Best Adoptee Amplified Voices Podcasts (2025)

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From Coping to Healing: Adoptee Addictions and the Path to Wholeness 58:30

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5d ago58:30

58:30

In this heartfelt and honest episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore how coping mechanisms and addictions often develop as survival strategies for adoptees navigating loss, identity, and attachment wounds. Through personal stories and open conversation, we talk about how emotional and physical addictions can take root from people-pleas…

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AI Inclusion: Amplifying Diverse Voices in Workplace Transformation - Monica Marquez 35:31

6d ago35:31

35:31

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Monica Marquez, workplace AI strategist and founder of Flipwork Inc., shares insights on how organizations can adapt to AI-driven changes in the workplace through inclusive practices and human-centered transformation. She explains why companies struggle with AI adoption despite significant investments, poin…

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You Can't Prompt Taste: A Filmmaker's Take on AI - Dan Sickles 18:42

14d ago18:42

18:42

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Dan Sickles, award-winning filmmaker and founder of Depop Studios, shares his insights on incorporating AI into filmmaking while preserving artistic integrity. He discusses his approach to crafting narratives that center underrepresented communities and his vision for multidimensional storytelling through h…

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From Wild West to Workplace: How AI is Transforming Mid-Market Companies - Chris Daigle 34:04

20d ago34:04

34:04

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Chris Daigle, founder and CEO of Chief AI Officer, helps executive teams deploy real-world AI strategies that drive business results through his flagship Executive AI Immersion program, designed specifically for mid-market companies. • AI adoption is fundamentally different from previous tech waves because …

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Coming Into Consciousness: Gianna's Journey of Rebirth and Reclaiming Her Identity 55:55

20d ago55:55

55:55

In this deeply personal and moving episode, we sit down with Gianna Peterson, who vulnerably shares her story as a Korean American adoptee. Born in Busan, South Korea, Gianna was adopted at six months old and raised in a white adoptive family in New Jersey. She grew up with an older brother (her parents' biological son) and a younger sister adopted…

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Beyond Algorithms: Humanity's Role in AI Development - Alistair Lowe-Norris 40:32

27d ago40:32

40:32

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Alistair Lowe Norris, Chief Responsible AI Officer at Iridis, discusses how AI can be a positive force for change when built on ethical foundations, safety measures, and benefits for both people and planet. • Recipient of the President's Lifetime Achievement Award for his volunteer work addressing food inse…

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Breaking Free from Performance Traps - Radhika Dutt 27:58

1M ago27:58

27:58

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Radhika Dutt challenges traditional goal-setting frameworks and introduces OHLs (Objectives, Hypotheses, and Learnings) as a more effective alternative for today's knowledge workers who are solving complex puzzles rather than performing repetitive tasks. • Goals and targets originated in the 1940s for unski…

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✨ Face to Face with Truth: An Interview with Mindy, Korean American Adoptee & Intuitive Face Reader 1:12:24

1M ago1:12:24

1:12:24

In this inspiring episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Min-Ae (Mindy), a Korean American adoptee whose journey is marked by resilience, strength, and deep faith. Mindy is an intuitive face reader who uses her gifts to help people better understand themselves and others, illuminating personality traits, emotional tendencies, an…

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What Your Movement Reveals: The Future of Computer Vision 27:06

1M ago27:06

27:06

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Galvin Widjaja, founder and CEO of Lauretta AI, shares his journey from restaurant management to leading a privacy-first computer vision company that predicts human behavior without using biometrics. His unconventional path provides unique insights into building AI that respects privacy while effectively un…

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Unpacking Han, Finding Jeong: A Korean Adoptee Narrative 1:05:46

2M ago1:05:46

1:05:46

Welcome back to another vulnerable episode where we get really personal and dive into two concepts that have shaped our lives as Korean adoptees: Han and Jeong. You know those feelings you have that are too big for words? That's what Han and Jeong are for us. We'll be talking about how Han is the deep, unresolved grief and anger we feel—both indivi…

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Kirsten Mathis 3.0: Navigating Growth & Change as a Korean Adoptee 1:06:01

2M ago1:06:01

1:06:01

This week, we're joined by a returning guest and dear friend, Kirsten Mathis. We want to start by wishing Kirsten a very happy 40th birthday! In honor of her big day, let's all participate in her Birthday Love Challenge by making a commitment to show ourselves and others more love and compassion this week. In this powerful episode, Kirsten vulnerab…

