This Is My Story: Women's Stories of Struggles & Triumphs

In today’s episode, I speak with my high school best friend, Amanda Barham, whose journey growing up in the shadows of her father's schizophrenia has shaped her into the resilient person she is today. From battling severe anxiety to questioning her own salvation for 24 years, Amanda found solace and strength in the transformative power of therapy.

Join us as we delve into the depths of Amanda’s experiences, exploring her own stigma and struggles with her mental health, how therapy became a vessel for God’s healing grace in her life, and how Amanda came to a place of peace and understanding about her salvation. 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

Today, I'm chatting with Jessi Caldwell, my sister-in-law. Jessi wears many hats – she's a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, and a corporate learning executive.

At just 8 months old, Jessi's life took a profound turn as she found her forever home through adoption. At 16 the sudden loss of her mother reshaped the landscape of her world. But Jessi, being the resilient soul she is, pressed on.

In the chapters of her life that followed, Jessi tied the knot and welcomed three beautiful children into her life, including a nonverbal autistic son. Her story is a testament to the twists and turns life throws at us.

Join us as Jessi reflects on her self-identity through the lenses of being adopted, coping as a teenager with the loss of her mother, and the challenges of parenting a nonverbal autistic son. 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

Award-winning entertainer, Katie Deal has performed to sold out houses across the US and Canada. A proud Georgia-born artist, Katie is best known for her authentic country sound. She was the 2016 recipient of the Georgia Country Artist of the Year Award and is an honored member of the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.

​As a recording artist and singer-songwriter, Katie has worked with top Nashville songwriters and artists. She has opened shows for country legends John Conlee, Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye, B.J. Thomas, and Country Family Reunion. Katie was honored to perform with the late country icon, Loretta Lynn, and is also a frequent guest vocalist with the Atlanta Pops Orchestra. ​

As an actress, Katie has been featured in two major motion films and numerous commercials and touring productions. She has also produced her own theatrical concerts which have toured internationally. 

As amazing as Katie’s bio sound–and as talented as she is–Katie has struggled with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt her entire life. The events leading up to August 23, 2022–when she lost both her mom and her marriage within 24 hours of each other–have changed her. She credits therapy with saving her life many times and says “I believe with all my heart in sharing our struggles with each other, I choose publicly, so that others know they are not alone. We all fight internal battles. Why not bring them to light and fight them together?”

Join me as Katie recounts the 24 hours that changed her life, the events that led up to it, and the lessons she has learned in the year since. 

Content Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including domestic abuse and suicidal thoughts. Listener discretion is advised. If you find these subjects distressing, we recommend skipping this episode or listening with caution. Remember, your well-being is important, and support is available. 

DOMESTIC ABUSE HOTLINE:

https://www.thehotline.org/

800.799.SAFE (7233)

SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE:

https://988lifeline.org/

DIAL 988

KATIE’S LINKS:

Website: https://www.katiedeal.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/peachofadeal
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachofadeal/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatieDealMusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdVuV51THCHonTRfaMVae9g?view_as=subscriber
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peachofadeal?lang=en
Imdb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5744151/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

After years of dealing with her own dysfunctional relationship with food and exercise and being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, Cherry Hudnall–now a  Nutrition Coach and Fitness Trainer–knew that in order for her life to look different she was going to have to be willing to do something she had never done before. With God's help she started chasing after the strongest version of herself and her passion now is helping others do the same through her program, Chasing Strong™.

This episode is an inspiring call to embrace strength over size, resilience over restriction. Cherry is on a mission to guide others towards freedom from diets, empowerment after setbacks, and the decision to never surrender, no matter the challenges.

Join me for an authentic conversation about the power of patience, consistency, and the unwavering belief that it's never too late to start "Chasing Strong™." 

CHERRY’S LINKS

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherryhudnall/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cherry-Hudnall/100090647743498/?mibextid=LQQJ4d 

• Work with Cherry: https://linktr.ee/chasingstrong 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

FOLLOW

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

In today's episode, Jennifer Wildeboer shares about religious trauma–including satanic panic, rapture anxiety, and purity culture–her journey through deconstruction, and ultimately her decision to leave the church. We also talk about living with chronic pain from a spinal injury, as well as Jennifer’s more recent diagnosis of autism. 

JENNIFER’S SOCIAL MEDIA

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@snakemeemaw

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

In today's episode, I had the privilege of chatting with childhood friend Tiffany Sumrall and her story is nothing short of inspiring. We delved into the many heartaches she's faced in her life, from the early loss of her twin brother at the tender age of 3 to her quest to find her biological father, through the painful struggles of infertility and a miscarriage, her path to parenthood, the ending of her 18-year-long marriage and more.

