episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, we welcome back Tina from her summer break and reflect on a profound statement by our previous guest, Mikey Silas. Mikey, an artist and musician, highlights the worst thing you could do to another person. Tina and Ann challenge the old adage, "sticks and stones." The pair discuss personal experiences, showing just how deeply people's actions can impact our lives.
What happens when people close to you or people of authority, wrong you and make you question yourself? This episode promises a raw and honest conversation about the importance of being heard and the journey towards healing from profound emotional wounds. Tune in for an exploration of how we lose a piece of ourselves and trust in people each time our souls are crushed, whether by betrayal, disappointment, or heartbreak—there’s an unspoken loss that runs deeper than we often acknowledge. It's not just the immediate pain or the sting of rejection that lingers; it's the quiet dismantling of something within us. A piece of ourselves slips away in these moments, a part we once trusted to be whole, resilient, and strong.
When we experience these moments of deep hurt, it’s not just a singular event—it’s the erosion of trust, not only in the people around us but also in our own ability to discern, connect, and remain open. We begin to question the reliability of our instincts. Was I too naïve? Should I have seen this coming? With each question, doubt creeps in like a shadow, darkening the trust we once gave freely.
That trust we had in others, in the goodness of people or in love itself, becomes guarded. The heart, once eager to give, becomes hesitant, fortifying itself behind walls built from past wounds.
In losing trust, we also lose a piece of ourselves—our innocence, our belief that people are inherently good or that love is pure. These pieces, once scattered, make it harder to find joy in human connection. And as much as we’d like to believe we can rebuild fully, those broken pieces are hard to mend perfectly. There’s always a scar, a reminder of what was lost and what we fear losing again.
Yet, even though we lose parts of ourselves along the way, we also gain something—a deeper understanding of our capacity to endure, to rebuild in ways we couldn’t imagine. While trust may be harder to come by, we develop a stronger sense of self-awareness, a sharper intuition. Though we may mourn the innocence that’s gone, perhaps in its place, we gain wisdom—the ability to discern who truly deserves access to the fragile, precious parts of our soul.
In the end, losing a piece of ourselves doesn’t mean we’re left incomplete forever. It means we grow in ways that allow us to protect what remains, to heal, and maybe one day, to trust again—but this time, with eyes wide open.
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Cleveland's best vocalist/songwriter, most interesting person, Mikey Silas, talks candidly about some of his worst moments and how the band , Apostle Jones, became part of making amends.
Ann and Mikey explore how personal struggles intersect with music to drive transformation. Mikey shares his journey of overcoming self-doubt, the grief of losing his father, and learning young that he was in control of his destiny. . His experiences demonstrate how adversity can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, helping him unlock his inner strength.
Ann reflects on the biblical story of the "Sinful Woman" and connects it to her work with incarcerated women. She and Mikey discuss how self-image is shaped by both personal views and societal expectations, which can lead to self-sabotage through addiction or modern distractions. They highlight the importance of recognizing and valuing their own worth, especially in the face of these challenges, as a way to heal and grow.
The episode also talks about how supportive relationships help us grow and become stronger. While discussing the song "Superstar Disaster" by Apostle Jones and Toby Raps, they focus on legacy, accepting flaws, and the power of being vulnerable. Mikey stresses that real change happens when we show up, are true to ourselves and connect deeply with others.
Ultimately, the episode illustrates how music—like life itself—can be a powerful tool for healing, self-discovery, and transformation.
Songs from Apostle Jones featured in this episode! Superstar Disaster with Toby Raps
This is Part 2 of "The Healing and Transformative Power of Music,"--Even your lowest moment can be redeemed.
Songs by Apostle Jones, including "Superstar Disaster",
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What if the power of music could heal your deepest wounds and unite communities in the face of adversity? On this transformative episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, we welcome Mikey Silas, the magnetic frontman of Cleveland's dynamic band Apostle Jones. Mikey shares the band's inspiring journey, from their formation in 2019 to their current award-winning success, providing an intimate look at how music became a source of healing and connection during some of the most challenging times.
Mikey opens up about the personal and collective struggles the band faced during the pandemic, including the profound loss of his father. For Mikey and his bandmates, music wasn't just an outlet—it became a sanctuary. It was through music that they found solace, processing grief while bringing hope to others. This episode delves into the universal truth that art, especially music, has the power to heal, inspire, and unite people when they need it most.
A pivotal part of our conversation touches on the unique challenges queer individuals face in a predominantly heteronormative society. Mikey candidly discusses how these experiences have influenced him, adding layers of authenticity and emotion to his art. Apostle Jones music becomes more than just sound; it's a reflection of lived experiences, a journey of self-reinvention, and a bold expression of identity. Each band member's journey of recovery has led them to a shared artistic collaboration.
Throughout the episode, we also explore the idea of embracing life's timing and purpose. Drawing on personal stories and moving quotes, Mikey reminds us that resilience, growth, and the pursuit of passion are timeless. Our discussion highlights the magic of spontaneous songwriting, the thrill of live performances where raw emotion turns into melodies, and the boundless joy that music can bring to listeners of all ages.
Join us for a soul-stirring conversation, where music meets vulnerability, and healing emerges through self-expression. Whether you're an artist, a music lover, or someone searching for purpose, this episode will leave you inspired by the transformative power of relationships, resilience, and the unifying force of music.
In part 1, you will hear clips:
-10-9-8 (Apostle Jones- Featuring solos by Honey Monai and Mikey Silas with words by Love Freely)
-This Little Light of Mine sung by Love Freely (Winterfest 2024)
-Solo by Michael Haburay/Apostle Jones does AC/DC "What Do You Do for Money Honey?" (Live at the Beachland Ballroom) 1/26/24
-Turn it Up (Apostle Jones)
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"From Orphanage to Olympic Strength Part 2" continues Jon Hair's remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a celebrated artist and musician. Growing up in an orphanage and living in a basement with his six siblings, Jon faced significant hardships. Yet, through creativity, hard work, and the support of his second wife, he transformed these adversities into incredible achievements.
In this episode, Jon discusses how art became a powerful force in his life. With over 170 public art commissions, he has sculpted iconic figures like President Obama, Mr. Rogers, Richard T. Greener, and Frederick Douglass. His works are cherished on college campuses and around the world, including pieces in Beijing, Shanghai, and the Emmys Hall of Fame. As the Official Olympic Sculptor, he created the masterpiece "Olympic Strength," a testament to his passion and the joy his art brings to many.
The episode also highlights Jon's early development of inner strength. At just nine years old, he learned to think creatively and hustle for what he wanted, selling sandwiches and repainting signs to earn money. His determination took him from Miami to San Francisco, where he thrived as both an artist and a drummer, eventually sharing the stage with big names and sculpting his way to greatness.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and proof that with determination and perseverance, overcoming adversity is not only possible but can lead to extraordinary success.
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Join Ann as she sits down with Jon Hair, a sculptor with a portfolio that includes prestigious commissions for the US Olympic Committee and the US Air Force Academy and the Emmy Hall of Fame. Jon has had 170 public art commissions including Shanghai and Beijing. He has sculpted public figures such as Mr. Rogers, Frederick Douglas, Richard T. Greener, President Obama, Rosa Parks and many more. He has also sculpted the famous Olympic Strength.
Listen to part one as Jon shares his experiences as a well-known drummer who played with people like Hendrix, Little Richard and even spent time with Simon and Garfunkle and others.
This is a story from orphanage to Jon's inspiring journey filled with resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to creating lasting art.
Reflect on how Jon transitioned unexpectedly from a successful advertising career to becoming a renowned sculptor, and his philosophy on the importance of figurative art in a world that often favors abstract concepts. This episode provides a deep dive into Jon's artistic process, his thoughts on the competitive nature of art commissions, and his relentless pursuit of creating impactful and meaningful sculptures.
We also explore Jon's personal story of overcoming significant hardships, from growing up in an orphanage to celebrating 48 years of a supportive marriage. His journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of hard work, family values, and the joy of creating art that uplifts and inspires. Concluding part one of Jon Hair's story, this episode highlights the importance of resilience and determination, promising more incredible insights in part two. Don't miss this captivating conversation that underscores the profound impact of art and the indomitable human spirit.
See Jon's works of art: Jonhair.com
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Ann takes you on a personal journey on reaching success with autism and trauma just by showing up.
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How can one person help to transform community institutions, or inspire a youth movement with creative programs? Join us on Real Talk with Tina and Ann as Ann sits down with the phenomenal Miss Betty Smith, whose journey of resilience and boundless energy will leave you in awe. Betty's story is a testament of what the power of imagination, the belief in our young people and community spirit can do.
Betty's remarkable journey took a pivotal turn when she moved to Chicago at 18 which led her to spearheading numerous programs for children, senior citizens, and women battling addiction. Her work didn’t stop there—Betty's tenure at Catholic Charities saw the creation of impactful community initiatives and a large-scale employment program, even catching the attention of Oprah Winfrey's office. Her collaborations with public figures like Dolores Jordan and Halle Berry underscore her far-reaching influence.
But Betty’s impact extends beyond Chicago. In Canton, Ohio, she founded the Enrichment Arts Education Center, providing life skills and creative outlets for the youth. We learn about this model program and all that it offers Canton's youth. Miss Betty continues to empower young people, offering them meaningful alternatives to negative paths. Through heartfelt stories and transformative initiatives, Betty's unwavering commitment to community development and youth empowerment shines brilliantly, offering lessons in resilience, teamwork, and the true essence of giving back.
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Have you ever been controlled by fear that it felt like a physical barrier, preventing you from becoming who you were meant to be? We discuss some of our fears and our freedoms and the importance of not letting fear silence our voices.
We also explore the profound impact of trauma and how it stifles personal growth and creativity. From lost childhood dreams this episode is a heartfelt exploration of shedding the masks we wear to conceal our true selves. We'll discuss the critical need to nurture children’s potential, the concept of "failure to thrive," and the resilience required to overcome these barriers. Concluding with reflections on resilience and the journey towards self-expression, we aim to inspire others to find their courage and stay motivated by their personal missions. Join us as we navigate these emotional landscapes and share stories of overcoming and thriving.
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When you live in fear people do not get to see who you really are. A beautiful, daring, caring, loving, dream-seeker person is hidden behind that mask. let's talk about the courage of breaking from that mask.
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Ever wondered how a seemingly minor incident can trigger a cascade of deep-seated fears and past traumas? Join us on Real Talk with Tina and Ann as they discuss how everyday moments can trigger an irrational fear response, uncovering the layers of stress and anxiety that come with it. Through Tina and Ann's stories, we unravel the complexities of rational and irrational fears and discuss therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) that help manage these overwhelming reactions. Ann also reflects on the dual nature of fear and the power of trust, citing an inspiring quote from her favorite singer, Pink, about facing fears head-on.
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Listen to Part 2 Of When Grief gets Real as Tina and Ann have a heartfelt exploration on this profound emotion. Through these poignant narratives, we emphasize the weight of love and the emotional challenges faced when saying goodbye to those who mean the most to us. We discuss the saying, 'The only way to go through grief is to grieve,' and we stress the importance of being present and authentic in our grief.
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Tina and Ann talk about the heartbreaking topic of loss, but the episode is also very empowering and gives helps and resources. They uncover small comforts that help mend broken hearts. They discuss the symbol and solace that cardinals have and unique ways to memorialize.
the pair end part 1 with a beautiful quote by Earl Grollman, reminding us that grief is not just pain but a profound testament to love.
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Inspired by Dr. Jennifer Heisz's book "Move the Body, Heal the Mind," we discuss how physical activity can be a powerful antidote to anxiety and depression Stories of remarkable persistence, like Bob Goff's relentless pursuit of his law school dreams, illustrate the importance of pushing past mental or physical blocks—whether rooted in fear, trauma, or past experiences.
