My Story - Faith, Recovery, and Redemption with Don Matis Jr. (Part 1)
Chapter Markers
0:01 Voices for Voices® Recovery Journey
8:40 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Faith
20:51 Jester for Jesus and Stoned on Happiness
26:26 Uplifting Voices Organization With Don

What if you could turn your life around after 17 years of addiction? Join us as we sit down with Don Matis Jr., a man who has not only triumphed over alcoholism and drug addiction but now stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Don takes us through his painful yet transformative journey, sharing deeply personal moments including jail time, divorce, and the loss of custody of his child. He opens up about the pivotal moment in Texas that led to a spiritual awakening and ultimately transformed his life, offering invaluable insights into the continuous process of recovery and finding happiness beyond substances.

Through a series of candid reflections, Don discusses the complexities of relationships strained by addiction and the profound impact it h

My Story - Faith, Recovery, and Redemption with Don Matis, Jr. (Part 1) | Episode 140

My Story - Faith, Recovery, and Redemption with Don Matis, Jr. (Part 2)

Chapter Markers
0:01 Building Personal Brand and Staying Authentic
9:10 Healing Through Listening and Acceptance
12:51 Seeking Recovery and Spreading Blessings
17:43 Finding Faith and Sharing Recovery

What if the path to an authentic personal brand starts with embracing your vulnerabilities? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Don Matis Jr., who shares his incredible 38-year journey of sobriety and the silent suffering that often accompanies active recovery. Don opens up about the power of turning to faith and spiritual guidance, the importance of humility, and learning to accept constructive criticism. Discover how staying true to oneself, despite societal pressures, can lead to genuine personal and professional growth.

Ever felt like an imposter in your own life? We talk about the unexpected anxiety that can strike when speaking to large groups, even with a supportive network. From imposter syndrome to self-acceptance, we high

My Story - Faith, Recovery, and Redemption with Don Matis, Jr. (Part 2) | Episode 141

My Story - Overcoming Challenges Through Artistic Expression with Jen and Mark

Chapter Markers
0:05 Hearts for Music
16:12 Musical Opportunities and Inspiring Moments 

Can you imagine a world where nonverbal communication transcends barriers and opens new opportunities for those with special needs? In this heartwarming episode of Voices for Voices, we welcome Mark and Jen to share their extraordinary experiences. Mark's journey with the Hearts for Music Special Needs Orchestra is nothing short of inspiring. Despite being nonverbal, Mark excels in playing music, skiing, cycling, and even learning new languages like Danish and Italian. Together with Jen, they shed light on the importance of recognizing the full potential of individuals with special needs, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down stigmas that society often holds.

We also spotlight the incredible work of Kitrael Chin, founder of Hearts for Music. Through various impactful events, including performances at the Peyton Manning event and the Mis

My Story - Overcoming Challenges Through Artistic Expression with Jen and Mark | Episode 142

Unveiling Olympic Medals: History, Controversies, and Athlete Mental Health

Chapter Markers
0:05 The Mental Health Impact of Olympics
12:20 Olympic Controversies and Mental Health

What if the 2024 Summer Olympics medals weren't made of pure gold, silver, or bronze? Join us as we uncover the fascinating history behind the materials of Olympic medals, dating back to 1912, and delve into the innovative opening ceremonies held on the waters of Paris, France. Learn about the artistic controversy surrounding the representation of the Last Supper that led to a celebrity boycott, and gain insight into the rigorous financial and logistical challenges faced by gymnasts and other Olympic hopefuls.

We also tackle the mental health struggles of Olympic athletes, with a spotlight on US gymnast Jordan Chiles whose bronze medal was heartbreakingly revoked due to a judging error. This episode reveals the emotional rollercoaster and stress athletes endure, the critical importance of judging accuracy, and the erosion of trus

Unveiling Olympic Medals: History, Controversies, and Athlete Mental Health | Episode 143

Balancing Act: Academic Integrity and Mental Health in Higher Education (Part 1)

Chapter Markers
0:02 Higher Education and Mental Health
13:03 Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Academia
27:42 Navigating Real Experiences in Higher Education

Could balancing a teaching career while facing personal and professional hurdles actually lead to a deeper connection with students? Join me, Justin Alan Hayes, as I recount my journey from Corporate America to Walsh University, where I not only navigated a new role amidst job loss and long commutes but also connected with students on a human level. Through my story, we explore the importance of understanding students' mental health challenges and the complexities of balancing personal stressors with professional responsibilities. This episode offers a window into the realities of higher education and mental health, grounded in my own experiences and the hurdles I faced.

In another compelling chapter, I tackle the evolving challenges in academia, such as the rise of

Balancing Act: Academic Integrity and Mental Health in Higher Education (Part 1) | Episode 144

Balancing Act: Academic Integrity and Mental Health in Higher Education (Part 2)

Chapter Markers
0:01 State of Higher Education and Ethics
13:59 Academic Integrity Challenges in Higher Education
20:29 Educational Integrity and Mental Health

What happens when the principles of academic integrity collide with the realities of student mental health? Our latest episode promises to unravel this intricate web through real-life scenarios and expert insights. From the story of two students submitting identical papers to the broader implications of administrative inconsistencies on academic rigor, we shed light on the often-hidden challenges educators face. Learn how technology and the COVID-19 pandemic have further complicated the landscape, making the balancing act between supporting student well-being and upholding academic standards even more precarious.

Join us as we navigate these murky waters, sharing personal experiences and examining the ethical dilemmas that arise in higher education today. We delve into 

Balancing Act: Academic Integrity and Mental Health in Higher Education (Part 2) | Episode 145

From Local Beginnings to National Stage: The Evolution of Miss Wheelchair USA

Chapter Markers
0:01 Inspiring Miss Wheelchair USA Pageant
14:10 Creating and Sustaining Miss Wheelchair USA
20:37 Empowering Miss Wheelchair USA Organization
28:52 Celebrating Miss Wheelchair USA Legacy

Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Lockhard, the founder of the Miss Wheelchair USA pageant, as she takes us back to its origins in 1997 during a transformative era for people with disabilities. Learn how Dr. Lockhard transitioned from the Summit County Board of Developmental Disabilities to establishing a national platform that uplifts and celebrates women with disabilities. Hear her passionate recounting of the pageant's evolution from a local to a national event, challenging stereotypes, and showcasing the remarkable talents and stories of its participants.

Behind the glamour and excitement of the pageant lies a story of dedication, strategic planning, and overcoming significant challenges. Drawing from my background in television and entertainment production, I share some of the practical realities behind organizing such large-scale events, from securing corporate sponsorships to involving volunteers and managing logistics. Listen to how the event has grown, the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive team, and the crucial role of passionate creativity in facing and overcoming obstacles.

Be moved by the incredible dedication of the pageant participants and the heartwarming transformation of Fabian, a young man with cerebral palsy, who found hope and motivation through the event. This emotional segment underscores the profound impact of the Miss Wheelchair USA pageant on individuals' lives. Reflect on the legacy of this empowering event and hear our guest Dr. Lockhard express her gratitude while encouraging timely applications for future participants. Join us in celebrating 30 years of community impact, and be inspired to be a voice for yourself or someone in need.

Our Voices for Voices® TV show and podcast is all about teaching you insanely actionable techniques to help you prosper, grow your self worth and personal brand.

So, if you are a high achiever or someone who wants more out of life, whether mentally, physically or spiritually, make sure you subscribe to our podcast right now!

As you can see, the Voices for Voices® show publishes episodes that focus on case studies, real life examples, actionable tips and "in the trenches" reports and interviews from subscribers like you.

If that sounds like something that could help you grow personally or professionally, then make sure to join me by subscribing!
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Thanks for listening and watching!

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From Local Beginnings to National Stage: The Evolution of Miss Wheelchair USA | Episode 146

Uniting for Safer Schools: A Call to Action | Episode 147

Chapter Markers
0:01 Back to School Safety and Security
11:56 School Safety and Security Advocacy
19:40 Safety and Security Measures for Protection

Navigating the back-to-school season can be a daunting task, especially when your child is transitioning from a more relaxed preschool environment to the structured world of kindergarten. Amidst the excitement, there's an underlying anxiety that many parents feel about their children's safety. Join us as we share personal stories and tackle the pressing concerns about school safety, from adjusting to new routines to grappling with the harsh realities of active shooter drills. We discuss the disparities in security measures across different schools and underline the urgent need for standardized protocols to ensure every child's well-being.

