Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter podcast

30:17

For years, I was the woman who hid behind a keyboard—writing thousands of words that no one ever saw. I convinced myself that my voice didn’t matter, or that maybe it just wasn’t “ready.” Sound familiar? In this solo episode, I open up about the long, winding road I’ve taken to find my voice—not just as a writer, but as a human being. Because voice isn’t just about how we sound on the page. It’s about how we show up in the world. And sometimes, we have to lose ourselves to finally hear what’s been there all along. If you’re stuck, if you’re scared, if you’re waiting until it’s perfect—this one’s for you. Because finding your voice isn’t a destination. It’s a practice. A choice. A permission slip. And I hope this episode can be a small part of helping you write your next chapter—with truth, with clarity, and with courage. In this episode: What does it really mean to “find your voice”? Spoiler: It’s less about sound and more about self-trust. Letting go of external validation How I learned to stop waiting for someone else to approve my words before I shared them. The healing power of storytelling Why sharing your truth—even the messy parts—is where the real magic happens. Voice and vulnerability The connection between emotional honesty and authentic writing. This podcast as my proof of process How each episode I record is an act of reclaiming my voice—and an invitation for you to do the same. Ready to embrace your own messy, beautiful story? Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 10 From Isolation to Expression: The Journey to Finding Your Voice with Tina Djuretic 49:07

6 days ago49:07

49:07

Writing can feel like a lonely pursuit—but finding your voice is about more than just words on a page. It’s about stepping out of isolation, embracing your story, and daring to share it with the world. In this episode of Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , I sit down with writer and poet Tina Djuretic to explore what it really means to find your voice as a writer. Tina’s journey hasn’t been linear—like many of us, she’s wrestled with self-doubt, creative blocks, and the fear of being truly seen. But through poetry and storytelling, she’s carved a path from isolation to authentic self-expression. If you’ve ever struggled to translate your emotions into words or felt like your writing didn’t matter, this conversation is for you. Highlights from our conversation: Breaking Free from Creative Isolation How Tina moved from writing in solitude to sharing her work with the world—and how you can do the same. The Intersection of Poetry and Identity Why poetry became a powerful tool for self-discovery and emotional healing in Tina’s life. Overcoming the Fear of Visibility The inner battles writers face when putting their work out there, and how to push past the fear of being seen. Turning Personal Experience into Art How Tina channels personal struggles into creative expression, and why vulnerability is a writer’s greatest strength. The Power of Community in Writing Why finding a writing community can be a game-changer, and how connection fuels creativity. Tina’s journey is a testament to the fact that your voice matters—and that sharing your story is an act of courage. Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation that might just be the push you need to step into your own creative expression.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 09: Overcoming Overwhelm: Guide to Turning Overwhelm into Opportunity Corrie LoGiudice 34:47

12 days ago34:47

34:47

Overwhelm can be one of the biggest roadblocks in a writer’s journey—stopping us from finishing the book, sending the pitch, or even sitting down to write. But what if overwhelm wasn’t a dead end? What if it was actually a tool, guiding us toward our next chapter? In this episode, I sit down with Corrie LoGiudice, a speaker, entrepreneur, and coach whose Overwhelm Culprits framework has helped countless people move from stress to success. Her journey—from navigating personal loss to redefining her career—offers invaluable lessons for writers struggling with self-doubt, time constraints, and creative burnout. Writing is about more than just putting words on a page—it’s about mindset, resilience, and learning to push past the fear of getting it wrong. Whether you’re stuck in perfectionism, battling imposter syndrome, or simply unsure how to balance your writing with the rest of life, this conversation will help you move forward. In this episode, we discuss: The Writer’s Overwhelm – Identifying the hidden culprits that stop us from writing and finishing our projects. Finding Clarity in Your Creative Work – Why understanding why you write is just as important as what you write. Confidence & Community – How imposter syndrome and lack of support can hold you back—and what to do about it. Setting Boundaries for Creativity – Making space for your writing without guilt, even in the midst of a busy life. Taking the Next Step – Simple, actionable strategies to move from overwhelm to momentum in your writing journey. Your next chapter is waiting to be written. Let’s turn the page together. Ready to embrace your own messy, beautiful story? Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 08: Reclaiming Power: How Resilience Transforms Trauma into Strength with Darla Radilla 43:22