The duo shares how they do not hear the word 'no' and just continue on their journey. Do you want excuses to be your path and allow life's blocks allow you to stop pursuing your dream or do you want to figure out another way there.
Through a heartfelt narrative, Ann shares the poignant experience of reconnecting with her brother Keith, only to face the heartbreak of his final words and the complexity of his passing. This chapter explores the yearning for deeper connections and how even indirect forms of validation, like Keith’s regular listenership to our podcast, can bring comfort. We reflect on our unique bond, the challenges of dealing with death, and the treasured memories that keep loved ones present in our lives. Join us for an episode filled with raw emotion, practical advice, and a reminder of the strength found in small, consistent steps forward.
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A cat who sits on a hot stove won't do it again, but it won't sit on a cold one either. How many times have you gotten a negative response when living life?
Vince Lombardi said, "Chase perfection knowing we won't catch it, but we will catch excellence.
Imperfect Progress is still progress. (Lisa Turnquist)
Remind yourself, your best is enough. Giving 100% of what you have to give will always be enough. (Tina)
The pair talk visualization and reaching your goal one step at a time. You can make Excuses or you can make adjustments.
Ann shares a story that changed her entire perspective on failure.
Sitting leads to more stagnation.
Movement leads to more movement.
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Ann remembers her brother who passed away this week. He had just sent her a very special message before his death. Listen as Ann shares what that was and her message back to him. This episode is dedicated to him.
Tina and Ann are rerunning this episode on Overcoming and Resilience because of Keith's message to Ann.
Thank you so much for listening. We have hit over 575,000 listeners on the radio and podcast. We are very grateful for everyone who shares in this journey with us.
Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly conquer your fears and step out of your comfort zone? In our "Conquer With Purpose" chapter, we dive into the transformative power of adventure and self-discovery. Drawing inspiration from the movie "Facing the Giants," we explore the importance of understanding oneself, especially as a highly sensitive person, and the necessity of positive self-talk. We reflect on personal experiences and the profound self-discovery that comes from pushing past our limits. This is a reminder that true success often lies just beyond our fears and doubts.
Lastly, we explore the themes of overcoming trauma and silencing the inner critic in "Overcoming Inner Critic and Trauma." Tina shares her experiences with Internal Family Systems therapy and her battle with the inner critic, while Anne reveals her own challenges and triumphs. We discuss how facing obstacles head-on can lead to growth and personal happiness. As we wrap up, we express our gratitude to our listeners and share our excitement for upcoming episodes, sending our love and good wishes to Tina on her journey. Tune in for a heartfelt and inspiring episode that honors the past, embraces the present, and looks forward to the future.
If you missed part 1. you can reach the entire episode here Directing your life: When your story ends, did your script and cast meet your expectations? (realtalktinaann.com). It is a must listen. You can also watch the complete episode by clicking the above link.
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This episode is part, inspired by an amazing podcast by Jeff Lewis with Dr. Donna Dannenfelser. Dr. Donna was a counselor to the NY Jets who knew nothing about football. She knew it was going to happen, and she made it happen. If we do not want to derail, we have to be the conductor of our own train.
Listen as Tina and Ann discuss each car and how they feel about the purpose each car has in our lives as they help create a very detailed visual.
Do you want to live in the caboose looking at your past, the baggage car where you can decide what baggage you would like to leave behind ortake with you? Who do you want to be on this journey with you?
If you missed part 1. you can reach the entire episode here Directing your life: When your story ends, did your script and cast meet your expectations? (realtalktinaann.com). It is a must listen. You can also watch the complete episode by clicking the above link.
Catch all of our episodes on Real Talk with Tina and Ann (realtalktinaann.com)
You can also catch us on facebook. Realk Talk with Tina and Ann. Please join our page and jump on this journey we call life, with us.
You can listen to us on WDJYFM.com every Sunday morning from 11am-12pm. You can catch us in Colorado and in San Fransico TV.
You can listen to us anywhere you get your podcasts.
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This episode is inspired by a Jeff Lewis podcast episode featuring Dr. Donna Dannenfelser, who impressively transitioned from knowing absolutely nothing about football to a counselor for the New York through a mix of humor and heartfelt stories, the pair place their lives on a stage. We each write the scripts for our lives and cast the people in our play. Did each person play the role they were assigned? Did our script go according to plan? We are the directors of our play. Do we have more responsibility for the parts people play in our life? If we are exactly where we are supposed to be in life, why do we focus on the things or people who are not there.
They also discuss their life in a train analogy. You will hear Tina and Ann's take of how each train car has a role in our life and if we are willing to leave our baggage in the baggage car and leave our past in the caboose. Part 2 will discuss more on this subject.
Tina shares her wisdom on how she believes there are times to be wounded and give yourself time to heal and learn.
The amazing Dr. Donna Dannenfelser, is a counselor from Los Angeles and you can reach her website at The Real Dr. Donna D (therealdrdonnad.com)
The Jeff Lewis podcast can be heard on Siriusxm.
Ann shares a quote from her seven-year-old son on this topic.
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When Thomas Edison created the lightbulb, he gave the only functional lightbulb to a boy in the workshop. This story will offer you a different perspective not only in how to treat others, but yourself. This episode helps to challenge our thought patterns and inspires to break through some of life's biggest challenges.
What if someone believed in you that much or if you believed in yourself that much? What if you believed you have purpose, and nothing can hold you back.? What if you made yourself go through the hardest obstacles when you think you can't?
Edison was considered ADHD, deaf, didn't speak before the age of 4 and was more than likely autistic. Tina and Ann's conversation also touches on the remarkable friendships and pioneering spirits of historical figures like Edison, Ford and Lindbergh. They also discussed Bob Goff's book, 'Love Does' and his stories of just wanting to be a part of something.
We discuss how facing challenges head-on can lead to unexpected successes and profound personal growth. Learn how Edison's relentless pursuit of innovation exemplifies the power of learning from mistakes and reshaping thought patterns.
Finally, we delve into the transformative power of positive thinking and manifestation.
We discuss how a positive mindset can shape our reality. We share motivational quotes and personal experiences.
Join us on Real Talk with Tina and Anne for a heartfelt discussion that will leave you encouraged to keep pushing forward, no matter what obstacles come your way.
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Everything is found on the other side. This episode is such an uplifting episode, you will want to conquer the world and all your hurdles in your life by the time part 1 is finished. Ann shares her very empowering stories of how she actually taught her brain how to learn. They thought she would not be able to ride a bike because of her spatial sense and she taught herself how to ride a unicycle in a parade. They thought she would not hit a ball because of her eyes did not converge, but she hit homeruns. Ann took her diagnosis of autism into being a conversationalist. The stories go on and on as the pair discuss how change is action and if you are in the same place in three months, the only question is why.
Thomas Edison took 10,000 tries to find the functional lightbulb. He said, "I have not failed, I just learned 10,000 ways it did not work."
You have that power, too. Join Tina and Ann in this amazing episode. Let's take this journey together and find the courage to turn pain into purpose and hope into action.
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Do past mistakes decide the love you should receive? Are we conditioned to accept less than we deserve due to our history? Can a person be tainted according to their family tree? Is there anything that disqualifies you from love or feeling worthy?
Consider this Jacob Brown quote. YOU are who you're bloodline was waiting for.
Quote: When everyone seems to be getting a miracle but you, you ARE the Miracle.
Beth Moore.
This episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann promises a deep dive into the heart of this question as they discuss personal stories on guilt, grace and self-worth.
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What if we have a blemish in our life? What if we have done something that we feel is so horrific that we allow other's to treat us badly? What if we feel that we do not deserve good?
What if you flip that and realize that even if your parents and their parents had a lifetime of bad choices, that you look in the mirror and say, "I am the one who my bloodline has been waiting for?! (quote by Jacob Brown)
What if you do not love yourself enough? What if you can't forgive yourself to receive good?
What if you ponder the question, everyone is here for a purpose? Do you think God loves you more or less depending on your behaviors?
What if everyone is getting a miracle, but you. Do you think you can look inward and give yourself permission to realize that YOU might just be the miracle? (Quote by Beth Moore)
This episode surrounds the topic of worth and the realization of having allowed people to treat us badly for years. Why do we stop short of demanding respect from even the people we love? Why do we stay with people who do not treat us with the worth that we deserve?
Should we allow our wrongdoings to dictate how we feel about our own worth? Because we have done something wrong in our past, do we deserve what is 'coming to us?'
There is a woman in. Luke 7, in the Bible that was known as a sinner. She was crying at Jesus' feet and He accepted her where she was while the church leaders talked about her sins. What if she would have heard them and thought, 'they are right. I am not worth anything. I deserve to not be loved. I deserve to not have any worth. I have done bad things.'
How do we turn that guilt that lives within ourselves around and allow love, kindness, and respect, in; no matter the guilt that overshadows us.
We wrap up with an uplifting look at how affirming our self-love can be a game-changer to squelch inner and outward negativity.
Join us for a candid discussion on embracing our worth and learning to rise above life's challenges with grace and self-respect.
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Every time we step into the recording studio, we carry with us the stories of those we've met in the most unexpected places—like the battered woman's shelter where Ann once worked or the shadowed hallways of the courthouse where Tina and Ann witnessed the heartbreak of a murder trial. These experiences, though not their own, have left an indelible mark on their psyche, and today we shed light on the pervasive yet seldom-discussed phenomenon of secondary trauma. We navigate the complex terrain of absorbing the pain of others, from the silent struggles behind closed doors to the glaring headlines that shape our world.
Our conversation is not for the faint of heart; it is an honest foray into the often invisible emotional toll taken on those who bear witness to the suffering of others—like friends, nurses, counselors, social workers, police, firefighters, and journalists. We share personal anecdotes and professional insights, unraveling the INVOLUNTARY process of internalizing trauma and the profound empathy in our bonds with survivors. Yet, with this vulnerability comes the realization of the need for boundaries and self-care, a delicate dance that many in helping professions must master to preserve their emotional health amidst the storm of human hardship.
As we wrap up our heart-to-heart, the focus shifts to the societal ripple effects of traumatic events—be it the generational echoes of COVID-19 on our children, the haunting memories of 9/11, or the chilling normalcy of school lockdown drills. But even as we confront these harrowing truths, there remains a thread of optimism, a belief in the goodness that persists in people and the world. Listeners, you're invited to join us on this journey, to find the courage to acknowledge secondary trauma and discover the pathways to healing, because sometimes, the most significant steps we take are those that lead us back to ourselves.
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We're all shaped by the moments that challenge us. This is part 2 with musical genius Michael Haburay. This episode begins with Michael and host, Ann, sharing the loss of both of their dad's at a very young age and their paths of self destruction and rebellion.
The duo share what it took to get into treatment and to turn their lives around. Tough life experiences bring you to a fork in the road. Mike had watched his dad die from alcoholism and he decided to take a different path. We all have choices to help us out of our own self-destruction. Michael and Ann found their way out, one step at a time. One moment at a time.
This episode is dedicated to those who have or want to forge new paths. This is not about the darkness; this is a story of of hope and healing. This promises to touch on the resilience required to stare down our demons and choose a different path.
The two talk about their rock bottom, but listen as they celebrate life post-addiction, painted with stories of rediscovery. This promises to leave you with a sense of hope and courage to embrace life's next verse. Rewrite your story. One lyric at a time.
Mike points out how going down a path of self-destruction is just a symptom of an underlying problem and that there is not progress without struggle. Let's listen, overcome and choose a different path, together.
Listen to part 1 of Michael's story and learn about his dad's story, his early years, and what led him to being one of the best guitarists.
