The School of Hard Knocks

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.My whole heart felt for Simone as she walks us through the betrayal she experienced while in the military. Now knowing she has gone global to help others is such a beautiful thing!About Our Guest:Simone is an Army Veteran, military sexual trauma survivor, author, mental health advocate and coach. She founded one of the first nonprofits to give sexual assault survivors service dogs now speaks on global stages encouraging others that PTSD is treatable. How to reach Simone: https://www.tiktok.com/@ptsdandwhathelpedme?_r=1&_t=ZP-95B0xkkRQ. https:/www.instagram.com/ptsdandwhathelpedme?igsh=cGluMGt4NGllbjM2. https://youtube.com/@ptsdandwhathelpedme?si=b63fxTGLTtvczLtm2p“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.The power in this interview is incredible! You can never be too lost to ever be found! About Our Guest:David Shapiro is a speaker, author, and former Orthodox Jew who found faith in Jesus. He is the author of Unshakable: The Evidence Behind the Bible, where he explores the historical, archaeological, and philosophical case for Scripture. David hosts The Boundless Bible podcast and is passionate about helping people build a confident, evidence-based faith.How to reach David: Drdavidshapiro.org“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.My takeaway here is to never give up on your dreams and to proudly celebrate your success! About Our Guest:Elsa Morgan is a globally recognized entrepreneur, mentor, and visionary leader empowering high-achieving women over 40 to build six- and seven-figure legacy businesses. From bankruptcy to building a multimillion-dollar company, Elsa's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless purpose.Born into poverty in Australia, sleeping on two dining chairs pushed together for the first 18 months of her life, Elsa rebuilt her life from the ground up after filing for personal bankruptcy in 2009. She left a 20-year corporate career in 2018 and built her first six-figure business within a year.Today, she leads a growing global movement through her company, The Queenie Effect Pty Ltd, mentoring women to rise as category-of-one leaders, own their voice, and create wealth that transforms generations.Her flagship programs, The Inner Circle and Six-Figure Launch Lab, have guided thousands of women across the globe to scale their businesses with clarity, confidence, and consistency. Elsa is also the founder of EmpowerYou™, an international women's empowerment event series, and EmpowerHer Publishing, a bestselling book collaboration platform that has produced over 125 best-selling authors to date.Her work is featured in high-profile publications such as Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and AsiaOne, and she is known for her thought leadership on personal branding, feminine leadership, wealth creation, and marketing mastery.Elsa's mission is bold and clear: to impact 1,000,000 women worldwide to break generational ceilings, build financial sovereignty, and lead with unshakable self-belief. Through mentorship, publishing, and global events, she is redefining what's possible for women in business and inspiring a new era of wealth and leadership.How to reach Elsa: email: queenie@elsamorganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/elsabmorganInstagram: https://instagram.com/@therealelsamorganLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/businesscoachforwomenelsamorgan/“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode. I will always remember Wades saying “ It’s ok to mind your business bro”. He’s so right! About Our Guest:Wade Simmons, a filmmaker of almost nine years is from Chicago. He has also worked in the funeral service industry for almost 16 years . Wade graduated from worsham college of mortuary science at flash point Chicago . He also trained for pro wrestling with chicago style wrestling for two years . Wade lives by these two mottos "Each day is a gift use it wisely and the second one "its ok to mine your business ".How to reach Wade : Wadejedi99 on instagram“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.When you witness a woman shedding tears for her younger self, while still grounded in her bloomed life, it’s a beautiful thing! About Our Guest:Melissa Oliver is with Be you and BLOOM collective . She found herself homeless at 17/18 years old and now 3 decades later and lots of in inner healing and growth - she has been called to serve others and help build resilience through any story and any season of life.How to reach Melissa: https://www.facebook.com/share/1JVDYm8pnz/?mibextid=wwXIfr“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.My takeaway here was a confirmation of the true joy that comes with being grounded in our healing! About Our Guest:Lida Johnson is a Health and Wellness Strategist, speaker, and writer who helps people turn their hopes for a healthier, happier life into clear, doable actions. Known for meeting people where they are, Lida walks beside her clients as they build the habits, mindset, and confidence needed to create lasting change.Her own life is a story of resilience and transformation. After growing up in a challenging environment marked by hardship and adversity, Lida chose a different path. She transformed pain into purpose and used discipline, personal growth, and endurance sports to rebuild her life and health.Today, she helps others move from surviving to thriving. Lida shares the lessons she has learned about courage, commitment, and self-leadership. Her work equips people with practical tools and encouragement to create meaningful change and pursue the life they truly want, one step at a time.How to reach Lida: https://www.facebook.com/HeadToToeCoaching www.headtotoecoaching.