We all know the feeling: life should be good. From the outside, everything looks fine—even enviable. But inside? It’s a different story. In this deeply moving episode, Brytani shares her journey as an active duty Marine who quietly carries the weight of depression, suicidal thoughts, and the ache of loneliness. Despite the strength she shows on the outside, Brytani’s story reveals the hidden cracks beneath the surface—the loss of meaningful relationships, the struggle to find purpose in a career that no longer feels aligned, and the painful fight to access the mental health care she desperately needs. Her honesty will stop you in your tracks. Because her story is our story—the story of holding it all together while falling apart. Of smiling in photos, but crying alone. Of feeling despair even when the world sees a beautiful life. If you’ve ever felt the disconnect between what your life looks like and how it actually feels, this conversation will make you feel seen. Brytani reminds us that healing begins with honesty. That doing the basics is sometimes the bravest thing we can do. And that reaching out—whether you’re the one hurting or the one who wants to help—matters more than we know. Listen in for a conversation that’s raw, real, and achingly relatable. You are not alone. Brytani Musick   Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Help, US and Canada: Canada: Crisis Services Canada: Provides a national helpline, available 24/7, for individuals in crisis or distress. Website: https://www.crisisservicescanada.ca/ Helpline: 1-833-456-4566 Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): CMHA offers a range of mental health resources, support, and information, including resources specifically for depression. Website: https://cmha.ca/ Kids Help Phone: A 24/7 helpline for young people in Canada to reach out for support and information. Website: https://kidshelpphone.ca/ Helpline: 1-800-668-6868 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): CAMH provides resources, treatment options, and education on mental health and addiction. Website: https://www.camh.ca/ United States: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources. Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ Helpline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Crisis Text Line: A free, 24/7 text messaging service providing support to people in crisis. Website: https://www.crisistextline.org/ Text line: Text "HELLO" to 741741 Mental Health America (MHA): MHA offers resources, information, and online screening tools to assess mental health concerns. Website: https://www.mhanational.org/ National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH provides information on mental health conditions, including depression, and conducts research to advance the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses. Website: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

The Trusted Friend Events Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic abuse and may be difficult for some listeners. Please take care while listening. At just 15 years old, Desiree Arias had no idea that her first love would turn into a six-year nightmare. “I didn’t know anything about boys or love,” she says. “He was my first, and I fell hard and fast. His love was all-encompassing.” But even after fully immersing herself in his world, she didn’t see the darkness hiding inside him—until it was too late. What started as passionate young love slowly turned into control, fear, and violence. His anger escalated. His tantrums became dangerous. And when he slapped her for the first time, Desiree realized the truth: she was in love with a monster. In this courageous and deeply vulnerable conversation, Desiree opens up about the emotional and physical abuse she endured, the moment she knew she had to leave, and the long, painful journey toward healing and reclaiming her life. This episode is a raw and important reminder that love should never hurt—and that no one is ever alone. Desiree's book "The Monster in Him"   If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone—and help is available. Here are some confidential resources you can contact for support: United States:📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)📱 Text “START” to 88788🌐 thehotline.org (24/7 live chat available) Canada:📞 ShelterSafe — Visit sheltersafe.ca to find a women’s shelter in your area📞 Talk4Healing (for Indigenous women) — 1-855-554-HEAL (4325) United Kingdom:📞 National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247🌐 nationaldahelpline.org.uk Australia:📞 1800RESPECT — 1800 737 732🌐 1800respect.org.au  

The Trusted Friend Events From changing diapers to breaking barriers in construction, Rossana Storani’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless determination. An immigrant from Argentina, Rossana left behind a life of wealth and comfort to start over in New York as a single mother. With no safety net, no English, and no clear path forward, she built not just a new life, but a thriving business in an industry dominated by men. For 25 years, Rossana has been a successful entrepreneur, business owner, and now an enthusiastic life coach, helping others navigate life’s biggest transitions. With compassion and empathy, she empowers individuals—especially middle-aged women—to embrace change, step into their strength, and create a life of purpose and fulfillment. In this episode, Rossana shares:From Motherhood to Master Builder: How she juggled raising a child while building a careerBreaking Barriers: Succeeding in construction as a woman in a male-dominated fieldResilience & Reinvention: The mindset shifts that helped her turn struggles into stepping stonesEmpowering Others: How she now helps others find their own strength and purpose From diapers to demolition to chasing her biggest dreams, Rossana’s story proves that no matter where you start, you have the power to build something extraordinary. More about Rossana and how you can reignite your dreams. Rossana Instagram WHAT'S YOUR STORY Sponsors:  Feed Your Sister  and Boroughs of the Dead

