In this series, we are highlighting the voices of youth and giving them a forum to talk about what is on their minds. 18 year old Zoey Bekkela joins us to discuss how missing her senior of high school changed everything...in a good way! She reveals the insights and wisdom this year taught her about self care, mental health, checking on friends, social justice and politics. While the negative impact of the pandemic on youth has been a focus in the media; Zoey provides a different perspective. Her positivity is a breath of fresh air and something we all need to hear.

Which Way Podcast

Listen Up Adults! - We’ve got something to say! (A story about missing my senior year)

In this series, we are highlighting the voices of youth and giving them a forum to talk about what is on their minds. Ten year old ‘Matt’ joins us, along with his mom, to talk about his decision to live in this world in the way he has always felt...male. His words are so simple, yet so poignant, “Just BE who you are.” He goes on to remind us that we would all “just be happier” if we could accept each other.

Listen Up Adults! - We’ve got something to say! (A story about my transition to the gender I was supposed to be)

In this series, we are highlighting the voices of youth and giving them a forum to talk about what is on their minds. ‘Holly’ joins us for this podcast and discusses what life has been like growing up with a sibling who struggles with mental health issues. She artfully paints a picture of the pain, worry and insight she has gained during the journey with her brother. Holly reminds us all that love is big and messy!

Listen Up Adults! - We’ve got something to say! (A story about my mentally ill brother)

Today’s podcast tackles the topic of isolation (an issue we know all too well as of late) and how it can boar it’s way into our psyche. Prolonged loneliness and lack of connection can impact our thoughts and break down our beliefs. It can then morph into something we become habituated to. In this talk, we feature our favorite author, Tony Garcia, who shares two poignant writings as a springboard for our conversation. Tony has written three books, available on Amazon: Wanna Know a Truth? A Simple Man’s Search for the Truths in His LifeWhispers From My Heart Secrets, Truths & Whispers: Lessons from a Good, Hard LifeHe can be found at: https://bublish.com/author/tonygarcia, http://www.facebook.com/CoachGForce

Isolation, Separation and Loneliness...Oh My!

In part II of our suicide series, Jann discusses the two suicide attempts that left her and Shari reeling for answers. While emotionally difficult for both as they re-lived the emotions they experienced; they felt the need to share. Jann highlights the fact that while suicide is a choice, it doesn’t need to be the final choice if we can help others find a glimmer of hope through connection. Despair, pain and guilt are dissected in this vulnerable discussion as both mother and daughter speak from two very different perspectives. Shari and Jann travel the country speaking on trauma and resiliency. More about them and their book, Which Way? can be found at www.traumaspeakers.com

Understanding Suicide - Shari and Jann

Given that the world has seen a drastic jump in suicides since the start of the pandemic, suicide expert Paula Fontenelle candidly talks about her personal experience with losing a loved one to suicide. Referencing her book, Understand Suicide: Living with loss. Paths to prevention, Paula discusses the myths associated with suicidality, highlights signs to look for, and provides helpful tips on how to address this topic with loved ones. “Understanding Suicide” is the result of Fontenelle’s journey of self-discovery. Her book and podcast help us understand the complex nature of suicide, as well as its profound impact on those left behind. She can be found at: www.understandsuicide.com.

Understanding Suicide (Part I)

In this powerful podcast, we talk with Gerry Murphy, author of And You May Find Yourself: A Guided Practice To Never Fearing Death Again. Gerry’s near-death experience, where he felt as though he was “signing his life away”, forever changed the way he lives. Gerry encourages everyone to “practice” death, meaning that if we stop to truly think about our ending, we might find the urgency in changing the way we live. In doing this, he believes we are all given a second chance to create the life and legacy we want. This podcast is particularly relevant in today’s uncertain world and listening to Gerry’s accent is a bonus!Gerry is from Scotland but lives in New York and runs Pentalogy Marketing https://www.pentalogymarketing.com/ His book can be found on his website, at Barnes and Noble, and on amazon https://www.amazon.com/You-May-Find-Yourself-Practice/dp/1734837608

