From Skepticism to Spiritual Awakening

Delia Chiaramonte, MD is a physician whose life took an unexpected turn when her twelve year old daughter, Katrina,  suffered a severe brain injury. Delia believed she understood the challenges faced by caregivers—until she became one herself. Katrina’s, and Delia’s, journey began with a riding accident. Despite following medical advice to rest her brain, Katerina’s condition worsened. She suffered from excruciating headaches, cognitive impairments, and a complete personality shift. The conventional medical approach offered little relief, and Delia found herself navigating a maze of specialists and treatments with no clear solution in sight. It wasn’t until Delia combined her medical knowledge with complementary therapies that they began to see progress. They incorporated a variety of treatments, including neurofeedback, vision therapy, guided imagery, and even surgery. Delia emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach, stating,   “We need a bigger toolbox where we pull the best things that this person needs.”   This integrative approach not only helped Katrina recover but also transformed Delia’s perspective on medicine. She now advocates for integrative palliative care, which combines conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies to address both the physical and emotional needs of patients and their families. Delia’s journey underscores the critical role of caregivers and the need for a holistic approach to medicine. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is not just about treating symptoms but about addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Whether you’re a caregiver, a medical professional, or someone interested in holistic healing, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in now and discover the power of integrative medicine and palliative care.     What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️       

In this podcast episode, Lynn Patner shares her  journey from being a skeptic to becoming a midwife of awakening souls. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity, energy healing, and the profound impact of listening with your heart. Lynn attended a session with a healer, expecting to debunk what she thought was quackery. However, during the session, she experienced an incredible surge of energy that changed her life forever. This moment marked the beginning of her spiritual journey, as she sought to understand and learn more about the energy she had felt. Lynn encountered various bumps in the road that taught her valuable lessons about judgment, compassion, and the importance of listening with an open heart. Her work as a social worker for child welfare exposed her to the harsh realities of abuse and neglect, but it also taught her to see beyond judgment and understand the stories and experiences of others. Lynn’s journey led her to explore various spiritual practices, including hypnotherapy, Reiki, Native American traditions, and shamanism. Each of these practices contributed to her growth and understanding of herself as a divine being having a human experience. Throughout her journey, Lynn emphasized the importance of consciousness and the need to address and heal old wounds. She shared that many of our beliefs and behaviors are shaped by experiences from early childhood, and it is crucial to recognize and heal these wounds to live a fulfilling life. Tune in to hear Lynn’s inspiring story and learn how listening with your heart can transform your life. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, Lynn’s journey offers valuable insights and lessons for everyone.       What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Andrea Vallely's  life was picture-perfect on the outside – a lucrative career, a beautiful home, and a loving family. Yet, when the 2007 financial crash hit, her world crumbled, revealing that true happiness isn’t found in material wealth. Her story takes us through the pain of financial loss, the betrayal of a partner, and the daunting task of rebuilding her life from scratch. But it’s not just a tale of struggle; it’s a narrative filled with moments of profound insight and spiritual awakening. Andrea’s resilience shines through as she navigates the aftermath of the crash, which left her scrambling for work and grappling with the stark realization that her happiness was not tied to her possessions. It was during this turmoil that a friend handed her a book that would change her life. This episode isn’t just about the fall and rise of one woman; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to transcend adversity. It’s about finding joy and love in the most unexpected places and learning to live authentically, without the weight of our stories. Andrea’s journey encourages us to look within for happiness and to trust the path life has in store for us.     What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️      🌟  Listen to the podcast:  Apple Podcasts ➡️  Spotify ➡️  Google Podcasts ➡️ 

In the latest episode Cindy Girman shares her story of losing her  22-year-old son, Alec, to drugs.  This tragedy plunged her into the depths of grief, a fog that seemed impenetrable for months. Cindy, a scientist with a doctorate in biostatistics and epidemiology, found herself at a crossroads between her analytical mind and the mysterious realm of spirituality. Her encounter with a medium opened a new chapter in her life, allowing her to communicate with Alec in the afterlife. These sessions were not only transformative but also led to the co-creation of a book titled “,” where Alec serves as the primary author, sharing his experiences from beyond. The podcast delves into the complexities of grief, the challenges of addiction, and the transformative power of spiritual connection. Cindy discusses how her views on God, the afterlife, and spirituality evolved dramatically through her experiences. She also touches on the profound lessons she learned from Alec, both in life and in death, emphasizing the importance of compassion and understanding. Embark on a journey of love, loss, and enlightenment with Cindy. Her story is a testament to the enduring bond between a mother and her son, transcending the boundaries of the physical world. Listen and let Cindy’s transformative experience inspire you to look at life, and what lies beyond, through a new lens.       What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

What does it take to be an NFL referee, much less a female ref? Ask Shannon Eastin, the NFL’s first woman referee. Shannon is a trailblazer in the world of sports officiating. Shannon’s journey from a disciplined judo competitor to breaking barriers as an NFL official is nothing short of inspiring. Shannon’s journey to the NFL was filled with challenges and resistance, but her unwavering determination kept her moving forward. She emphasized that being a good official is not just about knowing the rules but having the presence, communication skills, and emotional stability to handle the high-pressure environment of sports. Shannon chronicles her story  in her book Don’t miss this episode as Shannon shares her incredible journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the wisdom that transcends sports.       What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

