How I Made It Through

# How I Made It Through Podcast## Episode: Finding Strength Through Sensitivity — A Conversation with Karen Hall**Host:** Bernadette Thompson**Guest:** Karen Hall — Publicist, Publisher, Producer at Momentum Media; Editor-in-Chief of *Global Women's Journal* and *Spanish Journal* (partnered with the *Los Angeles Tribune*); Emotional Intelligence Leadership Coach; Host of *The Hero Within* podcast---## Episode SummaryIn this deeply moving conversation, Bernadette sits down with Karen Hall to explore how early trauma, lifelong sensitivity, and a passion for storytelling shaped a career dedicated to elevating the voices of others. Born two and a half months premature, Karen spent her earliest days in an incubator — an experience that left her with preverbal trauma and an unusually sensitive nervous system. Rather than letting those challenges define her, Karen turned them into fuel for a life of writing, coaching, publishing, and connecting people to their own stories.From selling newspapers as a nine-year-old to coaching Fortune-level CEOs, from writing her first book at eleven to producing global broadcasts with hundreds of speakers, Karen's journey is a testament to what becomes possible when we learn to regulate our nervous systems, reframe our limiting beliefs, and meet ourselves with compassion.---## What You'll Hear in This Episode- How being born prematurely shaped Karen's lifelong journey with anxiety, sensitivity, and the drive to understand the nervous system- Why Karen started writing at age nine — and how journalism became her first path to healing through storytelling- The surprising way her podcast, *The Hero Within*, reached the top 3% globally within three months with no advertising- How Karen went from terrified-to-speak to a TED-style stage in New York with no notes — and what that moment taught her about authentic connection- The accidental birth of her coaching business when sales colleagues started asking, "How are you not afraid to cold call?"- Why every limiting belief, no matter how it shows up, traces back to a wound from the past- How emotional intelligence and co-regulation changed the way she coaches CEOs (one client called her a "CEO whisperer")- The launch of *Global Women's Journal* and the Spanish-language *Latin Journal* — and why creating platforms for underrepresented voices matters- The spiritual dimension of the work: Marianne Williamson's influence, ancestral connection, and seeing ourselves as beings of love- Why Karen reframed "it took me too long to learn this" into "now I have the empathy to help others"---## Key Takeaways**On trauma and the nervous system:** Karen shares how understanding preverbal trauma — trauma that happens before we have words — helped her make sense of why her brain defaulted so easily to fear. Learning to regulate her nervous system became a lifelong practice, and eventually the foundation of her coaching work.**On sensitivity as a strength:** Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) and an empath is genetic and real — and it's a gift, not a flaw. The work is learning to channel that sensitivity outward in service of others rather than letting it pull us inward.**On the universal struggle:** Whether someone is a CEO, a first-time author, or a parent, the same question surfaces when we hit a wall: *What's wrong with me?* Karen teaches that nothing is wrong — the amygdala has simply hijacked the prefrontal cortex, and the way back is through self-compassion.**On storytelling:** Everyone has a story, and someone out there needs to hear yours. Platforms, podcasts, and publications matter because they break isolation and remind people they are not alone.**On the spiritual dimension:** When we see ourselves — and others — as beings of love with unmet needs, compassion and forgiveness become natural. Unloving behavior is simply a forgetting.---## Memorable Moments- Karen's mother role-playing newspaper sales pitches with her at age nine — a practice Karen still uses today with her husband and kids before big talks- The New York stage moment where Karen threw away her notes and spoke from the heart for the first time- Being nicknamed "the queen of empathy" by her coaching clients- The realization that her nervous system work gives her something polished coaches without lived experience can't offer: authentic empathy for how long healing actually takes- Bernadette and Karen's shared reflection on ancestors visiting them during their most transformative seasons---## About the GuestKaren Hall is an emotional intelligence leadership coach, publisher, and broadcast producer who has built her life's work around elevating women's voices and helping leaders regulate their nervous systems so they can lead with connection instead of control. She is the host of *The Hero Within* podcast, Editor-in-Chief of *Global Women's Journal* and the Spanish-language *Latin Journal* (in partnership with the *Los Angeles Tribune*), and a mentor to speakers, authors, and CEOs. She has also served for a decade in volunteer ministry work with Native American communities on the Fort Apache and Navajo reservations in Arizona.