You can join us each week anywhere you get your podcasts. You can listen to us every Sunday morning at 11 am on WDJYFM.com out of Atlanta and online. You can also listen to us on Denver’s radio station 92.9 and 89.3. You can listen online at denver open media.org and you can watch us on San Francisco’s Pacifica Community Television on Comcast Channel 26 and 27 and online at pacific coast tv. You can reach us on facebook at Real Talk with Tina and Ann and you can go catch all of our episodes or message us at realtalktinaann.com. You can catch our monthly newsletters and get special messages.
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From the death of his dad, to the consequences of addiction, Michael took his pain , did a 180 and now reaches the masses. He realized he needed to change when he no longer recognized the man in the mirror and was compromising his moral compass on a regular basis. He sought the help that he needed and is taking his musical talent to stages all over the United States.
Watch a clip of him playing and listen as we discuss the journey that he took from burying the pain that he inevitably needed to face to passing on love to anyone who will listen.
When the chords of life play in unexpected harmony, the result can be transformative. That's the essence of our chat with Michael, who brings not only his incredible musicianship to the table but also his soul-stirring journey of personal triumphs and tribulations. This conversation isn't just about the music; it's about the man behind the guitar, his recent engagement, and the ripple effect of his influence as a teacher.
Mike opens up about the resilience born from loss, the rebellion of his youth, and the path that led him from the shadows of self-destruction to the light of sobriety and self-awareness. This episode is a poignant look into the human spirit's capacity for healing, underscored by the rhythm of music and a relentless quest for personal redemption. Join us as we unravel the transformative power of music in shaping not just a career, but a life filled with purpose and passion.
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Have you ever stood at life's crossroads, weighed down by the what-ifs and should-have-dones? Our latest episode takes you through the twists and turns of life's journey, reflecting on the tough decisions we've all made and the lingering sting of regret. We navigate the bittersweet paths of past choices, like the heartache of not saying goodbye to an old friend or letting go of a childhood home, and how these moments shape the fabric of our existence.
As we traverse through memories and musings, we also find solace in the embrace of nature—whether marveling at the awe of a solar eclipse or finding tranquility amidst Shenandoah's peaks. We share stories of recharging our spirits in the great outdoors and how collective experiences, like the unity felt during an eclipse or a global event, can bridge our differences and heal old wounds.
Concluding with a promise to live intentionally, we confront the bittersweet reality of time's fleeting nature. We talk about the raw urgency to cherish every moment with our loved ones, the importance of nurturing children's self-esteem, and the wisdom we hope to pass on. Our candid conversation aims to inspire you to vocalize affirmations, find motivation in the pursuit of health and well-being, and to welcome life's inevitable changes with open arms. Join us as we commit to a life of purpose, free of regrets, and rich with the bonds of family and friendship.
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As Viola Davis once eloquently captured, life's akin to a relay race where we pass the baton between our past, present, and future selves. In this heart-to-heart session, we unpack this powerful metaphor, discussing how our history can tether us down and exploring the liberation that comes with confronting childhood trauma. Through personal tales we reveal the delicate art of glancing backward without stumbling, encouraging you on your path toward healing and discovery.
Embrace the challenge of standing back up when life knocks you down. We delve into the triggers that unexpected present-day events can set off and the fortitude needed to face them head-on. We reflect on the importance of turning reflections of our past into the fuel that propels us forward.
Normally when we run a race, we feel weaker, but we talk about how we feel stronger as we pass the baton to move on, in life. We have to take a glimpse back to see where we've been in order to grab that baton and move forward. The pair discuss, Viola Davis' quote that she had stopped with success and not significance.
Finally, we draw inspiration from Denzel Washington's concept of "falling forward," emphasizing the growth that comes through adversity. Join us as we navigate the journey of self-acceptance and capture the essence of what it means to triumph over life's hurdles.
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Navigating daily life can be a labyrinth, especially when you see the world through the unique prism of autism. On our latest episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, we're joined by Ann herself, who not only lives with autism but is also the mother to three autistic children. She opens up about the silent battles in classrooms and the victories won through self-advocacy, sharing a perspective that's as enlightening as it is deeply personal. As we traverse from the challenges that come with 'masking' to the art of communication—whether it be through spoken words or the profound silence of a non-verbal child—Ann's stories are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the autistic community.
This is not just another conversation; it's an intimate journey that spotlights the often-overlooked subtleties of autism in social and work settings. Ann provides a candid look at the practicalities of life on the spectrum, from strategically selecting a seat to the complexities of requesting workplace accommodations. The dialogue is rich with strategies for effective communication and living authentically in a world that's learning to embrace neurodiversity. Join us and be part of a discussion that doesn't just celebrate the unique talents of autistic individuals but also arms them—and those around them—with the understanding necessary to help them thrive.
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This week's episode has never gone this deep before. Ann shares things she has never shared in this raw, unfiltered depiction of why she believes we survive the unthinkable. She shares why she dropped to the floor and found herself in a ball on the floor unable to get up. She finally found it within herself to get up and move, but what put her there and what helped her realize that she was able to rise up and be stronger than the pain.
This episode takes you on a journey through the valleys of personal adversity, where the strength to rise again is not just possible but an inevitable part of the human experience. Tina shares some of her very personal experiences and talks about a quote that deeply touched her and why she realized that one can only survive without hope for three months.
The goal is to move forward and realize why you survived through. Pain is movement (Ann) and there is no time stamp on pain. (Dawn Serra)
You will hear how strength often emerges from the darkest moments. Tina's reflection on the importance of hope underscores the essential role it plays in our ability to endure and overcome challenges.
This is an episode of empowerment and purpose and renewal.
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PacificCoastTV link is http://pacificcoast.tv/video/the-world-through-trauma-s-eyes?fbclid=IwAR1nQmmdp30K5eVgRzk4Eksn6fhQyKQ54bQzgj8_HPTYZBdMchS2TJ7UCvM,
and a future Colorado station.
We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
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As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of Kurt Cobain's untimely departure, we find ourselves discussing the impact music makes in our lives. Tina and Ann discuss healing through music, a collective cry as many find their voice in the gritty anthems of a generation. Th pair talk about the artists who've given voice to their deepest struggles and how they have been helped through music.
Tina and Ann invite you to a space where they share personal encounters of solace and healing in the music that has soundtracked the highs and lows of their lives, recognizing the irreplaceable role these cultural icons have played in their collective journey.
The melodies that resonate with us tell a story far beyond their lyrics, often becoming enmeshed with our most pivotal memories. In this heartfelt dialogue, we reflect on how the simple act of listening can transport us back in time, reawakening emotions we thought were long since laid to rest. We discuss the importance of understanding the deeper narratives woven into the songs we hold dear, as we encourage you to unearth the tales behind your own cherished melodies. Join us on 'Real Talk with Tina and Ann' for an episode that promises to be as much a tribute as it is a testament to the transformative power of music in shaping our emotions, memories, and the very essence of our being.
Many artists and songs are mentioned during the podcast. All are cited and honored with how they have changed our lives.
Life Magazine is cited.
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PacificCoastTV link is http://pacificcoast.tv/video/the-world-through-trauma-s-eyes?fbclid=IwAR1nQmmdp30K5eVgRzk4Eksn6fhQyKQ54bQzgj8_HPTYZBdMchS2TJ7UCvM,
and a future Colorado station.
We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
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This week's episode is a reminder to look past the 'attention-seeking' behavior and look at it as connection seeking. This episode is for anyone who has had someone change the trajectory of their life with a simple act of kindness or if you have done this for someone else.
Join us (Ann and guest host Denise Bard) as we embrace the fact that our past gives us the wisdom we need to equip us to shine in the future.
Denise Bard and her new book 30-second Moments and the Women Who Raised Me.
We are on anywhere you get your podcasts and...
Real Talk with Tina and Ann are now on WDJYFM.com,
You can watch us on PacificCoastTV . link is We are on anywhere you get your podcasts and...
Real Talk with Tina and Ann are now on WDJYFM.com,
PacificCoastTV link is
http://pacificcoast.tv/video/the-world-through-trauma-s-eyes?fbclid=IwAR1kdNbaqDJNokd4z_-LdpnKM_9mgr4Qi1-HCwolUYkfLtJnSMOUfVSyhvI
Colorado radio station is coming soon. We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
and a future Colorado station.
We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
We are on anywhere you get your podcasts
Follow us on Tina and Ann's website https://www.realtalktinaann.com/ Facebook: Real Talk with Tina and Ann | Facebook
or at: podcastrealtalktinaann@gmail.com or annied643@gmail.com
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Real Talk with Tina and Ann are now on WDJYFM.com,
PacificCoastTV link is http://pacificcoast.tv/video/the-world-through-trauma-s-eyes?fbclid=IwAR1nQmmdp30K5eVgRzk4Eksn6fhQyKQ54bQzgj8_HPTYZBdMchS2TJ7UCvM,
and a future Colorado station.
We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
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This episode was inspired by a statement made in Kara Swisher's recent book, The Burn Book. Tina and Ann discuss how Trauma changed them for...wait for it...the better? How can that happen. Well, trauma is not what made them better, but their strength, determination and resilience changed trauma's path.
The two discuss how their trauma actually made them stronger and more determined. Ann realized that her creativity was born in the pain and isolation of her bedroom.. Tina learned how to hyperfocus to get through and overcome.
They two learned how that simple is good, family is everything and how to break the cycle. Ann learned one of life's most important lessons that got her through.
Join this twisty, curvy podcast and learn more of how Trauma shaped them and how they rose above their circumstances.
The Book A Loss that Lasts Forever by Kara Swisher is mentioned
The Sinful Woman by Ann Kagarise is mentioned
A quote was used by William Martin from The Parent's Tao Te Ching
Quote: There is no timestamp on trauma. There isn't a formula that you can insert yourself into to get from horror to healed. Be patient. Take up space. Let your journey be the balm." Dawn Serra
A quote by Plutarch: "What we change inwardly will change outer reality.
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PacificCoastTV link is http://pacificcoast.tv/video/the-world-through-trauma-s-eyes?fbclid=IwAR1nQmmdp30K5eVgRzk4Eksn6fhQyKQ54bQzgj8_HPTYZBdMchS2TJ7UCvM,
and a future Colorado station.
We are very thankful and blessed for our continual growth. Thank you to all of our listeners and now watchers.
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When the ground beneath you shakes, trust can crumble into dust. That's the stark reality for many who've walked through the storm of trauma, a journey Tina and Ann understand all too well. Do we keep up our walls, open a window, or build a bridge of trust. Our intimate stories serve as beacons for those navigating the murky waters of skepticism, where accepting a compliment or a hand extended in kindness becomes an act of bravery. Throughout this raw and revealing episode, we discuss transforming barriers into connection, while never losing sight of the need for safety.
As we wade deeper into the conversation, the ghosts of generational trauma emerge, challenging us to sever the chains of the past. We examine how personal healing is not just a solitary endeavor but a communal crusade to prevent the cycle from continuing. It's a testament to the quiet power of patience and understanding in fostering bonds of trust that can survive the test of time.
Psychology Today is referenced.
Trauma, Trust, and Time | Psychology Today
Quotes: "Not let someone else's chaos dictate me." Tina
"The trauma isn't our fault, but it's our responsibility to heal it."
"Sometimes change happens slowly, but that's ok because direction is more important than speed."
"If someone is poking you where you hurt, they don't deserve to be in your life." Ann
"Losing trust in self can lead to hopelessness."
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Every year, as the calendar circles back to the day we said goodbye to a loss, we find solace in the small rituals we've created to honor memories. Today's episode is a tender exploration of how we navigate the poignant anniversaries of loss—be it a loved one's passing, a divorce, or any pivotal goodbye. Together,, we share stories close to the heart, like enveloping ourselves in the comfort of a departed mother's favorite TV shows and the emotions that surge on a final outing that becomes a cherished memory. We also discuss the diverse traditions people embrace, from savoring a favorite meal to the release of butterflies, each a testament to the enduring bond with those we've lost.
