Spirits and Stories With Donald Dunn

What does it take to go from preaching sermons to leading high-risk FBI tactical operations?In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, Donald Dunn sits down with Eric Robinson — former FBI Special Agent, 15-year SWAT operator, and national security investigator — to unpack what really happens behind the scenes in counterterrorism, civil rights investigations, tactical entries, and high-stakes interrogations.Eric shares:• His unexpected transition from Baptist pastor to FBI agent • How FBI investigations actually work behind the curtain • The truth about domestic vs. international terrorism threats • What SWAT operations look like in real life (not Hollywood) • The psychology behind interrogating violent offenders • Why rapport-building beats torture every time • The emotional toll of crimes against children cases • The evolution of surround-and-call-out tactical methods • The mindset required to operate in high-risk environmentsWe also dive into the story behind his upcoming book, Irreverent (working title: Preacher to Breacher) — a raw, honest look at faith, federal law enforcement, leadership, and identity.If you’re interested in the FBI, SWAT tactics, counterterrorism, law enforcement leadership, military transition, or the psychology of interrogation, this episode will challenge what you think you know.🎙 Hosted by Donald Dunn 📚 Book release coming FallSubscribe for more conversations with veterans, federal agents, entrepreneurs, and leaders shaping America.Links referenced in this episode:amazon.comweavinginfluence.com

What happens when a United States Marine decides pain and fatigue aren’t “just part of getting older”?In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, host Donald Dunn sits down with Marine veteran and entrepreneur Lee Ettinger — a former Special Operations qualified service member who transitioned from the battlefield to business.After years of pushing through injuries, inflammation, and energy crashes, Lee refused to accept the status quo. Instead, he spent nearly a decade researching natural compounds and scientific studies to develop what he calls the world’s first energized pain reliever — Power Plus Pain Aid.This conversation goes beyond business.It’s about: • Reinventing yourself after the military • Overcoming physical breakdown at fifty • The science behind natural pain relief • Why most energy drinks do more harm than good • The brutal reality of manufacturing and distribution • COVID’s impact on small businesses • And what resilience really looks like after serviceIf you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, athlete, or someone fighting fatigue and chronic pain — this episode will hit home.Watch now and discover how one Marine turned frustration into innovation.Learn more about Power Plus: DrinkPowerPlus.comLinks referenced in this episode:drink powerplus.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Power plusJocko WillickConundrum

How do you successfully lead a remote team without losing connection, culture, or performance? In this episode of The Real Leadership Brief, Donald Dunn sits down with engineering leader Limor Bergman-Gross to break down practical leadership strategies that work in today’s remote and hybrid workforce.From performance reviews and hiring for culture fit to giving constructive feedback using the SBI framework (Situation-Behavior-Impact), this conversation covers real-world tools leaders can apply immediately. They also explore how to ask better questions, reduce bias, manage remote employees effectively, and build high-performing teams without face-to-face interaction.If you’re a manager, executive, transitioning veteran, or professional navigating leadership in a changing workforce, this episode will give you actionable insights to grow your influence and improve team performance.Listen now to learn how intentional leadership drives results — even from a distance.

What does skydiving have to do with leadership?In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, Donald Dunn sits down with leadership coach and engineering executive Joe to explore how stepping outside your comfort zone transforms the way you lead, think, and grow.With over 650 skydives and years of experience building high-performance teams in mission-critical environments, Joe shares practical leadership lessons on:How to overcome fear and take calculated risksWhy growth mindset beats achievement mindsetHow to reduce risk without becoming paralyzedThe importance of defining your “why” in leadershipHow young leaders today are reshaping the futureWhy awareness and perspective matter more than everWhether you're a business owner, executive, veteran transitioning to civilian life, or someone feeling stuck in your professional growth, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately.Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about courage, clarity, and consistency.If you’re ready to level up your leadership skills, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and push beyond self-imposed limits, this conversation is for you. If you like podcasts that help improve peoples lives and filled with story telling, Check out https://barracksmedia.com/networkLinks referenced in this episode:wyserwithjoe.comlinkedin.com/in/wyserwithjoeinstagram.com/wyserwithjoehttps://barracksmedia.comhttps://barracksmedia.com/network

