Intrepid Storytelling

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Sam Squanch with PP Washington to explore confronting childhood abuse, hunting online child predators, and protecting kids in the digital age.Sam open-heartedly shares the dark reality of his childhood abuse and the years of self-destruction and meth addiction that followed. After battling through his personal trauma and finding sobriety, he set out to confront his abuser twenty-five years later, a pivotal release that sparked his current life's work. Now, as a full-time catcher with Predator Poachers Washington, Sam works on the front lines to expose online child predators and deliver crucial evidence to law enforcement. Through this raw and intense conversation, Sam highlights critical systemic legal hurdles and provides parents with indispensable, real-world advice on digital safety and child protection.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning02:00 The Importance of Raising Awareness04:20 Childhood Experiences and Early Signs of Abuse11:02 Confronting the Past: The Journey Begins17:08 The First Catch: A Turning Point23:59 The Aftermath of Confrontation and Healing29:54 The Impact of Trauma on Life Choices31:45 Journey to Sobriety35:29 The Call to Action Against Predators41:11 The Importance of Support and Community49:02 Navigating Emotions and Vulnerability55:03 The Evolution of Predator Catching01:01:39 The Mechanics of Catching Predators01:04:00 The Dark Side of Online Gaming01:07:05 Legal Boundaries and Law Enforcement Collaboration01:09:50 The Role of Decoys in Predator Prevention01:12:09 Community Awareness and Support01:14:54 The Impact of Technology on Child Safety01:18:10 The Art of Catching Predators01:24:01 Educating Children on Online Safety01:31:58 Raising Awareness and Support for VictimsConnect with Sam:https://short.fo/ppwashingtonWatch early and uncensored:https://predatorpoacherswashington.locals.com/Watch Predator Poachers Washington on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@PPWashingtonDownload the Predator Finder app:https://offenderapps.com/predpoachersSupport Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytellingSubmit Your Story: Email us at intrepidstorytelling@gmail.comListen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:YouTube: www.youtube.com/@intrepidstorytellingPodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e#IntrepidStorytelling #Sam #OnlineSafety #ChildProtection #PredatorPoachers #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Laurie Thibert to explore the CATR Theory of relationships, navigating corporate betrayal, and parenting through trauma and addiction.Laurie Thibert shares her journey from being a peacekeeper in a family of eight to facing high-stakes corporate sabotage and severe personal adversity. After being scapegoated and threatened by her business partners over ethical disagreements, Laurie spent years under the weight of their retaliation before learning the truth about their deception. Amidst rebuilding her career, she faced the intense challenges of raising an adopted son from Ghana and helping his best friend survive multiple life-threatening drug overdoses with Narcan. Through these trials, Laurie developed the CATR Theory, a relational framework of communication, accountability, trust, and respect, proving that healing and resilience begin with intentional, love-centered boundaries.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling01:04 Laurie Thibert: A Journey of Relationships02:50 Childhood Lessons on Relationships05:23 The Nurtured Heart Approach10:54 Transforming Relationships Through Recognition16:04 The Importance of Acknowledgment20:43 Navigating Professional Relationships25:05 Lessons from Corporate Betrayal30:31 The CATR Theory for Strong Relationships40:58 Creating a Life of Healing and Growth45:23 Navigating Hard Times with Hope50:57 Finding Gratitude in Adversity56:04 The Importance of Asking for Help01:00:54 Building Bridges Through Communication01:05:13 The CATR Theory: A Framework for Healthy Relationships01:10:48 Embracing Possibilities and New BeginningsLaurie's website: www.AlignedInsightsMatter.comThe CATR Theory™ book – Amazon, Kindle, and Audible (read by the author)Buy the book: https://amzn.to/4g2w6HjThe CATR Theory™ Book Club Guide & Personal WorkbookBuy the workbook: www.CATRYourRelationships.comBetween Us Card Game: www.BuiltByOT.comSupport Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling Submit Your Story: Email us at intrepidstorytelling@gmail.comListen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9eYouTube: www.youtube.com/@intrepidstorytelling#IntrepidStorytelling #LaurieThibert #CATRTheory #CorporateBetrayal #AddictionRecovery #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Laurie Thibert to explore international adoption, intuitive guidance, and the true cost of human connection.
 
