Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray

Stacey Ray
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Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray is a dynamic podcast created and produced by Sisterhood Travels, designed to celebrate and amplify the voices of extraordinary women. In line with our mission to inspire, empower, and connect women through storytelling and exploration, our show shines a spotlight on those who have shattered barriers, embraced bold transformations, and redefined what it means to thrive in life’s next chapters. At the heart of Life. Reimagined. is our host, Stacey Ray, a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and founder of Sisterhood Travels. Stacey combines her deep love for travel with her mission to create spaces where women over 45 can connect, explore, and thrive. With her warm, engaging style, Stacey invites guests to share their unique experiences and perspectives, fostering conversations that are authentic, uplifting, and impactful. Each episode celebrates diverse stories—from life-altering adventures to moments of personal transformation—delivered with a relaxed and welcoming tone. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or taking your first steps toward reimagining your own life, Life. Reimagined. is here to inspire and uplift you.

  1. What the Epstein Files Say About Us | Micha Star Liberty

    FEB 11

    What the Epstein Files Say About Us | Micha Star Liberty

    “This is not about politics. This is about human rights, justice, and whether we are willing to protect the most vulnerable among us.” In this urgent and unflinching episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey Ray is joined once again by attorney and victims’ rights advocate Micha Star Liberty for a wide-ranging conversation about the Epstein files, systemic cover-ups, and the profound harm caused when justice is delayed. Together, Stacey and Micha explore why this issue transcends party politics and instead cuts to the core of human rights, women’s safety, and societal accountability. They examine how patriarchal language, social conditioning, and institutional power protect perpetrators while silencing survivors—particularly in cases of sexual violence and child exploitation. The discussion dives into the legal realities surrounding the delayed release of the Epstein documents, including discharge petitions, redactions, contempt of court, statutes of limitations, and the possibility of appointing a special master to oversee disclosure. Micha also explains how these prolonged delays retraumatize survivors and send a chilling message about whose lives and suffering are deemed worthy of justice. Beyond the Epstein case itself, this episode expands into a sobering look at rising misogyny, online exploitation, AI-facilitated abuse, the erosion of democratic norms, and the normalization of hostility toward women. The conversation closes with a call for civic engagement, intergenerational dialogue, and collective action to demand transparency and accountability. What You’ll Learn: Why the Epstein files are fundamentally a human rights issue—not a partisan one How language and social conditioning influence our willingness to believe survivors What redactions, discharge petitions, and criminal contempt actually mean in practice How statutes of limitations affect trafficking and child sexual abuse cases The psychological toll delayed justice takes on survivors How misogyny and online exploitation are intensifying in the digital age What everyday citizens can do to demand transparency and accountability Micha Star Liberty is a nationally recognized attorney and advocate specializing in sexual assault, child abuse, human trafficking, and online exploitation cases. Her work centers survivors’ lived experiences while challenging systems that protect perpetrators and silence victims. Known for her trauma-informed approach and fearless advocacy, Micha is a leading voice calling for meaningful legal and cultural reform. Connect with Micha Liberty: Instagram:  michastarliberty   Facebook:  evolutionistamsl   LinkedIn: michastarliberty   Micha’s official website: https://evolutionista.com/ If this episode challenged or moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to Life. Reimagined., leave a review, and follow the show for more courageous conversations. Transparency, justice, and accountability depend on informed and engaged voices—yours matters. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    34 min
  2. Why Getting Sick in America Can Ruin Your Life | Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal

    JAN 29

    Why Getting Sick in America Can Ruin Your Life | Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal

    "No one would design this system if we were starting again today." In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey is joined by Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal, physician, journalist, and author of An American Sickness. Together, they dive deep into the broken U.S. healthcare system, exploring how it became a profit-driven behemoth that fails patients of every demographic. From her early days in emergency medicine to her award-winning journalism and policy work, Dr. Rosenthal offers unmatched insight into the system's pitfalls—and why incremental reforms aren't enough. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, underserved, or overcharged by our healthcare institutions. Raw, unfiltered, and deeply personal, this conversation is an urgent call for systemic change. What You'll Learn: Why the U.S. healthcare system prioritizes profit over patient care—and how it got this way How your zip code, insurance type, or employment status can determine the quality of care you receive The truth about "socialized medicine" and what global healthcare systems can teach us How billing practices and facility fees hide the real cost of care What a public option might look like and why it could be a practical solution Dr. Rosenthal's personal journey from ER doctor to investigative health journalist How systemic inequities impact rural communities, undocumented individuals, and marginalized groups Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal is a former ER physician turned acclaimed journalist and editor-in-chief at KFF Health News (formerly Kaiser Health News). She spent 22 years at The New York Times, where she covered a wide range of health and policy topics and launched the influential "Paying Till It Hurts" series. Her bestselling book, An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take It Back, is a searing indictment of the system's transformation into an industry. Dr. Rosenthal brings both medical expertise and journalistic rigor to the healthcare debate. Connect with Dr. Rosenthal: An American Sickness: Paperback: https://amzn.to/3MbI7iQ Kindle: https://amzn.to/45AfmD9 Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4rp5RPD   Twitter/X: https://x.com/RosenthalHealth@RosenthalHealth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabeth-rosenthal-3ba977b1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyterosenthal If this episode made you think differently about healthcare, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to Life. Reimagined. on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more transformative conversations. Together, we can demand better care for all. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    48 min
  3. Shot, Left for Dead, Still Here: Jackie Pflug’s Story

    JAN 22

    Shot, Left for Dead, Still Here: Jackie Pflug’s Story

    You don't get shot in the head and come out the same person—but you can come out stronger.” In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Stacey welcomes Jackie Pflug, a hijacking survivor, motivational speaker, and author, who shares the harrowing story of being shot in the head during the 1985 EgyptAir Flight 648 hijacking—and the incredible journey of healing, resilience, and reinvention that followed. Jackie recounts the terrifying events on board the hijacked plane, her miraculous survival, and the years of physical and emotional recovery that came after. She speaks candidly about survivor’s guilt, rebuilding her identity, the long road to joy, and the power of gratitude in transforming trauma into triumph. Jackie also discusses her new book, Wake Up: It’s Time to Say Yes to Creating a Life Worth Loving, a guide born from her personal transformation, and the actionable steps she took to reclaim her joy. Her story is one of grit, grace, divine intervention, and the unbreakable human spirit. Whether you’ve faced trauma, disappointment, or are simply seeking inspiration to embrace a fuller life, this episode will leave you deeply moved and motivated to say “yes” to your own healing and purpose. What You’ll Learn: The incredible story of surviving a violent international hijacking The emotional and physical toll of trauma—and how to begin healing The role of gratitude in transforming suffering into joy How to rebuild your life and identity after a major life upheaval The power of inner voice, resilience, and support systems Why joy is a practice—and how to cultivate it every day Practical mindset rituals Jackie uses to foster positivity and presence How to live a life “worth loving,” even after unthinkable adversity Jackie Pflug is a renowned motivational speaker, trauma survivor, and author who has spent decades inspiring audiences around the world with her story of survival and recovery after the 1985 hijacking of EgyptAir Flight 648. She is the author of Miles to Go Before I Sleep and her latest book Wake Up: It’s Time to Say Yes to Creating a Life Worth Loving, a heartfelt, practical guide to reclaiming joy after loss, trauma, or stagnation. Jackie’s work centers on the belief that we all have the power to choose joy, rewrite our stories, and live with intention. Books by Jackie Pflug: Miles to Go Before I Sleep Wake Up: It’s Time to Say Yes to Creating a Life Worth Loving Paperback Kindle Connect with Jackie: Official Website: https://jackiepflug.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiepflug.author/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Jackie-Pflug-Author-61574590640951/ If Jackie’s story moved you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review the show. Share this episode with someone who needs hope, healing, or a reminder that transformation is always possible. And don’t forget to grab a copy of Wake Up—because your life is yours to reimagine. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    57 min
  4. What If the Identity Thief Was Living in Your House? Axton Betz-Hamilton Tells All

    11/20/2025

    What If the Identity Thief Was Living in Your House? Axton Betz-Hamilton Tells All

