Joelle Casteix: The Accidental Activist

Yogi Aaron on The Life Changing Power of Mindfulness   “Wake up every morning and ask those questions, how can I live my best life today? How can I live more fully?” -Yogi Aaron   Life often presents us with unexpected challenges, and how we respond to these “bumps in the road” can define our path forward. In this compelling podcast episode, we meet a yogi whose tale is not just about yoga—it’s a profound narrative of facing chronic pain, confronting one’s identity, and ultimately finding empowerment through adversity. Yogi Aaron’s story begins with yoga, a practice he adopted at 18 to combat tightness in his body. What started as a search for physical flexibility turned into a 25-year saga of chronic pain, culminating in a dire emergency room visit and a surgeon’s recommendation for spinal fusion. This moment of crisis forced Aaron to question everything he knew about his body and his identity. But Aaron’s tale is not one of defeat. It’s a story of transformation and light-bulb moments. It’s about flipping the script on victimhood and learning to ask, “What don’t I know?” This pivotal question led Aaron to explore muscle activation techniques, radically changing his understanding of the body and biomechanics. He discovered that many of us walk around with major muscles simply not working, leading to a cascade of stress and inflammation. Through his journey, Aaron not only healed himself but also began to help others. He delves into the less-is-more philosophy, the power of isometric holds, and the spiritual and psychological aspects of yoga. He emphasizes the importance of relaxation and introduces us to practices like yoga nidra, which can be more restorative than sleep. This episode isn’t just about yoga; it’s about life, resilience, and the profound impact of mindset on our health and well-being. Aaron’s reflections on mental health, the importance of disconnecting from electronics, and maintaining presence are lessons for us all. He reminds us of the beauty of life and the importance of living with purpose, regardless of the challenges we face. So, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by life’s hurdles or struggled with chronic pain, tune in to this episode. Let Aaron inspire you to embrace your inner strength, reevaluate your understanding of your body, and approach life’s bumps with a sense of empowerment. Listen now and start living your best life today.   #yogajourney #healing #mindfulness #lifelessons     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 faced a challenge so daunting that it seemed insurmountable? Our latest podcast episode features an extraordinary story of a mother, Lois Letchford , who transformed her son's educational hurdles into an inspiring success. When her son Nicholas struggled with learning disabilities, Lois took matters into her own hands, proving that with creativity, dedication, and love, the impossible can become possible. Discover how Lois's innovative approach to teaching led Nicholas from being labeled with a low IQ to earning a PhD in applied mathematics from Oxford University. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of personalized learning and the potential that lies within every child. Tune in to be moved and motivated by Lois's story, a journey that redefines what it means to overcome a 'bump in the road.'   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 like the weight of your past traumas was physically holding you down? In our latest podcast episode, we explore a story that might change the way you think about emotional healing and personal growth. Ann, our guest, takes us on a journey through her life, marked by a series of traumas, including the loss of her mother at a young age. It wasn't until her late thirties that she discovered a technique that would revolutionize her world – Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping. With the simple yet profound act of tapping on meridian points on the body, Anne began to release decades of pent-up emotions. She describes how, after one session, she was able to recount her mother's death without the tears that had always been "just under the surface." This breakthrough was just the beginning. As Anne delved deeper into EFT and other somatic practices, she not only released emotional tension but started noticing physical changes. She grew three-quarters of an inch as her body decompressed from the burdens it had been carrying. Her story is a testament to the concept that our emotions are not just in our minds – they're stored in our bodies. Anne's insights into self-awareness and the healing journey are profound. She shares how tapping on simple words like "mother" or "love" can bring up a cascade of memories and emotions, allowing for a deeper healing process. If you're looking for a sign to start your healing journey or if you're simply curious about the potential of EFT tapping, this episode is a must-listen. Anne's story is not just about overcoming the past; it's about unlocking a life of depth, peace, and true self-awareness. Join us as we dive into this powerful conversation on healing and growth. Who knows? You might just find the key to your own transformation.   EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), Tapping Technique, Childhood Trauma, Emotional Healing, Meridian Systems, Subconscious Mind, Somatic Therapy, Self-Awareness, Energy Movement, Inner Peace, Positive Thinking, Personal Growth, Emotional Release, Awareness Journey, Kundalini Energy, Orthodontic X-Rays, Cultural Contrast, Meditation Practices     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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Our latest podcast episode, "Bump in the Road," is not your ordinary tale of survival. It's a deep dive into the psyche of a military pilot who, despite saving an aircraft and its passengers, faced an aftermath that would unravel only years later. Jim's story is one of resilience, a testament to the human spirit's ability to confront the most daunting obstacles. Listeners will be taken on a journey through Jim's life, from the moment of the crash to the psychological repercussions that followed. The physical manifestations of his trauma were as perplexing as they were frightening—losing time while driving, an inability to control emotions, and a decline in his once-impeccable flying skills. But it was the psychological impact that proved the most challenging to overcome. Jim's candid recounting of his diagnosis and the stigma associated with mental illness in the military paints a poignant picture of the struggles faced by many veterans. The episode sheds light on the complexities of PTSD, the difficulty in seeking help, and the courage required to face a diagnosis that can alter the course of one's life. What makes this episode particularly compelling is Jim's choice of weapon in his fight against PTSD: creative writing. Through his words, he's been able to channel his experiences, both real and fictionalized, into stories that resonate with authenticity and emotion. His journey into writing is not just a coping mechanism but a form of therapy that has allowed him to reinvent himself and help others along the way. Join us in listening to this powerful episode. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the silent battles many face and perhaps find inspiration in Jim's creative resurgence—a beacon of hope for anyone who has faced their own bumps in the road.       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   Follow Bump on: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️ 

