Inspiring Journeys

🎄 Welcome back to GenX Journeys on Inspiring Journeys! That’s right—this is the second episode of the week! Are you surprised? Well, as Clark Griswold would say: “If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised than I am right now!” This time, we’re diving into the holiday classic Christmas Vacation! Once again, I’m joined by the amazing Del Roehling, Claire Young, and Caroline Connely as we unpack everything that makes this movie an essential part of the season. From iconic scenes and unforgettable quotes to the casting of the Griswold kids and Caroline’s spot-on Aunt Bethany impression, we cover it all. And of course, we sprinkle in some fun facts to keep you laughing and learning along the way. So, pour yourself some eggnog (or grab that Jell-O mold) and tune in to this Christmas treat. After all, this podcast is like the Jelly of the Month Club—it’s the gift that keeps on giving all year round! 🎁 Let’s relive the Griswold family chaos together. Press play now and join the fun!   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 still 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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

🎥 "Welcome to the party, pals!" In this special holiday episode, originally recorded for Return to the '80s, we’re celebrating the ultimate Christmas action movie: Die Hard! Join me, Paul Stroessner, along with the amazing Del Roehling, Claire Young, and Caroline Connely as we dive into the iconic 1988 classic that redefined holiday entertainment. In this episode, we explore: 🔹 The great debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? (Spoiler: we all say YES!) 🔹 Bruce Willis as John McClane—an everyman action hero for the ages 🔹 Alan Rickman’s unforgettable debut as Hans Gruber 🔹 Some most iconic scenes 🔹 The witty one-liners and legendary quotes that have stood the test of time 🔹 Why Die Hard continues to be a GenX holiday favorite Fun highlights: 🎄 Nostalgic reflections on what made Die Hard so groundbreaking 🎅 Hidden Christmas references you might have missed 🎁 Our favorite moments, characters, and quotes So, grab some popcorn, take off your shoes, and join us as we relive the Nakatomi Plaza takeover. Yippee Ki-Yay and Happy Holidays!   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 still 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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

In this inspiring episode, we reconnect with Russ Rogers, who shared his journey with us back in Episode 12, and welcome Dan Scoca, as Russ and Dan are launching a brand new podcast next month. Dan shares his background as a physician’s assistant and explains his passion for both physical and mental wellness. Russ and Dan dive into how they met and bonded over their shared commitment to empowering others. Together, they’re launching the Dual Coast Podcast in January 2025, with a mission to inspire listeners to move, improve their health, and achieve a balanced mind-body connection. Topics We Discuss in This Episode: Updates from Russ and his ongoing journey. Dan’s background and approach to wellness. How Russ and Dan connected to form a powerful team. Insights into the Dual Coast Podcast and its unique focus on physical and mental wellness. Practical tips for overcoming seasonal depression and finding motivation to move, even when you’re in a rut. Russ’s practice of choosing a one-word theme for the year and the profound impact it’s had on his mindset.   This episode is dedicated to 22 Too Many Veteran: Chad Contranchis In Memory of HM3 Chad Julius Contranchis USN November 5, 1979 – September 20, 2015 Navy Corpsman /  Iraq 2003 Afghanistan 2004 In school Chad loved sports – he played football, baseball, and ran track. He knew no strangers.  Later, Chad worked for Jefferson Fiberglass and later joined the United States Navy. He served in the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars as a Medical Corpsman. He took his military job very seriously. He loved taking care of others and was proud of his work. He was “Doc”, a Hospital Corpsman on the front lines in Iraq. He took an oath to help everyone, even the injured Iraqis. He served on the USS Saipan with the 2nd Battalion – 8th Marine Regiment. He later served in Afghanistan. He was stationed in Camp LeJeune in North Carolina. After his two tours he went to Virginia Tech and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Health and Science. Afterwards he served in Maine, and there he started to experience PTSD. He tried, not letting it bother him. He met Sherry, the mother of his twins, Chad Jr. and Gabrielle. He passed away September 20, 2015.  Those left behind to cherish his memory include his children, Chad Julius Contranchis Jr. and Gabrielle Judy Contranchis; his mother, Brenda Contranchis and her companion Huey Bethancourt; grandmother, Shirley Autin Contranchis; his father of 27 years, Kevin Barrios; grandmother June Barrios along with many other loving family members and friends. Chad was a loving father, son, grandson and friend and will be sadly missed. “My thoughts and heartfelt condolences to the family and children of Doc Contranchis, with whom I served in Iraq. He was a man not only of good honor but also of good humor, and we are all poorer for his loss. Rest peacefully, Doc. -Chef” “I served with Chad and I say this, He will be missed. All the guys from the Marines that knew him will hold his memory in a special place for all eternity. All I remember was a young man that came to the Battalion and in a matter of days we were on a ship heading for Iraq. He was always wanting to help and always there volunteering for the extra jobs. He had a great sense of humor and will be missed. I can’t imagine how you feel and I’m sorry for your loss. HM2 Alan”  Final Rest: Saint Pius X Church, Crown Point, Louisiana ------------------------------------------------------- Dual Coast Podcast can be found on: Instagram (@dualcoastpodcast) Facebook TikTok (@dualcoastpodcast) It will begin streaming every Tuesday on all of the above apps as well as YouTube, beginning January 7, 2025 at 8:30am Eastern/5:30am Pacific.  Email: dualcoastpod@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------------- You can purchase Russ' books on Amazon You can also visit Russ on https://movetoday365.com/ You can also find him on: Instagram (@MoveToday365) Facebook Email: movetoday365@yahoo.com   Dan can be found on Instagram (@dscocs31)   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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