And You May Find Yourself: A Guided Practice To Never Fearing Death Again

You do NOT want to miss one of the most powerful interviews we have done! Medicating Normal is a documentary film that explores the untold story of what happens when profit-driven medicine intersects with human suffering. In this podcast, Director Lynn Cunningham discusses her hope that Medicating Normal will present one very important and predominantly untold story. Her mission is that, as a society, we can begin a meaningful, informed, nationwide discussion about what it means to be fully human and mentally well.Angela Peacock, MSW, former U.S. Army Sergeant, and subject of the film, Medicating Normal is a mental health advocate, a writer, and a YouTube creator who travels in her RV across the United States in an effort to improve the mental health care system and bring voice to patients who have been harmed by it.Medicating Normal focuses on the predicament of 5 individuals whose lives were profoundly impacted by the medication they were taking. This group – individuals facing trauma and stress were drugged needlessly and made sicker as a result. Understanding the harm that had befallen them – especially in the context of the misleading science and marketing behind these drugs – compelled Lynn, her Co-Director, Wendy and their team to make this groundbreaking film. For more information and community screenings of the film, go to medicatingnormal.com

Medicating Normal - The intersection between human suffering and profit-driven medicine

Join us for a riveting talk with Rhonda Madge, author of the book Hindsight: Seeing Clearly Through the Veil of Deception. In this podcast, Rhonda delves into the murder of her father at the vulnerable age of 17. Trying to cope with the death of such an important figure in her young life set in motion a downward chain of events. Rhonda describes living in “darkness for 20 years” where she started believing in “whispered lies”, never really dealing with the grief of her father’s death. She takes us through that journey and how she ended up on the other side.Rhonda is an author, speaker and blogger and can be found at: https://rhondamadge.com/. Her book is a must read!

“Hindsight” - Seeing Clearly Through the Veil of Deception

In today’s podcast, we interview Rachel, a foster mom who has opened her home to many children over the years. Rachel delivers a powerful example of selfless love as she talks about the rewards and challenges of being a foster parent. In a world where countless children need a loving home, Rachel lives by the philosophy that “they need to attach more than anything I need”. She expertly describes the keys to successful foster parenting and emphasizes that the children she has cared for taught her far more than she ever taught them. Rachel is a Social Worker and is foster mom to a 8 month old, 13 year old and 18 year old. She relishes time with what she refers to as her “sweet little family”.

“I Will Love You For However Long…”

Today we welcome back, guest Amy Newmark! As Editor-In-Chief and Publisher of Chicken Soup for the Soul, she introduces her two latest additions to the Chicken Soup collection, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Teens and Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Preteens. Amy gives listeners a glimpse into some of the inspirational stories in these two amazing books that are geared toward topics teens and preteens are struggling with today. Every young person needs these in their stockings this year!!Amy is credited with revitalizing the Chicken Soup for the Soul brand, which has been a publishing industry phenomenon since the first book came out in 1993. By compiling inspirational and aspirational true stories curated from ordinary people who have had extraordinary experiences, Amy has kept the twenty-seven-year-old Chicken Soup for the Soul brand fresh and relevant. Follow Amy on Twitter @amynewmark and look for books and more at: www.chickensoup.com

Amy Newmark - *New Book Alert* Chicken Soup for the Soul - Think Positive for Preteens and Think Positive for Teens

Author of One Foot in Heaven, Sheila Preston Fitzgerald joins us for this inspiring conversation. In this podcast, Sheila talks about the fateful night when a tragic motorcycle accident changed the course of her life forever. What began as a near death experience, and grueling medical journey, turned into a hope-filled story of grit, determination and soul searching. Listeners will fall in love with Sheila’s attitude and are left wanting to know more about the miraculous events that brought her face to face with God. At a time when we all need a little inspiration, Sheila’s jaw dropping story is balm to the soul. When she’s not speaking about her journey or writing; Sheila enjoys life to the fullest with her “tribe” of friends and family. Sheila resides in the beautiful, rolling hills just south of Nashville, Tennessee. She can be found at: www.OneFootInHeavenOnline.com and her book is available on Amazon.

