The Teaching Journeys Podcast

The Teaching Journeys Podcast

by Dave Roberts
Self-Improvement
How Grief Shakes You Into Your True Purpose
Grief can break you open - or become the force that rebuilds your life with more truth, purpose, and peace. Chris Mamone returns to share the raw, practical, and unexpectedly hopeful lessons that have emerged from his journey after the loss of his son Caden, and why he now sees grief not as something to “get over,” but as something that can transform you. Chris and host Dave Roberts go deep on the moments that change everything: how Chris turned pain into purpose through The Empowered Grief Journey: 23 Stories of Grief that Carved a New Path Forward, why surrounding yourself with the right people matters more than forcing your way back to “normal,” and how to recognize when grief is asking you to release what no longer serves you. They also unpack Chris’s “rules of engagement” for reclaiming life, including why not every relationship belongs on your path, why rejection can be redirection, and how to quiet the outside noise long enough to hear your own inner voice again. You’ll discover: Why Chris believes grief is a brutal but beautiful teacher How an anthology of 23 grief stories became a powerful healing tool What “redirection is repurpose” really means in real life Why support circles change as you heal, and why that’s okay How to move from fear and self-blame into gratitude, presence, and contribution Dave and Chris also talk candidly about surrender, spiritual perspective, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward after unimaginable loss. Chris shares what changed for him when the heavy weight of grief finally lifted, and how that shift helped him see Caden not only as a loss, but as a lasting source of meaning, guidance, and growth. Essential listening if you’re navigating child loss, miscarriage, trauma, or any season where life feels shattered and you need proof that healing is possible without pretending the pain never happened. Chris’s Bio and Contact Information Chris Mamone is an acceptance coach, the founder of My Becoming Path Coaching Practice and Podcast, and the author of The Empowered Grief Journey. He helps people move from pain into hope, self-acceptance, and personal power through grief so they can create an inspiring future grounded in healing, truth, and purpose. He is also the host of The Empowered Grief Journey Coaching Practice and Podcast, which can be found on your favorite podcast platforms.. Relevant Links Facebook: Chris Mamone Website: MyBecomingPath.com Email: mybecomingpath@gmail.com Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: PQIGXIAM7JG2WZRW, 8BAAISDHCS84UYWM The Teaching Journeys Podcast can be found on your favorite podcast platforms
E314
Sep 23, 2026
51:34
How Serendipity and Music Combined to Create a Life-Changing Epilepsy Charity
A charity can become a movement when it’s built on love, music, and one unforgettable mission. Mike Gomoll shares how Joey's Song turned personal loss into a one-of-a-kind live music event that raises epilepsy awareness while creating moments you cannot hear anywhere else.Mike’s story starts long before the stage lights. From his years in IBM management to the college music scene that shaped his connections, he explains how a series of small, unexpected choices eventually led to a fundraising platform honoring his son Joey, who lived with Dravet syndrome. What began as an idea for compilation CDs evolved into a live, all-covers celebration powered by some of the most respected names in music.You’ll discover: How Joey's Song grew from a simple fundraising concept into a must-see annual event in Madison Why Butch Vig became a key creative force and musical director The “world’s greatest live jukebox” formula that brings artists together for unpredictable, once-in-a-lifetime performances How the event quietly educates first-time attendees about epilepsy while keeping the night fun, communal, and unforgettable Why music became both a tribute to Joey and a vehicle for healing, awareness, and action Mike also opens up about Joey’s life, the family’s grief, and the deeply human reality behind the mission. He explains what a cure for epilepsy would actually mean for parents and caregivers, and why even small acts of support matter when you’re trying to change the future for families facing devastating diagnoses.If you care about music, grief, purpose, or the power of community to turn pain into impact, this conversation will stay with you. Essential listening for anyone who believes one person, one song, and one idea can still change lives. Mike’s Bio and Contact Information Bio : Mike Gomoll lives in Sun Prairie, WI, with his wife, Nory, and their 3 dogs. His children, Julia (26) and Sam (24), live within 30 minutes. Mike spent most of his professional life with IBM in a series of management roles before retiring in 2017. He now spends full-time managing and building Joey's Song with the hope of soon finding more effective treatments and cures for epilepsy. Contact Information Website: (joeyssong.org) All Social media platforms: @JoeysSong Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: GMAGNTHKCKYVOBCJ, DLRYDXS1CNO25ASR
E313
Sep 21, 2026
49:42
The Secret to Giving Patients a Voice That Researchers Can’t Ignore