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/headtotoecoaching/ https://www.instagram.com/lidaheadtotoe/“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.I absolutely loved Lady V’s personality and insight! She is absolutely grounded in her healing! About Our Guest:Tivona Elliott, known as Lady V, is a resilient visionary, Spiritual Release Coach, and CEO of Elliott Night Professionals, delivering God’s message of liberation worldwide. After a life-altering Lupus diagnosis, she turned pain into purpose by founding the 2 Gone 2 Long Judgment Free Network, empowering lives through media and meaningful conversation. She is the creator of Awaken the Rebel Within: Release, Rebuild, Rebrand Your Voice and the R.O.A.R. Method—guiding individuals to Release, Overcome, Awaken, and Rise. As the founder of Warrior Women R.O.A.R., she empowers others to reclaim their voice, walk in purpose, and boldly live the life God has called them to lead.How to reach Tivona: www.linktr.ee/LadyVenp“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode. What a beautiful transformation! Now that Julie has found her voice, she is changing lives! About Our Guest:Julie Lavia is a female empowerment advocate and visibility expert who helps women get more confident getting more seen in fb groups and beyomd the feed. She is also a podcast host, summit speaker and host, and author who wants to show up for other introverted and resilient women tp help them amplify their voicesHow to reach Julie : @julielaviacoaching“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.One of my favorite things will forever be to hear of a woman that has risen! This story really embodies that!About Our Guest:Sarah is a finance coach who helps individuals take control of their money and build lasting wealth. But her journey didn’t start there. After a failed business early in life, Sarah found herself with just $500 to her name, sleeping in the back of a truck and starting over from scratch.Through resilience, smart financial decisions, and a commitment to doing things differently, she rebuilt her life—eventually selling two businesses and reaching her first million. Today, she teaches others how to make their money work for them instead of against them, proving that no matter where you start, your financial future can be rewritten.How to reach Sarah: @sarahnicolenadler“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.I t very rarely happens, but this episode brought me to tears while recording. What a beautiful story of what we get to look forward too! About Our Guest:I had a near-death experience after a motorcycle accident where I encountered my son who had passed away two years earlier. During that experience, I was shown a powerful message about love, connection, and the way our loved ones remain with us. Today, I share that message to bring comfort and hope to others, especially those navigating grief.How to reach Melanie: FB melanie.hewettdeaeth TikTok @melanie_hd8 IG melanie2263“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.When Krystina talks about hearing God in a way that calmed her whole soul, my spirit jumped with joy! This is such a powerful and beautiful journey! About Our Guest:Krystina Dixon is an ordained Chaplain, author, Christian Life & Legacy Coach, and the founder of Breathe Life Coaching. With a Master’s in Counseling and triple board certifications in Biblical counseling, Christian life coaching, and Christian mental health, Krystina specializes in equipping and empowering high-capacity Christian women to break free from the strongholds of limiting beliefs and sabotaging behaviors so they can inhale peace and exhale purpose.How to reach Krystina: https://linktr.ee/breathelifecoachingllc“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.When you’re in the valley, keep your head up. God will always bring you back to the mountain. About Our Guest:Donna Strong grew up in Dayton, Ohio with her parents and sister. They were a Christian family who loved the Lord dearly. Even though the family's faith was strong, they encountered extremely difficult times and were required to make major life decisions. She learned that even “church people” can be some of the most hurtful to others, even disassociating themselves when they should be uplifting and praying for their brothers and sisters in Christ. Most definitely, trusting GOD (rather than man), is the only option that truly exists.After Donna married, she and her husband also dealt with unexpected circumstances in their marriage that also dictated trust in God for their family. Once again, with an extremely strong belief in God and knowing that HE is the only one to trust in trying times, they were able to resolve themselves to giving their situations to God.She was once asked if she would have preferred not experiencing these trials. Humanly, yes; spiritually, no. As horrible as these situations were, they truly shaped her into the person she is today. How to reach Donna: https://www.thoughtsandexpressionsllc.com https://www.facebook.com/donnabrockstrong“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.The relationship between these two women is absolutely beautiful! Gaylynn’s story is nothing short of God grace and mercy. Such a powerful journey! About Our Guest:LaVonne M. Chastain is the author of Get Up: The Story of One Woman’s Journey and the God Who Wouldn’t Let Go, a faith-centered memoir chronicling the extraordinary life of her cousin, Gaylynn Kapri. Drawing from decades of shared memories and deep personal connection, LaVonne tells a powerful story of trauma, devastating loss, stage-four colon cancer, and the unwavering presence of a God who never lets go. She writes with honesty, reverence, and a steadfast belief that no season of suffering is wasted in God’s hands.Gaylynn Kapri is the woman behind the story—a stage-four colon cancer survivor whose life has been marked by resilience through childhood trauma, the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, and a life-threatening diagnosis. Known for her bold spirit and magnetic personality, Gaylynn’s journey is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the courage to keep going.Together, they share a message of hope, reminding others that no matter how hard life hits, it’s never too late to rise again.How to reach LaVonne & Gaylynn: FB Valley Grace Publishing; IG @valleygracepub Website: ValleyGracePub.com“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

