The Lafaya Way Podcast

Some stories sound too unbelievable to be real.Imagine this: you’re a respected immigration lawyer… living the life you worked incredibly hard to build. Then one day, at LAX airport, a dozen armed federal agents arrest you for a crime you didn’t commit.That’s exactly what happened to Kelly Giles.What followed wasn’t just a legal battle—it was a journey through prison, trauma, identity, and ultimately deep healing. Through poetry, storytelling, and raw honesty, Kelly began unraveling a lifetime of buried pain—from adoption and abandonment to betrayal and injustice.And somewhere along the way, something powerful happened.The very experiences that could have broken him became the foundation for helping others heal.In this conversation, we explore how Kelly learned to play the hand life dealt him—even when the cards looked impossible. From federal prison to poetry workshops, foster youth advocacy, and a memoir now being adapted for film, Kelly’s story reminds us that even our darkest chapters can lead to unexpected purpose. Key Takeaways Pain can become purpose.Kelly began writing poetry simply to survive emotionally. What started as “therapy on paper” eventually became published work that now helps others process their own trauma. The stories we tell ourselves shape our lives.For years, Kelly operated from unconscious survival identities formed in childhood. Through reflection and writing, he began to understand—and rewrite—those narratives. Sometimes the breaking point becomes the turning point.His arrest and prison sentence forced Kelly to confront buried trauma and reassess everything he believed about himself and the world. Healing rarely happens alone.Throughout his journey, Kelly encountered “angels”—people who supported him when he couldn’t support himself. From a lawyer who believed in his innocence to a therapist who walked with him for years. Your story may heal people you’ll never meet.Kelly once received a message from a doctor in Brazil who reads his poetry to patients facing serious illness. Proof that sharing your truth can ripple far beyond your expectations. Favourite Quote“Until you learn how to love and forgive yourself, you’re already in hell.”Find Out More & Connect with Kelly GilesKelly Giles is a former U.S. immigration attorney turned author, poet, and advocate. After a life-altering wrongful conviction connected to a colleague’s fraud case, Kelly spent 10 months in federal prison—an experience that became the heart of his powerful memoir Killing Justice.Through writing, poetry, and storytelling, Kelly explores themes of trauma, identity, justice, and healing. Today he volunteers with foster youth, participates in poetry and hip-hop workshops supporting creative expression, and continues to use his voice to raise awareness about mental health and the criminal justice system.His memoir Killing Justice is the first in a planned trilogy and is currently being adapted for film.Website http://www.kellygiles.comAuthor & Poetry Website http://www.kgstoryteller.com/Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyab303/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077323377913LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-giles-0260269/X: https://x.com/kellyab33BooksKilling Justicehttps://books2read.com/killingjusticePoetry Collectionhttps://www.lulu.com/spotlight/kellyab3/If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game.To download your free chapter today, visit: https://lafayawaypoker.com

There are some conversations that stay with you long after the microphones are turned off.This was one of them.When Andrea L. Wehlann sat down with me, she didn’t just share her résumé as a bestselling author, award-winning poet, Reiki Master, and yogi. She shared the parts of her story that most people would never dare to say out loud.Sexual assault. Multiple miscarriages. The loss of a child.And yet… what stood out most wasn’t the darkness.It was her unwavering peace.Andrea said something that stopped me in my tracks:“The only peace you’ll find at the top of the mountaintop is the peace you bring there.”And that right there? That’s The Lafaya Way.Because life isn’t about escaping the storm.It’s about mastering yourself in the storm.Andrea’s journey is a masterclass in alchemy — taking unimaginable pain and transmuting it into clarity, love, and purpose. In this episode, we talk about how to stop playing the victim of your story and start rewriting it.And trust me — you’re going to want to lean in for this one.Key TakewaysPain can become power — but only if you choose to use it.Your experiences aren’t happening to you. They can be happening for you.Your mind is not always telling the truth.Andrea teaches that the mind speaks loudest and first — but it’s not always aligned with love. You can retrain it.It’s either love or fear.Every decision. Every reaction. Every story you tell yourself. Love or fear.Feel your feelings — don’t suppress them.Sad? Be sad. Angry? Be angry. Emotions are information. They’re your compass, not your enemy.Writing is a powerful healing tool.When you put your pain on paper, you create space in your mind for compassion, clarity, and peace.You are not what happened to you.You are who you choose to become because of it.Forgiveness is freedom.When you understand we’re all interconnected, forgiveness becomes less about excusing behavior and more about reclaiming your peace.Favorite Quote“The mindset creates the story of ‘I’m a victim’ — but it’s the same mind that can create a love story out of anything that’s ever happened to you.”Mic. Drop.That’s the mental game right there.About AndreaAndrea L. Wehlann is a bestselling spiritual non-fiction author, award-winning poet, Reiki Master, and yogi based in Ontario, Canada. Through her books and transformational coaching, she helps women turn profound adversity into inner peace and purpose.Her books include:No Matter How Dark the Stain – A poetry collection for women navigating painDeeper Days – A daily practice for calm amidst chaosStillness in the Storm – A guided yoga and spiritual healing journalShe also offers a Transformational Coaching Call, a 60-minute deep dive designed to uncover what’s holding you back and create a personalized roadmap for healing. Special Offer for The Lafaya Way listeners:Get 25% off a Transformational Coaching Call using code PODCAST25 at checkout here https://ganga-moon-yoga.square.site/ -> Book Now Website: https://ganga-moon-yoga.square.site/ Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/andrealwehlann LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-l-wehlann-a6b03b187/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea_l_wehlann/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrea.l.wehlann/ X: https://x.com/Gangamoonyoga Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/andrea-lynn-wehlann-14668342646Life isn’t about the hand you’re dealt — it’s about how you play it. ...If you’re interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you’ll love my book Poker: A Woman’s Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com​