In this episode, Wes Michael shares the story behind founding Rare Patient Voice, how it connects patients with researchers, and the future of patient-centered healthcare. Discover how patient voices are shaping medical research and treatment development. You will further discover: The origin story of Rare Patient Voice How patient panels are built and used in research The importance of listening to diverse patient voices Future directions for global patient engagement The role of technology and social media in patient recruitment Challenges and frustrations in patient research participation The impact of patient feedback on drug development The importance of inclusivity in patient research Wes Michael's personal motivation and experiences The merger with Konovo and future growth plans Wes' Bio and Contact Information Wes Michael founded Rare Patient Voice (RPV) in 2013 to give patients and family caregivers the opportunity to voice their opinions through taking part in all types of research studies. Rare Patient Voice has now recruited for thousands of studies and rewarded patients and family caregivers with over $18 million for their participation. Many have been recruited in person by Wes and his team at patient events and through a robust referral program with patient advocacy and support groups. Rare Patient Voice now covers over 1,500 rare and non-rare diseases and conditions and has expanded from the United States to Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. In 2026, RPV was acquired by Konovo, a healthcare technology and insights company. Before launching Rare Patient Voice, Wes worked for healthcare market research firm Kantar Health. He previously was a brand manager and market research manager at McCormick (the spice company) and General Mills (working on Wheaties, Total and Kix cereals). He has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania (with a year at Edinburgh University) and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Resources and Contact Information Rare Patient Voice Website - https://www.rarepatientvoice.com Canovo Healthcare Technology - https://www.canovo.com LinkedIn Profile of Wes Michael - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-michael Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: IE3W9VWQQUJHTJDD, ETWVEZXCQD6DDZUL The Teaching Journeys Podcast is on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms.
E312
Sep 17, 2026
25:18
The Shocking Truth About Filicide You Never Knew Existed
Alec and Lydia’s story changed everything. Hope Hooten shares the heartbreaking truth behind filicide, the warning signs families and courts miss, and how she turned unimaginable loss into a nationwide fight to protect children. Hope and host Dave Roberts go far beyond grief. They break down what filicide actually is, why coercive control and domestic violence are often fatal warning signs, and how a single system failure can cost lives. Hope also reveals the personal and policy work behind the Alec and Lydia Act, the Arizona law named for her children that now requires courts to take abuse allegations seriously and puts child safety at the center of family court decisions. You’ll discover: Why filicide is more common than most people realize The lethality risk markers that can signal danger before tragedy strikes How coercive control shows up in real relationships and why it is so often ignored What changed with the Alec and Lydia Act and why it matters beyond Arizona How Hope’s bestselling memoir, There’s Still Hope, turns pain into purpose Why her podcast, Voices Against Filicide, is giving families, advocates, and legislators a place to be heard Hope also opens up about Alec and Lydia as children, the devastating day she lost them, and the layered grief of losing both her kids and her parents within a few years. Through it all, she stays rooted in faith, community, and the belief that healing is possible without erasing the truth. Essential listening if you care about child safety, domestic violence prevention, family court reform, or the kind of resilience that becomes action. Hope’s Bio and Contact Information Hope Hooton is a Podcast Host, Child Safety Advocate, Author, and Public Speaker dedicated to protecting children and reforming family court systems across the United States. She is the founder and host of the Voices Against Filicide podcast, where she amplifies the voices of families impacted by filicide and raises national awareness to prevent these devastating crimes. After the tragic loss of her two children, Alec and Lydia Mater, in an act of filicide in May 2024 in Arizona, Hope turned her grief into purpose. She has become a leading advocate for child safety, working to expose critical failures within family court systems and push for meaningful legislative reform. Hope is the driving force behind The Alec and Lydia Act (HB2995). Signed into law in Arizona by Governor Katie Hobbs on June 22, 2026, this landmark Arizona legislation fundamentally overhauls child custody standards by prioritizing child safety, explicitly defining coercive control as domestic violence, and restricting unsupervised visitation for abusive parents. She is also the author of the #1 bestselling memoir, There’s Still Hope: A Journey of Adversity, Tragedy, and Unshakable Faith, which has reached #1 bestseller status in multiple categories across the United States and over five countries internationally. Official Websites & Resources: Website: Voices Against Filicide Linktree: Hope in the Pain Linktree Podcast: Voices Against Filicide is available on your favorite platforms. Connect on Social (Hope in The Pain): Instagram: @hope_in_the_pain TikTok: @hope.in.the.pain YouTube: @Hopeinthepain There's Still Hope by Hope Hooten - https://amazon.com/hope-hooten-theres-still-hope Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: LIGM9VMGTWDSRTYT, 4MSLCUQHF9ZWP9LD
