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Push Diaries Podcast

by Push Diaries Podcast

A podcast about people going through difficult experiences & how we push through. This isn’t only my story but ours. I want to hear your stories. Thank you for listening!

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Apr 15, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Ep. 43: Grief Share with Jan Fennern

    Jan Fennern knows what it is like to lose someone incredibly close. She knows how hard the "firsts" can be, including holidays, and building new memories---but she has never lost her faith and hope for the goodness of the future. She is a Godly woman who was married to a strong husband who was...

  2. Ep.42: Tess Is Going Back to Work! The Ticket to Work Program

    The Social Security Administration has benefits for people out of work and disabled. Tess shares her personal journey surrounding Social Security Disability and covers everything you wanted to know regarding: The Basics About Disability Benefits, SSA’s Ticket to Work Program, What Are the Rules…

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  3. Ep.41: Laura

    Hey, Everyone! In Michigan, it feels like summer finally! The sun and hot weather is welcomed here. April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Nearly half a million people every year are victims of sexual assault or rape in the United States. These same...

  4. Ep.40: Kim

    Kim is a mom who knows what it is like to celebrate the birth of a child and morn the loss of another. She has struggled with unhealthy relationships in the past that had put her in a dark place. She bravely pulled herself out of crippling suicidal ideation and wants to share her story. Kim wants...

  5. Ep.39: IS IT ALL ABOUT ME OR IS IT ALL ABOUT YOU? Pt.2

    My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes back on the podcast for Part 2 to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely...

  6. Ep.38: IS IT ALL ABOUT ME OR IS IT ALL ABOUT YOU? Pt.1

    My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes on the podcast again to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual....

  7. Ep.36: IVF Life with Anne, Pt. 2

    Anne is focused and optimistic as she looks at a future she has created for herself, quite literally sprouting with opportunity. When someone told her 'No' she went on to discover another way. I am so invested in bringing her story to your ears while honoring a safe place she can share it. It is...

  8. Ep.37: Hospice Diaries with KaLee (from Knute Nelson)

    KaLee is my previous colleague from Knute Nelson Hospice of Alexandria, MN. We worked together 3 wonderful-yet short months in 2014. I was hired to be Knute Nelson's Lead Social Worker and was absolutely thriving in my job when I recieved a horrible diagnosis of disease and would soon face the...

  9. Ep.35: Shelby Is BACK and Talks About Self Care

    Last year was tough on everyone. How are you focusing on slowing down and taking care of yourself? Then, how do we care for our kids or family members? Self pity is human nature. So is sadness in difficult times. Grace is important. Shelby is back to talk to us about overcoming addiction…

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  10. Ep.34: Life, Cancer, Etc. with Heidi Bragg

    Episode 34: Life, Cancer, Etc. with Heidi Bragg @lifecanceretc Heidi Bragg had me on her podcast (Life, Cancer, Etc) to hear more about my story with cancer and my decision to become paralyzed and a wheelchair user but survive. It was an awesome interview. She shares more about her story too but…

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  11. Ep. 33: IVF Life with Anne, Pt. 1

    Anne is the 3rd eldest child her parents decided to adopt but never had a relationship with her birth parents. She had an excellent experience growing up with her adoptive family. The example of healthy relationships her parents so carefully displayed is a major catalyst to why she is now…

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  12. Ep.32: My Layover Life with Paul Holte

    (The son of the eye doctor extraordinaire) Paul says he wants to teach his kids to fly planes but not just anyone. I tell him I want to learn, and he agrees. That is what we call Minnesota nice, folks. Come hear about how Paul got the passion for flying all because his dad loved him and wanted…

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  13. Ep.31: Macy (my Helping Paws service dog with Dawn, Brian, & Eileen)

    In 2015 my family applied to Helping Paws to get me a service dog. I am so blessed that they had confidence in the organization and myself to find an excellent match that would greatly impact my recovery after cancer and my ever changing independence. Eileen started helping paws 35 years ago and…

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  14. Ep.30: Kelly Brush Foundation

    At 19 years of age, Kelly was a sophomore in college and was in an awful skiing accident that left her paralyzed. Today, she describes her life of resilience and how she came to create her foundation (while also being a mom) AND a pediatric nurse. Tess was the recipient of a grant gifted by the...

