John Graham on Service, Healing, and Pursuing a Meaningful Life

John Graham on Service, Healing, and Pursuing a Meaningful Life

The Meaning of Life and Purpose: "I began to realize that what was important was the meaning of life. And I discovered that the meaning of life was not physical, dangerous adventuring. It had to be something else, something deeper, something more impactful. And I found that meaning in giving back in service and using my considerable skills and resources to help solve difficult public problems." I sit down with John Graham, whose extraordinary life journey has taken him from a quiet upbringing in Tacoma, Washington, to the heart of global adventures and service. Once hooked on adrenaline and danger—from hitchhiking through revolutions to scaling perilous mountains and navigating war zones as a U.S. Foreign Service officer—John Graham found his purpose transformed by the harsh realities and personal reckonings of war, particularly during his pivotal experience in Vietnam. Now 83, John Graham reflects on how moments of crisis and profound introspection led him to discover a deeper sense of meaning through service, healing, and the pursuit of justice. He shares insights from his journey through PTSD, the importance of community and support, and the shift from self-focused adventure to a life of giving back, including his pivotal role with the Giraffe Heroes Project. John Graham talks about his techniques for cultivating purpose, overcoming obstacles, and even touches on his remarkable three-year period of mysticism—offering a compelling perspective on what it means to live a life of meaning, courage, and compassion. Key takeaways for anyone on their own journey: * A meaningful life is the foundation for fulfillment: True satisfaction doesn’t come from adrenaline or external wins—it comes from service, impact, and giving back to others. Ask yourself regularly if your work and life feel meaningful. * Start small and persevere: Change and healing happen gradually. Whether you’re overcoming setbacks or searching for purpose, take small steps and be patient with yourself. Even a “red light moment” can prompt deep self-reflection. * Your skills can serve the world, wherever you are: Service isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about doing what you can—whether you’re in business, education, or your local community. Lift up the corner of the rug you can reach. For more stories about sticking your neck out for the greater good, check out the Giraffe Heroes Project at giraffe.org [https://www.giraffe.org]. And if you’re searching for the substance behind your success, never stop asking where your purpose lies. Mentioned in this episode: outro

Marla Miller’s Journey with Chronic Lyme and Functional Medicine

I hope this conversation inspires you to keep advocating for yourself, building community, and believing that it’s possible to find your way back—even if the journey looks nothing like you expected. Welcome back to The Rescue Room, where real stories and raw conversations meet. I’m Hattie Hawks, your host, and in this episode, I sit down with Marla Miller to talk about the challenging world of chronic illness—especially chronic Lyme disease. Together, we share our personal journeys—mine as someone who was diagnosed with Lyme disease a year and a half ago, and Marla’s as a mother and advocate who has navigated years of searching for answers, advocating for her family, and learning how to blend Western and functional medicine approaches to healing. We talk openly about the overwhelm of changing every aspect of our lives, the deep and often overlooked link between trauma and chronic health, and what it’s like to parent children with chronic conditions. For both Marla and me, the road to feeling seen and heard in the medical system was long—and sometimes lonely. This episode is for anyone who’s ever had to fight to be understood, who’s wondered if they’re the only one struggling, or who’s curious about how trauma, health, and healing intersect. Moments 00:00 Seeking alternative health treatments 04:38 Starting fresh after trauma 10:01 Changing lifestyle and focusing on food 10:50 Importance of gut health 14:20 Studying body systems and nutrition 18:27 Supporting a son's mental health 22:57 Parenting challenges and modern stress 24:59 Shifting focus to integrative medicine 30:22 Dealing with social media pressure 31:48 Impact of toxins on health 34:32 Understanding the mind-body connection 39:03 Reflections on healing and gratitude 42:20 Talking about trauma and emotions 47:16 Talking about health care change 50:24 Helping others with treatment options 51:57 Dealing with a health crisis Key Takeaways: * Chronic illness often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Western medicine and integrative/functional medicine both play essential roles, but true healing often means becoming your own advocate and exploring beyond the standard protocols. * Regulating your nervous system is foundational. As Marla Miller shared, calming the body—through community, mindfulness, or lifestyle changes—can directly impact health outcomes, resilience, and the healing journey. * Prevention and curiosity are essential. Don’t wait for crisis—pay attention to subtle symptoms, trust your intuition, and ask questions. Prevention, not just chasing a cure, should be a focus for individuals, families, and the healthcare system. If you are looking for some resources to help yourself grow to heal from trauma, please go to my Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/HattieHawksOnTV]. You'll find a set of links there. You'll also be able to see what Mindful Retreats is. It is an experience that helps you to learn more about these tools in real time, along with a little bit of luxury. These are quarterly events that you can sign up to be a part of, or you can join our free community on Skool [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA], called Authentic Connection for Healing [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA]. We have space where you can go and find like-minded people who are on that same journey, who are just trying to learn some of these new concepts in order to better their lives. Copyright 2026 Hattie Hawks Mentioned in this episode: outro

Exploring Masculinity, Vulnerability, and Healing with Joe DeLoss

Get ready for an honest, reflective, and inspiring conversation that opens up new ways of looking at success, service, and true connection. I’m excited to introduce our guest, Joe DeLoss—former CEO of Hot Chicken Takeover and current owner of Baker Road [https://www.joedeloss.com/]. Joe’s journey is filled with entrepreneurial drive, emotional growth, and a deep dive into what it means to become our most authentic selves. Joe and I talk about his own struggles with chasing external validation, the pivotal moments that sparked his inner awareness, and how those lessons now fuel his work at Baker Road, an adventure retreat designed for healing and personal development. We explore what it means to be the best version of ourselves as men and women, discuss the impact of parenting, and unpack the unique challenges of emotional safety and vulnerability. Joe also shares his perspective on relationships, the pitfalls of commodified wellness, and why honoring individual paths to healing matters. Moments 07:47 Personal struggles and self-discovery 16:04 Creating restorative spaces and growth 17:38 Creating transformative outdoor experiences 24:44 Connecting through vulnerability and growth 31:09 Homeschooling and nature-based lifestyle 36:05 Navigating partnership and family life 42:45 Chasing wellness and finding contentment 49:49 Embracing compassion and feminine energy 54:14 Overcoming shame and starting growth 59:03 Finding balance and self-awareness 01:05:35 Navigating empathy and boundaries 01:13:13 Connecting with like-minded practitioners If you are looking for some resources to help yourself grow to heal from trauma, please go to my Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/HattieHawksOnTV]. You'll find a set of links there. You'll also be able to see what Mindful Retreats is. It is an experience that helps you to learn more about these tools in real time, along with a little bit of luxury. These are quarterly events that you can sign up to be a part of, or you can join our free community on Skool [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA], called Authentic Connection for Healing [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA]. We have space where you can go and find like-minded people who are on that same journey, who are just trying to learn some of these new concepts in order to better their lives. Copyright 2026 Hattie Hawks Mentioned in this episode: outro

Facing Leukemia at 31: Olivia Hiltbrand’s Journey Through Trauma, Healing, and Law School

This conversation blends heartache and hope, vulnerability and resilience, and of course, some laughter along the way. Welcome back to another episode of The Rescue Room. I’m Hattie Hawks, your host, and today’s conversation is especially close to my heart. I’m joined by my good friend and former colleague, Olivia Hiltbrand—a fellow journalist whose strength has blown me away over the past few years. Olivia’s story is powerful: at just 31, and in the middle of a global pandemic, she was diagnosed with leukemia. I remember so vividly when she got that news, and how our newsroom rallied around her. In this episode, Olivia opens up about everything from the shock of her diagnosis and what it was like navigating treatment during COVID-19, to the ways it changed her marriage, her outlook on life, and how much caregivers go through that people often don’t see. We get real about what it means to deal with medical debt, how Olivia channeled her empathy and drive to advocate for others, and the day-to-day realities of living with the uncertainties that come after cancer. Olivia is now a lawyer, using her story and her voice to make change—not just for herself, but for those who will follow her. She’s raising money for blood cancer research, fighting for policy reform, and offering a hand to anyone going through similar trenches. I’m so grateful to share this space with Olivia—and if you’re looking for inspiration, community, or just a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode is for you. Here are my top 3 takeaways from her story: 1. Resilience can look different for each of us. Olivia shared how her diagnosis changed her relationship with herself and her priorities, making her even more determined to show up for others. 2. Advocacy isn’t just about your own story. Olivia has pushed for medical debt fairness and taken part in fundraising efforts, actively working to make things better for other cancer patients, even when her own journey was challenging. 3. Finding connection and support is vital. Whether it’s through patient communities, professional networks, or simply reaching out, Olivia stressed how talking with others who “get it” is an essential part of moving forward after trauma. Blood Cancer United Employee Matching Gifts link [https://bloodcancerunited.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/employee-matching-gifts] Olivia's FB [https://www.facebook.com/OliviaFecteauNews/] Olivia's LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviafecteauhiltbrand/] Olivia's Visionaries of the Year Fundraiser [https://pages.lls.org/voy/coh/columbus26/ohiltbrand] Moments 00:00 "Olivia's Journey: Fighting Cancer" 05:49 "Diagnosis Fear During COVID" 06:57 "Preparing for Difficult Diagnosis" 10:45 Blurry Memories During Illness 13:56 Cancer Remission & Ongoing Anxiety 17:02 Medical Debt Relief Measures 21:46 United for Blood Cancer Awareness 25:31 Increased Appreciation and Awareness 29:14 "Moving Forward Through Adversity" 30:45 Work-Life Balance Priorities 36:25 Healing Through Shared Experiences 37:36 Support Through Life's Disruptions If you are looking for some resources to help yourself grow to heal from trauma, please go to my Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/HattieHawksOnTV]. You'll find a set of links there. You'll also be able to see what Mindful Retreats is. It is an experience that helps you to learn more about these tools in real time, along with a little bit of luxury. These are quarterly events that you can sign up to be a part of, or you can join our free community on Skool [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA], called Authentic Connection for Healing [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA]. We have space where you can go and find like-minded people who are on that same journey, who are just trying to learn some of these new concepts in order to better their lives. Presented by Nissan North [https://www.nissanofcolumbus.com/] The Nissan North Team in Columbus Can't Wait to Hear from You! Our top priority is caring for our customers, so we're always open to hearing your feedback, questions, and comments. Please do not hesitate to contact us immediately with any questions, comments, or inquiries you may have regarding the Nissan North family. Follow us on Facebook! [https://www.facebook.com/NissanNorth] Copyright 2026 Hattie Hawks Mentioned in this episode: outro

Understanding the Emotional Impact of the Epstein Files

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, angry, or searching for some sense of peace, I hope this episode helps remind you: you’re not alone, and even in the hardest moments, healing is possible. Welcome back to The Rescue Room, where real stories and raw conversations make space for all of us to feel seen and understood. I’m Hattie Hawks, your host—and in this episode, I’m sitting down with Chicago-based clinical psychologist Dr. Alexandra Kutnick [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrakutnick/] to talk through something that’s weighing heavily on so many of us: the emotional and mental impact of the Epstein Files. We’re diving into what’s happening inside as we process these explosive court records and investigative documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein and the federal sex trafficking case, and what it means when there’s so little accountability for such high-profile crimes. Dr. Kutnick shares what she’s hearing from her own patients—how rage, numbness, and helplessness are everywhere, and how old traumas can be triggered all over again by stories like this. Together, we’ll talk about how to navigate the relentless news updates, the unique ways men and women process traumatic information, and why having hope—no matter how hard it is—remains at the core of healing. I’ll also open up about my own journey as a journalist and mindset coach, and why creating a space for honest conversation matters now more than ever. Moments 00:00 "Understanding Trauma and Epstein Files" 03:28 Epstein Case and High-Profile Names 08:02 Managing and Understanding Personal Rage 10:55 "Understanding Emotional Differences" 15:39 "Growth, Trauma, and Fear" 19:01 "Understanding Flaws and Helplessness" 22:00 Healing Requires Hope and Optimism 24:57 "Reflections on Empathy and Journalism" 28:20 Managing Anxiety Through Body Awareness 30:35 "Managing News Consumption Boundaries" 34:21 Media's Evolving Impact on Connection 38:11 Managing Trauma and Emotional Overload 40:49 Grace and Embracing Emotions 43:52 "Collective Healing Through Challenges" Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone who’s been feeling the weight of the headlines lately: 1. Name Your Feelings, Don’t Suppress Them: Both Dr. Alexandra Kutnick and I emphasize that allowing your emotions to have “their day” (instead of pushing them down) brings relief and self-understanding. Suppressed feelings can come out sideways as irritability or anxiety—naming what’s happening is freeing. 2. Nervous System Regulation Starts in the Body: The conversation highlighted that nervous system care actually begins with physical practices. Simple breathwork, body scans, gentle movement, and pausing after consuming difficult news help anchor us and calm our minds. 3. Boundaries Are Essential—Especially With the News: With 24/7 scrolling and constant exposure to traumatic headlines, it’s vital to set limits. It’s okay to step back for your own wellness, and checking in with yourself after immersing in information is key. If you are looking for some resources to help yourself grow to heal from trauma, please go to my Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/HattieHawksOnTV]. You'll find a set of links there. You'll also be able to see what Mindful Retreats is. It is an experience that helps you to learn more about these tools in real time, along with a little bit of luxury. These are quarterly events that you can sign up to be a part of, or you can join our free community on Skool [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA], called Authentic Connection for Healing [https://www.skool.com/authentic-connection-4-healing-6058/about?ref=f5bb80fc043949ea855a0692adc431ff&fbclid=IwY2xjawOmo6VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXWFBrUE9jQk5XaE1EaWtBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi9lYZjHOuvre5t3BLLjVVvFWGphkPN8UonOr7-l9ynNhW1nccO6mb8738pv_aem_IG6f3yKBUQrhUxKi7_ir8w&brid=MkxN8Htd5EyQMgH8EcaMsA]. We have space where you can go and find like-minded people who are on that same journey, who are just trying to learn some of these new concepts in order to better their lives. Presented by Nissan North [https://www.nissanofcolumbus.com/] The Nissan North Team in Columbus Can't Wait to Hear from You! Our top priority is caring for our customers, so we're always open to hearing your feedback, questions, and comments. Please do not hesitate to contact us immediately with any questions, comments, or inquiries you may have regarding the Nissan North family. Follow us on Facebook! [https://www.facebook.com/NissanNorth] Copyright 2026 Hattie Hawks