What does it take to drive nearly eight thousand miles the length of Africa — without GPS, cell phones, or modern safety nets?In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, Donald Dunn sits down with adventurer, journalist, and memoirist Barry Maughan, who recounts his extraordinary journey from Alexandria, Egypt to Cape Agulhas, South Africa — alongside his wife and their one-year-old son.Long before digital maps and electronic “tethers,” Barry navigated jungle washouts, desert crossings, political coups, malaria, mechanical breakdowns, and life-changing encounters across fifteen African countries. His journey wasn’t about bravado — it was about preparation, humility, and meeting people with respect.In this episode, we explore:What Africa was like before modern travel technologyHow serendipity shaped a life-changing expeditionLessons in courage, resilience, and human connectionCovering political upheaval and drought as a foreign correspondentThe “oneness of love” moment that defined the entire journeyWhy travel reduces fear and builds understandingBarry shares how this experience shaped his children’s worldview, his journalism career with Voice of America, and ultimately his memoir Beneath the African Sun.This conversation is not just about travel. It’s about perspective. It’s about humanity. It’s about what happens when you step beyond fear.If you’ve ever wondered:Is Africa safe to travel?What was overland travel like before GPS?How does extreme travel change a family?What life lessons come from long-distance adventure?This episode answers those questions — and more.Listen in, feel the journey, and discover why Barry says Africa gave him more than he ever expected.Links referenced in this episode:barrymaughan.comFind top podcasts at https://barracksmedia.com/networkMentioned in this episode:Listen on Apple

In this episode of Spirits and Stories, Donald Dunn sits down with author and photographer Charlie Siegel for a deep conversation on meditation, spiritual awareness, creativity, and healing. Raised in a deeply spiritual environment and now helping lead the Wisdom of the Ages Center, Charlie shares how mindfulness, intuition, and inner stillness shape both his writing and photography.The discussion explores how meditation influences creativity, how people process grief and life transitions, the idea of spiritual guidance, and why connecting with nature can profoundly affect mental and emotional well-being. Charlie also reflects on self-publishing, storytelling as a tool for healing, and the unseen patterns that often guide personal growth.This episode is for anyone interested in meditation, spiritual development, consciousness, creative expression, personal transformation, and finding meaning through life’s challenges.Topics include:• Meditation and mental clarity• Spiritual guides and intuition• Healing through writing and photography• Creativity and mindfulness• Grief, growth, and perspective• Nature, awareness, and inner peaceBarracks Media Inc

Is there really a light people see after death? In this deeply thought-provoking episode of Spirits and Stories, we explore the mysteries surrounding the life and death journey with spiritual teacher Michael Waters. Drawing from extraordinary afterlife experiences, Michael shares his work in psychopomp work — the practice of crossing lost souls into the light — guided by Native American spirit guides.The conversation dives into landlocked spirits, reincarnation, spirit guides, and the life review many believe occurs after death. We also examine the relationship between consciousness and energy, shamanic journeying, emotional healing, and how unresolved trauma may influence spiritual lessons beyond this life.From mystical experiences and paranormal encounters to discussions about remote viewing and indigo children, this episode challenges conventional thinking while offering a compassionate perspective on death, healing past traumas, and the nature of the afterlife.If you’ve ever questioned what happens when we die, how spiritual guidance works, or whether consciousness survives the body, this episode will leave you reflecting long after it ends.Join us On Substack and stay up to date with everything happening with Spirits and Stories https://zlpceut.substack.com/?utm_campaign=pub&utm_medium=web