    "I thought I was a victim of child identity theft—until I discovered the truth: my own mother had stolen my identity, my future, and my trust." In this deeply compelling and emotionally charged episode, Stacey sits down with Dr. Axton Betz-Hamilton, a professor, author, and survivor of one of the most personal crimes imaginable: identity theft at the hands of her own mother. From an idyllic childhood on an Indiana farm to the shocking discovery that her credit had been ruined before she turned 20, Axton shares the harrowing journey of uncovering layers of betrayal buried in secrecy, manipulation, and financial devastation. Axton's story is not just about theft, but the emotional toll of familial deception and the long road to reclaiming her identity, stability, and peace. Through her academic work and her critically acclaimed memoir, "The Less People Know About Us," she has become a national voice for victims of familial identity theft. This episode explores the intersection of trauma, mental health, justice, and resilience—and what it means to heal when the person who harmed you is the one who raised you. What You’ll Learn: What familial identity theft is and how it differs from other forms of identity theft Why children and older adults are especially vulnerable to identity fraud How Axton discovered her mother had stolen her identity and that of other family members The emotional and relational fallout of discovering long-term betrayal Practical tips to protect yourself from financial, medical, and government benefits identity theft The role of credit freezes, monitoring, and emotional support in recovery Why victims of familial identity theft often find more help from therapists than financial institutions Dr. Axton Betz-Hamilton is an associate professor specializing in consumer studies and identity theft at South Dakota State University. A leading researcher in familial identity theft, Axton turned her traumatic experience into a platform for education and reform. Her memoir, The Less People Know About Us: A Mystery of Betrayal, Family Secrets, and Stolen Identity, has been featured by NPR, The New York Times, and other major media outlets. Her work sheds light on a hidden epidemic affecting countless families. Connect with Axton: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAxtonBetzHamilton/ Book: The Less People Know About Us Hardcover - https://amzn.to/3XsFgE9 Kindle - https://amzn.to/4oBCFDR Resources & Links: Identity Theft Resource Center: idtheftcenter.org Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Reporting: identitytheft.gov Credit Freeze Info: consumer.ftc.gov If this episode moved you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review Life. Reimagined. on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it—you never know who might be living a similar story in silence. Follow us for more powerful conversations that inspire healing, insight, and reimagining life on your own terms. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    1h 9m
  5. Fear Less, Live More: Lorie Jones on Building Financial Confidence

    11/13/2025

    Fear Less, Live More: Lorie Jones on Building Financial Confidence

    "You deserve a seat in the driver's seat of your financial future — not as a passenger, and definitely not hitchhiking." In this eye-opening and empowering episode, Stacey welcomes Lorie Jones, a Certified Financial Planner and the founder of Fearless Financial Advisors, to discuss the fears, myths, and realities surrounding women and money. With warmth and humor, Lorie shares her personal journey from stay-at-home mom to financial expert, demystifies the world of investing, and emphasizes a values-based approach to financial planning. Together, they tackle the stigma many women feel around money management and shed light on how financial planning is not just about numbers — it's about making your dreams come true. Whether you're starting late, rebuilding after a life transition, or just ready to stop DIY-ing your financial life, this conversation will inspire you to fear less and plan more. What You'll Learn: Why many women feel intimidated by financial planning and how to overcome that mindset The critical importance of finding a CFP who prioritizes education over sales How to plan financially according to your personal values, not someone else's Common fears and anxieties women face around money and how to tackle them Why it's never too late to start, and how even small steps can make a big difference The gender gap in financial planning and why more women are needed in the industry How to vet a financial planner and spot red flags The power of having an advisor who meets you where you are and grows with you Lorie Jones is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), MBA, and founder of Fearless Financial Advisors. With a passion for helping women take control of their financial futures, Lorie takes a values-based, client-first approach to wealth planning. She is also the host of the "Fearless Females" podcast, where she amplifies women's voices in finance. From demystifying investments to empowering her clients to take that first step, Lorie believes finance shouldn't be scary — it should be a tool for realizing your dreams. Connect with Lorie Jones: Website Podcast LinkedIn Instagram: @lorie_fearless_females Resources & Links: CFP Certification Info: letsmakeaplan.org Advisor Check Tools: BrokerCheck | Investment Adviser Public Disclosure If this episode sparked something in you, don't wait. Take the first step toward understanding and owning your financial future. Subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman you care about. Let's normalize financial empowerment — one fearless conversation at a time. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    45 min
  6. Stand Up, Step Out, and Say Yes: The Extraordinary Life of Major General Mari K. Eder

