Episodes
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Amey to explore her journey of self-discovery and empowerment following the abrupt end of her 29-year marriage. Amey candidly shares the challenges of navigating life as a mother, wife, and professional, only to find herself grappling with an identity crisis after her divorce. Despite the initial pain and grief, Amey turned her circumstances into a catalyst for personal growth and transformation, eventually helping other women rediscover their authentic selves.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
Key Takeaways
Turning Pain Into Power: Amey's divorce, though initially devastating, became a springboard for her greatest personal transformations.Rediscovering Identity: From simple acts like learning what she liked to eat alone to exploring new passions such as travel, Amey slowly pieced together her true self.
Empowering Others: Today, Amey uses her journey to inspire and coach other women to reclaim their identities with courage and authenticity.
Finding Joy and Healing in Service: Volunteering played a key role in Amey’s healing journey, reinforcing that serving others can help mend a broken spirit.
Practical Steps for Growth: Amey emphasizes the importance of holding onto personal passions and giving oneself grace in times of transition.
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodAmey’s Links
Website: https://my-resilient-journey.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameydeanne/?hl=en, https://www.instagram.com/resilient.tx/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amey.deanne/, https://www.facebook.com/amey.deanneChapters:
[00:00] – Introduction
[00:45] – Amey's Story & Her Transformation
[03:07] – Coping & Rediscovering Sense of Self
[05:25] – Navigating Societal Expectations
[12:23] – Working Through Divorce
[19:21] – Discovering New Passions
[25:56] – Amey’s Writing & Storytelling
[32:46] – Unexpected Challenges & Entering the Dating Scene
[37:26] – Cultivating Happiness
[41:47] – Coaching Women to Reclaim Their Identities
[48:13] – Amey’s Upcoming Work
[50:20] – Power of Compassion & Open-MindednessDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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Welcome to another episode of The Human Experience! In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Vanessa, a former television producer who, at the height of her career, faced a life-altering illness. Vanessa's journey of unexpected blindness and paralysis, and her arduous path to recovery, reveals the extraordinary power of resilience, self-compassion, and the mind-body connection.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
Key Takeaways:
Transforming Trauma into a Journey of Discovery: After an illness left Vanessa blind and paralyzed, she channeled her producer instincts to approach her recovery like a project, recording daily progress and setting small but meaningful goals. Her journey underscores how trauma can become a powerful catalyst for self-discovery.
Rediscovering Vision and the Mind’s Role in Recovery: Vanessa designed her own vision exercises, challenging the brain’s adaptability and creating daily “experiments” to help retrain her sight. Her recovery experience reveals the intricate relationship between the mind and body and the importance of patience in physical and mental healing.
Collaboration with Science to Understand the Brain: Vanessa’s curiosity led to collaborations with neuroscientists, resulting in art-science projects like visualizing mindfulness with brainwave data. Her story highlights how community and interdisciplinary partnerships can support individual healing and inspire larger scientific insights.
Mind-Body Practices as Healing Tools: Through breathing exercises, visualization, and hypnotherapy, Vanessa found powerful methods to manage PTSD and anxiety. Her experience shows the value of exploring various mindfulness practices and finding personalized methods that resonate, especially during recovery from trauma.
Nature as a Gateway to Self-Care: Vanessa’s advocacy for forest bathing—a slow, sensory-focused walk in nature—reflects her belief in nature’s restorative power. She encourages this accessible practice to help people connect with their senses, reduce stress, and find emotional balance.
Compassion as a Superpower: For Vanessa, compassion was a skill she had to rediscover, not only as self-kindness but as a transformative power that enables resilience. She highlights that compassion often grows stronger through adversity and can become a profound source of inner strength.
Flexibility in Healing: Customizing Mind-Body Practices: Vanessa encourages a flexible approach to healing, suggesting people try different practices (like mindfulness, nature connection, and body-based practices) to discover what best supports them. Her story champions a personalized journey in wellness and self-care.
Embracing a New Normal and Giving Back: Rather than returning to her previous life, Vanessa embraced a new purpose, dedicating herself to developing wellness programs, community-led nature therapy, and science-based initiatives that inspire others to reclaim their health and well-being.
