Intrepid Storytelling

What happens when the things you were told about yourself as a child become the beliefs that shape your entire life? And what happens when you finally find the courage to challenge those beliefs and rediscover who you really are?
In this powerful episode of Intrepid Storytelling, host Deanna Powell sits down with Lena Fein, author of Shattering the Mirror, to explore childhood trauma, emotional abuse, shame, self-discovery, and the lifelong journey of healing. After decades in the technology industry, Lena began reclaiming the parts of herself she had hidden away, discovering that it is never too late to find your authentic self and live life differently.
Lena shares deeply personal memories of growing up in a household where criticism and shame shaped her self-image, including the painful experience of having her childhood diary read aloud to her family. That moment left her feeling betrayed and convinced that something was wrong with her. For years, she focused on achievement and intellect while burying the vulnerable parts of herself.
At 51, following her mother's death, Lena began a journey of self-discovery that would change her life. Through therapy, movement, dance, singing, writing, and other healing practices, she started reclaiming the passions and pieces of her identity she had been taught to suppress.
Lena also opens up about how childhood experiences influenced her adult relationships, why shame can keep us from sharing our stories, and how writing her memoir helped her reclaim her voice. She discusses a childhood injury that went unrecognized as a head injury until decades later, the importance of authentic human connection, and the profound difference it makes when someone truly sees us with kindness and compassion.
One of the most beautiful messages from this conversation is that it is never too late to discover who you really are, reclaim your voice, and show up in the world as a blessing. Whether you're working through childhood wounds, navigating difficult family relationships, healing from emotional abuse, questioning long-held beliefs about yourself, or simply wondering whether a new chapter is possible, Lena's story offers hope that personal growth and transformation can happen at any age.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:- Childhood trauma, emotional abuse, and the lasting impact of criticism- How shame affects self-worth, confidence, and the ability to be authentic- The experience of having childhood privacy violated and feeling betrayed- Lena Fein's memoir, Shattering the Mirror, and the courage it took to publish her story- Rediscovering your inner child and reclaiming the passions you were told you couldn't pursue- How therapy, freeform dance, singing, and writing became part of Lena's healing journey- The connection between childhood experiences and adult romantic relationships- Recognizing inherited patterns and learning to respond differently- Forgiveness, grief, and finding new meaning after the death of a parent- Why being truly seen, heard, and treated with kindness matters- Embracing imperfection and developing resilience through self-discovery- The importance of telling your story and discovering that you're not alone- Why it's never too late to find your authentic self at 68 and beyond
CHAPTERS:00:00 – Introduction: Meet Lena Fein, Author of Shattering the Mirror01:23 – Why Lena Finally Decided to Tell Her Story02:35 – The Healing Power of Sharing Our Stories03:16 – Childhood Memories and the Beginning of Lena's Journey05:10 – Why She Wrote *Shattering the Mirror*06:07 – A Childhood Accident and the Trauma That Stayed With Her07:40 – The Experiences That Taught Lena to Hide Her Voice08:44 – The Childhood Diary Incident That Created Deep Shame10:59 – How Childhood Criticism Shapes Self-Worth11:06 – Growing Up With Emotional Abuse and Learning to Cope11:43 – Her Mother's Death and the Beginning of a Personal Awakening12:23 – Reclaiming the Parts of Herself She Had Hidden Away13:10 – Healing Childhood Trauma Later in Life15:20 – Feeling Like the Odd One Out and Learning to Accept Herself16:27 – Discovering a Childhood Head Injury Decades Later18:09 – How Early Experiences Shaped Lena's Self-Image20:36 – An Extraordinary Memory and a Remarkable Medical Connection22:15 – The Power of Presence, Compassion, and Being Truly