Your Spiritual Journey

A native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Carine Fabius grew up in New York, moved to Miami at the age of 21 then headed west to Los Angeles, where she lives today. In 1990, she and her artist husband opened Galerie Lakaye, a contemporary gallery of ethnic art with a special focus on Haiti located in Hollywood. The gallery has been featured in various television shows and prestigious publications, including Vanity Fair, Bon Appetit Magazine, Los Angeles Times, Artillery Magazine, and many others. Over the years, Carine has curated some 90 gallery exhibitions at Galerie Lakaye and for museums and other cultural venues throughout Southern California. Carine is also the author of seven fiction and non-fiction books. She was a regular contributor to Huffpost for 10 years, writing about arts, culture, lifestyle, business, and politics. Her new book is titled Getting to a Better Place, A Way for Men (and Women) to Chart a New Path. Carine has also been on a spiritual path since the age of 20 when she met her Indian teacher Prem Rawat, who travels the world speaking about the possibility of peace.

Marie Major is a spiritual author and speaker who helps you move from feeling lost in time's illusion to resting in the truth of divine timing. Her book, "Looking Beyond the Tides of Time," guides you to see time not as a line, but as a living energy record, a cosmic story we are meant to co-author. Marie bridges celestial guidance and practical energy medicine, helping you read the rhythm of your soul and align with the universe's flow. She believes true manifestation is sacred resonance. It begins when we harmonize our energy with the cosmos, transform old timelines, and consciously collaborate with life's currents. This is where intention meets grace, and longing becomes embodied creation.

Gina Cavalier is an author, artist, wellness leader, speaker, and Wellness Program Director at Sedona Mago Retreat Center and is dedicated to healing, connection, and the restoration of meaning in modern life. Her work bridges mindfulness, embodied wellness, mental health advocacy, and community-building, with a particular focus on supporting those experiencing suicidal ideation and emotional suffering. Gina is the international bestselling co-author, along with Dr. Amelia Kelley, of Surviving Suicidal Ideation – From Therapy, to Spirituality, and the Lived Experience, a deeply personal and compassionate workbook that has helped readers around the world feel seen, supported, and less alone. Her writing is grounded not only in professional practice but also in lived experience—offering hope, practical tools, and a reminder that healing is possible even in the darkest moments. Her highly anticipated book, Planet Walking: A Handbook for the Living, expands her work into a broader, soul-centered exploration of purpose, embodiment, and humanity's relationship with the Earth and one another. The book invites readers to remember who they are, reconnect with their innate wisdom, and walk their lives with greater presence, love, and responsibility to the collective.  Gina is also the founder and inventor of Bio-Good™ Eco Products, an emerging sustainable innovation company focused on reducing unnecessary plastic waste. She is currently developing product prototypes with a long-term vision of significantly decreasing single-use plastics through conscious design and environmentally responsible alternatives. She is working with investors to create a win-win business environment that will change how we buy and use beauty products and, in the future, laundry products. Across all her work—writing, speaking, wellness leadership, and innovation—Gina is guided by a singular intention: love. Love as action. Love as a bridge. Love is a force that can close the gaps between communities, reduce suffering, and support collective healing. Motivated to catch those who are on the Edge of Life. She is deeply committed to building global programs and initiatives that address mental health, support suicide prevention, and help people remember their inherent worth and belonging. Gina Cavalier's work stands at the intersection of personal healing and collective responsibility, offering a hopeful and grounded path forward for individuals and communities alike. 

Peter Coyote began a career in film at 39, after living nearly a dozen years in the counterculture during the 1960s and 70s. Since then, he has performed as an actor for some of the world's most distinguished filmmakers, including Barry Levinson, Roman Polanski, Pedro Almodovar, Steven Spielberg, Walter Hill, Martin Ritt, Steven Soderberg, Diane Kurys, Sidney Pollack and Jean Paul Rappeneau. To date he has made over 150 films. Mr. Coyote has written a memoir of his counterculture years called Sleeping Where I Fall which received universally excellent reviews, appeared on three best-seller lists and sold five printings in hardback after being released by Counterpoint Press in 1999. In 2011 he was ordained as a Zen Buddhist priest and in 2015 received "transmission" from his teacher, making him an independent Zen teacher. His 2024 book is an engaging guide to Zen Buddhism, and it helps us peer beneath the Japanese gift-wrapping of Zen teachings to reveal the fundamental teachings of the Buddha and show how they can be applied to contemporary daily life. Peter explains that the majority of Western Buddhists are secular and many don't meditate, wear robes, shave their heads, or believe in reincarnation. He reminds us that the mental/physical states achieved by Buddhist practice are universal human states, ones we may already be familiar with but perhaps never considered as possessing spiritual dimensions. Exploring Buddha's core teachings, Peter shares his own secular and accessible interpretations of the Four Noble Truths, the Three Treasures, and the Eightfold Path within the context of his lineage and the teachings of his teacher and the teachers before him. He looks at Buddha's teachings on our singular reality that appears as a multiplicity of things and on the "self" that perceives reality, translating powerful spiritual experience into the vernacular of modern life. Revealing the practical usefulness of Buddhist philosophy and practice, Zen in the Vernacular: Things as it Is shows how Zen offers a creative problem-solving mechanism and moral guide ideal for the stresses and problems of everyday life.

Deshawna Bentley is a psychic medium, intuitive guide, and founder of EnergeticallyGifted.com. Her work blends spiritual insight, intuitive communication, and gentle energy-based practices, including Pranic Healing-informed and Reiki-informed approaches. She supports people in moments where words are limited-working with non-speakers and altered or unresponsive states of consciousness- by offering grounding, presence, and an intuitive connection. 

Empath by nature and changemaker by trade, Liz Moyer Benferhat has worked in the sustainable development field for nearly twenty years, so she knows how much heart goes into caring about our world. This is why she launched "We Heal For All" in 2018—to support fellow helpers, healers, and change makers with the many normal feelings that come with being alive and attuned to the changes in our world. Through healing Circles, writing, meditations, and trainings, she offers collective healing as a way to make sense of the world's pain and as a set of practices for what to do about it. She lives in the Bronx, NY, with her husband, daughter, and cat, and holds a Master of Public Administration in Development Practice from Columbia University.

Kris Land is an award-winning, conscious entrepreneur, and spiritual teacher whose work explores awakening through fear, remembrance, and inner truth. He is the author of The Infinity Within, a genre-defying book that blends spiritual insight, emotional honesty, and mythic storytelling. Alongside his creative work, Kris is a veteran CEO and serial entrepreneur who has founded 12 high-tech companies, achieving 11 successful exits and one IPO. His decades of real-world leadership bring grounded depth to conversations about healing, purpose, and conscious creation. He is the founder of Amazing Items 4U Publishing and Campaign Catalysts Marketing, and a husband and father of three boys. Over 30 years in the making and completed in 2025, The Infinity Within is Kris's most personal and profound work. A story-driven spiritual journey, it invites readers to break through fear, trust their inner knowing, and remember the divine truth woven through their lives. Through mysticism, reflection, and lived wisdom, the book offers a mirror and a map for those ready to awaken.