Tiffany's story is best summed up in own words: "As many hardships as I've faced, struggles, and difficulties, I've faced as many miracles." 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

Tune in to this episode as we sit down with Rachel Broussard, a mom, wife, and therapist, as she shares her remarkable life journey. From facing the trials of teen pregnancy to making a brave decision to place a child for adoption, Rachel opens up about her path to adoption years later. Join us as we delve into her experiences with interracial marriage, raising biracial children, and the valuable insights she's gained about setting healthy boundaries while parenting a young adult and learning to let go of control. It's an episode full of heart, growth, and authenticity. 

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisismystorypodcast1 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

What if you found out at age 37 that the struggles you've battled your entire life were due to a late diagnosis of ADHD? Join us in a raw and authentic conversation with Nichole Smith, as she invites us into her world of constant movement, hyperactivity, and the challenges of feeling different. Nichole delves into her high school years filled with restless energy, her chaotic college journey of ever-changing majors, and the everyday hurdles of living with ADHD before it was well understood. Nichole candidly shares the strategies she has found helpful in dealing with ADHD and provides comfort and relatable experiences for listeners who face similar struggles. Join us for this inspiring conversation, as Nichole strips away the stigmas and fear often associated with ADHD, sharing insights into living with and embracing her neurodivergent identity.

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

In today's episode, Nichole Smith, a communications coordinator, former English teacher, wife and mom, shares about significant chapters in her life story, chapters where she had to make career sacrifices, face the trials and challenges of teaching in public high schools, and the strength it took for her to leave a teaching position after just three weeks. Nichole's story reminds us that life's journey isn't always a straight line. It's about finding the courage to pivot and listening to that inner voice that guides you.

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

In this episode, host Melissa Teutsch interviews her 17-year-old daughter Juliette about her experiences with frequent moves and the challenges of adapting to changes in her life. They explore the effects of childhood moves on identity formation, Juliette's resistance to change, and fragmented memories associated with different locations. The conversation delves into the themes of change, adaptation, and personal growth, highlighting the importance of self-discovery while traveling.

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

FOLLOW

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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

Mentioned in this episode:

• Classics & Coffee podcast - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/classicsandcoffee 

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/classicsandcoffeepodcast/ 

In this episode Shara Manning shares her inspiring story of overcoming anger, pride and codependency. Shara grew up in a home filled with challenges like alcoholism and hurtful words, but she's here to share her incredible transformation in the most real way possible. She pulls back the curtain, opening up about her past, her family dynamics, and the coping strategies she developed along the way.

It was the passing of her father five years ago that set Shara on a path toward forgiveness and finding inner peace. With the help of counseling, the Celebrate Recovery program, and her unshakeable faith, she summoned the strength to start the healing process.

Shara's journey teaches us about the importance of letting go of destructive coping mechanisms, finding our true selves in faith, and cherishing the simple joys in life. Don't miss out on this heartfelt conversation about resilience, forgiveness, and the quest for inner balance. 

RESOURCES/ORGANIZATIONS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Celebrate Recovery

• Holy Yoga

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

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In this episode we speak with Nahomi, a college student and undocumented immigrant whose tale of resilience and determination promises to inspire and enlighten you. Nahomi's compelling journey from a six-month-old baby arriving in the US to a thriving young woman with a passion for filmmaking is tale of resilience and determination that will inspire and enlighten you.

As a child, Nahomi grew up acutely aware of the limitations imposed by her undocumented status. Through her candid recollections, you'll gain a deep understanding of the realities of living as an undocumented immigrant in the US. She delves into the effects of DACA on her life, offering a comprehensive overview of the program and its implications for her and the half a million other active recipients across the globe. But despite the challenges and obstacles, Nahomi remains unyieldingly hopeful, revealing how she uses her experiences to fuel her passion for filmmaking and drive her to help foster change through her work.

Join us for this riveting conversation that not only gives voice to the often overlooked and misunderstood experiences of immigrants but also celebrates the power of resilience and human spirit.

ORGANIZATIONS TO SUPPORT: 

• United We Dream

• Define American

• Movimiento Cosecha

• National Immigrant Justice Center

• Immigrant Defense Project

• American Immigration Council

• National Immigration Forum

• The Young Center for Immigrants Children’s Rights

• Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law

• Kids in Need of Defense

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

FOLLOW

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisismystorypodcast1 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod 

Introducing “This Is My Story,” a podcast of everyday women sharing their candid stories of the struggles and setbacks that have shaped their lives. In each episode, we’ll bring you deeply personal authentic conversations with women from all walks of life that will inspire and empower you or simply remind you that you’re never alone in your challenges.

Tune in to hear stories that will touch your heart, spark your motivation, and remind you that no matter what life throws your way, you have the power to rewrite your story.

“This Is My Story.” What’s yours?

LINKS

• This Is My Story website: https://www.thisismystorypodcast.com/ 

FOLLOW

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisismystorypodcast1 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismystory.podcast/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisMyStory_Pod