The Teaching Journeys Podcast

The Teaching Journeys Podcast

por Dave Roberts
Superación personal
Six and a Half Hours: A Mother's Fight to Ensure No Family Waits for News of a Loved One
In this powerful episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Christine Olson, founder of TIFF's Initiative (To Inform Families First) — a program that has helped over 22 million people in Florida alone ensure their emergency contacts are embedded directly in their driver's license. On December 7, 2005, Christine's daughter Tiffiany was killed in a motorcycle accident. What followed was a nightmarish six-and-a-half-hour ordeal of fragmented communication, unanswered questions, and a law enforcement system unprepared to notify next of kin. That experience became the catalyst for a grassroots movement that is now before the U.S. Congress. In this episode, you'll learn: • The harrowing events of the night Christine lost her daughter • Why the national average for notifying families after a death or emergency is six hours • How a server on a tiny Florida island sparked a nationwide legislative movement • What TIFF's Initiative is, how it works, and why it costs taxpayers nothing • How to check if TIFF is in your state — and how to advocate for it if it isn't • The legacy of Tiffiany Olson and the love that drives this mission forward Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone who simply wants to make sure your family can be reached in a crisis, this episode will move you — and motivate you to take action. Christine's Bio and Contact Information Christine Olson was born in Milwaukee Wisconsin. But she heard the waves of change calling her to Florida in 1999 and joined her brother and son who already relocated to the beautiful island of Anna Maria. Tiffiany her daughter decided to stay in Milwaukee and finish high school while living with her father. In 2000 Tiffiany couldn’t wait any longer and the three of three of them started a new adventure of life on a beautiful seven mile long barrier island. Volunteering at Mote Marine Aquarium’s whale and dolphin program as well as the island turtle patrol Christine felt life just couldn’t get better. Then December 7th 2005 happened. Tiffiany was involved in a fatal crash with her boyfriend and in the blink of an eye Christine’s life as she knew it would be forever turned on its head. This is Christine’s story of how she was forced to make a choice. To literally die or do something so no one would have to endure the horrific events she did that night. Tiffs Initiative was born…………….. RESOURCES MENTIONED: 🌐 Register with TIFF's Initiative: https://toinformfamiliesfirst.org 📘 TIFF on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToInformFamiliesFirst Register your emergency contacts today: toinformfamiliesfirst.org To connect with Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E292
2 ago 2026
36:15
From Prison to Pardon: Perry Staples on 17 Years of Sobriety and Native American Healing
What does it take to go from prison to pardon — and build a life of purpose? In this powerful episode of Teaching Journeys, host Dave Roberts sits down with Perry Staples, a St. Croix Chippewa Indian of Wisconsin tribal member with 17 years of sobriety, a gubernatorial pardon, and a life devoted to helping others heal. Perry shares his raw, honest story: growing up on the reservation, the grip of alcohol and drugs, six DWIs, four felonies, and 33 months in prison — all the way to receiving a personal phone call from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers congratulating him on his pardon. Along the way, Perry reveals how Native American traditions, ceremonies, and culture became the foundation of his recovery — and how they continue to guide his work today as a certified peer specialist and founder of the Wings of Migizi Recovery Peer Support Group. In this episode, you'll hear: • How Perry found sobriety in prison — and nearly lost it the night he got out • The five goals that transformed his life after incarceration • The role of the Big Drum, sweat lodge ceremonies, and Native healing practices in long-term recovery • Why Perry believes addicts "aren't scared of change — they're scared of being changed" • How to approach addiction treatment with cultural sensitivity for Native American clients • The legend of chaga and what Native medicine really means Whether you're in recovery, work in addiction services, or simply want an inspiring story about resilience, faith, and community, this episode will leave a lasting mark. Perry’s Bio and Contact Information Perry Ginwedibik Staples is a St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin Tribal Member who has worked as a Certified Peer Specialist for four years. He has been a small business owner of Two Feathers Construction for the past 28 years, where he provides carpentry services to Tribal elders and community members. He is a serving member of the Burnett County Drug Court, as well as a former participant on the Burnett County Drug Court. Alongside his work responsibilities, he manages the Wings of Migizi recovery/peer support group through the St. Croix Human Services Department. He has been sober for 16 years, enjoys playing golf, and is married with six children and nine grandchildren. Perry is proud to be a member of the Big Drum, which is one of the highest honors within his Tribe. Connect With Perry Wings of Migizi Recovery Peer Support Group Phone: 715-416-8796 (available 24/7) To connect with Dave , go to : davidrobertsmsw.com
E291
31 jul 2026
42:36
The Funeral Is Not the Finish Line: Kelly Edmondson on Grief Support That Lasts