On this special episode of GenX Journeys, we revisit a fascinating conversation originally recorded for Return to the '80s on January 28, 2021. Paul and Del had the privilege of interviewing legendary rock photographer Mark "Weissguy" Weiss. Mark’s story is not just a nostalgic trip through the 80s rock scene; it’s an inspiring journey of passion, persistence, and seizing opportunities. Mark is the creative genius behind some of the most iconic album covers of the 80s, including Twisted Sister’s Stay Hungry and Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet. His photographs have graced the pages of rock magazines like Circus, cementing his place as a cornerstone of 80s rock culture. But Mark’s career wasn’t handed to him—it started with a daring hustle. He was arrested for selling photos outside a Kiss concert, and that unlikely setback led to an opportunity with Circus magazine. In this episode, Mark shares unforgettable stories, including earning the nickname “Weissguy” from Mötley Crüe, hitting the road with Ozzy Osbourne, and the wild moments behind the scenes of rock’s golden era. Mark also shares details about his incredible coffee table book, The Decade That Rocked: The Photography of Mark "Weissguy" Weiss. This stunning collection of photos takes you on a journey through the 80s rock scene and is an absolute must-have for any fan of the era. Additionally, at the time of this interview, Mark was collaborating with Missy Whitney on a book called Keep On Rollin' - My Fan Club Years with Kevin DuBrow & Quiet Riot. That book is now complete and available, making this a perfect moment to revisit this conversation. Links to Connect with Mark Weiss Website: TheDecadeThatRocked.com Book: The Decade That Rocked and other merchandise available on his website. Social Media: Twitter: @markweissguy Instagram: @markweissguy Why This Episode Fits GenX Journeys Mark’s journey is not just about capturing iconic moments in rock history—it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and the ability to turn challenges into triumphs. His inspiring path aligns perfectly with the spirit of Inspiring Journeys and our focus on celebrating the human spirit through stories of perseverance and growth. 🎸 Sit back and enjoy this trip back to the 80s and the remarkable career of Mark Weiss, a true "Weissguy" in every sense of the word. ------------------------------------------------------------------ We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite 80s rock memory or album cover? Share it with us on social media and tag us—we might even share your story in a future episode! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review, sharing it with your fellow 80s fans, and subscribing to Inspiring Journeys so you don’t miss future episodes.   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 still 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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

In this heartfelt solo episode of Inspiring Journeys, we honor 20 incredible veterans whose lives were lost to the battle with PTSD. Each of these heroes was honored during my Marine Corps Marathon run, dedicating a mile to their memory and legacy. The episode begins with gratitude and reflections on the transformative experiences of this year, including the rebranding of this podcast and the marathon journey itself. I also share the mission of 22 Too Many, an organization founded by Keri Jacobs to bring attention to the silent epidemic of veteran suicide. Keri joined us on Episode 27 to share her inspiring mission and her personal story, which has touched countless lives. As I share the stories of these 20 heroes, their bravery, dedication, and humanity shine through. This episode is a tribute to their lives, a call to remember their sacrifices, and a reminder to offer compassion and support to those who may still be struggling. Let’s walk this journey together as we celebrate the human spirit and honor these remarkable individuals. Links and Resources Learn more about 22 Too Many. Listen to Episode 27 with Keri Jacobs for more about 22 Too Many’s mission. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line or call 988 and press 1. Help is available. 60 Minutes episode on Clay Hunt - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poxKILRDvCA _________________________________________________________________________ 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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

I’m thrilled to share a very special episode from the GenX Journeys branch of our feed. As part of bringing over some of the best moments from my former Return to the '80s podcast, I couldn’t think of a better one to kick off the holiday season than this Thanksgiving classic! Originally released on November 23, 2021, this episode is all about the hilarious and heartwarming Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, directed by John Hughes and starring two legends—Steve Martin and John Candy. Joining me for this fun-filled discussion are my cohost, Del Roehling, and our fantastic regular guests, Claire Young and Caroline Connelly. The four of us have incredible chemistry and some laugh-out-loud moments in this episode as we dive into this classic film, share our Thanksgiving traditions, and even talk about a real-life Planes, Trains, and Automobiles adventure from Claire and Caroline.   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 still 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 Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys Podcast at: Apple Podcasts iHeartRadio Spotify

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