Seen24:02 – How Better Breathing Changed Lena's Experience of Meditation25:35 – Why Human Connection Matters More Than Credentials26:20 – Disability Awareness, Kindness, and How We Treat Others27:05 – Breaking Learned Patterns and Choosing Kindness28:14 – Aging, Gratitude, and Finding Joy in the Present Moment29:13 – Finding Meaning and Being a Blessing to Others30:30 – Why So Many People Hide Their Pain Behind a Smile31:27 – Leaving the Tech Industry and Exploring New Possibilities32:03 – Rediscovering Dance, Singing, and Long-Buried Passions33:11 – How a Supportive Writing Circle Helped Lena Find Her Voice34:18 – Publishing Her Memoir and Facing the Fear of Shame34:47 – Telling Your Truth Even When Others Don't Understand36:15 – Reclaiming Your Identity and Challenging Old Beliefs37:15 – Embracing Imperfection, Courage, and Resilience38:21 – Why Being Fully Known Helps Us Feel Fully Loved38:52 – Forgiveness and Seeing Our Parents Through a Different Lens40:31 – How Generational Trauma Shaped Earlier Parenting42:21 – Breaking the Silence Around Childhood Experiences43:45 – How Shame Keeps Us From Sharing Our Stories44:51 – Childhood Trauma, Adult Relationships, and the Need to Be Chosen46:53 – Learning to Show Up as Your Authentic Self48:13 – Lena's Life Message: It's Never Too Late to Find Yourself49:11 – Where to Find *Shattering the Mirror* and Connect With Lena49:51 – Closing Thoughts: Reclaim Your Voice and Your Heart
If Lena's story resonates with you, please LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE to Intrepid Storytelling, and SHARE this episode with someone who may need to hear her message. Watch until the end, leave a comment, and tell us: What part of yourself are you ready to reclaim?
ABOUT LENA FEIN:Lena Fein is the author of Shattering the Mirror, a memoir about childhood experiences, shame, self-discovery, and the journey toward healing and authenticity. After a career in the technology industry, Lena embraced new ways of expressing herself through dance, singing, writing, and deeper personal exploration. Her story is a reminder that we can challenge the beliefs we've carried for decades and create a more authentic, compassionate way of living.
Connect with Lena:Website: www.shatteringthemirror.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenafein.author/
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-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9eYouTube: www.youtube.com/@IntrepidStorytelling#LenaFein #ShatteringTheMirror #IntrepidStorytelling #ChildhoodTrauma #EmotionalHealing #HealingFromTrauma #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #AuthenticSelf #OvercomingShame #EmotionalAbuse #InnerChildHealing #Resilience #Memoir #NeverTooLate

What happens when a Bible study that seems harmless slowly becomes a high-control religious group? And how do you recognize manipulation when you genuinely believe you’re doing the right thing?
On this episode of Intrepid Storytelling, host Deanna Powell sits down with Chris Vishoot to share his experience inside Shincheonji, New Heavens, New Earth, also known as the Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony—a controversial South Korean religious movement he describes as a cult. Chris opens up about how he was recruited, the warning signs he didn’t initially recognize, and the long process of questioning what he had been taught and ultimately leaving the group in July 2021.
This conversation explores cult recruitment, religious manipulation, psychological control, indoctrination, and recovery from a high-control group. Chris explains how an ordinary-looking Bible study gradually became more demanding, why secrecy and hidden membership made it difficult to understand what was happening, and how fear-based teachings, love bombing, and pressure to devote more time to the group affected his life. Chris also discusses Dr. Steve Hassan's BITE Model of authoritarian control, the sunk-cost fallacy, gaslighting, social isolation, sleep deprivation, and the importance of asking thoughtful questions instead of confronting or shaming someone who may be involved in a high-control group.
Most importantly, he shares how concerned friends and roommates helped him begin questioning his experience—and how research, speaking out, and connecting with other former members became part of his journey forward.