Joelle Castei is a writer, advocate, and self-proclaimed ‘accidental activist.’ Her story is one of pain, resilience, and ultimately, triumph. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Joelle’s journey began in the place where she should have felt safest—her catholic high school in Southern California. But instead, she found herself in the clutches of predatory groomer and abuser. Joelle’s narrative is heart-wrenchingly common among survivors, yet her courage to speak out is extraordinary. She takes us through the dark corridors of her past, from battling depression and a suicide attempt to the betrayal of those who should have protected her. Joelle’s story, however, is not just about the abuse she suffered; it’s about the systemic failure of the school officials at Mater Dei High School who turned a blind eye to the atrocities committed within their walls. This is a story about the incredible strength it takes to rebuild a life from the ashes of trauma. After hitting rock bottom, she made a choice—a choice to live, to fight, and to ensure that “the bad people don’t win.” And fight she did. Joelle’s activism led her to speak out against abuse, work with the media, testify in front of state legislatures, and even pen a book to help parents protect their children from predators. Her journey is a testament to the power of taking responsibility—not for the abuse, but for her healing and future. It’s a message she now shares with survivors and parents alike, teaching them to arm themselves and their children against predators and to take control of their lives. Tune in to this powerful episode to witness the journey of an incredible woman who turned her pain into purpose. Joelle Castex’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone who has faced adversity, a reminder that with courage and determination, we can overcome the darkest of times and emerge stronger and more determined to make the world a better place.     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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️ 

Side Trips are super short podcasts that let me reflect and share my thoughts. This Side Trip came about due to my podcast with Lya Badgley. Lya said:  "Choices you'll make may appear reckless to the people around you and to society. But you're thinking, I don't care, right? What's the worst that can happen? I could die?"   Did this hit home with me as I went from a decade of diability to a decade of wild adventure. Listen in and see what you think.     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 trapped by the shadows of your past, particularly when those shadows are cast by generational anger and emotional turmoil? Meet Paul Holman, a man who courageously shares his journey from being ensnared in a legacy of anger to finding freedom through love and understanding. Paul’s story is not just about personal transformation; it’s a beacon of hope for anyone who believes they are doomed to repeat the mistakes of their predecessors. Growing up in an environment where anger was the primary emotion, Paul vowed at 17 to create a different life for himself and his future children. Yet, despite his best intentions, he found himself perpetuating the very patterns he despised. It wasn’t until the age of 35, after the end of his first marriage and a series of life-altering realizations, that Paul truly began to take responsibility for his actions. He embarked on a quest to break the cycle of anger, diving into resources like The Color Code and The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman. These tools, combined with a healthy dose of introspection, led Paul to a novel approach to fostering love and kindness. Paul’s invention, the Roll of Love game, is a playful yet profound method to practice the love languages daily. His story of how this game came to be, the challenges he faced along the way, and the joy it has brought into his life is nothing short of inspirational. This episode is a masterclass in emotional intelligence and the power of love languages to change the way we interact with the world. Paul’s insights into the importance of focusing on the good in people, rather than their faults, are a valuable lesson for us all.     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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️ 