Is PTSD a Soul Wound? What Veterans Need to Know About Moral Injury?In this powerful conversation, Dr. Edward Tick joins The Healing Side to explore whether PTSD is more than a diagnosis — and whether it may actually be a soul wound. Drawing on over forty years of experience in holistic psychotherapy and veteran therapy, Dr. Edward Tick breaks down moral injury, the invisible wounds of war, and what true PTSD healing looks like beyond medication and symptom management.This episode dives deep into trauma recovery for veterans, exploring how moral injury differs from traditional PTSD, why some wars leave deeper spiritual scars, and how transgenerational trauma can pass through families. Dr. Tick shares insights on the warrior archetype, soul wounds, and why veterans mental health must include spiritual healing and community-based healing — not just clinical treatment.You’ll hear powerful Vietnam veteran stories and learn about Dr. Tick’s reconciliation journeys back to Vietnam, where healing journeys have helped veterans confront guilt, release shame, and experience emotional healing through storytelling and sacred ceremony. These trauma-informed care approaches offer a radically different path for veterans support — one rooted in connection, meaning, and restoration of the human soul.If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD healing, moral injury, or the lingering emotional weight of combat, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and a deeper understanding of holistic psychotherapy and healing through storytelling.This episode is for anyone seeking emotional healing for veterans, greater understanding of the invisible wounds of war, and a new framework for trauma recovery grounded in spiritual healing and reconciliation.Takeaways:Dr. Edward Tick emphasizes that PTSD is a universal human issue, not limited to veterans.The concept of moral injury is discussed as a profound wound affecting the soul of warriors.Dr. Tick's work is dedicated to healing the wounds of war through spiritual and community practices.The importance of understanding and addressing the psychological impacts of conflict on both individuals and families is highlighted.The podcast explores the significance of rites of passage for young men in contemporary society.Healing journeys to Vietnam are described as pivotal for veterans seeking reconciliation and closure.Links referenced in this episode:edwardtick.comdredtick@gmail.com

It’s Not Addiction — It’s Unhealed Trauma | Dr. Robert BleckWhat if addictions, panic attacks, and compulsive behaviors aren’t the real problem — but symptoms of something much deeper? In this powerful Dr. Robert Bleck interview, we explore how unhealed trauma silently shapes our lives and what it truly takes to break free. As the creator of Source Completion Therapy, Dr. Bleck shares permanent healing methods designed to help people move beyond survival and step into lasting emotional freedom.This deeply insightful psychotherapy podcast dives into the root causes of emotional suffering, offering practical emotional healing techniques for anyone navigating pain from the past. Through real-world examples and decades of clinical experience, Dr. Bleck explains how unresolved trauma often leads to destructive coping patterns — and how trauma-informed therapy can help uncover the source so true healing can begin.Listeners will gain perspective on childhood trauma recovery, coping with abuse, and building genuine emotional resilience after adversity. Whether you’re searching for hope, understanding, or a path forward, this conversation highlights why healing emotional wounds requires more than symptom management — it demands courage, awareness, and the willingness to face what was buried.If you care about mental health awareness, are inspired by PTSD recovery stories, or are seeking guidance on your own journey of overcoming childhood abuse, this episode delivers both clarity and possibility. It’s a reminder that personal transformation is achievable — and that healing is not just temporary relief, but a lifelong breakthrough waiting to happen.Links referenced in this episode:robertblack.comamazon.comMentioned in this episode:Listen on AppleListen on Apple

What is it really like to police one of the most violent eras in American history — and then bring law and order to countries shattered by war?In this powerful interview, former law enforcement officer and author Mike shares what it was like working the streets of New York City during the height of the crack epidemic — a time when violent crime surged and officers faced life-or-death decisions daily. But his career didn’t stop there.Mike went on to help rebuild policing systems in war-torn nations where governments had collapsed, infrastructure was destroyed, and communities were struggling to survive. From responding to violent crime in NYC to training police forces overseas, this conversation reveals the realities of law enforcement that most people never see.You’ll learn:✔ What policing was REALLY like during the crack epidemic ✔ How extreme street experience prepares officers for global missions ✔ What happens when a country has no functioning police force ✔ The psychological toll of high-risk law enforcement ✔ Leadership lessons from chaos, conflict, and rebuilding order ✔ The biggest myths about policing — and the truth behind themWhether you're interested in law enforcement, military experience, leadership under pressure, or real-world stories from dangerous environments, this episode delivers raw insight from someone who has lived it.If you enjoy conversations about service, resilience, and the realities behind the badge, make sure to subscribe for more interviews with veterans, leaders, and professionals operating in high-stakes roles. http://jbbyrnenypd.comMentioned in this episode:Listen on Apple

