Inspiring Journeys

In this inspiring episode of Inspiring Journeys, Paul Stroessner sits down with Jackie Durnin, founder of Hinterland Health Retreat, to explore her journey from trauma to healing and her groundbreaking work in mental health. Jackie shares the experiences that led her to become a counselor and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner, opening up about how her own challenges and traumas shaped her path toward helping others. Jackie introduces us to the unique modalities offered at Hinterland Health Retreat, where she combines advanced neuro-technology with holistic therapies for a truly transformative healing experience. Together, Paul and Jackie dive into powerful approaches for mental well-being, including EFT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and the importance of the mind-body-spirit connection in achieving lasting health. Whether you’re new to these modalities or curious about mental health innovation, this episode will inspire you to consider new ways to approach healing and self-care. Key Takeaways: Jackie’s journey from personal trauma to a career in counseling and EFT Introduction to the innovative therapies at Hinterland Health Retreat The power of EFT, EMDR, and neuro-technology in mental health recovery Exploring the vital role of mind-body-spirit connection in holistic healing This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Michael McCarthy In Memory of Michael Shane McCarthy February 19, 1982 – August 12, 2021 Navy Corpsman Marines 2/7 Weapons Unit Afghanistan “Michael was the most amazing human.  He never considered himself, always putting the needs of the less fortunate before his own.  He often gave the shirt off his own back.  (As his mother, it got expensive replacing them all!)  He was a phenomenal artist, loved gardening and loved all of humanity.  He was extremely intelligent and that fact caused him some suffering during his lifetime.   He had helped one of the Afghan interpreters finish medical school after his mother passed away.  Then he was working to bring this interpreter to the US from Afghanistan with his wife and 4 children.  When the Taliban took Kabul, he lost hope of helping them and took his own life. There were quite a few interpreters he was trying to help. But this family meant so much to him. He had done very well for a while.  The PTSD really didn’t show for about 5 years really.  But then things turned.  I am quite certain he had a traumatic brain injury as well.  He moved out to LA 7 years ago, lived as a homeless man for about 4 years, became addicted to street drugs…even went to jail for a few months.  He finally accepted that he needed help and was working with the VA in LA.  They got him an apartment through subsidized housing that he loved and a monthly income.  They helped him with medical and dental issues too.  We really thought he had turned the corner.  It was a shock to all of us when he took his own life.  He had been making so many plans with so many people.  We spend the first week just sending screenshots and emails to each other from him…even from the day before his suicide.  None of us saw anything that gave us any concern.  He was even starting a foundation with the interpreter…had just finished building the website and getting 501C3 status and a friend of his had made the foundation logo for him.” Shared by his mother, Vicki  Places he called home: Rhode Island and California Resting Place: The Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, RI ----------------------------------------------------------- You can contact Jackie through the Hinterland Health Resort web site: https://hinterlandhealthretreat.com/   You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

Today we welcome Adriana Ferns back to the show! Adriana recently published the book, How to Find a Fitness Trainer (which yours truly edited). We talk about the importance of seeking help, how to get started on your fitness journey, building trust, trainer qualifications and continuing education, and recognizing red flags which will help you avoid "The Skeeze". We also talk about ways Adriana makes working out enjoyable so you look forward to staying consistent, and setting big goals and having accountability. If you have any questions about going to the gym, and finding a personal trainer, this is the episode and book for you! Even if you are not interested in that, this is still a fun and inspiring conversation!   ----------------------------------------------------------- This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: David Yee “David was a Navy veteran of 20 years. He was born in Reno, Nevada and made his childhood home in Sparks, Nevada. He always made friends easily. When he was young, our neighborhood had a lot of children – he was always the oldest, and the neighborhood kids looked up to him. He was an avid UNR (University of Reno) Wolfpack fan and attended as many games as he could. He was a father of 5, but his struggle with PTSD was hard on his relationships and ended in either divorce or just a split up. He has 3 other brothers that served in the Navy also. His youngest brother is currently a lieutenant serving as an air traffic controller. David loved to hunt and fish and would take his eldest to hunt also. After retiring from the Navy, David struggled with mental issues and at one time turned away from me as he felt I was prying too much into his business. I only wanted him to get help. He never felt he had a problem. He estranged himself from quite a few people and didn’t realize it was due to the issues he was struggling with. He had just gotten remarried 1 ½ years ago and had a new baby that just turned a year old in November. She will never know her dad which is sad because when he was having good days, he could be the best dad ever. I will miss his laughter and smile.” Shared by his mother, Janis States he called home: Virginia, California and Nevada Final Rest: Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley, Nevada ---------------------------------------------------------- You can find Adriana's book, How to Find a Fitness Trainer, on Amazon. And you can also get Adriana's first book, Fitness to Freedom   You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