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodVanessa’s Links
Website: https://vanessapotter.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessapotterwrites, https://www.instagram.com/parkbathe/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanessaPotterWrites/, https://www.facebook.com/parkbathe
X: https://x.com/patienth69, https://x.com/park_batheDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Samantha, a passionate health coach and osteopath, to discuss her journey toward achieving "food freedom" and helping others do the same. Samantha shares her struggles with body image, binge eating, and restrictive dieting from a young age, and how she transformed her relationship with food and wellness. By embracing the connection between mental and physical health, Samantha now empowers others to break free from unhealthy cycles and find sustainable wellness.Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this heartfelt episode, Saloni, a former HIV and sexual health physician, shares her transformative journey from a respected career in medicine to becoming a trauma coach, focusing on EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Saloni’s story highlights the devastating impact of workplace bullying and how it led her to leave a career she was passionate about. Through her own healing process, she discovered a new purpose in motherhood, coaching, and becoming a published author of children's and young adult fiction.
📍This episode was recorded in Chester, England
Thank you to Magic Mind for sponsoring this video! You have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code “THE20” at checkout. You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/the20
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodSaloni’s Links
Website: salonisurah.com
Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/SaloniSurahAuthor
Instagram: https://instagram.com/salonibook
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@bedtimestoriesbysaloni
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Flora-Investigates-Case-Missing-Gold/dp/1739448405Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this heartfelt episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Paola, an artist originally from Bulgaria, who shares her extraordinary journey through personal challenges, loss, and triumph. Paola recounts her experiences with multiple miscarriages, the struggles within the healthcare system, and her relentless advocacy for her own health and her children’s well-being. From the emotional toll of infant loss to seeking alternative treatments for her son’s developmental delays, Paola's story is one of resilience, courage, and the ultimate rediscovery of her passion for art.
📍This episode was recorded in London, England
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodPaola’s Links:
Portfolio: https://paola.art/
Business Suite: https://digibees.studio/
Facebook: Personal @paolaminekov & Page @paolaminekovart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paolaminekov/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolaminekovDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin interviews Natasha, who shares her powerful story of growing up between Pakistan and the UK, navigating cultural differences, and how those experiences shaped her into the woman she is today. Natasha reflects on her journey into social work, motherhood, and the struggles of postpartum anxiety, highlighting the importance of resilience, empathy, and community.
📍This episode was recorded in Manchester, England
Natasha’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tashastales?igsh=bW53dnp2cG04ams0&utm_source=qr
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7oyoK8WRT061QCPO9WgHFe?si=iZDInQLdRJOXQ-N0ulSqdQDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Paula, a health and happiness coach for leaders. Paula shares her journey from being a self-proclaimed people pleaser to undergoing a profound transformation following a near-death experience during the birth of her first son. This episode dives deep into topics of personal growth, healing, the mind-body connection, and the importance of setting boundaries. Paula’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of aligning our actions with our decisions.
📍This episode was recorded in Oulu, Finland
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodPaula’s Links:
Website: https://www.paulaimmo.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulaimmo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valmennuspaulaimmo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaimmo?originalSubdomain=fiDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this powerful episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Celest, a passionate advocate for intuitive living and compassion. Together, they explore how life’s challenges, such as personal loss, career changes, and navigating self-doubt, can be transformative forces that lead us to our true purpose.
📍This episode was recorded in Odense, Denmark
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations around mental health and suicide. Please proceed with care.
In this episode of the Human Experience Podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Alexandra Catalina Guitza, also known as Cathy, for a profound conversation about her life journey, spanning different cultures, mental health challenges, and the pursuit of a global identity. Cathy reflects on her upbringing in post-communist Romania, her extensive travels through Germany, India, Thailand, and her current life in Prague. She opens up about her struggles with mental health, including depression, anxiety, and a psychotic episode, and how medication played a critical role in her recovery. Cathy shares insights from her "Eat, Pray, Love" journey of self-discovery and discusses her current focus on building a life rooted in mental wellness, authenticity, and compassion.
📍This episode was recorded in Bucharest, Romania
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodCathy’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordywitness
TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/wordywitnessDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains detailed and graphic discussions of domestic violence, physical violence, rape, and suicide. The content may be distressing for some listeners. Please proceed with caution and take care of your mental and emotional well-beinng.
In this second part of Alisa’s story, host Jennifer Peterkin continues the conversation about Alisa's harrowing journey through domestic violence and the fight for justice after being rescued from her husband's violent kidnapping and assault. Alisa recounts her legal battle, including the re-traumatizing process of facing her abuser in court, who chose to represent himself. She shares the impact this had on her healing journey, her children’s trauma, and the systemic failures that allowed her abuse to escalate.
📍This episode was recorded in Westchester, Pennsylvania
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains detailed and graphic discussions of domestic violence, physical violence, rape, and suicide. The content may be distressing for some listeners. Please proceed with caution and take care of your mental and emotional well-being.