20 days ago43:22

43:22

What happens when life hands you a story you never wanted to write? How do you reclaim the narrative and turn the hardest chapters of your life into something meaningful? This week on Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , I sit down with Darla Radilla—a certified somatic trauma-informed coach, relationship expert, and podcaster—who turned her experience of surviving narcissistic abuse into a mission to help others rewrite their lives. Darla shares how she went from losing everything—her home, her finances, and her sense of self—to taking back control of her story. We dive into the power of somatic healing, why trauma lives in the body, and how understanding our nervous system can help us move forward. If fear, doubt, or past wounds have kept you from writing your next chapter—whether in life or on the page—this conversation will remind you that your story isn’t over. Episode Highlights: Rewriting Rock Bottom – The moment Darla decided to take back her story instead of letting trauma define her. The Body Holds the Story – Understanding how past pain gets stored in our nervous system—and how to release it. From Survival to Strength – Using resilience as a tool to step into a new version of yourself. Turning the Page on Trauma – Practical techniques for processing emotions and moving forward with clarity. Boundaries, Healing, and Self-Worth – How setting boundaries is key to finishing your next chapter, both in writing and in life. Because every great story has moments of struggle—but it’s how we move forward that defines the ending. Connect with Darla here: Website: https://www.highvaluewoman.info Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550835718631 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highvaluewoman7/…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 07 Life in the Second Act with Pat Black-Gould 41:24

27 days ago41:24

41:24

Have you ever felt like life closed a door on your dreams? What if that wasn’t an ending, but an invitation to turn the page? In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Pat Black-Gould—award-winning author, clinical psychologist, and former theatre director—who proves that reinvention isn’t just possible, but powerful. Pat’s journey weaves through the bright lights of theatre, the challenges of single motherhood, and the deeply human work of helping veterans heal. After years of dedicating herself to psychology, she found her way back to her first love—writing—and is now telling stories that honour resilience, compassion, and inclusion. This conversation is a testament to the fact that no matter where life has taken you, your story isn’t over. There’s always another chapter waiting to be written. Highlights from this Episode: ✨ From Theatre to Therapy – How Pat transitioned from the stage to psychology, and what both worlds taught her about human resilience. 🔥 Overcoming Life’s Crossroads – Navigating divorce, single parenthood, and the loss of a loved one while pursuing a new career path. 📖 The Healing Power of Storytelling – Why Pat returned to writing and how her books are amplifying voices from history and personal experience. 💡 Lessons from Vietnam Veterans – What working with veterans taught Pat about trauma, healing, and the stories that need to be told. 💫 It’s Never Too Late to Begin Again – Embracing reinvention in your 40s, 50s, or even 60s, and finding purpose in life’s second act. Tune in and be inspired to pick up the pen, turn the page, and write the next chapter of your life. 🔗 Find Pat’s books and connect with her at patblackgould.com If you’ve ever felt drained, uninspired, or afraid to step away from what’s no longer serving you, this episode is for you. Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 06 : No More Permission Slips with Steph Essary 31:22

5 weeks ago31:22

31:22

What if the only thing standing between you and the life you want is the belief that you need someone else's permission? For years, I let fear, self-doubt, and the need for external validation keep me from sharing my writing. I told myself that if I were really meant to be a writer, someone would have told me. I waited for permission—until I realized no one was coming to give it to me. In this episode, I share my journey from waiting on approval to reclaiming my own voice. We’ll talk about how the fear of failure, the weight of childhood expectations, and the pressure to “earn” creative freedom can hold us back—and what happens when we decide to move forward anyway. Because the truth is, your story isn’t over. You don’t need permission to begin. Highlights from this episode: The Illusion of Validation – Why seeking approval is a moving target that keeps us stuck. Dreams Don’t Need Permission – If a dream is in you, it’s there for a reason. Here’s why you should trust it. Fear Disguised as Logic – How self-doubt shows up as “rational” excuses—and how to see through them. Progress Over Perfection – Why waiting for the perfect moment means never starting at all. Write Your Own Permission Slip – A challenge to claim your creative space—on your own terms. If you’ve ever felt like you’re waiting for a sign, consider this episode your wake-up call. Let’s stop waiting and start writing the next chapter—together. Tune in now.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 05 Turning Pain into Purpose with Loren Cellentani 49:07

