Tattoos of My Soul

In this powerful and deeply honest episode, I’m joined by Dr. Amelia Kelley, trauma-informed therapist, author, podcaster, researcher, certified meditation and yoga instructor, author of Powered by ADHD, and an expert in trauma, neuroplasticity, and emotional healing.Together, we unpack what trauma really is (hint: it’s not just the “big” stuff), how to reframe stress and anxiety as signals—not enemies—and why healing means completing the trauma cycle, not just surviving the event.We dive into:🔄 How unfinished trauma shows up years later (and what to do about it)🧠 The truth about ADHD as a superpower, especially in women🧘‍♀️ The mind-gut connection and why healing often starts in the body❤️‍🔥 How to rewire your brain with self-compassion, breathwork, and small daily habits📚 Why emotional strength isn’t about pushing through—it’s about honoring your wiringWhether you're walking through anxiety, recovering from trauma, or just want to feel more empowered in your mental health, this episode is for you.✨ This is the most personal, practical, and perspective-shifting conversation we’ve had yet.

In the latest episode of the Tattoos of My Soul podcast, I sit down with Courtney Grabill — a friend, someone I’ve had the privilege of life coaching, and a constant source of inspiration in my life.Courtney and I share a personal connection through our experiences with anxiety, and in this episode, we open up about what it’s really like to live with it. We talk about the importance of asking for help — not as a sign of weakness, but as a powerful act of courage. With an estimated 6.8 million Americans navigating anxiety, it’s time we remove the stigma.As Courtney beautifully puts it, “Nothing is wrong with me — this is just a human experience.”Tune in to hear our honest conversation about facing anxiety, finding support, and learning how to move forward with grace and strength.

I’m excited to have my best friend, personal trainer, and owner of Springfield Health & Fitness, Alexis Fourman, on the podcast today to talk all things exercise! Whether you're just getting started, looking to refine your routine for better results, or simply need a little extra motivation, this episode is for you.Alexis has been a huge part of my own health journey—physically and mentally—and she brings so much knowledge and encouragement to the table. We’ll be chatting about practical ways to build a sustainable fitness routine, common roadblocks people face, and how to stay motivated along the way.If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance in your fitness journey, be sure to follow Alexis on Facebook and Instagram at @FlexTrained. You can also reach out to her at [email protected] to connect and explore her personal training services.

What does it mean to live in bold faith? Listen to our latest podcast with Brent and Megan Neer to find out. They are repeat guests, first appearing in August of 2021. Their adoption story touched many in episode 1, and episode 2 will do the same. From finalizing adoption after a long period of uncertainty to Megan recently donating a kidney and Brent being called to mission work, God continues to work in the Neer's lives, and they continue to live boldly for Him in many ways. They are humble, encouraging, and a true testament to trusting God, even when circumstances are challenging. Learn more about the Neer family’s mission and how you can support their journey by visiting the link below: https://give.abwe.org/worker/10318

In our latest episode, we cover a topic that everyone needs to hear about, which is forgiveness. If you think about it, we all have someone or something in our life that needs forgiveness. We know we should forgive, but the real-life application can be pretty tough and even seem impossible at times. Take a listen to my guest, Stephanie Fischer's perspective on this important topic and how she incorporates the Fruits of the Spirit with the element of forgiveness. You can follow Stephanie on Instagram and YouTube  @Myholisticroots  to stay in the loop about her new book and more!

I am happy to welcome back Route 91 survivor, Jill Winter. In this episode, her and I discuss what is known as the "anniversary effect." -a psychological response that occurs on or around the anniversary of a traumatic event. If you or a loved one have ever experienced any kind of personal trauma, I encourage you to listen to our conversation on this topic as it may shed light on certain feelings and emotions that are difficult to understand. While trauma definitely leaves its imprint, we can still heal, move forward, and live a happy and peaceful life. Deeper understanding and awareness are the key to this, and I hope this episode provides just that.

Although I would never choose to experience the violent incident that my husband and I did in February of 2020, I will say this- because of it, I have had the privilege of meeting some truly remarkable human beings that I would never have otherwise. Jill Winter is one of these people. Jill is a victim of the Route 91 shooting. This mass shooting occurred on October 1, 2017, in Las Vegas at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival, where, sadly, 58 people lost their lives. While still deeply affected by this trauma, Jill is on her own healing path, which has led to her helping others who have experienced similar situations. She is now the co-founder of HEART Peer Support Program at the Resiliency and Justice Center, a program that serves survivors of violent crime. I love Jill's heart and her choice to not only heal herself but to help heal others. Listen to what she has to say because it's not just about surviving a violent crime; it's about the choice to live, heal, and move forward in the midst of deep, unexpected pain. Resiliency & Justice Center Website: https://resiliencyandjustice.org/ HEART Peer Support Program Website: https://resiliencyandjustice.org/heart/  

Our most recent podcast highlights a topic I am extremely passionate about- exercise! Leah Mawdsley, professional athlete and life and fitness coach, joined me to talk about this very topic and how we can use exercise and a healthy lifestyle to positively influence our kids toward an active lifestyle of their own. We also talk about the depth of working out and how it is so much more than being a certain size or weight; it is truly a form of therapy and can transform your mindset. If you are looking for some extra motivation in this area or need to get started, take a listen. Leah is transparent, motivating and has a lot of great advice to share! 

I loved my conversation with Dr. Libby Wilson! We talked about so many great topics, with the underlying theme of how difficulty in life can be used as opportunities for growth, increased understanding, and to better ourselves. She has such great insight as a Functional Medicine Doctor, Life Coach, and author. Her personal reflection will encourage and inspire you, and it comes at the perfect time as we begin the New Year! 

Every once in a while, you meet someone whose perspective on life truly amazes you. The way they view an extreme hardship is beyond encouraging, and deep wisdom and insight is shared. That's exactly what happened when I spoke to Mandy Ellis, who went into labor with her son, Maverick, at 19 weeks. After complete bedrest and many attempts to delay labor, she and her baby ended up having a life-or-death circumstance when she experienced a complete placenta abruption. Listen to her amazing story and how she explains that "God had her back" every step of the way. Her outlook is truly remarkable.

Sometimes we hear stories that literally make our jaw drop. They seem unbelievable because they are so dramatic. As you will see though from listening to our latest podcast, when God is involved, nothing is impossible. Listen as Jules Lemaster shares the incredible story of her mother's near-death experience and how God truly worked a miracle in their lives. It is nothing short of inspirational! 

October is an awareness month for many important issues, one being domestic violence. I had the privilege of sitting down with Karla Bradley who is a second-time guest on the podcast, and hearing her personal story as it relates to this topic. At first glance, you would never guess that domestic violence is a part of Karla's history, and this goes to show that everyone has a story and something they've had to walk through. I appreciate her courage and transparency so much as she articulates what it was like to live in this kind of reality day in and day out. I encourage everyone to listen to this episode. She provides deep insight and wisdom and also shares how God took something that was meant for harm and turned it into good. This is truly an example of beauty for ashes.

If you are in a season of painful struggle, I encourage you to listen to our latest podcast with Jill Reid. Jill experienced great pain when her husband of 32 years passed away after a two-year battle with esophageal cancer. While this time in her life was extremely difficult, she did not allow it to decrease her faith. In fact, Jill talks about the many "gifts" she received during this time like the intimate conversations she had with her husband, and ultimately, a closer relationship with her daughter. Jill's energy, mindset, and outlook are a breath of fresh air in a world where so many have a doom and gloom and a "why me?" attitude. Jill even talks about how these types of circumstances in our life are opportunities to ask, "What can I learn?' rather than "Why is this happening to me?" Her perspective is truly one of faith, trust, and wisdom.

Our latest podcast is nothing short of encouraging, inspiring, and possibly for some, even life-changing. David Hines is a survivor of a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His diagnosis in 2021 was extremely serious, and his father had passed away from the exact same cancer years prior. David did not let this defeat him though. He made his mind up early on to be positive and hope-focused. He clearly states, "I didn't have another option, there was no way I was going to grovel and be negative." His approach to cancer was three-fold: God, nutrition, and treatment. We strongly encourage anyone who is dealing with a similar situation to listen. His outlook, combined with Lindsey Duncan's expert guidance is absolute gold. This could be the health advice you desperately need, the spiritual hope you are seeking, or a combination of the two. ❤️

We all have a vision of how we think our life will be. We all have things we want for ourselves. Heather Burton is no different. She had always dreamed of being a mother, but at age 42, still unmarried and with no children, Heather was deeply struggling with God's plan for her life. Through her trials of disappointment, Heather held onto a verse and finally, one day, out of desperation, called God out on His word. Listen to her amazing story of how God's plan for us sometimes looks incredibly different from what we envision for ourselves. In the moments she was spiritually dying God stepped in and showed her the way. 