---## Connect with Karen Hall- **LinkedIn:** Search for "Karen Hall — Queen of Empathy" (a title given to her by her clients)- Karen welcomes connection and would love to hear your story---## Connect with the HostBernadette Thompson is the host of the *How I Made It Through* podcast, an author, and a guide who helps people explore their ancestry and intergenerational stories as part of their healing journey. After losing her husband to alcoholism eight years ago, Bernadette reinvented herself and now helps others navigate grief, transformation, and the spiritual dimensions of coming home to who they truly are. www.tellmeourstory.com---## A Closing Thought*"When you hear stories like Bernadette's guests, you gain hope — because you know: I can make it through too. She did it. He did it. I can do it. And you can do it too."* — Karen Hall---*If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, and subscribe to the* How I Made It Through *podcast for more conversations with people who have walked through the fire and come out with wisdom to share.*

Journey Beyond: Vinney Todd Tolman's Near-Death Experience,“The Miraculous Journey from Body Bag to Heaven and Back”In this extraordinary episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Vinney Todd Tolman, who shares his profound near-death experience and the life-altering insights he gained from it. At the age of 25, Vinney was pronounced dead and placed in a body bag, only to miraculously return to life nearly an hour later. His journey, as detailed in his book "The Light After Death," unveils the incredible encounters and lessons he learned during his time beyond the veil. From meeting his spiritual guide, Drake, to experiencing the interconnectedness of all things, Vinney's story is a testament to the power of love, authenticity, and the eternal nature of the soul. This episode is a deep dive into the mysteries of life and death, and the transformative power of spiritual awakening.- Vinney Todd Tolman's book: The Light After Death, Vincent Todd Tolman with Lynn Taylor (available at Amazon)- Learn more about near-death experiences: International Association of Near Death Studies - IANDS.org- Connect with Vinney at Living God's Light : www. livinggodslight.orgConnect with Bernadette ThompsonTell Me Our Story, Ancestral Healing :  www.tellmeourstory.comAlso at Ancestral Healing Center:[email protected] **Chapter Markers:**- **[00:00] Introduction**- Bernadette Thompson introduces the episode and guest, Vinney Todd Tolman.- **[03:00] The Fateful Day in 2003**- Vinney recounts the events leading up to his near-death experience.- **[06:00] The Overdose and Out-of-Body Experience**- Vinney describes the overdose incident and his initial out-of-body experience.- **[09:00] The Journey Begins**- Vinney watches events unfold from above and hears the thoughts of those around him.- **[12:00] The Rookie Medic's Intuition**- A rookie medic's intuition saves Vinney's life, leading to his miraculous revival.- **[15:00] Meeting the Guide, Drake**- Vinney meets his spiritual guide, Drake, and begins to learn profound lessons.- **[18:00] Lessons in Authenticity and Love**- Drake teaches Vinney about the importance of authenticity and love.- **[21:00] The Nature of Earth School**- Vinney learns about the purpose of life on Earth and the illusion of time.- **[24:00] The Power of Prejudice and Unity**- Vinney confronts his own prejudices and learns about the interconnectedness of all life.- **[27:00] The Vision of Heaven**- Vinney describes his experience of heaven and the overwhelming love he felt there.- **[30:00] The Retu:rn to Earth**- Vinney's brother's prayer brings him back to life, and he reflects on his journey.- **[33:00] A Miraculous Confirmation**- Vinney discovers the identity of his guide, Drake, and finds validation in his experience.- **[36:00] Embracing the Experience**- Vinney discusses the impact of his experience on his life and mental health.**Resources:****Call-to-Action:**If Vinney's story resonated with you, please consider sharing this episode with friends and family who might find inspiration in his journey. Don't forget to subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more incredible stories of resilience and transformation. Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to let us know what you think!

