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Sara King – Award Winning Broadway Performer
In today’s episode we sit down with the lovely Ovation Award Winning Broadway Performer Sara King, who is a fierce survivor of trauma in many forms. We talk about what it was like to play Cynthia Weil on Broadway’s Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Carole seeing the show in full disguise. Outside of her performance career, we learn the heartbreaking story of Sara losing her beloved father to a pulmonary embolism when she was young, her and her siblings watching how her mom navigated the experience and then discovering her mother had a vicious form of cancer, that took her life far too quickly. Following the loss of her parents, many more members of her family began to pass away and the group discusses the effects of compounded grief and how it changes you, for better and worse. Laura and Sara bond over their shared experience of losing so many loved ones, as well as divorce and how it all can build resilience and fortitude, but also give you have a deeper appreciation for life. While the three of them get into some very heavy topics, everyone comes away with a deeper understanding of how hardship can ultimately help you stop and smell the roses! We had such a wonderful time talking to Sara and we know so many people will benefit from hearing her story. For anyone who has experienced loss or knows anyone who has, this is definitely an episode you do not want to miss!
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)
'Bereavement Overload: Coping with Cumulative Grief and Multiple Losses'
'Coping With Separation And Divorce'
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46. Rep. Spencer Wetmore – Representative in the SC State House, Prosecutor, and owner of Wetmore Law Firm
01:15:56Laura and Todd sit down with longtime friend Spencer Wetmore, a South Carolina House Representative, where she discusses her background in law and government service, including her family's involvement with the Shannon Faulkner case. She shares her journey from practicing law to getting involved in politics and running for office. Wetmore also talks about her viral videos on TikTok where she passionately speaks about women's reproductive rights. She discusses the recent Supreme Court decision upholding a six-week abortion ban in South Carolina and the potential impact on women. Wetmore criticizes the profit-driven motivations behind these restrictive abortion laws and emphasizes the need for change in public opinion to bring about progress. Wetmore also discusses the trauma that is being mishandled by our government in regards to victims of incest and rape. Key Takeaways:She ran for office after working in government service and wanting to make a difference on the state level.The recent Supreme Court decision upholding a six-week abortion ban in South Carolina is a setback for women's rights and could have traumatic effects on women.Wetmore's experience with the Shannon Faulkner case and her own personal experiences have shaped her passion for women's issues and reproductive rights.National organizations, such as National Right to Life and Alliance Defending Freedom, play a significant role in promoting and drafting restrictive abortion laws.Progress can be made by supporting national organizations fighting for reproductive rights and sharing the stories of those affected by these laws.Links:https://spencerwetmore.comWebsite - https://spencerwetmore.comLaw Firm Website: https://wetmorelawfirm.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/SpencerWetmoreforSChouse/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJW1bj6cEgwTwitter – https://twitter.com/RepWetmoreAbuse HotlineCheck out Next Page at www.nextpagepodcast.comFollow us on Instagram @nextpagepodcast45. J.K Emezi - Recovered Porn Addict, a Sex & Pornography Addiction Recovery Coach, Behavioral Specialist and CEO of Elevated Recovery
01:07:46This week, Laura and Todd sit down with J.K Emezi who shares his personal journey of overcoming a pornography addiction and discusses the impact of early exposure to explicit content. He explains the concept of "arousal templates" and how they shape our sexual behaviors. J.K also highlights the importance of self-awareness in the "rebooting" process and the need to redefine one's self-image. He emphasizes that recovery is about hitting the reset button and creating an ideal life after overcoming the addiction.J.K emphasizes the importance of seeking help and setting the intention to speak to somebody about the addiction. He encourages individuals to overcome the arguments and excuses that may arise in their minds and take the first step towards recovery. By shedding light on the shame associated with addiction, individuals can start listening to more material, talking to different people, and seeking the support they need.Key Takeaways:Seek help and set the intention to speak to somebody about the addiction.Shed light on the shame associated with addiction to start the recovery process.Living each day as if it's the last and going all out in everything is more exciting than going back to the past.Links:https://elevatedrecovery.org/Website - https://elevatedrecovery.org/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jkemezi1YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbqaPKeiNW6R6LECHwQkRugTwitter – https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FRebootPornAbuse HotlineCheck out Next Page at www.nextpagepodcast.comFollow us on Instagram @nextpagepodcast44. Laura Lux - Author of The Explosive Memoir "Glitter and Glass" and Domestic & Parental Abuse Survivor