  15. Episode 29: Adam Schomer

    "The True Invitation of this life is to discover the truth of who you are. And that's the only thing that will set us Free. Because the truth of who you are is incomparable to any image you have of yourself." - Anand Mehrotra . "Happiness and Kindness need no reason at all.” - Buddhist Proverb....

  16. Ep. 28: Kenz

    Makenzie and Devon were enjoying a beautiful Sunday when the unthinkable happened. Their motorcycle lost control and sent them flying. Kenz was able to use her Apple watch to call for an ambulance before losing consciousness as her body was bleeding out in a ditch at rapid speed. Thankfully, they...

  17. Episode 27: Dan for Dare2Tri

    Hey Everyone! Thanks for being here and being so awesome. I see your encouragement and am so thankful. Dan from Dare2Tri came on the podcast to talk about his organization he created with 2 friends, Karrie and Melissa. Be sure to head back to 'Episode 12: Melissa' to hear her incredible story of...

  18. Ep 26: December 2020 Funsies

    We wanted to bring you some joy this holiday season with some light hearted fun. Come talk the holidays with Tess, Ty, and Heather on this uplifting episode! Head back to Episode 2 to hear Heather's episode and visit patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to have access to exclusive content. Be sure to...

  19. Ep. 25: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt. 3

    If you haven't listened to Part 1 and 2 with Carmen, head back to episode 22 and 23 to listen to those first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing her knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part…

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  20. Episode 24: Eva

    100 years ago, 6-year-old Ruby went to an all white school for the very first time escorted by 4 US Marshalls because there were white protesters that didn’t want her to go to public (desegregating) school. Come along on the journey as Eva from the small town of St. Charles MN shares her…

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  21. Ep.23: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt 2

    If you haven't listened to Part 1 with Carmen, head back 1 episode to listen to that first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing your knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 3 coming soon.

  22. Ep. 22: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt 1.

    My incredible therapist has granted exclusive access on how to handle our changing beliefs as we age and go throughout life to my podcast listeners! I'm so grateful for a therapist who sees the value in sharing stories and knowledge with those who could benefit from it. Thank you for being here.…

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  23. Episode 21: Blacktop Billy (My Dad)

    Host Tess’s dad shares his experience working for Wenonah Canoe as a retired man post a career being a teacher while actually on the road with Tess! He goes into detail about when Tess was first diagnosed with a chondroblastic osteosarcoma and the immediate loss of her lower body’s ability. Billy...

  24. Episode 20: Jeff and Barb

    Episode 20: Jeff and Barb met on an airplane 5 years ago. Little did they know, they would quickly fall in love, and become each other's family. Listen to their incredible story of resilience and overcoming despite awful run-ins with cancer. Jeff & Barb hope you feel inspired to never stop…

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  25. Ep. 19: Zach for ReWalk

    ReWalk Robotics is an incredible company that makes exoskeletons for people who can no longer walk due to complications with their health. Hear from the guru himself, Zachary Waugh, on how he became a professional with the company and a man forever changed and inspired by it. Push Diaries Podcast...

  26. Episode 18: Rabbit Hole with Jess & Tess (2)

    Please be aware that adult language is used in the making of this episode. Shield tiny ears. Jessie comes on the podcast to chat again since Episode 7 to catch up about life and some other unscripted fun! We discuss the podcast, how I edit/interview, Jessie's work, things that have been on our...

  27. Episode 17: Lily

    Lily is one of Host Tess’s best friends from high school who has been serving the public since before she graduated high school. Lily is the 2nd child born out of 5 and has always had a passion for taking care of those around her. Lily’s first job was a lifeguard for the community pool, and her...

  28. Episode 16: Erica

    Erica fell in love with running and her husband Joe from Hastings Minnesota when she was in her early 20s. They wanted to start a family but had no idea what challenges would be ahead of them before growing their family. Erica was ecstatic and shocked when she peed on a stick and found out she…

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  29. Episode 15: Manasseh (Ness)

    Manasseh is the director and creator of Hope Fuse in Rochester, MN, which instills hope in at-risk youth while providing diverse mentor-ship. Success has not come to him easily but with the confidence from excellent parents, structure from sports with hard work, and the faith to do good has got…

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  30. Episode 14: Mike Mac

    Mike Mac is a Music Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Songwriter. He currently lives, works, and plays in a suburb near LA. Mike had to learn at a young age how to be resilient over his physical situation and lean into his mental and emotional strength. His story is nothing short of incredible,...