Childhood Trauma, Suicide Attempt, Profound Grief and Loss, and a Remarkable career with Lululemon, Gap, and Levi Strauss & Co. in-between. In this deeply moving episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Kathryn Henry, a spiritual seeker and business leader whose life journey is a testament to the power of resilience and transformation. Through raw personal storytelling,  Kathryn shares her incredible story of overcoming childhood trauma, navigating the profound grief of losing her wife, Lisa, to cancer, and ultimately finding a path to self-realization and spiritual awakening.Kathryn's story is one of tragedy and triumph, illustrating how life's most challenging moments can lead to profound personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. She recounts her early struggles with childhood abuse, her journey through a Christian home, and the pivotal moments that shaped her understanding of spirituality. Kathryn also shares how she found solace and guidance in spiritual practices, leading her to a successful career in the corporate world and beyond.Throughout the episode, Kathryn and Bernadette explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring connections we share with those who have passed on. Kathryn's experiences with signs from Lisa after her passing offer a powerful testament to the spiritual connections that transcend the physical world.Join us for an inspiring conversation that delves into the depths of human resilience, the beauty of spiritual awakening, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life's challenges.Connect with Kathryn Henry: www.kathrynhenry.comKathryn's Book: “A Dime to Say I Love You ” Available at amazon : https://www.amazon.com/Dime-Say-Love-You-Spiritual/dp/B0F787W89LConnect with Bernadette: [email protected]**Chapter Markers:**- **[00:00] Introduction**- Bernadette introduces the podcast and welcomes Kathryn Henry, highlighting her background and achievements.- **[03:00] Kathryn's Early Life and Challenges**- Kathryn shares her experiences with childhood abuse and her time in a Christian home, setting the stage for her spiritual journey.- **[06:00] Spiritual Awakening and Personal Growth**- Discussion on how Kathryn's spiritual journey began, exploring different belief systems and finding tools for healing.- **[09:00] Love and Loss: Kathryn's Relationship with Lisa**- Kathryn talks about meeting Lisa, their life together, and the impact of Lisa's cancer diagnosis.- **[12:00] Coping with Grief and Finding Spiritual Connections**- Kathryn describes the spiritual connections she maintains with Lisa after her passing and the significance of signs and messages.- **[15:00] Overcoming Career Challenges and Finding Success**- Kathryn shares her unconventional path to a successful career and the lessons learned along the way.- **[18:00] Embracing Service and Helping Others**- Discussion on Kathryn's current endeavors, including mentoring and sound healing, and her commitment to service.**Resources:**- Kathryn Henry's Book: "A Dime to Say I Love You"- Information on sound healing and energy healing practices- Meditation and spiritual study resources**Call-to-Action:**Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "How I Made It Through." If Kathryn's story inspired you, please share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from her insights. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories of resilience and transformation. Connect with us on social media to join the conversation and stay updated on future episodes. If you have a story you'd like to share or feedback on this episode, reach out to us through our website. Your journey matters, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

**Episode Title:** What if the Darkest Moment of Your Life Became the Doorway to the Divine? Heather VandermeydenThree months in ICU, Twenty Near-Death Experiences; The Remarkable story of survival and awakeningConnect with Heather Vandermeyden: https://heathervandermeyden.com/ She is the author of “ Miracles from the Other Side” Connect with Bernadette Thompson: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/ - International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)- Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson. “Life After Life” by Dr. Raymond Moody- EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)In this profound and moving episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson welcomes Heather Vandermeyden, whose life journey took a remarkable turn through a series of near-death experiences (NDEs). Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Heather's deep connection to nature and spirituality guided her through a life-altering health crisis. At the age of 19, Heather was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis, leading to a series of critical medical emergencies and multiple surgeries. During these harrowing experiences, Heather encountered profound spiritual realms and divine love that transformed her understanding of life and death. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the enduring connection between this world and the next. Heather's NDEs provided her with insights into the afterlife, consciousness, and the healing power of love and prayer. This episode offers comfort and hope to anyone facing illness or supporting a loved one through a health crisis. Heather's gentle and calming recounting of her experiences provides a unique perspective on the intersection of life, death, and spirituality.**Chapter Markers:**- **[00:00] Introduction**- Bernadette introduces Heather Vandermeyden and sets the stage for the conversation about her near-death experiences.- **[03:00] Heather's Early Life and Diagnosis**- Heather shares her background and the onset of her illness, leading to her first NDE.- **[06:00] The First Near-Death Experience**- Heather describes her initial encounter with the divine voice and the beginning of her spiritual journey.- **[09:00] Medical Crisis and Spiritual Awakening**- Details of Heather's critical health condition and the profound spiritual experiences during her surgeries.- **[12:00] The Realm of Love and Healing**- Heather recounts her experiences in a realm of immense love and healing, meeting ancestors and spiritual guides.- **[15:00] The Library of Knowledge**- A visit to a mystical library where Heather encountered ancient wisdom.- **[18:00] Angels and Divine Guidance**- Heather's interactions with guardian angels and their role in her healing journey.- **[21:00] The Power of Prayer and Faith**- Insights into how prayer and faith contributed to Heather's survival and healing.- **[24:00] Validations and Lessons Learned**- Heather discusses the validations of her experiences and the lessons she has learned about life and the afterlife.**Resources:**- International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)- Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson- EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)**Call-to-Action:**If Heather's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing about the healing power of love and the existence of life beyond our earthly experience. Subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more inspiring stories of transformation and resilience. Don't forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover these powerful narratives. Join our community on social media to continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals.

