Dead America Ed Watters

 In this episode, Dana Diaz, author of 'Gasping for Air: TheStranglehold of Narcissistic Abuse,' shares her personal journey of overcomingthe challenges of being raised by a narcissistic stepfather and enduring a25-year marriage to a different kind of narcissist. Diaz discusses her earlyresolution to never have children due to fear of becoming like her parents andthe eventual realization and liberation she found in escaping her abusivecircumstances, including the freeing yet peace-bringing decision to love andprioritize herself. The episode also delves into Dana’s experiences of physicaland emotional abuse, how it impacted her health, and her process of writing asa form of therapy and empowerment. Furthermore, Dana offers insights into thedynamics of narcissistic relationships, the importance of understanding one'sself-worth, and how envisioning a new life can be the first step towardsrecovery and happiness. The discussion also explores the challenges ofco-parenting with a narcissist and the significance of having a supportiveenvironment in healing and moving forward. 

  

00:00 The Decision Against Parenthood: A Personal Journey 

01:07 Embracing Education to Overcome 

01:59 Introducing Dana Diaz: Survivor and Author 

03:31 The Struggle for Freedom from Narcissistic Abuse 

07:04 The Complex Dynamics of a Narcissistic Relationship 

18:32 The Isolation and Control in Narcissistic Abuse 

22:34 Confronting and Expressing Feelings in a ToxicRelationship 

25:28 The Struggle with Parenthood and NarcissisticRelationships 

27:16 The Emotional Journey of Miscarriages and the Desirefor a Child 

28:46 The Arrival of a Newborn: Hopes and Harsh Realities 

30:16 Finding Happiness Amidst Chaos: A Mother's Love forHer Son 

32:09 A New Beginning: Leaving Abuse Behind and EmbracingSelf-Love 

35:32 Navigating Post-Divorce Life and Co-ParentingChallenges 

43:37 Empowerment Through Writing: Sharing the Journey toHelp Others 

46:43 Advice for Those Stuck in Abusive Relationships orUnfulfilling Jobs 

50:22 Engaging with the Community: How to Connect and ShareYour Story  



 www.danasdiaz.com 

  

https://www.facebook.com/DanaSDiazAuthor 

  

https://www.instagram.com/danas.diaz/  

 In this podcast episode, host Ed interviews Jason Dietrich,a NASA STEM educator, who shares his journey from overcoming challengesassociated with Hyperlexia, a form of autism, to becoming a STEM educator andinspiring the next generation. Jason emphasizes the importance of imagination,creativity, and persistence in pursuing opportunities at NASA and in STEMfields. He discusses the role of STEM education in encouraging students todream big and explore their creativity through hands-on learning experiences.Jason also highlights the Virginia Space Flight Academy's programs, includingspace adventure camps and an online STEM academy, designed to engage studentsin STEM. Finally, Jason provides insights on the necessity of self-discovery,critical thinking, and embracing one's unique talents and passions for personaland professional growth. 

  

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 

00:08 The Power of Imagination and STEM Education 

00:49 Personal Journey to NASA and Overcoming Challenges 

04:39 The Role of Educators as Heroes 

05:25 The Path to Becoming a NASA STEM Educator 

19:47 The Impact of COVID-19 on Education and Opportunities 

25:02 Engaging with STEM: Opportunities and Programs 

37:43 Call to Action: Embracing Positivity and Opportunities 

41:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information  



 Website link: https://www.vasfa.org 

Other social media handle links for VASFA: 

1. FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/VaSpaceFlightAcademy 

2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarinetman114/ 

3. Twitter: @VaSpaceAcademy  

 In this episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Wattersspeaks with Krista Melanson, a dating coach who specializes in helpingindividuals over forty navigate the complexities of dating and find meaningfulconnections. Krista shares valuable insights on common struggles faced byover-forty daters, such as self-doubt, changes in what attraction means at thisstage of life, and the importance of honesty in building relationships. Sheemphasizes the role of dating apps as a tool for meeting potential partners andthe significance of face-to-face interactions early on. Krista also discussesher approach to coaching, highlighting the importance of self-love, recognizingred flags, and setting healthy boundaries. The episode covers the challengesand rewards of dating over forty, offering listeners advice on overcomingobstacles, improving their dating experiences, and finding lasting love. 

  

00:00 Navigating Modern Dating: Ghosting and Communication 

01:06 Empowerment Through Education: The Dead AmericaPhilosophy 

01:56 Meet Krista Melanson: A Journey into Dating Coaching 

03:19 The Challenges and Insights of Dating Over Forty 

07:15 Leveraging Dating Apps for Meaningful Connections 

11:19 Understanding Attraction and Compatibility After Forty 

14:56 The Mental Battle of Dating Later in Life 

00:00 The Importance of Honesty and Boundaries in Dating 

21:05 Why Dating Coaching Can Be a Game Changer 

30:27 Finding Fulfillment and Confidence in Relationships 

32:19 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action  

 This episode features a conversation with Kimberly Williams,the VP of People for Walker Advertising, discussing the nuances of workplacedynamics, the impact of toxic environments, and strategies for addressingdiscrimination, harassment, and stress. Williams shares her extensive HRexperience, emphasizing the importance of handling workplace complaintseffectively, leveraging FMLA for mental health issues, and the evolution ofworkplace attitudes towards stress and mental health post-pandemic. Theconversation also touches on the role of HR in advocating for employee rights,the significance of creating psychologically safe work environments, and the necessityof open discussions about workplace safety and employee well-being.Additionally, Williams highlights the potential of social media in changingworkplace cultures and offers resources for those seeking legal assistance inlabor and employment issues. 