What happens after everyone goes home? In this deeply moving episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Kelly Edmondson — nurse executive, certified grief counselor, and bereaved mother — to explore the one truth most people avoid: grief doesn't end at the funeral. It's just beginning. After losing her son Darius on January 3rd, 2023, Kelly founded A Timely Presence, a year-long grief support service designed to show up for the bereaved long after the flowers fade. Drawing on her clinical background and lived experience, Kelly shares how ongoing presence — not platitudes — is what grieving people truly need. Dave, who lost his daughter Jeannine to cancer over 23 years ago, brings his own profound perspective, making this one of the most honest, human conversations you'll hear on grief, mortality, and healing. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why society avoids talking about death — and why that silence harms the bereaved • What NOT to say to someone who is grieving (and what actually helps) • How grief peaks between months 3–6, long after support disappears • The 3 Rs of workplace grief support: Regulate, Respond, Remain • Why the second year of grief is often harder than the first • How reframing rituals around holidays and milestones can transform the healing journey • Kelly's framework for turning loss into legacy Whether you're grieving, supporting someone who is, or an HR leader navigating employee loss, this episode will change how you show up. Kelly’s Bio and Contact Information Kelly Edmondson is a nurse executive, certified grief counselor, and bereaved mother whose personal loss became the foundation of her life's work. After losing her son Darius on January 3, 2023, Kelly founded Timely Presence, a year-long grief support service built on a simple truth: the funeral is not the finish line. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and her credentials a nurse and grief counselor she helps individuals, families, and organizations show up for the grieving long after the flowers fade. Her mission is to make ongoing presence the standard, not the exception, in grief support. Connect with Kelly Edmondson & A Timely Presence: 🌐 Website: https://thetimelypresence.com 📷 Instagram: @the.kellyedmondson 💼 LinkedIn: Kelly Edmondson 📘 Facebook: Timely Presence To connect with Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E290
30 jul 2026
55:26
We Weren't Born to Be Average: Keith Mercer on Mindset, Mentorship & the Student Success Formula
What happens when a kid from one of America's most dangerous neighborhoods becomes a champion — on and off the field? Keith Mercer knows firsthand. Growing up in Capitol Heights, Maryland — once dubbed the "Murder Capital" — Keith Mercer made a decision early on: his circumstances would not define his future. That mindset took him from the streets of DC to back-to-back national championships at the University of Nebraska under legendary coach Tom Osborne, and eventually to founding Mercer Elite Academy, where he's helped over 200 student athletes earn college scholarships. In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Keith Mercer — leadership expert, professional speaker, consultant, and author of The Student Success Formula — for a raw, powerful conversation about resilience, mentorship, and what it truly takes to help young people thrive. In this episode, you'll hear: How growing up surrounded by violence and poverty shaped Keith's unshakeable mindset What Coach Tom Osborne taught him about leadership, character, and showing up for people The Four Bs of Success framework Keith uses to help students build belief, take action, and find balance Why life skills — not GPA — are the real key to student success How social media, identity struggles, and the "freshman fog" are driving a mental health crisis on campuses Keith's powerful message for any student (or adult) who feels alone, stuck, or like they weren't born for greatness Whether you're an educator, coach, parent, or someone still figuring out your path — this conversation will remind you that your current situation is not your final destination. Keith Mercer Bio and Contact Information Keith Mercer is a Leadership & Mindset Expert | Professional Speaker | Education Consultant | Author | who is Helping Teams, Leaders, Students & Organizations Build Confidence, Culture & High Performance . Connect with Keith Mercer: mercerelite.com LinkedIn: Keith-Mercer Instagram: @mercer_elite YouTube: @keithmercer3857 TikTok: @mercerelite X: @MercerElite 📚 Get the book: The Student Success Formula — available on Amazon To find out more about Dave go to : davidrobertsmsw.com
E289
28 jul 2026
59:17
Losing Two Sons 34 Years Apart: Deston Rogers' Journey Through Grief to Purpose
What happens when grief strikes twice — 34 years apart? In this deeply moving episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Deston Rogers — veteran radio broadcaster, law enforcement officer, international police advisor, and founder of the Eagle Freedom Presents podcast — to explore one of the most profound journeys through loss, faith, and radical resilience you'll ever hear. Deston lost his son Cody and Cody's mother Jodi in a devastating car accident in 1990. Then, 34 years later, he lost his second son Dakota. Rather than surrendering to grief, Deston leaned into his Christian faith, chose connection over isolation, and transformed his pain into purpose. In this episode, you'll discover: • How to navigate multiple child loss and complicated grief • Why your circle of influence is your greatest resource in dark times • The power of faith, family, and professional counseling in healing • What the eagle teaches us about resilience and rising above adversity • Deston's Rise, Inspire, Overcome (RIO) movement and the story behind Eagle Freedom Presents • His contribution to the international