Walk With Me

Stephanie Bloom

Journey with real people who have lived a life worth telling a story about. Hear their experiences and the wisdom they have gained from them.

  1. 6d ago

    Shattering the Mirror: Healing Shame, Reclaiming Your Voice & Returning to Wholeness with Lena Fein

    In this deeply moving episode of Walk With Me Conversations, host Stephanie Bloom sits down with Lena Fein, author of Shattering the Mirror, to explore the lifelong impact of childhood shame, emotional trauma, and the powerful journey back to authenticity. Lena shares her story of growing up in a home shaped by criticism, emotional neglect, and generational trauma. From the heartbreak of having her childhood diary publicly exposed to decades spent hiding behind achievement and perfectionism, Lena opens up about how survival patterns can disconnect us from our true selves. At age 51, after the death of her mother, Lena experienced a profound emotional awakening that began a decade-long journey toward healing and wholeness. Through therapy, dance, singing, writing, and learning to be fully present in the moment, she slowly reclaimed the voice and joy she had buried for most of her life. This episode is an honest and compassionate conversation about: Childhood emotional abuse and shame Generational trauma and survival patterns The masks we wear to stay safe Learning self-compassion later in life Reconnecting to the body through movement and creativity Hospice work, death, and spiritual presence Finding authenticity, voice, and joy after trauma Why it's never too late to heal Lena's story is a reminder that healing doesn't erase the past—it transforms our relationship with it. Guest Information Lena Fein Author of Shattering the Mirror Available on Amazon, Audible, Barnes & Noble, and BookBaby. Connect & Support If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. Your support helps these conversations reach more people walking their own healing journey. Visit: 🌿 https://WalkWithMeConversations.com for more episodes, resources, and conversations centered around healing, growth, trauma recovery, and authentic living. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the podcast for future conversations that remind us we're never walking alone. My favorite guests book through PodMatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom   We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Purchase the supplements you already use at a discount here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/roottobloom

    42 min
  2. When You Stop Trying to Fit In with Dr. Albert Bramante

    May 26

    When You Stop Trying to Fit In with Dr. Albert Bramante

    In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Stephanie sits down with Dr. Albert Bermonti — performance psychologist, professor, author, talent agent, and NLP practitioner — to explore the lifelong journey of healing, belonging, and overcoming self-imposed limitations. Albert opens up about growing up feeling different in a blue-collar Italian family where sports defined connection, while he found refuge in books, libraries, creativity, and introspection. After experiencing devastating family loss, depression, and suicidal ideation as a teenager, he began searching for meaning through psychology, teaching, and eventually the world of performance and talent development. Together, Stephanie and Albert discuss: The impact of grief, family estrangement, and feeling unseen Why healing is rarely linear The importance of self-forgiveness and accountability without shame How purpose, creativity, and service to others can help pull us out of depression The power of language and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Why finding your own tribe matters more than "fitting in" The dangers of AI replacing authentic human connection How our perceptions shape the realities we experience This episode is an honest exploration of what it means to rebuild yourself after pain — and how compassion, curiosity, and meaningful connection can transform the way we move through life. Key Takeaways Healing takes time and requires gentleness with yourself You are not "broken" for responding normally to difficult circumstances Forgiveness is about freeing yourself, not excusing harmful behavior Purpose and meaningful activity are essential for mental wellness Small shifts in language can dramatically shift mindset and behavior Authentic connection matters more now than ever About Dr. Albert Bermonti Dr. Albert Bermonti is a performance psychologist, psychology professor, author, and talent agent who specializes in helping people overcome limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging patterns. His work blends psychology, NLP, hypnosis, mindset coaching, and performance development. He is also the host of the upcoming podcast Mental Rehearsal, focused on the emotional and psychological side of acting and performance. Connect with Dr. Albert Bermonti Podcast: Mental Rehearsal (coming soon) Books and upcoming projects on self-sabotage, mindset, and AI relationships Listen & Connect If this conversation resonated with you, please share this episode with someone who may need to hear it. Your support helps these stories and healing conversations reach more people. Visit WalkWithMeConversations.com for more podcast episodes, healing resources, articles, and upcoming projects focused on trauma recovery, personal growth, and embodied healing. Thank you for walking with us. My favorite guests book through PodMatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom   We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Purchase the supplements you already use at a discount here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/roottobloom

