In this episode of Pause to Go, host Bree Luck engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dr. Cathy Ames Turner, a pastor, coach, scholar, and mother who achieved her doctorate in her sixties. Reflecting on her transformative journey from middle school to menopause, she speaks about her self-discovery, the evolution of her relationships, and her strides in education. The discussion shifts to meaningful experiences concerning issues like racial disparities in healthcare, the need for better menopause care, particularly for women of color, and the importance of de-stigmatizing conversations about puberty and menopause. The episode ends with Dr. Cathy expressing her faith, her belief in everyone having a life assignment, and her aspiration to help individuals impacted by mass incarceration through coaching. 0:00 PTG_CathyAmesTurner 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host 01:10 Guest Introduction: Dr. Cathy Ames Turner 02:57 Dr. Cathy's Journey to Education and Self-Discovery 06:23 The Challenges and Triumphs of Menopause 24:47 Understanding Empathy and Self-Care 27:43 Journey of Personal Growth and Education 31:54 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change 40:25 The Power of Faith and Community Meet Dr. Cathy Ames Turner Dr. Cathy Ames Turner is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother (Oma), as well as a pastor, scholar-activist, and life empowerment coach. Known a by various titles such as Pastor Cathy, Dr. Cat, Miss Cathy, and Honey (by her husband, Tony), Cathy's diverse roles converge in coaching individuals, families, and professional teams through life's challenges and transitions. With a specific focus on issues related to carceral systems, foster care, and life-altering experiences, Cathy is committed to guiding individuals and families through successful reintegration or personal discovery. As a pastor in Central Virginia and clergy at the local regional jail, Cathy has witnessed the profound impacts of incarceration on families and children in the foster care system. This firsthand experience led her to earn a doctorate from Fielding Graduate University in 2023, focusing on the experiences of formerly incarcerated African American men during reintegration. Her research underscored the crucial role of relational reintegration and the support from faith communities, families, and reentry professionals for successful outcomes. In her coaching practice, Cathy provides a nurturing space for clients to cultivate self-awareness, engage in reflection, and take purposeful action. Drawing on psychology, human development, spiritual truths, and group dynamics, she facilitates progress with empathy and expertise. Cathy extends her transformative expertise to teams, fostering an environment where members grow together with open communication, trust, and a shared commitment to client success. In essence, Cathy Ames Turner embodies a multifaceted professional deeply committed to facilitating positive change in the lives of individuals, families, and teams. Connect with Bree Instagram: http://instagram.com/awkwardsagemedia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breeluck/ Join the FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pausetogopodcast Connect with Dr. Cathy Ames Turner https://www.communityhealingcoalition.org/ https://www.tableturners.org/ https://www.ricministries.org/ Production credit: Awkward Sage Media, LLC Did you love this episode? Check out other shows on the Awkward Sage Network! Her Leading Story Finding Harmony Podcast
