Intrepid Storytelling

"I didn't stop being afraid in life until other people became afraid of me." ⛓️   How does a six-year-old child, conditioned by solitary confinement and physical abuse at home, find his way back to humanity after decades behind bars? Jacob Ivan Schmitt isn't just a survivor of the carceral system; he is a man who had to reverse-engineer his own soul in a place designed to strip it away. In this raw, deep-dive conversation, Jacob moves past the "bank robber" headlines to expose the systemic brutality of the American legal system and the profound power of restorative healing.   Jacob’s life story is a masterclass in resilience and transformation. A childhood trauma survivor who spent more than thirty years in institutional settings, he eventually turned to self-education in law to strengthen his moral reasoning and cultivate a deep understanding of accountability. Today, as the founder and director of Just Us Solutions, LLC, Jacob translates that hard-earned vision into practical solutions for reentry, trauma care, and justice reform.   His leadership is defined by strategy, empathy, and an ability to improve access to legal support and services for veterans and system-impacted individuals. Jacob’s influence now extends from community partnerships to the Washington State Legislature, where he has testified on reentry collaboration and justice reform. In every setting, Jacob holds to a simple belief: when all hope is lost, belief itself becomes the foundation for change.   Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Anxiety and Depression 00:49 The Power of Storytelling 02:14 The Journey to Justice 03:09 Experiences in Confinement 04:03 The Impact of Trauma 05:01 The Importance of Dignity 05:56 The Role of Community Support 06:53 The Need for Change in the Justice System 07:47 Childhood Trauma and Its Effects 09:14 Finding Hope and Healing 10:12 The Importance of Connection 11:11 Creating a Better Future 42:23 Trauma and Isolation in Childhood 48:44 The Impact of Institutionalization 55:02 Navigating Adolescence and Early Criminality 01:01:05 The Prison Experience and Social Dynamics 01:08:11 Learning and Growth in Confinement 01:14:46 Relationships and Emotional Healing 01:20:30 Abolition and the Need for Systemic Change 01:25:02 Healing Through Consequences 01:30:17 Reforming Correctional Systems 01:35:21 Processing Trauma in Confinement 01:40:56 Building Dignity and Confidence 01:45:08 Empowering Through Education 01:51:27 The Power of Love Over Hate   CONNECT WITH JACOB: WEBSITE: https://www.justus.solutions/about-us FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/jacobivanschmitt LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-ivan-schmitt-376367298/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email: [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #JacobIvanSchmitt #TrueStory #SurvivorStory #PrisonReform #MentalHealthPodcast #RestorativeJustice #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

What happens when you realize that no one is coming to save you, and you must become your own greatest protector?   Erin Alexander, founder of the marketing agency Finally Social, didn’t have a simple path to the life and business she loves today. From navigating a difficult upbringing in Oregon to rubbing shoulders with Andy Warhol in the drug-fueled New York City club scene of the 1980s, Erin lived life on the edge. After hitting a breaking point and receiving two DWIs, she knew she had to make a drastic change or lose her life entirely.   Now approaching 34 years of sobriety, Erin sits down to share her raw, unconventional journey to getting clean, one that involved a women-only treatment center and skipped the traditional 12-step meetings. In this deeply honest conversation, Erin discusses connecting with her Chippewa and Sac and Fox Native American heritage, learning how to ruthlessly protect her peace using her "bullseye" friendship method, and the realization that your dark past shapes you, but never has to define you.   Chapters: 00:00 Journey of Transformation: From Struggles to Success 32:02 The Power of Relationships and Self-Worth 35:46 Navigating Sobriety: Personal Journeys 39:08 Finding Humor in Sobriety 42:40 The Importance of Personalization in Recovery 44:04 Authenticity in Marketing and Real Estate 48:15 Understanding the Real Estate Landscape 52:11 Building Trust Through Storytelling 56:04 The Power of Branding and Consistency 01:00:13 Engagement Over Numbers in Social Media 01:05:30 Utilizing Social Media Effectively   Connect with Erin: WEBSITE www.FinallySocial.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/share/1DhXc2JfBr/ INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/finallysocial?igsh=aTB3dXdrcnR5YWF5 LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/erincalexander?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #ErinAlexander #SobrietyJourney #OvercomingAddiction #SettingBoundaries #SelfWorth #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

What happens when your "rock," your protector, and your only link to your biological past suddenly turns into your greatest threat?   At just 6 years old, Jay Barbanel was a survivor. Adopted from a high-stakes environment in Costa Rica alongside his older brother, Jay thought they had finally found safety in the U.S. and Europe. But while Jay adapted and thrived, his brother was harboring a dark, boiling resentment, one that ended in a terrifying attempt on Jay’s life and a permanent separation that would haunt him for three decades.   In this raw and profoundly moving episode, Jay shares his journey of unlearning survival tactics and the grueling work of reconnecting with an "inner child" he had long ago abandoned. From the cultural shock of moving between Boston, Belgium, and Barcelona, to the life-altering moment he found a dusty box labeled "Adoption Files" in his parents' basement, Jay’s story is a masterclass in resilience.   Jay discusses the trauma of survival in the Costa Rican orphanage system with broken bones and a guardian brother who was only 5 years old. He reflects on the devastating day his brother was sent back to Costa Rica after trying to kill him, and the 30-year silence that followed. Jay explains how a single geotag on Instagram and a community of strangers in Costa Rica helped him find the truth about his biological mother and 11 siblings, leading to the shocking revelation he faced when he finally reconnected with his brother as an adult. He also touches on how photography became his "proof of existence" and a tool for rebuilding his shattered identity. Jay’s story isn't just about adoption, it's for anyone who has ever felt lost, anyone who has had to "compartmentalize" to survive, and anyone brave enough to face the things that scare them most.   Watch the full episode to discover the truth Jay found in Costa Rica and the message of hope he has for adoptees everywhere.   PURCHASE JAY'S BOOK HERE: https://amzn.to/4e9qqfw JAY'S WEBSITE: https://www.findingtico.com/ JAY'S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thatkidjay1/ FINDING TICO INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/finding_tico/ JAY'S FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JayBarbanel   Chapters: 00:00 The Journey Begins: A Story of Adoption and Survival 03:02 Childhood Memories: The Orphanage and Early Life 06:13 The Bond of Brotherhood: Love and Protection 08:55 The Struggles of Adaptation: Moving to New Cultures 11:47 The Breaking Point: A Brother's Anger and Separation 15:04 Compartmentalization: Coping with Trauma 17:53 Finding Identity: The Search for Self 21:09 Reconnecting with the Past: Discovering Family History 23:59 Therapy and Healing: Understanding the Impact of Adoption 26:51 The Power of Photography: Capturing Identity 29:56 A New Chapter: Returning to Costa Rica 33:11 Reunion: Connecting with My Brother Again 34:39 Searching for Roots: A Journey of Discovery 39:20 Connecting with Family: The Emotional Rollercoaster 44:35 Reconnecting with Costa Rica: A Homecoming 52:23 Writing My Story: The Power of Expression 57:18 Life Lessons: Embracing Change and Seeking Help   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email: [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #JayBarbanel #AdoptionStory #SurvivorStory #InnerChildHealing #CostaRicaAdoption #FamilySeparation #TherapyJourney #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #FindingTico