There are conversations that gently rearrange how you see the world.This was one of them.I sat down with Rev Ben Boland—chaplain, pastor, and author—and within minutes, we were naming something many of us feel but rarely say out loud: older people don’t stop being priceless just because the world starts treating them as invisible.Ben has spent over 15 years walking alongside older people and those living with dementia. And this isn’t theory for him—it’s deeply personal. From visiting his great-grandmother as a child… to later accompanying his own father through dementia… Ben brings wisdom that’s tender, practical, and quietly confronting.If you’ve ever wondered:What do I say when someone no longer remembers me?Does dementia erase faith, identity, or worth?How do we show love when conversation isn’t easy anymore?This episode will meet you right there.💡 Key takeaways from this episodePresence is love in action. You don’t need perfect words—showing up consistently matters more than saying the “right” thing.Dementia doesn’t erase personhood. Memory loss is not loss of value.Meet people at their strengths. Music, photos, touch, shared rituals, and sensory connection often speak louder than words.Faith isn’t fragile. Dementia may change how faith is expressed—but not its depth or meaning.Short, frequent connection beats rare, long visits. Familiar faces and voices ground people more than grand gestures.❤️ Favourite quote from the conversation“If we visit babies who don’t know our names, why would we stop visiting people with dementia?”Let that one sink in.📘 Find out more & connect with Rev Ben BolandRev Ben Boland MDiv, Grad Dip (Ageing and Pastoral), has served as an older persons chaplain for over 15 years. He is deeply passionate about equipping Christians—and communities more broadly—to share love, dignity, and presence with older people and those living with dementia.His latest book, Priceless People (published by Christian Focus Publications), weaves theological depth with practical pastoral guidance for anyone navigating the often-scary terrain of ageing, care, and cognitive decline.🔗 Connect with Ben on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rev-ben-boland-b4572a108/And if you want to go further, you can download a free chapter of my book Poker: A Woman’s Game and keep learning how to play your hand with courage and clarity:👉 https://lafayawaypoker.com

There are conversations that inform…and then there are conversations that slow you down, soften you, and quietly change how you move through your day.This episode was one of those.Jenny came into the studio carrying decades of creative wisdom, lived experience, and deep compassion — not just as an artist and coach, but as a caregiver, a boundary-setter-in-progress, and a woman who has learned (the hard way) that burnout isn’t a failure… it’s a message.If you’ve ever felt guilty for resting, torn between caring for others and caring for yourself, or quietly exhausted from always being the strong one — this conversation will feel like someone finally put words to what you’ve been living.This episode isn’t about fixing yourself.It’s about learning to stay in your lane, honor your capacity, and let stillness work for you — not against you. Key takeaways from this episode Burnout doesn’t come from caring — it comes from overextendingJenny explains how chronic over-giving quietly drains creative energy and trust in yourself.Boundaries are a practice, not a personality traitIf boundaries feel uncomfortable, you’re not doing them wrong — you’re building a muscle.Stillness is not “doing nothing”Rest, pauses, and quiet moments are active practices that restore clarity and creativity.Staying in your lane helps everyoneWhen you stop rescuing, others are invited to grow — and resentment loses its grip.Responding instead of reacting changes everythingSpace creates wisdom. Pausing before answering protects relationships and your nervous system.Favorite quote from the episode “If you’re free of obstacles, you’re probably not alive. The work isn’t avoiding challenges — it’s creating value from the hand you’ve been dealt.”Find out more and connect with our guestJenny Leigh Hodgins is a musician, composer, author, poet, podcaster ( Your Creative Chord), and creative empowerment coach with 39 years of SGI Buddhist practice.She supports creatives and caregivers who are navigating burnout, creative blocks, overwhelm, and boundary challenges — helping them reconnect to sustainable energy, creative flow, and inspired living.Jenny brings a rare blend of artistic depth, spiritual grounding, and real-life caregiving wisdom to her work — and this conversation is a beautiful reflection of that.Connect with Jenny: Website: https://www.YourCreativeChord.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YourCreativeChord Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourcreativechord LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-leigh-hodginsFree resources from Jenny: Burnout RESET Guide — practical, reflective tools to restore your energy https://www.YourCreativeChord.com/burnoutguidehttps://www.yourcreativechord.com/getinspiredhereLife isn’t about the hand you’re dealt — it’s about how you play it.If this episode spoke to you, take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need permission to slow down today.And if you want to go deeper into mastering the mental game of life, you’re invited to download a free chapter of my book Poker: A Woman’s Game and explore how strategy, boundaries, and intuition intersect.Let’s play to win — your way. 