01:06:40Laura and Todd sit down and speak to author and domestic and parental abuse survivor, Laura Lux. Laura Lux shares her personal journey of navigating through failed marriages and mental disorders to the complexities of theoretical polyamory and attempted murder. She discusses her experiences of being sent away to a mental hospital as a teen, becoming a young mother, and her marriages to emotionally abusive partners. Despite the challenges, she maintains her belief in love and the importance of self-reflection. Laura emphasizes the significance of taking one's time, making conscious decisions, and not settling for mediocrity or misery in relationships. She encourages listeners to redefine their lives and not be defined by others' opinions or fear of failure.Key Takeaways:Take your time, make conscious choices, and don't settle for mediocrity or misery in relationships.Redefine your life and don't let others define you or fear being seen as a failure.It's never too late to make a change and create a new chapter in your life.Links:https://www.glitterandglassbook.com/Website - https://www.glitterandglassbook.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glitterandglassbook/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/glitterandglassbookAbuse HotlineCheck out Next Page at www.nextpagepodcast.comFollow us on Instagram @nextpagepodcast43. Michael Unbroken - Trauma Survivor, Author and Trauma Coach
53:49In this week's episode on Next Page, Laura and Todd sit down with Michael Unbroken, who shares his personal journey of overcoming a traumatic childhood marked by abuse, addiction, and homelessness. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's own life and shares his "mirror moment" when he decided to stop being a victim and become the hero of his own story. Michael also discusses the power of mindset and the role it plays in overcoming trauma. He encourages listeners to give themselves permission to dream of a better life and to take small steps towards that vision. He also highlights the importance of finding community and support in the healing process.He emphasizes the need to take responsibility for one's own actions and choices, including what one consumes and the thoughts one entertains. Michael also highlights the impact of societal indoctrination on anxiety, particularly the pressure to conform to societal expectations and the lack of emphasis on pursuing one's dreams and passions. He further explores the concept of trust in oneself and the fear of being authentic. He encourages listeners to trust themselves and embrace their true selves, despite the fear of judgment and rejection. Michael emphasizes that living authentically and pursuing one's dreams is the key to a fulfilling life.Key Takeaways:Childhood trauma can have a profound impact on a person's life, but it is possible to overcome and heal.Taking responsibility for one's own life is crucial in the healing process.Mindset plays a significant role in overcoming trauma.Giving oneself permission to dream of a better life and taking small steps towards that vision is essential.Finding community and support is crucial in the healing process.Trusting oneself is essential for personal growth and authenticity.Living authentically and pursuing one's dreams is the key to a fulfilling life.Links:https://www.thinkunbroken.com/Website - https://www.thinkunbroken.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MichaelUnbrokenYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC95YX4cZdz39HHIaLZYFsGATwitter – https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FthinkunbrokenAbuse HotlineCheck out Next Page at www.nextpagepodcast.comFollow us on Instagram @nextpagepodcast42. Erin Riley - Narcissistic Abuse Survivor and Author of “A Dark Force - 20 Years With a Covert Narcissist”
01:22:03In this week's episode of Next Page, Laura and Todd sit down with Erin Riley, survivor of narcissistic abuse and author of "A Dark Force: 20 Years with a Covert Narcissist." Through her gripping and candid narrative, Erin unveils her two-decade journey trapped in a destructive relationship with a covert narcissist. Erin illuminates us about the concealed nature of narcissistic abuse and the profound toll it took on her mental and physical wellbeing. Riley dives deep into the character of a covert narcissist, a deceptively kind and agreeable individual who hides a lack of empathy and manipulative behavior behind a well-crafted facade. She speaks on her childhood and how a pattern of generational trauma and emotional neglect led her to develop a hyper-vigilant personality, a trait that unknowingly set her up for manipulative abuse.Erin's