E311
Sep 14, 2026
36:15
Why Moving Away From Material Things Can Accelerate Emotional Recovery
In this episode, Sylvia Wolfler shares her journey of grief, her passion for travel and minimalism, and how different cultures influence her approach to healing and life after loss. This episode explores the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness, and cultural practices in transforming grief into growth. Key Topics Sylvia's journey through grief and travel The influence of family and cultural history on seeking new experiences Travel as a means of gaining control and coping with loss The role of mindfulness and cultural rituals in healing The concept of liminality and crossroads in grief The importance of community and support systems in resilience Minimalism and detachment as paths to freedom and clarity The cycle of life and death in nature and culture The impact of different cultural perspectives on death and grieving Tools and practices for navigating grief and transformation Notable Quotes "Travel gave me a sense of control over major changes in my life" "Travel helps reconnect us to life and to other people" "Holding on to permanence can lead to suffering" Sylvia's Bio and Contact Information Sylvia Wolfer is a grief coach working at the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness, and movement. Her work is shaped by both professional training and lived experience, having lost both parents and two brothers over the course of her life. After years of trying to “move forward” through grief using conventional approaches, it was the science of the brain and body that gave her a different kind of understanding — one that helped her regain a sense of stability and agency when everything felt disorienting. Alongside this, her long-standing practice of Pilates became a powerful anchor, helping her reconnect with her body and find a sense of steadiness from within. Today, Sylvia helps people who are outwardly functioning but internally struggling after loss to understand what grief is doing to their brain and nervous system, and to regain agency and rebuild capacity. Her work combines research-backed insights with a deeply human approach, offering digital courses, 1:1 support, and guided practices that meet people where they are. Links Website: https://sylviawolfer.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/_sylvia_wolfer_grief_support/ Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylviawolfer/ Reach out to Sylvia for coaching or learn more about how these philosophies can support your healing journey. Links to Ep 256 : https://rss.com/podcasts/theteachingjourneys/2739784/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TU3GMFx3AAE Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: EOBSMWUJQL22KP5V The Teaching Journeys Podcast can be found on your favorite podcast platforms.
E310
Sep 10, 2026
50:35
The Four Hidden Pillars Stealing Your Satisfaction (And What to Do About It)
What if the things stealing your satisfaction are hiding in plain sight? In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Lynette Melnyk — next chapter strategist and creator of the Unedited Life — to explore why so many accomplished people feel like life looks right on paper but something feels off. Lynette shares her own journey through burnout, a trip to France that didn't fix what she thought it would, and how she found her way to helping others rediscover who they really are beneath years of expectations and obligations. In this episode, you'll discover: The 4 hidden pillars stealing your satisfaction: time, energy, attention, and identity Why success can make it harder — not easier — to hear your own soul How creativity and "getting into the flow" can unlock clarity and direction The difference between reinvention and editing your life (and why one is far less scary) What it means to be "over-loyal to a version of yourself you've outgrown" The one question Lynette asks every client that changes everything Whether you're burned out, restless, or just feel like something's missing, this conversation will give you practical insight and the permission to start listening to yourself again. Lynette’s Bio and Contact Information Lynette Melnyk believes that success is a wonderful builder... but a terrible editor. As a Next Chapter Strategist and creator of The Unedited Life™, she helps accomplished people who feel like life looks right on paper but something feels off. Through practical insight and thoughtful conversations, she helps them stop second-guessing themselves and create a life that fits who they are now. Connect with Lynette Website lynettemelnick.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettemelnyk/ Website: https://www.lynettemelnyk.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lynettemelnyk Resource Free PDF https://lynettemelnyk.coachesconsole.com/nothing-wrong-so-why-pdf If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend and leave a rating or review — your support makes all the difference. The Teaching Journeys Podcast is on YouTube and other commonly known podcast platforms.
