Intrepid Storytelling

intrepidstorytelling

Intrepid Storytelling Podcast with Deanna Powell — Real Stories. Raw Truth. Unbreakable Spirit. The Intrepid Storytelling Podcast is a powerful, truth-driven space where host Deanna Powell dives deep into the human experience through real, unfiltered, and transformational stories. Each episode features courageous individuals who have faced adversity, trauma, resilience, healing, reinvention, and personal breakthroughs. From survival and recovery to empowerment and purpose, this podcast uncovers the lessons, wisdom, and inspiration hidden within life’s most challenging chapters. Whether it’s overcoming abuse, battling illness, rebuilding after loss, or finding your voice after silence, these stories remind us of the strength we all carry. Perfect for listeners who crave authentic storytelling, personal growth, healing journeys, resilience narratives, and inspiring conversations that spark hope and change. Join Deanna each week as she amplifies voices that deserve to be heard and celebrates the bold, brave, and intrepid spirit within us all.

  1. 3d ago

    62|My Narcissistic Husband Abused My Daughter: Nancy Kohne's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Nancy Kohne to explore narcissistic abuse, surviving childhood trauma, and protecting your family from a predator.   Nancy Kohne grew up acting as the peacemaker in a volatile, alcoholic household, which conditioned her to ignore red flags and try to save broken men. This vulnerability made her the perfect target for a manipulative narcissist who infiltrated her life and isolated her under the guise of being the ideal partner. Her harrowing reality unraveled when her teenage daughter revealed a decade of hidden abuse at the hands of Nancy's husband. Escaping the marriage and fighting a flawed legal system, Nancy ultimately reclaimed her voice by writing her memoir, "Shut Up and Smile," turning her family's devastating trauma into a story of resilience and survival.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling 01:00 Nancy Coney's Journey of Resilience 02:44 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics 08:12 Transitioning into Adulthood and Motherhood 10:37 Becoming a Single Mother 15:05 Navigating New Relationships 20:51 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships 24:06 The Impact on Children and Family Dynamics 27:14 The Nightmare Unfolds 30:57 Facing the Truth 34:44 The Aftermath of Abuse 39:43 Finding Strength in Adversity 46:48 Writing for Healing 50:47 A Message of Resilience   Connect with Nancy: Website: https://www.shutupandsmile.com/   Buy the book: Shut Up And Smile: https://amzn.to/4pj6GJQ   Listen to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-and-smile/id1714190108 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3K09WnWTolz07LI8nOSjpC?si=8dd3f9d0ac4d416f   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #NancyKohne #NarcissisticAbuse #SurvivingTrauma #ProtectingChildren #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  2. Aug 5

    61|I Befriended A Serial Killer And Didn't Know It: Ginine Emily Smith's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ginine Emily Smith to explore surviving extreme trauma, escaping a serial killer, and the raw reality of living a double life.   Ginine Emily Smith lived a profoundly fragmented life, projecting corporate success and musical talent on the outside while secretly battling crippling grief, cocaine addiction, and systemic abuse. Following the sudden and tragic death of her father, Smith was thrust into a desperate survival mode that eventually placed her in the direct crosshairs of an active serial killer. By confronting her darkest realities and experiencing a profound near-death encounter where she flatlined, she ultimately learned to integrate her fractured identities and step out of the shadows. Now, she uses the harrowing truth of her past to empower other women to leave toxic environments and reclaim their voices without shame.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling 02:46 The Power of Sharing Stories 05:56 Janine's Early Life and Family Dynamics 09:11 The Impact of Loss and Grief 12:02 Living in Survival Mode 14:56 A Life-Changing Encounter 18:13 Finding Faith and Recovery 21:06 The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery 23:50 The Ripple Effect of Gratitude 27:03 The Importance of Vulnerability in Storytelling 29:54 Integration and Transformation 34:08 The Power of Storytelling 39:54 Embracing Authenticity and Connection 47:01 Women Supporting Women 53:30 Letting Go of Toxic Relationships 01:00:16 The Ripple Effect of Sharing Stories   Connect with Ginine: Be a Part of the Ripple Effect: https://go.heartsinsync.live/legacy   Listen to her podcast: Rise & Roar with the Badass Lioness: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-roar-with-the-badass-lioness/id1843974560   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #GinineEmilySmith #SurvivingTrauma #AddictionRecovery #HealingJourney #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  3. Aug 3

    60|The Terrifying Reality of Trauma Psychosis: Brittney Lorenz's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Brittney Lorenz to explore trauma-induced psychosis, surviving sexual assault, and the criminalization of mental illness.   Brittney Lorenz experienced a rapid descent into homelessness during the pandemic, culminating in multiple devastating physical and sexual assaults. The severe trauma triggered a months-long state of psychosis, leading to her wrongful arrest and incarceration rather than receiving medical care. While trapped in solitary confinement battling severe delusions, Brittney was forced to navigate a broken legal system completely unequipped to handle mental health crises. Today, she advocates for profound systemic reform, urging for mental health professionals to work alongside law enforcement to prevent further tragedies.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Intrepid Storytelling 01:20 Brittany's Journey Begins 04:52 Early Life and Military Experience 06:44 The Desire for Reform in Mental Health 07:10 The First Encounter with Violence 11:07 The Aftermath of Trauma 16:12 The Second Encounter and Its Impact 19:15 The Struggles with Mental Health in the System 26:37 Life in Jail and the Struggle for Sanity 28:16 Isolation and Trust Issues 30:54 The Power of the Mind 32:47 Reality vs. Delusion 35:21 Facing the Consequences 39:41 Advocating for Oneself 40:33 Mental Health Court Experience 43:19 Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom 46:14 The Need for Systemic Change 49:51 Personal Stories of Resilience 54:33 A Call for Compassion and Reform   Connect with Brittney: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittney.lorenz.2025   Support Brittney's Mission: Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Brittney-Lorenz-1   Buy the book: When Cops Try To Play Counselor: https://amzn.to/4aAeIrK   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #BrittneyLorenz #MentalHealthReform #TraumaSurvivor #PrisonReform #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  4. Jul 29

    59|The Dark Secret The LDS Church Hides: Ted Novak's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Ted Novak to explore leaving Mormonism, biblical contradictions, and finding life after religion.   Ted Novak spent over five decades as a devout member, Elder's Quorum president, and seminary teacher in the Mormon church, completely trusting the foundations of his faith. When undeniable historical evidence regarding the Book of Abraham and the church's deeply racist early doctrines surfaced, his worldview collapsed. Confronting the harsh reality of Joseph Smith's fabrications and later biblical contradictions, Ted navigated the painful process of deconstructing his lifelong beliefs. Ultimately, he found true freedom, a secular moral framework, and a profound health transformation outside the confines of organized religion.   Connect with Ted: Website: https://tedshealthclub.com/   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #TedNovak #ExMormon #Deconstruction #ReligiousTrauma #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  5. Jul 27

    58|What The Animal Testing Industry Hides From You: Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis' Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis to explore the Ridglan Farms beagle rescue, the harsh realities of animal testing, and standing against state suppression.   Alexandria Keating-Sofiakis channeled the survival spirit of her ancestors into a lifelong fight for the voiceless. Confronting the realities of testing facilities, she and fellow activists faced tear gas and rubber bullets while attempting to rescue beagles specifically bred for their docile nature. The conversation uncovers the systemic protection granted to the animal testing industry and the intense physical and legal hurdles activists endure. Despite witnessing immense suffering and facing aggressive opposition, Alexandria’s journey highlights the profound resilience required to demand justice for vulnerable creatures.   Connect with Alexandria: BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/keating-sofiakis.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandriakeatingsofiakis?igsh=cGR0Z3J1bng1b2pp YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexandriaKeating-Sofiakis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Pbsgj2D3F/ Website: https://www.alexandriasofiakis.com/   Get Involved: https://www.directactioneverywhere.com/   Buy Cruelty-Free: https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/list-of-cruelty-free-brands/ Buy Cruelty-Free on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aA6tvM   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #AlexandriaKeatingSofiakis #AnimalRights #BeagleRescue #AnimalTesting #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  6. Jul 22

    57|Surviving My Husband's Methamphetamine Psychosis: Allison Fine's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Allison Fine to explore surviving severe domestic violence, navigating methamphetamine-induced psychosis, and the systemic failures of mental health crisis intervention.   Allison Fine dedicated her life to community advocacy and social services, only to face an unimaginable test when her husband secretly spiraled into a methamphetamine-fueled psychotic break. During a desperate attempt to call emergency psychiatric services for help, Allison was brutally stabbed nine times by the man she loved while actively on the phone with crisis responders. Her harrowing fight to survive exposed the glaring inadequacies of emergency mental health interventions and the lack of immediate resources for families dealing with severe mental illness. Today, she navigates the lasting physical and emotional trauma of that near-fatal betrayal through unapologetic community activism and stand-up comedy.   Allison's Website: https://dot.cards/allirealfunnyaf   Follow Allison on her social media accounts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonfine2378 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allirealfunnyaf/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@allirealfunnyaf   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #AllisonFine #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #MentalHealthCrisis #TraumaHealing #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast

  7. Jul 20

    56|The Double Murder My Family Kept A Secret: Kevin P. Henry's Story

    In this full episode of the Intrepid Storytelling podcast, host Deanna Powell sits down with Kevin P. Henry to explore surviving childhood trauma, true crime family secrets, and systemic racism.   Kevin grew up believing a fabricated tragedy designed to shield him from the horrific truth that his half-siblings were murdered by their step-father, who set their house on fire to cover up the crime. Uncovering this dark family secret became the catalyst for his lifelong career confronting the most predatory behaviors of human nature, including human trafficking, severe child abuse, and financial devastation. This conversation rigorously examines the agonizing psychological toll of navigating society's ugliest realities, the dangerous ignorance fueled by living in isolated societal "bubbles," and the absolute necessity of forcing uncomfortable dialogues to dismantle generational bias.   Chapters: 00:00 The Impact of Childhood Trauma 09:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose 19:45 Navigating Conversations on Race and Inclusion 29:46 The Challenges of DEI Work and Humanity's Dark Side 31:39 Understanding Historical Context and Personal Triggers 34:18 The Evolution of Racial Terminology 37:29 The Importance of Identity and Cultural Understanding 39:31 Navigating Stereotypes and Lived Experiences 45:07 Debunking Misconceptions about DEI 49:17 Equity vs. Equality in Opportunities 53:01 The Value of Lived Experience in Hiring 56:09 The Role of Diversity in Community Engagement 01:00:19 Politics and Its Impact on Business and Community 01:04:03 Understanding DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 01:11:17 The Importance of Education in Addressing Racism 01:20:13 The Relevance of Black Lives Matter Today 01:28:44 Empowering the Next Generation for Change   Kevin's Podcast: https://allthewayauthentic.podbean.com/ Kevin's Website: https://kevinphenry.com/   Support Intrepid Storytelling: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling Submit Your Story: Email us at IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   Listen to the show on your favorite podcast platform: PodBean: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-fszhv-14b03c1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4C37HrHnzXKGDTQjCeWxOZ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intrepid-storytelling/id1855383579 iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/315837199 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0a99babd-2a33-4d25-8bc8-4ec909428e9e   #IntrepidStorytelling #KevinPHenry #ChildhoodTrauma #SystemicBias #TrueCrimeFamily #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #SWU #documentary

  8. Jul 15

    55|Surviving Cult Trauma and Protecting My Daughter from a Monster: Ruvyn Windsor’s Story

    How do you keep living when the person you trusted to co-parent your child turns out to be a monster hiding in plain sight?   Ruvyn grew up isolated in a strict Jehovah's Witness household in rural Idaho, surrounded by poverty and abusive stepfathers. Desperate for an escape, she moved out as a teenager, eventually having a daughter and trying to build a normal life. But when her daughter’s biological father proved increasingly negligent, forcing their child to live in squalor and hoard-like conditions, Ruvyn had to fight for sole custody while working three jobs.   Just as life seemed to be stabilizing, a single message shattered her world: her ex had been arrested and sentenced to 25 years in prison for unthinkable crimes against a vulnerable child. In this raw, heartbreaking, and fiercely inspiring episode of Intrepid Storytelling, Ruvyn opens up about surviving profound betrayal, battling severe depression and OCD, finding her voice on TikTok to fight for legal protection, and the relentless courage it takes to break cycles of trauma and protect your child at all costs.   Chapters: 00:00 The Journey of Hope and Transformation 02:46 Sharing Stories for Change 05:32 Growing Up in a Sheltered Environment 10:00 Understanding Relationships and Boundaries 12:52 Adolescence and the Quest for Independence 16:29 Navigating Early Parenthood 20:39 The Struggles of Co-Parenting 24:23 Seeking Stability and Support 29:03 Legal Battles and Custody Challenges 35:27 Finding a New Family Dynamic 38:16 Facing Betrayal and Heartbreak 41:50 Finding Inner Strength 44:41 Navigating Mental Health Challenges 52:36 The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health 58:16 Sharing My Story and Finding Community 01:03:06 Legal Battles and Personal Growth 01:10:12 Empowerment Through Storytelling   SUPPORT RUVYN: GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/53ca7034b FOLLOW RUVYN: IG: https://www.instagram.com/alchemy_with_rue/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alchemy_with_rue   Your support helps us keep telling meaningful stories. Donate here: https://buymeacoffee.com/intrepidstorytelling   🎧 Watch and listen on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Facebook | PodBean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music   Your story matters. If you’d like to share it with us, email IntrepidStorytelling@gmail.com   #IntrepidStorytelling #RuvynWindsor #SurvivorStory #TrueCrimePodcast #TraumaHealing #SingleMotherhood #PodcastYouTube #StorytellingPodcast #FacebookWatch

5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Intrepid Storytelling Podcast with Deanna Powell — Real Stories. Raw Truth. Unbreakable Spirit. The Intrepid Storytelling Podcast is a powerful, truth-driven space where host Deanna Powell dives deep into the human experience through real, unfiltered, and transformational stories. Each episode features courageous individuals who have faced adversity, trauma, resilience, healing, reinvention, and personal breakthroughs. From survival and recovery to empowerment and purpose, this podcast uncovers the lessons, wisdom, and inspiration hidden within life’s most challenging chapters. Whether it’s overcoming abuse, battling illness, rebuilding after loss, or finding your voice after silence, these stories remind us of the strength we all carry. Perfect for listeners who crave authentic storytelling, personal growth, healing journeys, resilience narratives, and inspiring conversations that spark hope and change. Join Deanna each week as she amplifies voices that deserve to be heard and celebrates the bold, brave, and intrepid spirit within us all.

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