    11/06/2025

    Stand Up, Step Out, and Say Yes: The Extraordinary Life of Major General Mari K. Eder

    "No one else was going to push me, so I pushed myself." In this moving and wide-ranging conversation, retired U.S. Army Major General Mari K. Eder joins host Stacey to share her journey through a 36-year military career, her lifelong pursuit of purpose, and her mission to spotlight the unsung heroes of history. From her beginnings as a public relations specialist in the military to becoming one of a handful of female generals, Mari opens up about breaking barriers, the value of persistence, and the power of strategic communication. She also shares her passion for writing, her love for rescue dogs, and how she's honoring the courageous women who "stepped out of line" to change the world. Whether you're a history buff, aspiring leader, or dog lover, this episode is rich with heart, grit, and inspiration. What You’ll Learn: Why Mari K. Eder joined the military and how she forged a groundbreaking path The importance of women’s stories in military history and why they're often untold How humor, communication, and resilience shaped her leadership style Insights into writing history, finding primary sources, and preserving truth The role of strategic communication in both military and civilian life Why she fosters dogs and how rescue work became her passion project Major General Mari K. Eder (Ret.) is an accomplished leader, author, and speaker. With a 36-year career in the U.S. Army, she served as a commanding officer, public affairs expert, and advocate for military women. She is the author of several books, including The Girls Who Stepped Out of Line, The Girls Who Fought Crime, and the forthcoming The Girls Who Beat the Odds. She also writes humorous dog-themed books and is deeply involved in animal rescue. A celebrated speaker on leadership and strategic communication, Mari continues to inspire through her storytelling and service. Follow Mari: Instagram Website Linkedin  Facebook Books: Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47zmHD9 Resources & Links: Military Women's Memorial: https://womensmemorial.org JSTOR (research database): https://www.jstor.org Foundation for Women Warriors: https://foundationforwomenwarriors.org If you were inspired by Mari's journey, consider sharing this episode with a friend. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and follow us on your favorite platform. Your support helps us continue telling stories that matter. Step out of line—and into your potential. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    49 min
  7. Kidnapped in Somalia, Rescued by SEAL Team Six | Jessica's Buchanan’s Story of Hope

    10/30/2025

    Kidnapped in Somalia, Rescued by SEAL Team Six | Jessica's Buchanan’s Story of Hope

    "What happens after you survive the unthinkable? For Jessica Buchanan, surviving survival became the hardest—and most transformative—journey of all." In this deeply powerful and emotionally resonant episode, Stacey sits down with Jessica Buchanan, humanitarian, educator, and New York Times bestselling author, to unpack her harrowing story of being kidnapped by Somali pirates and held hostage for 93 days. But this conversation is about so much more than captivity—it's about what comes next. Jessica opens up about the aftermath of her rescue by SEAL Team Six, the struggle of reclaiming her identity, and the journey toward healing and purpose. She shares insights from her upcoming book Surviving Survival, discusses the nuances of trauma and resilience, and introduces us to the powerful stories she's amplifying through her publishing company, SoulSpeak Press. With raw vulnerability and hard-earned wisdom, Jessica reminds us that pain is never wasted—and that we all have the ability to create a meaningful life after devastation. What You’ll Learn: The psychological toll and moral complexity of surviving a kidnapping How Jessica reframed “options” vs. “choices” in the midst of trauma Why surviving the aftermath of trauma can be harder than the trauma itself How writing and storytelling became tools for healing What it truly means to "survive survival" How SoulSpeak Press is giving a platform to stories of grit and resilience Insights on trauma, motherhood, identity, and rebuilding from rubble Jessica Buchanan is a teacher, humanitarian, speaker, and survivor. In 2011, while working on education and demining efforts in Somalia, she was kidnapped by pirates and held for 93 days before being rescued by SEAL Team Six. Her memoir Impossible Odds, co-authored with her husband and Anthony Flacco, became a New York Times bestseller. Jessica is also the founder of SoulSpeak Press, a boutique publishing company that empowers women to share their survival stories. Her newest book, Surviving Survival, explores the journey of healing after trauma and will be released on October 27th. Connect with Jess: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Impossible Odds by Jessica Buchanan Paperback Kindle  Hardcover  Her New Book - How to Survive Survival: A Guide to Turning Life's Hardest Moments into Meaningful Contribution for the World On Kindle If Jessica’s story moved you, inspired you, or gave you a new perspective, please consider subscribing to the show, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Your support helps amplify stories of resilience, healing, and hope. Follow us on social media for more episodes and behind-the-scenes content! Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    59 min
  8. Speaking for the Dead: Dr. Joye Carter