  

00:00 Exploring FMLA and Mental Health in the Workplace 

01:30 The Power of Education and Self-Reflection 

02:21 Introducing Kimberly Williams: A Journey Through HRand Personal Challenges 

04:26 Navigating Toxic Work Environments and Discrimination 

06:03 Strategies for Addressing Workplace Conflicts andToxicity 

11:38 The Importance of Documentation and When to SeekExternal Help 

13:57 Leveraging Union Support and Understanding WorkplaceDynamics 

16:08 Separating Work from Personal Life and Managing WorkplaceStress 

20:05 Advocating for Workplace Safety and Mental HealthAwareness 

26:18 Kimberly's Call to Action and Closing Thoughts  



 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-e-williams  

 In this episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watterstalks with Chris Donaldson, author of 'Going the Wrong Way'. Donaldson shareshis remarkable life journey, starting with an adventurous motorcycle trip fromBelfast to Australia that unintentionally took him to Argentina due togeopolitical events. This mishap set the stage for a lifetime of unconventionalchoices, leading to rich experiences and valuable life lessons. Donaldsonreflects on growing up in Belfast during the tumultuous 70s, his repeatedattempts to reach Australia, and the personal growth he encountered throughfacing challenges head-on. The conversation also dives into Donaldson's passionfor motorcycling, his experience of building his own aircraft, and the processof writing his book. Wrapping up the episode, Donaldson imparts inspiringadvice for listeners, urging them to embrace life's opportunities regardless ofage. This engaging discussion explores themes of adventure, reflection, and theenduring spirit of curiosity. 

  

00:00 The Essence of Going the Wrong Way: A Life's Journey 

00:54 The Power of Education and Self-Reflection 

01:44 Introducing Chris Donaldson: The Man Behind the Adventure 

02:00 A Motorcycle Journey Like No Other: From Belfast toArgentina 

04:20 The Challenges and Triumphs of a Life Less Ordinary 

17:28 Embracing the Digital Age: The Evolution ofCommunication and Navigation 

24:50 The Thrill of Building and Flying Your Own Aircraft 

31:52 Reflections on Aging, Adventure, and the Quest forKnowledge 

32:44 A Call to Action: Embrace Life at Any Age 

34:48 Connecting with Chris Donaldson and Closing Thoughts  



 http://chrisdonaldson.world/ 

http://goingthewrongway.book/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdonaldson1 

https://twitter.com/ChrisDo69411982 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAEPhkadGbc 

https://podmatch.com/guestdetail/1655928576752x859881639890132600  

 This episode features an in-depth conversation with ParkerHarris, the founder of Junto Global, discussing the significance ofpeer-to-peer learning and personal development. Parker shares his journey fromearly struggles to building Junto Global, emphasizing the importance ofroundtable conversations, mentorship, and challenging one's beliefs to fostergrowth. He draws inspiration from the principles of Benjamin Franklin andadvocates for a peer structure devoid of a singular leader, promoting a dynamicwhere leadership and learning are distributed within the group. The discussioncovers a range of topics including overcoming social isolation among the elderly,the transformative power of asking quality questions within a group, and theshift towards a more collective, horizontal approach to personal development.Parker also touches on the profound effects of reflection, accuratelyidentifying problems beyond surface-level symptoms, the significance ofidentity and courage in personal growth, and the importance of leading byexample to induce change. The episode concludes with actionable advice forlisteners to form their own mastermind groups to discuss and explore ideasdeeply, thereby enhancing their personal and professional lives. 

  

00:00 The Vision of Peer-to-Peer Conversations and SocialIsolation 

01:54 Introducing Parker Harris and the Genesis of JuntoGlobal 

03:52 The Essence and Impact of Mastermind Group Discussions 

05:50 Leveraging Benjamin Franklin's Thirteen Principles inModern Times 

08:58 Exploring Personal Development and the Power ofSelf-Reflection 

09:47 Navigating Life's Challenges and the Importance ofAccurate Thinking 

19:45 The Role of Leadership and Embracing Paradox inSociety 

29:56 The Evolution of Personal Development and the Futureof Education 

32:41 Practical Advice for Personal Growth and Goal Setting 

39:32 A Call to Action: Forming Your Own Mastermind Group  



 http://junto.global/ 

https://www.facebook.com/zacharyparkerharris/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/parkerharris/ 

https://www.instagram.com/zacharyparkerharris/ 

https://www.youtube.com/@Juntoglobal/ 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWLckuGx5UA