In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin dives into the harrowing and powerful story of Alisa, a survivor of domestic violence. Alisa’s story, well-known due to its coverage on true crime shows and podcasts, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the unimaginable trauma she endured, Alisa has emerged as a speaker, author, and advocate for victims of domestic violence. This episode marks the first part of a two-part series where Alisa shares the details of her experiences, providing a raw and unfiltered look into the realities of abuse, the failings of the system, and the strength required to survive.
📍This episode was recorded in West Chester, Pennsylvania
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this powerful episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), to explore her journey into the fight against sexual exploitation. Dawn shares her personal experiences, the challenges of her work, and the incredible victories achieved through grassroots advocacy. This episode sheds light on the importance of unity, the impact of survivor-led initiatives, and the ongoing battle to hold corporations and policymakers accountable for protecting human dignity.
📍This episode was recorded in Washington D.C.
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Dawn’s Links:
National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): https://endsexualexploitation.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endexploitation/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centeronexploitation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD45nGjBYtEcVXFqXk7LUjg
X: https://x.com/ncoseDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this powerful episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Cecile, a woman whose life journey has taken her across continents and through profound challenges. Born in the Central African Republic, Cecile's early years were marked by a deep connection to her homeland, but her life took unexpected turns as she moved from Africa to Europe and eventually to the United States.
📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpod
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Crina, a remarkable woman who shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a Roma village in Romania to building a new life in the UK. Crina’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of education.
📍This episode was recorded in Kettering, England
Crina’s Links:
Children's Book: Happy Hippo and Kind Goose available on Amazon Kindle
Learn More About Firm Foundations Romania: To learn more about the organization that played a pivotal role in Karina’s life, visit firmfoundationsromania.comDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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*Editor's Note: This episode was recorded in October of last year. Since then, Andarge retired her podcast and moved out of Savannah to follow different dreams. Andarge brought so many fun stories to the table that we still wanted to share.
In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin welcomes Andarge, a vibrant and humorous radio and podcast host, to share her journey and insights into the intersection of fashion and social justice. Known for her lively personality and deep discussions, Andarge brings a unique perspective to the table.
📍This episode was recorded in Savannah, GA
Andarge’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atandarge/Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Rachel to share her poignant story. Rachel opens up about the profound impact of losing her mother to ALS during her teenage years. Her narrative is a touching reminder of the different ways people cope with grief and find healing.
📍This episode was recorded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rachel’s Links:
Travel AgentWebsite: www.magicalworldofrachel.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicalworldofrachel/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fairytalejourneysbyrachelturley
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_y812c1Z3yveE7-ovz5doA?view_as=subscriber
Hair StylistWebsite: www.wonderlandstudiopa.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelturleybeauty/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelturleybeautyDonate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Kelvin, the founder of Rustic Nature Tours, to explore his journey from an aspiring diplomat to running a successful safari business in Kenya. This episode dives into Kelvin's passion for wildlife, his upbringing, and his deep commitment to conservation.
📍This episode was recorded in Nairobi, Kenya
Kelvin’s Links:https://rusticnature.tours
Instagram: @rusticnaturetours
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In this episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Becca Pearce, a former insurance executive whose life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Becca's journey from a high-powered career to founding Extend Coaching and Consulting highlights the themes of resilience, reinvention, and the power of personal transformation.
📍This episode was recorded in Towson, Maryland
Becca’s Links:
https://extendcoach.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccapearce/Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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Today, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Cynthia Newberry Martin, a lawyer by training who found her true calling as a writer. Despite her legal career, Cynthia's passion for storytelling never waned, leading her to publish her first book in 2019 and subsequently win several writing awards, highlighting how writing has broadened her empathy and connection with the world.
📍This episode was recorded in Columbus, Georgia
Cynthia’s Links:
https://www.facebook.com/cynthianewberrymartin
https://www.facebook.com/cynthianewberrymartinwriter
https://www.instagram.com/cynthianewberrymartin/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthianewberrymartin/Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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In this powerful episode, host Jennifer Peterkin dives into the harrowing and inspiring story of J.D. McCabe, a father of two who endured severe domestic abuse. J.D.'s journey from being trapped in an abusive marriage to finding liberation is detailed in his memoir, The Third Gift.
This conversation contains discussions about domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised.
📍This episode was recorded in Charleston, South Carolina
J.D.’s Links:
Website: https://thirdgift.com/
Book: https://thirdgift.com/books/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thethirdgift/?hl=en
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thethirdgift?xmt=AQGzrKf_OCRtAhuM1UZ8ajzIhrE8Dn8ZwfE7VYnjUo7D5Tw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thirdgift
Twitter: https://x.com/thirdgiftbook
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thethirdgift
Donate to The Human Experience Podcast
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Send me an email at [email protected] - Show more