On October 27, 2024, I ran the Marine Corps Marathon. Everything did not go as planned. It was an unforgettable journey filled with highs, lows, and a lot of lessons learned. Whether you’re a runner, a dreamer, or someone working toward any goal, this episode is for you. If you’ve ever had a big goal that didn’t go the way you hoped, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly what I’ll be diving into today. I’ll take you through the race, my preparation, what went right, what went wrong, and why I’m fired up for next year. Plus, I’ll share some amazing highlights from my D.C. trip, including a little throwback to my inner GenX nerd!   You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

As many of you know, I dedicate each episode to a veteran from 22 Too Many. Today, will be a slight exception as the entire episode will be dedicated to 22 Too Many! I didn't want to single out any one hero.  So, I am honored to have Keri Jacobs, co-founder of 22 Too Many, with us. Keri’s mission is deeply personal and incredibly impactful—through 22 Too Many, she works tirelessly to honor and remember military members lost to suicide or PTSD-related causes. On this episode, Keri tells us how 22 Too Many was formed and is growing. We discuss the challenges military veterans face, the services that 22 Too Many provides, as well as the other organizations who 22 Too Many teams up with to help so many people. Here are some of the links we discussed: Website https://22toomany.org/ Heroes (same website) https://22toomany.org/hero-search-results/   https://www.facebook.com/22TooMany/   You may also donate through the following link https://secure.givelively.org/donate/22-too-many-inc   Operation Creekside (22 Too Many's partner for Memorial Benches) https://www.operationcreekside.org/   ---------------------------------------------------------- You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

Originally Released: October 27, 2021 Caroline and Claire join Del and I to talk all about Halloween. This is a huge range of topics, including music, movies, and candy, as well as Halloween memories. This was a lot of fun, and I hope you enjoy! What are some of your favorite Halloween memories? Do you have any favorite Halloween themes music, movies, or television shows/specials? Is there any candy you loved or hated? We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to comment below, or contact us on any of the social media outlets listed towards the end of the post. - Music - Thriller - Spotify playlist - Costumes - Claire's Halloween birthday - Movie talk - Just don't mention R-A-T-S - The Shining - Psych - Heeeeere's Lassie! - Halloween Kills - Friday the 13th franchise - Paul vs. Freddy - Vampire genre - St. Louis trick-or-treaters earn candy with jokes - Candy - Trick-or-Treating - Television - "I got a rock" - More movie talk Del can be found on the show 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM as well the 80s at 8 Facebook page where he posts 80s news. And you can follow Return to the 80s at: https://returntothe80s.wordpress.com/ Find Return to the ’80s on Facebook Twitter:  @returntothe80s Email: returntothe80s@gmail.com

On Inspiring Journeys, we explore the stories of incredible individuals who have faced life's toughest challenges and emerged stronger, with wisdom to share. Today, we have an extraordinary guest—Mike Morgan. Mike is a 30-year police veteran who served in both the City of Atlanta Police Department and the County of Suffolk PD in Long Island. During his years of service, Mike faced unimaginable situations that left him battling severe PTSD. After struggling with the weight of his experiences, Mike discovered healing in a profound way—through plant-based medicines. Now, he’s on a mission to help others, particularly military veterans and first responders, navigate their own healing journeys from trauma, PTSD, and related issues. He is an advocate for mental health, a voice for those struggling with addiction, and an inspiration for how to reclaim life after deep hardship. I’m honored to have Mike with us today to share his story and the important work he’s doing.    ----------------------------------------------------------- This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran:   Craig Stout September 10, 1987 – March 12, 2022 Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (HMM-268) “Red Dragons” Craig grew up running around, playing in the backwoods of Southeast, Ohio. He loved nature, riding motorcycles, and getting his hands dirty fixing anything and everything. He had an absolute heart of gold, a passionate spirit, a brilliant mind, and because of this he had a way of leaving an unforgettable impression on anyone he met. He made friends everywhere he went, in all parts of the country and world, because he could talk to anyone about anything. He had a way of making us all laugh at ourselves with his quick wit, funny faces, the “one finger wave,” as well as his stories of his life that was well-lived. He had a kindness that was rare in this world and his lifelong mission was to passionately protect all living and breathing beings—especially ones that couldn’t protect themselves. Craig’s battles within himself that he fought day after day couldn’t possibly be seen to the naked eye. Even though he hurt, he continued to show love for everyone around him. However, to say this was a shock would mean that we would turn a blind eye to all the pain and suffering Craig held in his heart, body, and mind. His time serving this country, as an extremely young man, did a number on him and he is not alone in that battle at home. He had debilitating back pain, arthritis in both ankles, tinnitus and hearing loss and these ailments only scratch the surface of his physical pain. His immense physical pain added to the mental pain he already endured due to depression and PTSD.  We want his story to be told with raw truth so that it can save other veterans from the fate he chose. Raising awareness by not painting a picture of a perfectly healthy and happy person is the first step. Although we know he is at peace now, we can’t help but wish he had actively sought the help he deserved while he was alive, with the support of his loving family and friends. We remember Craig with unconditional love and pride in our hearts and we hope his story can help others who are struggling to know that they are not alone, it is not too late and that they are loved, too. -------------------------------------------------------------- Mike can be found on Instagram: (@theresilientwarrior5778) ---------------------------------------------------------- You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