What do you do when the life you built with your soulmate is suddenly shattered by the unimaginable?   Michelle Bruto da Costa achieved the American dream, rising from her roots as a first-generation American to become a top 1% mortgage loan originator nationwide. She built a beautiful life with Mark, her soulmate of 23 years, raising five children together. But everything changed overnight when Mark, perfectly healthy at 42, was unexpectedly diagnosed with aggressive stage 4 colon cancer. In this deeply moving episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Michelle shares her raw journey through devastating miscarriages, managing a demanding career from hospital waiting rooms, and the agonizing heartbreak of losing her best friend to a sudden infection.   Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, the brutal reality of profound grief, and choosing to carry the torch forward when fate tries to break you.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling 00:28 Meet Michelle Bruta da Costa: A Journey in Mortgages 01:19 Building a Reputation: Word of Mouth Success 03:06 Overcoming Obstacles: Michelle's Personal Story 04:33 Lessons from Childhood: Values and Work Ethic 06:56 The Power of Self-Help and Personal Growth 10:50 Finding Love: A Serendipitous Meeting 16:26 Family Dynamics: Moving and Growing Together 21:30 Career Paths: From Medicine to Mortgages 27:06 Teamwork in Marriage: Mark's Supportive Role 31:11 Relationships and Learning from Others 35:44 Family Life: Raising Five Kids 37:35 Facing Challenges: The Impact of Loss 39:07 Navigating Grief: The Impact of Miscarriage 48:23 Facing Cancer: A Personal Journey 01:01:39 The Aftermath: Coping with Loss and Moving Forward   Connect with Michelle: WEBSITE: https://www.cmghomeloans.com/mysite/michelle-bruto-da-cost FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.brutodacosta INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_bdc/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #MichelleBrutoDaCosta #WidowhoodJourney #Resilience #CancerSpouse #GriefSupport #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #FacebookWatch

What happens when the only way to survive your childhood is to numb the pain, until the numbing becomes its own nightmare?   Sebrina grew up in a constant state of survival mode, facing repeated evictions, shut-off utilities, and an unpredictable environment shaped by her mother’s active drug use and an absent father. To cope with the overwhelming uncertainty, she turned to alcohol at a young age, eventually hitting a devastating rock bottom by age 29 where she found herself drinking a fifth of vodka daily just to function. Despite moving across the country to Las Vegas and trying multiple treatment facilities and medications, the cycle of relapse continued as she desperately tried to outrun her inner pain rather than face it.   Today, Sebrina is four years sober, but her healing wasn't found in traditional AA meetings, which caused her severe social anxiety. Instead, she discovered profound growth through inner-child work, daily yoga, cutting out sugar, and learning to regulate a nervous system trapped in trauma—trauma that eventually manifested physically as painful autoimmune diseases. Fresh out of a four-year relationship that ended in betrayal, Sebrina shares her raw, unfiltered story of taking her power back and leveling up, proving that no matter how deep your trauma goes, you are not broken.   Chapters: 00:00 Journey of Healing and Empowerment 12:21 Facing Rock Bottom and Seeking Help 20:43 Navigating Relationships and Sobriety 28:06 Practices for Sustaining Sobriety 40:12 Life Lessons and Messages of Hope   Follow Sebrina on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/bre.shovan INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sebrina_shovan/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@sebrinashovan   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #SebrinaShovan #SobrietyJourney #ChildhoodTrauma #AlcoholismRecovery #InnerChildHealing #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

What is the cost of leaving everything you've ever known? When the rug is pulled out from under you, losing your community, your faith, and your financial stability all at once, how do you rebuild?   In Part 4 of her powerful journey, Lacey Gallear sits down with Deanna Powell to discuss the painful aftermath of leaving the Mars Hill church and realizing she had been in the "cult of Amway". Suddenly a single mom drowning in debt and completely isolated, Lacey had to start her life over from scratch. She opens up about the deep depression that followed, the startling realizations that forced her to deconstruct her evangelical faith, and confronting the "sunk cost fallacy" of giving her life to organizations that cost her everything.   Lacey shares the difficult truths she had to unlearn, from facing covert racism as an HR assistant in corporate America to untangling herself from the teachings of Christian nationalism and the New Apostolic Reformation. From enduring heartbreaking miscarriages to navigating life with a child on the autism spectrum, Lacey’s story is a raw, honest look at what happens when you finally stop ignoring your intuition, set boundaries with toxic family dynamics, and step into the painful—yet freeing—unknown of discovering your own worldview.   Chapters: 00:00 The Journey of Deconstruction 10:01 Finding Support and Friendship 19:56 Navigating Parenthood and Relationships 30:03 Realizations of Cult Dynamics 40:00 The Process of Belief Transformation 45:05 The Struggle with Faith and Authenticity 48:26 Exploring Universalism and New Perspectives 50:36 The Impact of Politics on Faith 54:38 Navigating Personal and Societal Changes 57:18 The Journey of Deconstructing Beliefs 01:01:23 Listening to Intuition and Embracing Self 01:05:11 The Intersection of Personal Loss and Social Justice 01:08:16 Rethinking Love and Acceptance 01:12:03 Confronting Workplace Racism and Bias 01:15:23 The Importance of Education and Awareness 01:19:51 Finding Grounding in Reality and Humanity   Follow Lacey on: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KcubHXdVm/ https://laceygallear.substack.com/   LACEY'S EPISODE ON "LIFE AFTER MLM PODCAST": https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-228-lacey-gallear/id1650491175?i=1000715438398   THE RISE AND FALL OF MARS HILL: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/id1569401963   LEAH REMINI - SCIENTOLOGY & THE AFTERMATH: https://youtu.be/Ow9PI-Aj0AU?si=dyrLVYrWar7W_FTw   MYTHVISION PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/@MythVisionPodcast   PREACHER BOYS PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoys   TIM WHITAKER SPEAKS: https://www.youtube.com/@timwhitakerspeaks   THE NEW EVANGELICALS: https://www.youtube.com/@thenewevangelicalspodcast   PROCESS THEOLOGY - TRIP FULLER: https://youtu.be/tjF5YQuCnMc?si=oVInyoef9R3Jozaj   WHITE WOMAN WHISPERER: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWhiteWomanWhisperer   THE KNITTING CULT LADY: https://www.youtube.com/@KnittingCultLady   CULT EXPERT STEVEN HASSAN: https://www.youtube.com/@drstevenhassan   RYAN & MICHELLE MEEKS - INTREPID STORYTELLING EPISODE: https://youtu.be/7cA4GuFKd88?si=UAJsC7ELFurbD4g7   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #LaceyGallear #DeconstructionJourney #CultSurvivor #ReligiousTrauma #LifeAfterMLM #StorytellingPodcast #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch

What do you do when the institutions that promise to protect you demand the complete erasure of your identity instead?   In Part 3 of her harrowing journey, Lacey Gallear pulls back the curtain on the crushing reality of religious and organizational abuse. After enduring the mind-altering culture of Amway and a devastating first marriage, Lacey hoped her second marriage to a charismatic Christian man would finally bring peace. Instead, she found herself trapped in a nightmare of coercive control, betrayal, and deep isolation.   Drawn into the infamous Mars Hill Church led by Mark Driscoll, Lacey was conditioned to submit, endure, and take the blame for her husband's destructive behavior and hidden addictions. From facing traumatic "church discipline" interrogations by male church leaders to experiencing her darkest, most terrifying moments of hopelessness on the side of a highway, Lacey’s story is a raw and unsettling look at the psychological toll of forced submission, and the incredible, gut-wrenching resilience it takes to finally walk away.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling 01:02 Relatable Struggles and Life Experiences 02:55 Marriage Dynamics and Relationship Challenges 06:11 Exploring Religious Backgrounds and Experiences 09:03 Navigating Love and Relationships 11:53 The Impact of Church Experiences 15:12 Understanding Emotional Manipulation in Relationships 18:00 The Consequences of Rapid Relationships 20:51 The Role of Church in Personal Struggles 24:00 Mark Driscoll and Mars Hill Church Dynamics 27:10 The Effects of Preaching on Personal Relationships 30:00 Reflections on Compliance and Emotional Detachment 32:50 The Sermon That Shook the Audience 37:00 Struggles of Motherhood and Identity 41:51 Breaking Free from Amway 49:14 Navigating Life After Amway 01:00:17 Trust Issues and New Beginnings 01:05:07 Manipulation and Guilt in Counseling 01:11:41 The Burden of Tithing on Children 01:19:51 Church Discipline and Its Impact 01:25:52 Trauma and the Aftermath of Counseling 01:34:30 The Journey of Deconstruction and Healing   Follow Lacey on... FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KcubHXdVm/ SUBSTACK: https://laceygallear.substack.com/   For more reference ⬇️ "The Rise And Fall Of Mars Hill" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rJtwcRM7WNYs0LNTrlP5N?si=f523772c029543d5 Preacher Boys Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@preacherboys   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #LaceyGallear #ReligiousTrauma #CultSurvivor #SpiritualAbuse #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

What happens when the "righteous" community you trust becomes the source of your deepest rejection?   In this intense and revealing Part 2, Deanna Powell continues the deep dive into her cousin Lacey Gallear’s life, a journey that moves from the rigid confines of a small-town California church to the high-stakes world of international "business" cults in Seattle. Lacey shares the heartbreaking moment her "naive" faith was shattered after she invited a gay friend to her church, only to witness his devastating rejection by a pastor she trusted. This pivotal red flag set the stage for a lifetime of questioning authority, even as Lacey found herself pulled into the "bright and shiny" allure of Pentecostal youth groups and high-pressure mission trips.   Chapters: 00:00 Unexpected Visitors and Preparation 01:06 The Journey of Storytelling 01:58 Faith, Acceptance, and Rejection 03:49 Personal Stories of Rejection 07:05 The Impact of Suffering 09:47 Mission Trips and Expectations 13:07 Disappointment in Service 15:55 Cultural Observations and Realities 18:46 Reflections on Guilt and Responsibility 22:09 Navigating Church Dynamics 24:59 Personal Growth and Independence 27:53 Family Dynamics and Recovery 32:34 Navigating Recovery: Personal Perspectives on Support Groups 36:26 Gardening Journey: Learning and Growth Through Nature 38:48 Unexpected Encounters: Meeting Martha Stewart 45:21 Influential Relationships: Mentorship and Personal Growth 50:18 The Allure of Amway: A Journey into Multi-Level Marketing 01:02:03 Cults and Control: The Dark Side of Amway 01:05:06 Personal Connections and Amway's Influence 01:11:21 The Fallout of Betrayal 01:15:31 Navigating Life After Divorce 01:22:31 The Struggles of Balancing Work and Amway 01:29:04 Exploring New Spiritual Paths 01:36:39 The Mars Hill Experience and Its Impact   Follow Lacey on.... FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KcubHXdVm/ SUBSTACK: https://laceygallear.substack.com/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #LaceyGallear #Deconstruction #TrueStory #SurvivorStory #AmwayCult #ReligiousTrauma #MarsHill #MentalHealthPodcast #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

What happens when the people meant to protect you are the ones you have to survive?   In this gripping episode of Intrepid Storytåelling, host Deanna Powell sits down with her cousin, Lacey Gallear, to uncover a childhood defined by high-stakes family drama and rigid religious structures. Lacey shares the shocking reality of her earliest years, a "double kidnapping" between parents that landed her on a family commune in Placerville. There, Lacey led a "Cinderella" existence, parentified at age eight to perform grueling housework and childcare under the shadow of a volatile stepmother who used creative, often mental, punishments to keep her in line.   From "walking on eggshells" to survive physical discipline to being told her own intuition was "of the flesh," Lacey’s journey is one of profound resilience. She speaks candidly about the moment her world fractured at age 15, when she was given an ultimatum to leave her father’s house forever. Moving to Seattle brought a new set of challenges: navigating her biological mother’s escalating alcoholism and seeking refuge in a Pentecostal youth group that offered hope but carried heavy new expectations.   The episode reaches a powerful cliffhanger as Lacey describes the beginning of her spiritual deconstruction. From questioning global suffering to witnessing a pastor’s heartbreaking rejection of a gay friend, Lacey explores the fractures that eventually led her away from fundamentalism. This is a raw look at the courage it takes to finally listen to your gut after a lifetime of being told to ignore it.   Chapters: 00:00 Trusting Intuition: A Journey of Self-Discovery 01:55 Childhood Memories: Family Dynamics and Early Life 09:53 Navigating Relationships: Stepmother and Sibling Responsibilities 20:11 Struggles with Identity: Religion and Self-Esteem 30:06 Adolescence: Challenges and Personal Growth 44:22 Navigating Family Dynamics and Responsibilities 51:36 Confrontation and Rebellion 58:30 Decisions and Consequences 01:02:54 Moving to a New Environment 01:09:20 Struggles with Parental Relationships 01:18:20 Finding Independence and Purpose 01:25:06 A Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance   Follow Lacey on... FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KcubHXdVm/ SUBSTACK: https://laceygallear.substack.com/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #LaceyGallear #TrueStory #SurvivorStory #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #MentalHealthPodcast #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