    42 min
  3. Nothing Like a Brain Hemorrhage to Refocus the Mind

    May 19

    Nothing Like a Brain Hemorrhage to Refocus the Mind

    What happens when a healthy, adventurous young professional suddenly wakes up unable to walk, talk, or smile? In this powerful episode of Walk With Me, Dan McQueen shares the incredible story of surviving a catastrophic brain hemorrhage after what initially seemed like "just headaches." From a vibrant life in London working for Hootsuite to emergency brain surgery, a coma, and the brutal process of relearning how to function, Dan's story is a masterclass in resilience, mindset, and refusing to surrender. Rather than embracing victimhood, Dan chose something different: relentless determination. Through humor, honesty, and unforgettable storytelling, he reveals how perspective became the foundation of his recovery and how small daily decisions rebuilt his life one step at a time. Now a keynote speaker based in Vancouver, Canada, Dan speaks internationally about resilience, change management, motivation, and navigating adversity with intention. In This Episode, We Discuss: Growing up in Canada and building resilience through sports Moving to Sweden and London in pursuit of adventure and career opportunities The terrifying moment Dan suddenly lost his vision in a London tube station Discovering a non-cancerous cyst on his pineal gland Emergency brain surgery complications and surviving a brain hemorrhage Waking from a coma unable to walk or speak The mindset that carried him through rehabilitation Relearning how to walk in one of London's toughest neighborhoods Why perspective changes everything "It's not what happens to you, but how you respond that matters" The importance of daily decisions and intentional living Turning pain into purpose through public speaking Memorable Quotes from Dan: "I wasn't going to let this define me." "If I can walk here, I can walk anywhere." "You get to do this." "Play the hand you've got and play it as best you possibly can." "When you change the way you look at the world, the world you look at changes." Connect with Dan McQueen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmcqueen/ Call to Action If this conversation encouraged or inspired you, please share this episode with someone who may need hope, resilience, or a reminder that perspective matters. For more inspiring stories, healing conversations, and resources for personal growth, visit: 🌿 https://WalkWithMeConversations.com My favorite guests book through PodMatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom   We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Purchase the supplements you already use at a discount here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/roottobloom

    30 min
  4. May 12

    Turning Relationship Failure Into Healing: Understanding Attachment, Patterns & Growth with Brian Power

    What if the struggles in your relationships aren't random—but rooted in patterns you've been carrying your whole life? In this episode, Stephanie sits down with Brian Power, an integrated attachment theory coach, to explore how childhood experiences shape the way we love, communicate, and connect. From a chaotic upbringing marked by instability and addiction to nearly losing his marriage, Brian shares the journey that forced him to confront his deepest wounds—and ultimately transform them. This conversation is a powerful look at what happens when we stop blaming, start taking ownership, and finally learn the tools we were never taught. In This Episode, We Explore: How childhood instability and abandonment wounds shape adult relationships The impact of addiction, emotional absence, and generational patterns Why we repeat unhealthy relationship cycles (even when we don't want to) The role of subconscious beliefs in driving behavior What attachment theory is—and why it matters How miscommunication and emotional triggers escalate conflict The breaking point that nearly ended Brian's marriage How doing individual healing work can transform a relationship The importance of tools, structure, and support in personal growth Why healing is a lifelong process—not a one-time fix Key Takeaways: We are not broken—but we are often carrying unhealed wounds Awareness is the first step to changing patterns You can't change your partner—but you can change how you show up Even one person doing the work can shift a relationship dynamic Rock bottom can become the foundation for transformation Healing requires consistency, support, and willingness to look inward About the Guest: Brian Power Brian Power is an Integrated Attachment Theory Coach dedicated to helping individuals and couples understand their patterns, heal core wounds, and build healthier relationships. After transforming his own relationship through deep inner work, Brian now helps others navigate the same journey. Connect with Brian: Website: https://myrelationshipfail.com Podcast: My Relationship Fail Free Relationship Strategy Session available through his website Call to Action If this episode resonated with you, and you're ready to go deeper into your own healing journey, visit: 👉 https://WalkWithMeConversations.com Explore more conversations, tools, and resources designed to support your growth, your relationships, and your path toward embodied healing. And if you found value in this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it—because healing expands when we walk together. My favorite guests book through PodMatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom   We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Click here to schedule a 1-on-1 private discovery call: https://calendly.com/stephanie-bloom5280/free-discovery-call-15-minutes  Follow our YouTube channel: youtu.be/PyfCcN2Ev04   Purchase the supplements you already use at a discount here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/roottobloom

    49 min
  5. May 5

    Brighter Days Ahead: Healing Trauma Through Brain Health with Dr. Theodore Henderson