Some conversations stay with you long after the recording stops.This was one of those.When I sat down with Dr. Ava Eagle Brown, I knew we’d talk about resilience. What I didn’t expect was how deeply her story would mirror something so many of us quietly carry: the tension between worry and trust… fear and faith… pressure and praise.Dr. Ava doesn’t share a polished, picture-perfect success story. She shares the real one. The kind shaped by loss, single motherhood, uncertainty, and moments where the only option left was to keep going — even without answers.What unfolded was a powerful “pain-to-power” conversation about trusting the process, catching ourselves before we spill our stress onto others, and learning how to play the hand we’re dealt with courage, compassion, and grace.This episode is a gentle reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out — you just have to stay in the game.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy worry doesn’t solve problems — it steals peaceHow praise and gratitude can become anchors during overwhelming momentsThe power of pausing before reacting — especially with the people we love mostWhat it really means to “play the hand you’re dealt” in lifeWhy reflecting on how far you’ve come can completely shift your perspectiveHow faith, storytelling, and service can turn adversity into impactFavourite Quote from the Episode“Sometimes we’re so busy worrying about how things will work out that we forget God already went ahead and made provision.”Find Out More & Connect with Dr. Ava Eagle BrownDr. Ava Eagle Brown is a multi-award-winning author, international speaker, and cultural changemaker. A proud Jamaican, she has transformed personal adversity into global impact through storytelling, publishing, and film.She is the author of the bestselling memoir The Mango Girl, founder of Book2Biz Publishing, and creator of the Black River Film Festival, elevating rural Jamaican voices onto international stages. Her work bridges faith, resilience, creativity, and community development — empowering others to rise, rebuild, and live out loud. Website: https://www.avaeaglebrown.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wwwavbrownorg/ Free Book Consultation (Lead Magnet):https://calendly.com/dravaeaglebrown/new-meetingIf you have a story inside you — or a book you want to turn into impact — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.And if you want to go even deeper into mastering the mental game of life, you’ll love my book Poker: A Woman’s Game. Download your free chapter here: https://lafayawaypoker.comUntil next time —Play the hand you’re dealt. Worry less. Praise more.     

Every now and then, someone walks into the room with a story so unexpected, so wildly improbable, that it stops you mid-breath.That’s what happened when I sat down with Dori Staehle.Imagine this: you survive a freak accident that nearly ends your life… doctors can't figure out what’s wrong… pain becomes your constant companion… and everything you’ve built suddenly slips out from under you.Most would fold their hand right there.But Dori?She reached up instead of giving up.And what she heard in that moment of surrender changed everything.“Use your drums.”Two weeks later—yes, two weeks—she was healed. And the path she took from that moment forward is nothing short of astonishing.From auditioning for a church band at 47 with no lessons and no drums at home, to teaching herself drum set at 59, to running her fourth business, to becoming the only certified drum therapist in North Carolina… Dori embodies the truth she now shares with the world:You’re never too old.It’s never too late.And you absolutely can rock what you’ve got.This conversation will make you rethink healing, rethink purpose, and maybe even rethink the sound of your own heartbeat.Key TakeawaysYour lowest point can become your turning point—if you’re willing to ask the right question: “Now what?”Drumming is more than rhythm—it’s science. It syncs the brain hemispheres, boosts focus, lowers stress, and ignites breakthroughs fast.Purpose often hides inside the things we loved as children. Dori was tapping rhythms long before she knew why they mattered.Labels don't define potential. Her work with ADHD and autism shows how rhythm can unlock confidence, communication, and calm.Healing doesn’t always come from where you expect it. Sometimes it comes from a beat, a prayer, a moment of surrender.You’re always one “next stage” away from a completely different life.Favourite Quote“When you get knocked down, you have a choice. You can give up… or you can reach up, rise up, and rock the next stage of your life.” — Dori StaehleFind Out More & Connect with Dori StaehleBioA freak accident in 2011 triggered a rare disease and pushed Dori Staehle into the darkest chapter of her life. When nothing worked—not therapy, not medicine, not time—she asked God for a way to heal herself and others. The answer was clear: use your drums.Within two weeks, she was healed.Now in her 50s and onto her fourth business, Dori runs Next Stage Drumming, where she blends drum therapy, mentoring, and mindset work to help people break through stress, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, trauma, and more. She’s a certified drum therapist, author of two uplifting books, and the founder of a powerful drum ministry.She’s living proof that purpose can hit you like a lightning bolt… or a drumbeat.Website: https://www.nextstagedrumming.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doristaehlembaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nextstagedrummingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextstagedoriYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NextStageDrummingFree Resource: 10 Easy Ways to Beat Stress — sign up on her website.As always ...If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game.Download your free chapter at https://lafayawaypoker.com

