The Journey Is Real"Real People, Real Passions, Real Hearts."

Mark is a retired economics and mathematics teacher. He taught in Toronto and Hamilton for 24 years. He coached hockey, cross country, and track & field. He currently serves as a volunteer cross country coach for Westdale Secondary School. He has published a scifi novel, “Age-Decoded.” To learn more about him, go to: Mark’s Bio: https://www.quora.com/profile/Mark-Ryall-2 Age Decoded link: https://books2read.com/age-decoded

Terry Tucker is no stranger to the struggles life throws at people. His biggest was being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called: Acral Lentiginous Melanoma. In addition to his faith, he uses 4 truths to guide the decisions he makes in life: 1) Control your mind, or it will control you; 2) Embrace the pain and discomfort we all experience in life and use it to make you a stronger and more determined individual; 3) What you leave behind is what you weave in the hearts of other people; and 4) As long as you don’t quit – you can never be defeated. He has written a book called “Sustainable Excellence.” To learn more about him, go to his website: https://www.motivationalcheck.com

Martha Hoy has taken the tragedies in her life, and has transformed them to victories! List as she shares her story today. She also shares about the books she wrote regarding her journey. They may be able to help you or someone close to you. You can find her online at her FB page: https://www.facebook.com/martha.hoy

Since his release from prison in 2015, Shane Flemens has been successfully running his own landscaping and general contracting company, ABE Landscaping and Maintenance. He also owns and operates Rise n’ Ride Rentals, a watersport company with his daughter, Ashley. Now a free man, Shane is driven to shine a bright light on the darkness of prison through his writings, which he began on the inside: ask hard questions and share truth. He hopes that through these stories, and those of his fellow inmates, he can affect positive change in the lives of others. To learn more about him and his books, go to: http://shaneflemens.com

The path that has led Vito Altavilla to this point in his life has been anything but traditional.  He became an industrial research chemist who participated in several technological breakthroughs, holds over a dozen patents, and took a very interesting path to get there. Growing up in the city, his time in the Navy, University and his work life has made for a lot to reflect on, so, here it is. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. before WW II, he’s been in the middle of some unique situations, most of them very funny, and all of them true.  Vito walks you through a few dozen of these wonderfully told snap-shots of life in America during a time some of us remember,  and most of us can relate to. To learn more about him, go to: http://itbeganinbrooklyn.com/

It’s Eden Gold’s life mission to reach as many young adults as she can, to give them a powerful layer of support and guidance as they navigate adulthood in a way that inspires them to live a great future. To her, success is more than academics. She says, “Success is prioritizing your mental health. Success is the ability to open up and seek help when you are struggling. Success is loving our body through all of its developmental changes. Success is taking criticism of others lightly, and not letting it dim your shine. Success is never giving up. Success is your mindset.” To learn more about her, head over to: https://www.lifeafterhighschool.us/

Over the past 12 years Marc Johnston has helped hundreds of clients make real changes in their lives. Now, as one of the founders of High Thrive Coaching, he is able to share some of his secrets to success on a much larger platform. Marc has helped clients save their marriages, improve their communication, overcome addiction, move beyond abusive relationships and more. After a spectacular failure, and nearly losing everything Marc has learned how to use failures in relationships and life as tools to springboard to success. To learn more, go to: https://www.highthrivecoaching.com

Gayle Martz’s mission and passion is helping people enjoy and live their lives with their animal companions anywhere and everywhere. Making it possible for people to take their pets wherever they go is her ultimate goal. In Gayle’s story titled “IT’s IN THE BAG,” her hope for you to learn the great lengths she went to have pets on board and have a greater appreciation for traveling with your loving companion. To find out more about her, the Sherpa Bag, or her book, go to: https://gaylemartz.com

Annie Mack is a prize-winning fine art photoartist and the author of Badass Pix with a Cheap-Ass Camera, which includes abstracts, macros, and non-traditional perspectives as examples of creative expression through photography. You can find out more about her unique style of photography, as well as more about Annie Mack, by going here: https://anniemack.zenfolio.com

My guest today is René Murata! She is the CEO of CEO Essence. CEO Essence is leadership training designed for women by women. “It takes the essence of who we are, intuitive, innately strong, and nurturing and combines these traits with business strategies, financial and marketing awareness to create a full spectrum training designed to provide you with tools to advance your career. To learn more about René and CEO Essence, go to: https://www.renemurata.com