  31. Ep. 13: Ashlin and Josiah

    Ashlin and Josiah met and wrestled with what Christ wanted for them individually before joining them together in holy union. Their journey through self-worth, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty of health is an intimate one we are blessed to witness. Ashlin and Josiah want you to know you are...

  32. Episode 12: Melissa

    Melissa Stockwell went to Baghdad when she was 24 years old and lost her leg to a roadside bomb. This is a bonus episode for the 4th of July. Have a lovely weekend everyone! Be sure to head to pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/melissa to learn more and get connected. Thank you so much for listening!

  33. Episode 11: Tasha

    Tasha Schuh broke her neck after a horrific fall during a school play when she was only 16. Today she helps students and people of all ages learn about resiliency. She is the author of 2 books and is a mentor in the disability community. Come along with us and be a part of the conversation with...

  34. Episode 10: Kelsey

    Kelsey dove into a 3 foot lake in a lapsed-reality split-second decision that forever changed her life. She traveled all over the country to find the answers around healing and paralysis. PBS is featuring her documentary about her journey on their networks. SUBMERGED, COMING SOON. Her story is...

  35. Episode 9: Anton

    "There is a dynamic and surging movement to revitalize Ojibwe and other indigenous languages. Work like this is a team effort with many, many contributors—language warriors every one of them. I am truly humbled, honored, and inspired to a part of the team. Miigwech gakina giinawaa anokiitameg...

  36. Episode 8: Shelby

    Shelby woke up a morning after drinking and had no idea how she got there or why she was in a hospital. Purchase The Big Book to start overcoming today. Time is precious but most importantly---yours. Be sure to check pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/shelby to see the links, story, and photos from...

  37. Episode 7: Rabbit Hole w/Jess & Tess

    JESSIE IS A CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITIONIST & SHE IS TESS' FRIEND! COME HANG OUT! **PLEASE BE AWARE THAT SOME ADULT LANGUAGE IS USED.** Released Spring 5/1/20, Recorded Jan. 2020

  38. Episode 6: Ashlan

    Come listen to Episode 6! Ashlan's story of her dad's cancer journey, marriage, finding her faith, having kids, and coming to the decision with her husband Matt to adopt is nothing short of inspiring. Welcome to the family, Isaiah! If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum...

  39. Episode 5: Abri

    The Team Abri Foundation started around 2015 when Nikkole and Abri, a mother and daughter facing childhood cancer, limb salvage surgery, and amputation decided to help other families facing the same immense difficulty. They believe hugely in trusting God to provide them and other families…

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  40. Episode 4: Jacob

    Mimi Lemay is an advocate, woman of faith, mother, strong believer in freedom, strength, truth, and love, but most of all a voice for the LGBTQ community.

  41. Episode 3, Pt.2: David

    Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual...

  42. Episode 3, Pt.1: David

    Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual...

  43. Ep. 2: Heather

    This is Heather’s story. It was very hard for her to share. Trusting God or the universe with our lives is never easy. Heather is honest and unreserved despite the turmoil of her situation. She wants you to know about the genetic disease her family faces daily called Metachromatic Leukodystrophy.…

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  44. Episode 1: Annette

    Annette Ross was featured on the recent HBO documentary called Any One of Us. She was paralyzed by an epidural gone wrong. This has been a Push Diaries Podcast. I’m creating a collection of stories showcasing resilient people who overcome unimaginable hardships while finding beauty in the ups and...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

A podcast about people going through difficult experiences & how we push through. This isn’t only my story but ours. I want to hear your stories. Thank you for listening!

HOSTED BY

Push Diaries Podcast

Produced by Tess

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Push Diaries Podcast have?

Push Diaries Podcast currently has 44 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Push Diaries Podcast about?

A podcast about people going through difficult experiences & how we push through. This isn’t only my story but ours. I want to hear your stories. Thank you for listening!

How often does Push Diaries Podcast release new episodes?

Push Diaries Podcast has 44 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Push Diaries Podcast?

You can listen to Push Diaries Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Push Diaries Podcast?

Push Diaries Podcast is created and hosted by Push Diaries Podcast.
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