Some conversations stay with you long after the mic turns off.This was one of them.When Cindy sat down with me, she didn’t come with a polished, tied-up-with-a-bow story. She came with the kind that life hands you when you’re least prepared:A sudden loss, a house full of grief, two daughters quietly unraveling, and a mother doing everything she could to keep her family from slipping through her fingers.And then—dogs.Not as a cute hobby or an escape, but as unexpected teachers.What began as an innocent idea to soothe the pain turned into a journey of unlearning, rebuilding, and advocating—for her kids, for herself, and for the animals who showed up carrying their own stories.In this episode, Cindy invites us into that journey with honesty, humor, humility, and a kind of raw hope that feels like a hand on your back saying, “You can get through this too.”If you’ve ever lived through a season where everything fell apart faster than you could fix it—or if you’ve ever had an animal walk into your life at the exact right moment—you’ll feel deeply seen in this conversation.Key Takeaways• Healing rarely happens in straight linesCindy’s story reminds us that grief, growth, and family transitions are layered—and that healing often comes through unexpected messiness rather than perfect solutions.• Grief is not something to “patch”—it’s something to move throughHer daughters learned how to grieve by fostering pets… and by being given permission to feel deeply instead of rushing toward “fine.”• Parenting sometimes requires a complete rewriteCindy and her husband had to abandon the familiar “carrot and stick” model and step into something more aligned, more compassionate, and more creative.• Advocacy is an act of loveBoth daughters were eventually diagnosed with ADHD, and Cindy shares how learning to advocate for them—and with them—changed not just their lives, but their family as a whole.• Connection is the endgameNo matter the season, challenge, or diagnosis, Cindy held one vision at the center: a family that stays connected. And that intention shaped every decision along the way.My Favorite Quote“Learning and trying creates challenges, but we did this together.”A simple sentence… and an entire roadmap for how families survive hard things.About CindyCindy Ojczyk is an award-winning memoirist, blogger, and advocate for emotional resilience in both people and pets. Her work lives at the intersection where compassion rebuilds what life breaks.Her upcoming memoir, Mom Loves the Dogs More, explores her family’s journey through grief, ADHD diagnoses, and the healing power of fostering rescue animals.You can follow Cindy, read her beautifully honest writing, and preorder her book here:🌐 Website / Substack: https://cindyojczyk.substack.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindyocheck/Full bio included for listeners:Cindy O. is an award-winning memoirist, blogger, and advocate for emotional resilience in people and pets. Her journey began not with a plan, but with a family in crisis—two daughters facing mental health challenges, and a home filled with slammed doors, silence, and sorrow. Fostering rescue dogs began as a lifeline and became a classroom for transformation. Through her memoir Mom Loves the Dogs More and her Substack Like People, Like Pets, Cindy shares the raw, redemptive stories that emerged from those years. Her work lives in the space where compassion rebuilds what life breaks.____If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game.Download your free chapter today at https://lafayawaypoker.com.

When Audrey Gerber got her first period, it was chaos—painful, unpredictable, and isolating. Like so many young girls, she was handed a prescription for the pill and told it would “fix” things. It didn’t.Years later, struggling with depression, weight gain, and confusion about what was happening in her body, Audrey began to ask the question most of us are never encouraged to ask:What if my body isn’t broken? What if it’s trying to tell me something?That question led her on a journey that would change everything—not just for herself, but for countless women she now helps as an integrative health coach and herbalist. In this powerful conversation, Audrey and I talk about what happens when we stop silencing our symptoms and start listening to the wisdom of our hormones.This episode isn’t just for women—it’s for anyone who loves, supports, or raises them.The hidden connection between stress, hormones, and how we show up in lifeWhy your menstrual cycle is more than “that time of the month”How shame and silence keep women suffering unnecessarilyWhat happens when we stop seeing our bodies as broken and start working with themHow understanding your hormonal rhythm can change your physical and emotional health“I suffered for years for a resolution that took two months—just because I finally understood what my body needed.” — Audrey GerberAudrey Gerber is an integrative health coach and herbalist for women struggling with their menstrual cycle. She helps them understand their hormones and use holistic tools to regulate and reclaim their best period ever. Website: spotlessgirl.com Free Guide: 20 Tips to Reduce Your PMS Naturally LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/audrey-gerber-19636495 Instagram: @audreygerber_As always, if you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. Download your free chapter today at lafayawaypoker.comKey TakeawaysFavourite QuoteFind out more and connect with Audrey Gerber

Sometimes the most confusing parts of life start to make sense when you finally get the right lens.That’s what happened for Meredith Carder, ADHD coach, writer, and author of It All Makes Sense Now.When her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD, Meredith began to realize that the very challenges she’d struggled with her entire life — the “why can’t I just…” moments, the guilt, the overwhelm — weren’t character flaws. They were clues.In this heartfelt and deeply relatable conversation, we talk about the power of self-understanding, how to move from shame to self-trust, and why learning to work with your brain instead of against it might be the most freeing thing you ever do.Whether you’ve been diagnosed, suspect you might have ADHD, or simply want to better understand someone you love, this episode will help you see that what feels like a limitation can become your greatest source of creativity and compassion.You can’t accommodate what you don’t understand. Real change starts with self-awareness, not self-criticism.Working memory isn’t about willpower. Practical tools like “scratch pads,” visual cues, and narrating steps out loud can transform everyday chaos into calm.Grace is a game-changer. Learning to give yourself grace teaches others to do the same.Self-trust comes before strategies. You have to believe you can make it work before any system will stick.“You really can’t accommodate what you don’t understand. Once you know how your brain works, you can finally stop fighting it and start working with it.” — Meredith CarderAbout Meredith:Meredith Carder is an ADHD coach, creator, and writer with a B.S. in Psychology and an MBA. A true multi-passionate entrepreneur, she has spent two decades in employee development and small business leadership. She’s the founder of The Hummingbird Hive, a vibrant community for ADHD adults, and the author of It All Makes Sense Now, a compassionate guide that validates the ADHD experience while offering practical strategies for growth.Links: meredithcarder.com It All Makes Sense Now – available wherever books are sold meredithcarder.substack.com Instagram: @hummingbird_adhdIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game.🎁 Download your free chapter at lafayawaypoker.com

