Ep. 76 - Love That Transcends: Grief, Growth, and the Journey to Spiritual Connection, with Neal Tricarico

What if everything you thought you knew about death was wrong?Captain Tom Huitema was living a life most people dream of—soaring through the skies as a commercial pilot, in peak health, thriving with purpose and passion. But in an instant, everything changed. One ordinary night, an undiagnosed heart defect triggered sudden cardiac arrest, and Tom flatlined for 20 minutes. Clinically dead, he crossed over—only to return with vivid memories of the afterlife, stories of peace and love that defy logic, and a mission to share what he now knows: we are never alone, and the work we do here on Earth is about far more than our job titles.Statistically, Tom should not have survived.Over 90% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are fatal—especially when defibrillation is delayed. Most survivors, if any, suffer severe neurological damage. But Tom came back not only alive, but fully intact—physically, mentally, and spiritually. His survival is nothing short of a medical miracle.His journey is more than a near-death experience—it’s a wake-up call for all of us.In this unforgettable episode, Tom recounts the profound beauty and clarity he experienced while on the “other side.” He describes the overwhelming love that flooded every part of his being, the presence of his father and family waiting to greet him, and the soul-stirring message he received: “What you are feeling are all the kindnesses you’ve put into the world.” Tom’s story is a powerful reminder that our greatest legacy isn’t what we do—it’s how we make others feel. If you are navigating grief, questioning the afterlife, or looking to reconnect with a deeper sense of meaning and hope, this episode is for you!For the whole story: Flying and Dying by Captain Tom Huitema is available on Amazon →  https://a.co/d/fKKartN. 100% of proceeds support the American Heart Association and AED placement programs.You can connect with Tom through his IG - fit2flya787.#BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #WeGotThis #SpiritualAwakening #Afterlife #NearDeathExperiences #LifeAfterDeath #WhatHappensWhenWeDie #FlyingAndDying #LoveIsTheAnswer

What if the life you’ve been dreaming of is still ahead of you—even after the heartbreak of divorce?In this powerful and inspiring episode, I spend time with Julie Danielson, creator of the Get Over Divorce coaching program and host of the top-rated Get Over Divorce podcast. Julie shares her raw and relatable journey—from smoking and crying in her garage to creating a life and relationship beyond what she ever thought possible. Together, we dive deep into how women can rebuild after divorce, reclaim their identity, and stop playing small in love and life.You’ll learn why healing isn’t linear (and why “messy dating” is totally normal), how to avoid the trap of dating from need, and why the best time to date again is when you don’t need anyone. We also talk about the myths women buy into after divorce—like needing a “revenge body” or rushing into a new relationship—and how true self-care starts from within. Whether you’re fresh out of a breakup or years down the road and still stuck, this episode is your reminder that your next chapter can be your best one yet.Key Topics:Why forgiveness is for you, not your exRed and green flags in post-divorce datingHow to create a compelling future (even if you can’t see it yet)The power of community and getting support instead of going it alone"Don't be afraid to start over. You might like your new story better."Connect with Julie at www.getoverdivorce.com for additional information and join her free FB group - “Thriving Community- Women Supporting Women Through Divorce.”#WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Divorce #DatingAfterDivorce #SelfLove #Healing #Breakup #LifeAfterDivorce

What if the key to true healing isn’t just about what you eat—but how you think about food, your body, and yourself? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with naturopathic physicians and food experts Dr. Tanda Cook and Dr. Katie Collier, who share their deeply personal journeys of overcoming eating disorders, finding self-acceptance, and using food as medicine.We also dive into a topic that affects everyone—stress and its connection to chronic disease. Your body is designed to prioritize survival over healing, meaning chronic stress can lead to autoimmune diseases, heart disease, diabetes and more. Tanda and Katie explain why today’s traditional medical system often focuses on symptom suppression rather than true healing, and how understanding your body’s natural ability to heal can be a game-changer.Another surprising factor? Community is the #1 predictor of longevity. In a world where disconnection and stress run rampant, Tanda emphasizes the need for real human connection and a supportive environment to create lasting health and happiness.Key Insights in This Episode:  Why self-intuition and self-regulation are key to healing your relationship with food and your body. Why chronic stress is a silent disruptor of health—and actionable ways to reduce it. The power of kindness and curiosity in healing and self-growth. How tiny, intentional shifts in mindset and behavior lead to profound long-term change.If you’re ready to take control of your health and embrace a more intuitive, empowering approach to food and self-care, you don’t want to miss this conversation.Follow @drdrtandacook and @drkatiecollier on Instagram for more insights, access to free masterclasses on hormones, weight loss, and more. Visit drtandacook.com for additional resources and upcoming events, including details on their Cancer Summit in June.#WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Health #NaturopathicMedicine #HealingFromWithin #HolisticHealth #MindBodyConnection