**This Episode:  “A Canary in the Coal Mine” Unraveling Ancestral Trauma With Ruschelle Khanna LCSWIn this incredible episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Ruschelle Khanna, who shares her personal journey of healing from a severe health crisis that led her to uncover the roots of chronic illness in inherited trauma. As family business consultant and psychotherapist, she has helped others to explore the profound impact of generational and ancestral trauma on our lives.Together, Bernadette and Ruschelle delve into the stories and patterns passed down through generations, discussing how these narratives shape our behavior and relationships. They also touch on the spiritual aspects of ancestral connections and how engaging with these energies can lead to profound healing and understanding. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of mental health, spirituality, and family lineage.**Resources:**- **Ruschelle Khanna's Book:** "Inherited Trauma and Family Love: A Guide to Better Relationships and Building a Lasting Legacy"- **Ancestral Healing Center:** Upcoming resource center for community and education on ancestral healing.- **Family Constellations Therapy:** Explore this therapeutic approach to understanding family systems.Connect with Ruschelle:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruschelle-khanna-lifestyle-for-legacy/https://www.lifestyleforlegacy.com/Find Bernadette at:  https://www.tellmeourstory.com/- **Subscribe and Share:** If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "How I Made It Through" and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from understanding the impact of ancestral trauma.- **Join the Community:** Stay tuned for more information on the Ancestral Healing Center and how you can get involved in upcoming courses and events.- **Connect with Us:** Follow Bernadette Thompson and Ruschelle Khanna on social media for updates and insights on ancestral healing and personal growth. This episode offers a deep dive into the transformative power of understanding our ancestral stories and the healing potential that lies within them. Join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment!**Chapter Markers:**- **[0:00] Introduction to Ruschelle Khanna**- Bernadette introduces her guest, Ruschelle Khanna, and discusses her work as a family business consultant and psychotherapist focusing on inherited trauma.- **[3:00] Ruschelle's Personal Journey**- Ruschelle shares her personal health crisis that led to her spiritual awakening and understanding of ancestral trauma.- **[6:00] The Impact of Ancestral Stories**- Discussion on how family stories and inherited trauma manifest in our lives and the importance of recognizing these patterns.- **[9:00] Exploring Ancestral Healing**- Ruschelle explains how she integrates ancestral healing into her practice and the transformative effects it can have on individuals and families.- **[12:00] Spiritual Awakening and Ancestral Connections**- Bernadette and Ruschelle discuss their personal experiences with spiritual awakenings and the role of ancestors in guiding and healing.- **[15:00] Patterns of Behavior and Family Dynamics**- The conversation turns to how inherited trauma influences family dynamics and individual behaviors, and ways to address these patterns.- **[18:00] The Role of Ancestral Stories in Healing**- Ruschelle highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in reshaping family narratives and breaking cycles of trauma.- **[21:00] Introducing the Ancestral Healing Center**- Ruschelle shares exciting details about the upcoming Ancestral Healing Center, a collaborative project aimed at educating and supporting individuals on their healing journeys.