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Capturing Unconditional Love for Pets: A New Way to Remember Pets with DNA is Love 55:02

3M ago55:02

55:02

Send us a text Have you ever wished you could hold onto a piece of your beloved pet forever? In this heartwarming episode, I sit down with Dave Latorra and Stephanie Ford, the innovative minds behind DNA is Love, a company that's revolutionizing the way we memorialize our furry friends. As a scientist with a PhD in molecular biology, Dave brings hi…

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Healing the Mother Wound and Finding Peace From Within 1:18:15

3M ago1:18:15

1:18:15

The Mother Wound: A Deep Dive into Loss, Love & Healing In this powerful and tender episode, we explore the mother wound, a wound that lives in the body, heart, and spirit of many adoptees. From the primal loss of our first mother to the complex dynamics with adoptive mothers, this episode opens a space for truth-telling, grief, compassion, and hea…

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Mike Malloy Returns: Psychedelic Healing, PTSD & the Adoption Journey 56:57

3M ago56:57

56:57

In this enlightening and deeply heartfelt follow-up episode, we welcome back Mike Malloy, a Korean American adoptee, veteran, and community builder. Mike returns to share his powerful experience with psilocybin-assisted therapy, originally sought to support his PTSD from military service, and how it unexpectedly brought long-buried aspects of his a…

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Cabinet office 2025: The People Factor: Understanding Hidden Risks in Organizational AI Adoption 20:05

3M ago20:05

20:05

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! The biggest challenges in AI implementation aren't the headline-grabbing risks but the hidden ones stemming from human factors and organizational dynamics. Drawing parallels to aviation safety, successful AI deployment requires understanding how people interact with these tools in complex organizational set…

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Studiosity 2025 - Digital Natives: How Students Are Navigating the AI Revolution in Higher Education 12:35

4M ago12:35

12:35

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Students worldwide are rapidly adopting AI tools for education, with Middle Eastern students leading this digital revolution. We unpack findings from a global survey of over 10,000 students, revealing how expectations, usage patterns, and concerns vary across regions. • 70% of students in Saudi Arabia and U…

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AI ACADEMY What Does It Mean to Know Something in the Age of AI? (UAE Green Paper 2024) 11:34

4M ago11:34

11:34

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! We explore the UAE's comprehensive green paper on generative AI in education, unpacking a multi-level framework that addresses both opportunities and challenges of AI integration in learning environments. This three-tiered approach examines policy, institutional implementation, and classroom experience to c…

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Paper Cuts and Power: Navigating Adoption Microaggressions 1:05:25

4M ago1:05:25

1:05:25

In this episode, Laurie and Claire delve into the nuanced topic of microaggressions within the adoption community. This discussion was inspired by a KAAN (Korean American Adoptee Adoptive Family Network) Conference workshop that Laurie and Claire attended. We want to help bring microaggressions into the light so that we can talk about them, normali…

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AI ACADEMY: Navigating Education's AI Frontier: Students, Teachers, and the Ethics of Learning (Turnitin 2024) 11:47

4M ago11:47

11:47

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Artificial intelligence isn't just changing education—it's creating a fascinating paradox that affects everyone involved. Our deep dive into a comprehensive global study reveals a striking contradiction: while 78% of students, educators, and administrators feel optimistic about AI's educational potential, a…

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Love beyond the Orphanage - Interview with Julie Duvall, Part 2 1:00:03

4M ago1:00:03

1:00:03

In this follow-up conversation, we welcome back Julie Duvall—an aged-out Korean orphan, late-life adoptee, and fierce advocate for adult Korean orphans. Julie returns to share more deeply about her ongoing journey of healing, faith, and purpose. We dive into the realities faced by those who grow up in orphanages without ever being adopted, and the …

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Marley's Mutts Launches New Veterans Therapy Program: Shelter Dogs Healing Others 44:49

4M ago44:49

44:49

Send us a text Are you ready to discover how rescued dogs are transforming the lives of veterans and first responders? In this eye-opening episode, I welcome back Connor Long, Operations Manager at Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue, to discuss their groundbreaking program, Troops N Tails. Connor shares his personal journey with equine therapy and how it in…

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Heading to KAAN: Calming Nerves and Connecting with our KAD Community 13:40

