Hopeful Hearts Podcast Tamara Lexow

We have to learn to be our own advocate in all areas of our lives - especially with our physical and mental health. Shannon and Tamara talk about recent life events and learning to speak up.

Shannon and Tamara welcome Patricia Budd and Michael Kovaks, survivors and thrivers in their own right, of Sisters Minor of Mary Immaculate. Listen to Patricia's story of fighting for her survival, and how Michael, in a fight to save his mother, discovered his older sister's abuse of hundreds of women.

We were very careful to not use triggering language, but please be advised that we discuss spiritual, sexual, and physical abuse vaguely.

Shannon and Tamara welcome Jason Andrews, one of the hosts of Just Us Men, a podcast that serves as a safe place for men, fathers, husbands to talk about sports and "manly" topics, but also about their everyday struggles, feelings, emotions, and pasts. Today, Jason opened up and shared his story of emotional and physical abuse from his first marriage. We begin to touch on how religious/denominational rules can sometimes prevent people from seeking the help or escape needed in their marriage, when abuse is present.

*WARNING* This episode contains discussion about suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately, call 911.

We often think of women when we think of survivors of abuse. Cameron Hayes came on the show today to offer a man's perspective, and speak about the importance of men seeking help for their trauma and abuse.

Everyone expects the holidays to be a time of happiness, but if you have experienced loss, it may not feel so happy. Shannon and Tamara talk about how to change things up, set boundaries, and look for joy amidst the grief you might be experiencing.

Shannon and Tamara welcome guest and friend, Lynn Feder, to today's show. Lynn works with Hopeful Hearts Ministry to teach our Just Breathe and Healing Yoga classes. Lynn shares why she is passionate about providing tools to help people transform their lives...mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, so they will ultimately feel happy, healthy, wealthy, loved, supported and at peace.