Are you tired of swiping, hoping, and guessing your way through the dating world? Do you actually know what you want in a partner—or are you just winging it? Could you be unknowingly sabotaging your own love life? In honor of Valentine’s Day and the month of love, I sat down with renowned matchmaker (and former owner of It’s Just Lunch) Lisa Purdum to uncover what successful daters do differently. Spoiler: It’s not about luck—it’s about strategy. Lisa also shares her own journey of reinvention, proving that it’s never too late for a fresh start, in love or in life! Together, we banter about what daters get right—from keeping a positive mindset to being intentional about relationship goals. And, of course, we dive into some of the biggest dating missteps—like oversharing too soon, unclear expectations, and leaving things up to fate instead of having a game plan. We also tackle:  Why emotional connection should come before physical intimacy  How to balance communication so you’re not monologuing or interrogating  The power of self-awareness, setting boundaries, and thinking outside the box Whether you’re new to dating, back on the scene, or just looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with insights to help you find the right match—without the unnecessary drama. If you’re ready to ditch the guesswork and date with confidence, this one’s for you! You can connect with this week’s guest via her website - www.e3matchmaking.com. #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Love #Dating #Relationships

In this fascinating and unique episode, I sit down with Lauren Kester, an astrologer and mindset coach, to explore the powerful connection between astrology and personal development, specifically in love and relationships. Together, we dive into how understanding your astrological birth chart—a map of the sky at the moment of your birth—can provide profound insights into your emotional needs, communication styles, and relationship dynamics. Lauren explains how our soul chooses the lessons we’re meant to learn in this lifetime, often through the relationships we form. By understanding our astrological blueprint, we can uncover the unique challenges and opportunities we face in love, paving the way for deeper self-knowledge, growth, and meaningful connections. To give you an inside look at her process, Lauren reads my chart during the episode, offering a glimpse into how astrology can illuminate past experiences, future possibilities, and the timing of life’s key moments. Whether you’re new to astrology or a seasoned enthusiast, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and inspiration for navigating your personal and relationship journeys. If finding love or creating stronger relationships is on your New Year’s resolution list, this “stars and planets in the sky” episode is for you!   If you’re interested in having your chart read, you can connect with this week’s guest via IG - hello.its.lauren or her website - www.laurenkester.com. #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Astrology #AstrologyandLove #CreateTheLifeYouWant

As the holiday season approaches—a time often filled with warmth, joy, and togetherness—it can also bring a deep ache for those grieving the loss of a loved one. In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Katy O’Brien Mackie, a gifted evidential medium, licensed psychologist, certified hypnotherapist, and Reiki practitioner, to explore how we can navigate this emotionally charged season with healing and connection. Katy shares her transformative journey of embracing her mediumship abilities, once hidden out of fear of judgment, and using them to help others heal and find peace. Through her profound insights into the energy that connects us all, she explains how spirits communicate and offers comforting guidance on maintaining a connection with those who have passed. With touching stories and practical advice, Katy reveals how our loved ones want us to honor their memory—by celebrating life, finding joy, and creating meaningful traditions. Whether through uplifting activities, storytelling, or quiet moments of reflection, Katy shows us how to transform grief into healing and find solace in the enduring bonds of love. This inspiring conversation sheds light on the afterlife, the healing power of energy, and the profound comfort that comes from knowing our loved ones are still with us. Whether you’re navigating grief or seeking a deeper understanding of the unseen world, this episode offers a beacon of hope and connection during this holiday season, reminding us that love transcends all boundaries—even the veil between worlds. You can connect with this week’s guest via IG - blueheron.healing or her website - blue-heron-healing.com. #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Mediumship #HolidayHealing #EnergyHealing #BlueHeronHealing

At just 20 years old, college tennis player Samantha Sharifi’s life was turned upside down when she became paralyzed from head to toe almost overnight. Weeks of fear and uncertainty followed as doctors struggled to find answers. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of the voluntary muscles. Doctors warned she might never play tennis again, would be handicapped, and would need lifelong medication to manage the condition. But Samantha refused to accept this as her story. In this episode, she shares her incredible journey to full remission by understanding the profound connection between nutrition, mindset, and healing. She explains how listening to the body’s “language” and addressing root causes—physical, emotional, and spiritual—can transform our health. Join us as we discuss: Why a medical diagnosis shouldn’t define you. The link between unresolved trauma and autoimmune disorders. How shame and emotional blocks can impact physical health. The role of the central nervous system in overall well-being. The importance of food as medicine and nutrients, the importance of quality food and sourcing, and the power of a plant based diet.  How personal research and self-awareness empower us to take responsibility for our well-being, challenge traditional health narratives, and actively participate in our recovery.  If you’ve ever felt trapped by a diagnosis or wondered if there’s more to healing than medications and symptom management, this episode will inspire you to take a deeper look at your health and discover the power of your own body’s wisdom. You can connect with this week’s guest via her email - [email protected] Doctors, Authors, and Thought Leaders who helped shape her healing journey: Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dr. Zach Bush, Dr. Gabor Mate, and Kate Northrup  #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Health #Healing #AutoimmuneDisorder  