Can the most destructive moments of your life actually become the foundation for your greatest success?   Jimmy Shin grew up in a turbulent home, navigating life as the child of immigrants while dealing with his father's alcoholism and physical abuse. Desperate to fit in and escape the intense pressure of his father's demand that he become a lawyer, Jimmy started stealing and selling alcohol in junior high, a path that soon escalated into a dangerous double life. By the time he reached law school, he was funding his lavish lifestyle by trafficking large quantities of drugs and working in real estate, believing he was untouchable until the 2008 financial crash stripped away his illusions of stability.   Chapters: 00:00 Survival Skills from a Toxic Environment 02:49 The Power of Storytelling in Recovery 06:04 Lessons from Rock Bottom 08:57 The Illusion of Stability and Success 11:46 Growing Up Immigrant: Struggles and Aspirations 15:02 The Allure of the Fast Life 17:47 The Impact of Addiction on Relationships 21:01 The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery 23:48 Rewriting Your Story 27:12 Courage in Surrendering Control 30:02 Finding Comedy in Adversity 31:27 The Courage to Perform 34:16 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Passion 36:37 The Struggles of Addiction and Recovery 42:10 Forgiveness and Family Dynamics 49:18 Transformative Power of Storytelling 54:32 Manifesting a New Life 01:01:11 Empowerment Through Self-Talk and Affirmations   Follow Jimmy Shin on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jimmyshinster TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamjimmyshin?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc FB: https://www.facebook.com/jimmyshin IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamjimmyshin/ Website: https://jimmyshindig.com/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #JimmyShin #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #TrueStory #OvercomingTrauma #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast #thecomedystore #laughfactory #hollywoodimprov #tacomacomedyclub

How do you save everyone else when you’re quietly drowning yourself?   Sergio Cardenas grew up navigating the challenges of a strict upbringing, childhood poverty, and moving across borders to escape the 1992 LA riots. Despite early academic struggles and a denied dream of becoming a doctor, he eventually found his true calling in emergency medicine. For years, Sergio served as a dedicated firefighter and flight nurse, even becoming the medical hero who helped save co-host Denise Powell's life in the back of a helicopter after her near-fatal car crash.Journey.   Chapters: 00:00 The Journey of Healing and Caregiving 03:03 The Impact of Personal Stories 05:54 The Role of a Flight Nurse 08:46 Childhood Influences and Aspirations 12:05 Navigating Nursing School 15:00 The Emotional Toll of Emergency Care 17:53 Lessons from Family and Hardship 20:48 The Importance of Mental Health in Healthcare 24:12 Finding Purpose in Adversity 35:11 The Journey of a Flight Nurse 38:31 Facing Job Loss and Identity Crisis 41:28 Seeking Help and the Power of Breathwork 46:52 Transformative Experiences and Self-Discovery 52:08 Healing Through Compassionate Inquiry 56:55 Embracing Emotions and Personal Growth 01:02:05 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 01:07:16 A Message of Hope and Kindness   Follow Sergio's social media accounts! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flylifts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sergio.cardenas.1884   Connect with Sergio: https://www.mictlanjourneysomatics.com/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #SergioCardenas #FirstResponderMentalHealth #SomaticBreathwork #OvercomingTrauma #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #FacebookWatch #firstresponder #mentalhealth

Is success a result of the "bootstrap" mentality, or is it simply the grace of being lucky?   In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell sits down with Jose Moreno, a high-level Public Relations executive who has navigated the high-stakes worlds of sports and politics. Jose pulls back the curtain on his "all-American" childhood in Anaheim, California, marked by the resilience of a single mother who left a respected but toxic father to give her children a better chance. Jose shares the raw reality of growing up in a multicultural melting pot where he learned early on to fight for those who couldn't fight for themselves, a trait that led to multiple school suspensions but eventually paved the way for his career as a protector and advocate.   Chapters: 00:00 The Importance of Sharing Stories 02:51 Childhood Experiences and Their Impact 06:11 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth 09:04 Professional Life and the Value of Giving Back 15:05 Dealing with Mortality and Grief 24:11 The Role of Therapy in Mental Health 29:52 The Power of Vulnerability and Community Support 36:10 Legacy and the Impact of Luck 39:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #JoseMoreno #TrueStory #Philanthropy #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #SportsPR #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast  

What if the brick wall you just hit isn't an end, but a beginning?   In this deeply insightful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell reconnects with her longtime friend and colleague, Michelle Valley. Michelle pulls back the curtain on a life defined by "Superwoman" tendencies—the habit of taking care of everyone else at the expense of herself. She shares the fascinating details of a childhood spent moving between Washington’s "Christmas Town USA" and England, a journey that forced her to "raise her father as much as he raised her." Michelle reflects on the collapse of a 17-year marriage that left her as a "zombie," and how she navigated the 2008 market crash while fighting a four-year custody battle with zero income.   Connect with Michelle Valley: Website: https://www.freedomcollaboration.com/about Facebook: Michelle Valley - Freedom Collaboration Facebook Group: Next Level Women's Circle Chapters: 00:00 Navigating Financial Challenges 01:05 The Birth of Freedom Collaboration 05:10 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics 09:55 Lessons from Relationships and Parenting 15:07 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Strength 19:54 The Journey to Financial Independence 25:00 The Impact of Toxic Relationships 30:05 Shifting from Victim to Empowered 35:11 Personal Growth and Spiritual Awakening 37:03 Transformative Experiences and Personal Growth 39:04 Taking Responsibility and Ownership 41:31 Energy Healing and Inner Reflection 44:16 Life-Altering Events and Career Changes 51:50 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change 56:52 Investing in Yourself and Finding Your Path 01:01:10 Gratitude in Adversity and Personal Insights 01:07:18 Understanding Abundance Beyond Finances 01:10:09 Empowering Others Through Collaboration   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #MichelleValley #TraumaticBrainInjury #TrueStory #OvercomingAdversity #FreedomCollaboration #EntrepreneurMindset #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