What do New Yorkers really think about Andrew Cuomo, politics, and the culture surrounding power and accountability?In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Sara Alessandrini, creator of the documentary miniseries This Is What New Yorkers Say, to unpack the real conversations happening on the streets of New York. Filmed over five years, her project captures unfiltered public opinion during and after the controversial tenure of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.Rather than pushing a political agenda, Alessandrini’s work explores the human side of modern politics—examining women’s empowerment, cancel culture, due process, and how public perception collides with media narratives. Through candid interviews with everyday New Yorkers, the series exposes the complexity, contradictions, and emotional weight behind political opinion in one of the most influential cities in the world.This conversation dives into the challenges of political filmmaking, the responsibility of storytelling, and why listening—rather than labeling—matters more than ever in today’s polarized climate.Takeaways:Filmmaker Sara Alessandrini explores the intricate intersection of New York politics and personal narratives in her documentary.The documentary investigates how the resignation of Andrew Cuomo impacted everyday New Yorkers and their perspectives on governance.Through Candid Conversations, the series delves into critical issues such as women's empowerment and the implications of cancel culture.The project emphasizes the necessity of nuanced dialogue, allowing marginalized voices to be heard beyond mainstream narratives.Sara's work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths regarding societal norms and the application of due process.The documentary serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding the complexities of modern political landscapes and social justice movements.Links referenced in this episode:thisiswhatnew Yorkerssay.comapple tv on demandyoutubezoomoCompanies mentioned in this episode:Candid ConversationsFoxCNNMentioned in this episode:Build your website today and start reaching CustomersContact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planningLets build a show that will inspire generations!Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

This episode of Spirits and Stories with Donald Dunn explores the often-unspoken realities of military service and the transition to civilian life through the story of Paul, a veteran who joined the military for practical reasons rather than idealism. He reflects on the motivations that led him to enlist, the financial decisions many young service members face, and the lessons learned through experience, mistakes, and growth.Through candid and often humorous stories, the conversation examines how military life shapes identity, accountability, and resilience—and how those traits carry over into life after the uniform comes off. The episode also touches on the challenges of adapting to civilian roles, the pressure to appear successful despite personal struggles, and the different paths veterans take as they rebuild purpose and direction, including entrepreneurship.At its core, this episode is about identity, adaptation, and the human side of life after service.TakeawaysMany service members enlist for practical or financial reasons rather than patriotism alone. Young soldiers often struggle with financial responsibility early in their careers. Military service builds accountability and leadership, but those skills must be adapted for civilian life. Transitioning out of the military can be challenging and disorienting. Veterans often find new purpose by applying their experience to business, creativity, or entrepreneurship.Linksnashvilleadventures.comCompanies mentionedSingular Amazon Nashville Adventures

