The Human Experience

Show Notes:
In this heartfelt episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson, a shamanic healer, artist, and speaker whose life story is one of resilience, hope, and transformation.

Maria opens up about her personal journey through trauma, addiction, and domestic violence, sharing how she overcame struggles with self-worth and found her path to healing. Through sobriety, holistic practices, and shamanic wisdom, Maria discovered the importance of self-love, boundaries, and spiritual connection.

Today, she helps others navigate their own healing journeys—using movement, dance, writing, and light language as tools for transformation. Her testimony highlights the power of vulnerability, resilience, and faith in creating a life of authenticity and purpose.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, addiction, and trauma. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Key Takeaways:
● Maria shares personal stories of trauma, addiction, and recovery.
● Her journey includes experiences with domestic violence, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
● A spiritual awakening led her to embrace holistic and shamanic practices as tools for healing.
● Self-love, healthy boundaries, and resilience were key in her transformation.
● Creative expression—through dance, writing, and spoken word—helped her reclaim her voice.
● Healing is an ongoing process that requires courage, community, and faith.
● Intuition and spiritual connection play an essential role in daily life.
● Maria’s story is a testament to the transformative power of love and vulnerability.

Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson’s Bio:
Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson is a woman walking the journey of life guided by the healing power of love. A heart-centered healer, Maria is a practicing master shamanic healer and under her brands Emotional Musings and The Musing Shaman, she works with clients all over the world, both in-person and virtually.

Her poetry and Light language inspire others on their healing journeys and stand as living proof of her motto, “Triumphing over Trauma.” Maria has overcome abuse, addiction to drugs and alcohol, and an eating disorder. She is also a three-time triathlete, a master of movement medicine, and a spoken word artist.

Today, Maria speaks to audiences of all ages as a motivational speaker and healer, helping others strengthen the mind-body-spirit connection and step into higher consciousness and self-love.

In this episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin travels to Clermont, FL and welcomes Derek Newborn, who shares his raw and inspiring journey from abandonment, trauma, and self-destruction to transformation, healing, and purpose.

Growing up in Fort Myers, Florida, Derek faced the pain of parental incarceration, single-parent struggles, and a deep sense of abandonment. Becoming a father at 16 and navigating hardships such as divorce, narcissism, and a suicide attempt, Derek reveals how he reached rock bottom and began the hard process of rebuilding his life.

Through deep vulnerability, self-reflection, and a spiritual awakening, Derek learned to take ownership of his story. His journey of resilience offers listeners valuable insight into self-compassion, accountability, and the power of rewriting one’s narrative.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and trauma. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Key Takeaways:
● Childhood experiences and family dynamics shape adult struggles and emotional development.
● Derek shares the impact of parental incarceration and the challenges of being raised by a single parent.
● Abandonment and isolation influenced destructive patterns in relationships and self-worth.
● His journey of self-discovery highlights the importance of accountability and rewriting one’s story.
● Trauma is subjective—its impact depends on how it’s carried and processed.
● Community support, vulnerability, and self-compassion are vital to healing.
● Forgiveness is powerful but doesn’t always mean reconciliation.
● Derek describes the shift from narcissism and self-centeredness to authentic connection.
● A spiritual awakening redefined his purpose and ability to help others.

Derek Newborn’s Bio:
Once named one of Florida’s “Top Personal Trainers” and a published fitness model, Derek Newborn appeared to have it all. But beneath the surface, he was unraveling. Multiple suicide attempts, destructive relationships, and narcissistic behaviors nearly cost him everything.

Instead of ending his life, Derek chose to end the version of himself that was destroying it. Through resilience, accountability, and faith, he rebuilt his life brick by brick. Today, Derek helps women escape toxic relationships with narcissists, reclaim their worth, and reconnect with their authentic selves—mentally, spiritually, and physically.

Having lived many lives—teenage father, construction worker, trainer, model, business owner, and survivor—Derek proves it’s never too late to rewrite your story. His mission is clear: no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise again—and thrive.

 In this powerful and emotionally charged episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down in Boynton Beach, FL. with Michael W. Allison, MBA—U.S. Marine, Purple Heart recipient, award-winning keynote speaker, and best-selling author—to explore a remarkable life story shaped by trauma, transformation, and purpose.

From a challenging immigrant childhood in Jamaica and Miami marked by poverty, bullying, and abuse, Michael shares his road to redemption through military service, leadership, and healing. He opens up about his combat experiences in Iraq, including surviving a VBIED car bomb, and the lasting psychological impact of war.