Coming from the least privileged background, Dmitry Badiarov has made a name for himself as a core member of La Petite Bande. He created instruments for world-class musicians, and has preserved the art of hand crafting violins for over 25 years. To learn more about Dmitry and his violins, go to: http://badiarovviolins.com/

Dr. Marni Hill Foderaro is an award-winning and celebrated author, speaker and educator.Inspired by hundreds of true accounts, Marni’s critically acclaimed and 2020 Best Books Award-Winning Spiritual fiction “God Came To My Garage Sale”, about a questioning Atheist woman who experiences numerous Spiritually Transformative Encounters, has received praise from prominent endorsers, including James Redfield, best selling author of “The Celestine Prophecy” series. To learn more about her and her book, go to: http://godcametomygaragesale.com

Elizabeth Power, M. Ed., CEO of EPower & Associates, Inc. epowerandassociates.com, is a sought-after speaker, facilitator, teacher, and consultant. "All I do is help people with change, resilience and self-care, and alignment. And everything is done from the trauma-informed perspective," she says. "Even courses directly about working with trauma are about change." To learn more about her, head over to her website: https://www.elizabethpower.com/

Joy Bus Journeys is an online show where we cruise in our 73 VW Joy Bus to go on amazing adventures, visit healthy restaurants, and explore local farms. Eating healthy can be confusing and overwhelming. We will take you on exciting adventures full of amazing food that is good for you and the planet. To learn more about The Joy Bus Journeys or Jake Shumate, go to: https://www.joybusjourney.com

David Essel, M. S. O.M., is a number one best-selling author, counselor, master life coach, international speaker, and minister whose mission is to positively affect 2 million people or more every day, in every area of life, regardless of their current circumstances. David has helped thousands of people from around the world achieve their greatest goals in every area of life. From doubling and even tripling their income, to freedom from addictions, preparation for deep love, getting the body they’ve always wanted, releasing long held negative attitudes, overcoming deep depression and anxiety, overcoming emotional and sexual abuse, changing careers or creating dramatic success as business owners, public speaking, as well as helping couples recover from affairs and creating a deep personal connection with God or one’s higher power. To learn more about him, go to: https://davidessel.com/home-main/

Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D. has always walked the path of the medicine man. He grew up in the wilds of Minnesota where his parents and grandparents utilized the amazing wild foods and medicinal plants found in local woods, fields, and lakes. His parents understood the healing powers in nature...whether it be plant, mushroom, or physical interactions. The healing connection with nature that Dr. Vorderbruggen has known since childhood is foundation to who he is today. To learn more, go to: https://medicinemanplantco.com OR https://www.foragingtexas.com

Dr. Joye Pugh’s background involves working as a researcher, counselor, mental retardation professional, human services director, and consultant. Dr. Pugh appears in several television documentaries on the History Channel concerning end times. She has written many books, has an audio edition of one of her books, as well as, an album of her original songs. To learn more about her, go to: https://www.drjoye.com

C.K. Donnelly is an award-winning fantasy author. For those who read fantasy, they are aware fantasy has an element not shared by all genres – world building. C.K. talks to C.J. about the ins and outs of building a world. Afterward, head over to her site to find out more about her and her books: https://ckdonnelly.com

With her speaking and writing, Sara Zeff Geber has been raising awareness about Solo Aging for the past 10 years. She believes Solo Agers have unique needs in later life that warrant greater foresight and a more robust approach to planning. She is a recipient of the “Influencers in Aging” designation by PBS’ Next Avenue. She is an author, retirement transition coach, and professional speaker on retirement and aging. to learn more about her, go to: https://sarazeffgeber.com

Traci Moreno states that, “This is not your average therapy, and I’m not your average therapist. I am a coaching psychologist. I’m not someone who just listens, nods her head and agrees with whatever your say. I will challenge you, encourage you to dig deeply, and offer insights and feedback that can help you change your life for the better. I focus on helping people succeed and reach their true potential.” To learn more about her, go to: https://www.freespiritcoaching.org