She thought she had lost herself after her divorce. Only to become her authentic self in the rebuild. Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.About Our Guest:Amanda Pieraldi is the host of the Spiritual Gangster Podcast, where she shares real, unfiltered conversations about personal growth, resilience, and navigating life’s hardest seasons. After experiencing loss, career shifts, and rebuilding from the ground up, she now uses her voice to remind others that they’re stronger than they think—and that even in the mess, there’s meaning. Her work blends mindset, energy, and real-life truth to help people come back to themselves.How to reach Amanda: https://www.instagram.com/spiritualgangsterpod?igsh=dGVibzlvMWJibHF1,https://www.facebook.com/share/19f2XneiBz/https://www.tiktok.com/@the.spiritual.gangster?_r=1&_t=ZS-95AvofgA6BY,“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What an awakening to how things can go very wrong even when you’re working with the medical field. Never stop advocating for yourself! About Our Guest:“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”. Heather Sunderland is a board-certified Functional Health Coach, founder of Health Coaching by Heather, LLC, and co-owner of Navigating Mold and CIRS, LLC. After spending nearly three decades searching for answers to her mysterious symptoms, she later discovered she had undiagnosed Lyme disease and mold toxicity. She now dedicates her work to helping others shorten that journey.Her mission is simple: to bring hope, clarity, and direction to those facing complex chronic conditions and to help them reclaim their health by removing blocks to healing and restoring balance, step by step.How to reach Heather: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-sunderland-3a35212b1/ https://www.facebook.com/heather.s.sunderland https://www.instagram.com/heathersunderland842/ https://www.youtube.com/@heathersunderland690“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.A deep dive in to prison life and the healing work after. About Our Guest:One impulsive decision changed everything for Matthew Melvin.After believing he was being underpaid, he made a choice that led to an 18-month prison sentence—where being different made him a target. As a gay, Christian man with an autism diagnosis, Matthew entered prison hoping to stay quiet… but quickly found himself facing bullying, violence, and isolation.In this raw episode, he shares what it truly means to survive when you feel like you don’t belong.How to reach Matt : IG- Bulliedbehindbars, X-Barsbullied, Facebook- Matthew.Melvin.5621“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.This was such a powerful conversation! Amanda’s drive to be better than she was yesterday and only compete against herself is so refreshing ! About Our Guest:Amanda Reece is the creator of Amandafesting, helping women set intentions, manifest goals, and reconnect with their inner sparkle. After years of debilitating pain and a diagnosis that led to stage 4 endometriosis, her life transformed from sedentary to thriving. Now she travels the world, hosts empowering workshops, and helps women align with purpose, confidence, and joy.How to reach Amanda: [email protected]“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What a great reminder of being in control of having the ability to reboot yourself. If you’ve experienced or are experiencing burnout, this is for you! About Our Guest:Joey Chandler is the founder of Certain Growth Solutions, an author, podcast host, and speaker. His work sits at the intersection of personal values and practical action. He built CGS out of his own experience recovering from burnout, and he now helps entrepreneurs and leaders apply the same values-driven approach to build businesses and lives with more certainty and more growth.How to reach Joey: @joeychandler70 everywhere“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What a journey Hugh has been on in his life. To hear about the violence he was subjected to as a child, to leading men the way he does today, is nothing short of The Lords work! About Our Guest:My name is Hugh Newton. I live in the UK and run a transformational self-awareness healing journey for men called The Sovereign’s Journey. I grew up in Southern Africa, in Zimbabwe, when it was Rhodesia. I lived with my family deep in the African bush, and at the age of 9, the Rhodesian Civil War engulfed us. I was armed by my father and trained to protect my family from the ages of 9 to 14. Arriving in the UK as a teenager, I hid my past and suppressed the signs of complex PTSD as much as possible. Despite violent nightmares and numerous other symptoms. I started my journey to heal myself 33. I now support men who wish to heal, evolve and live joyful, abundant lives. How to reach Hugh: https://www.facebook.com/TheSovereignsJourney/“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What an eye opening conversation about what living with Tourette’s look like. Most notably to me is when Kevin talks about feeling different in school. At one point even having to hold his head in class to keep the movements under control. About Our Guest:Kevin is a podcast host, author, and public speaker dedicated to raising awareness about life with Tourette’s. Through his podcast, he shares an honest, unfiltered look at what it’s like to live with Tourette’s on a daily basis—breaking down stigma and building understanding through real-life experiences.For over two years, Kevin has used his voice to educate, inspire, and advocate for those living with Tourette’s. He has expanded his mission into public speaking and has