    10/23/2025

    Speaking for the Dead: Dr. Joye Carter

    "When you take away the skin, we are all the same. Everyone deserves respect in life—and in death." In this riveting episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey welcomes Dr. Joye Carter, the first Black female chief medical examiner in the United States, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation. Dr. Carter shares the extraordinary journey that led her to forensic pathology—from a childhood medical crisis to a chance encounter with a post-mortem exam at age 14. Listeners are treated to an unfiltered look at the realities of death investigation, racial and gender biases in medicine, and the sacred responsibility of speaking for the dead. Dr. Carter also reveals the systemic flaws within the coroner system, the battle against the pseudoscience of "excited delirium," and her ongoing mission to mentor the next generation of forensic pathologists. Now retired, Dr. Carter continues to influence the world through advocacy, mentoring, and yes—her garden and her beloved dogs. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about justice, equity, and the truth behind the headlines. What You’ll Learn: How a childhood illness sparked Dr. Carter's medical aspirations The systemic differences between coroners and medical examiners Why cause of death is foundational to justice The truth about racial and gender disparities in autopsy practices How flawed forensic practices have led to wrongful imprisonments The controversy behind "excited delirium" and its racial implications The power of mentorship and why representation in medicine matters Dr. Joye M. Carter is a pioneer in forensic pathology, becoming the first Black female to serve as a chief medical examiner in the United States. Over a career spanning more than four decades and 25,000 autopsies, she has served in top forensic roles with the Armed Forces, Washington D.C., Houston, and Indianapolis. She is the author of I Speak for the Dead, and an outspoken advocate for dignity in death, equity in medicine, and justice for marginalized communities. Even in retirement, Dr. Carter mentors aspiring pathologists and continues to speak out on national issues related to death investigation. Connect with Dr. Joye Carter: LinkedIn Twitter (X) - @joyejoy32 Instagram - @docdocjo Book: I Speak for the Dead  (Available on Amazon) Resources & Links: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander Information on forensic pathology careers: College of American Pathologists National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) If you found this episode as compelling as we did, please subscribe to Life. Reimagined., leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with friends or anyone curious about justice, medicine, or forensic science. Follow the podcast for more bold conversations that challenge convention and inspire change. Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes. Follow us on social media. Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more incredible conversations with those who dare to redefine their lives. Book your next Sisterhood Travels Tour. Join our Private Facebook Page to keep up with exciting news.

    1h 14m
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5
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About

Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray is a dynamic podcast created and produced by Sisterhood Travels, designed to celebrate and amplify the voices of extraordinary women. In line with our mission to inspire, empower, and connect women through storytelling and exploration, our show shines a spotlight on those who have shattered barriers, embraced bold transformations, and redefined what it means to thrive in life’s next chapters. At the heart of Life. Reimagined. is our host, Stacey Ray, a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and founder of Sisterhood Travels. Stacey combines her deep love for travel with her mission to create spaces where women over 45 can connect, explore, and thrive. With her warm, engaging style, Stacey invites guests to share their unique experiences and perspectives, fostering conversations that are authentic, uplifting, and impactful. Each episode celebrates diverse stories—from life-altering adventures to moments of personal transformation—delivered with a relaxed and welcoming tone. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or taking your first steps toward reimagining your own life, Life. Reimagined. is here to inspire and uplift you.

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