As we clutch the keepsakes that tether us to the past, we embark on a journey through the landscape of loss and the memories that accompany it. Our conversation traverses the emotional significance of these mementos and the myriad ways they can catapult us through time to relive both joyous and sorrowful moments. , We address the complexity of grief, underscoring the need for support as we face those anniversaries that inevitably return us to the age and circumstance of our heartache. This episode is an intimate look at the myriad faces of grief, the regrets and misconceptions surrounding the decline of a loved one, and the invisible pain of missing shared moments due to illness, all while maintaining a facade of normality. Join us in this heartfelt dialogue as we acknowledge the silent struggles and celebrate the memories that shape our stories of loss.
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Tina and Ann get nostalgic in the complex tapestry of emotions that anniversaries weave into our lives. We unfurl the delicate threads of joy, heartache with reconciling past grievances with love and understanding. It's a journey through the winding roads of grief, where sorrow and celebration often hold hands.
The dialogue ventures into the realm of bittersweet realizations, recognizing the absence of loved ones in future triumphs and the heavy weight of 'unfinished business' that lingers after their departure. We also share the treasures that keep the essence of those lost, like cherished keepsakes and recorded voices, close to our hearts. Our conversation is a testament to the complex dance of memories, the solace found in the company of friends, and the solitary moments of reflection that anniversaries bring.
Join us as we navigate this multifaceted emotional landscape together, finding unity in the shared experience of remembrance and loss.
We ask you to check out Denise Bard's new book, 30-second moments and the Women Who Raised me on Amazon. Denise is a permanent guest host on Real Talk with Tina and Ann and we are so proud of her!!
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As Ann and Charde Young ( Love Freely) wrap up this three-part series, they continue their conversation on doing it afraid and the beautifulness of being vulnerable. They inspire many as they talk family secrets, betrayal, their search for self-acceptance and how affirmations guide them toward self-love as they try to light the path for others.
The two discuss how their creative sides can touch more than a canvas or a page, but it can also brush the human heart.
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A personal message from Ann. She gets personal and candid after reading Mariska Hargitay's (Olivia Benson from SVU) article in People Magazine and saw her interview on the Today Show. Ann gets honest and talks about Mariska's situation and how to take pain and turn it into helping others. She discusses showing your true self, scars and all. S
Having been a director at a battered woman's shelter and a rape crisis hotline, Ann delves into the often-misunderstood response of freezing during an assault and the web of blame and shame that survivors navigate. We stand together with those who have had to face such strength.
The episode touches on abuse with people who have disabilities or pre-existing trauma. Ann talks grooming and how chillingly proficient abusers are in identifying their targets. She discusses the reality of not belng believed by those in trusted, authoritative positions. Her main goal is to bring a voice to survivors.
Ann briefly shares why she has dedicated this episode to her sister and to anyone who has holds the weight of unspoken secrets.
You don't have to suffer by yourself or in silence.
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Vulnerability equals strength. Authentic, emotional bravery vs. societal pressures of concealment. Charde Young, also known as Love Freely, as we discuss how our toughest moments can lead us to profound growth and authenticity fosters genuine connections.
Destiny vs. Choice. Was your path chosen for you or do you choose your path. Can we find life's purpose amidst the chaos. Charde and Ann discuss the lives that were given them and the paths that they chose to change their trajectory.
The two discuss the narratives that we inherit and the ones we write for ourselves. They get pretty personal as they unlock their diaries so they can rewrite their stories.
Join us for this intimate exchange where the personal becomes universal and self-discovery becomes a transformation.
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In this episode of Real Talk with Tina and Ann, Ann interviews Charde young who is also known as Love Freely, on stage. Charde is in several bands. She is one of the singers in Apostle Jones, a band that has been named, Best Band in Cleveland, Ohio. She has two of her own bands, Mixed Feelings and New Vibe. She also has performed with Tropidelic. She has been on stage, live painting with Gladys Knight's drummer, Eljah Gilmore, while he performed. She is also a teacher. She is one busy lady who is making a difference in the world. Her entire purpose is to touch lives, to inspire and to remind people that they matter and are loved. The entire podcast centers around Doing it Afraid. Everything is found on the other side of fear. We talk about doing it with Shame and we discuss how you are not our circumstances. I would say her mantra would be, I am not confident, I am courageous. Often times, we do not know what we are doing, but we keep doing it. lol. Give yourself permission to succeed.
Imagine standing at the edge of your fear with the nudge to fly. This episode is about embracing that leap, despite the fear that tries to control us. We share intimate conversations about the hurdles of stage fright, the courage to confront personal fears, and the liberation found when asking ourselves, "What would you do if you weren't scared?" Through Charde's story of self-discovery with herself and her bands, we celebrate the strength that comes from stepping outside comfort zones, proving that growth often requires a dance with fear.
Acts of kindness can be both simple and revolutionary. We delve into the heartwarming power of a touch, a hug, or words of encouragement and their ability to lift spirits and change lives. Addressing the significance of making others feel seen and valued, we share personal stories that underscore the transformative effects of kindness, the importance of community, and how vulnerability can be a source of strength. Charde Young leaves us with a promise to two more episodes in this three-part series. We cannot wait to listen.
This is the beginning of our second season.
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When our own childhood traumas resurface in the role of a parent, the journey takes on a deeper significance. In the intimate space of this episode, Ann shares the story of her son's struggle at school, an ordeal that brought forth her buried yearnings for protection and understanding. This isn't just a narrative about the challenges we face; it's a celebration of the unbreakable bonds we form with our children.
The dance of affection within our families can be tricky, especially for those with past traumas. . We discuss communication, self-forgiveness, and the individual needs of each family member.
Finally, we turn to the frontlines of parenting—the advocacy for our children's emotional well-being within the school system. Ann gets personal about the difficult choices made to defend her son's happiness and zest for learning. As we unpack the distressing incident with his teacher, we highlight the power of trusting our parental instincts. This episode is for every parent who's ever fought for their child's well-being and also had abuse, themselves.
I mistakenly state that it is our 51st episode. Well this had been a 3 part series, but we are ending this on our 52nd episode which means the end to this first season. Next week, will be the first episode of our second exciting season. Thank you so much!
I apologize for some noise, at times, in this episode. But lol, we got a lot of it removed, but some of it would not GO lol. It is Ann's kids playing on holiday break. So, we just go with it. Flaws and all. lol Thanks for listening!
Quotes used in the episode:
- “Let us reach out to the children. Let us do whatever we can to support their fight to rise above their pain and suffering.” - Nelson Mandela
- “We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today.” - Stacia Tauscher
- “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” - Frederick Douglass
- “Children need models rather than critics.” - Joseph Joubert
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Embarking on a journey through the trials of motherhood and the quest for personal growth, We discuss profound ways our own upbringing shaped our approach to raising our children. With raw honesty, we share the pivotal transformation we underwent to provide our kids with what we never had—a cycle of nurturance over abuse. Every parent faces unique hurdles. We confront the delicate balance of discipline and communication, and how we evolved from a place of anger to one of calmness and constructive dialogue. This episode is a testament to the power of self-awareness and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement on the path to becoming the parent our children deserve.
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When the echoes of our past traumas surface as we navigate the waters of parenthood, the journey can be complex. Denise and Ann open up about the raw, emotional challenges they've faced in an attempt to parent effectively without their fears and experiences overshadowing our children's growth. From confronting the specter of inappropriate behavior to instilling the principles of consent and personal boundaries, we traverse the thin line that separates vigilance from overprotection. Our candid stories shed light on the complexities of safeguarding our kids while not encasing them in our shadows.
As we unpack the impact of our own traumas on the way we raise our little ones, you'll hear about some of our own encounters. We also tackle the oft-avoided topic of abuse, discussing how to break the silence and educate our kids on right and wrong touches, particularly with regard to children who perceive the world differently, like those on the autism spectrum. Denise shares her insight on negotiating the minefield of age-appropriate conversations and handling situations where boundaries may inadvertently be crossed. Together, we offer an unguarded look into the heart of parenting through trauma, hoping to empower other parents grappling with similar battles.
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When the heartache of loss intertwines with the courage to embark on new beginnings, we find ourselves at life's most pivotal crossroads. While we have moments of sorrow, we find strength at the dawn of new chapters.
Navigating the complexities of life doesn't come without its trials. Our conversation weaves through what shapes our journey, confronting fear, Each new chapter brings a new path, individuality, highlighting how every decision and experience polishes our readiness to grasp what life has to offer.
We peel back the layers of unworthiness and trauma and find solace in the wisdom of "The Velveteen Rabbit," we embrace the process of becoming 'real." This episode isn't just a story; it's an invitation to join in recognizing the strength drawn from becoming our truest selves.
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Our latest episode offers an intimate glimpse into the dichotomy of the winter months, from the warm glow of family gatherings to the cold touch of loneliness and loss. We recount our own experiences, and share how the festivities can sometimes deepen the shadows for those grappling with grief , emotional pain or health challenges, With recollections of personal sorrow and family adjustments, we open up a space for understanding and empathy, reaching out to anyone who might be silently aching amidst the holiday cheer.
As the conversation unfolds, we shine a light on the hidden battles many face with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the valuable strategies to combat its gloom. From Tina's personal story with light therapy lamps to CBT Therapy, we offer hope and practical advice for those feeling the winter blues. Our stories extend to the classroom, where we stress the importance of empathy and connection for children facing educational challenges. We call on listeners to take small, meaningful actions that can immensely uplift someone's spirit—not just during the holidays, but all year round.
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Have you ever questioned the saying "God won't give you more than you can handle" and wondered if maybe, just maybe, He does? This deep and meaningful conversation tackles that very thought, highlighting how our trials can draw us closer to Him. We share our journey of understanding trauma as a love language and the unique healing paths we've taken, including supporting our children through equine therapy. We also share a personal encounter with toxicity, underscoring the importance of eliminating harmful influences from our lives.
Trust and empathy: two words that hold immense power in our lives. Reflecting on our personal experiences, we shed light on the immense challenge of trusting others and the critical role a circle of trusted individuals plays. We dissect the damage caused by a lack of empathy, and even delve into the manipulative technique of gaslighting. Wrapping up, we take a moment to appreciate you, our incredible listeners, for your support on our journey and the evolution of our YouTube channel, Everything Spectrum. So, come along and join the conversation – it's deep, it's honest, it's real.
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What goes on in the mind and in the healing when a person walks the same streets where trauma occurred. Returning to these places can trigger positive and negative emotions. Sometimes, revisiting a place tied to distressing memories can help us gain understanding or find a sense of peace. Sometimes it shows how far we have grown since the event occurred. Ann’s visit to her dad’s grave, for the first time after 20 plus years, came when she wanted to share him with her kids.
Denise is working on a book that took her back to her childhood area. She spoke with teachers and was feet away from onf of the home she lived in, with her mom. Listen as the pair discuss how revising places of trauma can impact our lives and possibly bring healing and closure.
**The pair also discuss how trauma impacted major life choices. Ann shares a major decision she made when she was told she could HAVE her childhood home. She shares a hilarious story that reveals another side and also talks about a year that she has never discussed before on the podcast. This episode is very revealing as they reveal how walking the same streets might help find strength for some, while others may need to distance themselves, to heal and grow. Reflecting on our emotions can aid in processing these difficult memories.
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Tina and Ann delve into quotes that have echoed in many hearts and souls. Does God give us more than we can handle? Tina and Ann have a very interesting discussion on these words. This quote-filled episode is carefully guided through the topics of boundaries, healthy healing, healthy grieving, ridding of toxic relationships, the importance of advocating and empowering insights to help carry you through your day.