courageous story continues with her rocky marriage to Fabio, the covert narcissist whose quiet and helpful demeanor initially drew her in. As she navigates through the red flags of Fabio's passive-aggressive behavior, blame-shifting, and avoidance, Erin slowly starts to uncover the distressing truth. When the abuse reaches a breaking point, Erin's desperate attempt to save her relationship ends in betrayal when Fabio brings another woman to Panama. This heart-wrenching experience, along with years of physical and mental strain, initiates her journey to recovery. Erin’s resilience shines through her process of self-reflection, therapy, and acceptance of her codependent tendencies, which eventually leads her to break free from the cycle of abuse. Her invaluable insights serve as a stark warning and beacon of hope for others entangled in narcissistic abuse, emphasizing that recovery, though challenging, is possible with self-compassion, boundary setting, and supportive resources like Erin’s memoir and advocacy work. Episode 42 with Erin Riley is NOT one to miss!Key Takeaways:Growing up in a dysfunctional family can set you up to be vulnerable to toxic relationships.Covert narcissists are sneaky and manipulative, often projecting their own self-loathing onto others.Trust your gut and recognize red flags in a relationship, such as passive-aggressive behavior and blame-shifting.Codependency can make it difficult to leave a toxic relationship, but it's important to prioritize your own well-being.Healing from narcissistic abuse involves recognizing your own worth, setting boundaries, and seeking support from others.Links:Erin Riley's Book - "A Dark Force - 20 Years With a Covert NarcissistWebsite - https://www.erinriley.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/a_dark_force/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adarkforcebookGoodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75258085-a-dark-forceLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinjriley/More Information about Covert NarcissismAbuse Hotline41. Ed Cohen - Author, Counselor, Professor, and Advocate for Collaborative Care and Holistic Healing.
01:13:32Ed Cohen is an author, counselor, professor, and advocate for collaborative care and holistic healing. With a PhD in Modern thought from Stanford, Ed has been an award-winning professor of women's, gender and sexuality studies at Rutgers University for the last three decades. He draws on his personal experience with Crohn's disease to explore how Western medicine's focus on science has affected medical practitioners and their patients. In this interview, Ed discusses his journey to healing and how he redefined his relationship with medicine. He emphasizes the importance of caring collaboration in a society that is hyper-focused on individualism. He also shares his thoughts on the history of medicine, the power of language, and the value of reframing our thinking. Additionally, he talks about the impact of the pandemic on our understanding of interconnectedness and toxic individualism. Ed Cohen's experience with Crohn's disease and his insights into the importance of caring collaboration in a society that is hyper-focused on individualism offer a fresh perspective on how we can approach healthcare and healing. By valuing collaborative care and reframing our thinking, we can work towards a more collective and holistic approach to healthcare. Check out Ed's book, "Learning to Heal," and his counseling practice, the Healing Council, to learn more about his approach to healing. Additionally, his thoughts on the pandemic and toxic individualism offer valuable insights into how we can move forward towards a more interconnected and healing world.About Dr. CohenEd's Book "On Learning to Heal: What Modern Medicine Doesn't Know"Ed's Book A Body Worth Defending: Immunity, Biopolitics, and the Apotheosis of the Modern BodyEd's Counseling Center - Healing Counsel: https://healingcounsel.com/about-professor-ed-cohen/Ed at RutgersRutgers University: https://www.rutgers.edu/40. L Morgan Lee - Trailblazing Tony Nominated Actress, Singer and Transgender Advocate
01:11:37Laura and Todd celebrate Pride Month with an inspiring interview with living legend L Morgan Lee, the first openly transgender actor to be nominated for a Tony Award for her featured role in "A Strange Loop.” As a seasoned performer with over two decades of experience on various stages, Lee shares her remarkable journey and unwavering advocacy for transgender representation in the arts and invites us into her deeply personal journey of self-discovery and resilience. Spending years performing as a boy before a transformative encounter with a trans person and non-binary individuals sparked deep self-reflection on gender and identity, she finally decided to "come out" as the woman she always knew she was. Lee illuminates her profound realization of her true self and emphasizes that everyone is undergoing a transition – a journey of self-love and self-acceptance. L Morgan also shares with us how her transition has not only reshaped her friendships but also strengthened her relationship with her mother and most