On this episode, we would love to introduce you to Phil Januszewski. Phil is a high-energy chemistry/physics teaching keynote speaker and coach that is on a mission to create and spread happiness through education, motivation, and entertainment. He empowers the givers in the world to completely flourish in their personal lives first, in order to ignite passion and purpose in their professional lives as well. Phil is a nationally known dynamic speaker of 10+ years and a public school educator since 2005.  We discuss the challenges and the incredible rewards of teaching high school students over the past couple of decades. Phil also gives some strategies for the givers of the world to stay inspired and motivated. We also talk about the importance of networking, and Phil's Positive Growth Lounge. And Phil also talks about his appearance on the Netflix baking competition show, Nailed It! Enjoy this fun, high energy episode! ----------------------------------------------------------- This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Christopher Cash Christopher Earl Cash, 25, passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2014, in his home. Born in Virginia, he served in the U. S. Army for 4.5 years as a Mechanic and served in Afghanistan in 2011. He loved his family and friends, and will be remembered for his sense of humor. His hometown was Norfolk, VA. His hobbies included working out at the gym. He ALWAYS had a smile on his face and made others laugh. Christopher loved being stationed in Baumholder, Germany after his tour in Afghanistan. His grandparents live in Germany and his mother is from Germany. “Chris will be missed by many (young and old). He had that effect on everyone he met. Such a charmer, and a respectful young man Hoping and praying that the memories can pull you all through this difficult time. Many prayers for the entire family. He is gone, but will never be forgotten. Much Love and Respect for the people who were cherished enough to have known this young man, and have him in your life.” ----------------------------------------------------------- Phil can be found at the following places: Website: https://philjanuszewski.com/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilJanuszewskiSpeaks   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philjanuszewski   YouTube: https://youtube.com/@philjanuszewski   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philjanuszewski   Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philjanuszewski   Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/philjanuszewski   Link to Subscribe to Positive Growth Lounge Emails:  https://mailchi.mp/efbb1914fa7b/join-the-positive-growth-lounge-email-list ---------------------------------------------------------- You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

On this episode of Inspiring journeys, I present to you Episode 2 of the GenX Journeys series. This is a very special episode to me. My heart has been heavy as it was my late cousin Cecelia's birthday this week.  Cecelia and her husband John were Paranormal Investigators, and were pretty well known in that community. They had a YouTube channel, which is still up, called Crazy Cat Paranormal. It features episodes of some of their investigations as well as podcast interviews with some big names among the Paranormal Community, including stars from the show Ghost Hunters. We tried for a very long time to have a crossover podcast episode, and we finally made it happen! We had been shooting for Halloween season in 2021, but our schedules wouldn't allow it until December. This episode was originally posted on December 10, 2021. This was such a blast! I was just listening back to this and I busted out laughing several times! Cecelia had such a great sense of humor. My Return to the '80s cohost, Del Roehling and I joined Cecelia, John, and Cecelia's friend since childhood, Patty. And when Del showed signs of fear, Cecelia was all over it! Cecelia needed to have heart surgery. After one of the surgical procedures, Cecelia never woke up again. She passed away on April 23, 2022 at the age of 55. She really lived life to the fullest and I love her and miss her so much. Life is so short, so get out there and enjoy the journey. And please enjoy this episode. You will fall in love with Cecelia. She brought so much joy to so many people, so I would like you to get a feel of it.   Music used from https://www.FesliyanStudios.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And now for something completely different! A horror movie podcast during Christmas season! Return to the '80s teamed up with Crazy Cat Paranormal for a very special crossover episode. Throw in a couple of cousins and long time buddies, add a good helping of Poltergeist discussion, stir it up with a little bit of Freddie Kruger and you get whatever the heck this episode devolved into! We had so much fun, and this is entertaining. So come check it out and enjoy!   Let us know what you think about the Poltergeist movie and/or franchise. Have you had any paranormal experiences? Do you have any other favorite horror/paranormal movies you'd like to hear us cover? Contact us below. You can find Crazy Cat Paranormal at the following places: YouTube Facebook Instagram Twitter Website Del can be found on the show 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM as well the 80s at 8 Facebook page where he posts 80s news. And you can follow Return to the 80s at: https://returntothe80s.wordpress.com/ Find Return to the ’80s on Facebook Twitter:  @returntothe80s Email: returntothe80s@gmail.com You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify  