Julie Kramer is an experienced executive, career and transition coach who has recruited hundreds of C-level, Vice President and Director Level executives to new opportunities at companies including Hewlett Packard, Apple Computer, VMware, Netscape, Looksmart, E-trade, Charles Schwab, Wells Fargo, Lucky Stores, McKesson, and KPMG Peat Marwick. She has coached professionals into expanded leadership roles and works with professionals who want to change positions, industries or careers. To learn more about her or Roadspring: https://www.goodlifepath.com/homepage http://roadspring.com

Karen Ford is a motivational speaker and Master Financial Coach. She motivates listeners to break the chains of debt, as well as give practical insight in how to create and build wealth, and has a gift for teaching in a practical and fun manner. In her personal life, she and her husband have been married since 2007 and have 3 children. To learn more about her, go to: https://karenford.org

When my guest, Jeff Rasley, first mentioned ‘Philanthro-Trekking,’ I have to admit I was intrigued. The best way to describe it is how he describes his book with the same title: “It’s memoir of suffering, grit, and love of the Himalayas and Basa Village. It is also a travelogue through the Himalayan region and a book about transitioning from a mere adventurer to a committed philanthropist doing culturally sensitive development in the Basa area of Nepal.” Still not sure? Take a listen to enlighten yourself! It will definitely give you something to think about. To learn more about Jeff Rasley, go to: http://www.jeffreyrasley.com

My guest, Leah Forney, learned early on the importance of having a relationship with Jesus Christ from her maternal grandmother who raised her in the church. As she continues to accept the calling God has placed on her life, Leah is open to seeing where her gifts and talents will take her. She has released seven books over the last 4 years. She is the podcast host of Hey Queen, Thrive! For more on Leah Forney, go to: https://www.leahmforney.com

Robert Pardi’s journey has not been an easy one, but it has been an insightful one. Take a listen to find out how he went from receiving an MBA from Columbia University, living a wonderful life with his wife, to battling an enemy from within. After losing his wife, he reevaluated his life with the help of his life coach. Together, they came up with new plan. After becoming a life coach, his new goal is to help others find their purpose and fulfill their goals. He put all of this in his book Chasing Life. To find out more about him, go to: https://www.robertpardi.com

This mother/daughter duo are no strangers to trauma and adversity. Losing Carey’s husband (Laurel’s Dad) and Laurel’s brother (Carey’s Son) both within a few years of each other to suicide, they pushed past the emotional turmoil that would normally separate families, and bonded together. Instead of wilting in the aftermath, both Cary Conley & Laurel Wilson choose to thrive and help others! From workshops to masterclasses, to books, and Facebook groups, there are plenty of opportunities for you to thrive as well! To find out more, go to: https://careyconley.com

In recognition of suicide awareness month, Justin True invites you to take a walk in his shoes. He loves action, adventure, and extreme sports. His aim is create motivation and awareness to those who are in need with his high level of physical feats. He has been noticed many times, shining a light on his goals. His next feat will involve a massive triathlon across America to shine a light on mental health awareness. Follow him on his journey by checking out these links: Website: https://whoisjtrue.com KTVZ story: https://ktvz.com/news/bend/2021/04/01/bend-man-planning-triathlon-across-america-for-mental-health-awareness-month/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thejekelekej/featured

CJ Warrant is an award-winning author of romantic suspense and contemporary romance, she also loves family, baking, and coffee. Baking brings her joy and clarity in life, especially if she’s stuck on a storyline. See how those elements all combine to create the stories you love to read. To find out more about this bright spirited author, head over to: https://cjwarrant.com

Faust Ruggiero is a published research author, clinical trainer, and a therapist who has worked in settings that have included clinics for deaf children, prisons, nursing homes, substance abuse centers, inpatient facilities, major corporations, both national and international, and as the President of the Community Psychological Center in Bangor, Pennsylvania. In that capacity, he developed the Process Way of Life counseling program, and has developed it into a formal text presented in the Fix Yourself Handbook. To learn more about him or his works, go to: https://www.faustruggiero.com

My guest, Bracha Goetz, has a light about her. She loves to share that light with others. Whether it’s her zest for life, food, or her various books she has out, she loves to share with others! She overcame nourishing her food addiction, and replaced that addiction with nourishing her soul! To find out more about her and her books, go to: https://www.amazon.com/Bracha-Goetz/e/B001KCI086?ref_=pe_584750_33951330

