As the first light of February 24, 2023, painted the horizon, Olga's world was abruptly shattered by the haunting echo of her father's words: "the war has started." Feel the weight of her heavy heart as she, a compassionate nurse with Health Tech Without Borders, recounts the visceral emotions that gripped her en route to the airport, learning of the invasion that would change her life forever. Picture yourself standing amidst the ruins of your ancestral home, grappling with the irrevocable change that war has etched into your life. Through Olga's eyes, peer into this world, where bittersweet ..read more

This episode explores the therapeutic power of writing trauma with the author and writing coach TJ from Virginia. Tj's  compelling work, "Dating Silky Maxwell,"  brings to life a chorus of passionate, damaged characters who leave their pasts behind and reinvent themselves until their mistakes no longer define them. During this episode we delve into the silent strength of writing, especially for those not ready to vocalize their truths. Embarking on the writing journey mirrors navigating an uncharted path. This discussion unveils the intricate process of crafting a short story collec ..read more

In the company of Josh, we venture beneath the surface, immersing ourselves in the chilling realities of drug experimentation, particularly with Percocet and Fentanyl. Through his firsthand testimony, we are starkly reminded of the ominous abysses that addiction can lead us into, highlighting the desperate need for thorough drug education. Yet, amid the heart-wrenching tales of struggle, a glimmer of optimism emerges—the profound strength found in community. We're not just a podcast; we're a united front, standing side by side in the battle against addiction. Thank you, The Blue Plaid Society ..read more

Vital Germaine is a resilient survivor of childhood trauma, former Cirque du Soleil performer, author, artist, and humanitarian.     During this episode, we dive into the profound exploration of healing from past scars and disrupting generational cycles. Our discussion highlights the extraordinary impact of empathy in facing guilt and shame, sharing intimate experiences with mental health, and challenging societal stigma. We navigate the complexities of living authentically and liberating ourselves from societal norms. Vital illuminates the potency of authenticity in conquering ..read more

From the raw emotion of real-life tales to the heart-thumping intrigue of true crime, each episode of "I Need Blue" is carefully curated to touch the heart and foster a sense of community. As we embark on this extraordinary journey, I must remind you to take care of yourselves, as some episodes may feature graphic themes, including violence, abuse, and murder. I am grateful to Char Good for composing and performing the introduction medley and would love for you to connect with her.  https://chargood.com/ Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ Facebook ..read more

Julie is a remarkable individual who has faced numerous challenges in her life with unwavering strength and resilience. From waking up deaf at the age of five to enduring a series of medical conditions and undergoing 24 surgeries, Julie's journey has been marked by perseverance and faith. Despite these obstacles, Julie has found solace and empowerment in her relationship with God, leaning into His guidance and finding a sense of purpose in her writing and singing talents. Her ability to find humor in the midst of adversity and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of obedience to ..read more

 Have you ever wondered how childhood experiences shape your life, health, and relationships?     Join us as we navigate this intriguing exploration with Diana Bishop, a Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Certified Wellness Practitioner, and Trauma Therapist who offers a candid look into her life, recovery, and the transformative power of understanding trauma.     Diana’s healing journey, her expertise in health behavior change, and her partnerships with Dr. Vincent Fellitti for over 15 years in various capacities, including the Adverse Childhood Expe ..read more

Imagine the mental toll of being a first responder, nurse, healthcare provider, counselor, and anyone who puts others' needs before themselves.  They are noble professions that often lead to the unbearable weight of compassion fatigue.    We invite you to unravel this complex issue with our esteemed guest, Dr. Michelle Finneran, a renowned psychotherapist, author, and mental health advocate. She's been at the front line throughout her career, battling stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue.  In our conversation, she shares invaluable insights from her latest book, "The Com ..read more

Every journey through life's darkest moments can lead to unexpected revelations and personal growth. Embrace the profound wisdom shared by our special guest, John, as he dives deep into overcoming sibling trauma, redefining his relationships, and embracing the healing power of passion. From the critical decisions he made in his adolescence, navigating a midlife crisis, to his life-altering moments that led him on a journey of self-realization, this episode is not only an exploration of pain, purpose, and resilience but also a beacon of light for those on a similar journey. John's book, 'Man U ..read more

Get ready to be captivated as Lois Gibson, the world’s most successful forensic artist, enthralls us with her powerful story of transforming personal trauma into a mission to fight crime. With her unique talent, Lois Gibson is recorded in The Guinness Book of World Records as "The World's Most Successful Forensic Artist."  Her sketches have helped law enforcement identify more than 751 criminals, making mere sketches a profound weapon against crime. Lois's fascinating journey continues beyond there. She's a remarkable artist and a provider of invaluable safety tips. With keen insights in ..read more