From Violent Crime Victim to Thriver: Patricia Wenskunas on Taking Her Power Back and Advocating for Survivors

Reclaiming the Music: Navigating Perimenopause with Dr. Dana Culp

Join your cohosts Neelia and Stacie on "Transforming and Thriving" for a vital conversation with Dr. Dana Culp, the founder of Thrive Midlife Medicine. Dr. Dana is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Certified Menopause Expert who is on a mission to ensure no woman feels unheard or frustrated during the transition into midlife. In this episode, Dr. Dana shares her powerful "before and after" moment: hitting the "perimenopause wall." Despite her 25 years of medical expertise, she found herself navigating a healthcare system that lacked the specialized resources she needed for her own hormone journey. This personal struggle became the foundation for her virtual practice, where she now helps women move through the "muck" of hormone shifts with evidence-based care and empathy. We dive deep into the importance of self-advocacy, the reality of symptoms like sleep disruption and loss of libido, and why midlife should be viewed as a thriving transition rather than an ending. Dr. Dana’s story is a testament to the fact that when we find gaps in care, we have the power to build a bridge for ourselves and others. Find out more about Dana and Thrive Midlife Medicine here: * Website: https://thrivemidlifemed.comthrivemidlifemed.com [https://thrivemidlifemed.com] * Take the Quiz: https://www.google.com/search?q=https://thrivemidlifemed.com/quizthrivemidlifemed.com/quiz [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://thrivemidlifemed.com/quiz] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivemidlifemed/@thrivemidlifemed [https://www.instagram.com/thrivemidlifemed/] Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthrivinghttps://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving [https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving] Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6 [https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6] Music by https://www.bensound.comhttps://www.bensound.com [https://www.bensound.com] License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

Forbidden Discoveries: A Lawyer’s Global Mission for Integrative Cancer Treatment with Sylvie Beljanski

Join your host Neelia on Transforming and Thriving for a gripping conversation with Sylvie Beljanski, a French lawyer who walked away from her legal career to protect a legacy of integrative health and cancer research. Connecting with us from New York, Sylvie shares a story that feels like it belongs in a thriller—but for her, it was a reality that changed her identity forever. In this powerful episode, Sylvie recounts her "before and after" moment: a phone call in France informing her that her parents had been arrested by a government SWAT team. Their crime? Conducting groundbreaking research into natural cancer treatments that the authorities wanted silenced. Despite having no scientific background, Sylvie realized that her legal expertise was the very tool needed to uncover suppressed evidence and fight for her father’s discoveries. Sylvie discusses her transition from being a "team of one" facing deep skepticism to becoming a world-renowned advocate and entrepreneur. She dives into the science behind the plant extracts her foundation studies—research conducted at Columbia University and through clinical trials—designed to target cancer cells specifically through integrative cancer treatment while protecting the body’s DNA. Whether you are navigating a health journey or feeling "unqualified" to make a major career pivot, Sylvie’s message is clear: your "why" must be bigger than your fear. This episode is an essential listen for anyone passionate about health freedom, holistic medicine, and the courage it takes to stand up for the truth. Find out more about Sylvie and the Beljanski Foundation here: * Website: https://www.beljanski.org/podcast/beljanski.org [https://www.beljanski.org/podcast/] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beljanskifoundation/@beljanskifoundation [https://www.instagram.com/beljanskifoundation/] * Book: Winning The War On Cancer (100% of proceeds support cancer research): https://www.maisonbeljanski.com/products/winning-the-war-on-cancerGet the book here [https://www.maisonbeljanski.com/products/winning-the-war-on-cancer] * Upcoming Event: Join the Integrative Cancer Conference in San Diego, CA (June 26–28, 2026): https://integrativecancerconference.comRegister here [https://integrativecancerconference.com] Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthrivinghttps://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving [https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving] Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6Click here [https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6] Music by https://www.bensound.comhttps://www.bensound.com [https://www.bensound.com] License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

From Violent Crime Victim to Thriver: Patricia Wenskunas on Taking Her Power Back and Advocating for Survivors