00:00 Introduction | Intrepid Storytelling00:50 Meet Chris Vishoot: Leaving a Korean High-Control Religious Group01:57 Why Chris Is Sharing His Story02:33 Red Flags of Religious Control and Abuse04:18 Understanding Psychological Trauma04:47 Growing Up in the Seattle Area07:09 Doomsday Beliefs and Early Religious Influences10:10 The BITE Model: How High-Control Groups Influence People11:39 Complex PTSD, Flashbacks, and Healing14:29 From Childhood Interests to Finding Purpose18:00 Meeting Someone Who Introduced Him to Bible Study20:41 Shincheonji Beliefs and the Book of Revelation22:35 Discovering the Group’s Identity and Hidden Members23:28 Indoctrination, Fear, and the Sunk-Cost Fallacy25:39 Secrecy, Reporting, and Recruitment Tactics27:05 Church Infiltration and the “Wisdom of Hiding”31:19 High-Demand Expectations and Personal Sacrifice31:43 Love Bombing: Praise, Belonging, and Group Pressure34:05 Comparing MLMs and High-Control Groups35:56 How Friends Helped Chris Question His Experience39:00 Recruitment Pressure, Sleep Loss, and Growing Doubts41:42 Allegations of Extreme Training and Physical Abuse45:00 COVID, Recovery, and a Return to Normal Life46:37 Comparing Shincheonji with Other Religious Movements48:28 Relationships, Marriage, and Pressure from Leaders49:39 Researching the Group’s History and Teachings50:43 Shincheonji’s Global Reach and Chris’s Research51:45 Leaving the Group in July 202152:51 Cybersecurity, Group Chats, and Helping Others Leave53:19 Speaking Out and Building a Support Network56:13 The Upcoming Documentary on Korean Religious Groups58:46 Helping Loved Ones Without Confrontation1:00:06 Warning Signs to Watch for in Bible Studies1:01:46 Fear, Faith, and Rebuilding Religious Beliefs1:02:21 Final Reflections and Thank You
RECOGNIZING THE WARNING SIGNS:A group may not identify itself as a cult, and its recruitment process may initially look like friendship, dating, community, or a desire to learn more about faith. Chris explains why it can be difficult to recognize a pattern of control from the inside—and why curiosity, independent research, and trusted relationships can make a difference. If you’re concerned about a friend or family member, this episode offers perspective on approaching the conversation with genuine concern, asking open-ended questions, and creating space for them to think critically without feeling attacked.
EXPLORE MOREBible Vaccine Center: https://biblevaccinecenter.com/Chris's Website: https://closerlookinitiative.comChris's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exposingthecultsChris's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biblevaccineChris's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biblevaccinecenter/Mitch Cunico's Podcast, Cult Audit: https://www.youtube.com/@Cult_AuditCult Expert, Steve Hassan's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@drstevenhassan
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-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9eYouTube: www.youtube.com/@intrepidstorytelling

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Jacob Berman to explore biblical scholarship, resisting religious conversion, and the ancient origins of monotheism.Jacob Berman shares his unique story of growing up in Texas, navigating a religiously non-dogmatic household, and resisting conversion to Christianity during his teenage years. Through critical examination of ancient texts like Deuteronomy, he uncovered polytheistic roots and the evolving concept of hell, which dismantled the fears often used to enforce religious compliance. Facing social pressure and dogmatic assumptions, he navigated his intellectual independence by grounding his worldview in critical history rather than fear. Today, as host of the History Valley podcast, he dedicates his platform to scholarship, encouraging listeners to question dogma and pursue truth independently.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling01:06 Jacob Berman's Unique Perspective on Faith02:30 The Journey of a Confused Atheist04:23 Discovering Critical Scholarship06:15 Exploring Sheol and the Concept of Hell10:34 Transitioning from Gaming to Scholarship12:25 The Evolution of History Valley Podcast16:42 Contradictions in Biblical Narratives22:18 Personal Reflections on Biblical Understanding30:02 Future Aspirations and Academic Goals33:22 Legacy Message: The Importance of QuestioningFollow and support JacobX: x.com/HistoryValleyTikTok: tiktok.com/@historyvalley?lang=enFacebook: facebook.com/Jacob.Berman.925Instagram: instagram.com/jacob31298Patreon: patreon.com/HistoryValleyThe Historical Jesus Group: facebook.com/groups/1038530526485151History Valley Group: facebook.com/groups/639724514390191Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytellingSubmit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.comListen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:PodBean: 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 #JacobBerman #BiblicalScholarship #ResistingConversion #HistoryValley #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Leilani Wells to explore non-traditional paths to success, radical self-reliance, and reclaiming personal agency.Picking up immediately following her release from juvenile placement, Leilani Wells details how working travel carnival jobs at age 15 became her ticket out of a volatile environment. She candidly shares her journey through standing up to group home bullies, breaking away from traditional expectations to study in London, living van life across America, and navigating single motherhood by choice. Concluding with a powerful masterclass on core values and mental sovereignty, Leilani lays out how honoring commitments to oneself is the ultimate key to unshakeable confidence.Chapters:00:00 Building Confidence Through Self-Discovery02:13 Experiences in Juvenile Hall and Placement Homes05:33 The Impact of Bullying on Identity10:47 The Loss of Personal Memories13:01 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth23:26 Pursuing Education and Adventure30:59 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth35:37 Reflections on Love and Commitment39:35 The Journey of Self-Discovery44:16 Embracing Non-Traditional Paths52:40 Cultural Experiences and Travel Adventures01:02:11 Exploring Heritage and Travel Dreams01:03:35 Life Journey and Personal Fulfillment01:05:04 Motherhood and Life Choices01:07:27 Core Values and Personal Rules01:11:21 The Impact of Cheating and Relationships01:12:16 Developing a Strong Moral Compass01:18:09 Building Confidence and Self-Reliance01:25:15 Fighting Against Societal Programming01:26:30 Connecting with the Sandbox CollectiveFollow LeilaniWebsite: https://leilaniwells.com/Agency website: https://leilanimedia.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leilanimwells/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lani.m.wellsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leilanimwells/X: https://twitter.com/leilanimwellsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leilanimwellsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7-zaS1i4e0BUvX7vDoHt6QPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/leilanimwells/Podcast: https://leilaniwells.com/podcast/Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytellingSubmit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.comListen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:PodBean: 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 #LeilaniWells #SelfReliance #VanLife #MindsetShift #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Leilani Wells to explore complex family secrets, teenage homelessness, and corrupt juvenile justice systems.
Leilani Wells opens up about growing up amidst volatile domestic altercations, hidden paternity truths, and a search for cultural identity in Southern California. Driven to run away as a teenager to escape a toxic home environment, she navigated street life and couch surfing before being handed over to a corrupt judge who jailed non-violent runaways. From facing 30 days in juvenile hall and the trauma of being shackled at age 14 to uncovering systemic corruption and advocating for prison reform, Leilani candidly shares the raw realities that shaped her resilience.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling02:10 The Journey of Leilani Wells04:05 The Importance of Sharing Stories07:10 Childhood Experiences and Family Dynamics15:50 Discovering Identity and Belonging22:19 The Impact of Parental Relationships27:10 Navigating Complex Family Relationships34:51 Childhood Sports and Friendships36:48 Influences and Observations in Early Life38:24 Navigating Privilege and Hardship40:20 The Decision to Run Away42:36 Experiences of Running Away46:36 Teenage Rebellion and Experimentation49:43 Spiritual Connections and Near-Death Experiences55:06 Self-Discovery and Personal Growth01:00:05 Judicial System and Its Impact on Youth01:08:17 Friendship in Adversity01:11:15 Reflections on Trauma and Resilience01:12:55 Understanding PTSD and Its Impact01:14:51 The Journey of Healing and Accountability01:17:03 The Power of Storytelling and Public Opinion01:20:53 Finding Strength in Vulnerability01:23:02 The Importance of Advocacy and Reform01:28:40 Corruption in the Justice System01:35:59 The Path to Healing and Empowerment
Video of Judge Robert Dorn Sentencing Kids to Jail for Running Away or Missing School: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAHyzWnvZFB/?igsi=YmhsNHM1dzhxOW9l
