Stories from Real Life

FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Dr. Nelva Lee, a candidate for Georgia Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Lee shares her journey from being a homeschool mom to a healthcare leader and educator, emphasizing the importance of school choice, vocational training, and empowering parents. She discusses her leadership experiences, insights from government health policy, and the need for schools to support families. Dr. Lee also reflects on her faith’s role in public service and offers encouragement to students about discovering their purposeDr. Nelva LeeStories from Real Life.Keywordseducation, school choice, vocational training, leadership, empowerment, family support, public service, faith, Georgia, Dr. Nelva Lee Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Sleep is often treated as negotiable — something we squeeze in after work, family, ambition, and obligation. But what if that assumption is costing us more than we realize? (Please excuse the audio problems on my end.)In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Melvin E. Edwards sits down with Dr. Ben Long (The Wholehearted MD), a physician and sleep specialist who approaches rest through both clinical science and spiritual reflection. Together, they explore how sleep deprivation shapes decision-making, moral clarity, professional identity, and overall well-being—especially in high-pressure fields like medicine.Ben shares insights from his work with patients and medical trainees, discusses the hidden cultural messages that discourage rest, and explains why sleep should be understood not as a luxury, but as a foundational practice for a meaningful life.In this episode, we discuss:* Why chronic exhaustion is often a systems problem, not a personal one* How sleep deprivation affects judgment, empathy, and moral decision-making* The intersection of faith, medicine, and rest* Why productivity culture undermines human flourishing* Practical ways to rethink sleep without increasing anxiety around itThis conversation is thoughtful, grounded, and quietly challenging—an invitation to reconsider what it means to live, work, and rest well.Guest: Dr. Ben Long (The Wholehearted MD)Host: Melvin E. EdwardsPodcast: Stories from Real Life Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages with Kristen Swan, who shares her insights on personal growth, curiosity, and the importance of reflection during life transitions. They discuss the impact of early life experiences on curiosity, the journey from landscape design to coaching, and the concept of spiritual autobiography. Kristen introduces her unique journaling method, ‘Spaghetti on the Wall,’ which encourages self-awareness and non-judgmental observation. The conversation also explores the fear of success, the relationship between spirituality and professional growth, and the significance of support systems in building confidence.FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.Kristan Swan’s websiteStories from Real Life website Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.Episode Summary:Today’s guest is Lt. Helton Pereira — born in Rio de Janeiro, immigrant at 15, pre-med student turned EMT, firefighter, paramedic, and now Lieutenant in the U.S. Fire Service. He joins us to share how one fire extinguisher instructor changed his life, why firefighters lose love for the job, and why putting life in the right order — Faith, Family, Fitness, Firefighting — is the only way to survive the weight of the fire service and still love it.What We Cover– Immigration and identity– Becoming an EMT and entering fire service by accident– Trauma, loss, and nearly burning out– Protecting marriage and kids while serving a demanding career– Creating a movement and writing a book– Why mentorship matters more than gear or tacticsLinks– The First Things First – Book & Resources: www.TheFirstThingsFirst.com Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.In this episode, we speak with Mark Burnett, founder of My Brain Restore™, about his personal battle with Parkinson’s and early Alzheimer’s — and the controversial path that followed. My Brain RestoreBurnett discusses:* His diagnoses and the moment he realized standard treatment offered no path to recovery* Why he turned to Japanese neurological research overlooked in Western medicine* The development of his proprietary processing method and why he believes it matters* What he can measure, what he cannot yet prove, and where critics are right to be skeptical* The ethical risks of self-experimentation when the alternative is slow decline* Why FDA limitations complicate public conversations about neurological recoveryThis is not a promotional interview. It is a rigorous, good-faith examination of claims, evidence, and uncertainty, designed to let listeners decide for themselves where they land.Topics Covered:* Parkinson’s disease* Alzheimer’s disease* Neurodegeneration and brain plasticity* Supplements vs. pharmaceuticals* Evidence standards and clinical trials* FDA regulation and medical claims* Patient-driven innovationImportant Disclaimer:This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult licensed medical professionals before making health decisions. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with filmmaker and author Matthew Pridgen, creator of the documentary The Sins of Our Fathers: Race, Religion, and the Rise of Trump. This powerful conversation explores how Christian nationalism, generational racism, and white evangelical culture helped shape the political rise of Donald Trump—and what that means for America today.Drawing from his own dramatic life transformation—from addiction and atheism to faith and social awareness — Matthew brings a rare combination of vulnerability, insight, and lived experience to this discussion. Together, we unpack the cultural, historical, and theological forces that continue to influence American politics.Key Topics Covered• The inspiration behind The Sins of Our Fathers• How race, religion, and politics intersected during the rise of Donald Trump• The role of Christian nationalism and white evangelical culture• Generational belief systems and inherited racial bias• The fear narratives driving modern political movements• Why so many Christians supported Donald Trump• What Matthew hopes viewers will confront about race and faithWhy This Episode MattersThis conversation is essential for anyone interested in:• race relations in America• evangelical Christianity• Christian nationalism• political polarization• the rise of Trump and its cultural roots• documentary filmmaking focused on social justice• reconciling faith with historical truthAbout the Guest: Matthew PridgenMatthew Pridgen is a documentarian, author, speaker, and advocate who explores the intersections of race, religion, and justice through film and storytelling. His documentary The Sins of Our Fathers has sparked national conversations around racism, faith, and political identity.Resources and LinksWebsite: matthewpridgen.comDocumentary: The Sins of Our Fathers Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Sponsored by: FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations.Episode Summary:In this episode, we sit down with Scott Miller—broadcaster, storyteller, and creator of The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, a show heard in more than 190 countries and ranked #1 in 33 of them. Scott opens up about his extraordinary life story: getting his start in radio at 16, becoming Iowa’s youngest weekday TV sports anchor, surviving a devastating divorce, enduring the loss of his beloved wife just 113 days after their wedding, and nearly giving up on life entirely.Instead of surrendering to tragedy, Scott rebuilt his world. He found new love, moved to Costa Rica, and launched a science-fiction podcast that has now surpassed three million listens and revived dozens of classic vintage sci-fi stories for a global audience.This conversation explores resilience, reinvention, the healing power of storytelling, and the unexpected ways life gives us second—and third—chances.Links & Resources:* The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast: lostscifi.com * Explore the full archive of classic sci-fi storiesRecommended For:Listeners interested in personal transformation, storytelling, grief and healing, podcasting, creative reinvention, and the enduring power of vintage science fiction. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Guest: Danny Johnson — Comedian, Storyteller, “The Everyday Comic”FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Stories From Real Life, Melvin E. Edwards sits down with comedian Danny Johnson, a performer known for turning the ordinary into something hilariously unforgettable. Danny breaks down the art of clean comedy, shares backstage stories from the road, and talks about the power of finding humor in the chaos of daily life.Whether you’re a comedy fan, a creator, or someone who just needs a good laugh, this conversation delivers insight, authenticity, and plenty of punchlines.What We Cover in This Episode* How Danny discovered his comedic voice* Why clean comedy can be sharper, harder, and more rewarding than people think* His writing process and how real life fuels his material* The challenges and joys of performing in clubs, churches, and corporate events* Behind-the-scenes touring moments — including the funniest on-stage surprises* Balancing comedy, family life, and identity* Insights on storytelling, timing, and making normal moments hysterically funny* Why humor remains essential in a tense, polarized world* Danny Johnson’s website* Danny’s new comedy YouTube special: Everything Bothers Me* Follow Danny on social media (IG, TikTok, etc.) @DannyJohnsonComedy About the GuestDanny Johnson is a stand-up comedian known for his clean, relatable, and story-driven humor. His ability to turn everyday frustrations into laugh-out-loud material has made him a standout performer across clubs, corporate events, churches, and comedy festivals. Often described as “The Everyday Comic,” Danny brings wit, warmth, and genuine perspective to every stage he touches. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

