Flying Upstream Podcast

Kristyn Medeiros

Tired of the same old version of success that everyone around you keeps chasing? Flying Upstream is your invitation to question it all. Hosted by Kristyn Medeiros, this show takes you inside the lives of people who refuse to follow the script and choose to live with purpose, courage, and absolute authenticity. Each episode uncovers the untold stories of those who broke away from expectations and built lives that actually feel meaningful. You will hear about powerful transformations, unconventional paths, ancient and modern wisdom, and the real moments that change everything. This podcast is h

  1. MAY 5

    EP 182: Reinvention and Telling the Truth About a Meaningful Life with Cinda Gault

    In this thought-provoking episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with writer Cinda Gault to explore her journey from a career in social services to becoming a storyteller dedicated to capturing the depth and complexity of women’s lives. What began as a search for meaningful work evolved into a deeper realization: sometimes the “right” path on paper isn’t the one that fulfills you. Cinda shares how honesty became the turning point in her life—learning to listen to her inner voice rather than societal expectations. Through her writing, she brings to life the struggles, courage, and resilience of women across generations, with a particular focus on the transformative era of the 1970s—a time that reshaped conversations around identity, autonomy, and opportunity. The conversation explores the ongoing challenges women face today in balancing ambition, motherhood, and personal fulfillment, and how those themes echo across time. Cinda emphasizes that storytelling is not just about entertainment—it’s about truth, connection, and honoring the experiences that shape who we are. This episode is a powerful reminder that living a meaningful life requires courage, honesty, and a willingness to step outside convention—and that the stories we tell can inspire others to do the same. #PodMatch 00:00 Finding purpose through storytelling02:07 The journey to writing06:13 The courage to change paths09:54 The evolution of storytelling13:56 Women breaking conventions18:12 Lessons from the 1970s18:53 Embracing honesty for a meaningful life Subscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4 Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaA Explore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_ women's stories, writing journey, courage, historical fiction, breaking conventions, meaningful life, storytelling, personal growth, women's history, 1970s

    21 min
  2. APR 21

    181: What Happens After 18? Navigating Adulthood on the Autism Spectrum

    In this insightful episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with April Ratchford, an occupational therapist and advocate for autistic adults, to explore a critical and often overlooked transition: life after high school. While many systems provide structure and support during childhood, April highlights the significant gap that exists once individuals enter adulthood. Drawing from both her professional experience and her personal journey of discovering her own autism, April shares a unique and compassionate perspective on what autistic individuals truly need as they move toward independence. She discusses the challenges families face navigating limited resources, the importance of meeting individuals where they are, and why the timeline to independence may look different—and that’s okay. The conversation also explores the role of technology as both a powerful tool and a potential challenge, depending on how it’s guided. April emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and helping individuals pursue their passions as a pathway to purpose and fulfillment. This episode is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and anyone seeking to better understand how to support autistic individuals beyond traditional milestones—and a reminder that growth and direction are not bound by age. #PodMatch 00:00 Introduction to Flying Upstream00:57 April Ratchford’s journey and insights04:08 The challenges of transitioning to adulthood10:13 The importance of support systems14:06 The role of podcasting in advocacy19:55 Technology and its impact on learning23:00 Advice for parents and future directions Subscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4 Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaA Explore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_ autism, adulthood, podcasting, support systems, transition, occupational therapy, community, technology, independence, parenting

    25 min
  3. APR 9

    180: Are You Stuck in the “Fine Zone”? Break Free and Live an Extraordinary Life

    In this powerful episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with Susan Hall to explore a life-altering journey through adversity, resilience, and personal transformation. After being diagnosed with a rare bone cancer while navigating multiple personal challenges, Susan was forced to confront not only her circumstances—but the way she had been living her life.At the heart of this conversation is the concept of the “fine zone”—a place where life feels comfortable, acceptable, and predictable… but ultimately unfulfilled. Susan shares how staying in “fine” can quietly keep people stuck, preventing them from stepping into the extraordinary life they’re truly capable of living.Through vulnerability and hard-earned wisdom, Susan emphasizes that adversity does not have to define you—it can refine you. She invites listeners to ask a powerful question: How can I use this experience to help others? From there, she breaks down how small, intentional actions, paired with gratitude and self-awareness, can create meaningful change.This episode is a call to stop settling, to embrace your unique journey, and to recognize that you always have a choice in how you respond to life. Because growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable—it comes from stepping forward, one decision at a time.#PodMatch00:00 Introduction to the journey of self-discovery01:52 The year that changed everything11:13 Finding strength in adversity19:36 Breaking free from the fine zone24:49 Embracing your unique journeySubscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaAExplore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/Susan Hall's Site: https://www.decidehappy.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_self-discovery, personal growth, overcoming adversity, fine zone, gratitude, vulnerability, extraordinary life, mental health, resilience, empowerment

    28 min
  4. MAR 31

    EP 179: Find Your Voice: From Fear to Confident Public Speaking

    In this empowering episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with Debbie Fay to explore her inspiring journey from personal adversity to becoming a successful public speaking coach. Debbie shares how a pivotal moment in her life led her to pursue her passion for helping others communicate with confidence and clarity.Together, they unpack one of the most common fears people face—public speaking—and why it holds so many back from sharing their ideas, stories, and expertise. Debbie offers practical insights on how to shift your mindset, manage nerves, and step into your voice with confidence. One of her most powerful messages is simple but transformative: when you focus on serving your audience, your fear begins to fade.Debbie also dives into the art of storytelling, the importance of rehearsing out loud, and how to craft presentations that truly resonate. She encourages listeners to see their message as a gift—something that could impact, inspire, or even change someone else’s life.This conversation is a powerful reminder that confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. And your voice is meant to be heard.#PodMatch00:00 The journey to public speaking coaching12:06 Overcoming fear and building confidence17:46 Creating impactful presentations21:55 Encouragement to share your voiceSubscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaAExplore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_public speaking, coaching, confidence, presentations, fear, storytelling, personal growth, communication, audience engagement, career change

    24 min
  5. MAR 26

    178: MLB to Motivational Speaker: Michael Bugary’s Journey of Identity, Addiction, and Recovery

    In this powerful episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros speaks with Michael Bugary, whose life journey is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of rebuilding from rock bottom. Once a promising athlete, Michael’s identity was deeply tied to baseball—until a devastating arm injury abruptly ended his career and left him questioning who he was without the game.What followed was a difficult descent into addiction, compounded by a life-altering brain tumor diagnosis. Michael shares the raw reality of losing his sense of self-worth, numbing pain through substance use, and feeling like he was merely surviving rather than truly living. But within those darkest moments, a path toward recovery began to emerge.A turning point in Michael’s journey came through unexpected healing—particularly through his therapy dog, Lingo, who helped him reconnect with presence, purpose, and emotional awareness. Through resilience, acceptance, and a commitment to growth, Michael began rebuilding his life, eventually stepping into a new role as a motivational speaker and author dedicated to helping others.This episode is a reminder that identity is not defined by achievements, that even the deepest struggles can lead to meaningful transformation, and that no matter how far you’ve fallen, you are still worthy of a new beginning.#PodMatch00:00 The journey of identity and loss09:48 Facing adversity: cancer and addiction19:56 Finding purpose and redemptionSubscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaAExplore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_identity, addiction, recovery, resilience, motivation, mental health, personal growth, baseball, cancer, transformation

    22 min
  6. MAR 24

    177: From Ministry to the FBI: Eric Robinson’s Unlikely Reinvention

    In this compelling episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with Eric Robinson to explore a powerful story of reinvention, resilience, and listening to your inner voice—even when it leads you somewhere unexpected. After spending 12 years in Christian ministry, Eric found himself emotionally exhausted and questioning whether the path he was on was truly aligned with who he was.Despite building an inclusive and welcoming church community, the emotional toll of ministry began to weigh heavily. Eric opens up about the internal conflict of feeling like he was letting people down while also knowing he needed to make a change for his own well-being. That decision ultimately led him to a surprising new chapter—a 24-year career with the FBI.Through his experiences in law enforcement, including time on a SWAT team, Eric gained a deeper understanding of human behavior, resilience, and the balance between authority and compassion. He shares how stepping into a completely different role allowed him to show up more authentically and find fulfillment in ways he hadn’t expected.This conversation is a reminder that change is not failure—it’s often necessary. And sometimes the path that feels the most uncertain is the one that leads you back to yourself.#PodMatch00:00 Introduction to Flying Upstream and Eric Robinson’s journey02:21 From ministry to the FBI: a dramatic career shift05:20 Creating an inclusive church community10:12 The emotional toll of ministry and the need for change11:41 Transitioning to the FBI: finding freedom16:28 Life on the SWAT team: balancing kindness and authority20:46 Understanding human nature through law enforcement23:38 Encouragement for those feeling stuckSubscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaAExplore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_Flying Upstream, Eric Robinson, career change, FBI, ministry, human behavior, personal growth, resilience, inclusivity, emotional health

    26 min
  7. MAR 19

    176: Why You Feel Stuck (Even When You Know Something Isn’t Right)

    In this solo episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros dives into a question so many people quietly carry: Why do I feel stuck, even when I know something isn’t right? Through honest reflection, she explores the invisible forces that keep people in place—long after they’ve outgrown the life they’re living.Kristyn unpacks the psychological patterns behind staying stuck, including fear of the unknown, societal and family expectations, the sunk cost fallacy, and the way identity can become something we feel obligated to maintain rather than something we consciously choose. She highlights the uncomfortable truth that awareness alone doesn’t create change—action does, and that action often feels risky.This episode is a reminder that the familiar can feel safer than the unknown, even when it’s unfulfilling. But it also offers a path forward: small, honest, courageous steps. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin—you just need to be willing to question what no longer feels aligned.If you’ve been feeling uncertain, restless, or quietly disconnected, this conversation invites you to see that you’re not alone—and that feeling stuck might actually be the beginning of something new.#PodMatch00:00 Introduction to Flying Upstream01:05 The struggle of feeling stuck03:54 Awareness vs. action: the dilemma06:19 The weight of expectations08:16 The sunk cost fallacy09:43 Identity and change10:39 The illusion of others’ certainty11:36 Small steps to break free13:04 Conclusion and reflectionSubscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaAExplore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_self-discovery, personal growth, life changes, authenticity, overcoming fear, expectations, identity crisis, mental health, courage, podcast

    14 min
  8. MAR 17

    175: From Anxiety to Empowerment: The Transformative Power of Hypnotherapy

    In this insightful episode of Flying Upstream, host Kristyn Medeiros sits down with Craig Merriweather, a certified clinical hypnotherapist, to explore the deeper layers of mental health, healing, and the subconscious mind. After facing his own struggles with depression and anxiety, Craig began searching for answers beyond traditional approaches—leading him to the transformative world of hypnotherapy. Craig breaks down the misconceptions surrounding hypnotherapy, emphasizing that it is not about control, but empowerment. He explains how the subconscious mind stores emotional patterns, beliefs, and past experiences that shape our reactions, often without our awareness. By accessing this deeper layer of the mind, individuals can begin to rewire thought patterns, release emotional wounds, and create lasting change. The conversation also touches on the role of anxiety as a signal rather than a flaw, the concept of past life regression as a tool for insight, and the idea that healing is not something external—it’s something we access within ourselves. Craig’s perspective invites listeners to see themselves not as broken, but as capable of profound self-healing and transformation. This episode is a powerful reminder that you can change the program—and that true empowerment begins when you understand the mind behind it. #PodMatch 00:00 The evolution of mental health awareness04:53 The power of hypnotherapy09:59 Understanding the subconscious mind20:02 Exploring past life regression24:56 Empowerment through self-healing Subscribe to the Flying Upstream newsletter and join a growing community of visionary souls, healers, and creativeshttps://flying-upstream.kit.com/5a525057c4 Watch this episode on the Flying Upstream YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCru9Sle2Ms_tmgEL_Bo8ZaA Explore the Flying Upstream Bloghttps://flyingupstreamblog.com/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563051165826Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingupstreampodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flying-upstream-podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flyingupstream_ mental health, hypnotherapy, subconscious mind, anxiety, self-help, personal growth, past life regression, healing, empowerment, emotional well-being

    29 min
5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Tired of the same old version of success that everyone around you keeps chasing? Flying Upstream is your invitation to question it all. Hosted by Kristyn Medeiros, this show takes you inside the lives of people who refuse to follow the script and choose to live with purpose, courage, and absolute authenticity. Each episode uncovers the untold stories of those who broke away from expectations and built lives that actually feel meaningful. You will hear about powerful transformations, unconventional paths, ancient and modern wisdom, and the real moments that change everything. This podcast is h