Michael also discusses how he rebuilt his life after service—founding The Adversity Academy, helping Fortune 500 companies and federal agencies unlock performance through resilience, and stepping onto stages around the world to inspire others to lead with identity, strength, and courage.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, suicide, and violence. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Key Takeaways:

 ● Michael’s early life in Jamaica was shaped by poverty, natural disasters, and trauma.

 ● After immigrating to Miami, he faced bullying, family struggles, and cultural challenges.

 ● Joining the U.S. Marine Corps gave him a sense of direction, discipline, and brotherhood.

 ● Boot camp and military service taught him adaptability, leadership, and mental toughness.

 ● He recounts intense combat experiences in Iraq and the emotional toll of war.

 ● The unbreakable bonds between Marines and their shared resilience are a central theme.

 ● Michael explores how trauma shaped his personal life and how healing became a mission.

 ● Today, he is a global speaker and resilience coach for elite clients including Microsoft, Netflix, and Amazon.

 ● His frameworks—Break The Bottle™, Protect The House™, and Leadership Re-Entry™—are used by leaders worldwide to overcome adversity and perform under pressure.

Michael W. Allison’s Bio:

 Michael W. Allison, MBA is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart recipient, 2x Navy & Marine Achievement Medal honoree, INC 5000 entrepreneur, and award-winning internationally recognized keynote speaker. He is the founder of The Adversity Academy Leadership Development Group, where he helps Fortune 500 brands, federal agencies, and industry leaders unlock performance through resilience and identity-driven leadership.

Michael is the creator of the Break The Bottle™, Protect The House™, and Leadership Re-Entry™ frameworks—trusted globally to develop high-performing executive teams. A TEDx speaker and best-selling author of Overcoming Adversity: Getting Your Life Back on Track, Michael draws from his combat survival and trauma recovery experience to guide others toward clarity, conviction, and cultural transformation.

He believes that breaking personal barriers is not just for oneself—but for everyone still watching and wondering if they can.

Connect with Michael Allison:

Matt Gilhooly, host of The Life Shift podcast, shares the story behind his own pivotal life shift—the sudden death of his mother when he was just eight years old. In a deeply moving conversation, Matt reflects on the fallout that followed, the perfectionism that took hold, and how it took him 20 years to finally face the grief he had buried. He opens up about processing trauma in therapy, learning to live intentionally, and the radically different way he was able to say goodbye to his grandmother. Matt’s story is one of heartbreak, healing, and learning to hold space—for himself and others.

Interview recorded in Orlando, FL.

Key Takeaways:

• Matt’s life changed forever when his mother died in a motorcycle accident while he was visiting his father for the summer.
• That moment led to a perfectionist mindset, rooted in fear of further abandonment.
• It took Matt 20 years to begin processing his grief—and therapy helped him understand how much of his life was driven by the fear of not being enough.
• He learned from that experience how to grieve differently when his grandmother—the most consistent maternal figure in his life—passed away.
• Starting The Life Shift podcast became a healing outlet, helping him connect with others through their pivotal life stories.
• Matt’s story highlights how grief can be delayed, repressed, or misunderstood—and how compassion begins with truly listening.

Matt’s Bio:

Matt Gilhooly is the creator and host of The Life Shift Podcast, where he shares candid conversations about the moments that change everything. With nearly 200 episodes and counting, Matt’s built a space where everyday stories are treated with the care and depth they deserve.

He’s also a creative producer and communications strategist with a background in higher education, brand storytelling, and internal communications. But at his core, Matt’s a meaning-maker – someone who believes that honest, human connection is where the real magic happens.

You can learn more at www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com or find The Life Shift wherever you listen to podcasts.

Connect with Matt:

Katherine Mitchell’s 84-year journey defies the limits of a single identity. Born during WWII in Hungary, she survived war, communism, and displacement before building a multifaceted life in the U.S. As a nationally ranked gymnast turned refugee, talent agent turned screenwriter, single mother turned novelist, Katherine’s story is a testament to grit, adaptability, and lifelong learning. In this heartfelt and often humorous conversation, she opens up about the moments that shaped her—from math lessons that sparked logical thinking to the heartbreaks and breakthroughs of a life spent chasing meaning, not just success.

Interview recorded in Orange City, FL.