published a book sharing his journey. His goal is simple but powerful: to bring awareness, create connection, and help others feel seen, heard, and understood.How to reach Kevin: Facebook“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What a moving story and reminder that men need to be able to process through grief too. I absolutely loved this beautiful reminder of that! About Our Guest:I am a married father of two kids with multiple cognitive and physical disabilities (some rare). I was a Stay-at-Home Dad and medical caregiver for 12 years until my son suddenly and unexpectedly passed away from issues related to his needs on 01/28/22. Since the day my son passed, I decided that I was going to rise from the utter devastation to create a website, FB blog, and community called "Letters To Zachary" on grief that details my raw, unfiltered, and open grief journey from a father's perspective. "Letters To Zachary" is a place where men can feel vulnerable enough to share their emotion, empower women to help the grieving men in their lives, and see that it is OK to be vulnerable through my example. How to reach Jason: https://www.LettersToZachary.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552174684952 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@letterstozachary2022 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letterstozachary2022/ X: https://x.com/LettersToZach22“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.One of the most powerful takeaways for me?Healing isn’t just like peeling an onion…It’s like an artichoke.Layer by layer…until you reach the heart.And for so many—especially women who have experienced narcissistic abuse—that “heart” is finally feeling heard.About Our Guest:Kyle Miller is a personal empowerment coach specializing in helping people heal from narcissistic abuse. Through his own experience healing from a 14 year abusive relationship and over 20 years of study in personal development, he shows up for his clients in a way that allows them to truly feel seen, heard and understood. He also intimately understands the healing process, which allows him to walk with his clients through their own healing and take years or decades off the process with much less pain and struggle. Healing isn’t about feeling a little better, it’s about building, living and embracing a life you truly love!How to reach Kyle: https://kylemillercoaching.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kylemillercoach https://www.instagram.com/kylemillercoaching/ https://www.tiktok.com/@kylemillercoaching https://www.youtube.com/@Kylemillercoaching“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What stood out to me most in this conversation was the bond created through grief—and the strength it takes to keep moving forward while still carrying the love for those we’ve lost.About Our Guest:Alana is a vibrant, energetic Jersey girl living with bipolar disorder, openly sharing her story of both her highest highs and her most devastating lows. At just 22 years old, she moved to Los Angeles and became a successful reality TV casting director—but it was also during this time that she first experienced thoughts of suicide.Alana’s storytelling is incomparable, filled with honesty, humor, and heart. After losing her father to a massive heart attack this past December—and nearly losing her mother to a brain bleed just six weeks later—her life came to a screeching halt. In that pause, she felt God calling her to stop, reflect, and take a different path.Not knowing exactly where to go next, she started her podcast, “H.O.P.E – Hang On Pain Ends,” where she shares her journey through heartbreak, healing, faith, and rediscovering hope.Alana is passionate about speaking on mental illness, understanding depression and suicide, finding humor in life’s hardest moments, and believing in what we cannot always see—God, love, and the presence of those we’ve lost.She is honored to collaborate with Darcie in turning trauma and sadness into healing, faith, and hope.How to reach Alana : Podcast: H.O.P.E – Hang On Pain Ends“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What stood out to me most in this conversation was the power of surrender—and what can happen when you finally let go and let God step in.About Our Guest:Izelle’s story is one of deep struggle, breaking points, and ultimately surrender. In a moment where she felt ready to give up, she cried out for something greater—and what followed were undeniable moments of God’s presence guiding her through. Her journey is filled with what she calls ‘God winks,’ reminders that even in our darkest moments, we are never alone. Today, she shares her story to help others find hope, faith, and the courage to surrender.How to reach Izelle: http://shilohoperations.com“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt Series: Season in Blooming 🌸Follow The School of Hard Knocks and add it to your library so you never miss an episode.What stood out to me most in this conversation is the reminder of Gods timing and promise in every situation. From doubt in ourselves to addictions and more, he is always there. About Our Guest: In 2020, Clifton hit a rock bottom that nearly cost him his life. Drowning in addiction, grief, and suicidal thoughts, he was forced to stop escaping and finally confront his own foundation. Today, he’s just a man who found out the hard way that Jesus is enough. He turned his wreckage into a "Why" and is here to help others build on bedrock truth.How To Reach Clifton: Cliftondugosh.com | foundationfixdaily com“This is the place we get unstuck from trauma, and grounded in our healing”.

Rebuilt: Season In BloomingFollow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episodeTransformation isn’t just physical… it’s emotional, mental, and deeply personal.In this episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I sit down with Corey Pad, who shares his raw and honest journey through gastric sleeve surgery—and everything that came with it.Corey opens up about what life looked like before surgery, the struggles he faced as a plus-sized man, and the decision to make a life-changing commitment to his health.But what surprised him the most… wasn’t just the physical transformation.We talk about:✨ The reality of life before weight loss surgery✨ The physical and emotional challenges after surgery✨ The confidence that comes with change✨ Navigating relationships when your life starts shifting✨ What happens when not everyone supports your growthCorey doesn’t sugarcoat the journey—he shares the discomfort, the pain, and the truth about what it really takes to change your life.If you’re on your own transformation journey—whether physical or emotional—this episode will hit home.🎧 Tune in and remember… growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s always worth it.

Rebuilt: Season in blooming Featuring Heather ZimmermanSome conversations are powerful… and some feel divinely timed.In this episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I sit down with energy healer, intuitive, and channel Heather Zimmerman, whose work blends science, spirituality, and deep emotional healing.Heather shares her journey of transformation—from experiencing trauma, including SA and bullying, to stepping into her purpose of helping others heal and rise.This conversation goes beyond the surface.We talk about:✨ The ascension of humanity and what it really means✨ Blending psychology and spirituality in healing✨ Turning pain into purpose✨ Personal growth, awakening, and transformation✨ Finding hope after traumaAnd in a moment that neither of us could have planned… while I was speaking about my dad, the electricity suddenly went out—reminding us that sometimes the most powerful experiences happen in the unseen.If you’ve ever wondered how to rise from your past and step into something greater, this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in and let’s take another step toward healing—together.

Rebuilt: Season In Bloom Featuring Stacy SchafferFollow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Some wounds don’t start in adulthood… they start in childhood.In this deeply meaningful episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I sit down with licensed child therapist Stacy Schaffer, who brings over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, and families navigating grief, trauma, and healing.But this conversation goes beyond clinical insight.Stacy shares from both her professional expertise and her personal journey—offering a powerful look at how unspoken childhood experiences shape who we become… and how healing is possible at any stage of life.We talk about:✨ How grief shows up differently in children✨ Why emotional safety is critical for healing✨ Recognizing trauma before it becomes generational✨ What adults need to understand about the children in their livesIf you’ve ever wondered how to better support a child—or even heal the child within yourself—this episode will meet you right where you are.🎧 Listen in, and let’s start taking another brick out of the wall.You can reach Stacy here : www.stacyschaffer.com

Rebuilt: Season in Bloom — Featuring Aligned Anyway (Josh & Tiffany)🎧 Don’t forget to:​ Follow The School of Hard Knocks​ Add this episode to your library​ Share with someone who needs this messageIn this unique and powerful episode, I sit down with Josh and Tiffany, the voices behind the podcast Aligned Anyway, where two perspectives come together through honest, meaningful conversation.Josh shares the emotional experience of losing his brother-in-law and the weight of feeling like he may have been prompted to reach out before it happened. He opens up about supporting his husband through grief and learning what it truly means to hold space for someone in pain.Tiffany brings her own powerful story—being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and navigating the ups and downs that came with it. She shares how she found grounding, healing, and a new way forward.Together, they represent what it looks like when different life experiences come together in conversation, compassion, and connection.This episode is about grief, growth, and the power of being there for one another.✨ About Aligned AnywayAligned Anyway is a podcast hosted by Josh and Tiffany, where two individuals from different walks of life come together to have real, honest conversations about healing, growth, and the human experience.How to reach Aligned Anyway:https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/alignedanyway/

Rebuilt: Season in Bloom — Featuring Marlowe Kaufmann🎧 Don’t forget to:• Follow The School of Hard Knocks• Add this episode to your library• Share with someone who needs this message💎Marlowe is a trauma specialist and neuropsychology-informed therapist who challenges everything you think you know about healing, awakening, and “doing the work.” Blending neuroscience with raw lived experience, she doesn’t just talk about transformation—she’s survived it, dismantled it, and rebuilt herself from the inside out... Marlowe brings an unfiltered, embodied perspective on resilience, identity, and the hidden architecture of the human psyche WAYS TO REACH MARLOWEhttps://linktr.ee/positiveneurohealth https:youtube.com/@positiveneurohealth?si=eNPpOtNIvzhpk-QF https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlowe--b9081993https://www.facebook.com/marlowe.kaufmann https://www.instagram.com/marloweneuropsychology?igsh=cDJhZ3BwdW

In this heartfelt episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I sit down with Caryn Wurz to talk about navigating the unexpected loss of her husband and what life has looked like in the aftermath.Caryn shares the reality of grief—not as something you “get over,” but something you learn to carry while continuing to move forward. As a mother, she opens up about what it looks like to keep showing up, even on the hardest days.This is what healing can look like… not perfect, not linear—but steady, intentional, and deeply human.Caryn is not going backwards. She’s rebuilding.And her story is a powerful reminder that even in the middle of heartbreak, there is still strength, growth, and a path forward.✨ About Caryn WurzCaryn Wurz is a mother and resilient woman learning how to navigate life after loss. Through her journey, she continues to show what it means to move forward with strength, grace, and intention—one step at a time. 🎧 Don’t forget to:• Follow The School of Hard Knocks• Add this episode to your library• Share with someone who needs this message