Dr. David Speer's work brings together the best current holistic knowledge and the world's religions. One of his great loves is reflexology. David has studied and practiced hand and foot reflexology by observing closely, learning from masters in the field, and remaining open to the wonders of the universe. He is often able to resolve past, present and even future imbalances in the body. David holds a Ph.D. in Naturopathy, a B.S. in Mathematics, is certified in Electro-Psychometrics and certified as a Level 7 Advanced Practitioner in Phoenix Vibrational Healing, which addresses the underlying foundation of the entire body, mind, energy field complex, sometimes called the morphogenetic field, to clear discordant energetic blockages to facilitate healing. He is a past president for the Hypnotism Society of Pennsylvania, America's oldest established hypnotism society. He is also a master reflexologist, a master practitioner in Reiki and a spiritual minister. He has studied with masters in Ortho-Bionomy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. David has served as a popular and well-respected instructor, intuitive counselor and speaker. His venues include guest-speaking and platform reading at the local Spiritualist Church and instructing at the Community College of Allegheny County, the Pittsburgh School of Massage and Lily Dale Assembly, Inc, in New York. David first became interested in holistic healing in 1981 while participating in a massage class. He discovered that once stress is removed the spirit-mind-body can respond naturally to bring about holistic healing for the individual. He has since traveled around the world, and looks forward to visiting the Philippines again.

The first of our series of interviews providing you with spiritual tools you can use to help you navigate the chaos around you and bring you peace. Prashanthi Amarnath comes to us from India to bridge the ancient wisdom ot the Tao Te Ching with practical tools for everyday life. Her book, "Embracing Paradox," provides the reader with the core message of each of the 81 verses of the Tao, as well as their applications and relevence for everyday life with help from her personal experience with each verse. She also provides us with a Mantra for each verse. Her story of growing up around multiple belief systems, and the influence of her Guru, Sri Sathya Sai Baba add to our appreciation for her lived approach to spirituality.

From a young age, Eva Muller was looking for something that made her feel fulfilled and gave her a purpose in life. When she thought she had found it, for example, in her law degree, sports, a good job, traveling, etc., she discovered it wasn't actually what she was looking for - there had to be something more. So, even though she had a good life, there was always a feeling that something was missing, a sense of emptiness and lack, which caused her to experience a lot of emotional suffering, sadness, and hopelessness. ​About six years ago, Eva became interested in meditation and had a very significant experience right away that made her curious. Through listening to a guided meditation, she fell into such a deep state where nothing existed anymore: no Eva, no thoughts, no emotions, no worldly problems, just a deep sense of peace and quiet, clarity, and absolute freedom. From that moment on, she wanted to experience more of that. Over years of dedicated spiritual practice, Eva experienced various levels of consciousness, such as Self-Realization, God Consciousness, Unity Consciousness, Brahman Consciousness (the Absolute), and beyond. With that development, she became a conduit for high-vibrational Divine energies. Healing abilities started to develop, along with other spiritual abilities and a broader understanding of optimizing and transforming the human system. Since then, Eva has helped thousands of people from all over the world, guiding them on their path to spiritual awakening and healing. Her personal website: em-healing.com hosts free weekly online meditations attended by hundreds.

I found Barbara With's book "Imagining Einstein" to be so intriguing that I started an online book discussion group this month to discuss its content. Barbara is an international peace activist, award-winning author, composer and performer, workshop facilitator and she has authored six nonfiction books on metaphysics about her research as a psychic channel who works with a group called the "Party," headed up by Albert Einstein. She is also the co-founder of Conflict REVOLUTION®️, a revolutionary way to resolve conflicts of the psyche as a pathway to global peace, based on her work channeling Einstein. She is currently on a World Peace Tour, seeking the participation of the "willing" to take part in a Worldwide Nonviolent Action to End the Age of War, using Conflict REVOLUTION®️ to make peace within as a pathway to global peace.

Fr. Bernie Tickerhoof is a friar of the Sacred Heart Province of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis. As a member of Franciscan Pathways, the community's retreat ministry, Fr. Bernie offers retreats and spiritual programs in pastoral centers, parishes, and religious congregations. He has developed a variety of programs on holistic spirituality, faith and biblical conversion, and community development.           Fr. Bernie was ordained in 1978. He has traveled widely throughout the country in a ministry of preaching, spiritual conferences, and retreats. He has ministered extensively in Franciscan Spirituality, working through the Franciscan Federation of the U.S. and as a spiritual assistant for the Secular Franciscan Order at the local, provincial, and regional levels. He has also served his community for many years as a formator, in both initial and ongoing formation.           Fr. Bernie maintains an active ministry in the spiritual direction of a number of individuals, lay, religious, and clerical.  Other interests include storytelling, social justice, ecumenism and inter-faith, holistic spirituality, and ecological concerns.  He is the author of several books and articles on various aspects of the spiritual life. His most recent book, The One Body of Christ in a Quantum Age, published in 2024, explores the relationship between spirituality and contemporary science.

Betska K-Burr comes to us from Vancouver Island. Although she is the author of multiple books, our focus is on "i Heal Me: Personal Journeys of Healing, Wisdom and Tools to Heal Emotional, Physical and Spiritual Trauma" which was written in collaboration with Katie Tran. Betska is the developer of The Science of Mind-Kinetics(R) Coaching System. She is an accredited Master Coach and was named in 2019 and 2020 one of the top global management consultants by CEO Today Magazine. She works with coaches and leaders on five continents and is the co-host of the podcast "Mindful Leaders Beyond Borders." She is also the co-president of Coaching and Leadership International, Inc. She is known as the Guru coach, an honor bestowed upon her during one of her many trips to India. I had a 90-minute session with Betska following this interview and can attest to the value of receiving her guidance using her self-healing process.

Kyle Harder was born in Kenya to missionary parents and lived there on and off until the age of fifteen, immersed early in cultures where spirituality, community, and daily life were deeply intertwined. After moving to the Detroit area for high school, he attended the University of Michigan, majoring in Social Anthropology, where his interest in belief systems, ritual, and how humans create meaning deepened. After college, Kyle moved to Pittsburgh and spent years working with teens in the dependency and delinquency system, including at a shelter for girls removed from their homes by Children and Youth Services. Alongside becoming a father, he experienced the profound loss of an infant son. In the years that followed, he developed an addiction to alcohol and ultimately entered inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. After treatment, he became a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, beginning a long-term commitment to recovery. Today, Kyle has fourteen years of sobriety. He is also the proud father of a daughter who is currently a senior at Colorado State University. Raised in a deeply faithful Christian household, his spiritual path has included seasons of faith, doubt, agnosticism, and atheism. In 2023, he traveled to New Hampshire to study Vedic meditation with George Peterson, and over the past two years his spirituality has evolved toward Eastern and Vedic traditions. Through that work, he was introduced to breathwork, trained as a facilitator in New Mexico, and in 2024 began guiding breathwork healing sessions. Kyle also serves on the boards of Prevention Point Pittsburgh, Artspiration, and the Pittsburgh Recovery Walk, supporting healing, creativity, and recovery in his community.