Article of Mayor Robert (Roosevelt) Dorn Pleading Gulity to Corruption: https://www.google.com/search?q=judge+robert+dorn+inglewood&client=ms-android-tmus-us-rvc3&hs=WGCB&sca_esv=c18f865cebe507ff&source=android-browser&sxsrf=APpeQntCcoAn52j6L0zxoBf71Hpa7BHFJA%3A1787944071227&ei=h9yRau6kDfqLruEP2sm12QI&biw=384&bih=742&oq=judge+robert+dorn+ingl&gs_lp=EhNtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1zZXJwIhZqdWRnZSByb2JlcnQgZG9ybiBpbmdsKgIIAjIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigATIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABSOk8UPcOWL4xcAF4AJABAJgBlAGgAdUHqgEDMC43uAEByAEA-AEBmAIHoALsBsICBRAhGKsCwgIFECEYnwXCAggQABiJBRiiBJgDAIgGAZIHAzEuNqAH7B2yBwMwLja4B-gGwgcHMC4xLjUuMcgHJYAIAQ&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-serp
Follow LeilaniWebsite: https://leilaniwells.com/Agency website: https://leilanimedia.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leilanimwells/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lani.m.wellsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leilanimwells/X: https://twitter.com/leilanimwellsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leilanimwellsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7-zaS1i4e0BUvX7vDoHt6QPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/leilanimwells/Podcast: https://leilaniwells.com/podcast/
Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytellingSubmit 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-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 #LeilaniWells #JuvenileJustice #TeenHomelessness #SystemicCorruption #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Fausto Castellanos to talk about his Grooming, Child Sexual Abuse, Crystal Meth Addiction, and Radical Forgiveness.Fausto grew up in an environment shaped by paternal narcissistic abuse and early childhood sexual trauma, developing chameleon-like coping mechanisms and the need for attention and acceptance to survive. As a teenager, his emotional pain escalated into a dangerous spiral of alcohol, ecstasy, and crystal meth dependency, leading to psych ward holds, near-fatal overdoses, and severe suicidal ideation. After reaching ultimate rock bottom, Fausto confronted his deeply ingrained codependency and pursued radical forgiveness, transforming his traumatic past into clinical work as a motivational speaker and counselor. His narrative exposes the raw truth of overcoming severe addiction, family dysfunction, and trauma to reclaim personal agency and break generational dysfunction.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning01:02 The Journey of Hope and Healing03:25 Childhood Struggles and Family Dynamics05:19 Experiences of Abuse and Its Impact09:54 Seeking Acceptance and Identity12:40 Navigating Relationships and Codependency15:52 The Role of Parenting and Communication19:32 Education on Safety and Awareness21:43 Understanding Self-Worth and Empowerment26:16 The Early Struggles: A Journey Begins30:31 The Allure of Substance: Finding Acceptance32:30 Escalation: From Partying to Harder Drugs36:48 The Dark Side: Grooming and Abuse45:16 Hitting Rock Bottom: A Desperate Plea for Help49:07 A Turning Point: Finding Hope in Desperation53:38 The Power of Self-Advocacy and Emotional Healing54:07 The Journey to Sobriety Begins55:27 Sharing Truth and Finding Community Support56:26 The Importance of Mentorship in Recovery57:54 Embracing Self-Help and Personal Growth01:00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Setting New Goals01:01:48 The Reality of Recovery: Facing Challenges01:08:20 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Sobriety01:10:43 The Role of Forgiveness in Healing01:12:58 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on RelationshipsCONNECT WITH HOPE DEALER FAUSTO:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HopeDealerFaustoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/faustocastellanoss/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopedealerfausto/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hopedealerfaustoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fausto-castellanos/Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytellingSubmit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.comListen to the show on your favorite podcast platform:PodBean: 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 #FaustoCastellanos #NarcissisticAbuse #AddictionRecovery #RadicalForgiveness #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #HopeDealerFausto