bestselling anthology Miracles Are Normal • Whether you're navigating grief, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking a message of hope and purpose, this conversation will leave a lasting mark. Deston’s Bio and Contact Information: Deston Rogers has spent over four decades mastering the art of connection. A veteran of radio broadcasting, law enforcement, and international police advising, his career has been defined by his voice and his commitment to serving others. But his most profound message wasn't forged in a broadcast booth or a briefing room—it was born in the fire of unimaginable personal tragedy. After enduring the devastating loss of two of his sons, thirty-four years apart, and their mother, Deston faced distinct seasons of profound, suffocating grief that challenged everything he knew. In his darkest moments, he leaned entirely into his Christian faith, trusting that God already has a purposeful path laid out and will not let us be defeated. Bolstered by the unwavering support of family and friends, he made the active choice to keep fighting the good fight, stepping fully into a lifestyle of "radical resilience." Today, that choice has become his calling. Deston is an international best-selling contributing author to the book Miracles Are Normal and the founder and host of the Eagle Freedom Presents podcast. Through his platform, he champions the "Rise, Inspire, Overcome" (RIO) movement, using his voice—and his deeply personal journey through pain—to guide and inspire others navigating their own darkest valleys. Favorite bible verse: 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith Website and Email eaglefreedompresents.com 📧eaglefreedompresents@gmail.com Social Media Links: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Podcast: Eagle Freedom Presents — available on all major streaming platforms To connect with Dave: go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E288
26 jul 2026
51:00
Scratches to Scars: Building Resilience After Life's Greatest Losses
What does it take to rebuild your life after unimaginable loss — and turn your deepest wounds into a source of strength for others? In this powerful episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with author, blogger, storyteller, and mental health advocate Diana "Dinky" Smith for a deeply honest conversation about grief, resilience, healing, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward. After losing her daughter Lily to a drunk driving accident on her own birthday, Diana faced years of anger, depression, and isolation. But instead of letting tragedy define her, she chose to transform her pain into purpose — raising her granddaughter, writing books, and building a mission to help others feel less alone in their struggles. In this episode, you'll hear: • The heartbreaking story of losing Lily and its aftermath • How Diana raised her grieving granddaughter through trauma and self-harm • The "Scratches to Scars" framework for building emotional resilience • Why grief has no timeline — and what healthy, integrated grief really looks like • How creativity, storytelling, and kindness can be powerful tools for healing • Details on Diana's upcoming fantasy series Viridian and her brand, My Talking Eye Whether you're navigating child loss, grief, low self-worth, or simply looking for inspiration to keep going, this episode delivers raw honesty, hard-earned wisdom, and genuine hope. Diana Bio and Contact Information Diana “Dinky” Smith is an author, blogger, storyteller, and mental health advocate whose work is dedicated to helping people navigate grief, personal growth, and life's unexpected challenges with honesty, compassion, and hope. After spending more than 22 years as a successful realtor in Colorado, Diana's life changed forever following the tragic loss of her daughter, Lilly. The years that followed led her through a profound journey of grief, depression, healing, and self-discovery. Rather than allowing that experience to define her, she chose to transform it into a mission to help others feel less alone in their own struggles. Drawing from lived experience, extensive personal study, and a deep passion for understanding the human condition, Diana writes about resilience, emotional wellness, grief, purpose, and self-mastery. She is the author of multiple books, including works focused on personal transformation and healing, as well as Veridien, an epic fantasy series that explores themes of courage, sacrifice, redemption, and hope through a richly imagined world. She is also preparing for the future launch of Grief, Unfiltered, a new program under her My Talking Eye brand that will feature candid conversations about grief, healing, mental health, and the realities that many people face but few openly discuss. Known simply as "Dinky" to friends, readers, and listeners, Diana brings authenticity, warmth, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to every conversation. Diana lives in Colorado with her husband, Rick, and continues to write, create, and advocate for stronger emotional health through storytelling, education, and honest dialogue. Her message is simple: no matter what you've been through, your story is not over, and there is still purpose to be found in the chapters ahead. Connect with Diana Smith: 📧 dinkysmithauthor@gmail.com 📘 Facebook: Dinky Diana Smith 📸 Instagram: Dinky Diana Smith 🎙️ Podcast: My Talking Eye (available on Apple Podcasts) Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear that their story is not over. The Teaching Journeys Podcast | Hosted by Dave Roberts | New episodes available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube
E287
24 jul 2026
57:40
From Orphan to CEO: How Kora Franco Built a Luxury Wine Brand on Resilience