Do words change our perspective? Does a quote whisper to our soul and understand us, at our depths? Can a quote mean something different to two different people and change meaning through time. Join us as we talk the power of quotes, their personal resonances, and the dual interpretations that Tina and Ann have. Tina has been gone during a difficult time and she shares why she brings these quotes to the episode and Ann discusses quotes she learned from Alcoholics Anonymous and their meaning in her life.
This is a deep dive on a very interesting, thought-provoking topic.
Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
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Holiday Breaks. We're not talking about the joy of time off school, but rather the anxiety and fear that can come with the loss of the safety and support provided by the school environment. Ann and Guest Host Denise share deeply personal experiences to shine a light on this often overlooked aspect of the holiday season.
Our discussions dive deep into the crucial role teachers play during this time, providing a sense of security and positivity for students, particularly those coming from challenging circumstances. For these children, a teacher can unknowingly become a lifeline, providing love, stability and a sense of normalcy that might be lacking at home. A simple act, a moment of positivity, can make a world of difference.
Listen to learn what schools do and can do to help make a hurting child's lifeline feel like a thought away. Ann shares what it was like to help the children whose parents were incarcerated during the holidays and to remember those who are in shelters and not in their normal home environment.
Holiday season can also bring up painful memories and emotions for those who have experienced trauma or come from difficult family situations. Ann and Denise open up about their own struggles of navigating the holidays, the pressure to create new traditions, and the yearning for a sense of belonging. There's power in personal connection, and sometimes, a small act of kindness can mean more than any material gift. Tune in to this episode of Real Talk as they end with a challenge to all.
Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
Follow us on Tina and Ann's website https://www.realtalktinaann.com/ Denise Bard's website: https://denisebard.com/ Facebook: Real Talk with Tina and Ann | Facebook
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Born with a severe Cleft Palate, half a nose and told he would never learn, Dr. Don Bartlette has a story of overcoming and hope. He lived in a small shack in North Dakota. His father left him and his mother because of his disabilities. Don would steal to eat and his best friends were the rats.
"One White Woman," he states, believed in him, changing his life forever. This man who didn't even speak until the age of 12, became valedictorian of his high school and got his doctorate in Special Education to help others. All because one person believed in him.
Left to die by doctors, locked in a janitors closet by his teacher, tied to a tree by peers, this man shares a tear jerking podcast of hope and resilience and how that one woman taught him what a shower was, how to eat, and how to learn.
Listen to his main message of LOVE as he states that Hate can be Overcome by Love. Don talks about his wife, his kids and the house he lives in today. Listen to why he left his political party and his church but still, in spite of it all, has maintain his faith.
This episode reveals racism, judgment, perseverance and love.
The story of his life is chronicled in the book, Macaroni at Midnight.
He also has volunteered for Chick- fil-A for 36 years and is an active volunteer in his community.
Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
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A personal message from Ann. You have to listen to hear it!
Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
Follow us on Tina and Ann's website https://www.realtalktinaann.com/ Denise Bard's website: https://denisebard.com/ Facebook: Real Talk with Tina and Ann | Facebook
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Engage with us as we delve into the human response to trauma, with a focus on the fight or flight response. Guest host Denise Bard and Ann paint vivid pictures of how trauma can manifest in our bodies and our minds. The pair talk ways the body handles stress and includes terms such as dissociation and masking.
The pair also discuss paths to healing.
Forgiving?
Counseling?
Ridding of toxicity?
Everyone's path is different.
This episode gives you a chance to understand not just your own responses, but makes the listener look inward at different ways of handling adversity.
Check out the video portion to this episode at Realtalkwithtinaann.com. Episode Fight or Flight: The Human Response to Trauma.
*This is the first time the podcast is doing a video taping of the show.
Quote:
"Your mind-set is your primary weapon" -Jeff Cooper
.
Sources:
Quote from Maya Angelou is mentioned.
https://www.psychologytools.com/resource/fight-or-flight-response/
https://www.google.com/search?q=what+is+the+difference+between+fight+or+flight&rlz=1C1ONGR_enUS1066US1066&oq=what+is+the+difference+between+fight+or+flight&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOdIBCDg4MzRqMGo3qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-does-fight-flight-freeze-fawn-mean
Quote on animals vs. humans reaction to trauma was from Sciencedaily.com: Sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150611114054.htm#:~:text=Animals%20are%20generally%20able%20to,the%20original%20danger%20or%20trauma." Science Daily.com Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
Follow us on Tina and Ann's website https://www.realtalktinaann.com/ Denise Bard's website: https://denisebard.com/ Facebook: Real Talk with Tina and Ann | Facebook
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Imagine a single moment in your life, one powerful enough to shape your trajectory. This is part 4 of Denise Bard's interview. This is our 40th episode!!!!!! Denise shares how the abuse in her childhood actually made her a better parent and how she touches the lives of teachers today. Ann states that she does not want her children to know what it is like to not belong and tells a story she has never shared before in 40 episodes. All four of these Denise Bard episodes have such valuable nuggets as she points out how everything we say to a child, even a simple, 'miss you,' can make them feel special. Children are individuals and not a group of siblings or a class. They want and need to be seen as one. Help us get the word out about Anchor House in New Jersey and any other shelter or children's home that is making a difference in children's lives. Remember, it only takes one person to make a difference to one child. It only takes one comment to make someone feel special. Thank you for listening.
Share and spread the word about our podcast. We love you and want to do this journey we call life together.
Tell your friends and anyone you can think of that will be benefit from this podcast.
If you would like to contact Denise or book her for a speaking engagement, go to, Denise Bard.com.
If you would like to donate to Anchor House, go to. AnchorHouseNJ.com
Thank you again!
Go to realtalktinaann.com and leave us your email in the contact section and you will get a special message from Ann. Leave us a voicemail on our website and you might end up on our podcast.
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YOU MATTER! Listen as Denise shares her journey of changing her life's narrative, reminding us all of the power of our own voices, even in the face of adversity. Join us as Denise shares how she rewrote her story to one of triumph and resilience and reminds us that faiure is a part of success. She quotes Denzel Washington as he stated, "If I'm going to fail, I'm gonna fall forward." Denise changed her lens. "It's not about changing perspective necessarily but changing what we focus on," Denise states.
We all write our own stories and are not the story we were born into. Every day we have the opportunity to be different, be resilient and be better.
We share the importance of having someone believe in you until you can believe in yourself and one of her most profound points in the episode was regarding the people who even place a negative mark on our heart.
Join us for an episode that will surely inspire, as Denise shares how to move forward regardless of your past.
This episode is a testament to the enormous difference one organization can make and the profound impact of seemingly small moments.
https://anchorhousenj.org/
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This powerful episode is part 2 of Denise Bard's triumphant story. This is proof of how 30 seconds can make a huge difference in someone else's life. Denise shares 3 life-changing moments that gave her something to hold onto to when life was hard . She also talks in depth about the youth shelter that gave her importance and worth. Anchor House, a sanctuary for runaway and homeless youth in Trenton, New Jersey is featured in this episode as Denise recounts the remarkable milestones since its establishment in 1978, and the significant impact it has had on many young lives. From emergency shelter to transitional housing, Anchor house's comprehensive programs have proven to be a beacon of hope.
This episode is a testament to the enormous difference one organization can make and the profound impact of seemingly small moments.
https://anchorhousenj.org/
*Denise has informed me that it started in 1978, not 1987 which was stated in the episode.
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Denise Bard's life story, one marked by struggles and hardships, is a compelling portrayal of the human spirit's capacity to rise above circumstances. This is a must listen as Denise discusses being born from two drug-addicted parents and the physical, mental, and emotional abuse that she endured. Abuse and neglect led her to almost taking her own life, but she chose to live and fight.
Denise attributes her transformation to the intervention and constant support from Anchor House, a shelter for runaway, abused and homeless youth, in New Jersey, that left an indelible mark on her life. The guidance she received from her case manager, Michelle, was instrumental in unshackling her from the cycle of abuse and neglect. Michelle's teachings of resilience and recognizing the value of genuine care, shaped Denise's outlook on life. One hug literally melted the fear she had felt, daily. Today, Denise stands tall, forever guided by these lessons that continue to shape her life journey.
Now, Denise is giving voice to her story, shattering her past's silence and finding empowerment in doing so. A chance encounter with Anchor House during an annual bike ride in her town presented her with an opportunity to share her story publicly. This fortuitous encounter eventually led to her becoming a board member of the non-profit organization that helped save her life. Denise Bard's story serves as an affirmation of the power of resilience, a testament to the transformational effect of positive influence, and a beacon of hope for anyone battling childhood trauma. Join us, as we traverse this journey of resilience, transformation, and hope with Denise Bard and hear how just 30 seconds can change someone for a lifetime.
https://www.anchorhousenj.org/
Give to anchor house in New Jersey and help them, help more youth.
This is part 1. Stay tuned....
Citations:
Good Will Hunting is mentioned
*There was a small clicking sometimes when Denise was speaking that was not in our interview, I have spoken to my recording host as I have not experienced this before. I tried to clean it up best I could, but you can still slightly hear it. My apologies, but it does not take away from her story.
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What is the true opposite of love? Hate or Fear? How does it affect a child when their first emotion is fear and not love?What happens when the very person loving you is the one instilling that fear?We're peeling back the layers on this complex subject, starting with early childhood experiences where fear is instilled by those who should be our protectors. We're talking about the strange paradox of a world that keeps revolving despite personal tragedies and how it feels like we're stuck in time while everything else moves forward.
We're also talking about the power of self-love and self-talk in overcoming fear. Whether it's about giving ourselves the grace to stumble or the pep talk to stand up again, we're sharing our insights on how inner strength can diffuse fear. We're discussing the importance of having trustworthy people around and how they can be either a source of love or an abuser for those who can sense fear. To emphasize this, we talk about Trisha Lott-Williford's upcoming book "You are Safe now: A Survivor’s Guide to Listening to your Gut, Healing from Abuse, and Living in Freedom. April 9, 2024 release date, Co-Written with Jana Richardson.
As we wrap up, we reflect on the healing power of grief, transitioning from momentary pain back to life.
**Citations:
Mentioned in this episode A child called It by David Pelzer
Parent Q app is mentioned
You can find us at Tina and Ann's Podcast website page for this episode: https://www.realtalktinaann.com/fear-and-hate-exploring-the-true-opposite-of-love-and-its-many-layers/ Follow us on Tina and Ann's website http://www.realtalktinaann.com
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What changed your life more? Love or Fear? What is the stronger emotion? If Rock breaks scissors, but paper covers rock, Fear dilutes love, but love melts fear. Let's look at these two emotions, together.
People say that love hurts, but in actuality it is abuse with love that hurts, it is rejection with love that hurts, but love without those things is the purest kind of love.
Fear can intimidate us, pin us into a corner and keep us from being all we were created to be. Tina and Ann delve into the intersection where love and fear collide and how perfect love can extinguish fear.
1 John 4:18, Love is greater than fear. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.
The Broadway Musical, Wicked, is mentioned with Kristin Chenowith and Idina Menzel
The song, For Good is referenced
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This episode is not just a conversation; it’s a celebration of differentness, friendship, and unity in the face of adversity. Ann welcomes special guest, RJ Formanek, the trailblazer behind Flying with Broken Wings and Red Shoes Rock, who has embraced his FASD diagnosis as a power source instead of a limitation. He shares deep incite into what it feels like to get the diagnosis of FASD and likens it to something you have to hear for yourself.
This FASD advocate shares his story of determination, resilience and self-acceptance which led to an upper level degree in FASD. He discusses destigmatizing FASD and how we can normalize people with differences while advocating and shedding the importance of awareness. The pair also explore the differences between the neurotypical and FASD brain development.
Listen to the last episode of a two-part series as Ann and RJ, together, share some personal stories and insights and invite you into the world of neurodivergence.