What if your greatest pain became your greatest purpose? In this powerful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, host Deanna Powell sits down with TEDx speaker, public speaking coach, and storytelling expert Erin Loman Jeck to share her deeply moving true story of resilience, grief, and transformation. From growing up in a small town in Idaho to training dolphins, Erin’s life took a heartbreaking turn after losing her father at age 10. Just years later, she faced another devastating challenge when her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer—forcing Erin into an adult role far too soon. This raw and emotional conversation explores childhood trauma, loss of a parent, navigating grief, and the strength it takes to rise through adversity. Erin shares how she turned pain into purpose—becoming a world-renowned communication coach, helping others find their voice, and stepping onto the TEDx stage to inspire thousands. If you’re searching for inspirational stories, grief recovery, overcoming adversity, personal growth, mental health, or a real life story podcast about resilience and transformation—this episode will move you. ✨ Topics include: grief and loss, childhood trauma, resilience, personal growth, divorce, parenting, public speaking, storytelling, and finding your voice. 👉 SUBSCRIBE to Intrepid Storytelling, and hit the notification BELL for powerful true stories, healing, and real conversations that remind you what’s possible. Connect with Erin Loman Jeck: Website: www.erinlomanjeck.com Facebook: Erin Loman Jeck Speaker Coach LinkedIn: Erin Loman Jeck Instagram: @erinlomanjeck Chapters: 00:00 The Impact of Early Responsibility 09:07 The Journey of Storytelling and Communication 19:27 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Strength 23:45 Pursuing Dreams Against All Odds 33:13 Negotiation Skills in Parenting 35:08 Personal Growth Through Relationships 39:31 Lessons from Marriage and Divorce 41:21 Navigating Grief and Loss in Relationships 49:42 Emotional Expression and Parenting 51:06 Transitioning from Social Work to Public Speaking 59:33 Living Fully Expressed and Sharing Your Story Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling 🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected] #IntrepidStorytelling #ErinLomanJeck #TEDxSpeaker #OvercomingGrief #SurvivorStory #PublicSpeakingCoach #TrueStory #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #tedtalk #tedtalks

What do you do when the rug is pulled out from under you and you lose everything you’ve ever worked for, including your freedom and your name? In this powerhouse episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell sits down with Dr. Angelo Reynolds, a man whose life journey reads like a masterclass in resilience. Dr. Reynolds shares the harrowing details of how his thriving mental health practice was decimated overnight due to a fraudulent partnership he unknowingly entered. Faced with 42 counts of fraud and the threat of decades in prison, he describes the gut-wrenching decision to take a plea deal for a crime he didn’t commit just to stay with his wife and newborn son. This choice left him as a convicted felon, unemployable for seven years, and forced to sell books out of the trunk of his car to survive. Chapters: 00:00 The Unforeseen Downfall 10:12 The Plea Deal Dilemma 20:12 Resilience Through Adversity 29:58 The Journey to Redemption 34:13 Embracing Life's Lessons 37:08 The Impact of Family Dynamics 38:30 Transforming Lives in the Penal System 41:16 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Stories 46:06 Building a Business from Experience 50:01 Lessons Learned from Business Challenges 52:27 Mentoring and Supporting Reentry 56:14 The Ripple Effect of Helping Others 01:01:01 The Power of Hard Work and Resilience 01:03:21 Protecting Your Peace and Managing Trauma Connect with Dr. Angelo Reynolds: Website: https://angeloreynolds-7l3j.vercel.app/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transformersacademy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mypo2003 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformers_academy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mypo2003 PURCHASE: A Transforming You on Amazon here https://amzn.to/4bNGHUL PURCHASE: The Act of Change on Amazon here https://amzn.to/3P6Ps4t PURCHASE: Overcoming Obstacles, Beating the Odds on Amazon here https://amzn.to/4seK4uK   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #DrAngeloReynolds #FromFelonToPhD #Resilience #TrueStory #MentalHealthAdvocate #HopeDealer #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #SuccessMindset

(Part 2) What do you do when you’ve lost almost everything, and the only person left to save you is yourself?   In this visceral and deeply moving episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell sits down with Cierra Madill to pull back the curtain on a journey defined by both profound loss and radical self-honesty. Cierra opens up about the "messy" middle of recovery, the part of the story that isn't always linear. She speaks candidly about the spiral that followed a devastating custody battle, leading to twelve days on a bathroom floor lost to alcoholism, and the jarring culture shock of leaving mental health rehab only to find herself at "dry bone raw zero" with no car, no job, and no home.   Connect with Cierra Madill: Website: https://littlethingsphotographyutah.mypixieset.com/ Instagram: @littlethingsphotoandvideo Facebook: Cierra Madill   Follow her YouTube Channel "Tell No One But The Internet"! https://youtube.com/@tellnoonebuttheinternet?si=nuHhdK4xKjfHfIXz   ✨ PURCHASE FIND THE GOOD MERCH: https://findthegoodbrand.com/?ref=intrepidstorytelling   Chapters:   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #CierraMadill #MentalHealthAwareness #BPDRecovery #SuicidePrevention #SurvivorStory #RadicalAuthenticity #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #TrueStory