Based in Copenhagen, Pia Leichter is a creative partner, certified coach, author of 'Welcome to the Creative Club', and founder of Kollektiv Studio. A recovering nomad and chaos curator, she's worked as an award-winning creative director for some of the biggest brands in the world. Now, Pia co-creates wild visions and ventures with unconventional dreamers and doers. She has reported as a journalist in Sri Lanka, graduated summa cum laude from NYU, and worked as an award-winning creative director for some of the biggest brands in the world. Now, as the founder of Kollektiv Studio, she's uniquely positioned to co-create wild visions and ventures. She recently published "Welcome to the Creative Club," a book that challenges everything people thought they knew about creativity. Praised by Google's Global Head of Creative & Innovation as "life-changing" and by iconic fashion designer Betsey Johnson as "a wild ride," this part-memoir, part-guide invites readers to make life their biggest art project and reclaim their creative power.

Sara Sachs is an international medium based in Pittsburgh, PA. Sara holds a BA degree in drama at Syracuse University, a background she attributes to her strong presence in her public demonstrations. Her spiritual education in mediumship took place at Lily Dale, NY, the Arthur Findlay College in England, and the Zwanenhof Spiritual Center in the Netherlands. She travels extensively doing sittings, demonstrations, and teaching workshops. Her work has put her in demand for radio and television appearances. Sara enjoys serving Spirit by giving inspirational talks and messages at Spiritualist Churches and outdoor message services in Lily Dale NY in the summer. She has done readings, gallery messages, and taught workshops locally at Journeys of Life, Elemental Magick, and presently at the Christine Frechard Gallery. You can find her on Facebook and Instagram, and she has her Sara Sachs Mediumonthego channel on YouTube, where she uses Tarot to see how current events are affecting our spiritual paths. 

Kenneth D. Wortley was born in 1951 in Saginaw, Michigan USA, to a blue collar family of four. He attended Eastern Baptist College and Seminary where he received his Bachelor degree in Sociology and earned his Master's degree in Theology in Philadelphia Pennsylvania in 1978 . He was married in the summer of 1972. He and his spouse have two grown boys who live in the state of Washington. Ken successfully served as Pastor and Preacher in churches in Colorado, Portland Oregon, and Walnut Creek California, ending his church work in Spokane Washington. He left the church to earn another master's degree in education at Eastern Washington University and began to teach middle school in Spokane Schools for 20 years.  Upon retiring from teaching he married a Brasilian in 2014 and they moved to Joao Pessoa Brasil, where he presently teaches English through an online company with students from across the entire country. He and his partner enjoy the beautiful beaches and the wonderful culture of Brasil. When he went through divorce and came out as a gay man late in life, he journaled his journey which became the basis of his new book "The Gospel Of Secrets; A Memoir of Truth, Liberation and Love". The book reached #1 on Amazon for new LGBTQ+ Memoir books.

Dr. Heidi Heron, a globally recognized psychologist, NLP Master Trainer, and co-founder of NLP Worldwide has penned a book that's a modern fable exploring authentic, values-driven living through psychology and spirituality. In "The Wizard of Cause," Dr. Heidi masterfully weaves psychology, spirituality, and storytelling into a modern parable that delves into the essence of living a life guided by authentic values. This transformative narrative, born from a project initially intended as a non-fiction exploration of Values, unfolds a deeply human story of self-discovery. It invites readers to question their performed lives and tune into their inner wisdom. This book is not your typical self-help guide; it serves as a mirror, prompting reflection, dialogue, and gentle awakening. It resonates with themes of purpose, self-trust, love, resilience, and identity, making it a timeless piece for those interested in personal growth, conscious living, and values-based change. Dr. Heidi's unique blend of academic grounding and accessible wisdom, drawn from her extensive experience as a psychologist and NLP master trainer, lends credibility and depth to the narrative. "The Wizard of Cause" is more than a novel; it's a catalyst for transformation, making it an excellent resource for discussion groups and coaching conversations. It is a testament to Dr. Heidi's ability to bridge psychology and spirituality, offering insights through metaphor and conscious storytelling.

Juliana Sloane is a skilled hypnotherapist, coach, and Buddhist meditation teacher whose approach blends mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychospiritual tools. Juliana's work centers on guiding sensitive, high-functioning individuals through transformative inner healing using modalities like Depth Hypnosis and shamanic journey work. Her practice is often described as "evidence-based magic"—accessible and grounded, yet able to spark meaningful, sustained change from within. Juliana holds an MA in Gender Studies from Central European University, a BA in Religious & Women's Studies from Guilford College, is a Certified Depth Hypnosis Practitioner, Certified Applied Shamanic Practitioner, Community Dharma Leader at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Ordained Minister with the Foundation of the Sacred Stream, and a Certified Hypnotherapist. Her teaching at respected centers like Spirit Rock and San Francisco Insight affirms her commitment to ethical, caring guidance. With a humble but engaged audience of over 5,500 spiritual seekers, Juliana is adept at connecting with those eager for real tools and insight.

Gil Gillenwater, a lifelong resident of Arizona, is the founder and president of the award-winning Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation, which has reimagined border philanthropy since 1987. For nearly four decades, he has worked hands-on along the U.S.–México border, building programs that empower communities through reciprocal giving and shared dignity. He is a recipient of the Hon Kachina Award, Arizona's highest honor for volunteerism, as well as the National Association of Realtors annual "Good Neighbor Award," likewise honoring volunteerism. In 2021, he became the first non-Mexican to receive Sonora's Premio a la Filantropía, as the individual philanthropic person of the year, recognizing his cross-border philanthropic work.  In 2009, Gillenwater partnered with the nonprofit Free the Slaves to launch the Free a Village program—an ambitious initiative that helps entire villages in India, often up to 20 families, transition from slavery to freedom within three years. The program's community-wide approach to liberation and empowerment caught global attention and was selected by former President Bill Clinton as a featured initiative at his Clinton Global Initiative, a gathering of the world's leading thinkers, philanthropists, and changemakers.  A lifelong student of Eastern philosophy and meditation, Gillenwater is a black belt in Kenpo Karate and a certified hot yoga instructor. An outdoorsman at heart, he has had countless wilderness adventures around the world and has visited over 75 countries. In 1994, he and his brother Troy were among the first Westerners granted access by the Communist Chinese into Tibet's forbidden "Himalayan Hidden Lands." His six expeditions and time spent studying with remote Tibetan lamas and mystics inspired a philosophy of enlightened self-interest that now guides his approach to social change with Rancho Feliz.