This podcast episode delves into the intricate narratives of military service, emphasizing the profound impact that such experiences have on personal growth and career trajectories. Our guests, both veterans, share their unique journeys into the military, recounting how motivations often stemmed from a desire for direction and purpose amidst life's challenges. The discussion further explores the evolution of military medicine and the vital role it plays in contemporary healthcare, particularly in response to modern threats. Noteworthy anecdotes reveal the camaraderie and resilience found within military life, illustrating that the bonds formed in service extend far beyond the battlefield. Through this dialogue, we aim to illuminate the multifaceted lives of veterans, challenging the perception that their stories are solely defined by combat, while also encouraging a greater understanding of their contributions to society. The dialogue between Speakers A and B unfolds in a candid and engaging manner, revealing their personal experiences and reflections on military life, notably their journeys before and after service. Speaker B, a Navy veteran, reminisces about his motivations for joining the military, shaped by a familial legacy of service and a desire for direction in life. The conversation highlights the transformative power of military service, as both speakers recount the impact of their experiences, particularly in the context of camaraderie and personal growth. They reflect on the complexities of transitioning to civilian life, discussing the challenges faced and the skills acquired during their service, which continue to resonate in their current endeavors. The episode encapsulates the essence of veteran narratives, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories that reflect both the trials and triumphs of military life, and the bonds formed through shared experiences. As the discussion progresses, a notable theme emerges regarding the evolution of medical practices within the military, with Speaker B detailing his journey into the medical field post-service. His experiences as a corpsman, coupled with subsequent advancements in emergency medicine, underscore a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. This perspective is particularly relevant given the rapid advancements in medical technology and practices, both in the military and civilian sectors. The exchange serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience required in the face of adversity and the ongoing quest for knowledge and growth, particularly in the context of healthcare. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the notion that the lessons learned in service extend far beyond the battlefield, shaping a lifetime of experiences and contributions to society. Concluding with reflections on the significance of storytelling, the speakers emphasize the cathartic nature of writing and the importance of sharing personal narratives. Speaker B’s journey into writing, spurred by his military experiences, illustrates the therapeutic power of expressing one’s thoughts and emotions through the written word. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their stories, regardless of the medium, highlighting the healing potential inherent in sharing one’s truth. The episode encapsulates a broader message about the necessity of community and connections forged through shared experiences, advocating for a culture of openness and understanding, particularly among veterans. As the speakers navigate their pasts and present, they illuminate the path forward, encouraging others to reflect on their journeys and the narratives that define them.Takeaways:The speakers reflect on their military backgrounds and the personal motivations for joining the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of direction and purpose in life.They discuss how their experiences in the military shaped their careers and personal lives, illustrating the transformative power of service and camaraderie.The conversation highlights the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life, particularly in terms of maintaining relevant skills and adapting to new environments.The speakers underscore the significance of storytelling and writing as a therapeutic outlet for veterans, allowing them to process their experiences and share their narratives with others.They note the importance of building relationships within the military community, which often leads to career opportunities and support in civilian life.The discussion touches on the evolving nature of medicine and emergency response, particularly how military experiences have influenced advancements in these fields.Links referenced in this episode:johnnygilpin.comMentioned in this episode:Listen on Apple

Our guest, Danny Johnson, embodies the essence of clean, relatable comedy, having dedicated nearly two decades to the art of making people laugh while maintaining a sincere and genuine approach. Throughout his illustrious career, he has traversed the nation, performing at various venues including clubs, churches, and corporate events, where he draws upon his personal experiences with mental health challenges and physical struggles to craft humor that resonates deeply with audiences. His profound desire to momentarily alleviate the burdens of life for others underscores the heartfelt nature of his comedy. Danny's performances have garnered comparisons to iconic comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld and Kevin James, showcasing his exceptional writing skills, impeccable timing, and memorable facial expressions. As we engage in a revealing conversation, we explore the intricacies of maintaining a clean comedic style and the unique challenges that accompany it, all while celebrating the joy of laughter and connection within the audience. The podcast features an enlightening dialogue with Danny Johnson, a seasoned comedian renowned for his clean and relatable humor. With nearly two decades of experience, Danny has traveled extensively, showcasing his comedic talents in diverse venues, including clubs, churches, and corporate events. His humor is deeply rooted in his own experiences, encompassing struggles with mental health and the quest for self-improvement, which resonates profoundly with audiences seeking genuine and uplifting entertainment. Throughout the conversation, we explore the essence of clean comedy, the challenges and joys of making people laugh in a wholesome manner, and the significance of connection between the comedian and the audience. Danny's approach to comedy is not merely about eliciting laughter; it is about creating a shared moment of respite from the troubles of daily life. He emphasizes the responsibility comedians have to their audiences, especially when performing in environments where expectations for clean content are paramount. The episode not only highlights Danny's impressive career and notable performances but also delves into the nuances of crafting jokes that are both funny and appropriate, offering insights into the art of stand-up comedy that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.Takeaways:The podcast features Danny Johnson, a comedian renowned for his clean and relatable humor, accumulated over nearly two decades.Johnson's comedy draws inspiration from his personal struggles with mental health, offering audiences a momentary escape from their own troubles.He has performed at a variety of venues, including clubs, churches, and corporate events, showcasing his versatility as a clean comedian.The discussion highlights the challenges of maintaining audience engagement, particularly in environments not solely focused on comedy, such as bars or casinos.Johnson emphasizes the importance of building a connection with the audience to enhance their experience during performances.The episode also touches upon the evolution of comedy in the age of social media, where content creators often leverage their online following to transition into live performances.Links referenced in this episode:dannyjohnson.comyoutube.comapple.comamazon.compeacock.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Comedy CentralDry Bar ComedyNetflixCobra KaiAmazonPeacockJim Gaffigan