One Foot In Heaven - The miraculous true story of Sheila Preston Fitzgerald

In this podcast, Sheila Preston Fitzgerald finds the courage to discuss the very recent passing of her beloved brother who became a quadriplegic in a diving accident at the young age of 19. Jake Preston was a gentle giant who suffered unimaginable obstacles, only to move past his own pain and develop a life that touched and healed others. After more than three decades as a quadriplegic, Jake passed at the age of 49. Despite all the odds against him, Jake lived a very full life. He married the love of his life, completed his doctoral education, became a sought after professor, enjoyed hunting, and sharpened his heart and mind into his greatest tools. Jake’s life and legacy is one of gentleness and faith in a God who orchestrated everything!

My Brother...My Hero - How one man’s life as a quadriplegic inspired others

As a police officer and black woman, Corporal Alisha Zellner speaks candidly about what it feels like to live in two worlds. During a time in our history when outspoken advocates for change are rising up and taking to the streets, Alisha took her emotions about racial tension and demand for change to the streets...literally. Logging 564 miles on her bike, Alisha initially set out on her own but quickly gained a group of followers who wanted to make a statement in a way that promoted mental AND physical health. Alisha chronicled her journey, while challenging followers to think beyond themselves and look back at what history has taught us. This podcast is incredibly inspiring, due in large part, to Alisha’s positive outlook. Her message of love and acceptance is one everyone needs to hear! Alisha’s story has been picked up by magazines and radio stations across the nation. She is pursuing her Masters in Social Work, loves biking on the Colorado trails and is using her platform to create positive and lasting change. She can be found at: https://instabio.cc/Bike4BlackLives

Blurred Lines - Words of hope from Black Lives Matter advocate AND police officer, Alisha Zellner

In this latest podcast, we feature a local author whose touching work is gaining momentum and making a significant difference in others. As an educator, marathon runner and author, Tony Garcia not only shares his work but highlights the importance of words in a world that desperately needs hope right now. Beginning with journal entries chronicling his first Boston Marathon run; Tony has evolved into a sought after writer, with a large following. His gift?.. an ability to turn words into powerful messages about difficult-to-express emotions, how we treat others and how we can honor ourselves. At times allowing an outlet for his own pain, Tony’s writings have inspired, challenged and validated many who are looking for a way to make sense of their world. Tony has written three books, available on Amazon: Wanna Know a Truth? A Simple Man’s Search for the Truths in His LifeWhispers From My Heart Secrets, Truths & Whispers: Lessons from a Good, Hard LifeHe can be found at: https://bublish.com/author/tonygarciahttp://www.facebook.com/CoachGForce

Say It...but Say It With Kindness

Mother and daughter tell parallel stories about trauma and its impact on the generations that follow. Jann Simmons’ story is a heart wrenching account of an orphaned child who suffered brutality at the hands of her mother, as well as many others. As an adult, Jann’s mind was closed to the horrors of her abuse, betrayal and abandonment until the day they all came flooding back to her conscious mind. That awareness began a 40-year transformation from a passive victim to resilient warrior. As a young teen, Shari struggled to make sense of her mother’s pain, but as a career mental-health therapist, she began to understand her mother’s journey and learn how trauma affects the brain. She offers strategies in this book for those suffering from past or present trauma or for those who love someone who is suffering. Both women tell their stories and drive home the fact that the choices we make can lead to self-hatred and resentment or to a life of courage, healing and beauty. An unforgettable story of love and transformation that will resonate with mothers, daughters, trauma survivors, those who love them and those who’ve made a career out of helping them heal.

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Which Way Podcast

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