Karlie McWilliams, a native Pittsburgher, is a senior at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (PTS). Karlie has worked in the past as a mechanical engineer and a web developer. She grew up a United Methodist and has always been active in her church. A decade ago, Karlie—who at the time held conservative evangelical views—realized she could no longer live a lie, and after much wrestling with God and her faith she decided to transition. Karlie has been living as her true self, a woman, for eight years now, but no one was more surprised than she when God called her to seminary and is currently a student pastor at Waverly Presbyterian Church. She is planning on pursuing a Doctorate in Theology, Trauma, and Ethics after she graduates from PTS.

Beatty Carmichael is a health and addiction breakthrough expert who specializes in exposing the hidden spiritual roots behind conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, addiction, and chronic pain. After 25 years in business, he uncovered a disruptive truth: many issues we label as mental illness or chronic conditions aren't medical at all—they're spiritual torments misdiagnosed as disease. By identifying and removing these spiritual oppressors, he's helped over 1,000 people experience lasting freedom—often within 24 hours—from struggles that therapy and medicine couldn't resolve. His method consistently delivers a nearly 90% success rate, even in long-term or treatment-resistant cases. He outlines this simple, step-by-step process in his book, The Prayer of Freedom. Today, he shares why so many people stay stuck—and how lasting freedom begins once the misdiagnosis is exposed and the true spiritual root is removed. A graduate of Auburn University, Beatty began his career as a small business entrepreneur before answering a higher calling that radically redirected his life. He is also the founder of Get Radical Faith Ministries, a nonprofit teaching organization that reaches audiences worldwide through live events, podcasts, and video broadcasts. Beatty lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife, Peggie. They have three grown children and are passionate about helping others experience the freedom they were meant to live.

Isabel Wells is a spiritual facilitator and mentor who bridges the gap between science and spirituality. Her work helps individuals restore balance by rewriting subconscious patterns and reconnecting with their inner wisdom. With a background in nursing, psychology, holistic health, and spiritual healing, she now blends neuroscience with ancient Shamanic teachings to touch all aspects of her clients' wellbeing. She is the founder of Gateway House of Healing and the former Director of Moon Rising Spiritual Institute. She will be a featured presenter at the Northeast Reiki Retreat (NERR) April 30-May 3, 2026 at Silver Bay YMCA. Isabel is certified in modalities including Reiki, EFT, and Coaching, and she received her Shamanic training under instructors such as Kim Doney Boyle, Beth Beurkens, and Christine Renee. Her approach is grounded, compassionate, and rooted in the belief that healing is a process of remembering who you truly are. Our thanks to the NERR for sponsoring this episode.

Cynthia Cavitt has more than 28 years of experience of energy healing. She began her journey into self-healing in her early 30's after experiencing many allergies and illnesses throughout her childhood and adult life. She began with learning about herbs and homeopathic healing and taking a physical approach to her healing. In 1997 she began her journey into energetic healing while taking massage classes. She learned about crystals and their energetic properties and how they could help with healing while also beginning her journey into Reiki and energetic modalities. She also felt called to become a Universal Life Minister at this time. She is now a Reiki master in 10 different forms of Reiki. Cindy has worked with SRT(Spiritual Response Therapy), EFT(Emotional Freedom Technique), OrthoBionomy (which she calls Spontaneous Release), crystal healing, Access Bars, channeling and light language for a number of years. Cindy makes custom jewelry  and pendulums so that you can have access to some of Cindy's healing energy when she is not with you.  When one books a session with her, it is unique to the person's needs at the time of the session. She incorporates different modalities into the healing depending upon the needs of the client. The client is also given information to help them learn how to do healing and clearing for themselves.  Website:   www.cynthiacavitt.com  Email:  [email protected]  

Paulette first discussed her spiritual journey with us on Episode #23 in June of 2023. She returns to discuss the latest development in her spiritual work: expelling spirits that haven't moved on and have taken possession of bodies where they are not welcome. She still practices Transcendental Meditation but has cut back on her Reiki practice to allow for the many clients who need rid of spirits that make them feel not themselves. Paulette Glover holds an M.Ed. from California University of PA and a Supervisor of Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh. She is certified as a Mindful Level II Instructor by Dr. Christopher Willard, Harvard University.  Her experience of teaching students with special needs spans decades as she continues her mission to help children succeed. Her spiritual journey began as a five-year-old when she was gifted with Acute Rheumatic Fever in 1953. She recognizes that the months of being alone in a hospital, not allowed to walk or participate in any of the activities the other kids were doing was a lesson to learn the art of stillness, and the ability to go within, needed as preparation to recognize the value of meditation necessary for her spiritual journey. A college student in the 1960's, she met a student from the Maharishi Institute, who introduced her to Transcendental Meditation, a practice that she continues to this day. In the mid 1990's came a disappointment that turned into another gift of Grace from the Universe. On the exact same day that a job promotion that was told would be hers was given to someone else, a friend introduced her to the possibilities of Reiki. Once again, her belief that we are where we are meant to be, was reinforced. From that day on, her spiritual path opened to become a Reiki/Master Teacher and to practice several other healing practices, such as having the Grace be able to study White Light healing in South Africa with Alf Reynolds, who has entrusted Paulette as the Coordinator of the White Chapel Lectures, channeled during the 1960's. However, the best was yet to come. The most amazing transformational change occurred in 2012. Paulette was gifted with a Near Death Experience during a heart attack, where she narrowly survived a 100% blockage, often referred to as the widow-maker. Since her heart attack, her abilities have grown where she has been guided to share her NDE experience, to help others learn how to connect with their angels, and to be gifted with the ability to clear unwanted, negative energies. Paulette is the author of Mindfully Ever After. Mindfully Ever After is a book for all ages about how to navigate relationships in order to keep the spark of love alive and in alignment to helping others on the path to improved health on a cellular level, Paulette is a National Sales Representative for Swiss Bionics Solutions. A Pulsed Electromagnetic Field medical device bridges science with spiritual energy, one cell at a time.