(Part 1) What happens when the people who are supposed to love you the most leave you behind, and the justice system strips away the one thing keeping you alive?   Cierra Madill grew up believing she didn't belong anywhere, battling a profound sense of isolation as she was shuttled back and forth between divorced parents. After being abandoned by her mother due to a severe drug addiction, she spent her formative years navigating instability and searching for a safe home. Forced to be resilient long before she should have had to be, Cierra fought through a maze of mental health crises, including a five-week stay in a psych ward, just to survive a chaotic world.   Seeking the love and connection she was denied early on, Cierra often found herself navigating dangerous situations, eventually falling into a deeply abusive and controlling polyamorous relationship. Despite enduring severe physical and emotional violence at the hands of a narcissistic partner, she fought fiercely to escape in order to protect herself and her children. She successfully rebuilt her life, gaining financial stability and full custody of her son, but her most difficult and heart-wrenching battle was still waiting for her.   In a devastating turn of events, the court system stripped Cierra of her custody rights to her young son, penalizing her for having an OnlyFans account while turning a blind eye to her ex-partner's documented history of domestic violence. In this unflinchingly raw episode, Cierra opens up about the crushing, agonizing grief of losing her boy, her subsequent spiral into deep depression and alcoholism, and the brutal reality of hitting rock bottom. This is not a neatly packaged story with a perfect ending—it is a gritty, courageous look at survival, accountability, and the painful process of putting one foot in front of the other when your heart is shattered.   Chapters: 00:00 Journey of Belonging and Self-Discovery 02:59 The Impact of Childhood Experiences 05:49 Navigating Family Dynamics and Relationships 09:11 The Struggles of Adolescence and Identity 12:02 The Role of Resilience in Overcoming Trauma 14:52 The Transition to Young Adulthood 17:56 Confronting Addiction and Family Challenges 20:53 The Search for Independence and Self-Expression 23:48 The Complexity of Relationships and Personal Growth 27:06 Finding Strength in Vulnerability 39:38 Navigating Early Adulthood and Relationships 48:41 The Impact of Parental Guidance 51:35 Dreams, Goals, and Unexpected Turns 01:01:22 Overcoming Toxic Relationships and Personal Growth 01:18:17 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships 01:21:28 The Impact of Narcissistic Relationships 01:24:53 Lessons Learned from Heartbreak 01:27:42 Navigating Life as a Single Parent 01:30:31 The Struggles of Custody and Control 01:34:12 The Emotional Toll of Losing a Child 01:39:50 Financial Struggles and Consequences 01:45:33 Finding Strength Amidst Adversity 01:56:13 Taking Responsibility for Our Actions   FOLLOW CIERRA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlethingsphotoandvideo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cierra.madill website: https://littlethingsphotographyutah.mypixieset.com/   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #CierraMadill #TrueStory #SurvivorStory #NarcissisticAbuse #CustodyBattle #MentalHealthPodcast #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

What if the hardest seasons of your life were actually the blueprints for your greatest success?   In this deep-dive episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell welcomes Kendall Patterson, a holistic success mentor and "multi-passionate entrepreneur" who has navigated a life defined by radical shifts and remarkable survival. Kendall opens up about a childhood she describes as "colorful," which included being raised by a single father after being removed from her mother's care due to physical abuse. She shares the harrowing details of a mother she lost twice: first to the cycles of addiction and trauma, and later to a seven-month coma caused by a brutal assault that left her mother physically alive but mentally a stranger.   Today, Kendall has transmuted her pain into a mission to help others. By integrating tools like human design, astrology, and radical self-acknowledgment, she mentors women on how to break generational cycles and find their "holistic success." This conversation isn't just a recount of obstacles; it is a profound exploration of the belief that life happens for us, not to us. Kendall reminds us that while we cannot change our beginnings, we are fully capable of rewiring our future and becoming the person our "younger self" always needed.   Chapters here: 00:00 Navigating Childhood Trauma 05:45 The Journey of a Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur 12:00 The Impact of Maternal Relationships 18:02 Adolescence and Shifting Family Dynamics 24:14 Breaking Free from Toxic Relationships 30:05 Lessons Learned from Heartbreak and Healing 40:32 Understanding Boundaries and Solitude 46:17 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth 51:43 The Impact of Trauma and Healing 01:00:41 Lessons Learned and Life Messages   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected]   #IntrepidStorytelling #KendallPatterson #TraumaHealing #HumanDesign #SuccessMentor #GenerationalWealth #StorytellingPodcast #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch

In this episode, a successful entrepreneur shares how losing his father fueled a journey from real estate and mortgage success to launching Off Leash’d, the pet-lover match app taking over phones everywhere. This is a raw conversation about loss, ambition, legacy, and why sometimes the biggest ideas come from the hardest seasons. Terry's success story is one of family, loss, and grit—and leads to real estate wealth, mortgage mastery, and founding the viral pet match app Off Leash’d. We break down entrepreneurship, startup mindset, tech innovation, and how turning personal pain into purpose can build a brand, a business, and a movement pet lovers can’t get enough of. CONTACT TERRY JAMES: OffLeash'd   Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Email us at: [email protected]

What is left of your life when the community you built and the faith you preached both disappear in an instant? In this deeply honest episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna Powell sits down with former pastor Ryan Meeks and his wife, Michelle. Ryan shares the raw reality of what happened when his evangelical church, Eastlake Community Church, imploded after he announced they would fully affirm the LGBTQIA+ community. The fallout was immediate and devastating—a wave of backlash, the loss of his livelihood, and the painful unraveling of a faith system that no longer felt like home. Just as Ryan was beginning to navigate the debris of his deconstruction, life delivered another blow: a lymphoma cancer diagnosis. Facing his own mortality while still healing from spiritual trauma forced Ryan to look past religious doctrine and search for a deeper meaning. Together, Ryan and Michelle discuss the difficult journey of spiritual reconstruction, moving from the rigid certainty of the church to a more inclusive, fragile, and beautiful understanding of what it means to be alive. This conversation is a powerful exploration of church hurt, LGBTQIA+ affirmation, and the search for hope after a religious "death." Ryan’s journey proves that even when the buildings fall and the old beliefs fade, love can remain the steady foundation for a new life. Whether you are questioning your own faith or facing an unexpected life crisis, this story is a reminder that while certainty may disappear, love is the point. PURCHASE RYAN'S BOOK HERE: https://amzn.to/40d50FT Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Early Doubts About Faith 01:22 - Formative Years: Faith, Youth Group, and Purity Culture 02:22 - The Growing 'Doubt Basket' and Questioning Core Beliefs 03:35 - Building East Lake Community Church: Growth and Radical Inclusion 05:22 - Personal Crisis: Cancer, Burnout, and Final Deconstruction 06:17 - Embracing Embodiment, Nature, and a Life Message of Love Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling 🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email [email protected] #IntrepidStorytelling #RyanMeeks #FaithDeconstruction #LGBTQIAAffirmation #ReligiousTrauma #InclusiveChristianity #CancerSurvivor #PodcastYouTube #FacebookWatch #StorytellingPodcast

They bought a house in Bothell, Washington… and something else came with it. In this true paranormal podcast episode, a couple reveals the unexplained events, ghostly encounters, and haunting experiences that turned everyday life into a constant state of unease. If you love real haunted house stories, Pacific Northwest paranormal activity, and true ghost encounters—this episode will stay with you long after the final word. PURCHASE KEITH'S BOOK HERE: https://amzn.to/4rxmI2O   Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Email us at: [email protected]