Welcome back to The Rebuilt Series onThe School of Hard Knocks—where real stories meet real healing, and we have honest conversations about what it takes to rebuild your life from the inside out.In today’s episode, I sit down with Darius, whose story is one of transformation, second chances, and the power of surrender.Darius grew up in environments where survival was normal, and danger was part of everyday life. By the age of 16, he was already deeply involved in the streets, making choices that led him down a path that could have ended very differently.After facing serious legal consequences, Darius found himself at a turning point. The night before court, he fasted and prayed—asking God for one more chance… and promising he would do something different with it.What happened next changed everything.Instead of the sentence he expected, he was given an opportunity—one that became the beginning of a completely new life.Today, Darius is walking in his faith, serving in his church, and living proof that no past is too far gone to be redeemed.You can follow Darius’s journey on Facebook.What stood out to me in this conversation wasn’t just Darius’s story…It was the reminder of how quickly we judge what we see—and how wrong we can be.Darius and I come from completely different backgrounds on the surface…but we share pieces of the same story.We both remember what it was like to grow up with food stamps.We both understand what it means to come from less.And yet… if you placed us side by side,many people would assume very different things about each of us.That moment alone is something I won’t forget.If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs it.And remember…Healing isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about becoming authentically you. 🤍Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.

Welcome back to The Rebuilt Series onThe School of Hard Knocks—where real stories meet real healing, and we have honest conversations about what it takes to rebuild your life from the inside out.In today’s episode, I sit down with Terri Ann Russell, a speaker and author who shares powerful insights on energy, the nervous system, overwhelm, midlife transitions, and grief.Terri Ann’s work is deeply rooted in her personal journey through loss after the passing of her son—a story that has touched countless lives through her book and her message. She speaks into the spaces so many people are quietly navigating: overwhelm, emotional regulation, and learning how to live again after unimaginable loss.Her work reminds us that even in grief… there can still be connection.You can connect with Terri Ann here:https://linktr.ee/TerriAnnRussellWhat stood out to me in this conversation was the depth of presence… not just in grief, but in love that continues.Terri Ann shared how people reading her book have felt her son’s presence—one even smelling pizza… a simple, familiar moment that became something more.And it just makes you wonder…Is love ever really gone?Or does it just show up differently?If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs it.And remember…Healing isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about becoming authentically you. 🤍Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.

Welcome back to The Rebuilt Series onThe School of Hard Knocks—where real stories meet real healing, and we have honest conversations about what it takes to rebuild your life from the inside out.In today’s episode, I sit down with Rita Honeycutt, whose story is the definition of resilience and redefining what’s possible. After undergoing four heart surgeries and being told what she wouldn’t be able to do anymore, Rita made a decision to take her power back.Rita is an author and speaker who shares her powerful health journey to inspire others. After her fourth heart surgery, she went from barely being able to walk for 15 minutes to completing her first marathon this past October. As an ADA athlete, she continues to face challenges head-on—modifying her workouts, adapting to her body, and refusing to let limitations define her path.Today, she partners with a nonprofit organization to support other ADA athletes in their recovery and success, helping them believe in what’s still possible for their lives.You can connect with Rita here:https://flufftotuff.com/What stood out to me in this conversation was not just Rita’s strength—but the perspective shift that happened during that marathon.Watching other athletes cross that finish line…people being pushed in wheelchairs…a blind runner tethered to a loved one, trusting every step…It was a reminder that this journey isn’t about perfection.It’s about persistence.It’s about courage.It’s about showing up—exactly as you are—and still choosing to move forward.If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs it.And remember…Healing isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about becoming authentically you. 🤍

Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Sometimes growth isn’t something you talk about…It’s something you get tested on.In this episode, I share a real-life moment where I was pushed emotionally, mentally, and physically — and had to make a choice in real time.When my husband and I took care of our grand dog for a few days, what I thought would be a simple favor turned into a full-on nervous system challenge. Chaos, overstimulation, lack of sleep… and a constant opportunity to either react or regulate.And this time — I chose differently.We talk about the difference between being “triggered” and being “activated,” how awareness changes everything, and why true healing isn’t proven in quiet moments… but in the middle of real life.This episode is your reminder that:You don’t have to be perfect…You just have to be prepared.Because when the moment comes — and it will —you get to decide who you show up as.🎙️ The School of Hard Knocks PodcastWhere we become unstuck from trauma and grounded in our healing