Abby Bolton is a visionary artist and transformation consultant whose work explores the profound connection between energy, intention, and the spaces we inhabit. Through soul-inspired, abstract fluid acrylics, she creates art that serves as a bridge between the tangible and the unseen—capturing the movement of energy, the unfolding of personal evolution, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. Infused with intention, vibrational energy, and intuitive flow, Abby's paintings act as visual anchors for spiritual alignment, self-reflection, and transformation. Her immersive creative process incorporates palette knives, breath, dotting tools, and embellishments such as genuine crystals and mandala-inspired metallic detailing—infusing each piece with both texture and energetic resonance. Guided by themes of rootedness, ascension, and divine connection, Abby's work reflects the balance between stability and expansion—grounding us in self-awareness while inviting growth toward higher wisdom. Inspired by the divine feminine across cultures, her paintings invite the viewer to experience the sacred within—what Jewish tradition calls the shekhinah, or the indwelling presence of the divine. In addition to creating fine art, Abby helps individuals and businesses align their environments through SpaceLift Consultations and custom brand-infused artwork—integrating feng shui, color psychology, and intentional design to transform spaces into sources of clarity and inspiration. She also leads private team workshops, using art as a tool to unlock creativity, deepen vision, and shape environments that support mission, values, and well-being. Whether through custom commissions, energy-infused art, or holistic space alignment, Abby's work is dedicated to elevating both space and spirit. She holds a BA from Smith College, is a Leadership Pittsburgh graduate, as well as a Certified Human-Centered Design (Design Thinking) Practitioner through the LUMA Institute. In 2023, following other significant personal and professional changes, and a continued feeling of misalignment, she finally listened to my ever-louder inner voice, taking a bold leap away from a successful 15+ year corporate consulting career to pursue my soul's purpose: creating art to elevate both space and spirit and founded Abby Bolton Arts.     Before transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship, she specialized in change management, strategic communications, leadership and team development, and culture transformation, and spent a decade at the fast-growing strategy activation consultancy, TiER1 Performance Solutions, supporting high-performance teams and cultures, followed by in-house change strategy roles in the healthcare and finance industries Her commissioned work is collected by numerous individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations, which include Leadership Pittsburgh Inc., Frederick Wells Advisors, and POWER (PA Organization for Women in Early Recovery), where she is honored to be creating paintings to support healing, hope and renewal in the group therapy spaces of their new campus.  She has participated in several Pittsburgh-area art exhibitions, garnered awards in international online art competitions, and been a featured artist in the OMA Center for Mind, Body & Spirit's "Art as a Sacred Channel" event and instructor at the 2025 "Connecting to Source" retreat.  Her work is for sale in her studio/gallery in Etna, PA and online. 

Christine Frechard has had several different careers: from Academics, French teacher and CEO of IIAL (Institute of International art and Languages) to an art gallery owner for 21 years. Then, last year, she successfully became a certified coach for High potential, intellectual, emotional and neurodivergent individuals. She was raised in France as a catholic but always questioned the dogma and the orthodoxy. At 20 years old, she had a profound near death experience after suffering 3 weeks of total insomnia triggered by a challenging trip to Greece. Prior to the NDE, she tapped into a higher intelligence that understands everything beyond words. This changed her life forever as she went on a deeper quest to find answers, bring awareness of magic and healing power around and within us, as well as soul connections. She realized that life is impermanent, but our souls are eternal and connected. She became passionate about Tarot & Pendulum readings. She studied the Bovis scale and she applies it into spiritual guidance experience, as well as her healing power. Christine just reopened an art gallery 2 months ago in Garfield where for the first time, she is willing to share her gift, along with other readers. Every Thursday there is a Tarot evening at the gallery between 4 and 8 pm. On Sunday, the gallery offers Mediumship circles, healing classes, mediumship classes and more. This is a very welcoming space where art and magic coexist.

Rita is an Advanced Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, MSW/LCSW, and Integrative trauma healing specialist.  She has worked extensively with clients with deep grief and loss, anxiety and PTSD, auto-immune disorders and cancer as well as people in addiction recovery. Rita studied Reiki in the early 2000's and has level 3 Reiki training. This led to many shifts in her professional career working as a "traditional talk therapist" (LCSW) to a body-centered and intuitive healer.  When she discovered and began studying Eden Energy Medicine (with Donna Eden) in 2017, eventually becoming an Advanced Practitioner, she realized she had finally found her passion and the work she was meant to do in this world.  She was also led to study intuitive training with Kim Chestney as well as Soul Empowerment Hypnosis with Courtney Starkey, which deepened and broadened her skills as an intuitive holistic healer. She has an active psychotherapy and Energy Medicine practice where she incorporates all the intuitive training and gifts she has received from Eden Energy Medicine, Intuition Lab, and Spiritual Empowerment Hypnosis training.  Rita is very passionate about the sacred work of Energy Medicine.  Through this work and the introduction to past life regression, as well as her unexpected meeting of someone in 2013 that made her realize there is "no other explanation", she has come to believe in the soul's journey through many lifetimes. Rita identifies her work as spiritual and believes that true healing happens on the spiritual level. She believes we are all connected and together we can change the world.  Rita identifies herself as a Light being in this world whose path of self-discovery and spiritual growth has evolved from childhood as a "cradle Catholic", to a strong belief and connection to Source and many "soul tribe" guides. She chose to move out of the church after experiencing and witnessing multiple levels of unwellness.  She believes this was a Source guided choice that opened her up and deepened her connection to Source.  Rita worked in group private practices for over 20 years until launching her own private practice In Harmony Energy Balancing and Healing, LLC, in January 2022. She is very passionate about her work and life path and is excited to share her gifts with this community and the world. 

 Rev. Robyn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Reiki Master Healer and Teacher, and an Ordained Spiritualist Minister. Spiritualism is the Science, Philosophy and Religion of continuous life, based upon the demonstrated fact of communication with those who live in the Spirit World, proven through mediumship. She has written two nonfiction books which show our extraordinary powers of Unconditional Love and Faith in action. Some call Rev. Robyn an Earth Angel. She's been able to embody the Christ Consciousness and move mountains for many people here on Earth, just as Jesus said we could. It has taken her since 1987, when her spiritual awakening began in the form of prophetic dreams, to stand in her spiritual power publicly. Since 1990, Source Energy has worked through her to heal others.      Robyn's journey to becoming a vessel for the Christ Consciousness has been filled with trauma. She endured many hardships in life including codependency as a child, to escaping domestic violence as a young woman. Her truth shows that what happens to us does not have to define us as she turns each experience into an opportunity for her Soul's growth.      Her Mental Health/Spiritual Operations Manual, "I am the Reluctant Messiah and So Are YOU," provides a blueprint to follow to help us step into the vibration of the Christ Consciousness. It provides a simple yet profound model to understand our feelings and gives us tools to heal the trauma blocking our heart-space as stagnant energy. She created a template to reframe our way of thinking to see ourselves as a Spirit first, using our physical body as a vehicle of transport similar to how a 4-stroke combustion engine transports a car.      

Winnie Xi was born in China where the communist government has made it hard for people to practice any form of religion. She says that it is by God's amazing grace that she saw His light, converted to Christianity and then attended Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Listen to a former English professor share her spiritual journey towards Jesus. Note that her name has been changed to protect her family members in mainland China. She was fortunate to have a father who valued her as a girl in a time when many girl babies were left on hillsides, aborted, or given away for adoption. Her story provides a first-hand account of growing up in China during tumultuous times, including the Tiananmen Square Massacre. 

Sarah Soltow was a guest in episode #37 of this podcast, which aired in September of 2023. This episode brings us up-to-date on her research on the "organ of awareness" - fascia, the importance of breath work, and her angel encounters. Sarah Soltow found her way to Reiki and energy work in 2009 after a long career in education. Originally from West Virginia, she and her husband Fred lived in Phoenix, AZ for 6 years. In January 2020, they moved Back East and now reside on 15 acres of land just outside of Richmond, VA.  Her journey to wholeness includes Reiki, crystals and vibrational energy work, finding connection with healing the land around her, and a continuing exploration of the role of the fascial system, i.e. connective tissue, in the body's ability to receive and transmit intuitive and healing energies.  In addition to these pursuits, Sarah is a fiber artist who creates basketry with pine needles provided by a tree in her front yard. 