Key Takeaways:

• Katherine was born in wartime Hungary and raised by her grandmother while her mother survived a concentration camp.
• After escaping Hungary following the 1956 revolution, she began a new life in the U.S., learning English and working jobs from Woolworth’s to Wall Street.
• Her early love for math laid the groundwork for a structured, logical approach that served her across industries.
• She transitioned from being a gymnast to a playwright, then became a Hollywood agent and screenwriter—all while raising a child alone.
• After nearly 30 years in California, a major earthquake pushed her to reinvent herself once more—this time as a novelist in Florida.
• Katherine speaks candidly about dreams deferred, lessons in resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of inner peace and creative fulfillment.
• Her perspective on compassion and passion is both simple and profound: one is about giving; the other, about being moved to act.

Katherine’s Bio:

It is an arduous task to capsulize 84 years of life that started as a war baby in Europe. Years of being a nationally ranked gymnast ended in escaping from communist Hungary. The refugee saga went from dishwasher to retail jobs, to love, marriage to an actor and on to Hollywood; from talent agent to screenwriter; from broken marriage to single parenting; always taking college courses to better myself. A 6.9 (7.) earthquake triggered my exit from California; becoming a novelist in Florida continued to fulfill years of working for acceptance as an American writer.

Connect with Katherine:

Robert Kesten, Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, shares a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation that spans civil rights, global activism, the importance of preserving history, and his lifelong commitment to justice. From organizing a fundraising event as a child in response to Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination to producing a Holocaust documentary and leading initiatives in human rights education, Robert’s journey reflects the intersection of compassion, curiosity, and courageous leadership. His reflections on history, identity, and the enduring struggle for human dignity are as timely as ever.

Interview recorded in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Key Takeaways:

• Robert Kesten is the Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, which preserves and shares LGBTQ history and culture.
• His activism began in childhood after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., when he organized a fundraiser to help send kids to camp.
• Robert emphasizes the importance of telling full, interconnected histories—likening it to a dense tapestry where every thread matters.
• He has worked across diverse causes: LGBTQ+ rights, civil rights, Holocaust remembrance, and international human rights education.
• Kesten produced a documentary on the Holocaust for March of the Living, focusing on emotional impact over dialogue.
• His view of compassion is putting the greater good above oneself, and his guiding philosophy is to leave the world better than he found it.
• Despite decades of global work, he describes his life as "rewarding" rather than "successful"—a reflection on the value of impact over recognition.

Robert Kesten’s Bio:

Kesten is president and CEO of Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library based in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The nonprofit organization is one of the largest of its kind in the LGBTQ+ world and one of the oldest, having been started in 1973.

Prior to joining Stonewall, Kesten traveled around the world promoting acceptance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a foundational document in building a better and more stable world. Kesten conceptualized the United Nations Decade of Human Rights Education, which was approved by the General Assembly and ran from 1994-2004.

Connect with Robert:

After surviving childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, Shakina Rush chose healing—and then built a movement. In this powerful in-person conversation, recorded in Philadelphia after her nonprofit’s second annual housing fair, Shakina shares how her lived experiences shaped She Is U, an organization that supports individuals impacted by abuse through housing, mental health, scholarships, and more. Her story is one of radical forgiveness, unshakable faith, and personal responsibility—and her presence is as healing as her work.

Interview recorded in Upper Darby, PA.

Key Takeaways:

• She Is U is a nonprofit founded by Shakina Rush that offers resources for individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual abuse, and assault
• Her own lived experiences—beginning with childhood trauma and continuing into young adulthood—fueled the mission behind the organization
• Shakina emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, including forgiving herself, as a turning point in her healing journey
• Her healing deepened after a spiritual awakening when she first heard God’s voice clearly in her early 20s
• The organization’s unique programs include family bonding weekends, a scholarship fund, bereavement support, and even donating vehicles to survivors
• Shakina believes that domestic violence is a symptom of deeper, often unaddressed trauma
• She is planning new initiatives like Walk in My Shoes, a Converse-sponsored empathy-building experience
• Compassion, to her, means offering grace and practical support—filling the gap without judgment

Shakina Rush’s Bio:

My name is Shakina Rush, and I am an Overcomer! I’ve overcome childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence that started when I was just a preteen and followed me into my young adult years, and sexual assault as a grown woman. Every time I open my mouth and tell my story, I feel another layer of freedom. I don’t get tired of sharing—it’s part of my healing. A part of me that was once trapped in guilt, fear, and shame gets released every single time.

We Overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and through the Word of our Testimony. That’s not just a scripture to me, it’s my life. I’ve made the choice to forgive. I forgive myself. I forgive those who hurt me. I forgive the ones who let me down, who left me when I needed them most. I release it all, and I walk forward in truth, purpose, and peace.

Connect with Shakina:

When Richard Hsung promised his dying mother he’d finish her memoir, he didn’t yet understand the weight of that vow—or the decade-long journey it would set in motion. In this episode, Richard shares his deeply personal path of honoring his mother’s extraordinary life as an adopted child of American missionaries in pre-Communist China, a refugee from revolution, and a resilient physician under Mao. Together, we explore identity, inheritance, immigration, and what it means to find yourself between cultures while keeping a promise that spans generations.

Interview recorded in Madison, WI.

Key Takeaways:

• Richard’s mother, Jean Tren-Hwa Perkins, was adopted by American missionaries after surviving the 1931 Yangtze River Flood
• Her extraordinary life took her across China, India, and the U.S. during wartime and political upheaval
• She was separated from her adoptive parents for decades after the Communist revolution
• Despite being trapped in China, she became a surgeon and survived persecution with the help of unlikely allies
• Richard immigrated to the U.S. at 14, leaving behind his father and sister and navigating identity loss and cultural dislocation
• He spent nearly 10 years completing his mother’s memoir as a redemptive act of healing and honoring her legacy
• Richard reflects on the “third culture” experience—belonging fully to neither country but shaped deeply by both
• Compassion, for Richard, starts with listening deeply and without judgment

Richard Hsung’s Bio:

Dr. Katrina Nguyen was just 14 months old when her family fled Vietnam by boat during the Fall of Saigon, a journey marked by near-death experiences and unimaginable courage. Now a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, bestselling author, and founder of the nonprofit Faithful-2-Fitness, she channels that legacy of resilience into helping families fight childhood obesity and build healthier futures. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nguyen shares her refugee story, her path to medicine, and why compassion, gratitude, and generosity remain at the heart of everything she does.

Interview recorded in Loves Park, Illinois.

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Nguyen’s family escaped Communist Vietnam by boat in 1975, surviving multiple near-death experiences
• Her upbringing as one of 10 children shaped her resilience and gratitude
• She founded Faithful-2-Fitness to provide free health education and lifestyle tools to underserved families
• Cultural context and compassion are essential in addressing childhood obesity
• Her Catholic faith deeply informs her work in medicine, service, and philanthropy
• Writing Live to Give and other books helped her process grief and inspire generosity
• Small acts of compassion can spark long-term transformation—personally and societally

Dr. Katrina Nguyen's Bio:

Dr. Katrina Nguyen is a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, a two-time best-selling author, and founder of Faithful-2-Fitness, a nonprofit to fight childhood obesity. 

She was just 14 months old when her family escaped by boat from Communist Vietnam in April 1975 after the Fall of Saigon. She nearly died twice during her journey to freedom and the American Dream. 

She is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford. She has shared her expertise via EWTN Global Catholic Network, YMCA podcast, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Her Christian faith drives her to serve others. She established charity funds with Raymond James and Northwestern Mutual. Her nonprofit's sponsors include Chick-fil-A and Fleet Feet.

Dr. Nguyen lives in Illinois with her husband Dr. Deladisma. She enjoys being a dog mom, gardening and traveling.

Connect with Katrina:

In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Ralph Velasco, a seasoned travel photographer and founder of small group travel experiences. Raised in suburban Chicago, Ralph takes us through his winding career path—from restaurants and real estate to his true calling behind the camera and on the road. We explore how travel can be a powerful vehicle for connection and self-discovery, and how storytelling brings those experiences to life. Whether you're a budding traveler or someone navigating life's turning points, this conversation offers a compelling look at resilience, reinvention, and the beauty of the journey.

📍Interview recorded in Rockford, Illinois

Key Takeaways:

• Personal experiences with domestic violence and the power of storytelling
• The significance of listening with intention
• Ralph Velasco's journey from suburban Chicago to travel photography
• Early influences and formative travel experiences
• Career transitions from restaurant ownership to real estate and photography
• The impact of the financial crisis on career decisions
• The benefits of small group travel experiences
• The appeal of travel for single women seeking community and security
• The evolving nature of career paths and personal growth
• Favorite travel destinations and considerations for group travel logistics

Ralph Velasco’s Bio:

Since 2008 (16+ years) Ralph Velasco has been a full-time travel photographer and international tour organizer, having created and led over 120 highly-rated international tours in well over 30 countries on 7 continents (plus over 100 domestic tours in the U.S.)

When not traveling, Ralph is based in Chicago. However, he's been location-independent for 11+ years and traditionally spends anywhere from 8 - 9 months on the road internationally scouting and leading his tours.

Ralph has authored several books on travel photography, and he just combined his most recent books into a 3-in-1 book bundle titled The Mindful & Intentional Traveler

In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Vincent Thompson, longtime journalist and current Communications Director for the President of Philadelphia City Council. Born and raised in Philly, Vincent shares how his curiosity led him from a school newspaper to national political conventions and eventually into public service. We discuss the power of local government, how to engage with your city, and why compassion still matters in civic life. Whether you're a Philly native or just want to better understand how your community works, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired.

Interview recorded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Key Takeaways:

• Vincent Thompson is the Communications Director for Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson.
• A lifelong Philadelphian, he grew up in North Philly and Germantown, and attended Temple University and Marietta College.
• He began his career in journalism, covering politics for outlets like the Philadelphia Tribune and WURD Radio.
• Vincent has hosted City Council radio sessions and emphasized the importance of knowing your district councilmember.
• He explains the structure of local government and why citizens should be more engaged at the city level.
• He encourages people to “be curious, not judgmental” and offers a human-centered view of government service.
• Vincent shares personal stories—from receiving a letter from his journalism idol to the importance of leading with kindness in leadership.
• A passionate advocate for Philadelphia, he invites visitors to see City Hall, the city’s diverse neighborhoods, and yes—try the cheesesteaks (but he’s not picking favorites).

Vincent Thompson’s Bio:

Vincent Thompson is the Director of Communications for Philadelphia (Pa) City Council and Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson. 

In his more than 30 year career in media and government, he has served as a Chief of Staff for the late Philadelphia City Councilman Juan Ramos, spokesperson for two past School District of Philadelphia Superintendents, former President of the Philadelphia Black Public Relations Society, former Vice President/Broadcast for the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and has covered Republican and Democratic National Conventions starting with the 1988 Republican National Convention. 

Mr. Thompson has won numerous awards in his career for his work in journalism, public relations and community service. In 2018, he received PABJ’s Lifetime Achievement Award. 

In 2017, he was named Politics and Government Reporter of the Year by the Pen & Pencil Club of Philadelphia, the nation’s oldest press club in daily operation. 

He has been named one of Philadelphia’s Most Influential African-Americans by the Philadelphia Tribune newspaper and has been a winner of the National Education Association’s Excellence in Broadcasting Award.

Connect with Vincent:

Twitter @Mediamancomm

Instagram: @phillymediamancomm

#TheHumanExperiencePodcast

Follow Along:

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my grandmother—my last living grandparent—to capture her incredible journey through life. From her Italian immigrant roots in coal-mining Pennsylvania to her years as a talented young musician and her marriage to my grandfather, a brilliant physicist and Holocaust survivor, this conversation uncovers a century’s worth of history, resilience, and love. These are the kinds of stories that often go untold—but deserve to be remembered.

Key Takeaways:
Her father was one of 10 children in a coal-mining family in Pittston, PA, and the only one to attend seminary.

Despite growing up in humble beginnings, many of her uncles went on to college and professional careers, breaking generational cycles.

Her mother’s family hailed from Naples, Italy, and she grew up immersed in Italian traditions and strong family ties.

Music played a huge role in her youth—she became the pianist for her school assemblies and eventually played in the All-City Orchestra in Philadelphia.

She lived through World War II and vividly recalls the day Pearl Harbor was bombed—her younger brother’s birthday.

She later married Opa (Laszlo), a Hungarian immigrant, physicist, and survivor of religious persecution, whose brilliance and humility left a lasting mark on the family.

Personal memories, from roller-skating mishaps to Epcot visits and feeding the dogs behind Grandma’s back, make this story uniquely intimate.

#TheHumanExperiencePodcast

After years of identifying solely as a teacher, Kim faced an identity crisis when burnout forced her to leave the profession. What followed was a deeply personal journey through therapy, self-discovery, and alternative healing modalities. In this episode, she shares the emotional rollercoaster of redefining herself, uncovering childhood trauma, and eventually finding relief through holistic practices like Reiki, yoga, meditation, and energy healing.
Now a certified holistic practitioner, Kim helps others navigate their own healing journeys. She joins host Jennifer Peterkin to discuss the reality of burnout, the limitations of traditional therapy, and the power of exploring alternative healing methods.

📍 This episode was recorded in Chadds Ford, PA

Key Takeaways:
Kim’s journey from teacher burnout to holistic healing

The emotional toll of losing an identity tied to career success

How traditional therapy helped—but also left gaps in her healing

The role of yoga, meditation, Reiki, and energy work in her transformation

The importance of trusting your intuition when seeking help

How Kim now helps others on their own healing and self-discovery journeys

#TheHumanExperiencePodcast #HealingJourney #EnergyHealing #MindBodyWellness #OvercomingBurnout #HolisticHealing

Two years ago, The Human Experience went live—a deeply personal and transformative journey of storytelling, connection, and vulnerability. Host Jennifer Peterkin reflects on what she has learned, the intentionality behind in-person interviews, and why proximity and presence matter in capturing human stories.

She also shares an important update about the future of the podcast and what it means to "hold things loosely" when life demands change. Finally, an important announcement: for the foreseeable future, new guest interviews will now be released every other week instead of weekly. This shift allows Jennifer to continue creating meaningful conversations while ensuring the podcast remains a labor of love rather than obligation.

Tune in to hear the full story behind this decision and what’s next for The Human Experience.

🎧 Listen now

What if life’s coincidences weren’t random, but signs guiding you toward your true purpose?
In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer sits down with Sophia, whose remarkable journey has taken her from working with Buckminster Fuller in architecture to running a couture fashion business, and ultimately helping survivors of human trafficking as a therapist.
Sophia shares the miraculous moments that shaped her path, the science of synchronicity, and why paying attention to divine nudges can lead to unexpected yet deeply fulfilling opportunities. She also discusses how her spiritual awakening, as detailed in her books The Divine Language of Coincidence and Consciousness Beyond Death, has attracted the attention of scientists studying after-death communication.
If you’ve ever questioned whether the universe is sending you signs, this conversation will inspire you to trust the process, take action, and step into the life you were meant to live.

Key Takeaways:
How to Recognize a Meaningful Coincidence – The difference between random chance and a life-altering synchronicity.
Turning Coincidences into Miracles – The power of taking action when the universe nudges you.
An Unconventional Path – From architecture to fashion to therapy, how Sophia’s journey unfolded in unexpected but fulfilling ways.
Helping Women Heal – The impact of her work with at-risk and formerly trafficked women through Living a Fearless Life and the Salvation Army.
The Science of Miracles – Why researchers are studying after-death communication and synchronicity, and how Sophia’s experiences are shaping the conversation.
Faith, Gratitude, and Trusting the Process – How embracing the unknown can lead to personal transformation and deeper fulfillment.
🎧 Listen now to hear Sophia’s extraordinary story and learn how to start recognizing and acting on the miracles in your own life.

In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Ethan Poetic, a self-published author, keynote speaker, and survivor of incredible adversity. Ethan shares his journey of growing up in a single-parent household, taking on responsibilities beyond his years, and surviving a near-fatal car accident that left him with a 99% chance of death. Through resilience, self-reflection, and a commitment to changing his narrative, Ethan has turned his pain into purpose—writing a book, mentoring young people, and advocating for mental health. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance and the impact of choosing to grow despite life's challenges.
📍 This episode was recorded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Key Takeaways
Adversity Doesn't Define You – Despite growing up in a challenging environment and taking on adult responsibilities as a child, Ethan found ways to rise above his circumstances.
Resilience After Tragedy – After surviving a devastating car accident with life-threatening injuries, Ethan fought through recovery and used his experience to inspire others.
Breaking Generational Cycles – Recognizing the impact of unhealed trauma, Ethan made the decision to break the cycle and redefine his future.
The Power of Storytelling – Writing his book allowed Ethan to reclaim his story, find healing, and connect with others facing similar struggles.
Mentorship and Community Matter – Positive role models helped Ethan along the way, and now he pays it forward by mentoring young people and advocating for personal growth.
Self-Publishing for Creative Control – Ethan turned down traditional publishing deals to maintain ownership of his story and create opportunities on his own terms.
Finding Purpose Through Pain – What could have been a life-ending event became the catalyst for Ethan’s mission: to help others, advocate for resilience, and create a lasting legacy of empowerment.

Show Notes:
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about drug use, abuse, and neglect. Please proceed with care.

Two years after his first appearance on the podcast, Joe returns to share the incredible and often painful journey of adopting his niece and nephew. In this raw and honest conversation, he details the struggles of navigating a deeply flawed foster care system, the emotional toll of parenting children with trauma, and the ongoing challenges of healing as a family.
From dealing with corrupt social workers to searching for the children's fugitive parents, Joe takes us inside the reality of stepping up when no one else would. Now, with the adoption finalized, he and his wife continue to work through behavioral struggles, the lack of mental health resources, and the weight of carrying a story that is far from over.
Despite everything, they remain committed to giving these kids a future filled with safety, stability, and love.