What if the thing blocking your book isn’t craft, time, or talent—but identity? In this episode of Authors After Action, bestselling author and transformational coach Nina Amir reveals why most writers fail long before page one—and how inner alignment is the real publishing advantage.Nina shares her journey from childhood horse stories to magazine journalism, book editing, and ultimately walking away from industry-defined success to reclaim purpose. She explains why publishing is a business, how authors sabotage themselves by skipping platform and planning, and why personal growth is the hidden engine behind every meaningful book.This conversation bridges the practical and the personal—covering self-publishing vs. traditional deals, the dangers of vanity presses, how to think like a publisher, and what actually happens when writers face rejection. Nina reframes “no” as data, not destiny, and shows how authors can step into the identity required to do the work.If you’ve ever said “someday I’ll write my book,” this episode shows you why someday is the enemy—and what it really takes to become the author you say you want to be.TakeawaysPublishing is a business—whether you self-publish or sign a traditional deal, you must think like an entrepreneur.The biggest mistake new authors make is skipping audience-building and platform work.Self-publishing means owning all the risk: editing, design, marketing, and distribution.Rejection isn’t personal; it’s feedback about product-market fit.You can learn every step of publishing—but you must be willing to grow.You don’t become an author after you publish—you publish after you become an author. LinksNina Amir (Main Site): https://ninaamir.comWrite Nonfiction Now: https://writenonfictionnow.comBooks by Nina Amir: https://booksbyninaamir.comChange the World One Book at a Time (New Book): Available at all major booksellersNonfiction Writers University – via https://ninaamir.comInspired Creator Community – via https://ninaamir.comFree 15-Minute Session with Nina – available on her websiteCompanies & Platforms MentionedAmazonBarnes & NobleIngramSparkDraft2DigitalSmashwordsSyracuse UniversitySelf Magazine Chapters00:00:02 – Welcome to Authors After Action & Meet Nina Amir00:00:58 – Childhood Stories and the First Call to Write00:02:24 – From Journalism School to Publishing00:05:23 – Psychology, Coaching, and the Inner Path00:06:41 – The Most Common Author Mistake00:07:22 – Why Publishing Is a Business00:08:10 – Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Deals00:16:38 – IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and Distribution Reality00:18:16 – Vanity Presses & Costly Traps00:23:39 – What Writers Do Next With Nina00:27:52 – Handling Rejection Without Quitting00:32:07 – Why “Fit” Matters in Publishing00:35:12 – Where to Find & Work With Nina AmirAuthors After Action reveals the human journeys behind the books—and this episode proves that every real story begins with an inner decision.

In this episode of Authors After Action, we bring you a powerful storytelling podcast experience grounded in real life stories, inspiring interviews, and the depth of the human experience. We sit down with Elise Allison—sailor, author, and adventurer—whose personal journey carried her from a New Jersey horse farm to life on the open ocean.Alison has sailed through forty-six countries across four continents, transforming each port, culture, and challenge into stories for adults and children alike. Through deep conversations, she shares how living on a boat strips life down to its essentials—survival, connection, and wonder—and how that simplicity reshaped both her worldview and her writing.This episode explores overcoming adversity through reinvention: leaving stability behind, embracing uncertainty, and discovering freedom in motion. Alison resilience stories reveal how adventure becomes art, how the sea teaches humility, and how storytelling can spark curiosity and environmental awareness in the next generation.These life lessons remind us that purpose often waits beyond comfort. Whether you’re drawn to travel, creativity, or stories of transformation, this conversation offers a moving portrait of what happens when you trade routine for the horizon and let experience become your teacher.Takeaways:A bold leap can turn dreams into lived reality.Life at sea simplifies priorities and deepens human connection.Real adventure fuels authentic storytelling.Travel inspires curiosity, empathy, and environmental awareness.Creativity flows when rooted in lived experience.Write what excites you to keep passion alive.Links Referenced in This Episode:AlisonGeishen.comSailmates.orgCompanies Mentioned in This Episode:Defiance Press

