Step into the incredible journey of Mika, a survivor who faced unimaginable trauma yet emerged with a message brimming with hope and resilience. Her story begins in a humble household, set against the backdrop of immigrant struggle and love. Micah shares how her upbringing instilled a sense of responsibility and a strong moral compass, shaping her into the empowered individual she is today.

But life took a dramatic turn when red flags in her relationship blurred her judgment. What began as a love story soon escalated into violence, leading to a harrowing day that would shatter her family. The loss of her father at the hands of her ex-boyfriend is an experience that changed the course of her life forever. Listen closely as Mika recounts the gripping details of that moment and the emotional turmoil that followed—grief, guilt, and the quest for healing.

Through this cathartic experience, Micah emphasizes forgiveness as pivotal to her recovery. Her newfound purpose is guiding her to create a non-profit to educate youth about emotional awareness and relationships. With determination and an unwavering spirit, Mika seeks to transform her painful history into advocacy, providing a voice for those affected by similar circumstances.

Join us for this heartfelt conversation, in which we encourage listeners to recognize relationship warning signs and prioritize healing and self-love. As you listen, reflect on your experiences and how we can all contribute to a supportive, understanding community.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you found inspiration in Mika's story!

Connect with Mika:

Personal Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/k.banks.1?igsh=MXA5cWZzMjRqMmYxdQ==

Business URL:

https://www.instagram.com/aladinsevents?igsh=enlkdzVwczM1eXcz

Ebook/Credit Services:

https://www.aladinluxuryenterprise.com/category/all-products

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

What happens when two people with the same rare genetic disorder fall in love? Chad and Allison's love story defies the challenges of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a condition that causes brittle bones.

Chad, born 20" long, overcame a grim doctor's prognosis, defying expectations with humor and determination. Growing up in Mississippi, he excelled in school and built a successful career as a government contractor.

Allison's OI journey included numerous hospital stays and challenges, but she remained independent and strong. When she met Chad through an OI support group, their connection was instant, and at their first meeting, Chad knew he had found the one he would marry.

Their relationship is built on shared experiences and mutual understanding, and together, they've created a life filled with love, laughter, and resilience. Chad's recent retirement and the upcoming release of his documentary, 96 Pounds of Dynamite, mark a new chapter in their journey.

Their story proves that true strength comes not from physical abilities but from the courage to live fully despite challenges. As Chad says, “There’s no magic way to get through life and OI... just faith, prayer, and laughter.”

Tune in to learn how two people with fragile bones built an unbreakable bond, and how their journey teaches resilience, love, and joy in unexpected places.

To watch the trailer: 96lbs of Dynamite: https://dynamite-film.com/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

Meet Nicole, a resilient mother who shares her harrowing birth trauma experience while giving birth in Germany only to discover she would be fighting for her son Owen’s survival.

Birth trauma is a deeply personal and often overlooked experience that can stem from medical complications, lack of support, or feeling powerless during childbirth. The emotional and physical impact can linger long after delivery, affecting mental health, relationships, and even future pregnancies. Healing from birth trauma requires compassionate care, safe spaces to share, and the recognition that every birth story deserves to be heard and validated.

Nicole and her husband boarded a military C-17 with their newborn son, Owen, for a high-risk medical transfer to the U.S. Just seven days postpartum, Nicole found herself on a freezing plane, pumping every three hours while surrounded by a full neonatal team ensuring Owen’s fragile survival. What followed was a relentless battle—two open-heart surgeries, life-threatening complications, and a harrowing stay in the ICU, where each day brought a new crisis, forcing Nicole to confront impossible choices and redefine hope in the face of unimaginable uncertainty.

Through raw storytelling, we reveal the power of advocacy, the need for safe spaces, and the healing that comes from being honestly heard.

Connect with Nicole:

Nicole provides Perinatal support, grief and loss, birth trauma, life coaching, and hosts women's retreats.

Website:

https://www.mothernurtureconsulting.com/

Instagram:

@stucktosovereigncoaching

https://www.instagram.com/motheringismedicine/

Email:

nicole@mothernurtureconsulting.com

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Doug's inspiring journey highlights overcoming childhood bullying, finding purpose through sports, and serving in the Navy despite a near-drowning experience. After leaving the military in 1984, he battled depression, failed relationships, and two suicide attempts. Seeking direction, he re-enlisted, deployed to Iraq in 2004, survived an ambush and a life-threatening infection, and was later medically retired. Feeling abandoned, he turned to veteran advocacy, mental health awareness, and mentoring through organizations like Toastmasters and the VFW.

In this episode, Doug emphasizes that suicide is a temporary escape from pain and urges those struggling to seek support, coping strategies, and community. His mission continues through Beacon for Hope, promoting daily acts of kindness and suicide prevention. Through his book and speaking engagements, he shares life lessons on resilience, mental health, and finding purpose.

Connect with Doug:

Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasbrinker-inspirationalspeaker/

Beacon 4 Hope LLC Website:

https://douglasbrinker.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/Beacon4Hope2024

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Beacon4Hope/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Trish is a retired dentist, a devoted mother of two, and a loving wife. She built a successful practice in Charleston, South Carolina, before life took an unexpected turn. After selling her practice earlier than planned, she and her husband moved to West Virginia, where she was suddenly diagnosed with stage four uterine cancer. What was initially believed to be a terminal prognosis turned into an incredible journey of survival. Through the care of exceptional medical professionals, the unwavering support of her husband, family, and friends, and her own deep spiritual transformation, Trish defied the odds and found healing.

Her journey was not only physical but deeply emotional and spiritual. She describes her recovery as an "undoing"—a release of fear, limiting beliefs, and emotional burdens that had weighed her down. This shift in perspective, combined with both traditional and alternative treatments, played a crucial role in her healing process. Now, Trish embraces each day with gratitude, sharing her story to inspire others facing adversity. She encourages those struggling to find peace within themselves, letting go of what no longer serves them, and embracing the love and support around them. Though she doesn’t dwell on labels like "remission," she is grateful for where she is today—alive, thriving, and filled with purpose.

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Ron Rapaport's journey from a pharmacy career to surviving male breast cancer twice is a powerful story of resilience. After retiring in 2016, he discovered a retracted nipple while on a trip to Spain in late 2018. Initially dismissing it, he later sought medical attention and, in early 2019, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Following surgery and treatment, Ron’s life was changed, and he became a strong advocate for male breast cancer awareness, educating others about this rare condition.

Through his advocacy work with MaleBreastCancerHappens.org, Ron raises awareness about the need for early detection and self-exams, emphasizing the importance of being proactive about one’s health. By sharing his story and challenging the stigma around male breast cancer, Ron has become a voice for others facing the disease, inspiring men to take charge of their health and seek support when needed.

Connect with Ron:

Podcast Website: https://itsawrapwithrap.com

Podcast Email: itsawrapwithrap@gmail.com

Podcast YouTube channel: ITS A WRAP WITH RAP-THE PODCAST UNCUT

Twitter (X) @wrapper130

IG ITSAWRAPWITHRAPPODCAST

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show

Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition’s mission is to establish and support a local system of care that optimizes the health of moms, babies, and their families living in Indian River County.

In today's conversation with Megan McFall, CEO of Indian River County Healthy Start, we unpack the staggering statistics of infant mortality in our community and explore the Fetal and Infant Mortality Review process. By analyzing mortality cases, we uncover systemic issues, and our discussion reveals how identifying care gaps can lead to preventative measures that protect the most vulnerable.

Along the way, we confront the emotional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, especially regarding fetal demises.

We also discuss the need for preconception and interconception care, recognizing the health challenges many women face before pregnancy.

Megan shares Healthy Start's initiatives, such as trauma-informed care and implicit bias training, empowering caregivers with essential tools.

Contact: Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition
1555 Indian River Blvd, Suite B241 Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 563-9118
info@irchealthystart.org
https://www.irchealthystartcoalition.org/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good.
https://chargood.com/home

Support the show