📍This episode was recorded in Westchester, Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways
The System is Failing Vulnerable Kids – Despite numerous reports of abuse and neglect, authorities failed to intervene for years. When they finally did, the support promised to foster families was unreliable or nonexistent.

The Adoption Process Was a Bureaucratic Nightmare – Joe and his wife faced months of delays, missing paperwork, and even attempted theft from caseworkers.

The Reality of Parenting Children with Trauma – From severe emotional outbursts to difficulties with social skills, the long road to healing requires constant patience, structure, and therapy.

What Needs to Change – Joe calls for better vetting of social workers, more support for foster families, and real consequences for those who neglect and abuse children—including within the system itself.

Would He Do It Again? – Joe doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles but remains firm in his commitment to his family.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline (US)
The Crisis Hotline (US)

Next week, we’ll be bringing Joe, a former guest, back to the podcast to continue sharing more of his story. In the meantime, please enjoy listening to his first appearance on The Human Experience Podcast.

Content Warning: In this episode we discuss domestic violence, suicide, drug addiction, and childhood abuse. Please proceed with care.

In this deeply personal and moving episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Joe, a close friend whose journey through family, trauma, and resilience takes unexpected turns. What started as a simple Ancestry.com DNA test led Joe to uncover a hidden chapter of his family history—one that brought him a sense of belonging he never knew was missing.

This conversation explores cycles of abuse, the power of compassion, and the meaning of true family. Joe shares raw and honest reflections on his past, the struggles of his childhood, and his decision to break generational trauma for the sake of his own children. He also opens up about taking in his abused and neglected niece and nephew, vowing to give them the love and stability they never had.

📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways
Family isn’t just about blood. True family consists of the people who show up, support you, and love you unconditionally.

Breaking the cycle of abuse takes intention. Joe made the decision to raise his children differently, ensuring they never experience what he did.

Small acts of kindness can save lives. A single moment of compassion can be the difference between hope and despair for someone struggling.

Addiction is a disease, but it doesn't excuse abuse. While Joe has empathy for the struggles of his niece and nephew’s parents, he refuses to let their pain continue to harm the next generation.

Finding family later in life can be healing. Meeting his newfound relatives through Ancestry.com filled a void Joe didn’t realize existed.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline (US)
The Crisis Hotline (US)

In this deeply moving episode of The Human Experience with host Jennifer Peterkin, Laurel opens up about her incredible life story filled with resilience, heartbreak, and humor. From being placed in foster care at just two years old, to experiencing multiple homes, adoption, and reconnecting with her sister and extended family, Laurel’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and healing. She reflects on the pivotal moments in her life, the emotional aftermath of her childhood trauma, and how she found herself through counseling, self-awareness, and the pursuit of authenticity.

Laurel also shares how her experiences have shaped her as a mother, her thoughts on adoption, and the complexities of overcoming societal stigmas around trauma and divorce. This conversation is raw, heartfelt, and filled with moments of profound insight.

📍This episode was recorded in Glenmoore, Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways

The impact of childhood trauma: Laurel discusses how unprocessed trauma can resurface unexpectedly and affect adult relationships and identity.

The importance of boundaries and structure: Growing up in foster care and two very different homes taught Laurel the significance of stability and boundaries.

Healing through therapy: How discovering counseling helped Laurel navigate unresolved trauma and reshape her identity.

The nuances of adoption: Laurel provides a compassionate perspective on adoption, discussing its complexities and emotional impact on adoptees.

Living authentically: Her journey to breaking free from people-pleasing, embracing vulnerability, and showing her children what strength and love look like.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with c, founder of the Greenhouse Project in Chester, Pennsylvania. John shares his incredible journey from addiction and incarceration to living out his faith through radical community-building. He unpacks the mission behind the Greenhouse Project, a ministry rooted in transforming lives by building relationships and fostering spiritual growth within his community.

John discusses how his past shaped his calling, the challenges of ministering in an underserved area, and the profound importance of reconciliation, both with others and within oneself. This episode is an uplifting reminder of the power of love, compassion, and living intentionally for the greater good.

📍This episode was recorded in Chester, Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways

The Greenhouse Concept: Like a physical greenhouse fosters growth, John believes environments rooted in love, faith, and community nurture spiritual and personal transformation.