The Trusted Friend Meet Theresa Carpenter—Navy Commander, storyteller, and advocate for change. With 28 years of service, including a decade as an enlisted aviation electrician, she’s tackled the challenges of military life head-on. From leading public affairs for NATO’s Allied Maritime Command to orchestrating a high-profile naval exercise in India that caught the attention of President Trump, her career has been nothing short of extraordinary. But behind the accolades and achievements, Theresa has faced her own battles—struggles with alcohol, feelings of inadequacy, and the mental toll of a demanding career. She knows firsthand how difficult it can be to ask for help in a military culture that often values toughness over vulnerability. Now, she’s on a mission to change that. Through her storytelling, podcast Stories of Service (S.O.S.), and advocacy, she’s shining a light on the realities of mental health and addiction in the armed forces, pushing for better support systems for those who serve. In this episode, Theresa opens up about what it’s really like to be a woman in the Navy, the pressures of leadership, and her journey toward healing and self-acceptance. Whether you’re here for military insight, leadership lessons, or an inspiring story of resilience, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What it’s really like to serve at the highest levels of military leadership The mental and emotional toll of military life—and how Theresa turned things around What goes on behind closed doors in naval training and strategic exercises The surprising role of international collaboration in military readiness Why conversations around mental health and fairness in the military are more important than ever Theresa Carpenter Mobile Briefcase Theresa's Podcast on Youtube  

Trusted Friend What happens when you've dedicated your life to sports with a successful University basketball career,  only to realize there's no clear next step once it's over? The sport that once defined you is suddenly in the past—so what now? Then, as you watch the Olympic opening ceremony, something shifts. A new dream takes shape, a new challenge calls your name, and just like that, your path forward becomes clear. As a Canadian Olympian and the first woman to pilot a four-man bobsled with an all-female crew, she didn’t just challenge the status quo—she rewrote it. But this episode isn’t just about sports. It’s about pushing past limitations, questioning outdated systems, and having the courage to stand up for what’s right—even when others are waiting for you to fail. Alysia shares: ·  The unexpected inequalities she faced and how she fought for change·  How stepping outside her comfort zone opened doors she never imagined·  The mindset shifts that helped her turn obstacles into opportunities Her journey proves that breaking barriers isn’t just about winning medals—it’s about changing the game for those who come next. Whether you're an athlete, an advocate, or someone who’s ever been told "you can't," this conversation is for you.   More of Alysia

Morocco Girls Trip You know those friends who just get you and make you want to be better? That’s Michelle Cameron-Coulter. She’s an Olympic gold medalist, a six-time world champion in synchronized swimming, a TEDx speaker, and the host of Inspiring Possibilities. But beyond all the titles, she’s just an incredible human who lifts everyone around her. In this episode, we chat about her journey from being afraid of the water to standing on the Olympic podium, what it really takes to develop a Champion Mindset, and why trusting the process (even when it’s messy) is everything. Plus, she shares some hilarious and heartwarming stories about preparing for her TEDx talk—let’s just say, perfection is overrated! This conversation is full of inspiration, laughter, and real talk about chasing dreams, embracing imperfection, and lifting each other up along the way. You're going to love it! Just a taste of what you'll learn: - How Michelle went from being afraid of water to an Olympic gold medalist- What it really takes to develop a Champion Mindset- The behind-the-scenes of preparing for a TEDx talk (spoiler: perfection is overrated!)- Why trusting the process—even when it’s messy—is key to success- The power of lifting others up and leaving a lasting legacy Stay tuned in May: Michelle also talks about her mom, who had such a huge impact on her life. Her stories were so beautiful that I’m saving them for a special Mother’s Day episode because they deserve their own spotlight.  

