254: Healed and Restored - Elza Spaedy

This week’s guest on The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is Maria Castro, founder of Love Purse -  a nonprofit organization that is "putting love on the shoulders of women in need, one Love Purse at a time". Maria works full-time as a Regional External Affairs manager at Comcast and is also a reknowned speaker and author. Maria founded Love Purse right in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, when she recognized that many women living in shelters, survivors of domestic violence, survivors of human trafficking, and more - were lacking many necessities and needed a little extra love and support.  Each purse is new and contains many necessities including feminine products, deodorant, soap, body lotion, hand sanitizer, tooth brush, tooth paste, mouth wash, lip balm, nail file, shower slippers, socks, face mask, comb, brush, full size shampoo and conditioner, face cloth, compact mirror, chocolates, mints, floss, notepad, pen, and most importantly, a note of inspiration and love.  Maria says about Love Purse, “We want each woman to know that she matters, she is respected and she is loved. And that this too shall pass. Women don't just carry their purses for fashion, they contain their most private and personal belongings. It's an essential part of their lives.” What started out as a little project of love has grown into a love revolution around the world - with other women, companies, book clubs, church groups, and others, hosting “purse parties” where they collect new purses and fill them with necessities and deliver them to women in need throughout their communities. To date, Love Purse has collected and distributed over 10,000 new purses filled with all kinds of goodies - most importantly of which is a note of love.  In this episode, you’ll hear:  Maria’s inspiring life story; About Maria’s life, upbringing and her family; How she started working for Comcast and how she started writing books and speaking; How Love Purse came to be and you’ll hear about their incredible work to show kindness, love and support to women in our communities and around the world; The powerful story of one woman (of many!) who received a Love Purse and how it transformed her life; And so much more! The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information about Maria, Love Purse, to donate, and/or to get involved in their work, please visit: https://1girlrevolution.com/MariaCastro

22 Jun 202355min

Shannon Henry, sexual assault survivor and founder of SASS GO, joins The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast this week to share her inspiring story and to talk about the incredible work SASS GO is doing to empower and protect women and girls.  Shannon is a wife, a mother, and a fearless leader - who has been described as a velvet brick with a Band-Aid in one hand and sword in the other.  She is a purposed leader who believes in uncovering the power, dignity and beauty of all women by meeting them exactly where they are with compassion and love. Shannon teaches SASS courses at the University of South Carolina as an adjunct professor in the College of Education and around the world.  When Shannon was 16 years old, she was sexually assaulted. Shannon didn’t tell anyone about what happened to her for years. Shannon learned the SASS curriculum and it was a life-changer for her - and at that moment, she pledged that she would devote her life to sharing the power of SASS and empower others through it. Shortly thereafter, she created SASS Defense and embarked on a journey to empower as many women and girls as possible through SASS.  Under her leadership, Shannon and a team of instructors have positively impacted the lives of thousands of women and girls in universities, the military, churches, schools, community centers, and law enforcement.  Despite this incredible progress, Shannon and her team recognized a gap between ongoing global need and their reach.  They understood that without resources, it would be nearly impossible to fill this gap.  Thus with guidance from a mentor, her husband and thoughtful consideration and prayer, Shannon moved forward with taking the heart and soul of SASS and placing it inside the organizational framework of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to catapult the impact SASS was having on thousands into millions, regardless of ability to pay, life circumstances, or geographical location.  She elected to name the propeller SASS GO as it takes the power and purpose of SASS GO to the need, which is everywhere.   SASS GO is on a mission to eradicate assault, abuse, and trafficking against women and girls globally through prevention education, self defense training, and emergent case consulting.  This dedicated team believes all women deserve to learn the skills needed to save their own lives.  The women and girls we serve are as diverse in age, background, and experience as the world they inhabit with nearly 60% receiving our services for a free or reduced cost.   Shannon joins The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share her inspiring life story and to talk about the incredible, world-changing work of SASS GO.  In this episode, you’ll hear:  Shannon’s inspiring life story; Her survivor story and how self-defense classes and the SASS curriculum changed her life; How she decided to dedicate her life to empowering other women and girls through self-defense and the SASS curriculum; How SASS GO came to be and about their incredible work to save lives and empower women and girls; Stories of survivors and how women and girls have been empowered through SASS GO; And so much more! The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information about Shannon, SASS GO, to donate, and/or to get involved in their work, please visit: https://1girlrevolution.com/shannonhenry

15 Jun 20231h 14min

On this week’s episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, the amazing Ruby Kate Chitsey, founder of Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents, is back! We had Ruby on the podcast three years ago (listen to episode #67) and we are so excited to have her back on The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to fill us in on what’s been happening with Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents and to talk about their incredible work, and her new book -  Kindness Is My Hobby: How to Change the World Right Where You Are. Ruby started Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents when she was 10-years-old, when she decided to start asking seniors living in the nursing home that her mom was working at - what three things they would wish for, if they had three wishes. What started as her own little passion project, has grown to serve tens of thousands of seniors across the country - and around the world. Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that strives to bring joy to the lives of the 1.5 million elders living in America’s nursing homes, most notably the 975,000 residents subsisting on a government stipend as low as $40 per month.  Ruby comes back on The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share her own life story and to talk about the incredible work of Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents.  In this episode, you’ll hear:  Ruby’s inspiring life story; The story of what made her decide to start granting wishes to local seniors and what led her to start Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents; About the incredible work that Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents is doing to change the world; Stories about the seniors and wishes that Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents has granted; About Ruby’s new book; And so much more! The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information about Ruby, Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents, to donate, and/or to get involved in their work, please visit: https://1girlrevolution.com/rubykatechitsey Listen to Ruby’s past episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast - episode #67 here: https://1girlrevolution.com/ruby/

8 Jun 202336min

This week’s episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast features the two amazing founders of Extra Lucky Moms, Jess Quarello and Taryn Lagonigro. Extra Lucky Mom’s is an organization that celebrates children with Down syndrome, autism, Jordan’s Syndrome, trisomies, heart conditions, and many more through their blog, social media platforms, in-person events and brand and nonprofit partnerships.  Jess and Taryn, who both welcomed children with Down syndrome in 2020, found immediate support and connection from the Down syndrome community after welcoming their daughters, but kept encountering mothers of children with other disabilities who were missing that same level of community. Jess and Taryn connected through an online moms platform and quickly became friends and shortly after that, they decided to tap into their backgrounds in non-profit, marketing, and business, and they founded Extra Lucky Moms in May 2021.  Extra Lucky Moms is a community of love and support for mothers with children with Down syndrome and other differences and disabilities. And the mission of Extra Lucky Moms goes far  beyond providing community and support. Jess and Taryn and the Extra Lucky Moms community aim to challenge societal stereotypes and promote inclusivity by highlighting the abilities and achievements of individuals with Down syndrome and other differences and disabilities.  Jess and Taryn join The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share their inspiring stories and to talk about the incredible work of Extra Lucky Moms.  In this episode, you’ll hear: Jess and Taryn’s individual life stories; How they each found out that their daughter(s) had Down syndrome; Their individual reactions to the Down Syndrome diagnoses and how they and their friends and family responded; All about the little beacons of light, Rhea and Adeline; The story of how Jess and Taryn became friends and how they decided to start Extra Lucky Moms; About the Extra Lucky Moms community and the incredible work they’re doing; And so much more. The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on #ApplePodcasts, #Spotify, #Stitcher, #iHeartRadio, #YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information, please visit: www.1GirlRevolution.com/ExtraLuckyMoms

1 Jun 20231h 5min

On this week’s episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we’re joined by Nancy Becher, founder of Invisible Warriors - an organization dedicated to supporting those living with chronic illness, autoimmune issues, and invisible disabilities.  Nancy's own journey with invisible illness began in 2014, when her life took a drastic turn after she was hit by a car. While picking up her parents from a senior center potluck, she was struck by another attendee's car, which caused her to be thrown into a drainage ditch, resulting in twisted tendons, ligaments, and broken bones. The path to diagnosis was a long and arduous one for Nancy, involving visits to multiple doctors and enduring months of physical pain. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating condition that causes severe nerve damage. Nancy underwent numerous surgeries, received two spinal stimulators, and encountered countless medical professionals in her quest for relief from the relentless pain. Drawing on her background with a Master's in Counseling and a Ph.D. in sociology, Nancy decided to utilize her knowledge and personal experiences to create Invisible Warriors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting people living with chronic illness, autoimmune issues, and invisible disabilities. The mission of Invisible Warriors is not only to provide assistance and resources to these individuals but also to initiate dialogue with medical professionals and advocate for changes in the insurance, pharmaceutical, and travel industries. Through Invisible Warriors, Nancy aims to create a community where those living with hidden chronic and autoimmune disorders can find solace, support, and a sense of belonging. By sharing her own journey and advocating for systemic changes, Nancy is determined to make a positive impact on the lives of others who are going through similar mental and physical anguish. Nancy is an advocate, who is working towards greater awareness, understanding, and resources for individuals with invisible illnesses. Nancy Becher's resilience and determination to create a supportive community for individuals with chronic illness, autoimmune issues, and invisible disabilities are truly commendable. Through her personal experiences, academic background, and unwavering passion, she has taken on the mission of empowering others and working towards a more inclusive and compassionate society. In this episode, you’ll hear: Nancy’s inspiring life story; The story of the accident that led to her health issues and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS); How she decided to start Invisible Warriors and why their work is so important; About the people that Nancy and Invisible Warriors are helping; How you can get involved in their work if you’re living with an invisible disability or illness;  About the Silent No More Benefit Concert and how you can attend and support the event; And so much more. The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information on Nancy Becher and Invisible Warriors, please visit: www.1girlrevolution.com/InvisibleWarriors

25 Mai 202353min

Kimberly Corban, a survivor of sexual assault and one of the leading advocates for survivors, joins The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share her incredible life story and the inspiring work she is doing to advocate for other survivors.  Kimberly is a remarkable woman who has transformed her personal trauma into a powerful force for change. Her survivor’s story began in 2006, when she survived a horrific sexual assault in her college apartment. Instead of succumbing to fear and silence, Corban decided to share her story, speak up and share her name in the media, in an effort to advocate for and empower other survivors. Since then, Corban has become a renowned public speaker, using her platform to raise awareness about sexual assault and promote prevention strategies. She has delivered compelling speeches at universities, conferences, TedX, and community events, shedding light on the lasting impact of sexual violence and the importance of speaking up, bringing an end to the violence of sexual assault in our world, and supporting and advocating for survivors. Her courage in sharing her own experience has empowered so many other women to speak up, share their stories, and seek justice - women who so often feel ignored, forgotten and unheard.  In this episode, you’ll hear: Kimberly’s inspiring life story; The story of her assault and how she decided to speak up, share her story, and advocate for others; How she is advocating for and empowering others to speak up; About her podcast with Kara Robinson Chamberlain, “Survivor’s Guide to True Crime”; Her message to other survivors and what we can do to support survivors in our lives and communities;  And so much more. The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information on Kimberly Corban and her work, please visit: www.1girlrevolution.com/kimberlycorban

17 Mai 20231h 2min

Sierra Kim is a Board-Certified nutrition specialist, Naturopathic medical student and founder of Thrive with Sierra. Sierra joins The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share her inspiring life story, the story of how her husband lost all mobility at 25 years old and how over 15+ doctors offered no real answers or solutions, and how Sierra decided to take matters into her own hands and went back to school to get her MS in nutrition to find solutions for her husband’s health.  Sierra thought outside of the box, asked questions, was innovative and creative, found answers and solutions, and ended up figuring out what worked for her husband and he has regained much of his health and mobility. It’s an incredible story! And Sierra is an inspiring example to ask questions and find differing perspectives and options.  Sierra recently made a video about her journey that went viral, with over one million views - which resonated with so many people who experienced similar situations in modern medicine. Sierra found solutions that worked for her husband and is now on a mission to help other people with chronic illnesses regain their life. She is currently in medical school and has big hopes for the future.  Sierra is an incredible woman with an inspiring story! You don’t want to miss this episode! In this episode, you’ll hear: Sierra’s life story; How she and her husband met and how on their honeymoon he began to experience health issues; The story of how Sierra’s husband lost all mobility and his health kept deteriorating, and how 15+ doctors offered little reprieve or solutions; How Sierra decided to take matters into her own hands and go back to school to get her MS in nutrition;  How Sierra’s husband has regained most of his mobility and health, and you’ll hear about the things that helped; About how Sierra is using her own experiences to help others with chronic illnesses regain their life; And so much more. For more information about Sierra and Thrive With Sierra, please visit: www.1GirlRevolution.com/sierrakim

11 Mai 202346min

Laura Stark is an athlete, a survivor, an advocate, and a board member of Women’s World on Wheels. Laura is a true inspiration to women everywhere and she joins The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast to share her incredible story of resilience, how she got involved in Women’s World on Wheels, and how their work is transforming the lives of women in wheelchairs.  In the summer of 2016, Laura was a part of a cross-country bike mission trip called “Bike & Build.” Bike & Build engages young adults in service-oriented cycling trips to raise awareness for the affordable housing cause. During her summer ride, Laura and another rider, Anne,  were hit by a distracted driver. Anne died in the accident and Laura fought for her life. Laura’s life was forever changed that day as she suffered a spinal cord injury that would leave her paralyzed and in a wheelchair. But instead of letting her injury define her, she is using her life and experience as an opportunity to build community with others and to advocate for women in wheelchairs.  With only 20% of the wheelchair community being women, there is a clear need for more resources, community,  and support for women in similar situations. Through her advocacy work, Laura has become a voice for change and she continues to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by women in wheelchairs through Women’s World on Wheels. Women’s World on Wheels provides programming, resources, and events as a catalyst for female wheelchair users’ physical, professional, and personal success.  Laura is truly an inspiration to women everywhere. You don’t want to miss this incredible episode! In this episode, you’ll hear: Laura’s inspiring life story; About the summer that changed Laura’s life - for so many reasons - and how she got involved in Bike & Build;  The story of how Laura was hit by a distracted driver and was left with a spinal cord injury and in a wheelchair; How Laura’s life changed after the accident, how she found courage and resilience, and how she found community and support; The struggles that face those in wheelchairs, specifically women; How Laura got involved in Women’s World on Wheels and about their incredible world-changing work; And so much more.  The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.  For more information about Laura and Women’s World on Wheels, please visit: www.1GirlRevolution.com/laurastark

4 Mai 202358min