This is the story of Lya Badgley, a woman whose life reads like an adventure novel filled with courage, resilience, and the pursuit of an authentic existence. Lya’s story begins in the vibrant landscapes of Southeast Asia, where she was born. She traveled the world with her parents, and those travels would shape her world view. Lya shares how a diagnosis of MS led her to become ever more adventurous.   “Choices that you’ll make that appear reckless to the people around you and to society. But you’re thinking, I don’t care, right? What’s the worst that can happen? I could die?”   Thanks to MS, Lya faced a future filled with uncertainty. Instead of succumbing to fear, she embraced the unknown. Her illness became a catalyst for a life of unexpected adventures, from crossing borders into Burma to opening a restaurant in a foreign land. Lya’s narrative is a powerful reminder that our most significant challenges can lead to our most extraordinary achievements. Through her story, we see the human side of illness—the friendships lost, the emotional toll, and the profound sense of loneliness that can accompany a diagnosis. But Lya’s tale is not one of despair. It’s a story of rebirth, of finding new ways to be and reinventing oneself amidst adversity. Her journey into mindfulness and meditation reveals a path to inner strength and the ability to make choices from a place of gratitude rather than bitterness. This conversation is  an invitation to reflect on our own lives, our own bumps in the road, and how we might use them as portals into a more conscious and meaningful existence. So grab a cup of coffee, settle into a comfortable chair, and let Lya Badgley’s extraordinary story inspire you to view your life’s bumps not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. And be sure to check out lay’s books “ and “” which explore the themes of global conflict and personal resilience.     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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️     

Ever felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Simon Rinney’s story is a profound exploration of overcoming mental health struggles and finding true authenticity. From battling OCD and depression to embracing sobriety and mindfulness, Simon’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. Be  inspired by his transformation and learn how mindfulness can help navigate the twists and turns of life. Simon’s tale is a story of awakening, of finding solace in the support of loved ones, and of the courage to seek help. His turning point came with a diagnosis that, rather than shackle him, granted him the power of knowledge. With this knowledge, he began to dismantle the social constructs of masculinity that had long dictated his behavior, and he started to embrace his vulnerability. This is a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of mental health issues or the societal pressure to conform to a certain image.  Simon’s voice is a beacon of hope, encouraging men to shed the armor of traditional masculinity and to embrace their authentic selves. His story is a testament to the fact that even when life seems to be an endless cycle of autopilot, there is a way back to oneself.   “I ​discovered ​this ​thing ​called ​mindfulness, ​and ​the ​courage ​to ​be ​authentic ​by ​being ​mindful ​and ​living ​a ​conscious ​life, ​as ​opposed ​to ​a ​life ​that ​for ​so ​long, ​I ​lived ​almost ​on ​an ​autopilot.”   Simon’s path to recovery and self-discovery is not just his own. It’s a shared path that he draws upon to help other men find their way. In his podcast, Mindful Men, he’s becomes the guide he never had, using his experiences to support other men on their journey to mental wellness. Don’t miss this episode. It’s a conversation that could very well be the catalyst for your own journey towards a more mindful and authentic life.       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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️     

When Life Takes an Unexpected Turn: Embracing the Role of Caregiver   Imagine receiving a call that would turn your world upside down. For Mark Steven Porro, a carefree bachelor living in Los Angeles, that call came from his brother in New Jersey. Their mother was on her deathbed. Dropping everything, Mark flew home, not knowing that this trip would change his life forever. In the latest episode of ‘Bump in the Road,’ we hear Mark’s incredible story of transformation from an actor and entrepreneur to a devoted son and caregiver. His mother, once in a semi-comatose state, miraculously recovered after a rogue hospice nurse broke protocol, leading to Mark’s decision to move back into his childhood home and assume full-time care for his mother. Care often came down to the little things:   “One ​of ​the ​first ​things ​I ​did…She ​had ​these ​old ​drab ​day ​dresses ​and ​stuff ​like ​that. ​And ​I ​said, ​I ​don’t ​want ​my ​mom ​looking ​like ​an ​old ​lady. ​So I ​bought ​her ​a ​new ​wardrobe. And ​that ​cheered ​her ​up immensely.”   Mark’s narrative is not just a story of caregiving; it’s a journey of personal growth, humor, and empathy. He shares the challenges of changing diapers, learning to provide medical care, and even renovating the family home to make it more comfortable for his mother. Through it all, Mark maintains a sense of humor and a deep love for his mother, which he expresses in poignant, often hilarious anecdotes. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to care for someone at the end of their life. Mark’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact we can have on each other’s lives. It’s a narrative that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the power of love and family.     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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️