What happens when life strips away everything — your mother, your identity, and the father you thought you knew — all before the age of 12? For Kora Franco, it became the foundation for something extraordinary. In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Kora Franco, founder and CEO of Aesthetic Wines, a modern luxury wine brand rooted in resilience, bold self-expression, and intentional living. Kora shares her remarkable journey — from navigating grief and identity loss as a child, to a 15-year search for her biological father using AncestryDNA, to building a thriving wine brand and women's empowerment platform as a single mother. In this episode, you'll learn: • How childhood loss and identity struggles forged unshakeable resilience • What it's really like to break into the wine industry as a Black female founder • Why women drive the wine industry but rarely lead it — and how Kora is changing that • How Aesthetic For Her is creating a first-of-its-kind wine social club for women entrepreneurs • Why "shoot your shot" is the one mindset shift that can change your life Whether you're an entrepreneur, a wine lover, or someone navigating your own defining moment, Kora's story will remind you that luxury truly begins within. Kora’s Bio and Contact Information Kora Franco is the Founder and CEO of Aesthetic Wines, a modern luxury wine brand rooted in resilience, ambition, and bold self-expression. Guided by a deeply personal journey shaped by both triumph and personal loss, Kora believes that luxury is a mindset — one defined by intention, confidence, and the ability to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. Before founding Aesthetic Wines, Kora built her career in banking and consulting, working with top financial institutions and one of the Big Four consulting firms in New York City. Her experience navigating high-performance, male-dominated environments sharpened her strategic mindset, discipline, and leadership style, while reinforcing her passion for empowering women to move boldly, claim their space, confidence, and define success on their own terms. Wine became a natural extension of that philosophy. Through moments of reflection and celebration shared over thoughtfully curated tastings with friends and family, Kora recognized wine as more than a beverage — it is a symbol of mindset, milestones, and the perseverance behind every achievement. This realization became the foundation of Aesthetic Wines — a brand created for those who live intentionally, rise resiliently, and understand that true luxury begins within. Under Kora’s leadership, Aesthetic Wines continues to inspire a community that values confidence, connection, and empowerment — honoring not just where they are, but everything it took to get there. 🔗 Connect with Kora Franco: Website: aestheticwines.com Instagram & TikTok: @AestheticWines App: Aesthetic For Her (Apple & Google) To connect with Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E286
22 jul 2026
34:50
Legacy, Leadership & Listening: Life Lessons with Frank Zaccari
What separates those who bounce back from those who stay stuck? Frank Zaccari has spent a lifetime finding out. In this episode of the Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts welcomes Frank Zaccari — 5x bestselling author, business turnaround expert, Air Force veteran, and host of the Bounce Back in Business and Life podcast — for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the lessons that only life can teach. Frank shares how enlisting in the Air Force at 21 gave him a crash course in responsibility, critical thinking, and people management — skills he carried into 25+ years in the high-tech industry and later into turning around failing companies. He opens up about navigating divorce as a single dad, writing nine books, building the Trust the Process book marketing program (18 consecutive bestselling launches), and mentoring veterans through the Veterans Treatment Court. In this episode: Why what you don't know is more dangerous than what you do How to lead with empathy without losing accountability The difference between strategy and tactics — and why most leaders confuse them What it really takes to market a bestselling book Why legacy is not what you accumulate, but what you activate in others "The secret to walking on water is knowing where the rocks are." — Frank Zaccari Frank’s Bio and Contact Information A native of western New York, Frank Zaccari served as a military medic in the U.S. Air Force before spending over 25 years in the high-tech industry. His experience included senior positions with Fortune 50 organizations “re-launching” small and mid-size companies. Frank is a 5X bestselling and 4X award-winner author who has written and published nine books based on life altering events. He led a workshop for aspiring entrepreneurs at Arizona State University; is a mentor with the Veterans Treatment Court; a mentor and judge with the University of California Entrepreneurship Academy and is an accomplished speaker. Frank hosts a Roku TV, Bounce Back in Business Life Podcast and youtube show which, has 240,000 listeners in 42 countries. Socials are: · https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4jSFziDx5ZQXP2ZY5-M0-w · https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankzaccari/ · https://www.frankzaccari.net/ · https://fzaccari.substack.com/? · frankzaccari@gmail.com · http://www.authorstrusttheprocess.com/ Connect with Frank Zaccari: 🔗 LinkedIn: Frank Zaccari 📧 frankzacari@gmail.com 🎙️ Podcast: Bounce Back in Business and Life To connect with Dave, go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E285
20 jul 2026
1:07:18
What Is Organizational Resilience and How Do You Measure It?