6 weeks ago49:07

49:07

What if the pain you’ve endured wasn’t an ending, but the beginning of something greater? In this episode of Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , we explore how hardship can be transformed into purpose. Loren Cellentani, a somatic success mentor and host of The Sovereign Self Show , shares how anxiety, burnout, and health struggles forced her to reimagine her life. Through somatic healing and spiritual mastery, she not only found her way forward but created a path for others to do the same. Loren’s story is a testament to the power of listening—to our bodies, our emotions, and the stories we tell ourselves. Pain is often the first draft of transformation, but it’s up to us to write the next chapter. If you’ve ever felt like your struggles have held you back from creating, expressing, or stepping into your purpose, this conversation will remind you that what once felt like an ending might just be the beginning. Episode Highlights Rewriting the Narrative of Pain Loren shares how her first panic attack became a wake-up call, forcing her to confront the disconnect between the life she was living and the life she truly wanted. The Body as a Storyteller How unprocessed emotions and physical symptoms can be signposts guiding us toward healing, clarity, and creative inspiration. The Witch Wound and the Fear of Being Seen Why so many of us hesitate to share our voices and how generational fears of judgment can keep us from stepping into our truth. Transforming Struggle into Strength From personal setbacks to unexpected breakthroughs, Loren reveals how embracing discomfort can lead to the most powerful transformations. Practical Tools for Moving Forward Breathwork, movement, and daily practices to help you shift out of fear and into the confidence to write your next chapter. Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 04 Beyond Burnout: How to Reconnect with Yourself & Your Purpose with Magali Mathieu 45:08

7 weeks ago45:08

45:08

We’ve all been there—pushing ourselves to the limit, running on empty, and waking up one day wondering, Is this really the life I wanted? In this episode of Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , I sit down with Magali Mathieu, a former tech entrepreneur who found herself caught in the relentless cycle of hustle culture. After years of grinding, burnout hit her like a tidal wave, forcing her to face the reality that her body, mind, and spirit were calling for change. Magali takes us through her deeply personal journey from exhaustion to transformation—one that led her from the high-pressure startup world to embracing a life of balance, healing, and purpose. Together, we unpack the signs of burnout, why so many of us resist making changes, and how we can shift our mindset to pursue success without sacrificing ourselves in the process. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ The Silent Signs of Burnout – How to recognize the early warning signals before you hit rock bottom. 🧘‍♀️ Breaking the Cycle – Why we stay stuck in unhealthy patterns—and how to finally break free. 💡 Redefining Success on Your Terms – How Magali learned to balance ambition with well-being. 📖 Rewriting Your Story – A powerful visualization exercise to help you step into the life you truly want. 🌿 Small Shifts, Big Impact – Practical, everyday strategies to prevent burnout and reconnect with your purpose. If you’ve ever felt drained, uninspired, or afraid to step away from what’s no longer serving you, this episode is for you. Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 03: Wealth & Well-being: How Self-Worth Transforms Success with Dedee Cai 38:17

8 weeks ago38:17

38:17

In today’s episode, Stephanie welcomes Dedee Cai, founder of Fit to Profit, a holistic coaching practice that empowers entrepreneurs to align their self-worth with their net worth. Through her personal story of overcoming burnout, loss, and limiting beliefs, Dedee shares how self-care, setting boundaries, and nurturing your emotional well-being are pivotal to unlocking the life you deserve. From navigating a deep personal loss to building a thriving business, Dedee’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the importance of self-worth in achieving success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will help you get unstuck and find purpose in your own challenges. Discussion Highlights: The Breaking Point: A Life Reimagined Dedee shares her personal turning point—losing her best friend and hitting burnout—leading her to a deeper path of self-healing and coaching. The Power of Physical and Emotional Health How Dedee’s journey into fitness and mindfulness became the foundation for both her personal transformation and business success. Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs Around Money Understanding how self-worth directly impacts financial success, and why entrepreneurs must overcome feelings of unworthiness to thrive. The Role of Boundaries in Personal and Professional Growth How setting boundaries is essential for maintaining energy and focus, both in life and business, and practical tips for creating non-negotiable routines. From Pain to Purpose: Navigating Challenges Dedee discusses how every obstacle is an opportunity to grow and how embracing challenges can help uncover your true purpose. Ready to embrace your own messy, beautiful story? Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 1: The Courage to Begin Again 30:46