When Katelyn Mabry was ten years old, she sat in the car trying to make sense of three little letters that would shape her life: ADHD. She didn’t understand what it meant—and neither did her parents. For years, she wrestled with feelings of confusion, rejection, and the sense that something must be “wrong” with her.Fast forward to today, and Katelyn has turned that pain into purpose. As a mom of four (all diagnosed with ADHD), a life coach, special educator, author, and podcast host, she’s helping children and families everywhere see the beauty and brilliance in their ADHD brains.In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, we talk about what it really feels like to grow up misunderstood, how to replace shame with understanding, and the incredible power of reframing the way we see ourselves and our challenges.Key TakeawaysWhy “lazy” isn’t the word — and what ADHD brains actually need instead.How understanding rejection sensitivity can transform relationships and self-compassion.The four-step tool that changes everything: Name it. Claim it. Tame it. Reframe it.What happens when we bring our “monsters” into the light instead of hiding them.How Katelyn’s family embraces ADHD as a shared adventure in learning, love, and growth.Favorite Quote“When we’re transparent about things, that’s when transformation happens.” — Katelyn Mabry 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:52 Meet Katelyn Mabry: ADHD Life Coach03:32 Katelyn's Personal ADHD Journey06:12 Challenges and Misunderstandings in School12:21 Supportive Teachers and Strategies17:20 Parenting Children with ADHD18:26 Embracing Diagnoses and Understanding Our Brains19:34 Building Strengths While Battling Struggles21:03 Rejection Sensitivity and Emotional Awareness24:59 Transforming Pain into Power27:12 Final Thoughts and ResourcesFind out more and connect with Katelyn:Katelyn Mabry is an ADHD Life Coach and special educator with a master’s in Reading. She’s the author of Hi It’s Me! I Have ADHD and host of the children’s podcast Journey With Me Through ADHD: A Podcast for Kids. Based in Wisconsin, Katelyn is a mom of four, passionate about helping families understand and celebrate their unique brains.🌐 Website: www.katelynmabry.com🎧 Podcast: Journey With Me Through ADHD: A Podcast for Kids (available on all platforms)📸 Instagram: @journey_with_me_through_adhdIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman’s Game.👉 Download your free chapter at https://lafayawaypoker.com

Sometimes life hands you a storm so fierce you don’t know how you’ll stand—but Diane Woodford shows us that when you anchor yourself in love, peace can carry you through.In this conversation, Diane shares the incredible story of her husband’s near-death battle during COVID, the 80 long days in ICU, and how she drew on faith, peace, and community support to hold the line for love when everything around her screamed despair.From moving around the globe as “One Love Ambassadors” with her husband Charles, to learning the hard and holy work of forgiveness, Diane opens her heart with stories that remind us: the light never goes out, even in the darkest valley.Key TakeawaysLove is not just a feeling—it’s an action, a calling, and a way of life.Community is everything: it really does take a village to heal and keep going.Forgiveness isn’t a one-time event but a process that frees you to keep moving forward.When you pour out love, you also prepare yourself to receive love when you need it most.There is peace—and even joy—on the other side of trauma if you dare to walk through it.Favourite Quote“Always in your darkest moments, there will be light bearers. And that’s what we do—we carry the light. Even when it flickers, it never goes out.” – Diane Woodford00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:43 Meet Diane Woodford01:37 The One Love Ambassadors' Mission02:39 Spreading Love Around the World03:56 Recent Projects and Experiences07:33 Charles' Illness and the Birth of 'Aftercare'09:50 Navigating the Healthcare System16:07 The Power of Forgiveness18:16 Living What You Preach18:25 The Power of Forgiveness18:38 Support Systems and Faith18:57 Receiving and Giving19:25 Personal Reflections on Forgiveness22:30 The Miracle Man23:45 Creating a Healing Space24:25 The Journey of Writing a Book26:05 The Role of Anka Herrmann30:43 Global Healing Work31:47 Book Release and Meditation Gift34:50 Final Thoughts and GratitudeFind out more and connect with DianeDiane Woodford is a retired critical healthcare professional and educator, published author, speaker, philanthropist, co-host of Love Drops Podcast, and world traveler. With a deep commitment to serving humanity, Diane focuses on mentoring young women and raising the energy wherever she goes. Website: paths2transformation.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/diane-woodford-7708a435 Free Gift: After Care – Finding Peace Beyond TraumaIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

Sometimes life deals you the most unexpected hand. For Sasha, that hand showed up at 55 years old, in the middle of a networking event in New York City. A deck of cards, a casual introduction to poker—and suddenly, her entire world shifted.She went from writing for Wall Street to sneaking into underground cash games, eventually packing up her life and moving to Las Vegas at 63 to pursue poker professionally. Along the way, Sasha faced down self-doubt, age bias, and the subtle (and not-so-subtle) challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated game.What struck me most in our conversation wasn’t just her resilience, but her wisdom. Sasha doesn’t just play poker—she studies it like a language, documents it like a memoirist, and teaches it as a mental game coach. Her insights about “pain minimization,” awareness as a superpower, and learning to own her presence at the table are lessons that reach far beyond poker.This episode will remind you that it’s never too late to start something new, claim your seat at the table, and play with swagger—no matter who’s sitting across from you.Key TakeawaysWhy poker “hit Sasha’s brain like heroin” and how she followed that calling later in life.The gritty romance of New York’s underground poker scene—and what it taught her about courage.How imposter syndrome shows up differently for women, and why entitlement plays such a role.Sasha’s mental game strategies: awareness, meditation, breathwork, and “pain minimization.”The power of respecting your opponents without giving away your power.Favorite Quote:“My superpower is my awareness. I take it for granted, but it’s what allows me to stay grounded, minimize pain, and play the long game.” – SashaFind out more and connect with SashaA truly magical accident, poker beckoned to Sasha later in life. She cut her teeth on New York's rough-and-tumble underground cash scene, and moved to Vegas in 2020 to pursue a pro path. Her poker book, The Total Poker Manual, published by Weldon Owen, holds the beginner's hand and is visually singular. Today she plays, coaches, and writes about the game.🌐 Website: www.suttonstories.com🟦 Bluesky: @pokerforgirls.bsky.social👉 If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