Trusted Friend Upcoming Events In honor of International Women’s Day, we are diving into the extraordinary lives of women who defied expectations, risked everything, and played pivotal roles in shaping history—often without receiving the recognition they deserved Award-winning author and historian Clare Mulley has a gift for bringing history’s forgotten heroines to life. In this episode, she shares the gripping stories of fearless women like Christine Granville, the spy who talked her way out of Nazi execution, and Zo, who parachuted into Nazi-occupied Poland in a dress. Clare’s passion for uncovering untold stories makes history come alive in the most compelling way. These women weren’t just brave—they were brilliantly effective, shaping the world in ways that often went unrecognized. Join me as we explore their untold stories, the power of persistence, and the lessons we can learn from their courage. This episode is a celebration of resilience, resourcefulness, and the incredible impact of women who refused to be underestimated. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Women’s Greatest Strength: Many of these women succeeded because they were overlooked. The assumption that they were "harmless" became their greatest asset in espionage and resistance movements. Courage in the Face of Fear: Whether it was parachuting behind enemy lines, securing Nazi surrenders, or talking their way out of execution, these women took unimaginable risks—and won. Beyond Sacrifice—Effectiveness: Too often, we talk about their bravery and sacrifice but not enough about how incredibly effective they were. They didn’t just assist—they led. The Power of Storytelling: Many of these stories remained hidden for too long. Recognizing and sharing them isn’t just about honoring history—it’s about redefining what leadership and strength look like today.  Clare Mulley The Spy Who Loved Agent Zo The Women who Save the Children The Women Who Flew for Hilter

Trusted Friend Events Lisette Xavier’s life has been anything but predictable. She lost her mother when she was young, became a single mom of two when her husband left, and had every reason to give up. But instead, she found strength in her struggles, turned her pain into joy, and redefined what success looks like—becoming a sought-after speaker, a singer-songwriter, and even the host of her own children’s show on CBC "Best Day Ever with My Best Friend" In this episode, we talk about:Navigating loss and grief while forging a new pathHow motherhood shaped her artistry and resilienceThe power of storytelling through music and speakingReinventing herself after heartbreak and stepping into her dreamsThe lessons she’s learned about success, self-worth, and perseverance What you’ll also learn: You Are Not 'Too Much.' You’re Just in the Wrong Room. You Don’t Have to Choose Between Falling Apart and Showing Up. Therapy Isn’t Just for Crisis—It’s for Maintenance. Compartmentalizing Is an Art, Not Avoidance. Your Work Matters—Even If It’s Not 'Saving Lives.' Whether you're facing your own crossroads or need a reminder that your story isn’t over, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take the stage in your own life. Listen now and share with someone who needs this message! Lisette Xavier Best Day Ever with My Best Friend

The Trusted Friend Events MOROCCO GIRLS TRIP Paige’s story is one that is often too familiar, full of heartbreak and not how she saw love unfolding.  She found herself in a marriage filled with manipulation, betrayal, and emotional abuse—an experience that shook her to her core, affecting not just her self-worth but even her physical health. Walking away wasn’t easy, but it was the first step toward reclaiming her life. Now, years later, Paige has built something entirely different—a life filled with love, trust and joy. But the road to healing wasn’t simple, and she shares the raw, honest truth about what it took to get here. If you’ve ever wondered if true happiness is possible after deep pain, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear her incredible journey. More of Paige and the wisdoms and insights she shares on the daily.  

The Trusted Friend Christine’s world changed in an instant. What started as the perfect day—celebrating Bobby’s birthday, cherishing their time together as a family, and watching the sunset—became the last day they would ever share. Suddenly widowed with two little ones to care for, she was thrust into a journey of unimaginable grief and resilience. But love had a way of finding her again—sooner than she ever thought her heart would allow and in the unlikeliest of places. In this episode, Christine shares her heart-wrenching story of loss, the painful yet beautiful path to healing, and the unexpected second chance at love that brought hope back into her life. Her story will pull at your heartstrings and leave you deeply moved. More about Christine