Have you ever felt like you’re on the wrong path, yet unsure how to change direction?  Or maybe you’ve struggled to truly find your voice in a world full of endless opinions?  In this week’s episode, I’m joined by public speaker, best selling author, and the CEO of Stay True Creative, Loren Lahav.  Loren has inspired and impacted thousands of people around the world and shared the stage with many of the world’s top thought leaders. Together we dive into the art of reinvention—how to shake things up when life’s path feels off-course, and the power of staying true to yourself through it all. Together, we tackle the importance of self-awareness, finding your voice, building unbreakable inner strength, and why it’s crucial to surround yourself with the right people. Loren’s wisdom will leave you ready to take on life with a new perspective. We wrap things up with three game-changing questions that could help spark your next breakthrough:  Am I adding light or darkness to the world?  If I say yes to this, am I staying true to myself?  (And when judgment creeps in,) is there something I don’t know? Join us for an empowering episode packed with insights and practical tools to help you live boldly and stay true to your authentic self! You can connect with this week’s guest via her website, lorenlahav.com or on IG - @IamLorenLahav   Book Mentions:  Stay True, Own Your Beautiful and Bad Ass Life,  by Loren Lahav   #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #Reinvention #StayTrueToYourself

In this profoundly touching episode, I am joined once again by my dear friend Neal Tricarico, founder of the Endurant Movement, as he opens his heart in part two of a powerful journey through loss, resilience, and spiritual transformation. Following the devastating loss of his 16-year-old son, Anthony, to suicide, Neal first shared his story in episode #75. Today, we go further, exploring the unexpected beauty of post-traumatic growth—how the deepest grief can spark spiritual insights, deepen our bonds with loved ones, and ultimately transform into a source of strength and purpose.   Together, we both share stories on the way those we’ve lost continue to touch our lives. Neal shares poignant moments of connection and the unmistakable signs he believes are messages from his son—small miracles that have brought him solace, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. This conversation is an invitation to anyone grieving to find healing in surprising places, to remain open to the presence of those who have passed, and to know that even in the darkest times, love endures.   Whether you’re on your own path of grief or walking alongside someone who is, join us as we explore how unimaginable loss can be transformed into resilience, connection, and the timeless power of love.   You can connect with this week’s guest via his email, [email protected] or on IG - @NealTricarico   Book Mentions:  Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe, by Laura Lynne Jackson   #PostTraumaticGrowth #SpiritualSigns #YouAreNotAlone #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #GriefAndHealing #BreakTheSilence #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #EndurantMovement

Approximately 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year, according to the World Health Organization, making suicide one of the leading causes of death globally, especially among the younger age groups.    In this week’s deeply moving episode, we honor Suicide Awareness Prevention Month with a conversation that resonates at the core of our shared humanity. Today’s guest, a fellow entrepreneur and dear friend, Neal Tricarico, is a father who tragically lost his 16-year-old son, Anthony, to suicide just a few months ago, bravely shares his raw and personal journey through unimaginable grief. Together, we explore the depths of healing, the weight of loss, and the importance of community support. He offers insight not only for parents who are navigating similar tragedies but also for teenagers who may be struggling in silence. This episode is a heartfelt call to action—a reminder that even in the darkest times, no one is alone. Let’s open our hearts, spread awareness, and start the conversations that could save lives.    You can connect with this week’s guest via his IG - @NealTricarico   #YouAreNotAlone #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #GriefAndHealing #BreakTheSilence #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #EndurantMovement Additional statistics: Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents (ages 10-19) in the United States, with rates increasing in recent years. Boys, especially those aged 15-19, are at a significantly higher risk of suicide than girls. In the U.S., boys represent about 78% of adolescent suicides. Increased mental health challenges during COVID-19: The pandemic exacerbated isolation, anxiety, depression, and family stress, all risk factors for suicide. For teens, disruptions to routines, schooling, and social lives were particularly harmful. Rise in suicide attempts and hospitalizations:  In 2020, there was a reported 31% increase in mental health emergency room visits for adolescents (ages 12-17), compared to 2019. Teens with high-functioning autism are at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Research indicates that **teens with ASD are nearly three times more likely** to attempt suicide compared to their neurotypical peers. These statistics underline the importance of awareness and targeted support for at-risk teens, particularly boys, those with autism, and those impacted by the pandemic's mental health effects.   RESOURCES: For anyone who might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or who want to help someone in need:   National and Global Crisis HOTLINES: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.) Dial 988 (available 24/7)  A free and confidential support line for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for individuals and families.     Crisis Text Line  Text "HELLO" to 741741 (U.S.)   Provides free, confidential crisis intervention via text message, available 24/7.        SAMHSA’s National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)**:   1-800-662-HELP (4357)  A confidential, free, 24-hour service for i ...