Patty Elvey is a dedicated student of life using every experience for learning and greater awareness. Her 40+ years working with thought leaders and corporate visionaries spanning the industries of legal tech, quantum AI, media, and healthcare provides the foundation for her work uniting client's professional goals with their personal passions. Patty's uniquely holistic approach uncovers strengths and builds a roadmap for achieving their unrealized dreams. In her debut book, "Practicing the Art of Becoming," Patty shares personal insights that inspired and ignited her journey of becoming. A longtime resident of Menlo Park, California, Patty now enjoys splitting her time between the East and West coasts. Patty is a serene force of nature—equal parts wise sage, intuitive strategist, and spiritual guide. Whether she's advising a CEO through conscious leadership or helping someone rediscover their worth after a major life pivot, Patty has a way of seeing straight into the soul. She doesn't just inspire. She activates. She reflects your truest self back to you—and helps you believe in what's possible. Over decades of deep inner work, professional leadership, and spiritual devotion, Patty has built a life rooted in service, transformation, and truth. Her personal story is one of resilience and trust in divine timing. She is a master at asking the right question at the right time—and then holding the space for you to find the answer.

Lee Ann Heitzel was our guest for episode #108 which aired in February 2025. During that discussion her focus was on her MetaArt which decorated the doors behind her and a special door at Lily Dale, New York. In this episode she focuses on her work as a death doula. At an early age, Lee Ann could assist those crossing over, creating a safe and loving space for the death experience to unfold. She fostered this natural esoteric ability for decades, working from the 'side of spirit' to support both loved ones and strangers who would ask for assistance. Years of this work revealed to her how to access higher dimensions of awareness, which she organically integrated into her branding and marketing work and channeled frequency MetaArt paintings. Lee Ann is a grandmother of four, mother of three, and a passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan. When not traveling and sharing her work, she is nestled in her art studio in the hills of Western Pennsylvania. 

Dena DeLuco is a spiritual teacher, speaker, and creator of the Activate Your LightBody program, a unique offering that helps people clear energetic blocks, raise their vibration, and live from a place of clarity and purpose. With a background in NLP / Life Coaching and hypnotherapy, she blends science-based tools with spiritual insight to guide clients through powerful transformation. Dena is passionate about helping people remember who they really are and align with their highest potential in practical, everyday ways. She loves guiding people to clear the static, raise their vibe, and discover just how magical and aligned life can feel.

Our second guest pastor to challenge the tenets of the Christian Nationalist movement (see Rev. Janet Edwards, episode 142) Marian provides the keys to bridge-building that gives us hope for compassionate communication. Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds-Allen is a pastor, peacebuilder, and bridge-builder whose life has been shaped by a profound spiritual journey—one that began in traditional ministry and led through a personal awakening to her own LGBTQ+ identity. Today, she serves as Executive Director of Parity, a New York City–based nonprofit that works internationally to heal divides between faith and identity, and Research and Teaching Associate to the Neurospirituality Lab at Harvard Medical School, where she explores human-centered, ethical uses of AI and technology, religious liberty, and values-based collaboration. Marian's path has been anything but straight. Early in her Evangelical ministry, she encountered openly LGBTQ+ chaplains for the first time—an experience that challenged her assumptions, deepened her faith, and ultimately revealed her own identity. This turning point set her on a course of bridge-building, from founding an LGBTQ+-affirming church in Salt Lake City to leading national programs for youth and families. Along the way, she discovered the power of what she calls "grace space"—holding open, respectful conversations about faith and identity, even in the most polarized environments. Her work has been recognized with honors including Person of the Year by Q Salt Lake for visionary leadership and the Petra Fellowship for her ministry with homeless youth. Whether she's speaking, writing, or walking alongside those in crisis, Marian invites others to embrace their own "fearfully and wonderfully made" selves, to see God in those who are different, and to live as human bridges of compassion, courage, and hope. Outside her work, she's a passionate skier, outdoor adventurer, devoted spouse, and parent, always curious about what the next chapter of her spiritual journey will reveal.

Helen Ye Plehn is the founder of Helen Creates Beauty and the author of the Aura Color Wheel by Hay House Publishing: a system to identify your soul's purpose through your Soul Aura Color. She is an angel channeler, intuitive painter, and spiritual teacher. Her signature courses, Radiant Aura Activation and Embody Your Light, based on the Aura Color Wheel system, have named her a Visionary Educator on MSN.com. She is trained in many spiritual wisdom practices; Her students and clients call her the spiritual jack-of-all-trades. She is a certified crystal healer, third-generation Feng Shui master, Yoga and meditation teacher, Ayurveda practitioner, Vedic astrologer, Theta healer, and passionate Flamenco dancer. She has extensive knowledge of Western and Vedic Astrology, Enneagram, Numerology, Feng Shui Birth Element and Kua Number, Human Design, and Gene Keys. Her mission is to help one million souls find and live their souls' purposes with joy and fulfillment.

Emily Rodavich is a retired teacher, author, inventor, and the founder of The Mystical Interludes Discussion Group. While in elementary school, she was traumatized by the death of a neighbor. That event left her with a paralyzing fear of death until age 18, when a Near-Death Experience changed her life. In those days a person could lose all credibility by talking about any personal mystical event, so she was advised to never talk about it. But her mystical experiences didn't end there. Everything from synchronicities to an out-of-body visit to a past life have surprised her up to this day.  She suppressed her NDE and all those experiences until about 20 years after her retirement when she began talking and writing about them. This led to many spiritual discoveries and her conviction that we are more than we think we are. Her books are her memoir, Mystical Interludes: An Ordinary Person's Extraordinary Experiences and  Mystical Interludes II: A Collection of Ordinary People's Mystical Experiences.

Are neurodivergent children here to help us navigate the chaos of current world situations? Depth psychologist Dr. Nicole Dolan delves into this question and more as she talks about the importance of conscious parenting, her Sacred Path Therapy practice, and her podcast, Sacred Conversations, which she co-hosts. As a parent of two neurodivergent children, she speaks from first-hand knowledge about the challenges and opportunities of motherhood. She established Sacred Path Therapy as a non-profit to provide affordable holistic, professional, effective couneling for individuals, families and communities. The counselors at Sacred Path believe that as we gain clarity about our soul's purpose and intentions, we become curious about how it is that we can best deliver our gifts to the world.

Lessons to be learned from our perceptions of ugly. Introspection at its best. Peculiar Medinus was a foreign correspondent and newspaper columnist from Nigeria when she moved to London to become a columnist there. She has written multiple books that examine our ability to put faith into action and make a difference in the world. Give a listen.