The Trusted Friend Events What does it take to step into the shoes of one of the biggest superstars in the world? In this episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Charity Eden, a singer-songwriter in her own right who has captivated audiences with her uncanny ability to perform as Taylor Swift. From the way she perfectly mirrors Taylor’s voice to the way she moves, interacts with the crowd, and embodies the star’s presence, Charity has mastered the art of tribute like few others. But beyond the costume changes and sold-out tribute concerts, Charity is also an artist with her own unique voice and vision. We talk about her original music, her journey as a performer, and what it’s like to balance her personal artistry with the ever-growing demand for her Swift-inspired shows. Is it a dream come true or a challenge to constantly step into someone else’s spotlight? How does she navigate the fine line between tribute artist and independent musician? And what’s next for Charity as she continues to evolve in both worlds? Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, performance, and finding your own place in the music industry—even when you’re best known for playing someone else. Charity Eden Love Taylor Tribute Tour

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Hayley Isabel, at only 13 years old, she's already a rising star in the country music scene whose talent and passion are capturing hearts everywhere. From her humble beginnings at an open mic on her 10th birthday to performing on some of the big stages, Hayley shares her journey of turning dreams into reality. We’ll chat about her award-winning originals like "Colour Changing" and "Fly High," the mentors who’ve guided her, and the moments that have shaped her as an artist. With inspiration from icons like Taylor Swift and Lainey Wilson, Hayley’s story is one of dedication, authenticity, and a love for connecting with her audience. If you’re a fan of music, storytelling, and dreaming big, this episode is one you don’t want to miss! Tune in and get to know Hayley Isabel—a name you’ll be hearing for years to come. Hayley Isabel What's YOUR Story?

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BONUS EPISODE Laura and I sit down and chat about all the details and answering your most frequently asked questions about our upcoming epic girls' trip to Morocco!  From what to pack to what makes this adventure so unique, I’ve got you covered. If you’ve been dreaming about wandering vibrant souks, riding camels in the desert, and soaking up the magic of Morocco, this is the perfect episode for you. Whether you’re already signed up or just curious, tune in to get all the info you need to join this exclusive adventure. Ready to make it happen? Email me at share@thetrustedfriend.ca, and I’ll send you everything you need to know! Let’s get inspired and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Hey friends, Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! This episode is all about those big, life-changing moments where you realize you’ve been living on autopilot—and decide it’s time to take back control.  Embrace my talents and being my authentic self. Ariana is a fast-talking, deep thinking, eloquent speaking beautiful woman and her thoughts are a whirlwind of deep insights and big ideas that will leave you inspired and thinking differently about life. Hang on tight as she talks about mindset shifts, purpose-driven living, and why being inspired is so much more sustainable than chasing fleeting motivation. It’s packed with ideas, insights, and a whole lot of heart. Our hope is that it leaves you feeling like you can take a deep breath, shift your perspective, and start showing up for the life you truly want. All while being your Authentic self!!  Let’s choose joy together. Follow the The Trusted Friend for daily posts all about our guests. You can find more of Ariana's insights here