The Power of Reconciliation: Owning past mistakes and working toward reconciliation brings healing for both individuals and relationships.

Community-Centric Ministry: Greenhouse Project programs are designed in response to the needs expressed by Chester residents, including education, recovery support, and community cleanups.

Living Love and Compassion: True compassion is about sitting with others, seeing their value, and understanding their story without judgment.

Show Notes:
In this episode of The Human Experience, we sit down with Jeny, a Romanian native and social worker, to explore her extraordinary story. Jeny shares her experiences growing up under the communist regime in Romania, witnessing the 1989 revolution, and her current work with children in need through Firm Foundations Romania (FFR). Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of Romania’s history, resilience, and transformation over the past few decades.

Jeny’s dedication to helping others, her deep faith, and her reflections on community, compassion, and change create an inspiring narrative. Join us as we delve into her unique perspective and hear about her journey from childhood to becoming an advocate for vulnerable children.

📍This episode was recorded in Romania

Key Takeaways
Life Under Communism: Jeny recalls the scarcity of food and resources, strict rules, and the community bond that adversity fostered.

The Revolution of 1989: A life-altering event that ended decades of dictatorship and brought freedom—but also chaos—to Romania.

Orphan Crisis and Reform: The stark reality of orphanages in the 1990s, the international spotlight, and the reforms that followed to create a more robust child protection system.

Fostering and Adoption: The progress in Romania's foster care and adoption systems, and the ongoing efforts to support vulnerable children.

Faith and Compassion: Jeny’s unwavering commitment to helping others and her belief in the importance of love and community in driving change.

In this heartwarming and deeply insightful episode of The Human Experience, Jennfier sits down with Markella, a psychologist specializing in the identity shifts of parenthood, to explore the evolving nature of relationships, self-discovery, and the challenges of balancing societal expectations with personal growth. From the breathtaking setting of Athens to the universal struggles of navigating life’s changes, this conversation touches on themes of motherhood, cultural identity, and embracing transformation.

📍This episode was recorded in Athens, Greece

Key Takeaways
Parenthood is a journey of constant transformation. Embrace the change and allow yourself to redefine who you are at every stage of life.

Societal pressures don't define your worth. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent, a career-driven professional, or a hybrid of both, your path is valid.

Relationships evolve. Open communication, empathy, and intentional connection are critical to maintaining healthy partnerships in parenthood.

Support systems matter. Rebuilding the "village" concept can help mothers and fathers navigate the challenges of raising children while maintaining their individuality.

Welcome to a special recap episode of The Human Experience Podcast! In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin takes us on a journey through some of the most compelling and impactful moments from past conversations. Featuring highlights from some incredible guest interviews, Jennifer weaves these moments together with her own insights, reflecting on recurring themes and setting the stage for exciting conversations to come.

December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.

In this deeply moving and inspirational episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Anne Byler, the founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels. Anne opens up about her journey through unimaginable trauma, spiritual confusion, and eventual redemption. With raw honesty, she shares her story of profound loss, spiritual abuse, and the path to creating a global brand out of a desire to support her family and community.

📍This episode was recorded in Texas

Key Takeaways
"Life is hard, but God is good." Anne reflects on the theological shift that allowed her to reconcile her experiences with her faith.

Secrets hold you captive. Freedom begins when you find the courage to share your story.

Redemption is complete. Anne’s journey from despair to building a globally recognized business is proof that healing and purpose can arise from pain.

Compassion requires action. Anne’s belief in noticing others and acting on their needs has been a cornerstone of her life and business philosophy.

In this inspiring episode of The Human Experience podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Susan, who shares an incredible story rooted in courage, resilience, and the enduring power of love. This episode reflects on Susan’s father’s harrowing experience as a World War II pilot and the profound legacy he left behind. Through their conversation, Jennifer and Susan explore themes of survival, generational impact, and the transformative power of storytelling to preserve memories and values for future generations.

📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways

Courage in Adversity: Susan’s father’s story is a testament to the bravery and selflessness required in wartime, as well as the power of community in protecting and preserving life.

Generational Legacy: The love and resilience that Susan’s father embodied continue to impact her family, underscoring the importance of storytelling in preserving values.

Unconditional Love: The episode reminds us that love without conditions is one of the most valuable gifts we can pass on to others.

The Power of Forgiveness: As Susan beautifully articulates, "The unforgiver carries the weight." Her father’s lessons about forgiveness and self-reflection are profound reminders of how we can release pain and grow.