The Lived Experiences Podcast

Dr. Tamea Ryan
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Welcome to The Lived Experiences podcast. My name is Dr. Tamea Ryan. On this podcast, I dive deep into the inspiring journeys of individuals on a path toward self-improvement, self-care, and resiliency. Join me as I explore the challenges faced, the strategies employed, and the victories celebrated along the way. Get ready to be motivated, uplifted, and empowered as stories of growth, healing, and transformation unfold.

  1. What Success Can't Heal: A Conversation with DeMonta Whiting

    12/31/2025

    What Success Can't Heal: A Conversation with DeMonta Whiting

    In this powerful Season 2 finale, I sit down with DeMonta Whiting, MA, LMFT, a psychotherapist and leadership coach who helps high-achieving men break the hidden patterns that keep them successful on paper but unfulfilled in real life. This conversation explores a truth most successful people don't talk about: how early unmet emotional needs can drive a lifelong pursuit of achievement that never quite fills the void.DeMonta brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to this discussion. As someone who knows what it's like to be "the responsible one" - the person everyone depends on who rarely has anyone to depend on themselves - he offers unique insights into the cost of self-reliance and the exhaustion of always being "on."🔍 In our conversation, we explore:• How early unmet emotional needs shape patterns of achievement• The impact of repeated disappointments and high expectations with few emotional rewards• Why the desire for love and acceptance can drive unfulfilling achievement• How childhood experiences create lifelong patterns of self-reliance and low trust• Recognizing when success is masking deeper emotional needs• Warning signs that achievement has become a substitute for connection• Why high-achieving men specifically struggle with trust and intimacy• The difference between healthy ambition and achievement driven by unmet needs• How to recognize this pattern in yourself or loved ones• The process of "unlearning survival skills" that no longer serve you• Breaking the cycle of using success to earn love and acceptance• Building authentic relationships after years of self-reliance• Practical steps toward finding fulfillment beyond achievementDeMonta's work focuses on helping executives, attorneys, investors, athletes, and creatives transform self-reliance into emotional strength, repair relationships, and build lives that feel successful on the inside - not just from the outside. His direct, effective approach has earned him features in MensInsider, Shout Out LA, and VoyageLA.This season finale is essential listening for high achievers, anyone who feels successful but unfulfilled, partners of high-achieving individuals, and anyone who recognizes the pattern of chasing achievement to fill an emotional void. Chapters: 00:00: Introduction to the Lived Experience Podcast 01:10: Diving into Personal Journeys 09:30: Understanding Success and Burnout 13:45: The Impact of High Expectations 18:00: Challenges in Personal Change 22:15: Emotional Vulnerability and Trust Building 27:00: Revelations and Personal Growth 31:30: Overcoming Personal Barriers 36:00: Conclusion and Final Thoughts Stay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The Lived Experiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: DeMonta Whiting, MA, LMFT 🌐 Website: https://www.demontawhiting.com 📱 Instagram: deethetherapist About The Lived Experiences Podcast: I'm Dr. Tamea Ryan, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Coach. Through this podcast, I create meaningful conversations about personal journeys, transformation, and the wisdom we gain through our lived experiences. Thank you for an incredible Season 2! We'll be back with more powerful conversations in the new year.🎧 Season 2 finale drops December 31st 💬 What does true fulfillment look like to you? Share in the comments Like and subscribe - Season 3 is coming soon! #TheLivedExperiencesPodcast #DeMontaWhiting #SeasonFinale #HighAchievers #UnmetNeeds #Success #SelfReliance #EmotionalHealing #mensmentalhealth Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/sensho/warm-blanketLicense code: ZIXRXOEEE5QUCKQZ

    30 min
  2. Balancing It All: Faith, Family, and Entrepreneurship with Nichica Melton

    12/10/2025

    Balancing It All: Faith, Family, and Entrepreneurship with Nichica Melton

    In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Nichica F.Melton, M.Ed., a woman who embodies the art of balancing multiple passions and responsibilities. As a wife, mother of six, ministry partner, and successful entrepreneur, Nichica brings unique insights into managing life's many demandswhile pursuing professional excellence and maintaining your sanity. With a Master's in Education Administration from UNC-ChapelHill, Nichica has channeled her expertise into multiple thriving businesses including JEMs Realty and Design, P31 Designs, and What She Said Coaching. As an international speaker and productivity coach, she helps high-achieving professionals enhance their productivity and success without burning out in the process. 🔍 In our conversation, weexplore:   ·        How Nichica's journey into entrepreneurshipbegan alongside family life ·        Managing six children, multiple businesses, andministry work ·        The productivity principles that have been mostcrucial in her life ·        How faith influences her approach to businessand leadership ·        Her background in education and how it shapesher coaching approach ·        Unique challenges faced as a woman entrepreneur ·        Navigating the "infamous list" we allcarry and how to tackle it ·        Breaking free from the pressure to just be"busy" ·        Strategies for women feeling overwhelmed byprofessional and personal responsibilities ·        Balancing real estate, design, and coachingacross multiple industries ·        How these different business ventures complementeach other ·        Maintaining focus without losing yourself in thehustle ·        Advice for women called to entrepreneurship buthesitant due to family responsibilities   What makes Nichica's story so compelling is her honestapproach to the juggling act we all face. She doesn't pretend it's easy -instead, she shares the real strategies that help her thrive rather than justsurvive. Her P31 Designs business name references Proverbs 31, reflecting howher faith grounds everything she does. This conversation is perfect for women entrepreneurs, busymoms, anyone balancing multiple roles, and those seeking practical wisdom onproductivity without sacrificing peace. Chapters: 00:00: Introduction to Nichica Melton 01:00: Journey to Entrepreneurship 03:00: Early Challenges and Lessons 05:27: Balancing Faith, Family & Work 07:30: The Role of Faith in Business 10:39: Creating a Business Plan 13:00: Understanding Your Niche Market 15:00: Productivity vs. Busyness 18:00: Importance of Rest and Self-Care 20:00: Learning to Say No 23:09: Final Thoughts and Advice   Stay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The LivedExperiences  ________________________________ Stay Connected: Nichica Melton, M.Ed 🌐 Website: https://mindingmybusiness.vip 📱 Instagram:NichicaFMelton 👥 Facebook: NichicaMelton

    27 min
  3. Real Talk: The Truth About Perimenopause

    11/26/2025

    Real Talk: The Truth About Perimenopause

    In this essential episode, I sit down with psychologist Kim Long for an honest, compassionate conversation about perimenopause - a transition that affects millions of women yet so many feel unprepared for. Kim brings both her professional expertise and lived experience to help us understand what's really happening during this transformative time. Growing up as a military kid overseas, Kim learned early that acceptance and compassion matter - lessons that now shape her therapeutic approach. When you sit with Kim, you don't get the aloof therapist version; you get the real human who's been through life's mess too. Her belief that healing happens when mind, body, and emotion start listening to each other is especially relevant during perimenopause.🔍 In our conversation, we explore:• What perimenopause really is and why education matters• The emotional and psychological shifts women experience• Why you might feel like you don't know who you are anymore• How perimenopause can be misdiagnosed as other mental health issues• The importance of self-advocacy in medical settings• Reconnecting mind, body, and emotion during transition• How to move through this change with self-compassion• Understanding that you're evolving, not disappearing• Practical strategies for navigating the physical and emotional symptoms• Finding yourself again (or maybe for the first time)What makes this conversation so valuable is Kim's reminder that "we don't lose the pieces we've collected along the way unless we choose to shut them out." Perimenopause isn't about losing yourself - it's about understanding who you're becoming. This episode is essential listening for women navigating perimenopause, those who want to prepare for what's ahead, and anyone supporting women through this transition. Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Background05:00 - Understanding Perimenopause10:00 - Emotional and Psychological Impact15:00 - Advocacy and Self-Education20:00 - Embracing Change and Self-Care25:00 - Community and Support Systems30:00 - Closing Thoughts and ResourcesStay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The Lived Experiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: Kim Long🌐 Website: www.dochaspsych.com 📱 Instagram: dochaspsych #TheLivedExperiencesPodcast #KimLong #Perimenopause #WomensHealth #Menopause #MentalHealth #SelfAdvocacy #MidlifeTransition #PodcastInterview #NewEpisode

    41 min
  4. Mindful Margins-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    11/05/2025

    Mindful Margins-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    Mindful Margins: Maz Alexander on Compassion Fatigue and Boundaries for Helping Professionals | The Lived Experiences PodcastIn this essential episode, I sit down with Maz Alexander, a social worker and coach hailing all the way from London, to discuss a topic that doesn't get nearly enough attention - compassion fatigue and burnout among helping professionals and caregivers. Maz brings vital insights into the challenges faced by therapists, nurses, social workers, and anyone in caring professions who give so much of themselves that they often forget to care for their own well-being.🔍 In our conversation, we explore:• Understanding compassion fatigue and how it differs from regular burnout• Recognizing the early warning signs before you hit a breaking point• The struggle of taking on too much and the difficulty of saying no• Creating healthy boundaries while serving in caregiver roles• Why helping professionals are particularly vulnerable to burnout• Practical strategies for protecting your mental and emotional health• The importance of "mindful margins" in your life and work• Self-care practices that actually work for busy caregivers• Overcoming guilt when prioritizing your own needs• Building sustainable practices in helping professionsWhat makes this conversation so crucial is that Maz addresses the unique challenges faced by those whose entire profession is built around caring for others. The pressure to always be available, the guilt around setting boundaries, and the slow erosion of well-being that happens when we neglect our own needs - these are realities that too many helpers face in silence.This episode is a must-listen for anyone in healthcare, social work, therapy, education, ministry, or any role where you're constantly giving to others. It's also valuable for leaders and organizations who want to better support their caregiving staff.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Welcome03:00 - Maz Alexander's Journey and Background06:00 - Challenges Faced by Caregivers09:00 - Importance of Setting Boundaries12:00 - Professional vs. Personal Caregiving15:00 - Recognizing and Preventing Burnout18:00 - Overcoming Guilt and Shame21:00 - Reclaiming Identity and Purpose24:00 - COVID-19's Impact on Self-Reflection27:00 - Closing Remarks and Contact InformationStay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The Lived Experiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: Zoey Michaels 🌐 LinkedIn: Maz Alexander📱 Instagram: maztransformationalcoaching📚 Amazon: Arise Kintsugi Queens: You Are Becoming All You Were Meant to Be

    28 min
  5. Inside the Scammer's Playbook-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    10/22/2025

    Inside the Scammer's Playbook-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with author Zoey Michaels, whose personal experience as a scam survivor transformed into a powerful mission to protect others from fraud. Zoey shares her courageous journey of being manipulated by scammers and how she turned that painful experience into her book "Breaking Free: How Scammers Manipulate and How to Fight Back."🔍 In our conversation, we explore:• Zoey's personal experience falling victim to scammers• How she created a timeline and reverse-engineered the manipulation tactics used against her• The dual perspective approach in her book (scammer and target viewpoints)• Common psychological tricks scammers use to exploit victims• Red flags everyone should watch for to identify potential scams• How technology has changed the scamming landscape• Practical steps to take if you or a loved one is being targeted• Ways friends and family can recognize when someone is being scammed• The healing journey from scam victim to advocate• Creating her podcast to give other survivors a platform to share their storiesWhat makes Zoey's work so vital is her unique approach of showing both the scammer's thought process and the victim's experience. Her book serves as both a gripping narrative and a practical defense guide against fraud, helping readers understand how easily anyone can be manipulated. Chapters:0:00: Introduction and Guest Introduction5:00: Zoe's Personal Experience with Scams10:00: Understanding the Psychology of Scammers15:00: Emotional and Financial Impact of Scams20:00: Strategies for Protection and Recovery25:00: The Role of Family and Friends30:00: Breaking the Stigma Around Being Scammed35:00: Resources and Final Thoughts#TheLivedExperiencesPodcast #ZoeyMichaels #BreakingFree #ScamAwareness #FraudPrevention #ConsumerProtection #ScamSurvivor #PodcastInterview #NewEpisodeStay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The Lived Experiences ________________________________Stay Connected: Zoey Michaels 🌐 Website: www.zoeymichaels.com📱 Instagram: zoeymichaelsbooks👥 Facebook: Zoey MichaelsMusic from #Uppbeat:https://uppbeat.io/t/night-drift/reflectionLicense code: 6MLBDGURNSC8XOAK

    36 min
  6. "Beyond Sight Loss Dr. Powell's Path to Purpose and Advocacy-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    10/08/2025

    "Beyond Sight Loss Dr. Powell's Path to Purpose and Advocacy-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Charles W. Powell II, whose story redefines what it means to overcome adversity and create purpose from painful experiences. Thirteen years ago, Dr. Powell experienced sight loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, which initially led him into nine months of devastating depression and hopelessness. But through faith, family support, and unwavering determination, he transformed his greatest challenge into his most powerful testimony.🔍 In our conversation, we explore:• Dr. Powell's initial struggle with sight loss and depression• The turning point that pulled him from darkness to determination• His incredible journey earning multiple degrees, including a Doctorate in Business Administration• Overcoming employment barriers and creating Divine Visions Enterprise• Building a successful legal and business consulting company• Founding the Blind but Not Broken Movement• Advocacy work amplifying voices in the blind community• How faith and family support shaped his resilience• Practical advice for anyone facing life-altering challengesDr. Powell's message that "nothing is impossible with faith and determination" comes from lived experience. His journey from despair to doctorate, from isolation to advocacy, proves that our responses to adversity can become our greatest sources of strength and service to others. Chapters 00:00 Overcoming Adversity: Dr. Powell's Journey 02:19 The Moment of Blindness: A Life-Changing Event 04:45 Coping Mechanisms: The Struggle with Alcohol 08:43 Catalyst for Change: A Daughter's Love 10:48 Support Systems: The Role of Family 12:47 Returning to Education: A New Path Forward 17:42 Breaking Barriers: Employment Challenges and Triumphs 22:41 The Journey Begins: From Inspiration to Entrepreneurship 24:32 Navigating Challenges: Balancing Work, School, and Business 26:26 Transformation and Growth: From Consultant to Enterprise 27:32 Overcoming Perceptions: The Impact of Visual Impairment 32:05 Advocacy and Empowerment: Blind But Not Broken Movement 36:27 Messages of Hope: Believing in Yourself and Your Vision Stay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The Lived Experiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: Charles W. Powell II 🌐 Website: www.divinevisionsenterprise.com 📚 Resources: www.blindpro.org www.bpnworkplacesolutions.org Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/yawnathan/gemsLicense code: IXRJTXHY6ANWWNYC

    43 min
  7. Both Sides of Recovery-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    09/10/2025

    Both Sides of Recovery-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The LivedExperience Podcast, I met with Joshua Pair for a raw, honest conversation about breaking free from generational patterns of abuse and addiction that have plagued families for generations. Joshua courageously opens up about his own childhoodexperiences growing up in chaos - surrounded by domestic violence and substance abuse that seemed inescapable. But his story doesn't end there. Through his journey to recovery and his work as a licensed clinical dependency counselor,Joshua has dedicated his life to helping others break these destructive cycles. 🔍 What We Explore: ✨ Key Takeaways: This episode is essential listening for anyone who hasexperienced family trauma, is working in recovery, or wants to understand the complex journey of breaking generational cycles. Joshua's story proves that with resilience, support, and determination, it's possible to transform pain into purpose.   Chapters: 0:00: Introduction and GuestIntroduction 1:31: Joshua's Early Life andChallenges 8:01: Journey to Sobriety 16:01: Breaking GenerationalCycles 24:01: Founding a CounselingPractice 32:01: Innovations in AddictionRecovery 38:01: Closing and ContactInformation   Stay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website: www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram:thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The LivedExperiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: Joshua Pair, M.Ed.,LCDC 🌐 Website: www.addictionrecoverysolutions.org ▶️ YouTube: addictionrecoverysolutionspllc   Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/danijel-zambo/lazy-days License code: CBT34DPB3Q8DAP5A

    42 min
  8. Mothering in the Dark-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    08/27/2025

    Mothering in the Dark-The Lived Experiences Podcast

    In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with ShawntiRefuge, founder of Mothering in the Dark, a support group that addresses one of the most painful and often silenced experiences in family life - estrangement from our children. Shawnti courageously shares her unique perspective, havingexperienced estrangement from both sides of the relationship. 🔍 In our conversation,we explore: What makes Shawnti's work so vital is her understanding that healing doesn't always mean reconciliation, and that mothers experiencing estrangement deserve support, community, and freedom from shame. Her approachthrough Mothering in the Dark creates space for the conversations most people are afraid to have. This episode is for anyone who has experienced familyestrangement, knows someone going through this journey, or wants to better understand this often misunderstood form of grief. #TheLivedExperiencesPodcast #ShawntiRefuge#MotheringInTheDark #FamilyEstrangement #Grief #Healing #CommunitySupport#PodcastInterview #NewEpisode   Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Estrangement: A Personal Journey 08:03 The Unique Grief of Living Estrangement 09:42 Breaking Generational Patterns of Disconnection 10:39 Creating Safe Spaces: Mothering in the Dark 14:40 The Importance of Accountability and Healing 15:07 The Journey of Reconciliation and Healing 17:12 The Power of Journaling in Healing 19:09 Facing Old Wounds and Seeking Support 21:25 Navigating the Honeymoon Phase in Relationships 24:48 Finding Purpose and Community Support Stay Connected: Dr. Tamea Ryan 🌐 Website:www.thelivedexp.com 📱 Instagram: thelivedexp 👥 Facebook: The LivedExperiences ________________________________ Stay Connected: Shawnti Refuge 🌐 Website: www.shawntirefuge.com 📱 Instagram: @shawntirefugejournals 👥 Facebook: ShawntiRefuge Journals   Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/prigida/side-stepping License code: V4XK4HBF8USZVOVH

    33 min
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About

Welcome to The Lived Experiences podcast. My name is Dr. Tamea Ryan. On this podcast, I dive deep into the inspiring journeys of individuals on a path toward self-improvement, self-care, and resiliency. Join me as I explore the challenges faced, the strategies employed, and the victories celebrated along the way. Get ready to be motivated, uplifted, and empowered as stories of growth, healing, and transformation unfold.

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