4M ago13:40

13:40

This week, join Laurie and Claire for a special mini-episode as they share their pre-KAAN conference jitters and excitement! Heading to a large conference, even one filled with supportive community, can bring on a mix of emotions. Laurie and Claire open up about their feelings and, in true Empowered Adoptee fashion, offer some quick and easy tools …

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EU Parliament 2025: The Future of AI: Balancing Innovation with Responsibility 37:03

4M ago37:03

37:03

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! Generative AI is transforming technology and reshaping our world by creating human-like content at unprecedented scale and speed. • EU ranks second globally in Gen AI academic publications but faces funding gaps for innovation • Technical foundations include deep learning architectures, specialized processo…

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AI ACADEMY: Prompt Wizards and Data Guardians: Making AI Work for Schools ( DfE June 2025) 20:02

4M ago20:02

20:02

Spill the tea - we want to hear from you! We take a comprehensive look at using artificial intelligence safely and effectively in education by examining guidance from the UK Department for Education and related sources. This deep dive unpacks the opportunities, challenges, and key considerations for anyone dealing with AI in educational settings. •…

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Why Do Breakups and Loss Hurt So Much—and How Do We Heal From Them? 57:39

4M ago57:39

57:39

In this powerful and validating episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore the real reasons why breakups and loss can feel so devastating—not just emotionally, but physically and biochemically. Whether it’s the end of a romantic relationship, the loss of a close friendship, estrangement, heartbreak activates some of the deepest parts of o…

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Understanding Self-Sabotaging Behavior As Adoptees 1:04:11

4M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

In this vulnerable episode, Laurie and Claire dive deep into the complex topic of self-sabotage, particularly among adoptees. We explore the subconscious strategies that lead us to undermine our own relationships and goals, often driven by fear and core wounds. Join us as we uncover the common triggers, patterns of behavior, and the beliefs that pe…

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Kari Rudd: A Whole New World, A Whole New Me 1:03:26

5M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Kari Rudd, a Korean adoptee based in Santa Barbara, California. Kari shares her transformative journey of searching for identity and belonging after her challenging experiences with adoption. Kari was adopted at around six months old into a family that faced significant struggles. After being removed from h…

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Adoptee Mental Health: Stories, Struggles & Strength 1:06:21

5M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we honor Mental Health Awareness Month by sharing personal stories from our own journeys with mental health as adoptees. We speak honestly about the challenges we’ve faced—grief, anxiety, depression, isolation—and the tools, practices, and moments of connection that helped us keep going. W…

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Julie Duvall's Journey as an Aged-Out Orphan in Korea: A Story of Seeking Family and Connection 1:08:14

5M ago1:08:14

1:08:14

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Julie Duvall, a Korean aged-out orphan who was adopted later in life. Julie’s unique perspective sheds light on the complexities of growing up in an orphanage in Korea and her journey through finding her way in life without any support from a family of her own. With heartfelt honesty, she shares her e…

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What Does AAPI Month Mean to Asian American Adoptees? 44:58

5M ago44:58

44:58

In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore a tender and complex question: “What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to Asian American adoptees?” For many of us, this month brings up a mix of celebration and sorrow — pride in our cultural roots, grief for what was lost, and sometimes uncertainty about where we belong. Together,…

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Shark Tank Success: Frame Your Feline's Journey to Fame 51:25

6M ago51:25

51:25

Send us a text Brian Vermeire and Kristina Hughes, founders of Frame Your Feline, return to the podcast to share their journey from creating innovative cat furniture to landing a spot on Shark Tank. • Frame Your Feline offers wall-mounted frames that cats naturally jump into, becoming "living masterpieces" • Traditional cat furniture takes up floor…

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Visiting Korea as an Adoptee: What No One Tells You 1:10:35

6M ago1:10:35

1:10:35

Get ready for an incredibly validating and eye-opening discussion for adoptees preparing for (or processing) a visit to Korea. Laurie and Claire share vulnerably about their experiences visiting Korea and all the feelings, emotions, and awarenesses around their journey back to their homeland as an adoptee. What to Expect in This Episode: Join Lauri…

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Understanding Attachment Styles as Adoptees: How Early Bonding Shapes Our Relationships 1:20:58

6M ago1:20:58

1:20:58

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore attachment theory—a powerful psychological framework that helps us understand how we connect, love, and feel safe in relationships. We take a closer look at the four core attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—and how these show up in the lives of adoptees. From ear…