E309
Sep 3, 2026
35:09
Eliza Young: Surviving Vitamin A Toxicity, Parental Kidnapping & Building a Captivating Life
What happens when a child survives vitamin A toxicity, 20+ surgeries, parental kidnapping, and a front-row seat to 9/11 — and still builds a captivating life? In this powerful episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with author and resilience advocate Eliza Young to unpack one of the most extraordinary life journeys you'll ever hear. Eliza shares how she became the first diagnosed case of vitamin A toxicity — a medical mystery that left her physically handicapped and led to over 20 surgeries before her 18th birthday. She opens up about surviving her parents' brutal custody battle, including multiple parental kidnappings, and being just one mile from the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. But this isn't just a story of survival. It's a story of transformation. Eliza discusses: How writing her memoir Life in Captivity became a healing journey after a breast cancer diagnosis The mind-body connection in medical treatment and how patients are (and aren't) truly heard Raising children with freedom and voice after growing up without either Why she's trading New York for southern Spain at nearly 60 years old Her definition of resilience — and why it's okay to feel the lows without staying in them Whether you're a trauma survivor, a caregiver, a parent, or simply someone searching for proof that it's never too late to create the life you've always wanted, Eliza's story will move and inspire you. Eliza’s Bio and Contact Information Throughout her childhood, Eliza overcame unimaginable challenges. She was the first diagnosed case of Vitamin A toxicity that left her physically handicapped, experienced over 20 surgeries before she turned 18, faced emotional and mental trials when her parents battled for custody, including parental kidnappings, and on September 11, 2001, was just one mile away from the World Trade Center. Eliza is a testament to resilience and strength. She embodies the spirit of survival and her story will inspire and empower others. 🌐 Website: acaptivatinglife.com 📖 Book: alifeincaptivity.com Social Media: https://www.acaptivatinglife.com/contact/
E308
Sep 1, 2026
28:41
When the Lion Roars: Finding Your Spirit Animal & Answering Your Soul's Call
What if an animal has been trying to send you a message — and you just haven't been paying attention? In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with licensed clinical social worker and intuitive spiritual guide Tammy Zumbo to explore the transformative journey behind her upcoming book, When the Lion Roars: Answering the Call (releasing August 18th). Tammy shares how a shamanic breathwork journey in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and a sacred ceremony on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala led her to discover the white lion as her primary spirit totem — and how that encounter completely reshaped the book she was writing. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify your spirit animal or totem — including signs you may be missing in everyday life What shamanic breathwork is and how it can unlock deep emotional healing and shadow work Why forgiveness is freedom — and how to release energetic bonds that keep you stuck The role of soul contracts and past lives in shaping your current relationships and challenges What the Akashic Records are and how they can offer clarity on your soul's journey How energy medicine, acupressure tapping, reiki, cacao ceremonies, and compassion key can support your spiritual path Whether you're an empath, light worker, or highly sensitive person navigating your purpose, this conversation offers practical tools and profound perspective to help you hear — and answer — the call of your soul. Tammy’s Bio and Contact Information Tammy Zumbo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with people on an intuitive, spiritual level. Together we will collaborate in navigating your journey. She combines Energy Medicine and Energy Psychology ( acupressure tapping) into sessions. She specializes in the guidance of Empaths, Light workers, and Highly Sensitive People. Tammy’s goal is to help validate all who seek her wisdom ,support and tools to help them navigate the world. She teaches workshops in the area of energy healing, Empath self care, Energy Psychology, and blending complementary therapies into direct practice modalities. She is available for speaking engagements. Tammy is the author of the book, When The Lion Roars, due to be released on August 18 , 2026. 🔗 Connect with Tammy: tammyzumbo.com 📖 When the Lion Roars: Answering the Call — available on Amazon & Kindle The Teaching Journeys Podcast can be found on your favorite podcast platforms.