When life keeps handing you closed doors, do you give up—or do you find a way to make a plan?In this episode, I sit down with the radiant Chiyedza Nyahuye, lovingly known as African AI Auntie. Her story will pull you in: after earning prestigious degrees in the U.S., she returned to Zimbabwe only to be told she was “too educated” and applied for 700 jobs without a single interview. What looked like failure became the foundation for her true calling—helping African students leapfrog traditional career struggles and thrive in the digital economy with AI skills and entrepreneurial courage.You’ll hear how Chiyedza’s resilience, creativity, and deep respect for people shaped her mission. From reviving her mother’s rental business to tripling her sister’s spa income in five months to creating opportunities for young people against all odds—her story is a masterclass in turning setbacks into stepping stones.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a student, or someone navigating life’s curveballs, this conversation is packed with wisdom, heart, and inspiration.Key TakeawaysNever giving up pays off: Every “failure” in Chiyedza’s journey became an opening for transformation.Relationships are the real currency: From jobs to opportunities, it’s people who open doors.Education needs a reset: Degrees without skills no longer guarantee jobs—AI and entrepreneurship are the future.Selflessness creates success: Serving others generously often becomes the key to your own growth.Know when to be the student and when to be the teacher: Recognizing when to seek help is just as powerful as sharing wisdom.Favorite Quote“Even with the cheerleaders we have around us, we need to also find ways to celebrate ourselves and thank ourselves for being who we are.” – Chiyedza NyahuyeFind out more and connect with ChiyedzaChiyedza Nyahuye (African AI Auntie) is on a mission to empower African students by equipping them with AI skills and tools to launch AI-powered businesses—while still in school. A daughter of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs, she blends global experience with a deep commitment to healing, empowerment, and treating every individual like royalty. She is a four-time international best-selling co-author, speaker, mentor, and change catalyst. Check out her new book: Global Degree, African Roots Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chiyedzanyahuye YouTube: African AI AuntieIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

When Alecia Tolver hung up her Army uniform after decades of service, she expected to simply swap it for a business suit and keep moving forward. But life had other plans. At the same time she was navigating the uncertainty of civilian life, she was growing her family—welcoming two babies, healing from loss, and redefining her purpose. In this conversation, Alecia shares how she turned what could have been overwhelming chaos into a season of clarity, faith, and intentional living. Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes letting go of one chapter is the only way to fully embrace the next.Key takeawaysLighten your load: Bringing “light” isn’t just about shining—it’s also about releasing burdens you were never meant to carry.Receive the help you prayed for: Support systems are only valuable if you allow yourself to lean on them.Clarity comes after release: You can’t fully step into the next season if you’re still holding onto the last one.You can’t be great at everything, all at once: Choosing your focus is an act of strength, not weakness.Perspective shapes the outcome: A “bad hand” can still win the game if you know how to play it.Favourite quote"I didn’t join the military to learn how to serve—I became a soldier because I was born to serve." — Alecia TolverFind out more and connect with Alecia TolverOnce defined by obstacles, Alecia is now driven by transformation. As a woman of faith, wife, mother, US Army Veteran, author, mentor, coach, and change practitioner, she’s faced challenges that have deepened her resilience and compassion. Her mission is to inspire others to move from feeling challenged to living changed—turning challenges into catalysts for growth.Connect with Alecia: LinkedInIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

When the Silence Breaks: Turning Trauma into Purpose with Lisa ZarconeShe was just a little girl when the world around her started to unravel. Abuse. Neglect. A mother lost in mental illness. For years, Lisa Zarcone carried the weight of unspoken truths - until she decided to speak.In this incredible conversation, Lisa opens up about the darkest parts of her childhood and how she not only survived them, but turned them into fuel for advocacy, healing, and hope. From writing her memoir The Unspoken Truth to becoming a national voice for survivors of child abuse, Lisa shows us what it really means to play a losing hand - and still come out winning.Whether you’ve walked through your own trauma or are holding space for someone who has, this episode will leave you inspired, empowered, and reminded that your voice matters.Key Takeaways:Why giving voice to pain can be the beginning of healing - not just for you, but for otherThe power of understanding the “why” behind generational abuse and mental illnesHow to transform victimhood into advocacyLisa’s journey from surviving to thriving - and using her platform to protect children and break cyclesThe importance of compassion, even for those who caused harm Favorite quote:"When you walk the path of the very people who traumatized you, it gives you a different view of the whole situation." — Lisa ZarconeFind out more and connect with Lisa Zarcone:Lisa is the Massachusetts National Ambassador for NAASCA (National Association of Adult Survivors of Child Abuse), a keynote speaker, author, mental health advocate, and survivor who uses her voice to uplift the voiceless. She’s also the author of two books:The Unspoken Truth: A MemoirThe Book of Joann (a powerful look at mental illness and generational trauma)Website: https://www.lisazarcone.netSocials: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | TikTokAnd don’t forget…If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com 