Episode 15! Meet Larry and Laura Hufford. I have known this sweet couple for many years, and have been so encouraged by their story. What started out as a typical family vacation in Florida in the summer of 2022, ended up being a 35-plus day stay that involved emergency rooms, MRIs, surgery, and much more. Larry has never been one to post or share much on social media, but since going through this very serious and rare health condition, he has become quite vocal about his story, experience, and most of all, his faith in God. His perspective on this situation is simple and straight to the point- with every post, he says, "My story, His glory." In Larry's opinion, his health challenges are simply an opportunity for God to work through him and for him to encourage others. I'm really happy to share this podcast because there is an abundance of people going through scary and uncertain health issues just like Larry has. I believe he and Laura's words can be the shift in perspective many people need and are desperately searching for. Their words give hope. When I saw the video Larry shared recently on Facebook of him walking up the stairs for the first time at church (after doctors said he probably would never walk again) I was so inspired. He is a true example of believing despite the odds and even despite what experts say.

Nothing is off-limits here, as you will see. Our guest, Mitchell Burton actually said before recording: “I’m not sure if you will be okay with me talking about this.” When he explained his journey, I said, “Absolutely. Let’s do it. People need to hear what you have to say.” So, I encourage you to take a listen as Mitchell shares his story and very human struggle. I believe the more stories we tell, the more people we help. As I often say, everyone is going through something. Pain is pain. We need to help each other out. Sharing stories like Mitchell’s helps people realize they are not alone. In addition, when you see someone cling to their faith like he has, it makes you realize God is always there to step in and help- we don’t have to rely on our own strength.

On this week’s podcast I talk to Chris DiRoma, who is one of our newest team members with AllIn Nutritionals. He and Lindsey have known each other for many years, and we are really happy to have him joining the family! Chris shares his story, which includes a near death experience he had six years ago. It’s truly a miracle he is alive. Chris describes himself as not the typical “church-goer” but talks about his faith, and how he sees God in the simplest things now. I really enjoyed getting to know him more and hearing all he’s been through and learned from. On top of that Lindsey made his first appearance on the TOMS podcast, as he sits in for the first several minutes! Be sure to take a listen, and as always, if you like what we are doing, please share!

This week’s guest is Robert McDaniel, better known as “Big Rob Savage.” He is a restaurant owner, faith-based rapper, media producer, husband, father, and successful businessman…just to name a few! The first time I spoke to Rob, he said something I’ll always remember. He said, “When I heard about the shooting, I was so sad for you and Lindsey. I knew that wasn’t normal for you. For me that kind of thing was normal. I had a really tough upbringing, and I was exposed to a lot, but for you - I knew it was not.” Needless to say, Big Rob has seen a lot in his life and has overcome a tremendous amount of adversity. He even had an out of body experience when he almost died in an ATV accident, which he talks about in this podcast. He is one of those people I could talk to for hours. His authenticity and the way he speaks about his life, struggles, faith, and relationship with God are so endearing and just plain real. I loved hearing about his journey over the years, and what he is doing now to give back to his hometown of Kansas City, Missouri. In my opinion, the world needs more people like Big Rob. Take a listen and be encouraged by what he has to say. And as always, if you like what we’re doing, here at Tattoos of My Soul, please share!! The Savage Saloon: https://www.savagesaloon.com

One of the things I love the most about our podcast is the people I have the privilege of meeting and talking with. This week is no different. Charlie and Faith Russell of Nashville, Tennessee, have an incredible story. I first read about it when a member shared a post (that Faith had written) in the Tattoos of My Soul Prayer Group on Facebook. For several months I along with many others, followed the updates and prayed for their situation. Charlie almost died from Covid and was unconscious for 6 weeks, all the while Faith gave birth to their daughter, Charity. Take a listen as they describe what they went through and how God gave them a miracle…taking what was meant for harm and using it for good. And…if you like what we are doing here on the podcast, please share! Help us reach others by sharing inspiring stories of finding faith in deep waters.

My guest on this podcast is someone I see almost every day because she just so happens to be a barista at my favorite local coffee shop! Becky Smiddy and I did not know each other until just a couple of months ago. Each morning, when I stopped in for a coffee, she and I would visit a little as I waited. One day recently, she asked me about Tattoos of My Soul, and what exactly I do. I shared a bit of my background and story with her and the meaning behind Tattoos of My Soul. With that, she said, "I have a story I'd like to share!" Right away I loved her energy and transparency. It's so awesome how God opens doors for us to meet new and amazing people! In this Podcast, Becky shares her very real and raw story about growing up in an alcoholic family, working as a missionary, and later dealing with addiction in her own marriage. She shares some deep insights into all she has learned throughout these unique experiences. Take a listen! You will be encouraged and inspired.   If you like what we are doing, please share!!

Have you ever met someone and listened to all they do, and instantly thought, "How do they accomplish all of that!?" Well Karla Bradley is definitely one of those people! She is the mom of 8 (yes I said 8 kids!), blogger, author, camper, and furniture flipper and SO much more! I got the opportunity to sit down and chat with her on our latest podcast, which was incredibly interesting and inspiring. Her attitude and perspective on the challenges of daily life is something to take note of, not to mention the system she has in place for daily life. She not only gets a ton done each day, but also stays calm, peaceful and positive while she does it. Moms in particular...you will want to take a listen! She has great tidbits we all can learn from! Take a listen!! You can follow Karla here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebradleybunchadventures/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebradleybunchadventures Blog: http://thebradleybunch.blog/

On this episode, I talk to Aaron Stratton. He works at the local gym here, Springfield Health and Fitness, runs a charity called Beardman's Full Bellies and is working on building a mobile food pantry called The Magic Food Bus that supplies local children in need with food, clothing and supplies. He also shares his story of overcoming huge health issues including a heart attack, intractable hiccups and even contemplating suicide. Aaron's story is a great example of what we love to hear on the Tattoos of My Soul Podcast...stories of people turning trial into triumph. His story will definitely uplift and encourage you. Take a listen. :)

On today's podcast I talk to Angie Miller, who works as a Life Coach at the Safe Harbor House, which is an amazing local treatment center. The Safe Harbor House is a place where women can go to seek treatment who have dealt with significant trauma such as abuse, addiction and even trafficking. Angie not only helps these women, but has an amazing story herself. One that is full of pain, abuse and addiction, but that ultimately turns into strength and triumph. I so appreciate her ability to just be completely raw in this podcast. Take a listen, you will be inspired and encouraged.

In this episode, I have my good friend and personal trainer, Alexis Fourman, back with us as our very first return guest! We go over a lot of helpful things revolving around staying motivated, developing a consistent workout routine and eating healthy. We also talk about the importance of finding someone who can help and even workout with you. I hope you like it and get as much out of it as I have!

Licensed to be foster parents in 2019, Brent and Megan Neer have been on a journey of great uncertainty for over two years. At just four days old, twin boys were placed in their care and soon after, the Neer's knew God was calling them to adopt. Their path has been full of both joy and despair, as there have been many times the fate of the boys was completely unknown. The Neer's are true examples of "Finding faith in deep waters" and receiving God's blessings when all you can do is trust. Listen to their story...their example of incredible blind faith will no doubt encourage you. 

Kelly Savage has a serious story of about every trauma, tragedy and pain you can think of; I can't believe all she has been through. Listen as she tells her incredible story of life as an addict, the painful road she was on, her breaking point when she finally said, "I've had enough" and her moment with God that changed everything. She is the prime example of someone who has used painful tattoos of her soul to grow, persevere and flourish.

On this podcast I talk with my close friend and personal trainer, Alexis Fourman. If you need motivation to get moving, make sure to listen...you will be ready to hit the gym!. Alexis and I also talk about the synergistic connection between the mind and the body. Exercising is not just about obtaining a certain number on the scale...it's SO much more.

On this podcast I talk with Kelley Gunter who is the Author of the best seller, “You Have Such a Pretty Face.” Kelly has an incredible story of tragedy and triumph; she is the perfect example of someone who has many painful tattoos on her soul, but has refused to let them define who she is. Her story is inspiring and her faith in God amid incredible adversity is beyond encouraging.

Dacia Jernigan tells her story of how she was robbed at gun point within her own apartment. Now a mother of two, she explains the healing process and the lessons learned from this traumatic experience.