9 weeks ago30:46

30:46

Have you ever felt like you've missed your moment? That your dreams belong to a version of yourself that no longer exists? In this premiere episode of Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , I'm inviting you into my own journey—one filled with detours, self-doubt, and a creative spark that refused to go out. For over four decades, I wrote in private, convinced my stories weren’t worth sharing. But life has a way of pulling us back to the things that matter most. Through unexpected challenges, personal reinvention, and a move that reset my entire life, I rediscovered my passion for storytelling. Now, I’m stepping out of the shadows, embracing the uncertainty, and finally sharing the stories that have been waiting to be told. If you’ve ever put a dream on hold—whether for a season or for a lifetime—this episode is for you. Let’s talk about fear, imposter syndrome, and the courage it takes to pick up the pen and start again. Because no matter how long it’s been, your story isn’t over. Highlights from this episode: The Weight of Unfinished Dreams How fear and self-doubt kept me from embracing my passion for writing—and why I finally decided to change that. Reinvention and Resilience From real estate to podcasting to becoming an author, the twists and turns that led me here. The Life Reset I Didn’t See Coming How an unexpected move to San Diego helped me reconnect with my creative self. Trusting the Story You’re Meant to Tell Why the stories inside us refuse to stay silent—and how I’m learning to let mine take center stage. A New Beginning Why I started Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter and what you can expect in the episodes ahead. So grab a coffee, settle in, and start this new chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Episode 2: Embrace the Mess with Anne Lepelaars, 49:18

9 weeks ago49:18

49:18

Welcome to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter . In this episode, we dive headfirst into the beauty of imperfection with Anne Lepelaars, a somatic trauma therapist whose journey from debilitating panic attacks to guiding others through life's most turbulent challenges is nothing short of inspiring. Together, Anne and I explore how our "mess" isn’t something to hide but a treasure trove of growth, transformation, and self-discovery. From surviving her first panic attack at 16 to working in conflict zones like Afghanistan, Anne shares how saying "yes" to life’s invitations has transformed her path—and how it can do the same for you. Highlights from this episode: Panic as a Teacher Discover how Anne reframed her debilitating panic attacks into powerful signals of self-awareness and resilience. Say Yes to the Mess Learn how accepting life’s chaos can open doors to unexpected healing and purpose. The Wisdom of the Body Why tuning into your physical sensations is a crucial step in recognizing and responding to emotional trauma. Healing in Action How Anne’s work with women and children in war-torn areas sheds light on the power of human resilience. From Fixing to Feeling Shift from trying to “fix” yourself to embracing every part of who you are—messiness and all. Ready to embrace your own messy, beautiful story? Tune in now, subscribe to Unfinished Stories: The Next Chapter , and share this episode with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s continue writing our next chapter—together.…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Unfinished Stories Presents : The Writer's Room 0:52

14 weeks ago0:52

0:52

Join host Stephanie Essary for a special monthly episode of Unfinished Stories: Next Chapter . Each month, we bring together an inspiring panel of writers, creatives, and individuals navigating personal and professional transformations. Alongside mental health professionals, wellness experts, and industry insiders, we explore what it means to reclaim your story, rewrite your narrative, and embrace your next pivotal moment. Whether you're healing, creating, or reimagining your path, The Writers Room delivers practical advice and real-life stories to guide you forward with intention. Packed with thought-provoking discussions, this series is a powerful reminder that no matter how unfinished or messy your story feels, you hold the pen. Don’t miss this month’s panel—subscribe now to Unfinished Stories: Next Chapter on your favorite podcast platform and join us in The Writers Room .…

Unfinished Stories : The Next Chapter

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Welcome to Unfinished Stories : Next Chapter 1:05

14 weeks ago1:05