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Richelle Bauman to explore surviving childhood abuse, escaping violent relationships, and reclaiming life as a paralegal.Richelle Bauman shares her harrowing journey of growing up amidst severe domestic violence, child abuse, and a broken foster care system. After enduring traumatic instability, family betrayal, and horrific physical threats from abusive partners, she made devastating sacrifices to survive and protect her children. Through perseverance, mentorship, and legal self-education, Richelle reclaimed her life and established a thriving career as a paralegal dedicated to helping others navigate crisis.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning02:06 Rochelle's Early Life and Family Background04:59 Childhood Trauma and Domestic Violence11:03 Foster Care Experiences and Systemic Challenges22:07 Adoption Journey and New Beginnings29:58 Confronting the Past and Healing34:58 The Cycle of Domestic Violence40:01 Adoption and Its Emotional Toll46:29 Breaking Free from Toxic Relationships01:02:10 Finding Strength in Legal Advocacy01:07:17 Resilience and Hope for the FutureSupport 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 #RichelleBauman #ChildhoodTrauma #DomesticViolence #FosterCare #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Mirella Stoyanova to explore trauma recovery, international adoption, and identity reclamation.Mirella Stoyanova is a writer and licensed therapist who experienced a harrowing childhood in Bulgaria, witnessing a tragic murder-suicide involving her parents at just three years old. Following this trauma, she was adopted twice, first by her grandmother in Sofia to shield her from a paternal custody battle, and later by an upper-middle-class American family in Seattle[5]. Plunged into a new culture, Mirella quickly lost her native language and Bulgarian identity, a systemic consequence of international adoption practices of the era that failed to center the child's origin story. Through years of deep identity work and a career dedicated to social work, she ultimately reclaimed her agency, learned to see the complex humanity in her past, and now helps other survivors navigate trauma and reclaim their authentic selves.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling02:07 Mirella's Journey Begins05:57 The Impact of Trauma and Loss12:04 Adoption and New Beginnings17:47 Cultural Identity and Language Loss24:01 The Role of Adoptive Parents27:18 Understanding Open Adoption and Its Impact31:02 Growing Up in a Unique Family Structure35:15 Navigating Identity and Cultural Heritage37:33 The Journey into Social Work and Therapy41:48 Specialties in Therapy: Trauma and Identity45:34 Finding Power in Adversity51:49 Connecting with the Therapist: Resources and SupportConnect with MirellaWebsite: http://www.mirellastoyanova.comSupport 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 #MirellaStoyanova #TraumaRecovery #InternationalAdoption #IdentityReclamation #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

In this episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Jeff Kohler to explore childhood sexual abuse, military service in Iraq, and his path to healing and legislative activism.Jeff Kohler, a Navy veteran and author, shares the devastating reality of being molested by a medical provider at age ten and the subsequent systemic failure when he attempted to report the abuse at fifteen. He recounts navigating years of low self-esteem, turning to military service to rebuild himself, and facing the silent terror of mortar attacks in Iraq, only to find further frustration within the VA mental health system upon returning home.Despite being silenced by medical boards and police who initially buried his reports, he eventually turned his anger into advocacy.Jeff details how finding community in programs like Save a Warrior and testifying for Senate Bill 109 in Ohio allowed him to reclaim his voice and work to protect future generations from predatory medical professional.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning02:04 Jeff Kohler's Journey Begins05:12 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact15:18 Joining the Military: A New Chapter21:19 Experiences in Boot Camp and Deployment29:06 Combat Experiences and Their Aftermath34:32 Navigating VA Challenges39:29 Transitioning to Civilian Life44:03 Career Path and Purpose48:22 Reporting Abuse and Seeking Justice54:28 Resilience and Life Lessons01:00:44 Healing Through Community and SupportBuy Jeff's Book: https://amzn.to/4crEOOjWatch Forrest Lang's Episode: https://youtu.be/3c45TO0WNiU?si=m-zC5g2SNBwLGbUnClark Frederick's Episode on Soft While Underbelly:https://youtu.be/9gTedz_OCZY?si=Q_5GViKBJ4RDnPx6Support 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 #JeffKohler #ChildhoodAbuse #IraqVeteran #SaveAWarrior #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #2920MarketAveCantonOhio
Jeff Kohler

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