Laurie Thibert traveled to Ghana to build water wells, completely unaware that the trip would upend her carefully planned corporate life. When a profound inner voice told her she had just met her son at a local children's home, Laurie faced a grueling, years-long international adoption process as a single woman. She navigated systemic barriers, the sudden collapse of her startup career, and intense financial impact just to bring him home. Together, Laurie and Deanna explore the raw realities of acting on deep intuition, building chosen families out of shattered circumstances, and finding resilience when every safety net disappears.
 
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling
05:40 Laurie Thibert: A Journey Through Relationships
11:50 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics
18:31 Navigating Life's Challenges and Career Transitions
24:51 The Importance of Relationships in Business
30:04 Lessons from Youth and Personal Growth
32:48 Finding Hope in Tough Times
34:16 Navigating Relationships and Sacrifices
36:31 Core Values and Self-Awareness
40:44 The Journey of Sobriety
44:02 Clarity and Boundaries in Life Choices
52:09 The Power of Connection and Community
56:57 A Life-Changing Trip to Ghana
01:05:31 Navigating Personal and Professional Alignments
01:11:11 Building Relationships Through Challenges
01:17:08 The Power of Connection and Community
01:23:03 Embracing Life's Uncertainties and Growth
01:30:14 Looking Forward: The Journey Ahead
 
Lauries's Webste: www.AlignedInsightsMatter.com
 
The CATR Theory™ book – Amazon, Kindle, and Audible (read by the author)
BUY THE BOOK: https://amzn.to/4g2w6Hj
 
The CATR Theory™ Book Club Guide & Personal Workbook
BUY THE WORKBOOK: www.CATRYourRelationships.com
 
Between Us Card Game: www.BuiltByOT.com
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
 
Submit Your Story:
Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #LaurieThibert #InternationalAdoption #Intuition #Resilience #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Nancy Kohne to explore narcissistic abuse, surviving childhood trauma, and protecting your family from a predator.
 
Nancy Kohne grew up acting as the peacemaker in a volatile, alcoholic household, which conditioned her to ignore red flags and try to save broken men. This vulnerability made her the perfect target for a manipulative narcissist who infiltrated her life and isolated her under the guise of being the ideal partner. Her harrowing reality unraveled when her teenage daughter revealed a decade of hidden abuse at the hands of Nancy's husband. Escaping the marriage and fighting a flawed legal system, Nancy ultimately reclaimed her voice by writing her memoir, "Shut Up and Smile," turning her family's devastating trauma into a story of resilience and survival.
 
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling
01:00 Nancy Coney's Journey of Resilience
02:44 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics
08:12 Transitioning into Adulthood and Motherhood
10:37 Becoming a Single Mother
15:05 Navigating New Relationships
20:51 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships
24:06 The Impact on Children and Family Dynamics
27:14 The Nightmare Unfolds
30:57 Facing the Truth
34:44 The Aftermath of Abuse
39:43 Finding Strength in Adversity
46:48 Writing for Healing
50:47 A Message of Resilience
 
Connect with Nancy:
Website: https://www.shutupandsmile.com/
 
Buy the book:
Shut Up And Smile: https://amzn.to/4pj6GJQ
 
Listen to the Podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-and-smile/id1714190108
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3K09WnWTolz07LI8nOSjpC?si=8dd3f9d0ac4d416f
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
 
Submit Your Story:
Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #NancyKohne #NarcissisticAbuse #SurvivingTrauma #ProtectingChildren #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ginine Emily Smith to explore surviving extreme trauma, escaping a serial killer, and the raw reality of living a double life.
 