Flying with Broken Wings on Facebook is mentioned
https://redshoesrock.com/
Jodee Kulp, an FASD educator, is mentioned.
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Imagine having your life shaped by trauma before drawing your first breath. That's the reality for people living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), a misunderstood and stigmatized condition. I had the honor of hosting RJ Formanek, a tireless advocate for people with FASD, who also happens to be a person living with the disorder. Together, we confront the misconceptions about FASD and share our personal experiences to shed light on its profound impact. With September being FASD Awareness month, this is a perfect time to have this discussion.
Wrapping up the conversation, we underscore the crucial role of spreading awareness and education about FASD. Governments, regulatory agencies, and families have a significant role to play in shifting the narrative from blame to understanding. We recognize the pioneering efforts of Brian Philcox, Bonnie Buxton, Teresa Kellerman, and others in raising FASD awareness, and pledge to continue this crucial dialogue. With RJ as Ann's co-pilot, for this episode, they are committed to advocating for FASD through their conversations and the platform, Flying with Broken Wings. Join us in this ongoing, vital conversation to foster a better understanding of FASD and its effects.
Vital links: Flying with Broken Wings on Facebook. Started by R.J. Formanek
Red Shoes Rock is a global awareness. campaign giving voice and. support to those affected by. prenatal alcohol exposure. Building FASD Awareness Through Grassroots Efforts.
https://redshoesrock.com/
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ann's website: Mental Health and Disabilities (annkagarise.com)
Real Talk with Tina and Ann website: Annkagarise - Mental Health, Real Talk With Tina and Ann, Disabilities, Trauma, Healing,
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Tina and Ann continue their discussion on Pain and Joy living together, simultaneously. They do a deep dive on childhood pain and deprivation and how it can continue to impact us, as adults. They look more into the book, The Five Keys to Mindful Loving by David Richo and discuss his beliefs on how our cells are affected in trauma. The duo discusses the courage it takes to confront the fear of change and the paradox of how sometimes remaining stuck feels easier. It's a heart-warming, thought-provoking conversation that we promise will leave you with a renewed sense of empowerment and perhaps, a different outlook on your life journey.
Listen as Tina and Ann get very real in this episode.
Some of this podcast is a discussion from a podcast, Bialik Breakdown by Mayim Bialik and Jonathan Cohen
Episode: Don't Bring Childhood Wounds into Adulthood with David Richo
August 23, 2023, Bialik Breakdown The Book, How to Be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving by David Richo, is mentioned.
Quotes from the podcast, Bialik Breakdown, and the above book: "Everyone you meet, you are meeting everyone who has ever hurt them."
"The deprivation of fulfillment from childhood is recorded in every cell of our bodies."
"All prospects of change, even for the better represent a threat."
"How can you navigate forward when you have to face something so scary?"Bialik Breakdown The book, The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, MD, is mentioned.
Thank you so much for listening. Your support is so very important to us.
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Life is a blend of joy and pain, and this episode is a testament to our belief that these contrasting emotions can coexist. From Tina's recent trip to Hawaii, to breaking the cycle of past pain, we emphasize the importance of simultaneously experiencing life's highs and lows. We discuss how to heal, manage mental health, and break negative cycles. Ann talks about the heartache of raising children with disabilities and shares her son's struggle with DiGeorge Syndrome while Tina shares how she has learned to get through difficult times and gives Ann some great advice. They share insights on encouraging our children to adopt a positive outlook, helping them to look at life differently. So, tune in for a heartening discussion on parenting, adulting, and the power of positivity. Our experiences might not mirror yours, but we hope to provide strategies and insights that might help you navigate your own journey.
Thank you all for listening and your support.
The book, Wonder, by R. J. Palacio is mentioned.
Movie was directed by Stephen Chbosky, 2017.
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Ever grappled with life's rock-bottom moments, only to find an inner strength you never knew existed? This is a common thread in our lives, and in this heartfelt episode, Tina and Ann pull back the curtain on our personal trials and tribulations - from the arduous journey of healing our own life's scars to navigating our children's challenges. We strip away the gloss to reveal the raw realities, exhaustion, and pain that comes with healing and how essential it is to carve out time for self-care in the midst of it all.
Imagine being just 11, facing an event so impactful it imprints on your entire life. This is Ann's reality, and in the second segment of our episode, we lay bare the profound influence of trauma - the fear of success, the ripple effects on those around us, and the complex navigation when there is barely any time to process it. Through our stories, we hope to shed light on the often misunderstood landscape of trauma and how we can stop short of success because of the trauma we have endured in our past.
Healing is the theme that ties the knots of our conversation. We pour out our hearts on the healing journey, embracing compassion, acknowledging the Herculean effort it takes to bring about change, and the importance of gifting time to ourselves in this journey, even when roadblocks appear. Our conversation is an affirmation that it's perfectly okay to feel stuck or frustrated at times, and that healing is indeed a lifelong voyage. So grab your headphones, and let's sail through these winds of challenges together.
Quote; "Most of die before we fully live." Erich Fromm
Quote: If I had to choose between pain and death, I would choose pain." William Faulkner, The Wild Palms
Quote from Tina: "What if we were transparent about our own failures? Not as some kind of performative vulnerability, but as an invitation to collectively de-stigmatize the messy process of lifelong learning. Think about that."
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Join Tina and Ann as they revisit episode one. Tina and Ann's friendship began in the midst of an intense capital murder trial, 15 years ago. Neither of them had covered a story with such intensity. as journalists. This is where the story of their friendship began. They spent 12-hour days together processing and covering a horrifically, sad situation causing a strong bond of personal support and a professional comradery. This episode takes you back to where Tina and Ann began.
They've come a long way since those days, and they reflect on the journey, the bond they've nurtured, and the lessons they've learned. They share their experiences on how friendship has helped anchor them in navigating life's storms.
As they close this chapter, we touch upon the everyday joys and resilience that life offers. They discuss how these elements have the potential to transform ordinary days into extraordinary ones. They hope their journey of connecting people with resources, their struggles, and their triumphs inspire you. As they plan for future episodes, they promise to bring more real talk - on anger, forgiveness, self-care, vulnerability, and more.
Tina and Ann also share a brief interview with an avid listener from Chicago. Ann and Tina realize they are much more than two moms just talking about life. They are sharing things that affect all of us in ways the build bridges and get rid of stigmas.
Real Talk listener, Keith, states, "Even though it seems like everyday stuff, "it's profound."
Join us as we revisit episode one.
Thank you all for listening and your support.
Quote: "The best days and the worst days are only 24 hours. " Tricia Lott Williford
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Can facing difficult situations make us stronger? Can our weaknesses actually become our strengths? Tina says YES! Tina and Ann go head on into healing on this episode as they explore the importance of doing more than just letting the pain in. Forging through, connection with others, letting love in and letting the depths of our pain, heal is where we can fully LIVE! Tina's inner resilience shines above her trials in this episode as she describes what it's like to be on the other side of the brutal, yet awe-inspiring, 22-mile Kalalau Trail. The place where life's most challenging moments can be the place of profound beauty and strength.
Tina discovered a powerful parallel between the hardships of her journey and life's bumps and bends. She shares the raw emotions she penned down during this experience, painting a vivid picture of a path that is stunning, unforgiving, but ultimately, rewarding. Trials are what often shape our character.
This episode is loaded with appreciation of the beauty of connection and overcoming. We'll discuss how embracing our fears, appreciating our loved ones, and relishing in life's moments can lead to a life of purpose, passion, and no regrets. So, buckle up for this heartwarming exploration of life, love, and the journey to self-discovery.
quote : Enjoy this moment even if its not perfect…stay kind even thought you have every reason not to
Second quote: everything needed to happen for you to be exactly who you are now…the catalyst …Morgan Richard Oliver
**Where the Crawdads Sing is quoted by Delia Owens
The Shack by William P. Young is mentioned.
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Tina shares her soul-searching journey on the 22-mile Kalalau Trail. She takes us on an exhilarating journey as she finds herself on the narrow, rugged trail that landed her in front of the Jurassic Park backdrop. As she encountered monk seals, sea turtles, pigs and dangerous goats, she breathed in the awe-inspiring beauty of Kauai's landscape. Tina and her hiking partner, Jen, were forced to conquer 11 miles of the trail, in 10 hours, as a reported tropical storm, headed their way.
Listen to part one as Tina talks about the tent that almost got away, gusty winds and the beautiful emerald cliffs. She shares her adventures from the North Shore to Shipwreck Beach and from Waimea Canyon, Kalalau Lookout, Queen's Bath and Hanalei Bay. She witnessed two life-threatening rescues and she met many wonderfully interesting people "We are all strangers, but yet we are all connected." (Tina)
She began her journey with a double rainbow and was safely delivered through the path of treachery and peace. Part one ends with a tease for next week as the trail leads Tina to a beautiful connection with real life and shows her how to find her inner strength while accepting seemingly conflicting feelings.
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Welcome back to an enlightening conversation that promises to redefine our perceptions of education and mental health. We have an extraordinary guest, Shannon Fisher from Wadsworth City Schools, known for advocating mental health over traditional academics. Together, we explore the questions: when it comes to our children's education, which is more important - achieving academic excellence or fostering mental well-being? How do we meet each child wehre they are when there are 30 plus kids in a class? and How can parents and teachers work together for kids to be their best?
We also talk about the role of today's pressures with our children'. We explore not just the impact of these forces on our children, but how it affects teachers as well. You'll hear from Kerri, a counselor with Springfield Local Schools, on her perspective after 30 years of experience. We talk about the evolution of the education system and how students are coping with these changes. We explore the omnipresent role of social media in our children's lives, the threats it poses like cyberbullying, and the struggle parents face in managing their digital presence. This discussion is sure to resonate with both educators and parents.
Finally, we spotlight the importance of collaboration between parents and teachers. We dive into the strategies implemented by the Wadsworth City School Administration to support students grappling with trauma. We examine the role of public school counselors and their Herculean task of meeting the needs of hundreds of students. Finally, we underline the power of effective communication and teamwork in helping our children thrive. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the education and upbringing of young minds. So, tune in and join us on this enlightening journey.
Quotes from the show:
**It’s 2 fold…helping kids co-regulate and we can’t do that if we are also not taking care of ourselves. Our own mental health needs, need to be met to show up as our best version of ourselves. Kid’s deserve that. They deserve to have adults that can model for them. Shannon Fisher
"When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it is our job to share our calm, not to join their chaos." ~L.R. Knost**
There is a lot more pressures on kids, these days. And the skills are not being taught as times have changed. There is a melting pot that has added to the stressors of today. Between competitions, anxieties, the pressures of the test in the classroom, we need to give them the tools to make it.
Human development has not caught up to how kids are being taught in the classroom. Shannon Fisher
Give others grace. Everyone is doing the best they can with the tools they have. Shannon Fisher
When we start making accusations, we get defensive and then nothing can be done to help the kid. Our focus needs to be on the kid and just know that everyone is doing the best they can. Shannon Fisher
**I need to put my words to how I'm feeling and explain my problem solving through it...this help model to our children instead of just walk away. Shannon Fisher
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Tune in this week as Real Talk with Tina and Ann speak with two very experienced educators regarding trauma and mental health within our schools. Shannon Fisher, a certified trauma and resilience practitioner is a teacher in the Wadsworth City School District in Ohio. Listen to her insight as well as a three-decade-long experienced school counselor, Kerri Franks, share what it takes to help students,
Fisher shares her perspective on trauma-informed teaching, mental health, and ways in which the brain responds to trauma, rewards and consequences. Their insights into the power of positive interactions, consistency, boundaries, and the need to empower students to help develop their social and emotional skills is quite profound.
