Brian Smith: On Grief and Growth

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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Overcoming the Foster Care System Shameeka Baptist’s story is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. Shameeka talks about her tumultuous journey through the foster care system, the abuse she endured, and how she rose above her circumstances to become a beacon of hope for others. Shameeka’s story is one of childhood neglect and abuse.  But despite the odds stacked against her, including a period of homelessness after aging out of foster care, Shameeka’s resilience shines through.  Today, Shameeka is a four-time self-published author and an inspirational speaker. She is a mother and a role model who proves that the past does not have to define the future. Her message is clear: no matter how bad things seem, there is always a way forward, and you are never alone in your struggles. 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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

Finding Harmony in the Unexpected Vincent James is an engineer turned music education advocate. this podcast he shares his journey from the structured world of technology to his heart felt journey into the world of music. From childhood, Vincent was drawn to music. But the practicalities of life led him into a successful engineering career. But his heart remained in music. After several attempts to follow his heart, Vincent finally decided to leave engineering.                                            "Feel the fear and do it anyway."   Vincent’s story is a testament to the transformative power of music, from its ability to connect with our deepest emotions to enhancing cognitive abilities and social skills. Join us for an inspiring and even lyrical conversation.   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: ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️  ➡️   

When life throws a curveball, some see a setback, but others like Kaneshi Hart see an opportunity. Five years ago, Kaneshi was climbing the corporate ladder, enjoying the fruits of a successful career, and traveling internationally. Life seemed set on a promising trajectory. Yet, as many of us have experienced, stability can be fleeting. A series of layoffs, a toxic work environment, and a global pandemic later, Kanesha found herself at a crossroads. She decided to take an entrepreneurial route. The episode unfolds Kaneshi’s story with raw honesty and vulnerability. She talks about being laid off not once, but twice within two years, and how these bumps in her road led her to question the path she was on, and to wonder what else was out there. Were events  a streak of bad luck or a nudge towards a different calling? Come listen in.     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 what it truly means to transform your life?  Meet Nicole Byars, a woman whose journey epitomizes the essence of personal transformation and the power of self-discovery. Nicole’s story begins in the familiar corridors of high achievement and people-pleasing. Raised in a family that valued success, she followed a path that many of us know all too well: striving for academic excellence, attending a prestigious university, and landing a job in corporate America. Yet, beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect life, Nicole grappled with an eating disorder and a marriage that left her feeling lost and alone. This episode is an invitation to reflect on our own lives. Nicole’s experiences prompt us to ask ourselves: Are we living in alignment with our hearts? Are we taking care of ourselves as we should? And most importantly, are we open to the changes that life inevitably brings? #personaldevelopment #yoga #anorexia       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:  

The Grief Revolution   How does one navigate grief? How do you support someone going through this process? Aly Bird, a young widow turned grief advocate, shares her transformative journey through loss and the powerful lessons she’s learned. Her story is not just one of sorrow, but of resilience, community, and the courage to rewrite the rules of life. Aly delves into the depth of human attachment, the complexities of mourning, and the hope that lies within grief. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the grief revolution. Tune in now for an episode that promises to touch hearts and change minds. You can learn more about grief through Aly’s book, Grief Ally: .   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:  

An Accident, An Injury and A Purpose   Jessica’s life was transformed when her car was t-boned in a horrific accident. Waking up in the hospital with a broken neck, multiple pelvic fractures, and a severe brain injury, she was faced with a prognosis that spelled a lifetime of dependency and limitations. But Jessica’s narrative doesn’t end there; it’s where her true journey begins. Jessica’s story is not just about physical recovery; it’s about the mental and emotional metamorphosis that occurs when one is pushed to the edge. It’s about rediscovering oneself, overcoming deep doubt, and learning to create a new life.   “Imagination is really the start of being able to create the life that you want and really create anything in life.”   In spite of a grim prognosis that projected Jessica’s days of independence were over, Jessica healed and completed her bachelor’s degree. She lives independently and runs her own business. This conversation is about self-awareness and empowerment. Jessica’s insights into the power of thought, the importance of self-love, and the art of imagination offer a roadmap for anyone looking to transform their life from within. Join us in a remarkable discussion of self awareness and empowerment that can come from 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: