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What does it truly mean to live with chronic illness? Join us as we explore this profound question with Alyssa Mortel, author of "Invisible Warriors." At 23, Alyssa was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a condition that nearly broke her spirit but ultimately fueled her journey of resilience and hope. Discover how she transformed her personal struggles into a mission to foster empathy and understanding for those battling invisible illnesses.

On today's episode of "Retreat to Peace," Alyssa shares her heartfelt story and the motivations behind her book, which aims to demystify chronic illness for those who haven't experienced it. We discuss the spoon theory, a powerful metaphor for energy and fatigue, and the challenges Alyssa faced in helping her father understand her condition. Highlighting themes of self-worth and overcoming isolation, Alyssa's journey is a testament to the power of joy and academic pursuit even in the darkest of times.

We also delve into the emotional and psychological toll of chronic illness, especially in the context of COVID-19. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of mental health, the gut-brain connection, and the impact of social media on our well-being. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking the cycle of isolation, embracing compassion, and living authentically despite life's challenges. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of chronic illness and the strength of the human spirit.

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Imagine losing your parents at the age of nine and finding solace in the warmth of a godly family's embrace. Betty Simon's journey from a small Ugandan village to the United States is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. With the support of the Good Samaritan Ministries and a compassionate sponsor couple, Betty's life was transformed from being an orphan to becoming a beacon of hope. This episode of Retreat to Peace captures Betty's remarkable story, filled with heartfelt memories of her village, the profound impact of her sponsors, and her mission to spread healing and resilience.

From the close-knit communal spirit of her village to the bustling life in Kampala, Betty's experiences are a blend of challenges and triumphs. She shares vivid descriptions of her childhood, marked by traditional foods, daily activities, and the resilience that defined her upbringing. Her journey through loss, the emotional hurdles of being an orphan, and the unwavering faith that carried her through it all are deeply moving. Betty's transition from village life to the capital city brings forth reflections on adaptability, gratitude, and the unshakeable support of a loving family and community.

Betty's adventure continues across continents, as she navigates between Uganda and the United States for education and eventually settles down, inspired by a profound spiritual calling. This episode highlights her endeavors, including her YouTube channel "God's Word for Us by Betty" and her upcoming book that aims to inspire hope through her personal experiences. Betty's heartfelt message encourages listeners to extend compassion and support to those in need, underscoring the transformative impact of kindness. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with words of encouragement, hope, and a powerful reminder to hold on to faith, no matter the challenges life presents.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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The holiday season often wraps us in a quilt of contrasting emotions, which I know all too well. My own festive recollections are tinged with shades of past hardships; yet, they've led me to appreciate the nuanced beauty of this time of year. Join me as we traverse the landscape of traditions and the search for meaning amidst the twinkling lights and chill in the air. In a year like 2020, when the world turned inward, we find ourselves grappling with our perceptions of celebration and reflection. Together, we'll uncover the treasures hidden in life's simple moments and how they can illuminate even the darkest of winters.

Then, let's warm our hearts with stories of kindness that echo through the frosty air, like the one about a family whose Christmas was reborn through an act of unexpected generosity. No guests are needed when the narrative is rich with personal tales of compassion, from sending holiday greetings to soldiers healing from wounds of war to honoring those who've served with solemn wreaths. It's a discussion that goes beyond the festive façade, urging us to craft our own meaningful traditions and kindle the flame of togetherness. So wrap up in your favorite blanket, sip some hot cocoa, and let's revel in the joy of creating special memories that resonate with the spirit of the season.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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Have you ever met someone whose life seemed to be a beacon, guiding others to their true north? Meet Roz Clark, our vibrant guest and dream doula, who has dedicated herself to awakening the sleeping giants within women, helping them birth their dreams into reality. Roz's journey is an odyssey from singing in the streets of Paris on her 21st birthday, through the valleys of motherhood with a special needs child, to rising as a champion for authenticity. Her story isn't just about personal triumph; it's a masterclass on transcending the ordinary, a life painted with the bold strokes of passion and purpose.

Our conversation with Roz takes us through the delicate terrain of human relationships, unraveling the often invisible threads that bind us to the role of rescuer. From vivid childhood memories of sheltering a disadvantaged friend to navigating a stormy marriage, Roz's reflections serve as a mirror for many of us. But it's the metamorphosis from protector to empowered guide that truly defines her tale. As Roz opens up about transforming her life's greatest challenges into a beacon for others, you might just find the keys to unlock your own patterns and step into a life of service that uplifts rather than burdens.

The crescendo of our time with Roz is a heart-to-heart on the essence of personal freedom and inner peace. How often do we wear the mask of success, chasing external validations at the cost of our true selves? Roz's candid recount of her own epiphanies in this realm acts as a gentle yet firm invitation to embrace the stillness, listen to our inner wisdom, and honor our greatest potential. Join us as we explore these profound insights, and you may discover that the greatest journey you'll ever embark on is the one that leads you back to your authentic self.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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When life throws curveballs, how does one hold their family together with grace and resilience? This is the very fabric of our latest conversation with Jackie Dighans, a mother to an incredible brood of ten and a guiding light as a covenant life coach. Together, we traverse her personal odyssey from the intimate space of homeschooling to the broader stages of public education, unearthing the indispensable role of spirituality in shaping a cohesive and loving family dynamic.

Navigating the intricacies of growth and identity, our dialogue delves into the art of intentional parenting, striking a balance between guidance and autonomy as our children wade through their formative years. We lay bare the poignant struggles and victories that come with fostering open communication, sharing life's wisdom, and making informed choices. It's a shared journey, both humbling and enriching, that underscores the evolution of self-awareness and the courage to admit that as parents, we too are students of life's unpredictable curriculum.

The episode culminates with a stirring reflection on the metamorphosis wrought by life's trials. We delve into personal stories of tribulation, discussing how these moments of despair can be alchemized into joyous triumphs of faith and gratitude. Join us as we chart a path through the complexities of modern life, embracing growth and a positive perspective that transforms every challenge into a stepping stone towards a more fulfilled existence. Jackie and I invite you to witness the everyday miracles that reaffirm our belief in a purpose-driven life, brimming with love and possibility.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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When my Canadian comrade Scott Manduck sits down to chat, it's not just about catching up — it's a deep dive into transforming one's life and health in the face of adversity. Scott's tale begins in the unexpected waters of holistic health when his wife's medical odyssey, sprawling from shoulder discomfort to crippling nerve pain, demanded a drastic course correction from traditional treatments to alternative avenues. This episode unfolds the narrative of a family's unwavering quest for wellness, intertwined with their discovery of the integral role dental health plays in our systemic well-being. Scott's story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the necessity for each of us to become lifelong learners in the quest for health.

The journey into the realm of self-care doesn't stop at the gums. As I recount with a dose of healthy skepticism, the promise of frequency-infused products beckoned, challenging my preconceptions with undeniable results. We probe the science of vibrational frequencies and Schumann resonance, revealing the profound influence these natural forces can have on our physical state. The conversation also ventures into the great outdoors, considering the healing embrace of nature versus the stifling embrace of urban living, and the pervasive, unseen hazards of electromagnetic fields from our ubiquitous electronic devices.

But it's not all about what ails us — this chat with Scott is also a celebration of natural remedies and proactive lifestyle shifts. Imagine swapping out your chemical-laden cleaning arsenal for the simple, yet potent, blend of vinegar and essential oils, unlocking not only a clean home but also an uplifted mood and a safer environment for your loved ones. This episode encapsulates the essence of a family's commitment to a healthier, more harmonious life, and it may just inspire you to rethink the ingredients, both tangible and intangible, that make up your own day-to-day existence. Join us for a conversation that's sure to plant the seeds of curiosity and growth in your own journey towards natural wellness.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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When your body wages a war against itself, where do you turn for peace? Kounthea Richards bravely steps into our space, sharing not just her strife with lupus but also the emotional landscape of generational trauma. Her narrative isn't just a chronicle of pain, but a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of the mind-body connection. As Kounthea recounts her journey through the darkest valleys of her illness, she sheds light on the emotional and mental roots of autoimmune diseases and how self-reflection, lifestyle changes, and the influential work of Dr. Joe Dispenza helped her to emerge stronger, healthier, and more optimistic than ever before.

Healing isn't a sprint; it's a marathon with hurdles of inherited emotional legacies and personal triggers. This episode is a profound exploration of that healing path, as Kounthea opens up about the guilt and shame tied to family struggles and how these burdens took form as lupus, particularly during the stress of pregnancy. She emphasizes the importance of pausing, listening to our bodies, and understanding the narratives we carry. In doing so, she invites us to join her in reverse engineering our thinking to address issues at their core, fostering a move from a victim mentality to one of self-advocacy and empowerment.

This conversation is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the strength found in supportive communities. Kounthea's commitment to creating a nurturing environment for her child, the incremental lifestyle changes that pave the way for better health, and the shared significance of parental figures in our lives, all converge to paint a picture of a journey towards healing. As we wrap up with a reminder to live authentically and embrace peace, we also set the stage for our next session with Paul Foreshine, aimed at enriching your mindset and guiding you towards an authentic life. Join us and carry with you the spirit of peace, as we continue to unravel the stories that shape our well-being.

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Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.

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When the world seems to spin into chaos, where do we find the strength to confront the pain within us? Join me as trauma recovery coach Deanne Smith shares her profound insights on navigating the stormy seas of personal and collective trauma. Together, we dissect how these deep wounds impact our rationality and emotional well-being, and why it's crucial to not only advocate for peace but also to engage in the hard work of healing. Deanne draws from her own life story, inviting us into the vulnerability and resilience required to mend the scars left by our past.

Life's darkest moments can feel insurmountable, and sometimes, we find ourselves reaching for anything that might offer a fleeting escape. This episode illuminates the lesser-seen coping strategies, from the clutches of addiction to the false sanctuary of gambling, that many grasp at in hopes of relief. But it's within these narratives of struggle where we unearth the turning point—the courage to choose life, to walk towards recovery, and to begin crafting a life worth cherishing. Deanne's own leap from the brink serves as a powerful testament to the transformative decisions we're all capable of making.

Healing isn't a solo journey—it's a tapestry woven with threads of faith, personal accountability, and the sharing of our most intimate tales. We discuss how embracing a connection to a higher power can guide us through life's harshest trials and the remarkable health transformations that can occur when we listen to our intuition and turn towards alternative healing practices. By the end of our conversation, it's clear that sharing our stories isn't just cathartic for us—it has the potential to light the way for others, encouraging them to find solace and strength in their own paths to peace.

Support the show

Please visit us at: http://retreattopeace.com to find out more about the shows you love to listen to, the upcoming retreats we have planned and your favorite merchandise to help support those in need. Also, send us your testimonial of how the show or Catherine has helped you. We would love to share your story on the air.