FOREVER Digital Storage - Their mission is to be the complete, permanent, and safe place where millions of families save and enjoy their memories for generations. Please support this sponsor of the podcast.Episode Summary:In this episode, New York State Senate–funded dyslexia researcher Russell Van Brocklen reveals how his groundbreaking “word-analysis-first” approach helped high school juniors and seniors leap 7–8 grade levels in writing in a single school year. Every one of them entered college. Every one graduated. None needed accommodations.Russell shares the science behind his program, shocking misconceptions about dyslexia, and real stories of students whose passions — baseball, Marvel, welding — became the key to unlocking mastery. Parents and educators will walk away with practical tools they can use tonight.Key Topics:* How word analysis can change everything* Why “lazy” readers aren’t lazy* The real reason homework battles escalate* How to break learning into tiny, winnable steps* What schools miss about dyslexia* How one class achieved GRE-level writing readinessLinks: * DyslexiaClasses.com* The Craft of Research Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Show NotesIn this heartfelt episode of Stories from Real Life, we sit down with “Miss Karen” Bates, a Utah school bus driver who has spent 14 years shaping young lives from the driver’s seat.Miss Karen opens up about her childhood, her 34-year marriage, raising five children, and the meaningful path that led her to become a school bus driver. She shares stories filled with laughter, love, and the moments that still bring tears to her eyes — from unforgettable encounters with students to the silent struggles she’s witnessed along the way.This conversation reveals the unseen emotional labor of a job often overlooked — and the profound ripple effect one person can have simply by showing up every day.🎧 Topics include:* Life before the bus route* Marriage, motherhood, and legacy* The unseen challenges of school transportation* Moments of joy and heartbreak on the road* The power of consistency in a child’s lifeA reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories don’t come from stages — they come from the driver’s seat. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Guest: Scott Martin — Author, Coach, AdvocateEpisode DescriptionIn this deeply moving episode of Stories from Real Life, we sit down with Scott Martin — former elite soccer coach, author of Play From Your Heart, and living example of resilience in its rawest form.Scott shares the moment his life changed forever after being diagnosed with Group A Strep and Necrotizing Fasciitis — an illness that left him without his hands and feet and forced him into the most difficult season of his life. He opens up about depression, identity loss, and what it meant to transition from the privilege of athletic achievement to life labeled as “disabled.”But this story doesn’t end in tragedy.From adopting five children from Romania and Ethiopia to returning to coach his beloved “Soccer Rats,” Scott reveals what rebuilding really looks like — not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. He explains the meaning behind his life philosophy, the role of music in healing, and why the final chapter of his book remains intentionally redacted.This conversation is raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful — a reminder that even when life strips everything away, the heart still knows how to lead.In This Episode, You’ll Hear:* Scott’s battle with Necrotizing Fasciitis and the trauma that followed* The emotional impact of suddenly becoming “disabled”* His journey through depression and back to purpose* The story behind Play From Your Heart* Why he chose adoption, coaching, and rebuilding over retreat* What real resilience looks like when no one is watchingConnect with Scott Martin:* Book: Play From Your Heart* Scott Martin Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

What does it truly mean to coach — not just athletes, but young men navigating life?In this powerful and reflective episode, we sit down with Boyd-Buchanan high school baseball coaches Matt Roberson and Gene Bowles for a conversation that goes far beyond wins and losses. Together, they share the defining moments that shaped their careers, the challenges that tested their resolve, and the unseen sacrifices that come with leading from the dugout.From their earliest connections to the game to the players who changed them forever, these two respected leaders offer an honest look at the heart of coaching — the responsibility, the pressure, the purpose, and the legacy built one season at a time.This episode explores:* The personal journeys that led them into coaching* The moments that tested their commitment* How failure shaped their leadership* Stories of players who left a lasting impact* The legacy they hope to leave behindWhether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or simply someone who values leadership and mentorship, this conversation is a powerful reminder that the greatest victories aren’t always reflected on the scoreboard — they’re seen in the lives transformed along the way. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Today on Stories from Real Life, we’re joined by Tami Gaines, author of Preemie Parents: 26 Ways to Grow With Your Premature Baby, resilience strategist, and speaker who has inspired audiences of hundreds of thousands. Tami knows firsthand the challenges of raising premature twins while balancing life, work, and personal growth. In this episode, she shares her story of courage, the lessons she learned in the NICU, and practical insights for transforming life’s toughest moments into growth opportunities.Show NotesJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Tami Gaines as she shares her personal journey of raising premature twins and transforming life’s challenges into lessons of resilience.In this episode, you’ll discover:* How Tami navigated the intense early days in the NICU and the lessons that shaped her parenting.* Practical advice from her book, Preemie Parents: 26 Ways to Grow With Your Premature Baby.* How to reframe crises into opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.* Tips for building resilience and maintaining hope when life feels out of control.Resources & Links:* Tami Gaines’ website: https://preemieparentsbook.com* Follow Tami Gaines: https://www.tamigaines.com* Stories from Real Life Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Episode IntroIn today’s episode of Stories from Real Life, we’re stepping inside the clubhouse with hospitality leader Joe Carlucci — a man who’s spent his career turning golf clubs and restaurants into communities.From the kitchen to the course, Joe understands that great hospitality isn’t just about food or service — it’s about creating moments that make people feel seen, valued, and at home.In this conversation, we talk about leadership, creativity, and the small details that turn a good experience into an unforgettable one. Whether you’re a golfer, a restaurant owner, or just someone who loves people — this episode is for you.📝 Show NotesEpisode Title: Beyond the 18th Hole: The Heart of Hospitality Episode Summary:In this episode, host Melvin E. Edwards sits down with Joe Carlucci, a seasoned clubhouse and restaurant leader who has spent decades redefining what hospitality means in the golf industry. Joe shares stories from the greens and the dining room — about leadership under pressure, building community, and creating spaces where people belong.Topics Covered:* How Joe found his calling in golf club hospitality* What makes a dining experience memorable* Lessons in leadership and team motivation* Funny and heartwarming stories from years on the fairwayKey Quote:“Hospitality is about more than service — it’s about belonging. If you make people feel seen, they’ll never forget how you made them feel.” — Joe CarlucciConnect with Joe Carlucci:🔗 LinkedIn🎙️ Podmatch Profile Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

🎧 Episode Intro:When firefighter and paramedic Jim Brown was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer, his life took a turn no training could prepare him for. Out of his struggle came something extraordinary — a nationwide guitar group that’s helping men find healing through music, honesty, and connection.📝 Show Notes:In this heartfelt episode of Stories from Real Life, Melvin E. Edwards sits down with Jim Brown — cancer survivor, former firefighter, and founder of the “Cancer Camp Guitar Club.” They discuss masculinity, vulnerability, and the surprising power of a few chords to bring men back to life after crisis.Key themes:* Living with stage four cancer* Music therapy and emotional healing* The Man Up to Cancer community* Redefining strength and vulnerability* Brotherhood through shared struggle🎙️ About the GuestJim Brown is a retired firefighter and paramedic from Olympia, Washington, and a stage four lung cancer survivor. After decades of serving others in crisis, his own diagnosis led him to a new mission — helping men facing cancer find healing through music and community.Jim is the founder of a nationwide guitar group that gives men a safe space to connect, express emotion, and rediscover hope through the power of song. He’s also a proud member and contributor to the Man Up to Cancer community, where he advocates for vulnerability, brotherhood, and living fully in the face of illness.🔗 Connect with Jim🌐 Learn more: NWPB Feature on Jim Brown📧 Contact: Man Up to Cancer – info@manuptocancer.org📱 Community: Man Up to Cancer on Facebook Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