They navigate the topic of education and parenting, acknowledging the challenges of a high-pressured environment, riddled with distractions. Parents are often trying to help regulate their children while they are not regulated, themselves. From social media to overloaded brains, this episode takes you into the heart of some of the hardest challenges teachers and parents face.
“The most important step is to make sure (students) have a strong connection so they know they are safe. When trauma happens, they are looking for safety.” Shannon Fisher
Fisher shares and discusses her favorite quote: "When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it is our job to share our calm, not to join their chaos." ~L.R. Knost
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Ever find yourself face to face with a seemingly insurmountable obstacle and wondered, "How do I overcome this?" Can you get to your dream if you don't see the obstacles? Join us as we navigate through life's challenging terrain, drawing strength from personal stories of resilience and hope. Journey with Tina, our co-host, as she shares a touching 4th of July experience with her family, and preps for her upcoming daring adventure through dangerous trails in Hawaii - a dream she's nurtured since 2009. Through this expedition, we'll unearth the power of positive self-talk and self-compassion, revealing the gems of wisdom that'll help you unlock your true potential.
Imagine channeling the power of your inner critic to become the hero of your own story. Intriguing, isn't it? Walk with us as we dive into this realm, demonstrating how to use self-compassion and positive self-talk to combat our internal battles. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Michael Jordan and a story from the movie Facing the Giants, we'll learn how to push past the fear of the unknown. So, strap in and join us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery, growth, and overcoming hurdles - a journey that promises to inspire and empower you.
"**When I have said yes to anything, I didn’t know what was ahead. It’s saying yes. It’s showing up. It’s giving your best whatever level that is. It’s just doing it over and over and over until you reach the summit. A question for our listeners, What hurdle makes you stop half way up that mountain and turn around before you reach the peak?" Ann
"There are many ways to the dream. Some take the exact path they knew they would take. Some take the path that is more treacherous or the one less traveled and some take the detours, but it is not about how we get there, but that we get there." Ann
"I didn’t know if I could do the training but now that I have, I know I can conquer this trail I know there are going to be very challenging parts, both physically and mentally, but I also know I can do it and I will never quit!" Tina
"I found the more you climb the mountain, the more confident you feel each time." Tina
"The next time you want to quit, remember why you started." Tina**
“The hardest mountain to climb is the one within”. ***- J. Lynn
"*Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. " Michael Jordan
"Anything is possible with God and anything is possible when you put your mind to it. " Ann
Exodus 9 But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed**
Create with Purpose
The movie Facing the Giants it talked about throughout the episode. A 2006 movie by Samuel Goldwyn Films.
Samuel Goldwyn Films
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Today, Real Talk is graced with the presence of Erin Simpson and Joyce Walker from the Wadsworth City Schools in Ohio. They expose us to their trauma-aware, mental health focused program, in part two, of a two-part series. Grizzley Academy is not just another school, but an environment that nurtures family connections through values such as regulation, empathy, confidence, and compassion.
Mental Health and trauma has become an unavoidable conversation in the educational system and Grizzly Academy is ready to tackle it head-on. We'll examine how a supportive environment for both students and staff can be built, and the importance of trauma awareness in molding this environment. We'll discuss how schools can be a catalyst for change, extending their support to families. Together, we can create a safe space for open dialogue and positive change.
We'll take a look at the school's day, what made mental health a priority, strategies to building these meaningful connections between school and family and how they are cultivating a climate of trust within their staff.
(We apologize for some of the audio when Erin is speaking)
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Join us this week as Tina and Ann interview Principal Erin Simpson and Director of Students Services, Joyce Walker from Wadsworth City Schools in Ohio. They have created a model program to reach students where they are. In this episode you will hear them talk about student's needs, how their district has assessed the needs and how they have filled those gaps. They discuss the model program the district is implementing this year and wraparound services that schools are having to provide as children's need have significantly change.
Simpson explains how fast-paced learning has become and how expectations have grown. Simpson was principal of Overlook Elementary School for 15 years and has decided to become the leader of Grizzly Academy. “Kids who need the most love, ask for it in the most difficult ways,” she quoted. “I know the power of relationships. We want to give those students and their families the attention they need." She believes, "we are all good inside and what might be coming out might not be our best self. We want to build and reassure that child that it’s ok to be angry or scared, but we teach them how to cope and manage.”
She believes that it is not about self-regulation, but co-regulation. She shares many more of her insights on the needs of our children today and lists two things students need to be successful adults.
Joyce Walker and Coordinator of Special Education Jenn Thomas helped spearhead this model program. Listen to the board's response and how the program came to fruition. “There has been a lot of research put into educating the whole child,” Walker states. “It is supporting the entire student within that smaller setting.”
Part 2 will be even more uplifting and encouraging as we continue to listen to educators put mental health, first, when it comes to our children's education.
Superintendent Dr. Andy Hill from Wadsworth City Schools is mentioned
Jenn Thomas from Wadsworth City Schools is mentioned
**Dr. Becky from Good Inside is mentioned
(For some reason, last couple tapings have not been our normal audio clarity. Trying to figure it out. We apologize. Erin Simpson states the school's 'saying,' "Family Growing Together." The word 'Growing' is inaudible.)
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This week’s episode is a little different as Tina and Ann discuss the cycle of life–Life's ups and downs and the simplicities and complexities of merely existing.
Tina shares some of the most heartbreaking and simultaneous joyous times and a counselor’s reaction to her pain. Listen as the pair dissect a painfully real situation, the role of a counselor and what happens when we take on that tough role of caregiver for our parents. Ann discusses how the complexities of relationships can add to a death and shares the death of her own adopted mother. They continue to talk about their thoughts on stages of grief and talk about a quote from the book, A Grace Disguised by Jerry Sittser, “There is no point in comparing loss because loss is loss.”
Ann shares the meaning of the tattoo she got after the death of her mom and states, “Life is a series of ups and downs and complexities and simplicities. And honestly, I want to choose the simple. Life is painful. That is a fact. But simplicity helps that pain. It brings back what life is all about and brings us to a life of closeness and beauty in the pain.
There is so much involved when it comes to the ups and downs of being in a family. Finding that balance between ourselves, our kids, and taking care of our parents can be very difficult but needed. Ann discusses how her life was changed in her recent trip to Tennessee.
Today’s quote: You want a person in your life you can trust, when you can’t trust yourself.”
Chasing the Monster’s Away lyrics by James Blunt are mentioned.
A grace Disguised by Jerry Sittser is talked about. "There is no point in comparing loss because loss is loss"
Lion King and Charlotte's Web is mentioned.
**Housewives Franchise and Vanderpump Rules is mentioned.
(We apologize for the background noise you can hear at times in this episode)
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In this week’s episode, Tina and Ann discuss different types of panic attacks and generational trauma. They share their thoughts on epigenetics, physical symptoms from trauma and neurobiological pathways. They look at the definition of panic attacks from the Mayo Clinic, physical symptoms of panic attacks and how it can be a physical response of trauma. They briefly discuss the difference between panic attacks and panic disorders and being fearful of having another. They discuss reasons a panic attack can happen and nocturnal panic attacks.
The Quote for the week is: "We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely do we admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Maya Angelou
**In order for us to make those changes, the change and hard work has to begin with us. We can do it one step at a time, one breath at a time, and we can do this together.
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Get ready for TOMORROW:
PTSD part 4
This week, Tina and Ann discuss the next symptom of PTSD. Our body is so intricate and remembers trauma in different ways. The pair share how the body can keep score of what we have gone through. The book, The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk is mentioned.
Ann shares some pretty significant stories where trauma has altered a family member’s brain and Tina shares how a traumatic event is revisited every year with a body memory. There are layers of trauma. The lack of nutrition can be a layer of trauma to the body. Abuse can be a layer of trauma. Let’s look at how our bodies remember…and we begin the discussion of how young the body can remember. Can the body remember in utero or pre-verbal trauma? Traumatic effects are stored until they are healed. Just like a tree’s rings, our body remembers.
Two more questions are discussed in this episode: Why are people so mean to people who are different? And Why are people looked at as being different for being kind?
Quote for this week: Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.”
Sometimes, we just have to push through the fear…one step at a time.
We can do this together.
Sources:
Sources: Wonder by R.J. Palcio
Health.com
U.S. Dept. Of Veteran's Affairs
**The Body Keeps the Scoreby Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk
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In this weeks episode, Tina and Ann finish up the symptom of selective amnesia and how kind the mind can actually be when it comes to traumatic memories.
Tina and Ann also discuss the difficult topic of self-harm and suicide.
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please call suicide hotline at 988. If you feel like you cannot go one more day or one more moment, please call this number or reach out to someone immediately. You are loved and needed in this world. You will be so sadly missed. Do ANYTHING but take your own life. Fina a way to take one more breath.
This episode is to help figure out healthier outlets when going through pain.
If the only thing you can say is Help, please say it.
Quote of the week: "We are all broken, that’s how the light gets in." Ernest Hemingway
And we are all broken and that is how the light also comes out as we feel more connected as broken individuals.
Sources: Health.com,
13 Reasons Why on Netflix
Journal of Traumatic Stress
Scars by Cheryl Rainsfield
Healthline.com
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Tina and Ann discuss two more symptoms of PTSD.
- Avoiding people places and things
- Memory loss
**Ann shares the joy of realizing how far she has come in her journey and how she became more than her abuse and no longer lives in her pain. Tina shares a painful memory, going through the grief and how memory loss and trauma is currently affecting her life.
Quote: ”Hurt people hurt others, but luckily healed people heal others. Safe people shelter others. Free spirits, free others. Enlightened people illuminate others. And love always wins. So shine your light of love on all who may cross your path in life, because what you do matters.”**
Sources:
**Health.com is the source.
U.S, Veteran’s affairs
The Body Keeps the Score book
DSM-5
Patsy Clairmont, The Cracked Pot
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The first six symptoms are discussed on this episode of Real Talk.
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares/Sleep Disturbance
- Hypervigilance
- Getting Startled easily
- Depression–shame Guilt hopelessness anger can lead to depression
- Anger–those same feelings of guilt and hopelessness can lead to anger
Tina and Ann discuss all six and the difference between Anger and being mad. They also discuss how to handle anger and when to sit on it. Tina shares the phrase, "Feel it to Heal it," and what that mantra has been in her life.
The book, The Body Keeps the Score, from Bressel Van der Kolk was talked about in the podcast.
We praise everyone out there who is fighting there battles and maybe just taking one step forward. Thank you for fighting this journey with us.
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”Every day in a hundred small ways our children ask, ‘Do you see me? Do you hear me? Do I matter?’ Their behavior often reflects our response.” L.R. Knost The Gentle Parent**This episode resonates for any parent or for anyone who has been intentionally hurt by another. Tina and Ann sadly discuss how even someone within our inner circle can be a danger. Vulnerabilities and grooming are very real and it is every family's right to set up necessary boundaries. Listening to what our children are 'not' saying or cryptically saying can be critical.
The stories shared are hair raising and they can happen to anyone, anywhere. We hope this episode brings awareness and healing.
This episode has a hinting of sensitive material.
New York Times:**What Does ‘Grooming’ Mean in Sexual Abuse Cases? - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
Tina and Ann discuss an article from Family Education. The duo discuss keeping an open door policy even when our kids come to us with the tough stuff. Tina had an amazing quote, "Don't judge anyone on how they handle a pain you've never felt." And since, we believe that everyone's experiences are different, to them, we believe in loving people where they are. People do remember how you make them feel. We need to be welcoming and listen to our children, no matter how hard. Holding on to the positives, no matter how small, is hugely important, as well. The two discuss how to bring screen time to life and how to utilize those times to make memories. Learning apps are discussed and Ann talks about TickTalk watches. The watch tracks our children's location and allows them to push a button calling us directly.
Tina and Ann also discuss the X plan and other helpful tools to keep our kids safe.