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Whitney, a mother who courageously shares the story of her daughter, Ruby. Confronted with a devastating diagnosis, Whitney made the unimaginable choice to let Ruby return to heaven. She opens up about navigating chronic pain, the depths of grief, and the journey of keeping Ruby’s memory alive in her everyday life. Whitney reveals the profound insights she’s gained—about love, acceptance, and the importance of extending compassion to those facing difficult paths. Join us for an intimate conversation that honors the enduring bond between a mother and her child, offering hope and understanding to others who may be experiencing similar losses. What we will learn: The Strength Found in Vulnerability – Whitney’s story shows how opening up about loss and heartbreak can be a source of healing and connection, not just for oneself but for others. Navigating Grief with Grace – Listeners will hear how Whitney navigates her grief, honoring Ruby's memory while finding ways to move forward, illustrating that grief can coexist with moments of love and hope. The Importance of Compassionate Support – Whitney's experience highlights how essential it is to support others without judgment, especially in times of loss or difficult choices. Keeping Loved Ones’ Memories Alive – Listeners will see how Whitney keeps Ruby’s memory present in her life and how remembering loved ones can bring comfort and a sense of purpose. Learning to Make Heart-Centered Decisions – Whitney’s story will inspire listeners to trust their intuition and love when faced with tough choices, recognizing that even the hardest decisions can be made with compassion and care. Whitney's Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Lucy, a mum of three from England and a certified Freedom Fertility Formula Specialist. Lucy takes us on an emotional and inspiring journey through her battles with primary and secondary infertility, including the heartbreak of miscarriage and the intense challenges of IVF. Like many couples, Lucy and her husband initially focused solely on the physical side of their fertility struggle, leaving their mental and emotional wellbeing neglected. Through her deeply personal story, Lucy discusses the importance of addressing the mental and emotional aspects of infertility, the impact it has on relationships, and the overwhelming feelings of isolation, fear, and frustration that many experience. She also highlights how essential support systems and mindset shifts can be for navigating one of the toughest battles a person can face.   What You Will Learn from This Episode: · The Importance of Mental and Emotional Wellbeing in Fertility: Discover why addressing your emotional health is just as critical as the physical aspects of fertility treatment. · Tools to Manage Fertility-Related Stress: Learn specific strategies and techniques that can help you regain a sense of calm and control during your fertility journey. · The Role of Support Systems: Understand how professional guidance, like the Freedom Fertility Formula™, and emotional support can make a difference in navigating infertility. · How to Overcome the Isolation of Infertility: Hear tips on breaking the silence around infertility struggles and building connections that support your emotional wellbeing. · Coping with Miscarriage and Loss: Gain insights into how to process grief, manage anxiety, and build resilience after a miscarriage. · Shifting Your Mindset for Empowerment: Learn how shifting from a place of fear and despair to one of calm and empowerment can positively impact your fertility experience. · Lucy’s Personal Journey and How It Can Help You:  Get inspired by Lucy’s story of overcoming primary and secondary infertility, and how her experience can offer hope to others on a similar path.   LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lucyfroese Instagram https://www.instagram.com/paths2parenthood/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/paths2parenthood TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@paths2parenthood website: www.paths2parenthood.uk  

In this haunting episode, host Lisa Helton explores the chilling stories of three remarkable women whose lives and spirits continue to resonate through history. I share the tragic tale of Kate Morgan, whose restless spirit haunts the Hotel Del Coronado; the eccentric Sarah Winchester, whose grand mansion stands as a testament to grief and persistence; and the innocent Dorothy Good, the youngest victim of the Salem witch trials, whose lingering presence serves as a reminder of the innocence lost in times of turmoil. Drawing from the compelling narratives found in "The Haunted History of Invisible Women", by Leanna Hieber & Andrea Janes, this episode uncovers the deep connections between their experiences and the societal challenges women have faced throughout history.

In this powerful episode, we explore the heart-wrenching story of a woman who endured years of emotional and physical abuse from the very person meant to nurture and protect her—her mother. Drawing parallels to the story of the "Bummer Lamb," a lamb rejected by its mother yet later nurtured back to health, this episode highlights her journey of survival, healing, and reclaiming her sense of worth. Through raw honesty, she shares how the trauma shaped her life, the deep scars it left, and how she ultimately found the strength to break free from the cycle of pain and find love within herself. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and the power of self-forgiveness. If you wish to send a message to her, please send via The Trusted Friend to share@thetrustedfriend.ca and I'll be sure she receives it. National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799 (SAFE) 7233 Site Dedicated to Preventing Child Abuse Link for Helping Parents Stop It Now Organization  National Association for People Abused in Childhood Victim Connect Link Sexual Assault Hotline National Sexual Assault Hotlines/Links      

Kaiya Gamble is a soulful singer-songwriter and a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and philanthropy. Her love for music and her commitment to giving back have touched countless lives. Today, she shares her journey—from her early days of writing touching song for her grandma to delivering powerful performances that resonate deeply with audiences. We’ll explore her songwriting process, her involvement with charitable causes, and how staying true to herself has been the cornerstone of her career. Keep an eye out for Kaiya Gamble, a rising star with so much to offer. With new music and a brand new music video set to release in the coming months, make sure to follow Kaiya so you don’t miss any of the incredible projects she has on the horizon. Kaiya's Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Kaiya's Website Spotify Apple Music