Join your host, Brooke, on Transforming and Thriving for an incredibly powerful and inspiring conversation with Patricia Wenskunas, the founder and CEO of Crime Survivors, Inc. Patricia's mission was born from her own survival of a violent attack in 2002 by her personal trainer, who threatened to kill her and her 12-year-old son. This horrific experience was the ultimate "before and after" moment that changed her life's trajectory. She bravely discusses confronting the survivor's guilt and realizing she was "so much more than what happened to me." In this moving episode, Patricia shares: * How the fierce commitment to caring for her son and helping others fueled her to move from victimhood, take her power back, and survive. * The ongoing process of transforming and thriving, which is driven by her desire that no one feel alone and the need to provide resources for victims and their family members. * Her commitment to bringing awareness, prevention, advocacy, and healing to others. * Her early and relentless advocacy for Marsy’s Law, fighting to ensure victims' rights are prioritized in the justice system. * How facing triggers with support is essential to taking your power back, and her guiding belief that “With Faith, there is Hope.” This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced trauma or abuse, is supporting a loved one through a difficult transition, or is searching for the strength to transform their own "mess into motivational fuel." Patricia Wenskunas is a living testament to the fact that healing is possible. CONNECT WITH PATRICIA WENSKUNAS AND CRIME SURVIVORS, INC. "You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated"—Maya Angelou Website: www.crimesurvivors.org Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CrimeSurvivors/] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/crimesurvivors] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/crimesurvivors/] | Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/crime-survivors-inc-/] Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthrivinghttps://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving [https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving] Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6 [https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6] Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations! DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here! [https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/Vqf3IA?utm_medium=qr&utm_source=qr&vid=1lfdaf] Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center. Music by https://www.bensound.comhttps://www.bensound.com [https://www.bensound.com] License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

The Power of Purpose: Everyday Women Transforming Cancer Research with the Kure It Women's Guild

Join your cohosts Neelia and Stacie on "Transforming and Thriving" for an inspiring conversation with Courtney Cretikos (Director of Strategy and Development) and Kerri Hatfield (President) of the Kure It Women's Guild! Their journey is a powerful testament to the impact that everyday women can have on the community, particularly in the fight against cancer. In this insightful episode, Courtney and Kerri share their "before and after" moments: Kerri's search for a way to give back beyond the PTA after cancer hit home, and Courtney's realization of the organization's immediate, profound impact after witnessing a young survivor's story. They dive deep into the mission of Kure It—a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit that ensures funding goes straight to underfunded cancer research, often seeing results in clinical trials within weeks of a campaign. The conversation highlights truly moving stories, including one woman with lung cancer who found hope through a trial supported through Kure It. They discuss their roles as advocates, educators, and fundraisers, emphasizing the passion and purpose found in their community, which they fondly call the "bee-hive." They also offer critical advice for anyone newly diagnosed with cancer or supporting a loved one: hope, faith, community, and advocacy are vital. Kerri and Courtney's message is a powerful one: Healing from cancer is a combination of medicine, hope, faith, and community, requiring you to be your own active advocate in the pursuit of wellness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to find purpose, get involved in their community, or learn more about hope in the fight against cancer. Find out more about Kure It and the Women's Guild here: * Website: Kureit.org * Instagram: @kureitwomensguild and @kureit * Mention: Kure It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization looking for sponsors and companies to partner with them to support cancer research. Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthrivinghttps://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving [https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving]  Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6 [https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6]  Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations! DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here! [https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/Vqf3IA?utm_medium=qr&utm_source=qr&vid=1lfdaf] Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center. We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BChttps://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC [https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC]  Music by https://www.bensound.comhttps://www.bensound.com [https://www.bensound.com] License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

The Power of a Shared Story: A Year of Healing & Transformation Recapped by Host Neelia Heydt

"A story shared is a burden halved and a light doubled." In this special "Best-Of" reflection episode of Transforming and Thriving, Neelia pulls back the curtain on a year of profound growth. This isn't just a recap; it’s a love letter to the human spirit’s ability to bend without breaking. Neelia has curated a tapestry of the most raw, courageous, and unforgettable moments that sparked healing, built courage, and forged deep connections in our community. We’re revisiting the conversations that made us stop in our tracks, catch our breath, and realize: “It’s not just me.” In this episode, we revisit the heart-opening wisdom of: * Stacie Weaver (Ep. 3): On the "unfiltered" reality of a difficult childbirth and postpartum challenges. Stacie reminds us why vulnerability isn't just a trait—it’s a mother’s greatest superpower. * Cecily Kelly (Ep. 7): On the quiet battle with imposter syndrome. Cecily shares the intentional steps to reclaiming your seat at the table with unshakeable confidence. * Erin Koppel (Ep. 8): On the heavy tides of grief and loneliness. Erin speaks to the life-saving necessity of a "forever community"—the people who stay long after the flowers have faded. * Maryanne Hibner (Ep. 21): On the alchemy of healing. Maryanne walks us through how she navigated the shadows of childhood trauma to emerge into a life of vibrant purpose. What you’ll walk away with: * A renewed sense of belonging and "we-ness." * Actionable insights on navigating grief, career doubt, and trauma. * The inspiration to start sharing your own story, knowing it has the power to heal others. Whether you’re a long-time listener or joining us for the first time, this episode is a warm invitation to break the silence and find strength in our collective journey. Join Neelia as she honors these incredible voices and celebrates a year of transformation. Tune in now to find the spark you need for your own next chapter. Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthrivinghttps://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving [https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving] Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6 [https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6] Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations! DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here! [https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/Vqf3IA?utm_medium=qr&utm_source=qr&vid=1lfdaf] Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center. We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BChttps://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC [https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC] Music by https://www.bensound.comhttps://www.bensound.com [https://www.bensound.com] License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.