What if the very things you feared would break you… ended up healing you?That’s the story of Daniel Hall—software genius, foster care survivor, adoptive dad of six, and someone who plays a hand many would’ve folded. When Daniel said yes to fostering children with trauma similar to his own, he didn’t just become a parent—he began rewriting his own story.In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Daniel opens up about the raw realities and unexpected joys of parenting through trauma, the healing power of honest reflection, and how forgiveness and communication became the lifelines that saved not only his kids but himself.This one will move you, stretch your heart, and remind you what it means to show up for life, no matter the hand you’re dealt.You'll hearHow parenting children with trauma became Daniel’s mirror—and his medicineWhy saying "yes" to fostering was the ultimate leap of trust in his wife’s wisdomThe secret power of “What’s tomorrow? A new day.”How forgiveness and honest communication can shift even the most chaotic of momentsThe profound connection between healing others and healing ourselvesA favorite quote“Chaos is such an unforgiving paradox. But if you can wield it and learn from it, you have the opportunity to help others—and in doing so, you forgive yourself.”00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 Daniel's Background and Career02:36 Fostering Journey Begins03:51 Challenges and Rewards of Fostering05:51 Trust and Partnership in Parenting09:19 Communication and Forgiveness12:07 Honesty and Social Skills16:49 Dealing with Tough Moments18:44 Teaching Through Forgiveness and Communication19:42 Encouraging Kids to Pursue Their Passions20:19 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Balance21:44 The Power of Forgiveness and Communication24:10 Embracing a New Day25:54 Navigating Emotions and Finding Balance29:16 The Paradox of Chaos and Healing33:42 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationDaniel is a 5X bestselling nonfiction social media author, audio engineer, video editor, and proud #1 LinkedIn Platform Data Guru. He’s also a world-class AI song producer—and most importantly, a loving husband and adoptive dad of 7 who puts the HUMAN back in humanity.Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: Daniel B. HallHe’s generous with his wisdom, so feel free to reach out to pick his brain on video, audio production, book creation—or how to raise 6 kids and still smile about it.If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

When Christine Dziedzic was just 8 years old, quietly sitting in a cemetery office as her family fought over funeral arrangements, something life-changing happened: a stranger noticed her pain. He gave her crayons. He gave her dignity. He gave her a vision for her future.That moment shaped her into the powerhouse she is today.In this episode, Christine shares her unbelievable story: from a childhood spent in grief, to becoming a 36-year deathcare expert, to being literally run down by a client, and then rising up to build Bereavement AI, a revolutionary grief support tool changing how we experience death, comfort, and legacy.This conversation is raw, heartfelt, and radically hopeful.🎧 Key Takeaways:Why Christine left the traditional funeral industry behind - and how the pandemic pushed families to rethink griefHow Bereavement AI is giving police officers, teachers, and families the right words during the worst momentsThe emotional and environmental costs of embalming, burial, and pressure-filled funeralsWhy “miss you much” became more than a phrase - it became a movementHow Christine stays spiritually and emotionally centered, even through massive adversity💬 Favorite Quote:"The funeral industry has done sterile. People want something expressive now. They want to be seen."✨ Find out more and connect with Christine Dziedzic:Christine Dziedzic is the founder of Miss You Much, a grief-tech platform that combines Web3, virtual reality, and AI to support the bereavement journey. She is the creator of Bereavement AI, a support tool trained specifically in grief, and has served the funeral industry for over three decades.🔗 Website: missumuch.com🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christinedziedzicWant access to Bereavement AI? Visit her site or request the QR code for free premium access.And ...If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you’re dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman’s Game.🎁 Download your free chapter today at https://lafayawaypoker.com

It started with being held back in first grade.No one said she was stupid. No one had to. Sabrina told herself that - and carried that belief into adulthood.And yet today, she’s a professional speaker, a co-author of an international bestseller, and the proud creator of a powerful networking group for introverts.How? Through faith, fierce self-awareness, and a relentless commitment to practicing courage.In this episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow Speechless co-author Sabrina Schottenhamel to talk about what it really takes to overcome fear and find your voice, even when your nervous system is screaming “No!”Whether you’re introverted, anxious, or simply tired of playing small, Sabrina’s story will remind you that the hand you’re dealt doesn’t define you but how you play it absolutely does.Key Takeaways:The pivotal moment when Sabrina realized massage was more than just a job - it was her first step toward confidence.How Toastmasters helped her turn insecurity into impact (and led her to become Speaker of the Year).The physical signs of anxiety introverts often experience, and how to calm your nervous system through intentional breathwork and breaks.Why stepping outside (literally!) can be the most strategic move during a networking event.How faith and prayer now guide her through life’s challenges and decisions.Favorite Quote:“There is no saber-tooth tiger here. It just feels like it.”Find out more and connect with Sabrina:Bio: Sabrina Schottenhamel is an Introverted Leader and Professional Speaker dedicated to helping others build humble confidence while prioritizing health. Her journey began in 2013 with Woodridge Toastmasters, where she overcame her fear of public speaking and won the 2015 Best Speaker of the Year Award.Since then, Sabrina has delivered keynotes and workshops at colleges, universities, libraries, and professional organizations. She is a member of Engaging Speakers, a professional speaker network, and a co-author of Speechless: Giving the #Voiceless a Voice.Her writing has been featured in Skin Inc., DaySpa, Fender Bender, OfficePRO, and Sparkle & Rise eMagazine.🖥️ Website & Links:https://linktr.ee/Sabrinaschottenhamel👥 Networking for Introverts Monthly Call (Free to Join):Register here📱 Connect on Social:FacebookBe Touched Facebook PageLinkedInInstagram @sabrina.schottenhamelAnd ...If you're interested in learning more about playing the hand your dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com