The safety of our children in educational settings should transcend political affiliations. This episode offers a candid discussion on the persistent issue of school shootings and the polarized debate on gun control. Drawing parallels to post-9/11 airport security, we advocate for rigorous safety measures in schools, akin to those at concerts and sports events. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to protect our children, critiquing the media's role in politicizing tragedies and stressing the human aspect over political divisions. Tune in as we call on parents, educators, and policymakers to come together and make our schools safe havens for learning once again.

Voices for Voices® is the #1 ranked podcast where people turn to for expert mental health, recovery and career advancement intelligence.

Our Voices for Voices® podcast is all about teaching you insanely actionable techniques to help you prosper, grow your self worth and personal brand.

So, if you are a high achiever or someone who wants more out of life, whether mentally, physically or spiritually, make sure you subscribe to our podcast right now!

As you can see, the Voices for Voices® podcast publishes episodes that focus on case studies, real life examples, actionable tips and "in the trenches" reports and interviews from subscribers like you.

If that sounds like something that could help you grow personally or professionally, then make sure to join me by subscribing!
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Thanks for watching!

Support Voices for Voices®: https://venmo.com/u/voicesforvoices

#smartschoolsbondact #nationalactionplan #independentschools #agencyforhealthcareresearchandquality #21stcenturyschools #actionnews #safercare #schoolshooting #kindergarten #floridaschoolshooting #highschoolshootingschoolsafety #schoolresourceofficer #resourceofficer #inspirationalstories #activeshooterdrills #firstnationshealthauthority #floridashooting #safecommunitiesinstitute #activeshooter #activeshooterdrill #Newepisode #newpodcastalert #podcastseries #podcastcommunity #voicesforvoicespodcast

Uniting for Safer Schools: A Call to Action | Episode 147

From Dreams to Despair: Kelly Nagy's Battle with Addiction and Path to Recovery | Episode 148

Chapter Markers
0:01 Journey Through Substance Abuse and Recovery
13:48 Trapped in Addiction

How did a woman with a stable childhood, dreams of becoming a meteorologist, and a knack for public speaking find herself caught in the dark grasp of addiction? Join us as Kelly Nagy takes us through the intense and emotional journey that followed the birth of her first son, Phillip. From the onset of crippling anxiety and panic attacks to the dangerous spiral into substance abuse, Kelly bravely shares the darkest chapters of her life. Discover the raw reality of how her initial trust in prescribed medications like Klonopin led her down a path of heavy drinking and risky behaviors, ultimately endangering herself and those around her.

Kelly’s story is not just about the struggle but also about the painful realizations and the profound impact addiction had on her family and herself. This episode is a heartfelt recounting of how addiction can erode a person's sense of control and reliability. Listen as Kelly reflects on nights of competitive drinking, the lack of medical guidance, and the shifting perception of what 'normal' became for her. This compelling narrative sets the stage for the next part of her journey, where she begins to find her way to recovery and dedicates herself to helping others facing similar battles. Join us for a story of resilience, honesty, and hope.

Voices for Voices® is the #1 ranked podcast where people turn to for expert mental health, recovery and career advancement intelligence.

Our Voices for Voices® podcast is all about teaching you insanely actionable techniques to help you prosper, grow your self worth and personal brand.

So, if you are a high achiever or someone who wants more out of life, whether mentally, physically or spiritually, make sure you subscribe to our podcast right now!

As you can see, the Voices for Voices® podcast publishes episodes that focus on case studies, real life examples, actionable tips and "in the trenches" reports and interviews from subscribers like you.

If that sounds like something that could help you grow personally or professionally, then make sure to join me by subscribing!
—
Thanks for watching!

Support Voices for Voices®: https://venmo.com/u/voicesforvoices

#Newepisode #newpodcastalert #podcastseries #podcastcommunity #voicesforvoicespodcast #addictionrecoveryjourney #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #AddictionAwareness #Hope

From Dreams to Despair: Kelly Nagy's Battle with Addiction and Path to Recovery | Episode 148

We advocate for addiction & mental health recovery.

My Story - Faith, Recovery, and Redemption with Don Matis, Jr. (Part 1) | Episode 140

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