E307
Aug 31, 2026
39:51
Why Do We Eat Our Feelings? A Trauma-Informed OT Explains
In this powerful episode of the Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Cristina P. Simmons — bestselling author, TEDx speaker, trauma-informed occupational therapist, and founder of Soul Story Collective — to explore the deep connection between emotional trauma and our relationship with food. Cristina opens up about losing three biological children, raising a son with autism, surviving two major surgeries, and how all of it led her to discover occupational therapy — and ultimately, herself. She breaks down why so many of us eat our feelings, the neuroscience behind emotional eating, and the practical tools she used to heal her nervous system and redefine her relationship with food. In this episode, you'll learn: Why emotional eating is rooted in nervous system dysregulation — not a lack of willpower How occupational therapy principles can help anyone manage stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers What "mirror work" is and how it helped Cristina rebuild her sense of self The surprising connection between childhood food rules and adult emotional patterns How vulnerability and storytelling can be powerful tools for healing What the Soul Story Collective is and how it helps women share their stories Whether you're on a wellness journey, working through grief, or simply curious about the mind-body connection, this episode will leave you feeling seen — and inspired to give yourself grace. Bio and Contact Information Cristina P. Simmons is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, trauma-informed occupational therapist, and publisher. Inspired by her personal journey, she now helps women turn pain into purpose through storytelling. As the founder of Soul Story Collective, she blends clinical expertise and lived experience to guide women in healing, regulating their nervous systems, and sharing their stories with clarity, strength, and impact. She believes every woman’s story holds the power to heal not only herself, but others. Connect with Cristina: 🌐 cristinapsimmons.com 📧 info@cristinapsimmons.com Social Media https://www.facebook.com/cristina.b.simmons https://www.instagram.com/cristinapsimmons/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-simmons/ https://www.youtube.com/@CristinaSimmons-d3j 📚 Eat Your Feelings — available on Amazon 📱 Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok The Teaching Journeys Podcast is on your favorite platforms
E306
Aug 29, 2026
33:38
Energy Clearing, Self-Love and the Unseen World with Venus Castleberg
What if the energy trapped in a house could prevent it from selling — and a spiritual specialist could clear it? In this captivating episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Venus Castleberg — energetic clearing specialist, intuitive guide, ordained minister, and bestselling author — for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges the seen and unseen worlds. Venus shares her remarkable story: how getting sober at 30 unlocked her gifts as a clairvoyant medium, her years of resistance, and the pivotal moment in Sedona that changed everything. She explains how she developed the Vibrational Flow Method — a seven-step system that helps real estate agents clear the stagnant energy holding properties back from selling. Dave and Venus also explore: How to tell when a home needs energetic clearing (and 49 things to try before calling Venus) The psychology of self-love and why we're conditioned to work against ourselves Trusting your intuition even when science dominates the conversation The power of Reiki, spiritual awakening, and embracing your gifts instead of hiding them Venus's bestselling book Here To Forever: Finally Free To Be Me Whether you're a real estate professional, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about what lies beyond the veil, this episode offers practical wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and a powerful reminder: loving yourself is not as hard as you make it. Venus Bio and Contact Information Venus Castleberg is an energetic clearing specialist, intuitive guide, and ordained minister with over 25 years of experience working with the unseen. After a life-changing awakening at age 30, where she began seeing spirits and energy. Venus committed to help clear those energies that do not belong. Venus is also the founder of the Vibrational Flow Method and brings a unique blend of spiritual insight and grounded practicality, having once owned and operated a construction company and insurance agency. Today, she brings that blend into the world of real estate, partnering with agents to clear the energy that can prevent homes from selling. Through her seven-step Vibrational Flow system, she helps properties release old stories and attract the buyers they’re truly meant for. Venus creates a grounded, compassionate space for exploring what’s really going on behind the veil. Connect with Venus Castleberg: Facebook main: https://www.facebook.com/venusmariecastleberg Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/venuscastleberg/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venus_castleberg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/venus-castleberg/ Website: https://www.venuscastleberg.com/ Book: Here To Forever on Amazon Podcast: Awakening Adventures- Where podcasts are found. Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone who needs it, and please leave a rating or review — your support helps Dave leave a positive mark on the world, one conversation at a time.
E305
Aug 28, 2026
40:21
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