Rev. Dr. Janet Edwards is a Presbyterian minister in Pittsburgh, PA for 48 years, who worships at the Community of Reconciliation. She presently serves on the board of Auburn Theological Seminary and is the Moderator of the Anti-Racism Transformation Team of Pittsburgh Presbytery. She is a former Board Member of More Light Presbyterians, a national organization working toward full inclusion of LGBTQIA people within the Presbyterian Church (USA). In 2008 Rev. Edwards was tried and unanimously acquitted by a church court of charges for violating Scripture and the Constitution of the PCUSA by presiding at the wedding of two women. In mid-life she came out as bisexual in her sexual orientation and identity.  In 1995, she received a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Duquesne University in Formative Spirituality. Her dissertation was on Three Dynamics in the Formation of Motherly Love. She has two grown sons and three young grandchildren.

Scarlet Fannin is a vibrant soul — a spirit of life, an emissary, and what she likes to call a "mother tree." She's also a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep focus on psychedelics. Born in Prince George's County, Maryland, and raised mostly in Virginia, she proudly calls herself a Virginia girl, though she now calls Shepherdstown, West Virginia home. In January 2021, Scarlet opened her private practice, Pathway to Mental Health, where she specializes in ketamine therapy. Passionate about healing and growth, she's continued to dive deep into the world of psychedelics to support those who are ready to help themselves. I can personally attest to the value of her work, since I participate in an exploratory session with her. Outside of her professional world, Scarlet has a wide range of personal interests — she loves to sing, hold sound ceremonies, spend time in the garden, and raise chickens. She shares life with her husband, Geoff Coleman, who's also involved in psychedelic study. At home, they're kept company by their two dogs — Tuco Sugarplum and Blondie Spice Girl — and their two cats, Pepé Le Pew and Taco.

Swami Revatikaanta is a spiritual educator and one of the most senior monks in Bhakti Marga, the international spiritual movement founded by his guru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda.  With nearly two decades of discipleship and deep study of sacred texts, he has cultivated a profound understanding of Vedic philosophy and human psychology. Inspired by his master, he has taught thousands across the globe, offering clear, insightful, and often humorous guidance to those walking the spiritual path. Swami is known for his direct communication style and a unique ability to draw out relevant wisdom for any situation.  His latest project, the Thinking Bhakti podcast, delves into spiritual topics through the lens of Bhakti while bridging traditional yogic teachings—like those found in the Bhagavad Gita—with the needs of today's spiritual seekers. He also offers courses on Yogic Philosophy and the Gita, helping to make timeless teachings accessible and meaningful to contemporary practitioners.

Jenny McFadden is a 3-time best-selling author, her most recent being The Game of Intuition and How to Play It. With a career of more than 30 years dedicated to whole-person health, she blends quantum healing, energy medicine, psychology, creativity and Qigong into a uniquely powerful approach.  She helps heart-led people develop deep trust in their intuition, use it to decode the messages hidden within their symptoms and receive practical steps to restore wellbeing, vitality and happiness. Through creative intuition games, she invites people to move into a space of curiosity and play and discover how easy it is to receive clear and accurate intuitive guidance. Jenny has seen extraordinary shifts happen in an instant when we work at the quantum level - and the more we listen within, the more we remember who we truly are: limitless and powerful beings, far more than just a physical body. I have experienced her abilities first-hand and can attest to the amount of clarity and healing she can offer anyone who takes the time to work with her.

Natalie Glebova is a best-selling author, inner beauty coach, and a former Miss Universe. Having spent many years in the often judgmental and materialistic entertainment industry, she began to seek out the true meaning of beauty and success, which she quickly realized couldn't be achieved through physical appearance and superficial gains. Through her own transformational spiritual journey to attain self-love and deeper self-awareness, Natalie started a coaching practice that focuses on a holistic approach to personal development to help her clients become winners in both life and love.  As a single working mother, Natalie is no stranger to challenging life transitions. That is why her mission is to help people create exceptional relationships in all areas of life by building one's own solid "Temple of Love" within first. Her compassionate teaching style enhanced by her extensive expertise in neurolinguistics methods and healing modalities of the East, gives her the unique ability to combine ancient spiritual practices with modern-day understanding of the intricate workings of the mind. And, it is through her latest book, Temple of Love - A Pilgrimage to the Heart, that she takes readers on a spiritual and mystical journey like none other. Written as a self-identified empath at heart, Temple of Love is a powerful parable that takes readers on an exhilarating quest that enables them to look inwards and rediscover their faith in unseen powers. 

Ann Andrews assists clients who are seeking to create positive changes in their lives. No matter where you are on your journey, whether just beginning or seeking deeper expansion, Ann provides the guidance and support you need to grow with confidence. She offers a unique blend of practical expertise and channeled wisdom to help clients unlock their true potential.  Ann's rare combination of executive-level leadership and deep spiritual practice sets her apart in the energy healing space. With an accomplished career in business leadership and federal service—where she worked in sales strategy, negotiations, and public advocacy—she has cultivated a profound understanding of human potential. This expertise, merged with years of energy therapy study and practice, allows her to bring a grounded yet expansive perspective to guiding individuals across the globe toward clarity and transformation.  Through Akashic Records sessions, GLEAM Personal Development Workshops, speaking engagements, and tutoring, Ann empowers clients to strengthen their intuition, align with higher wisdom, and step into greater self-awareness. Her offerings, including courses such as Akashic Records channeling, intuitive development, body insight scanning, and soul linking, center around leading from your high heart—the sacred space of wisdom within each of us. To connect with Ann, reach her directly at [email protected].

Kofi Douhadji is an accomplished author, consultant, and public speaker dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations in setting and achieving their goals. As the founder of Flying Wings, he also assists independent authors in transforming their compelling stories into published works that inspire action. Kofi's writing is characterized by its blend of personal experiences with universal themes of growth, resilience, and interconnectedness. His debut memoir, Unbroken Optimist, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Togo to becoming a celebrated American entrepreneur and thought leader. He further explores these themes in his subsequent books, Tiny Sparks and Roots and Fruits. With a dynamic presence as a public speaker, Kofi delivers powerful messages on leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling. His unique perspective is shaped by his diverse background as a U.S. Air Force officer, serial entrepreneur, and executive coaching. He draws from these rich life lessons to inspire audiences to pursue their aspirations and take concrete steps towards their objectives. Beyond his professional endeavors, Kofi is committed to helping others discover and embrace their unique potential. Whether through his consulting work, his insightful books, or his engaging speeches, Kofi is passionate about unlocking the transformative power of a clear vision and strategic action. His philosophy is simple yet profound: define your aspirations, cultivate your capabilities, and share your successes with the world.