Quote: “A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support. No one would feel embarrassed about seeking help for a child if they broke their arm–and we really should be equally ready to support a child coping with emotional difficulties.” Kate Middleton
As we say at Real Talk with Tina and Ann, life is a journey and let's do this together. We are all becoming. We are all a work in progress. "Imperfect progress is still progress," Tina reminds us in this episode. We are all moving forward. Life can be a marathon sprint. Ann talks about worth as she says for the first time, "I like me...I will not let other's words about my worth become my beliefs, even if they gave birth to me."
How we "talk to ourselves in the privacy of our own minds, matters," Tina shares.
Join us as we get Real. The Velveteen Rabbit says it all.
“Real isn't how you are made,' said the Skin Horse. 'It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.'
'Does it hurt?' asked the Rabbit.
'Sometimes,' said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. 'When you are Real you don't mind being hurt.'
'Does it happen all at once, like being wound up,' he asked, 'or bit by bit?'
'It doesn't happen all at once,' said the Skin Horse. 'You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.”
― Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit
Next week, we will be having an amazing guest who is the epitome of overcoming adversity. Don Bartlette has spoken around the world and he has a book, stage play and song written about his life. Tune in next week.
Thank you so much for listening to Real Talk with Tina and Ann.
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Tina and Ann continue their discussion on Tina's sudden loss and talk strategies and hope. Ann's daughter asked the question, "Why is life not fair?" and the duo discuss their thoughts on the proper response to a question like that from a small child.
" Grief is not a disorder, or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief, is grief."
**Earl Grollman
The book The Invisible Leash by Patrice Karst**
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Tina shares an unexpected loss and shares a very personal story she has not talked about before, here on our podcasts. This quote says it all:
" Grief is not a disorder, or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief, is grief."
**Earl Grollman
The book The Invisible Leash by Patrice Karst
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How did we get here? As we enter into Easter or Spring Break or however you view the newness of Spring, Let's Discuss what I call The Elephant in the Room.
Listen to these nine minutes of commentary and give us your thoughts.
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**Unfortunately, bullying has changed over the decades, for the worse. Last week, we had a public-school counselor discuss how the internet has changed bullying with our kids. This week, we continue the discussion. Bullying in our schools is rampant and it's deeply affecting the mental health of our children. We discuss seven ways we can help a child who is being bullied. Kids today are having a difficult time focusing on academics because of a fear of their peers. We also talk ways to actively teach our children with social stories and role playing. A kid's mental health affects every aspect of their life, so we need to make this a priority over everything.
This week's quotes:
"When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it's our job to share our calm and not to join their chaos." L.R. Knost.
"A child's mental health is more important that their grades." Unknown
Psychology Today article: How to Help a Child Who's Being Bullied | Psychology Today Tina and Ann's Podcast website: https://podcastrealtalk.buzzsprout.com Facebook:** Real Talk with Tina and Ann | Facebook
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In this episode, Tina and Ann speak with, Kerri, a public-school counselor of 27 years. She talks about how online access has changed bullying and access to our children. Cyber bullying has added another layer to body image, embarrassment, humiliation and the negativity that is attacking our kids. Kids, today, have too many freedoms and are not mature enough to handle them. This has resulted in behaviors that we did not see 20 years ago.
We discuss the biggest changes the schools have seen with our kids in the last 20 years, especially since covid. Our guest has seen desperate pleads for help as young as first grade.
We discuss what we as parents can do to help our kids feel safe and protected from outside influences to school shootings. We talk about the roles of school personnel with our kiddos today and how schools are much more than just a learning institution.
The passing of our levies is critical for schools to meet the needs of our kids. Not only are programs like the arts, sports and music taken away from the kids, but those are THE creative outlet that they need to express themselves during these difficult times.
**Kerri gives us an inside look at what our schools are really going through and what we need to do to not only help our children, but how to assist the schools in helping our children, as well.
Quote used: “Because children grow up, we think a child’s purpose is to grow up. But a child’s purpose is to be a child.” – Tom Stoppard
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**Fear is at the root of so much of who we are. There are many types of fear responses. Some of us are runners, some of us are fighters and some are paralyzed in their fear. We can even have different fear responses, depending on the situation. As long as fear is present, it is hard to move forward, but we have to remember that any movement is movement. Movement happens outside of our comfort zone, but sometimes fear can be so consuming that we are not able to think of anything else.
Tina discusses a deep fear that caused her to have physical reactions and the growth she experienced in the valley. She talks new behaviors, resilience, how to retrain your brain and IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapy. She reveals how she has learned to stop and take in the new view as she climbs her mountain. There is beauty in becoming and our entire perspective changes when we get to the other side of that fear.
Ann talks about the women she met while ministering in the jail system. Their definitions of themselves were based on their actions, circumstances, fears, and other's perceptions. She brings up segments from her book, The Sinful Woman, that is based from Luke 7, where religious leaders wrongly judged and shamed her while Jesus saw her heart. Ann also talks about how she was finally able to fully live after a family member's death. She also shares her son's fear and how he pushed through to success.
We are much more than our fear, our action or someone else's criticism, but the pair discuss how important it is to get to know that fear, that motivation or that child within before changing it.
Fears can drive the bus at times, but it is not who we are. Fears can take the shape of the age we were when they enter, but Tina points out that they can manifest into other forms such as anxiety.
Quotes: "Criticism that costs nothing is worth nothing," by Jon Acuff
Viola Davis's quote, "Though I can't live inside yesterday's pain, I can't live without it."
Autumn quote. When you're fearful of change, think of the beauty of autumn.
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Our website is Real Talk with Tina and Ann (buzzsprout.com) Our email is: realtalkpodcastwithtinaann@gmail.com
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Thanks for listening**
There is only one word that describes this podcast. POWERFUL! Join us as Tina and Ann have a REAL discussion on belonging and feeling worthy of love. They talk past messages and past hurts that can lead to other unfulfilling relationships and pains. Ann reads a very personal poem that she wrote as a child and discusses the circumstances that led to that poem. Tina gets candid on some current struggles. This is an episode of transparency and resiliency. Join us and let’s get REAL!
Key phrase: Feelings are indicators not dictators.
Key Point: It is important for the kids in the room to see the adults in the room, value each other.
Some key questions: Why do we allow people or circumstances to control our feelings? Why do we allow them to let us feel less than?
**Quote: “We don’t have to let what breaks our hearts destroy our lives.” Lysa Terkeurst
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Ann’s poem will be released in writing in a few days on our Facebook page.
Tina and Ann talk about ‘fear thinking’ and the loops we can run in our head. They talk about what is a healthy fear, but when that irrational fear gets in there, what does that mean, where could it come from, and what do we do with it? Thoughts lead to feelings which can lead to our actions. The duo talks about their fear responses from childhood traumas and how they are carving new neuropathways.
There are three thinking pattens that are discussed. Fatalistic which is a, 'everything is your fault,' mentality. Fixed thinking is that 'you are always right, and your mind cannot be changed.'
A Growth mindset is being open and willing to push past our comfort zones.
What does self-compassion look like and why do we give more grace to others than we do to ourselves? Why can our self-talk be so negative?
Ann talks about her term, 'Thought-Stopping.' This is a way to consciously and purposefully stop a thought and force it to go a different path. This takes effort, but it can train the brain to automatically go a more positive route once the thought starts. Ann almost cries in the end as she speaks from the book, Finding Me, by Viola Davis. Davis is an EGOT winner and an amazing actress. She tells her story of horrific abuse and explains how she became a successful actress. Ann said that Davis's words, "My dreams are bigger than my fears," is THE reason she is where she is today.
Fear can overtake us, but we can carve a new path.
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You can reach us on our Facebook page, Real Talk with Tina and Ann. Please feel free to message us.
The last quote that was used was, Being brave is not the absence of fear, but finding a way through it, by Bear Grylls
This episode is raw and real. If you know of anyone who needs HOPE or has had trauma, we talk about some very current events that have happened and how past traumas triggered our responses.
We briefly discuss CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and three key questions we need to ask ourselves during a fear.
What is the worst outcome?
What is the best outcome? ...and
What is the most likely outcome?
We then briefly look into what that outcome could look like in a week, in a month and in a year.
Asking these questions can help us put what is happening, into perspective. Tina compares these questions to a scene in her favorite show, This is Us, and how she and her husband ask themselves these very questions to put thoughts and fears into perspective.
Ann quotes Pink, "I'm more trusting now because of whatever comes at me, I can handle," and switches the word trust into fear. Ann has learned to handle fear better because she can handle whatever comes at her with less fear, and takes the title from Pink's song, Trustfall, and states, we trustfall into our fears, every day.
Tina discusses how fear can be a good thing, but it can also be a distraction and paralyzing. She shares a very personal experience that triggered past trauma and how she worked through the fear. Tina thanked the little girl in her for persevering and figuring out how to make it through. She talks therapies and what she is doing to get back to her, 'true self.
As parents, they discuss some of their kids current fears and relate it to their own childhood fears. What can be perceived as irrational to others, is a 'real' fear to that person and needs to be handled with love.
The two talk about how asking for help is a strength and how scars and our fears can actually bring people together.
Acronym used during podcast: HOPE: Hold On Pain Ends.
Thank you so much for supporting. We are hoping to help at least one person. Spread the word, like our page at Real Talk with Tina and Ann. You can also listen to us on our webpage, Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify, iHeart radio and anywhere you listen to your podcasts.
Tina and Ann discuss how trauma is passed down and the scripts we tell ourselves. They talk how important it is to feel heard and validated and how significant life's events can take us on a different course. They talk about the adults in kid's lives and how the secrets we tell them to keep can add a fear element. Trusting parents is critical. They also discuss being able to have friends without judgement and turning scripts around, so we talk positively to ourselves. They talk IFS (individual family systems) and discuss the eight C's associated with that type of therapy. The 8 C's are, Compassion, Curiosity, Calm, Clarity, Courage, Connectedness, Confidence, and Creativity. Ann will also give a homework assignment. Tune in to see what it is. This is a great episode.
Tina and Ann discuss moving forward in the fear. Shutting down and refusal can appear the same and being stuck in a moment in time. We all have mile markers in our lives that change our course and our lives, forever. They talk associations that are made in traumatic events and what it takes to move forward. They briefly discuss IFS Thereapy (internal family systems) and Ann shares some very personal traumatic events that happened when she was a child that has stuck with her to this day. Breaking through and working toward freedom is a strength. We are showing our kids that crying is strength, hurting moves us forward, and facing trauma is brave. It is critical that adults acknowledge the child in the room during trauma and crisis.
Growth takes time. We need to be transparent about our own failures to de-stigmatize the process of this lifelong journey that we are on.
Visit our facebook page: Real Talk with Tina and Ann. We also would love to have you visit our website and listen to our podcast on Apple, Amazon Music, Spotify, iHeart and anywhere you find your podcasts.
Thank you so much for listening.
Tina and Ann met each other many years ago covering a murder case. Join their podcast to hear their lives, their struggles and what gets them through. The first episode describes their friendship and connection. They explain their reason for wanting to put their lives out there and BE REAL. The two friends provide a sneak peek to upcoming episodes and invite YOU, the listener to GET REAL with them.
Today's Quote was by Tricia Lott Williford who knows a lot about joy and pain. We discuss her quote and how it touches our lives.
The Velveteen Rabbit has a quote about REAL.
“Real isn't how you are made,' said the Skin Horse. 'It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.'
'Does it hurt?' asked the Rabbit.
'Sometimes,' said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. 'When you are Real you don't mind being hurt.'
'Does it happen all at once, like being wound up,' he asked, 'or bit by bit?'
'It doesn't happen all at once,' said the Skin Horse. 'You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.”
― Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit You can reach Tina and Ann at Real Talk with Tina and Ann on Facebook.
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