Ben Winter has had full life. Within his many ventures, he found one constant…a battle of the mind. He is quoted as saying, “the only reason anyone gets upset is because an expectation hasn’t been met.” He’s taken that philosophy, and wrote “What To Expect When Having Expectations.”  His book helps you understand where your expectations come from, what drives them, why you aren’t always aware of them, and how to come to peace after being upset by and unmet expectation. To learn more about him or his book, go to: https://havingexpectations.com

Michael Messner played hockey at Penn State, and has received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2016. He understands hockey from the inside. His children are both into hockey as well, which is where he got a realistic view of checking at young ages. He combines his passion for film, hockey, and his family to create the movie: 1st Year Checking. He has been directing and producing for over 25 years. He is a partner at the Pittsburgh based, Awesome Films, and has won regional Emmy’s, including Best Director in the Mid-Atlantic, Sunshine, and New York Chapters for his collegiate sports television shows. To learn more about him and this movie, go to: https://1styearchecking.com

If you ever met Dr. Sims, you would not forget it! He is a man with incredible energy and enthusiasm. His passion for Christ is unmistakable! Take a listen to this fun interview with the one and only Dr. Walter Sims! He has been a spiritual leader for over 20 years. He has a Master’s of Ministry degree; Doctorate of Divinity; Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering; certified in the expertise of coaching, and has coached several highly respected life coaches. He is also a published author, and a dynamic leader who has ministered to thousands of people. His motto is, “You have to live it…to know it…to teach it..and to coach it.” To find out more about him, go to: https://drwaltersims.com

Angel Ribo has an inspiring mission with his foundation: Wisdom For Kids. The foundation states: “There are 81 million kids living in poverty in Latic America right now. Our Mission is to help 810,000 kids in need in Latan America become entrepreneurs within the next three years using local resources.” Angel Ribo is investing in the next generation to shape it for the better of all. To find out more about Wisdom For Kids or Angel Ribo, go to: https://wisdomforkids.today/

Some may know the name “Brimstone.” However, when you take a listen to this interview, you’ll learn more about the man behind the name. His successful career has spanned over four decades. His ventures include: professional wrestler, radio host/professional podcaster, actor, voice actor, author, musician, philanthropist, food critic, horror model, and comic book/animated/children’s book/video game hero. After taking a listen, head over to his website to get to know more about The Real Brimstone: https://www.therealbrimstone.com

Fran Graham’s extensive background in law enforcement, search and rescue, community emergency response training, international disaster relief, fire and police chaplaincy, critical incident stress management, and the medical field, provides a vast knowledge of wealth and expertise. This enables her to support, encourage, and help others through crisis and psychological trauma. She also has a book out, titled, What To Do When Life Sucks.” To learn more about her, go to: https://franhgraham.com

The Journey Is Real Podcast: DC Glenn – Learning To Learn DC Glenn is most known for his part in Tag Team. However, he’s so much deeper than that. Sitting down with him was fascinating. We probably could have talked for hours. Take a listen and find out what he means by, “Learning To Learn.” To find him on social media or online, go to: https://www.tagteambackagain.com/ @dcglennatl @tagteamwhoomp #scoopthereitis #sprinkles #tagteam #whoompthereitis

Kristin Burke’s goal is to empower women to advance themselves professionally. She does this by helping set achievable, clear goals. By also encouraging them to reach levels of self-confidence and strength, she helps women to achieve those goals. Take a listen. You may find your own inner strength! To learn more about her, go to: https://kristinburke.com

Since he was a child, Davy Jones had a dream. It was to bring laughter and joy into the world through comics. Over the years, he tried many avenues, until he got the idea to create a comic no one would like…only find out that’s exactly what people were looking for! Now, years later, Charmy’s Army is a hit! Take a listen to find out more about Davy Jones and his journey! To learn more about what’s next for him, head over to: https://charmysarmy.com

I know my next guest’s story sounds like a work of fiction, but it’s all true! What happens when a comedian becomes a mayor? Take a listen to Jeremy Nunes’s story to find out! You’ll enjoy some lighter points of his story as he shares his passion for making others laugh, while combining it with the love of his city, a podcast, and a book called, “You Can’t Write City Hall.” To find out more about him and all he has going on, head over to: https://www.jeremynunes.com

Tracy Lamourie took her love for helping people to the next level when she successfully fought for one man. She took what she learned and converted it into helping others via public relations! Her heart still leads and guides her though the maze of the public relations world. If you need help navigating it, or want to find out more about her, head over to: https://lamouriemedia.medium.com