Ginine Emily Smith lived a profoundly fragmented life, projecting corporate success and musical talent on the outside while secretly battling crippling grief, cocaine addiction, and systemic abuse. Following the sudden and tragic death of her father, Smith was thrust into a desperate survival mode that eventually placed her in the direct crosshairs of an active serial killer. By confronting her darkest realities and experiencing a profound near-death encounter where she flatlined, she ultimately learned to integrate her fractured identities and step out of the shadows. Now, she uses the harrowing truth of her past to empower other women to leave toxic environments and reclaim their voices without shame.
 
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling
02:46 The Power of Sharing Stories
05:56 Janine's Early Life and Family Dynamics
09:11 The Impact of Loss and Grief
12:02 Living in Survival Mode
14:56 A Life-Changing Encounter
18:13 Finding Faith and Recovery
21:06 The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery
23:50 The Ripple Effect of Gratitude
27:03 The Importance of Vulnerability in Storytelling
29:54 Integration and Transformation
34:08 The Power of Storytelling
39:54 Embracing Authenticity and Connection
47:01 Women Supporting Women
53:30 Letting Go of Toxic Relationships
01:00:16 The Ripple Effect of Sharing Stories
 
Connect with Ginine:
Be a Part of the Ripple Effect: https://go.heartsinsync.live/legacy
 
Listen to her podcast:
Rise & Roar with the Badass Lioness: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-roar-with-the-badass-lioness/id1843974560
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
 
Submit Your Story:
Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #GinineEmilySmith #SurvivingTrauma #AddictionRecovery #HealingJourney #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Brittney Lorenz to explore trauma-induced psychosis, surviving sexual assault, and the criminalization of mental illness.
 
Brittney Lorenz experienced a rapid descent into homelessness during the pandemic, culminating in multiple devastating physical and sexual assaults. The severe trauma triggered a months-long state of psychosis, leading to her wrongful arrest and incarceration rather than receiving medical care. While trapped in solitary confinement battling severe delusions, Brittney was forced to navigate a broken legal system completely unequipped to handle mental health crises. Today, she advocates for profound systemic reform, urging for mental health professionals to work alongside law enforcement to prevent further tragedies.
 
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling
01:20 Brittany's Journey Begins
04:52 Early Life and Military Experience
06:44 The Desire for Reform in Mental Health
07:10 The First Encounter with Violence
11:07 The Aftermath of Trauma
16:12 The Second Encounter and Its Impact
19:15 The Struggles with Mental Health in the System
26:37 Life in Jail and the Struggle for Sanity
28:16 Isolation and Trust Issues
30:54 The Power of the Mind
32:47 Reality vs. Delusion
35:21 Facing the Consequences
39:41 Advocating for Oneself
40:33 Mental Health Court Experience
43:19 Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom
46:14 The Need for Systemic Change
49:51 Personal Stories of Resilience
54:33 A Call for Compassion and Reform
 
Connect with Brittney:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittney.lorenz.2025
 
Support Brittney's Mission:
Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Brittney-Lorenz-1
 
Buy the book:
When Cops Try To Play Counselor: https://amzn.to/4aAeIrK
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
 
Submit Your Story:
Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #BrittneyLorenz #MentalHealthReform #TraumaSurvivor #PrisonReform #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ted Novak to explore leaving Mormonism, biblical contradictions, and finding life after religion.
 
Ted Novak spent over five decades as a devout member, Elder's Quorum president, and seminary teacher in the Mormon church, completely trusting the foundations of his faith. When undeniable historical evidence regarding the Book of Abraham and the church's deeply racist early doctrines surfaced, his worldview collapsed. Confronting the harsh reality of Joseph Smith's fabrications and later biblical contradictions, Ted navigated the painful process of deconstructing his lifelong beliefs. Ultimately, he found true freedom, a secular moral framework, and a profound health transformation outside the confines of organized religion.
 
Connect with Ted:
Website: https://tedshealthclub.com/
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #TedNovak #ExMormon #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis to explore the Ridglan Farms beagle rescue, the harsh realities of animal testing, and standing against state suppression.
 
Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis channeled the survival spirit of her ancestors into a lifelong fight for the voiceless. Confronting the realities of testing facilities, she and fellow activists faced tear gas and rubber bullets while attempting to rescue beagles specifically bred for their docile nature. The conversation uncovers the systemic protection granted to the animal testing industry and the intense physical and legal hurdles activists endure. Despite witnessing immense suffering and facing aggressive opposition, Alexandria’s journey highlights the profound resilience required to demand justice for vulnerable creatures.
 
Connect with Alexandria:
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/keating-sofiakis.bsky.social
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandriakeatingsofiakis?igsh=cGR0Z3J1bng1b2pp
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexandriaKeating-Sofiakis
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Pbsgj2D3F/
Website: https://www.alexandriasofiakis.com/
 
Get Involved:
https://www.directactioneverywhere.com/
 
Buy Cruelty-Free:
https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/list-of-cruelty-free-brands/
Buy Cruelty-Free on Amazon:
https://amzn.to/4aA6tvM
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
 
Submit Your Story:
Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #AlexandriaKeatingSofiakis #AnimalRights #BeagleRescue #AnimalTesting #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Allison Fine to explore surviving severe domestic violence, navigating methamphetamine-induced psychosis, and the systemic failures of mental health crisis intervention.
 
Allison Fine dedicated her life to community advocacy and social services, only to face an unimaginable test when her husband secretly spiraled into a methamphetamine-fueled psychotic break. During a desperate attempt to call emergency psychiatric services for help, Allison was brutally stabbed nine times by the man she loved while actively on the phone with crisis responders. Her harrowing fight to survive exposed the glaring inadequacies of emergency mental health interventions and the lack of immediate resources for families dealing with severe mental illness. Today, she navigates the lasting physical and emotional trauma of that near-fatal betrayal through unapologetic community activism and stand-up comedy.
 
Allison's Website: https://dot.cards/allirealfunnyaf
 
Follow Allison on her social media accounts:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonfine2378
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allirealfunnyaf/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@allirealfunnyaf
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #AllisonFine #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #MentalHealthCrisis #TraumaHealing #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Kevin P. Henry to explore surviving childhood trauma, true crime family secrets, and systemic racism.
 
Kevin grew up believing a fabricated tragedy designed to shield him from the horrific truth that his half-siblings were murdered by their step-father, who set their house on fire to cover up the crime. Uncovering this dark family secret became the catalyst for his lifelong career confronting the most predatory behaviors of human nature, including human trafficking, severe child abuse, and financial devastation. This conversation rigorously examines the agonizing psychological toll of navigating society's ugliest realities, the dangerous ignorance fueled by living in isolated societal "bubbles," and the absolute necessity of forcing uncomfortable dialogues to dismantle generational bias.
 
Chapters:
00:00 The Impact of Childhood Trauma
09:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose
19:45 Navigating Conversations on Race and Inclusion
29:46 The Challenges of DEI Work and Humanity's Dark Side
31:39 Understanding Historical Context and Personal Triggers
34:18 The Evolution of Racial Terminology
37:29 The Importance of Identity and Cultural Understanding
39:31 Navigating Stereotypes and Lived Experiences
45:07 Debunking Misconceptions about DEI
49:17 Equity vs. Equality in Opportunities
53:01 The Value of Lived Experience in Hiring
56:09 The Role of Diversity in Community Engagement
01:00:19 Politics and Its Impact on Business and Community
01:04:03 Understanding DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
01:11:17 The Importance of Education in Addressing Racism
01:20:13 The Relevance of Black Lives Matter Today
01:28:44 Empowering the Next Generation for Change
 
Kevin's Podcast: https://allthewayauthentic.podbean.com/
Kevin's Website: https://kevinphenry.com/
 
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling
Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com
 
Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:
PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e
 
#IntrepidStorytelling #KevinPHenry #ChildhoodTrauma #SystemicBias #TrueCrimeFamily #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #SWU #documentary