What do you want to do with your life? Would a near death experience change your perspective on life? It did for Cherie Aimee. This is a story about the other side of a dark night of the soul. It’s a story about using dark times to find light and about transforming our deepest truths. It’s about life, spirituality and healing. Subscribers can listen to the second part of the podcast on Substack. (bumpintheroad.substack.com/subscribe) If you have questions about your life purpose, the afterlife and why we’re here, this podcast is for you.If you haven’t subscribed, you’ll want to, just to hear this incredible conversation.       What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Do you ever feel alone? Lonely? Disconnected from the rest of the world? Does it get you down? It’s the human condition. And how we decide to handle it may just determine how we experience our journey in terms of our own mental health and even spirituality. For this podcast, I invited two people who have had profound experiences that you would think would lead to incredible isolation. Each person has a totally different perspective on their experience. Lise DeGuire shares her journey of surviving severe burns at the age of four.  Her sunny disposition and determination to make friends helped her navigate these difficult times. Cherie’s story is equally compelling. A survivor of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, sudden cardiac arrest, and a heart transplant, she spent over a decade isolated and bedridden. Cherie speaks candidly about the different types of isolation she experienced—from the void she felt during cancer treatment, to the inability to communicate while on life support, to the prolonged isolation of her recovery. Through it all, she learned the importance of self-compassion and developing a deep relationship with her body. I also share some of my own bumps in the road that led to experiences of isolation, including a difficult divorce and a battle with cancer. My  journey highlights how isolation can sometimes lead to profound self-discovery and spiritual growth. Three women. Three different stories. Perhaps one of the most important take aways is  the importance of living from the inside out, how it fosters compassion and greater connection. Tune in to hear these inspiring stories and gain valuable insights into our common journey. You won’t want to miss this enlightening and heartfelt conversation. ​   What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️    🌟  Listen to the podcast:  Apple Podcasts ➡️  Spotify ➡️  Google Podcasts ➡️ 

This story is about examining our beliefs, no matter where they come from. Sally’s childhood was far from ordinary. Raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household, her life was dictated by strict rules and the looming presence of a cult that dictated every aspect of her existence. Sally shares the stark realities of her upbringing—no birthdays, no Christmas, no semblance of a normal childhood. She recounts the emotional and mental abuse at the hands of her stepfather and the congregation that turned a blind eye. In ‘The Truth is a Lie,’ Sally’s young adult fiction book, she unveils a narrative that mirrors her own experiences. It’s a tale that delves into the complexities of life within a cult, the psychological warfare endured by its members, and the incredible strength it takes to escape. Sally’s story is  a journey of self-discovery, of finding one’s voice amidst the silence imposed by others. It’s a story about having the bravery and guts to break away from onellife to form another. Sally’s experience lends many insights on personal growth, spirituality, and the importance of finding trusted mentors. Her advice to those in similar situations is highly practical —seek help, make a plan, and take baby steps towards a better life. This episode is an invitation to reflect on the rules that define all our worlds. It’s a story of seeking one’s truth, even when that breaks the role you are told to play. This story will challenge you to look at your own life, and ask where your truth lies.     What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Have you ever felt lost, overwhelmed by life’s challenges, or simply in need of a change? Kirsten’s story might be just what you need to hear. In a recent episode of our podcast, Kirsten shares her deeply personal and transformative journey along the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage that spans hundreds of miles across Spain and France. Kirsten’s story begins with a period of intense anxiety and depression, compounded by the stress of turning 40 and family dynamics. Her life was at a breaking point, and she found herself saying things she couldn’t control, leading to a fallout with her sister. This dark period left her feeling ashamed and desperate for answers. But then, something extraordinary happened. Kirsten received multiple signs from the universe, urging her to walk the Camino de Santiago. Despite not being religious or inclined towards such journeys, she felt a compelling force guiding her. She quit her job, made arrangements for her home, and embarked on this arduous pilgrimage. Her journey was anything but easy. From the first day, Kirsten faced physical and emotional challenges, including harsh weather and the solitude of walking alone. Yet, she also experienced moments of profound beauty and kindness from strangers. These encounters helped her realize that she was exactly where she needed to be, doing what she was meant to do. Kirsten also delves into the concept of “compassionate possession,” where she felt an external force guiding her actions and words in crucial moments. These experiences, though initially alarming, led to life-changing connections and realizations. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of listening to one’s inner voice, and the transformative potential of spiritual journeys. Kirsten’s pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago not only helped her heal but also allowed her to be a source of healing for others. If you’re seeking inspiration, healing, or simply a compelling story of personal growth, don’t miss this episode. Kirsten’s journey is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is a path to light and understanding. Listen now and discover the magic of the Camino de Santiago through Kirsten’s eyes.   What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

In this episode Susan Gold takes us on her  odyssey from the depths of a troubled childhood to the dizzying heights of the entertainment industry. Susan was, born into a family characterized by alcoholism and compulsive behaviors. Susan harbored dreams of escape, dreams that were fueled by the likes of Barbara Walters, who later became not just a role model but a client in Susan’s glamorous life in the Big Apple. Working at ICM, one of the most prestigious agencies in the entertainment industry, Susan’s life seemed to be on the trajectory of stars. But the atmosphere of glitz had a darker underside. Sexual harassment, addiction and a tumultuous divorce followed Susan’s rise. Susan’s tale is a  continuing saga of evolution and growth. From launching her own talent brokerage firm to facing her fears head-on, Susan’s life is a masterclass in turning pain into power. This podcast episode is more than just an interview; it’s an intimate conversation that will leave you inspired, moved, and perhaps a little more enlightened on your own journey. So, take a moment, listen in, and let Susan’s story remind you that every bump in the road is an opportunity for transformation and growth.     What they're saying:   “This is a beautiful book about life, its imperfections, its challenges, and its joys. It is a book of hope and wisdom for all of us facing a bump in the road.” –Pragito Dove   “Pat has woven together beautiful stories of life setbacks that have been transformed into spiritual growth. This book is a gift and a must-read for souls experiencing pain and yearning for growth.”   –Gary Hensel   Learn more at   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️