The primary focus of this podcast episode centers on the transformative power of storytelling and its profound impact on personal growth and confidence-building. We engage in a compelling conversation with Simone Canego, who shares her diverse journey from a background in accounting to her current passion for storytelling and podcasting. Through her experiences, she emphasizes that one’s career path need not be linear, and encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories as vital components of their identity. Furthermore, we explore the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal narratives, particularly in the context of mental health and self-acceptance. This episode serves as an enlightening reminder that our individual stories can resonate deeply with others, fostering connection and understanding in an increasingly disconnected world.Takeaways:The journey of personal growth often encompasses unexpected twists, as evidenced by my transition from a career in accounting to pursuing storytelling, which I am genuinely passionate about.Engaging in open discussions about our life experiences can profoundly impact others, as sharing our stories fosters connection and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges.Podcasting serves not only as a platform for sharing narratives but also as a therapeutic outlet, allowing us to explore our emotions and experiences in a supportive environment.The importance of confidence cannot be overstated; it is a skill that can be cultivated through practice and experience, as highlighted in our discussions about the growth of my daughter during our podcasting journey.Each episode we produce serves as an opportunity for growth, both for our guests and ourselves, as we navigate the complexities of storytelling and the authentic sharing of experiences.The realization that our struggles resonate beyond our immediate circles is crucial; many listeners relate to the narratives shared, prompting reflection and connection in their own lives.Links referenced in this episode:simonecanego.comrealconfidencebook.comordinary.simonecanego.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:ABCMentioned in this episode:Listen on Apple

In this episode of The Healing Side, we deliver a powerful storytelling podcast experience rooted in real life stories, deep conversations, and the evolving human experience of healing. We sit down with Lincoln Stoller—physicist turned psychotherapist—whose personal journey bridges science, spirit, and psychology into a unified approach to understanding the mind.Lincoln shares how quantum mechanics, mountaineering, cultural immersion, and therapy converge in his work. Through deep conversations, we explore the hidden language of dreams, the nature of trauma, and why altered states of awareness reveal truths ordinary thinking cannot reach. We talk about PTSD and anger, symbolism and self-actualization, and why “empty space”—not constant productivity—is where true growth begins.This episode is about overcoming adversity at the inner level. Lincoln explains the difference between chosen risk and imposed trauma, why anger works in war but fails in civilian life, and how fear and projection become tools for healing. These resilience stories reveal that dreams are not random—they are symbolic maps guiding us back to wholeness.You’ll walk away with meaningful life lessons about awareness, creativity, and the courage to listen to what the mind is already saying. If you’ve ever wondered how science and spirituality truly meet—or how healing actually begins—this conversation invites you to expand how you understand yourself.🌐 Learn more about Lincoln: mindstrengthbalance.comShow Notes Highlights:Lincoln’s path from physicist to psychotherapistShared roots of trauma in academia, business, and combatChosen risk versus imposed traumaDreams as symbolic language (and why dictionaries mislead)The role of “empty space” in healing and creativityPTSD, flashbacks, and altered states of awarenessWhy anger works in war but fails in civilian lifeUsing fear and projection as therapeutic toolsScience, spirit, and symbolism as one model of the mindSelf-actualization as modern enlightenment