My guest today, Patti Talbot, is “changing the world from the inside out”…one story at a time! Using the Changemaker Journey on the Blue Roads Education site, she chats with individuals and leaders in their community to cultivate homegrown change for a better world! To learn more about her, Blue Roads Education, or Changemaker Journey, head over to: https://blueroadseducation.org

This UK based entrepreneur learned the hard way about the ups and downs of owning your own business. She utilizes those lessons learned to help others become entrepreneurs as well! Jan Cavelle then decided to put a lot of that advice into a book called, ‘Scale For Success.’ Jan says she passionately believes that entrepreneurship is essential for the healthy economic futures of any country. To learn more about Jan Cavelle, her book, her podcast, or many speaking opportunities she has, head over to: https://jancavelle.co.uk

My guest, Jacob Craig has been on a journey himself through the years, and he shares that journey with us. He takes what he's learned and is turning around to use it to help others. He does individual advising, as well as company. He also has a book, Inspiring Leaders In Health & Fitness, and is working on another one regarding Leaders In Motivation & Success. To find out more about Jacob Craig, head over to: https://inspiringleaderscollective.com

Debbie Ausburn has a heart for others. She pours herself into others, which in turn, blesses her beyond measure. She shares some of those stories in her book, Raising Other People’s Children. Debbie has spent decades working with traumatized children, serving as a social worker, group home parent, criminal prosecutor, volunteer and board member, attorney defending youth-serving organizations, foster parent, step-parent, and grandparent raising a grandchild. To learn more about this amazing woman, head over to: https://www.debbieausburn.com

Chloe Traicos is an actor, writer, and activist in her own right! Her movie, “Introducing Jodea,” won for “Best Comedy” at the Cannes Silk Road Film Awards. The Director and Editor, JD Cohen, won for “Best Editing” at the Top Indies Film Festival. It was also nominated for “Best Picture,” “Best Comedy,” “Best Actress,” and “Best Script”! While being an actress is her passion, she also wrote “Introducing Jodea”! This multitalented lady, has another passion connected to her childhood. She is a part of the “Save Zimbabwe Movement.” Growing up there gave her an in-depth perspective on the life of the Zimbabwe people. They hold a special place in her heart, and she shares what this movement is about. Take a listen and find out more about this amazing woman – Chloe Traicos! IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2081915/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm “Introducing Jodea” Movie Trailer: https://youtu.be/kF7Fah7scDM Coming 04JUN to Laemmie Movie Theaters! I’ve had the opportunity to view this movie. It’s one you don’t want to miss! Find it near you!

Jamie Loreth’s passion is two-fold. It started off as a book, but spawned a charity called, “The Pink Blanket.” This charity provides pink blankets to women and children who are domestic violence survivors. It wraps them in a blanket of hope! She shares about her passions, as well as a little of her own story. To find out more about Jamie, her book, or her charity, head over to: http://www.jlynnady.com

Trav Bell has a unique passion of “The Bucket List”! Find out how this became is passion, and how this can change your way of thinking! He shares this passion with energy and enthusiasm like only he can. Find out what a bucket list is, and how it can be applied to your life right now! Don’t wait until it’s too late. This is one you have to hear! To learn more about Trav Bell, go to: https://www.thebucketlistguy.com

My guest today, on this special episode of The Journey Is Real Podcast, is Ben Jacoby! He has had quite and adventure in life so far! They include military service in the Israeli Military, travels throughout Europe and Asia, traveling around Australia in a party bus, going for a world record, and so much more! To find out more about him, and the documentary he has about him, head over to his YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjqaS94o48TG10iRBFkQJnQ You can also find out more about him on his web pages: https://www.thebenjacoby.com https://kardocreative.com

Aimee Ravichandran has her hands full with many plates spinning! She not only has two little girls two and under, but also runs two companies, Abundantly Social and Perceptive PR; runs a podcast on Monday mornings at 10AM CT, Author Talk, with her, Russell Little, and Fern Brady; is a co-host of The Con Hour, with Greg Kelso and C.J. Peterson; and yet, still has time to look after her group of authors on Monday Night Training called Through The Eyes Of Authors and go to Comic Cons! This lady knows how to balance and have fun! To learn more about Aimee and her ventures, head over to: https://abundantlysocial.com