    A powerful conversation on trauma, suicide, shame, and healing through brain health. Dr. Theodore Henderson shares how neuroplasticity, ketamine, and infrared light therapy are changing mental health treatment. What if healing isn't just about coping—but actually repairing the brain? In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Theodore Henderson shares his journey from severe childhood trauma and years of suicidal ideation to becoming a leading voice in brain health and innovative mental health treatment. We explore the lived reality of trauma, the hidden role of shame, and the small, daily decisions that can keep someone alive when everything feels impossible. Dr. Henderson also breaks down the science behind neuroplasticity and how emerging treatments like ketamine therapy and infrared light are helping people heal from depression, PTSD, and even dementia. This conversation challenges the way we think about mental health—and opens the door to something far more hopeful. Keywords trauma healing, PTSD recovery, neuroplasticity, ketamine therapy, infrared light therapy, depression treatment, brain health, childhood trauma, mental health podcast, suicide awareness Timestamps  00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Theodore Henderson 05:00 – Childhood trauma and survival 15:00 – Living with suicidal ideation 25:00 – Understanding shame as a survival mechanism 35:00 – From trauma to purpose 45:00 – Neuroplasticity and brain healing 55:00 – Ketamine therapy explained 01:05:00 – Infrared light therapy and breakthrough treatments 01:15:00 – Why brain health > mental health Resources & Links Book: Brighter Days Ahead  If this episode spoke to you, there's more support waiting for you. Visit https://WalkWithMeConversations.com for more conversations, tools, and resources to support your healing journey. Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder: brighter days are possible. Click here to join PodMatch and be my guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom   We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Click here to schedule a 1-on-1 private discovery call: https://calendly.com/stephanie-bloom5280/free-discovery-call-15-minutes  Follow our YouTube channel: youtu.be/PyfCcN2Ev04

    41 min
  6. Apr 29

    Turning Pain Into Purpose: How One Childhood Divorce Shaped a Mission to Create Peaceful Separation

    Episode Summary What happens when the conflict you grow up in becomes the very thing you're called to change? In this episode, I sit down with Joe Dillon, divorce mediator and co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services, who shares his deeply personal story of growing up as an only child in the middle of a long, litigated divorce in the 1980s. What began as a childhood shaped by silence, conflict, and emotional disconnection followed him into adulthood—impacting his relationships, emotional regulation, and worldview. But Joe's story doesn't end there. After years of navigating his own patterns, he reached a pivotal moment in his 30s that changed everything—choosing to stop reacting from his past and start creating a different future. That decision not only transformed his personal life, but ultimately led him into a career helping others avoid the same kind of damage he experienced. Today, Joe helps couples move through divorce in a way that prioritizes respect, emotional awareness, and the well-being of their children—proving that even in endings, there can be intention, integrity, and peace. In This Episode, We Discuss: What it's like to grow up in a high-conflict divorce How unresolved childhood trauma impacts adult relationships The moment everything shifted: choosing response over reaction Emotional regulation and why it matters in conflict "Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy?" The hidden dynamics behind arguments (it's rarely about the surface issue) How mediation creates a healthier path through divorce The long-term impact of conflict on children—and how to reduce harm Why preparation is critical in any negotiation Turning pain into purpose and using your story to serve others Key Takeaway "It didn't happen to me… it just happened. Now what am I going to do with it?" Joe's story is a powerful reminder that while we can't always control what happens to us, we can choose how we move forward—and that choice can change everything. About Joe Dillon Joe Dillon is a divorce mediator and co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services. With a background in finance and negotiation, combined with his lived experience as a child of divorce, Joe helps couples navigate separation in a way that is cost-effective, respectful, and focused on long-term well-being—especially for families with children. Connect with Joe 🌐 Website: https://equitablemediation.com Call to Action If this conversation resonated with you, or if you're navigating your own healing journey, I invite you to explore more resources, conversations, and support. 👉 Visit https://WalkWithMeConversations.com You'll find podcast episodes, tools, and insights designed to help you move forward with more awareness, intention, and peace. And if you know someone who could benefit from this conversation, share this episode with them. You never know who might need to hear it.We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show:Click here to join PodMatch: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/stephaniebloom    CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Click here to schedule a 1-on-1 private discovery call: https://calendly.com/stephanie-bloom5280/free-discovery-call-15-minutes  Follow our YouTube channel: youtu.be/PyfCcN2Ev04

    51 min
  7. Apr 21

    Pivot to Possible: Navigating Grief, Loss, and Resilience with Becky Smith-Gallai