🎧 Stories from Real Life🎙️ Episode Title: “Engineering a Meaningful Life”Episode Summary:Dr. Tomás Estrada doesn’t just teach engineering — he teaches perspective. In this conversation, the Elizabethtown College professor opens up about the stories that shaped him, the moments that challenged him, and the students who changed the way he sees his work.He talks about what it means to build something lasting — not only in the lab, but in life. From childhood curiosity to quiet moments of doubt and discovery, Dr. Estrada reminds us that the most meaningful designs aren’t always made of metal or code. Sometimes, they’re made of courage, compassion, and connection.About the Guest:Dr. Tomás Estrada is an engineering professor at the highly ranked Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania, known for blending technical excellence with a human touch. His work focuses on helping students discover not just how things work — but why they matter. Dr. Estrada received a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Universidad de Costa Rica in 2002, a M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 2005, and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, also from the University of Notre Dame, in 2009.🌐 Guest LinksTomas Estrada, Ph.D.Elizabethtown CollegeOrder of the EngineerStories from Real Life is hosted by writer Melvin E. Edwards — a podcast about ordinary people living extraordinary stories, where every episode explores the meaning, struggle, and beauty behind the moments that shape us.Personal Stories. Global Impact.Stories from Real Life website Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

🎧 Stories from Real LifeEpisode: “The Other Side of the Gun – Susan Snow’s Journey Through Trauma, Grief, and Forgiveness”Summary:When Susan Snow was 17, her father — Los Angeles Police Detective Thomas C. Williams — was murdered in the line of duty. That single, devastating moment changed the course of her life forever.For decades, Susan lived with the unseen weight of trauma and unhealed grief. It took years before she found the language, the tools, and the courage to face what she had buried so deeply.Today, Susan is an author, speaker, and survivor who helps others navigate the long road from tragedy to transformation. In this deeply personal episode, she opens up about the hidden cost of trauma, the power of boundaries, and the life-changing difference between forgiveness and forgetting.💬 In This Episode* The day everything changed — losing her father to violence at 17* Living with trauma and PTSD before she had a name for it* The slow and often painful path to healing* Why forgiveness doesn’t mean erasing the past* How setting boundaries can be an act of love and survival* Turning grief into purpose and pain into power🕊️ Key ThemesResilience. Forgiveness. Boundaries. Transformation.Susan’s story reminds us that healing is not a straight line — it’s a daily act of courage.🌐 Guest LinksSusan SnowWebsite: susansnowspeaks.comInstagram: @susansnowspeaksBook: The Other Side of the Gun 🎙️ About the ShowStories from Real Life, hosted by writer Melvin E. Edwards, shares powerful conversations with people who have faced extraordinary challenges — and found meaning, hope, and purpose through them.Personal Stories. Global Impact. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Beware: This conversation includes a discussion of alcoholism and suicide. At 72, most people are slowing down. But for Rand Timmerman, life’s greatest challenge — and greatest healing — came on a 2,000-mile trek through the Appalachian Mountains. A Marine, lawyer, and recovering alcoholic, Rand set out with his 71-year-old brother to walk, reflect, and rediscover what really matters. This is a story about endurance, faith, and the long road home.Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here. Rand Timmerman’s websitewww.podcastreallife.com storiesfromreallife.substack.com Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Everyone carries a story about their father — the one we got, the one we needed, and maybe even the one we’ve become.In this episode of Stories from Real Life, I talk with Patton Dodd, writer, editor, and author of The Father You Get: And the Ones You Make, Believe In, and Become.Patton’s story explores what it means to inherit pain and still choose purpose, to face the past without being defined by it, and to discover grace in the mess of family life.Together, we talk about father wounds, forgiveness, and the ways faith and storytelling help us rewrite who we are — and who we can still become.Patton Dodd’s websiteThe Father We Get bookStories from Real Life websiteThe Strength of a Thousand SonsPatton Dodd on LinkedIn Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Dr. Justin Woods about his book, Crowns of Valor, and the concept of Five Crowns Outreach. They discuss the importance of leadership development in Christianity, the dangers of cozy Christianity, and the significance of suffering for the gospel. Dr. Woods emphasizes the need for biblical literacy and the role of the church in raising the next generation of leaders. The conversation also touches on the distinction between timeless principles and trendy ministry fads, encouraging listeners to focus on genuine faith and action.https://authors.tertulia.com/drjustinrwoods-drafteldm83https://www.patreon.com/cw/5CrownsOutreachWant to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifewww.podcastreallife.com storiesfromreallife.substack.com Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe