Living Louder

Portia Louder
  • 4.7 (37)
  • Personal Journals
  • Updated Weekly

Portia spent four and a half years of her life in federal prison and her life was transformed. This is an account of kindness, faith and enduring friendships discovered in federal prison. Her story is told with the passion and insight of one who lived it. Portia opens our eyes and hearts to the real challenges and struggles that people in prison face.

  1. 1d ago

    Richard The Great! A Childhood Dream Comes True

    https://richardpaulevans.com/ In this heartfelt conversation, bestselling author Richard Paul Evans joins Portia Louder for an honest discussion about loss, faith, family, resilience, and finding purpose after life takes an unexpected turn. Portia shares how she discovered Evans’s book The 5 Lessons years ago—and how one principle, making a decision, helped shape the choices that carried her through addiction, prison, and rebuilding her life. She also explains why Evans’s The Walk series has become so meaningful to people in prison, including the reading groups who discuss the books and find hope in their pages. Evans reflects on his own difficult experiences: growing up in poverty after his family lost financial stability, facing fear and uncertainty as a child, and later confronting the near-collapse of a business he had built. He describes the personal crisis that helped inspire The Walk—a story about losing nearly everything and asking what makes life worth continuing. Together, Portia and Richard explore how painful experiences can challenge our identities, reveal what matters most, and help us grow. The conversation also offers a glimpse into Evans’s writing process and the value of authenticity. He shares how his childhood inspired A Christmas Memory, why he learned to write for one reader rather than chase bestseller status, and how curiosity—and even AI research tools—helped him bring his upcoming historical novel, Mercy’s Child, to life. The book tells the story of Etta Wheeler’s efforts to rescue Mary Ellen Wilson, a child whose case helped change the way society viewed children’s rights. Evans also talks about the Christmas Box House, an organization he helped create to support children experiencing abuse and neglect. Over three decades, the work has supported thousands of children and families. He shares the setbacks that nearly ended the project, the moments that renewed his commitment, and why the mission remains so important. This episode is a moving reminder that a person’s hardest chapter does not have to be the end of their story. Whether you’re rebuilding after a setback, searching for a sense of purpose, or looking for a book that speaks to hope and second chances, Portia and Richard’s conversation offers encouragement to keep going—and to consider who you are becoming along the way. Learn more about the Christmas Box House at thechristmasbox.org. #RichardPaulEvans #PortiaLouder #LivingLouderPodcast #TheWalkSeries #TheChristmasBox #Hope #Resilience #SecondChances #Faith #Recovery #PrisonReentry #PersonalGrowth #ChildWelfare #Writing #Inspiration

    Richard The Great! A Childhood Dream Comes True

  2. Oct 2

    Whatever it Takes! - with Sean Castleberry

    In this powerful episode of the Living Louder Podcast, Portia sits down with Sean Castlederry for an honest and inspiring conversation about addiction, abandonment, homelessness, incarceration, recovery, fatherhood, faith, and the possibility of starting over.Sean shares how growing up in Utah, experiencing his father’s absence, losing a beloved uncle to a heroin overdose, and struggling to fit in shaped many of the choices he made as a teenager and young adult. What began with partying and prescription drugs eventually progressed into selling substances, living in the fast life, homelessness, heroin addiction, repeated jail stays, and serious felony charges.He openly discusses the mindset that kept him trapped—including the belief that consequences did not matter, that jail could feel like a vacation, and that the street lifestyle itself became an addiction. Sean also talks about losing custody of his son, the pain his choices caused his family, and the moment his mother’s reaction to his prison sentence became a true turning point.Rather than viewing prison as the end of his story, Sean describes how it became the place where he began taking an honest look at himself. Through prayer, meditation, recovery, and difficult self-reflection, he started to understand that freedom could be found internally—even behind walls. After release, he chose to take the harder path: extended treatment, sober living, therapy, accountability, and learning to accept suggestions from others.Today, Sean is celebrating years of sobriety, a healthy marriage, fatherhood, meaningful work as an electrician, and renewed hope of rebuilding a relationship with his son. He shares how becoming a father to his daughter helped heal parts of him he did not know needed healing—and how recovery gave him the chance to become the role model he once needed.This conversation is about more than addiction. It is about identity, personal responsibility, tough love, forgiveness, spirituality, and the courage to keep moving forward when the future feels impossible. Sean’s message is clear: your past choices do not have to become your identity, and life can change when you begin taking the next right step.If you or someone you love is struggling, Sean encourages you to reach out, be honest, and ask for help. There is power in saying, “I can’t do this alone.”Please like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who may need hope today.Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, legal, or addiction-treatment advice. If you are in crisis or facing immediate danger, contact emergency services or a qualified crisis resource in your area.#LivingLouderPodcast #Recovery #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #SecondChances #PrisonReform #Reentry #OvercomingAddiction #RecoveryStory #ToughLove #Fatherhood #MentalHealth #FaithAndRecovery #Homelessness #CriminalJustice #PersonalGrowth #Healing #Hope #Redemption #RecoveryIsPossible

    Whatever it Takes! - with Sean Castleberry

  3. Sep 26

    Never Lost Alone - With Scott Hammond

    What does it take to rebuild your life after everything familiar has been taken away? In this heartfelt episode of Living Louder, Portia Louder sits down with author, professor, consultant, and search-and-rescue volunteer Dr. Scott Hammond for a meaningful conversation about resilience, hope, second chances, faith, and the courage to keep moving forward when life feels uncertain. Scott shares stories from a life shaped by change. Raised in different parts of the world, including Indonesia, France, Austria, and Utah, he learned early how to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds. He also opens up about his academic journey, dyslexia, becoming a professor, and discovering that curiosity—not perfection—is often what leads us toward growth. A major focus of the conversation is Scott’s experience in search and rescue. Through his work with trained search dogs, Scott has witnessed people facing some of the darkest and most frightening moments of their lives. These experiences inspired his books and helped him recognize a powerful connection between being lost in the wilderness and feeling lost in life. Scott explains why “you’re never lost alone.” Even when someone feels forgotten, overwhelmed, or disconnected, there are often people willing to search, support, encourage, and believe in them. One unforgettable story involves hundreds of strangers coming together to find a teenage boy who had disappeared in the wilderness—and cheering when he was finally brought home. Portia also shares deeply personal reflections from her own experience in prison, her journey home, and the process of rebuilding her identity from the inside out. She discusses learning to define herself by her values, choosing honesty, embracing curiosity, forgiving herself, and discovering that her most important work could begin after her life had been completely changed. Together, Portia and Scott explore the importance of hope, the healing power of storytelling, the impact of compassionate support, and why people are more than their worst decisions or most difficult chapters. They discuss how families can support incarcerated loved ones, why society should cheer people on as they work to change, and how one person’s belief can make a lasting difference. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt lost, struggled to begin again, carried shame, supported someone in crisis, or wondered whether change is still possible. It is a reminder that our past does not have to define our future—and that sometimes, the path forward begins with simply taking the next step. Listen, reflect, and share this episode with someone who needs a little hope today. Subscribe to Living Louder for more honest conversations, inspiring stories, and powerful reminders that every life has meaning, every person has value, and no one has to find their way alone. #LivingLouder #ScottHammond #PortiaLouder #Resilience #Hope #SecondChances #PrisonReentry #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthAwareness #SearchAndRescue #LifeAfterPrison #Inspiration #Faith #Healing #Forgiveness #OvercomingAdversity #HumanConnection #Recovery #Motivation #YouAreNeverLostAlone

    Never Lost Alone - With Scott Hammond

  4. Sep 18

    Can Cookies & Soda Really Become a Cake? Prison Cake Challenge

    Welcome to the Living Louder Podcast with Portia Louder! In this episode, Portia shares the story behind her famous prison cake—a simple, creative dessert made from commissary items that became a meaningful way to connect with others during her seven-year federal prison sentence. Using cookies, pudding, milk, soda, and chocolate candies, Portia demonstrates how to make the cake step by step, including the small techniques that helped her perfect the recipe after making it nearly 100 times in prison. She explains why the type of bowl, cooking time, ingredients, and even the number of chocolate candies can make a difference. She also shows how to create a simple chocolate frosting and shares tips for cooling, flipping, slicing, and serving the finished cake. As she cooks, Portia reflects on her life before prison, her conviction for real estate fraud, and the painful lessons that came from her choices. She discusses how cooking became an important part of prison culture—bringing people together, creating community, and offering comfort in a difficult environment. From prison pizzas and tortilla chips to slushies, sushi, and chicken tortilla soup, Portia highlights the resourcefulness and creativity of the women she met. This episode also explores the humanity often overlooked in stories about incarceration. Portia talks about the friendships, acts of kindness, education, music, sunsets, and everyday moments that changed her perspective. She shares how volunteering in GED classes, teaching photography, helping women write resumes, and leading an “Explaining Your Conviction” class gave her a renewed sense of purpose. Portia’s goal is to share a more complete and human picture of prison life—one that goes beyond stereotypes and television portrayals. Her experiences were painful, but they also led to personal growth, meaningful relationships, and a new mission to help others feel less alone. Whether you are curious about prison cooking, interested in second chances, or simply looking for a fun and unusual dessert recipe, this episode offers a mix of storytelling, reflection, and practical instruction. Try making the prison cake with your family or friends and let Portia know how it turns out! Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share your thoughts. Have you ever made a recipe using limited ingredients? What prison-inspired recipe should Portia feature next? #LivingLouder #PortiaLouder #PrisonCake #PrisonCooking #PrisonStories #LifeAfterPrison #SecondChances #PersonalGrowth #IncarcerationStories #HumanizingPrison #CookingPodcast #DessertRecipe #EasyDessert #NoBakeInspiration #MicrowaveCake #CommissaryCooking #PrisonLife #FoodAndCommunity #Redemption #Storytelling #Podcast #YouTubePodcast #RealLifeStories #HopeAndHealing #CreativeCooking

    Can Cookies & Soda Really Become a Cake? Prison Cake Challenge

  5. Sep 11

    Andy’s Story from Hopeless to Hero

    Welcome to the Living Louder Podcast, where powerful stories, honest reflections, and life-changing insights come together to inspire you to live with purpose, authenticity, and resilience. In this episode, we sit down with Andy Torgersen, a man who has traveled an incredible journey from addiction and anxiety to self-discovery and personal transformation. His story is a testament to the power of inner rewiring, the importance of living true to yourself, and the incredible freedom that comes from embracing your authentic self. Andy openly shares his struggles growing up in Utah, dealing with a heart condition, childhood anxiety, and the internal battles that shaped his early years. Despite having loving and supportive parents, Andy felt isolated and insecure, turning to sports as a source of validation and self-esteem. His obsession with baseball and external achievements became his way of coping, but underneath it all, he wrestled with deep feelings of inadequacy and fear. His journey into substance use started later in life, initially social, but eventually spiraling into a destructive cycle fueled by anxiety, unresolved trauma, and a desire to numb the pain. Throughout the conversation, Andy reflects on pivotal moments—his first experiences with alcohol, the chaos of relationships, and the rock-bottom moments that finally pushed him to seek help. His story is raw and real, highlighting the importance of inner work, community support, and the mindset shift necessary for lasting recovery. Andy emphasizes that true self-esteem comes from within and that each moment offers an opportunity to rewire negative beliefs and step into the best version of yourself. What makes Andy’s story so compelling is his unwavering commitment to growth and authenticity. He talks about how he consciously chose to redefine his identity—no longer labeling himself as an alcoholic, but as someone in recovery. His journey is ongoing, filled with ups and downs, but his focus remains on showing up fully, living intentionally, and spreading hope to others facing similar struggles. His message is clear: no matter how dark your past may be, there is always a path forward, and it begins with self-love, curiosity, and the willingness to be vulnerable. Whether you're in recovery, battling anxiety, or simply seeking inspiration to live louder and more authentically, this episode offers valuable insights and practical wisdom. Andy’s story reminds us that we all have the power to rewrite our narrative, tap into our passions, and create a life filled with joy, purpose, and freedom. Tune in, be inspired, and remember—your best self is just one honest moment away. Let Andy’s journey be a beacon of hope and a reminder that no matter where you’ve been, you can always choose to live louder. #LivingLouder #RecoveryJourney #SelfGrowth #InnerTransformation #AuthenticLiving #MentalHealthMatters #AddictionRecovery #PurposeDriven #SelfLove #Inspiration

    Andy’s Story from Hopeless to Hero

  6. Aug 21

    Surviving a Family Tragedy and Finding Hope in Recovery

    Welcome to the Living Louder Podcast, where raw honesty, resilience, and hope take center stage. In this powerful episode, we sit down with James Spillet—a young man whose life has been shaped by unimaginable tragedy, addiction, and ultimately, profound transformation. James’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of redemption, even after experiencing the darkest moments. James opens up about his tumultuous childhood growing up in Utah, navigating a fractured family environment marked by addiction, emotional abuse, and the absence of a consistent father figure. From an early age, he was exposed to substances like huffing gasoline, marijuana, psychedelics, and prescription pills, which set him on a path of substance abuse that would span over a decade. His journey includes dealing drugs as a young teen, battling psychosis, and living through the devastating loss of his entire family—his father, two siblings, and stepbrother—who all tragically died in a family murder-suicide. James’s account of that night is both heartbreaking and inspiring, revealing how he managed to survive and find a way forward despite overwhelming grief. Throughout the episode, James shares the struggles of addiction, the cycles of relapse, and the relentless pursuit of sobriety. He talks candidly about the ups and downs of his recovery journey—from multiple treatment centers, jail time, and solitary confinement, to finally embracing a life of honesty, faith, and self-improvement. His story highlights the importance of accountability, community support, and the power of persistence in overcoming addiction. More than just a story of hardship, this conversation delves into themes of hope, healing, and the importance of seeking help. James emphasizes that no matter how bleak life may seem, there is always light on the other side of darkness. He encourages others who are struggling to reach out, ask for help, and believe in the possibility of living a fulfilling, meaningful life beyond addiction and trauma. This episode is a reminder that resilience is born from adversity, and that even in our lowest moments, we can find the strength to rebuild. Whether you’re battling addiction, facing family trauma, or simply seeking inspiration, James’s story offers hope and a call to action: you are not alone, and your story is still being written. Join us in listening to a story of heartbreak, hope, and healing. Be inspired by James’s journey of transformation and learn how he is now helping others find their way out of the darkness. #LivingLouderPodcast #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStory #FamilyTrauma #OvercomingTrauma #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #HopeInRecovery #Inspiration #SecondChances #Resilience #HealingJourney #UtahStories #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaRecovery #NeverGiveUp

    Surviving a Family Tragedy and Finding Hope in Recovery

  7. Aug 14

    Growing Up Normal: A Family Legacy of Photography and Faith

    www.reflectedpixel.com Chicken Man: https://l1nk.dev/w2e60d1 Welcome to the Living Louder podcast, where we believe that every story has the power to inspire, heal, and transform lives. In this episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journeys of ordinary people—stories of resilience, faith, love, and redemption that will touch your heart and challenge your perspective. Join us as we sit down with Jon Adams, a man whose life has been profoundly shaped by his family’s legacy in photography, faith, and service. From growing up in a close-knit, hardworking family in Utah to building his own life around the values of kindness, perseverance, and continuous learning, Jon shares insights about his childhood, his parents’ influence, and the lessons he learned from a life of service. A significant part of our conversation revolves around the powerful lessons Jon learned from his parents and grandparents—particularly his grandfather, known as the legendary “Chicken Man,” who traveled from town to town capturing family memories with a camera that weighed more than most of us can lift! Jon recounts stories about his family’s work ethic, their faith, and how they prioritized relationships and service above all. These stories reveal the importance of loving others, making time for family, and investing in what truly matters. But this episode goes beyond just family stories. We explore the incredible impact of service, especially in difficult circumstances. Portia shares her own profound experience of working in prisons, teaching about love and connection, and how genuine care can bring about miracles—like calming tense situations and even preventing violence. Her stories will inspire you to see the strength in vulnerability, the heroism in overcoming trauma, and the importance of extending kindness even in the most challenging environments. We also discuss the importance of mental health, overcoming shame, and breaking societal stereotypes about those who have faced adversity, including incarceration. Both Portia and Jon emphasize that everyone is fighting battles unseen, and that compassion can change lives—sometimes in ways we least expect. Whether you're interested in family legacy, faith, service, or personal growth, this episode offers meaningful insights and practical wisdom. It’s a reminder that our past, no matter how difficult, can shape us into stronger, more compassionate individuals. And that through love, service, and understanding, we can all make a difference—one act of kindness at a time. Tune in for inspiring stories, heartfelt reflections, and a call to live louder—more intentionally, more compassionately, and more connected to those around us. #LivingLouder #Inspiration #RedemptionStory #FamilyLegacy #FaithAndService #OvercomingTrauma #RealStories #MentalHealthMatters #KindnessWins #MiraclesInPrison #PersonalGrowth #LoveAndService #BreakingStereotypes #Resilience #Hope #LifeLessons

    Growing Up Normal: A Family Legacy of Photography and Faith

  8. Jul 31

    Prison and Rebirth - Betsy Gallegos

    Welcome to the Living Louder Podcast, where real stories of struggle, hope, and transformation come to life. In this episode, we sit down with Betsy Gallegos—a woman who has lived through the depths of addiction, incarceration, heartbreak, and ultimately, redemption. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the guiding hand of faith, and the transformative power of hope. Betsy’s story begins in the beautiful islands of Hawaii and Tonga, where her cultural roots and early life shaped her worldview. Growing up in a strong LDS family, she describes her teenage years as joyful and full of faith—until the shadows of addiction crept in during her mid-20s. From her first drug experience at 24 to the devastating loss of her unborn child, Betsy’s life took a dark turn that led her into years of relapse, street life, and dangerous situations. Her tale is filled with raw honesty about the struggles of addiction and the feelings of hopelessness that often accompany it. But her story doesn’t end there. After a series of arrests—including kidnapping charges and federal gun charges—Betsy found herself in county jail and eventually federal prison. Her first days behind bars were surreal, filled with spiritual experiences and moments of divine intervention that reminded her she was not alone. From meeting fellow inmates with incredible stories to moments of clarity during LDS services, Betsy’s faith was reignited in the most unexpected places. Through hard work, faith, and a relentless desire to change, Betsy turned her life around. She completed treatment programs, went back to school, and now works in recovery and support services, helping others who are battling similar struggles. Her journey of forgiveness, healing, and rebuilding her relationships with her children is truly inspiring. Today, she is living proof that no matter how dark the night, the dawn of hope is always possible. Join us as Betsy shares her story in her own words—an unfiltered account of addiction, incarceration, faith, and love. This episode is full of encouragement for anyone feeling lost or overwhelmed, reminding us all that transformation is possible and that our pasts do not define our futures. Whether you’re on your own journey of recovery, seeking hope for a loved one, or simply looking for an inspiring story of resilience, this episode will leave you inspired, uplifted, and more hopeful than ever. #LivingLouderPodcast #TransformationJourney #AddictionRecovery #FaithAndHope #Inspiration #OvercomingIncarceration #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience #RebuildingLife #HopeAfterPrison #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #SecondChances #RecoverySupport #FaithInAction

    Prison and Rebirth - Betsy Gallegos
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4.7
out of 5
37 Ratings

About

Portia spent four and a half years of her life in federal prison and her life was transformed. This is an account of kindness, faith and enduring friendships discovered in federal prison. Her story is told with the passion and insight of one who lived it. Portia opens our eyes and hearts to the real challenges and struggles that people in prison face.

Information

  • Creator
    Portia Louder
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Portia Louder
  • Show Website
    Living Louder

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