What does it really take to build leaders inside a small business—without burning people out or losing your culture?In this episode of The Real Leadership Brief, Donald Dunn sits down with Rich Ashton, a Navy veteran and entrepreneur with more than four decades of experience building, fixing, and selling companies across multiple industries.Rich breaks down why most small businesses struggle with leadership development, how military leadership must evolve in civilian environments, and why growth stalls when companies fail to invest in people before processes.This conversation is built for:Veterans transitioning into businessFirst-time supervisorsFounders trying to scale without losing cultureEntrepreneurs stuck at a growth ceilingYou’ll learn:Why leadership in business is different than in the militaryHow to identify a person’s “leadership ceiling”The hidden danger of authoritarian middle managementWhy communication must be circular, not top-downHow personal growth and professional leadership are inseparableWhy investing in people changes everythingRich also introduces his book Growing Your Own, a practical guide for small business owners who want to build leaders from within instead of importing them.This episode isn’t theory—it’s real-world leadership from the trenches.

In this podcast episode, we engage in a profound conversation with renowned paranormal expert John Zaffis, who shares his extensive experiences and insights into the supernatural realm. Zaffis delves into the complexities of haunted objects, the nuances of paranormal investigations, and the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective amidst the pervasive negativity often associated with the field. We explore the significance of self-awareness and emotional resilience for those embarking on their own paranormal journeys, emphasizing the necessity of grounding oneself amid the chaos of the unknown. Furthermore, we discuss the upcoming New Orleans Paracon, an extraordinary opportunity for enthusiasts to learn from experts across various spiritual practices. Ultimately, this episode serves as both an enlightening exploration of the paranormal and a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of the inexplicable.Join your hosts Jennifer Tally or New Orleans Paranormal Society and Brandon Cooper of Supernatural Ink and PTFX as we bring you our new s how Radio Paranormal. Bringing the spirit of New Orleans with the Spirits of the Appalachian Mountains.. We explore all things strange and paranormal..A captivating exploration of the paranormal realm unfolds as hosts and guests engage in a thought-provoking dialogue that transcends the ordinary. The episode features John Zaffis, a luminary in the paranormal field, who shares his extensive insights and experiences accumulated over decades. The discourse delves into the significance of haunted objects, emphasizing their potential to affect individuals profoundly, both emotionally and spiritually. Zaffis's unique perspective sheds light on the complexities of human interaction with the supernatural, positing that the energy of these objects can resonate with personal experiences, often evoking strong emotional responses. The episode further investigates the psychological ramifications of paranormal encounters, touching upon the concept of a 'paranormal hangover,' wherein individuals may experience lingering emotional turmoil after intense investigations. As they navigate through various themes, including the role of humor in the paranormal, the hosts underscore the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective amidst the chaos of supernatural phenomena, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding of the human condition in relation to the paranormal.Takeaways:In this podcast episode, we explored the intriguing world of paranormal investigations and the stories that accompany them, revealing the complexities of such endeavors.The discussion emphasized the importance of maintaining an open mind when dealing with supernatural phenomena, advocating for a thoughtful approach to understanding these experiences.We discussed the significance of humor in paranormal investigations, suggesting that a light-hearted approach can foster better interactions with the spirits encountered during investigations.The episode highlighted the necessity for aspiring paranormal investigators to educate themselves and respect the boundaries of both the living and the dead, ensuring a responsible approach to their craft.We dove into the significance of haunted objects, particularly Dybbuk boxes, exploring their origins and the energy associated with them, underlining the cultural aspects of paranormal beliefs.Throughout the conversation, we reiterated that personal experiences in the paranormal realm profoundly shape one's understanding and perception of supernatural occurrences.Links referenced in this episode:NewOrleansParacon.comparanormaltaskforce.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:StreamyardRadio ParanormalNew Orleans ParaconAstroc PlazaChevy ChaseBlackhawksRandy QuaidFan FestChicagoParanormal Task ForceParanormal Task Force XPippian CastleKansas Aviation MuseumOld Cow TownHendersonFort LeavenworthShanley HotelEd and Lorraine WarrenConstantineRosemary Ellen GuileySt. MichaelMentioned in this episode:Looking For a Website or a place to grow your PodcastIf you are looking to have a website that completely shares your character or wanting to build a podcast that allows your creativety run wild, Than let us take your ideas to reality.