In this transformative episode, Shelise Ann Sola, host of the popular podcast and YouTube show Cults to Consciousness, opens up about her deeply personal faith transition and deconstruction from LDS Mormonism. Raised in a devout Mormon household and immersed in the cultural expectations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Shelise spent years following rules, suppressing doubts, and striving to be the “perfect” member. But beneath the surface, questions were growing—questions about doctrine, identity, purity culture, patriarchy, and the pressure to conform within a high-demand religious system. Shelise shares what it was really like to confront her faith crisis, unlearn fear-based teachings, navigate relationships during deconstruction, and rediscover her authentic self outside the LDS church. This conversation dives into: Religious trauma and recovery Purity culture in Mormonism Undoing indoctrination and reclaiming identity Life after leaving high-control religion Healing, empowerment, and conscious living If you’re navigating your own faith transition, curious about the realities of Mormon deconstruction, or simply love powerful stories of courage and awakening, this episode is for you. Follow Cults To Consciousness on YouTube: PLEASE SUBSCRIBE! https://www.youtube.com/@CultstoConsciousness   YouTube Facebook Instagram [email protected]

This is a real-life comeback story you won’t forget. Once trapped in addiction and felony convictions, she hit rock bottom and checked herself into the Salvation Army—then did the work to completely transform her life. In this episode, we explore addiction recovery, life after prison, and how she defied the odds to become one of the most successful real estate agents in Seattle. If you believe in second chances, personal growth, and unstoppable resilience, this episode is for you.   Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Email us at: [email protected]

This is a shorter episode from the Intrepid Storytelling live event. On February 6, 2023, Alicia Brown’s life was forever transformed when a ruptured brain aneurysm and stroke during surgery stole her ability to speak, write, spell, and function. In this powerful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Alicia opens up about the month she spent in the hospital relearning the basics of life, from opening her left eye to taking her first steps toward independence again. Through pain, humility, and isolation, she discovered an unshakable resilience and a will to fight she never knew existed. Join us as Alicia shares her inspirational recovery story—a testament to courage, hope, and the power of perseverance in the face of unimaginable loss. YouTube Facebook Instagram [email protected]

This gripping episode is Part 3 of a series that was started by Leila Culberson, who's story was told in Part 1 and Part 2 - Surviving The Unthinkable: A Mother's True Story Of Betrayal, Abuse, Fentanyl Loss, the Courage to Heal and Take Action. If you haven't listened to those episodes yet, head there first and come here for Part 3, Cash Nimmer-Culberson's True Story. For years, one man controlled the story. And for years, everyone believed him. Behind closed doors, he was sexually abusing his children — a father exploiting power, silence, and fear. In public, he was spinning lies, manipulating perception, and rewriting history while his victims were left unheard and unprotected. Until now. In this episode, a teenage survivor speaks publicly for the first time about childhood sexual abuse, family betrayal, and the devastating impact of gaslighting when the abuser is believed and the children are not. He shares what it was like growing up in a home where truth was punished, silence was enforced, and manipulation masked itself as authority. This is not a polished story. It is not easy to hear. And it is not meant to be comfortable. It is the reality of what happens when abuse goes unchecked — and what it takes to reclaim your voice after years of being erased. This episode is about: Childhood sexual, physical & emotional abuse by a parent The psychological damage of manipulation and gaslighting The courage it takes to speak when the world already chose a side Breaking generational cycles of abuse Telling the truth when it costs you everything This is not his father’s story anymore. This is the truth — told by the person who lived it.

This is PART 2 of a 2 part series with Michelle Troll. Don't miss hearing her first episode where she talks about her experience escaping domestic violence and an ex-husband who went on to murder his next victim. In this inspiring episode, Michelle Troll shares her courageous journey through years of unexplained symptoms, medical confusion, and the emotional fight to finally receive an accurate diagnosis: multiple sclerosis (MS). Michelle opens up about the frustration of not being believed, the fear of not knowing what was happening inside her body, and the life-changing moment everything finally made sense. But Michelle’s story didn’t end with a diagnosis — it ignited a new purpose. With fierce determination, she rebuilt her life through nutrition, strength training, and a commitment to pushing her body in healthy, empowering ways. What began as a fight for answers transformed into a passion for weightlifting, eventually leading her to compete in fitness competitions and inspire others living with chronic illness. Listeners will learn about: The challenges of seeking a diagnosis for invisible and unexplained symptoms What it’s like to finally hear “you have multiple sclerosis” How mindset, nutrition, and strength training became Michelle’s turning point The journey from patient to MS warrior and competitive fitness athlete Finding meaning, empowerment, and community after an MS diagnosis This episode is perfect for those navigating chronic illness, searching for hope, or looking for a powerful reminder that a diagnosis doesn’t define you — but what you do next can change everything. Email Michelle at [email protected] Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Contact us: [email protected]

This is PART 1 of a 2 part series with Michelle Troll. Stay tuned for PART 2 where she talks about a shocking health diagnosis and her determination to overcome multiple sclerosis (MS)! In this powerful episode, we sit down with survivor and advocate Michelle Troll as she courageously recounts her escape from domestic violence at the hands of James Joseph Cain — a man who would later go on to murder one of his next girlfriends. Michelle shares her raw, real, and emotional journey of trauma, manipulation, survival, and ultimately reclaiming her life after escaping a dangerous abuser. Through her story, listeners will gain insight into the red flags of coercive control, the escalating patterns of domestic violence, the psychological grip of abuse, and the life-saving moment she found the strength to leave. Michelle’s testimony sheds light on the terrifying reality that many victims face and the critical importance of awareness, intervention, and support systems. This episode is perfect for those seeking true crime survivor stories, domestic violence awareness, trauma recovery, empowerment, and real-life accounts of escaping abusive partners who escalate to lethal violence. Michelle’s voice stands as a beacon of hope for others trapped in silence — proving that survival is possible, and breaking free can save your life. Find Michelle on: Michelle's Instagram Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Contact us: [email protected]

In this powerful episode, author, humanitarian, and community advocate Larry J Snyder opens up about one of the most challenging chapters of his life—caring for his aging parents as they battled dementia. Known as a “hope dealer,” Larry has spent his life uplifting others, but nothing prepared him for the emotional, physical, and spiritual weight of watching the two people who shaped him slowly slip away. Larry shares the raw truth of navigating dementia caregiving, from the heartbreaking moments to the unexpected blessings found in connection, patience, and love. He talks about the guilt, the grief, the impossible decisions, and the resilience required to keep showing up day after day. Through his story, listeners gain insight into family caregiving, eldercare challenges, Alzheimer’s and dementia realities, and the importance of hope, advocacy, and community support. This is a conversation about legacy, compassion, and the courage it takes when the roles reverse—when we become the caregivers for the people who once cared for us. Larry’s story reminds us that even in the darkest chapters, there is still room for purpose, grace, and hope. Contact Larry: [email protected] Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Contact: [email protected]

This is a shorter episode from the Intrepid Storytelling live event. In this inspiring episode of Intrepid Storytelling, we meet Denise, a former elementary and middle school educator who transformed her life and career after surviving a near-fatal automobile accident in 2009. Her path from teaching to thriving in the mortgage industry is a powerful story of resilience, determination, and personal growth. After enduring both physical and emotional challenges, Denise refused to let tragedy define her. With the help of unexpected allies, unwavering faith, and an unbreakable spirit, she rebuilt her life stronger than ever. Her story reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope, healing, and purpose on the other side of adversity. Tune in to hear how courage, community, and perseverance can turn unimaginable hardship into a story of triumph—and why Denise now believes that sometimes, life’s biggest detours lead us exactly where we’re meant to be. Find Denise: Denise's Facebook Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Contact: [email protected]

In this inspiring episode of Intrepid Storytelling, I sit down with Sherilynn Hemphill, a true warrior who has faced and overcome unimaginable challenges. From battling cancer to enduring more than ten surgeries and living through two ileostomies, Sher’s journey is one of courage, faith, and unshakable resilience. Today, as a cancer survivor and proud ileostomy warrior, she shares her story with nearly 30,000 TikTok followers, inspiring others to embrace hope and strength through life’s hardest battles. Tune in as Sher reveals how she turned her pain into purpose, proving that even in the darkest times, the human spirit can rise, heal, and shine. Follow Sher's TikTok Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram Contact: [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, we follow the inspiring journey of Joanie Elisabeth who transformed deep childhood neglect into unshakable strength. Drawn for years to men with narcissistic traits, she found herself trapped in cycles of emotional manipulation, gaslighting, and self-doubt. But through courage, therapy, and radical self-awareness, she learned to recognize the red flags, break free from toxic relationships, and rebuild her identity from the inside out. Now a thriving mental health and empowerment coach, she dedicates her life to helping other women heal from narcissistic abuse, reclaim their confidence, and step into their authentic power. This is a story of resilience, awakening, and freedom—a reminder that no matter where you come from, you can rewrite your story and rise resolutely fearless. Contact Joanie: Wellness With Joanie   Find us on: YouTube Facebook Instagram   Contact: [email protected]

In this powerful episode on Interrupted: Act 2 (reinventing your life) Podcast with Laurie Hardie, Deanna Powell opens up about her courageous journey from surviving abusive relationships and battling alcoholism to rebuilding her life with unwavering determination. After choosing sobriety and taking small, steady steps forward, Deanna turned to community resources like 211, Hopelink, and Catholic Community Services, slowly piecing together a foundation of stability, hope, and healing. Her story highlights the transformative power of recovery, self-worth, and resilience as she worked tirelessly to reclaim her future. Despite believing motherhood was beyond her reach, Deanna’s intrepid spirit, persistence, and faith in her own growth helped her achieve the most meaningful dream she ever held—to become a mom. Today, she is living the life she once thought was impossible, proving that with courage, support, and a refusal to give up, anyone can rise from rock bottom and rewrite their story. Which is also why she started her OWN podcast, Intrepid Storytelling. This episode is a testament to survivorship, sobriety, empowerment, and the unstoppable strength of hope.   Help more stories get to more ears --> Donate to Intrepid Storytelling Subscribe on: YouTube Find us on: Facebook Instagram   Contact: [email protected]

This is a short episode from the Intrepid Storytelling live event. Born into a sheltered, fundamentalist Christian upbringing, Deanna Powell was taught that women and children were to be seen, not heard—and that a woman’s purpose was to serve men, marry, and have children. Naïve to the world and lacking boundaries, she became a target for predators, enduring sexually abusive relationships and three failed marriages. Struggling with addiction, her life took a dramatic turn on June 20th, 2012, when she got sober and began reclaiming her voice and self-worth. Choosing to embrace life on her terms, she became a single mom at 41 through IVF, then a foster mom, ultimately adopting two siblings. Her story is a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the power of rewriting your own narrative. This episode is for anyone seeking hope, courage, and the reminder that giving up is never an option. YouTube Facebook Instagram [email protected]

This is PART 2, and if you haven't listened to PART 1 yet, you'll want to do that first. In this deeply moving episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna sits down with Leila Culberson, a courageous mother whose life was shattered by unthinkable betrayal and loss — discovering her husband had been sexually abusing their children, and later facing the heartbreaking death of her teenage daughter to fentanyl poisoning. Out of unimaginable pain, she chose a path of healing, advocacy, and empowerment. Today, she leads a nonprofit that helps survivors reclaim their voices and turn their pain into power. This episode is a raw, emotional, and inspiring testament to resilience, bravery, and the unbreakable strength of a mother’s love. If you’ve ever wondered how light can emerge from the darkest places, this story will remind you of the power of purpose, hope, and courage to rise again. DONATE TO LEILA'S FOUNDATION Help more stories get to more ears --> Donate to Intrepid Storytelling Subscribe on: YouTube Find us on: Facebook Instagram   Contact: [email protected]

This is PART 1 of a 2 part series. In this deeply moving episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Deanna sits down with Leila Culberson, a courageous mother whose life was shattered by unthinkable betrayal and loss — discovering her husband had been sexually abusing their children, and later facing the heartbreaking death of her teenage daughter to fentanyl poisoning. Out of unimaginable pain, she chose a path of healing, advocacy, and empowerment. Today, she leads a nonprofit that helps survivors reclaim their voices and turn their pain into power. This is a raw, emotional, and inspiring testament to resilience, bravery, and the unbreakable strength of a mother’s love. If you’ve ever wondered how light can emerge from the darkest places, this story will remind you of the power of purpose, hope, and courage to rise again. DONATE TO LEILA'S FOUNDATION Help more stories get to more ears --> Donate to Intrepid Storytelling Subscribe on: YouTube Find us on: Facebook Instagram   Contact: [email protected]

Intrepid Storytelling Podcast with Deanna Powell — Real Stories. Raw Truth. Unbreakable Spirit. The Intrepid Storytelling Podcast is a powerful, truth-driven space where host Deanna Powell dives deep into the human experience through real, unfiltered, and transformational stories. Each episode features courageous individuals who have faced adversity, trauma, resilience, healing, reinvention, and personal breakthroughs. From survival and recovery to empowerment and purpose, this podcast uncovers the lessons, wisdom, and inspiration hidden within life’s most challenging chapters. Whether it’s overcoming abuse, battling illness, rebuilding after loss, or finding your voice after silence, these stories remind us of the strength we all carry. Perfect for listeners who crave authentic storytelling, personal growth, healing journeys, resilience narratives, and inspiring conversations that spark hope and change. Join Deanna each week as she amplifies voices that deserve to be heard and celebrates the bold, brave, and intrepid spirit within us all. YouTube Facebook Instagram [email protected]