Carol Palmer is an evidential medium and her  goal is to provide her sitter with "evidence" that she could not possibly know, that proves that their deceased loved ones are still with them.  She follows the English tradition in that her practice is limited to serving in the Spiritualist Church.  They believe that mediumship is proof that God loves you - because it is how He shows you that you have not lost the people you think you lost when they crossed over.  She does not do paid readings - so she has no website and no social media presence to speak of.  She does, however, do daily practice readings online with other mediums from around the world who also serve only the Church.  Sometimes they will invite guests who are not mediums to join them, and do readings for them.  On Saturdays, they broadcast live on YouTube.  She was not "always a medium".  Gaia refers to it as being "woken up" - and it didn't happen to her until she was 58 years old when she stayed overnight in Lily Dale. She was woken up at 3:00 in the morning by a spirit who was sitting on the edge of her bed playing a guitar.  That was my first experience with seeing Spirit.  Thankfully she was directed to the Spiritualist Church, where the members gave her an attitude adjustment by congratulating her on her good fortune instead of pitying me for my traumatizing experience.   She has done over 3,000 readings since then.  The reading that changed her profoundly was where a spirit asked her to tell his surviving girlfriend what happened to him when he crossed over - and she received astonishing confirmation from the other side that there is definitely accountability in the afterlife for one's actions on earth. She is also a Death Cafe hostess.   The Death Cafe is a world-wide organization that promotes conversation about death.  She schedules "events", frequently in libraries, where participants can come in and talk about the taboo subject of death.  No two events are the same because the mix of people is always different.  She assisted at one recently that included a woman who had died and had been brought back to life, a woman who was facing death due to a terminal illness, a man who had just placed his mother in hospice, and a woman who feared death because she was an atheist.  It is interesting to see how well people's spiritual beliefs prepare them for the inevitability of death - not only their own, but their loved ones as well.

Rotary District Governor Felicia Mycyk is the first woman of color to hold that position for District 7305. She has worked with individuals, teams, and corporate clients in their pursuit of success. Utilizing both traditional and non-traditional strategies, she excels at bringing chaos to order. Whether you're in need of personal motivation, coaching, leadership consulting, workshop facilitation, or an inspiring keynote address, she will help you amplify the leader within™ ​.  Felicia has been awarded the "Be The Change" award by the Pennsylvania Governor's Conference for Women. She has also been honored as a Beaver County "Star," recognized as a female coach at the Black History Achievement Award Banquet, and selected as one of 40 under 40 Rotary Legacy Zone Young Professionals. She has also received the "Heart of a Lion" award by Lions Club International for her commitment to community service.  Recently, she was honored by Pittsburgh Magazine with a Women & Business Award​. Felicia's tried and true approach to leadership development has also garnered incredible success in revitalizing struggling communities. In 2013, she founded Ambridge Connection; a community development collective promoting civic engagement and investment in her local community. In 2019, Ambridge Connection became part of the Pittsburgh Media Partnership, a collection of local news organizations from across the river valley and greater Pittsburgh region. With support from volunteers and the wider community, Ambridge Connection continues to be an invaluable resource and catalyst in revitalizing the community of Ambridge, PA.   Felicia is also a certified speed and agility coach; uniquely qualified to help athletes get faster and more explosive in their sport. She's played semi-professional football in the National Women's Football Association as a starting cornerback, coached competition cheerleading, varsity track, various football camps, as well as high school and youth football teams. Currently, she is the Track and Field Head Coach and Head Coach for High School Girls Flag Football Coach for the Ambridge School District. ​ ​ She has been a Girl Scout board member and troop leader and has served on various committees and boards of directors throughout the region. Felicia served Rotary District 7305 for over a decade in various roles including Assistant Governor and  Public Relations Chair.  She was  elected two consecutive terms as President for the Ambridge Rotary Club.   Recently, Felicia was selected as District Governor for the  2025-2026 Rotary year. Currently, she is serving as a Assistant Rotary Public Image Chair for Rotary International Zone 33 providing guidance and resources on effective public relations for multiple districts.   As a mother of four, she has learned that balancing her energy is key to owning and enjoying her life. As a certified life coach, she strives to be a lighthouse in all she does, illuminating a clear path forward and empowering others to advance towards their next level of success. Having faced significant internal and external struggles, Felicia draws on those experiences to inspire others to persevere through their own challenges and on their journey to success  

Teri Gilmore describes herself as a dedicated Social Entrepreneur; driven by a progressive outlook concerning leadership, organizational community & program development. She is fervent when constructing collaborative relationships to support children, families and community through sustainable programming. Her passion was fostering the development of the whole child as an individual while sustaining the child within healthy familial, communal, and societal contexts collectively. After 40 years she has retired. Since 1984 Teri has liberally committed herself to civic engagement (Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society & Sigma Alpha Lambda National Leadership & Honors Organization, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund "The Wall That Heals" volunteer August 2018), and eventually serving on the boards of two organizations (Lions International Mon River Fleet, Spreading The Word Children's Ministry). Her expert knowledge of Child Development and evidence-based practices has allowed her to provide consultative services on the Local, County, State, and Federal tiers; including DHS/Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) Think Tank Revision of Keystone Stars CQI. Teri has developed programs addressing real life tribulations of vulnerable children; all of which were presented at various conferences. Most noted at 2011 Let's Move Pittsburgh Regional Symposium; the Public Health Campaign led by First Lady Michelle Obama.  While internationally referred to as "Dr. Gilmore", Ms. Gilmore's work has reached as far as Hiroshima, Japan/2013 and Copenhagen, Denmark/2015 at the 9th & 11th International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability. Ms. Gilmore received an invitation to present at the University of Oxford's International Round Table Symposiums; March 2019 at Harris Manchester College in Oxford England.  Ms. Gilmore holds an AS in Pedology, Academic Studies, and a Certificate in Black, Minority and Ethnic Studies from CCAC, a Certificate in Early Literacy and a Certificate in Building Bridges from Beginning with Books, a BS in Child Development and Family Relations from IUP, and hopes to complete a MS at the University of Pittsburgh School of Education, with a Psychology in Education concentration; specializing in the area of Applied Developmental Psychology.  During March 2012 Teri was licensed to preach. On January 15, 2019 Minister Gilmore provided the Benediction for the Swearing-In of our previous Lieutenant Governor John K. Fetterman!

Karen Litzinger is a Certified Career Counselor, the highest counseling credential of the National Career Development Association. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Counselor with over 25 years of experience in the career coaching profession. Her book, Help Wanted: An A to Z Guide to Cope with the Ups and Downs of the Job Search provides the reader with a job search support team. It is crafted to help a person keep or rediscover a positive perspective. It provides: Strategies to cope with challenges like anxiety, confidence, procrastination, and rejection Topics to inspire, including gratitude, hope, and resilience Motivational quotes and affirmations that serve as daily reminders of your strength Here spiritual journey includes a 12-week meditation course with Craig Hamilton, Transcendental Meditation, A Course In Miracles, Matthew Fox, Joel Osteen, Louise Hay, Esther Hicks, the Omega Institute and presentations for Unity Church and the Unitarian Church. She is a sought-after speaker having attained professional membership status in the National Speakers Association and served as president of the Pittsburgh Chapter. Her book has won recognition from TAZ the Authors' Zone, National Indie Excellence Awards, and Best Book Awards.