Side Trips: How It All Started

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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️     

Tom Walters is the creator and host of the popular podcast Zen Communter. Thom is a long time meditator, meditation teacher and speaker with over 40 years of experience. In this podcast Thom shares  his thoughts and experiences on  the transformative power of meditation, from its ability to shift our perceptions to its role as a gateway to inner peace. Thom expresses his gratitude for his life and for his podcast guests:   “I’m just surrounded by love and wisdom every day.”    Join us as we explore how meditation can change not just our minds, but our entire approach to life, and how embracing change can lead to a deeper, more fulfilling existence. Listen in and find out why, despite life’s ups and downs, Tom wouldn’t change a thing about his journey. And for a special treat, the second half of the podcast, behind the scenes of the main podcast. This is usually available only for Bump II subscribers.     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 wondered if there’s more to life than the pursuit of money? Kevin Palmieri tested the limits of success as he shares his remarkable story of leaving behind a six-figure job to chase a dream that many would consider a gamble—becoming a full-time podcaster. It seemed like Kevin had it all: the car, the girl, the income.   “Everything looked amazing. But truthfully, if you took a deeper look inside and you could see how I felt, I was super insecure. I lacked confidence. I had very little direction. I was afraid of my own shadow. I just was not well developed as a man.”   And then everything fell apart. Kevin talks about how he confronted his insecurities, overcame societal expectations, and ultimately found fulfillment not in his bank account, but in his daily actions and pursuit of growth. Kevin’s transformation from a high-earner to a passionate podcaster is not just about career change; it’s about redefining success on his own terms. It’s about the realization that self-worth isn’t tied to a paycheck and that fulfillment comes from growth, contribution, and purpose. This episode is a profound look at what it means to live consciously and make choices that align with your deepest values. If you’re ready to be moved, motivated, and possibly even reconsider what you’re chasing in life, then you won’t want to miss this 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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Healing From Betrayal   In the shadows of a seemingly perfect life, Dana Killian found herself grappling with a reality she never expected. Married to a high-functioning alcoholic, Dana’s world was one of confusion, betrayal, and silent suffering—a story that many share but few dare to tell. Dana offers a candid look into the heart-wrenching journey of being the sober partner to an addict. From the initial denial and confusion to the painful acknowledgment of her husband’s addiction and infidelity, Dana’s story is one of raw honesty and vulnerability. Dana’s account is ultimately one of immense personal growth and healing. Her resilience inspires as she talks about transforming her pain into a source of strength, learning to trust herself again, and ultimately finding a newfound sense of self-worth and happiness. This story  is not just for those who have experienced the pain of addiction in their lives. It’s a universal story of overcoming adversity, the power of self-reflection, and the human capacity for change. Dana’s journey teaches us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope, and healing is possible.   Libsyn       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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Psychic Journeys and a Near Death Experience (NDE)   Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the veil of our physical world? June Edward’s journey may offer a glimpse into that mystery. Born with innate psychic abilities, June’s childhood was filled with otherworldly experiences.  A near-death experience (NDE) at 27 changed the course of her life. She returned to her body with a renewed sense of purpose to help people connect with lost loved ones. As a medium, June finds answers that only someone with her experience can provide. She also delves into the concept of karma, past lives, and the Akashic records, providing a fascinating perspective on the continuity of our souls.   "Your book of life is kept in the Akashic record room, which is the lowest level of heaven int he fifth dimension."   June’s life has not always been easy and her path is a reminder that often it’s the most challenging paths that lead to the greatest growth. Her story is not just about psychic phenomena; it’s about the human condition, the search for meaning, and the interconnectedness of our experiences. Be moved, inspired, and perhaps even transformed. June Edward’s journey is a reminder that there is more to this life—and the next—than meets the eye.   Libsyn       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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️