What does it actually take to build a resilient organization — and how do you measure it? In this episode of the Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts welcomes back Terry Healey — cancer survivor, facial difference advocate, keynote speaker, business strategist, and author of The Resilience Mindset. Terry draws on his 35-year career as a marketing executive and his deeply personal journey through a rare fibrosarcoma diagnosis to explore what resilience really looks like inside teams, leadership structures, and organizations. You'll discover why 83% of people believe they're resilient, but research shows only 57% actually are — and what organizations can do about it. Terry walks through his 7-dimension resilience assessment framework, covering resourcefulness, capability, alignment, seeking support, hopefulness, growth mindset, and positive mindset, and explains how leaders can use these tools to build stronger, more adaptable teams. What you'll learn in this episode: • The difference between individual and organizational resilience • How to conduct a resilience assessment workshop using Terry's proven framework • Why emotional intelligence and empathy are non-negotiable leadership skills • How the REBAR framework (Reflect, Build, Act, Renew) applies to both personal and organizational growth • Why empowering employees — not micromanaging them — is the foundation of a resilient culture • The one daily habit Terry recommends for anyone struggling with attitude or adversity Terry Healey Bio A survivor of a life-threatening cancer that left him with a permanent facial difference, Terry Healey is an author, keynote speaker, and business strategist. A graduate of UC Berkeley with a thirty-five-year career as a marketing executive, Terry challenges audiences to face adversity and change, and apply his ReBAR resilience framework and principles to gain confidence, build resilience, and find greater purpose and joy in their personal and professional lives. Terry lives in Santa Cruz, CA with his wife Sue. Learn more at terryhealey.com. Resources mentioned: The Resilience Mindset by Terry Healey To find out more about Dave, go to davidrobertsmsw.com
E284
17 jul 2026
40:43
The Self-Care Sensei: How Karate, Positive Psychology & the MORE Framework Transform Your Life
What does it truly mean to strive for more — and how do you get there? In this episode of the Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Jan Raeder, the Self-Care Sensei — a wellbeing educator, keynote speaker, and author with over 30 years of experience in traditional Okinawan and Japanese karate. Jan breaks down her evidence-based MORE Framework (Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement) from her book Strive for More: What Wellbeing Really Means and How You Can Achieve It, and shares how the principles of martial arts — self-discipline, resilience, and perseverance — apply directly to personal growth and conscious wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: The key difference between wellness and wellbeing (and why it matters) How to use the MORE Framework to build a life of clarity, confidence, and purpose Why self-awareness alone isn't enough — and what to do with it How positive psychology and the science of optimism can rewire your mindset The role of gratitude, resilience, and meaning in overcoming life's biggest crossroads Lessons from 10,000+ sparring rounds and decades of martial arts teaching Whether you're navigating a career transition, health challenge, or simply want to live with more intention, this conversation is packed with actionable insights rooted in behavioral science and lived wisdom. Jan’s Bio and Contact Information Jan Raeder is a recognized Wellbeing Educator, keynote speaker, and author dedicated to helping people lead lives of clarity, confidence, and conscious well-being. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in traditional Okinawan and Japanese karate, behavior change science, and positive psychology, Jan blends evidence-based insights with lived wisdom to support meaningful, sustainable growth. As the author of Strive for M.O.R.E.: What Wellbeing Really Means & How You Can Achieve It, Jan breaks down her M.O.R.E.™ framework (Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement) and offers evidence-based, actionable tools. She delivers dynamic keynotes and workshops that help individuals and organizations make the mindset shifts that lead to lasting change. Having fought in over 10,000 sparring rounds, Jan deeply understands how practice, self-discipline, honor, and perseverance shape growth. That experience has also taught her a vital life lesson: the moment you start taking things personally, you lose your center—on the mat and in life. A National AAU Karate gold medalist and former senior instructor and business manager at US Budokai Karate of Albany, Jan also earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just four years. Through her work as the SelfCare Sensei, she empowers others to strive for M.O.R.E.—and to live with purpose, energy, and heart. Jan's Book: Strive for M.O.R.E.: What Wellbeing Really Means and How You Can Achieve It 🌐 Website: selfcaresensei.com 📱 Instagram: @selfcaresenseijraeder 👥 Facebook: Self Care Sensei | Jan Raeder Well-Being Educator 💼 LinkedIn: Jan Raeder To connect with Dave: davidrobertsmsw.com
E283
15 jul 2026
51:13
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