    Episode Summary What does it really look like to rebuild your life after unimaginable loss? In this deeply moving conversation, I sit down with Becky Smith-Gallai, author, speaker, and resilience expert, whose life has been shaped by profound adversity—and an unwavering commitment to finding possibility through it. From losing her brother at a young age… to raising multiple children with complex medical needs… to becoming suddenly paralyzed as a single mother—Becky's story is not just about survival. It's about transformation. Together, we explore how grief evolves over time, how to navigate uncertainty when there are no answers, and the practical tools that can help you keep moving forward—even in the hardest seasons of life. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to carry what life has handed you—this conversation will meet you there. In This Episode, We Discuss: Becky's concept of "Pivot to Possible" and what it means in real life Navigating multiple layers of grief and unexpected loss The reality of raising children with special needs Living with paralysis and rebuilding identity after life-changing events Why grief is a "strange companion" that never fully leaves The power of journaling to process emotions and move forward How to build your support system—"who's in your boat" Managing uncertainty and conserving your emotional energy Turning pain into purpose through writing and service Daily practices that support resilience, gratitude, and healing Key Takeaways: Grief looks different for everyone—and there is no "right" way to process it You don't have to have all the answers to take the next step Small, consistent actions can carry you through even the darkest seasons Community and connection are essential for healing Life can be good… but it takes intention and effort About Becky Smith-Gallai Becky Smith-Gallai is an author, speaker, and advocate for resilience and possibility. Through her writing and lived experience, she helps others navigate grief, uncertainty, and life's unexpected challenges. She is the author of: Rethinking Possible: A Memoir of Resilience Morning Fuel: Daily Inspirations to Stretch Your Mind Before Starting Your Day Her work has touched thousands through her writing, speaking, and the communities she's helped build. Connect with Becky https://rebeccafayesmithgalli.com/ Books available through major retailers (Amazon, etc.) Call to Action If this conversation resonated with you, I invite you to take the next step in your own journey. 👉 Visit WalkWithMeConversations.com for more powerful conversations, resources, and tools to support your healing, growth, and transformation. And if you found value in this episode: Share it with someone who needs to hear it Leave a review to help us reach more people Subscribe so you never miss a conversation Final Thought "Life can be good no matter what… but the operative word is can. It takes effort—but it's worth pivoting to possible." We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Click here to schedule a 1-on-1 private discovery call: https://calendly.com/stephanie-bloom5280/free-discovery-call-15-minutes  Follow our YouTube channel: youtu.be/PyfCcN2Ev04

    44 min
  8. Apr 14

    Building Brotherhood, Purpose, and Personal Strength with Edward Okafor

    In this episode of Walk With Me Conversations, we sit down with Edward Okafor, a high-performance wellness strategist and founder of Wisdom of Men, a platform focused on helping men develop discipline, confidence, and supportive brotherhood. Raised in North Carolina by a single mother, Edward grew up navigating life without a consistent male role model — an experience that deeply shaped his understanding of the challenges many men face today. After studying industrial design and briefly stepping into the corporate world, Edward realized the traditional path wasn't aligned with his purpose. A life-changing opportunity took him overseas, where he eventually built a life centered around education, personal growth, and helping others become the strongest version of themselves. Through personal struggles, heartbreak, therapy, and self-reflection, Edward discovered a deeper calling: creating communities where men can find support, accountability, and connection. Today, he leads wellness initiatives, networking events, and brotherhood communities focused on mindset, discipline, health, and personal development. This conversation explores purpose, healing, masculinity, and the importance of building strong communities in a world where many people feel increasingly disconnected. In This Episode We Discuss • Growing up without consistent male role models • How martial arts shaped discipline and mindset • Choosing purpose over the traditional corporate path • Living internationally and expanding perspective • The impact of heartbreak and personal transformation • ADHD, therapy, and understanding how the mind works • Building brotherhood and community for men • The role of discipline, movement, and physical health in emotional healing • Why mindset and environment shape the life you create Key Takeaways Community matters Many men struggle in isolation. Building strong brotherhood networks can provide accountability, support, and growth. Hard experiences can become catalysts for growth Heartbreak and adversity can reveal deeper purpose when approached with reflection and intention. Discipline creates freedom Daily habits like exercise, mindset work, and self-reflection create the foundation for long-term well-being. Life moves forward whether we participate or not Purpose must be chosen intentionally, or we risk living according to someone else's vision. Resources & Links Edward Okafor Platform: Wisdom of Men – Men's wellness and personal development community Connect with Walk With Me Conversations If you enjoyed this episode and want more conversations about healing, growth, and resilience: 🌿 Visit the official website: https://WalkWithMeConversations.com There you can explore: • Full podcast episodes • Guest resources and articles • Healing tools and modalities • Insights from the Walk With Me community Share This Episode If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who may benefit from hearing it. These stories are meant to remind us that none of us walk the path alone. We couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show: CashApp- https://cash.app/$WalkWithMeSteph Venmo- https://venmo/StephanieBloom5280 Click here to purchase my book on Amazon   Click here to schedule a 1-on-1 private discovery call: https://calendly.com/stephanie-bloom5280/free-discovery-call-15-minutes  Follow our YouTube channel: youtu.be/PyfCcN2Ev04

    49 min
5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Journey with real people who have lived a life worth telling a story about. Hear their experiences and the wisdom they have gained from them.