In this special Good Friday feature of The School of Hard Knocks, I had the honor of sitting down with Pastor Yauo to hear a story that will stay with you long after this episode ends.Before becoming a pastor, leader, and pillar in the Wausau community, Pastor Yauo’s life began in unimaginable circumstances.While his mother was pregnant with him, his family fled for their lives—seeking safety in the jungle as refugees. During that time, his parents experienced devastating loss, forced to bury three of his siblings while fighting to survive.He was later born into a refugee camp, where life was confined, uncertain, and fragile.At the age of seven, he came to the United States and was met with an entirely new world—facing language barriers, bullying, and cultural isolation.But his story didn’t end there.He went on to serve in the military, earn his education, become a teacher and school leader, and eventually follow a calling that led him to start a church—first in his living room, and now as the pastor of The Cross Church.This conversation is about more than survival.It’s about faith.It’s about resilience.It’s about what’s possible when someone chooses purpose over pain.If you’ve ever questioned your path, your strength, or your ability to rise from what you’ve been through—this episode is for you.🎧 Listen in and share this with someone who needs a reminder that their story isn’t over.

Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Time is one of the most valuable things we have… and for many of us, our relationship with it has been shaped by more than just a busy schedule.In this episode, I sit down with C.W. Hawley, founder and CEO of Let’s Talk Time, a time strategy firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. Chrystal coaches leaders on how to gain time traction through customized time strategies, transformative goal setting, and self-leadership. She is also the author of Let’s Talk Time: Own Your Hours. Rule Your Life.Together, we talk about how past trauma can shape the way we view time, urgency, productivity, and control. Chrystal shares pieces of her own story, including early exposure to death, cancer, disappointment, and life experiences that deeply impacted the way she began relating to time.This conversation is thoughtful, honest, and a powerful reminder that sometimes what looks like drive on the outside is really survival on the inside.If you’ve ever felt like you were racing the clock, trying to outrun your past, or searching for a better way to lead yourself through life, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and let me know what resonated with you most.💛 This is the place where we become unstuck from trauma and grounded in our healing.

Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Today’s episode is a real and honest conversation about guilt… the kind that shows up when your heart wants to be there, but life—or your body—says otherwise.I’m sharing a personal moment from this past weekend when I had every intention of going to church… but physically couldn’t. And instead of offering myself compassion, I found myself carrying guilt for something that was completely out of my control.If you’ve ever:• Felt like you let someone down• Held yourself to impossible standards• Or punished yourself for something you didn’t choose…This episode is for you.Healing isn’t about being perfect.It’s about learning how to meet yourself with grace in the moments you need it most.You’re not failing.You’re human.And maybe… it’s time to give yourself the same grace you so freely give everyone else.🎧 Follow, share, and send this to someone who needs to hear it today.

 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected]’s been five months since my dad passed… and today, I’m reflecting on what life has looked like since that moment that changed everything.In this episode, I’m sharing the real, unfiltered journey of grief and growth—how I’ve navigated the hardest season of my life while still building, still showing up, and still becoming.From publishing my second book… to growing this podcast… to becoming a certified NLP Practitioner, Success Coach, and Clinical Hypnotherapist… I’ve learned that healing and progress can coexist.And maybe the most important lesson of all…A moment can stay a moment—if you let it.If you’re walking through grief, rebuilding your life, or learning how to hold both pain and purpose at the same time… this one is for you.

Follow The School of Hard KnocksStories that heal. Tools that stick.👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Have you ever noticed that when you’re feeling your worst—sick, tired, or completely run down—your partner suddenly seems extra affectionate or attracted to you?In this episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I explore the psychology behind why this sometimes happens in relationships. Is it instinct? Nurturing energy? Emotional closeness? Or something deeper in how we connect with one another during vulnerable moments?I share a real-life perspective and insight into how illness, vulnerability, and emotional safety can shift the dynamic between partners—and what it may reveal about connection, comfort, and intimacy.Sometimes the moments when we feel the least attractive are the ones where true closeness shows up the most.If you’ve ever experienced this surprising relationship dynamic, this conversation will definitely make you think.

🎧 Follow The School of Hard Knocks⭐ Leave a review if this episode spoke to you📲 Share it with someone who needs the reminder todayIn today’s episode of The School of Hard Knocks, I’m slowing down for a moment to talk about something we all chase… and something we sometimes forget.Yes, money matters. Goals matter. Dreams like traveling the world matter.But when the dust settles, the things that truly shape our lives are much simpler.Today I share a small moment that reminded me of that truth—watching my elderly neighbor step outside with excitement just to grab his mail. It brought me right back to memories of my grandpa doing the same thing, and it reminded me how powerful the little moments of connection really are.Life isn’t just about what we build or accumulate.It’s about the love we give, the memories we create, and the time we spend with the people who matter most.This episode is a reminder to slow down, breathe, and notice the moments that are happening right now.Because those are the ones that actually last.

Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] Seven months ago, I pressed record and launched The School of Hard Knocks.Since then? Growth. Healing. Stretching. Recalibrating.In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what these last seven months have really looked like — what I’ve learned, what I’ve outgrown, and what’s shifting next.This isn’t a rebrand.It’s an evolution.If you’ve been growing alongside me, this one is for you.We’re not starting over.We’re building forward.

👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] at breakfast, a simple conversation turned into something much deeper.We started talking about decisions — the ones we feel guilty about… and the ones we didn’t even realize we were making.Between the ages of 0–7, we absorb beliefs about love, safety, worth, and identity. We don’t choose them consciously — we inherit them.In this episode, I share:– How our formative years shape adult reactions– Why compliments once made me uncomfortable– The story of being 13 and told I was beautiful– And what it looks like to move from trauma responses to conscious healingAwareness gives us power.We can’t change what shaped us — but we can choose how we respond now.Let’s get unstuck from trauma… and stuck in healing.

Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] doesn’t just hurt — it exhausts you.In today’s episode, I’m talking about the kind of tired that sleep doesn’t fix. The emotional weight that sneaks up on you months later. The heaviness that makes even simple things feel overwhelming.I’m a little over four months into this season, and I’m sharing honestly about what grief has looked like for me lately — including the moments where I just don’t have the energy.But I’m also sharing the tools I use to keep grief from taking the whole day… or the whole week.You don’t have to bypass grief. You don’t have to power through it.You just have to learn how to move through it.If you’ve been feeling emotionally tired and wondering why, this one’s for you.

 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] this special feature episode, I join multiple authors from Queenie Publishing for a spotlight conversation hosted by the incredible founder herself.During my six-minute interview, she speaks about my journey — the resilience, the rebuilding, and the momentum I’ve continued to build even after the loss of my father.I introduce myself not just as an author, but as a woman who has walked through trauma, caregiving, grief, entrepreneurship, and healing — and chose not to stop.This conversation is short, but it represents something much bigger:the power of continuing forward even when life tries to knock you down.My upcoming book releases February 26 on Amazon for 99¢, with proceeds supporting education for women through UNICEF.This episode is a glimpse into that mission — and the woman behind the words.Welcome to the School of Hard Knocks.We’re not just surviving anymore. We’re building something that lasts.

👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected]’s episode is raw and real.I almost didn’t record it — not because I’m lazy, and not because I need perfection — but because I have a lot on my plate right now.In this short episode, I talk about the two real reasons I procrastinate:• Wanting what I create to truly benefit people (including myself)• Feeling stretched thin in a very full season of lifeIf you’ve been hard on yourself for “falling behind,” this is your reminder that sometimes procrastination isn’t avoidance — it’s overload.Give yourself grace. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect.And as always… we’re taking another brick out of your wall.

 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] 15, she believed she had found love.What followed were years of fear, control, and living in survival mode — protecting herself and her child while navigating abuse no one saw.In this powerful episode, Denise shares:• What kept her stuck• The moment she found her courage• How she rebuilt her life• And what safe love actually feels likeToday, she’s married to a partner who treats her with respect and runs her own company.This is a story about breaking cycles — and proving that peace is possible.

Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] an experience as a volunteer at our Special Needs Ministry this weekend, I came to realize how my journey of healing is truly healing other people. We are all a work in progress. Don’t give up on yourself!

👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected]’s episode is a little different.I was watching Pretty Woman and had a flashback to being 18 years old and saying, “I’m a safety girl.” What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was borrowing confidence from a character to help myself feel safe in a moment I wasn’t fully comfortable in.That led me down a bigger realization: for years, before interviews, doctor appointments, and high-pressure moments, I would imagine I was an actress stepping into a role. Not to be fake — but to access confidence that already lived inside me.This episode explores how to “put on the cape” when you need it… without losing who you really are.If you’ve ever needed a mental reset before walking into something hard, this tool might be for you.

👉 Hit follow and save this podcast so you don’t miss an episode. If you’d like to be a guest on the show, email…[email protected] do you do when the person you love most begins to change… and you can’t fix it?In this deeply emotional conversation, I sit down with Suzanne, author of Keep Your Healthy Mind When Your Loved One Loses Theirs.Suzanne shares her journey of walking alongside her adult daughter as unexpected mental health struggles began to surface — despite a life that looked stable on the outside. Married. Children. Adult responsibilities.And then… everything shifted.She opens up about:• The confusion of “How did this happen?”• The heartbreak of watching someone you love unravel• The guilt, fear, and isolation that caregivers often carry• And the practical tools she used to protect her own mental health while loving her daughter through itThis episode is for anyone who has ever felt helpless while watching someone they love struggle.You can’t control their storm.But you can learn how to anchor yourself.If you are walking through something similar — you are not alone.Press play.