When Alzheimer's Hits the Table: Betsy Wurzel on Love, Loss & Learning to Fight BackThere’s a moment in life when everything flips—when the hand you’ve been dealt feels impossibly hard. For Betsy Wurzel, that moment came when her husband, Matt, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at just 55. But instead of folding, Betsy chose to fight.In this deeply moving conversation, we talk about what it means to truly be a caregiver—not just the logistics and the exhaustion, but the emotional war zone of love, loss, and resilience. Betsy shares how she went from almost breaking down in a preschool classroom to creating a national movement and top-rated podcast that supports caregivers all over the world.You’ll laugh, cry, and feel deeply seen as we explore the power of acceptance, the necessity of self-care, and the unshakable strength that comes when you decide—no matter what—to kick Alzheimer’s ass.Key Takeaways:The unexpected grief of caregiving—and how to process it instead of stuffing it downThe truth about “being strong”—and why asking for help is the real superpowerHow Betsy found her voice through advocacy, Facebook videos, and faithSimple but powerful self-care strategies (including shadow breathing and bathtub visualization)The importance of having a purpose—especially when life feels like a losing handFavorite Quote:"You don't get over losing someone—but you move forward. I'm moving forward with Matt as my center. He will always be my inspiration." — Betsy WurzelFind out more and connect with Betsy:"I am Host of Chatting with Betsy on Passionate World Talk Radio Network, Creator and Founder of #KickAlzheimersAssMovement Group on Facebook.I worked as anLPN for many years,did retail work, and was a teacher 's aide in a preschool daycare.I am mom to my adult son, Joshua who has a cognitive disability so I am still a caregiver!I became an advocate for Josh to make sure his educational needs were met!I took care of my mom- in- law who had Alzheimer's Disease.My husband, Matt was diagnosed in May 2010 with Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease and died on Jan01,2020.Matt's journey changed my life in so many ways!I became an advocate, I found my voice and my gifts which I am grateful and blessed to be using to help others!I use to do videos in my car about caregiving, and videos of Matt to dispell the myths of Alzheimer's being an " old person 's disease!I was discovered by Jeanne White, who is Station Manager of PWTRN.Jeanne interviewed me on her show and asked me to speak weekly on her show!I was given my show after a year!I created # Kick Alzheimer's Ass Movement Group so caregivers wouldn't travel this difficult journey alone.In 2021,I was nominated and received the Caregiver Visionary Advocate Award by Caregiving. Com.I recently was listed at #17 on FeedSpot 's top 70 Caregiver Podcast List!I am proof that you can survive and thrive during caregiving!I have learned to integrate my grieving with my living!I am grateful and blessed to be alive and healthy!I give GOD the glory and honor for giving me the strength and grace to make it through caregiving and to be called to serve others!Matt was my catalyst and will always be my inspiration for all that I do!"🎧 Chatting with Betsy on Passionate World Talk Radio🎵 Listen on Amazon Music📘 Join #KickAlzheimersAssMovement on Facebook💼 Connect with Betsy on LinkedInIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. To download your free chapter today, visit https://lafayawaypoker.com.

What do you do when life knocks you flat .. and then kicks you again for good measure? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Jill Brown, who shares the story of how she went from burnout and heartbreak to full-on transformation.After 22 years running her own driving school, Jill hit what she thought was rock bottom: loss after loss, a diabetes diagnosis, and the shocking news that she’d need two knee replacements. But instead of giving up, Jill paused, tuned in, and made a bold choice to rewrite her story.Together, we talk about:Why “folding” can be the most powerful first move - if it gives you space to observe and resetThe turning point moment (on a couch, with an omelet!) that changed everythingHow she reversed her diabetes and avoided surgery by becoming her own health advocateHer go-to daily practice to stay grounded, clear, and resilient (spoiler: it takes less than 2 minutes)What it means to be the powerful creator of your life - no matter the hand you’ve been dealtJill is living proof that you don’t have to accept the cards you’re given - you can reshuffle the deck and change the game. Favorite quote:“You have the control to change anything. You are the powerful creator of your life.” —Jill BrownFind out more and connect with Jill: After over 22yrs owning my driving school and retiring I was told I needed two knee replacements and diagnosed diabetic. This was a dark time until taking control and research I found a personal trainer who understood, after getting stronger no longer needed knee replacements and reversed my diabetes. I then trained as a life coach, conversational intelligence advanced practitioner, clutter cleaning coach using the Linn method. We are powerful beyond belief.  Join her beautiful community of possibility seekers here: Advance Life Coaching Facebook GroupIf you're interested in learning more about playing the hand you're dealt in this mental game of life, you'll love my book Poker: A Woman's Game. Download your free chapter today at lafayawaypoker.com