importantly, herself. Speaking candidly about the realities and fears of dating as a trans woman, including the tragic instances of violence she experienced, Lee firmly debunks the harmful stereotype that trans women are immune to abuse. In this episode, Lee also delves into the critical discussion of gender-affirming care for children, with Lee advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes mental health and enables children to make informed decisions about their gender identities at their own pace. In this remarkable interview, L Morgan passionately expresses her aspiration to serve as a beacon of representation in the entertainment industry, urging everyone to embrace their true selves and calling for increased visibility and inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community. Don't miss out on this inspiring journey of self-acceptance, advocacy for trans rights, and a rallying call for love.Links for L Morgan Lee: L Morgan on WikipediaL Morgan on IMBDL Morgan Lee Interview on TodayL Morgan Lee’s OfficialWebsiteDaily News InterviewL Morgan on InstagramL Morgan on TwitterL Morgan on Facebook39. Joe Pardavila - Communications Expert, Radio and Podcast Host, and Author of The Book "Good Listen"
01:12:29This week we sit down with communication expert, podcaster for Forbes Books, NYC Radio Personality and Author of the book “Good Listen,” Joe Pardavila. We talk about the importance of listening, communicating effectively, empathy and putting in the work to maintain good relationships. In this uplifting episode with the former smooth talking radio host, we discuss what it was like being a radio DJ in NYC during 9/11, starting a new job days before the pandemic hit, and the creation of the podcast “Uncertain Times” at Forbes Books, a podcast focused on how business leaders and entrepreneurs were making it through the uncertainty of COVID. We learn how his trivia prowess landed him radio time, why his podcast was therapeutic for the business owners and how his new book can you help fine tune your communications skills to make you more empathetic, curious and generally a better human being, We also learn why living your life at an 11 is key and the benefits of putting our phones away and being still. We laughed a lot in this one and think everyone can benefit form Joe’s sound advice! So be sure not to miss Episode 39 with Joe Pardavila. Links:Joe’s Book Good ListenJoe’s IMBDJoe’s LinktreeJoe’s LinkedInJoe’s Forbes Books Audio PodcastPage Six on Joe Meeting Jennifer Aniston Joe’s Uncertain Times Podcast38. Terry Tucker - Cancer Warrior, Motivational Speaker, Author and International Podcast Guest
01:19:16In this week’s episode, we are absolutely awestruck by the story of the incredible Terry Tucker – a Cancer Warrior, Motivational Speaker, Author and International Podcast guest. We can't get over how absolutely inspiring Terry's story is and his past and continued efforts to motivate and help others. In this episode we learn about how he continues to lead "an uncommon and extraordinary life," his time at The Citadel in Laura and Todd’s hometown of Charleston, SC, his stint at Wendy’s as a marketing exec and his time in law enforcement as an undercover narcotics officer and SWAT hostage negotiator (including the craziest experiences on the job). We learn all about the lesson’s Terry learned from taking care of his dad and grandmother while they were dying of cancer, how losing a limb made him realize he was so much more than the sum of his parts, his own ongoing battle with a rare form of melanoma and the 4 truths that he follows to help him through his treatment. In this episode he also shares his advice for those who have received a diagnosis (including advice for their loved ones), what inspired him to become a motivational speaker and author, tapping in to our own resilience, and how to stop living in fear and start living with love. We are still reeling about what a truly amazing person Terry is and how lucky we were to speak with him. Episode 38 with Terry Tucker, Author of Sustainable Excellence: Ten Principles To Leading Your Uncommon And Extraordinary Life is certainly not one to miss!Terry’s WebsiteTerry’s Book: Sustainable Excellence Ten Principles to Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary LifeLinkedinInstagramBIO: Terry Tucker is a motivational speaker, author, and international podcast guest on the topics of motivation, mindset, and self-development. He has a business administration degree from The Citadel (where he played NCAA Division I college basketball) and a master’s degree from Boston University. In his professional career, Terry has been a marketing executive, a hospital administrator, a SWAT Team Hostage Negotiator, a high school basketball coach, a business owner, a motivational speaker, and for the past eleven years, a cancer warrior (which has resulted in the amputation of his foot in 2018 and his leg in 2020). He is the author of the book, Sustainable Excellence, Ten Principles To Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary Life. Terry has also been featured in Authority, Thrive Global, and Human Capital Leadership magazines.