On this episode, I’m honored to welcome an incredibly resilient and inspiring guest, Joanica Santos. Joanica has faced more challenges in a short time than many do in a lifetime, from surviving an abusive marriage to enduring the tragic loss of her cousin, and overcoming personal injury. Despite these hardships, she remains a beacon of positivity, faith, and strength. A devoted Christian and fitness enthusiast, Joanica continues to inspire others through her perseverance.  We discuss the adversities that Joanica has been through, and how her faith has helped come out stronger than ever. In addition to her Christian journey, we discuss Joanica embracing the personal development community, and her love of the gym.   This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Heather Bass Heather Renea Bass, Oklahoma City resident, passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at her residence at the age of 42. She was born October 13, 1973 in Tahlequah, OK. Heather enlisted in the United States Army and served her country proudly. She retired from the Army with the rank of Sergeant after several years of service. Heather loved woodwork. OSU was her team. She loved all of her family members, near and far. She had a job playing with the children. Today, in Tempe, AZ at the 22 Too Many 5k held on 06/17/17, Heather’s picture was proudly carried by her cousin as she raced in Heather’s memory.   -------------------------------------------------------------- You can find Joanica on Facebook and Instagram (@joanica.santos)   You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

You're in for a treat on this episode as we welcome the inspiring Adria Gross to the show! Adria’s transformational journey is nothing short of remarkable. After battling epilepsy at a young age and undergoing life-altering brain surgery, she reclaimed her life and now dedicates herself to helping others navigate the complex world of medical insurance. With over 30 years of experience, Adria is the President and CEO of MedWise Insurance Advocacy, where she advocates for those struggling with the confusing healthcare system. She’s the co-author of "Solved! Curing Your Medical Insurance Problems" and "Multi Payer Medicine Nightmare Made in the USA", endorsed by Ralph Nader. Her most recent book, "Apparently DIFFERENT," was released in June 2024, and we dive into the insights and lessons from her powerful story. In this episode, Adria shares her deeply personal journey, how she turned her challenges into a lifelong mission, and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way. We also talk about the transformative power of empathy, navigating relationships while facing health challenges, and the importance of understanding the ever-changing insurance landscape. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Adria overcame her medical challenges and reclaimed her life. Insights from her latest book, "Apparently DIFFERENT." Practical advice for navigating the medical insurance system. The impact of major health events on how we are perceived by society. The healing power of empathy and understanding in the face of adversity. This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Anthony Homnick Airbone Army Veteran Anthony Joseph Homnick, born June 23, 1983, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the beloved son of Priscilla Homnick. Anthony was a 2002 graduate of Berwick High School. In 2003, he joined the United States Army, 82nd Airborne Division, stationed at Fort Benning, GA, where he graduated BCT.In 2005, he deployed to Iraq in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Upon returning, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he did three tours, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the other in Afghanistan, retiring in 2013. He loved in-line skating as a teenager; he also loved drawing, fishing and lifting weights. Most of all, he loved his family and living life to the fullest. He loved his family, his wife and his 3 dogs. He especially loved his nieces and nephews, who he spoiled. He loved the Military just as much as he loved his family. He was also known for his glorious beard, of which he was very proud. He was a kind and gentle soul, who would do anything for anyone and never ask for anything in return. Anthony lost his battle with PTS, February 22, 2015. He was 31 years old.   ---------------------------------------------------- Adria can be reached at the following places https://www.medicalinsuranceadvocacy.com/ Facebook Instagram: @medwise_insurance_advocacy X: @gross84660   email: adria@medwisebilling.com   You can also get her books: Apparently DIFFERENT: The Struggle for Understanding, Acceptance, and Compassion Solved! Curing Your Medical Insurance Problems: Advice from MedWise Insurance Advocacy Multi-Payer Medicine Nightmare Made in the USA: ADVICE FROM MedWise INSURANCE ADVOCACY    ------------------------------------------------------------ Kerri can be found on Instagram: @running_with_the_rockstar Facebook: Every Run Has a Story   You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places: Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner Facebook   Inspiring Journeys can be found on: InspiringJourneys.net Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod Facebook   You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify