Where We Rise

15 | "I Think You Should Get a Dog" | Unexpected Life Lessons

Send Khalila a message. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593662/fan_mail/new] In this captivating conversation, Carmen Leal shares the raw truth of her medical crises — from a devastating car accident and life-altering head injury to battling suicidal thoughts and the emotional toll of chronic pain. You’ll discover how her dog, Coconut, became her unexpected savior, offering her love, loyalty, and a new perspective on life. Through her story, you'll learn that the greatest healing often comes from simple acts of love and routine—like a dog’s loyalty, a long walk, or a well-timed nap. We break down transformative lessons that dogs remind us every day: the importance of routine in a chaotic world, the power of unconditional love, and the courage to embrace new beginnings at any age. Carmen’s insights reveal that self-love and purposeful living are not just lofty ideals—they're within your reach, especially when you learn to listen to that quiet inner voice. She teaches us that hope can be found even after life’s most brutal storms and that serving others is a vital part of healing ourselves. Connect with Carmen Website: www.carmenleal.com [https://carmenleal.com/about-carmen] Facebook: Carmen Leal Connect with this show on Instagram @wherewerisepod [https://www.instagram.com/wherewerisepod/] Don't forget to leave a review!

14 | "The Next Best Step" | Living with Intention

Send Khalila a message. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593662/fan_mail/new] In this heartfelt conversation, Khalila McCoy and Debbie Simmons delve into the themes of intentionality and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Debbie shares her personal journey, which includes the profound loss of her quadruplets and the subsequent lessons learned about grief, faith, and the importance of asking the right questions. She emphasizes the shift from asking 'why' to 'how' as a means of navigating difficult times, highlighting the importance of taking actionable steps towards healing and growth. Debbie discusses the importance of faith in her decision-making process, particularly when it comes to adopting children and running Anchor Point, a nonprofit organization that provides resources for families facing various challenges, including pregnancy and trauma recovery. She shares insights on balancing multiple roles as a CEO, mother, and community leader, emphasizing the need for prioritization and delegation. The conversation wraps up with Debbie encouraging listeners to lean into their passions and trust in God's plan, reminding them that every day is a new opportunity for growth and impact. Connect with Debbie :  Book: TheHeartofLegacy.com [https://theheartoflegacy.com/] Website: TheDebbieSimmons.com [https://thedebbiesimmons.com/] Instagram: @thedebbiesimmons [https://www.instagram.com/thedebbiesimmons/] Connect with this show on Instagram @wherewerisepod [https://www.instagram.com/wherewerisepod/] Don't forget to leave a review!

13 | "The Assignment is Different" | Aligning Life with God’s Calling

Send Khalila a message. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593662/fan_mail/new] In this episode, Shelley Meche'tte shares her powerful story of surviving three strokes in a single day and the transformational journey that followed. She opens up about the moments leading up to the strokes, her experience in the ER, and how recovery reshaped her perspective, her healing, and her sense of purpose. Shelley reflects on the emotional impact on her family, the importance of honest conversations about faith, fear, and recovery, and how stepping into alignment shifted her entire career. This episode dives into resilience, purpose, and what it means to embrace a new God‑given assignment in life.  Connect with Shelley: Journey w/God, 5 Days to Realignment, Reflection and Renewal [https://shelleymechette.myflodesk.com/5dayjournal] God Said NO! A Stroke Survivor's Story of Resilience, Recovery & Renewal [https://shelleymechette.myflodesk.com/gsnwaitlist] (waitlist) Instagram: Shelley Meche'tte [https://www.instagram.com/shelleymechette/] Website: Shelley Meche'tte [https://www.shelleymechette.com/] Connect with this show on Instagram @wherewerisepod [https://www.instagram.com/wherewerisepod/] Don't forget to leave a review!

12 | "Last Act of Love" | End-of-Life Planning

Send Khalila a message. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593662/fan_mail/new] In this episode, author Lynn B. Stone discusses the importance of end‑of‑life planning and the emotional realities of navigating grief after the loss of her husband. Drawing from her book, ’Til Death Do Us Part: A Practical Guide to Preparing for the Inevitable, Lynn offers practical insights on organizing personal affairs, understanding the stages of grief, and building supportive systems during times of loss. This conversation explores the challenges of funeral planning, the role of community during bereavement, and the value of preserving memories as part of the healing process. Lynn also shares details about her upcoming projects designed to help individuals and families prepare for end‑of‑life decisions with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Connect with Lynn: Website: www.authorlynnbstone.com [https://www.authorlynnbstone.com/] Facebook: @authorlynnbstone LinkedIn: @authorlynnbstone Instagram: @authorlynnbstone [https://www.instagram.com/authorlynnbstone/] Listen to her podcast on all podcast platforms: The Flip Side of Death Connect with this show on Instagram @wherewerisepod [https://www.instagram.com/wherewerisepod/] Don't forget to leave a review!

11 | "The Stories We Tell... Matter" | Growing from Pain

Send Khalila a message. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593662/fan_mail/new] In this heartfelt episode, Ann Harikeerthan shares her inspiring journey of navigating chronic pain, autoimmune challenges, and the transformative power of storytelling and community. Her story highlights the importance of reframing suffering, self-care, and the healing found in creative expression. Connect with Ann: Instagram: @annharikeerthan [https://www.instagram.com/annharikeerthan/] Facebook: Ann Harikeerthan LinkedIn: Ann Harikeerthan Connect with this show on Instagram @wherewerisepod [https://www.instagram.com/wherewerisepod/] Don't forget to leave a review!