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Vagus Nerve Activation Tools for Adoptees 24:26

6M ago24:26

24:26

In this episode, we delve into how adoptees can find their path back to calm and connection by tapping into the power of the vagus nerve. This crucial nerve helps regulate your nervous system and supports feelings of safety and belonging. Practicing these tools for just 10 minutes or less each day can significantly help improve your body's ability …

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Honoring Our Truth: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Findings & Their Impact on Adoptees 1:00:57

7M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

In this episode, we dive into the shocking findings of South Korea’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which has exposed systemic fraud and human rights violations in the country’s international adoption program. With over 140,000 Korean adoptees sent overseas, many under falsified circumstances, this revelation forces us to reexamine the ethica…

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A Panel Discussion with Nate Choi and Kirsten Mathis: Advocating For Our Rights and Expressing Our Truth 1:18:39

7M ago1:18:39

1:18:39

In this special panel discussion, we sit down with fellow Korean adoptees Nate Choi and Kirsten Mathis to explore the complexities of the adoptee experience—from finding strength in community to navigating deeply personal emotions. Together, we reflect on the importance of taking pauses, honoring our individual journeys, and creating safe spaces fo…

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State of Animal Welfare: Updates from Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue's Melissa Brunson 57:33

7M ago57:33

57:33

Send us a text Melissa Brunson, Executive Director of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue, returns to share critical updates on animal welfare in Southern California where shelters are facing overwhelming challenges. Kern County's 40% euthanasia rate reflects a system in crisis where happy, healthy dogs are being euthanized simply due to lack of space. Ways …

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Finding Safety in Uncertain Times: A Guided Meditation for Adoptees 21:32

7M ago21:32

21:32

Finding Safety in Uncertain Times: A Guided Meditation for Adoptees In this special episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, Laurie offers a gentle, grounding guided meditation to help adoptees regulate their nervous systems and cultivate a sense of safety amidst uncertainty. With so much unknown in the world, especially for Korean American adopte…

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Befriending Anxiety: Transforming Anxiety Into Self Trust 1:04:06

7M ago1:04:06

1:04:06

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore how befriending our anxiety can help us navigate the adoptee journey with more ease and self-compassion. Instead of seeing anxiety as something to fix or get rid of, we discuss how it can actually be a protector, a messenger, and even a guide to deeper self-awareness. We dive into how anx…

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Am I enough? Letting Go Of Unworthiness 1:12:37

7M ago1:12:37

1:12:37

In this episode, we dive into the complex emotions tied to feelings of unworthiness experienced by many adoptees and explore paths to healing and empowerment. By understanding primal wound theory, societal influences, and cultural displacement, we aim to uncover why these feelings emerge and how adoptees can reclaim their sense of self-worth. Lauri…

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Dear White Adoptive Families: Here's What We Want You To Know About Us 59:01

8M ago59:01

59:01

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast we’re amplifying adoptee voices to share what we want adoptive families to understand in order to help us feel truly supported and seen. Transnational and transracial adoptees often have complex, layered experiences that can be difficult to articulate to their adoptive families. While every adoptee’s…

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Healing, Identity, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Hollee A. McGinnis 54:19

8M ago54:19

54:19

In this powerful episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Hollee A. McGinnis, a Korean adoptee, educator, scholar, and healer with nearly 30 years of experience in adoption and child welfare. Hollee’s work focuses on amplifying adoptee perspectives, advocating for socially just child welfare policies, and supporting individual…

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How To Cultivate Unshakable Self-Love As An Adoptee 1:07:00

8M ago1:07:00

1:07:00

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of self-love from the unique perspective of Korean adoptees. Self-love isn’t just about bubble baths and positive affirmations—it’s about creating safety, trust, and embodiment. Join us as we share our personal experiences and practical tips for cultivating a deep and unconditional love for ourselves. …

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From Adoption to Advocacy: Leah Brighton’s Journey of Reconnection & Leadership 56:48

8M ago56:48

56:48

In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Leah Brighton, a Korean Canadian adoptee, passionate advocate, and the founder of the first adoptee-led organization in Canada. As the President of the Asian Adoptees of Canada, Leah has been instrumental in creating spaces where adoptees can connect, learn, and embrace their histor…

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Breaking Boundaries: Rob 'Loebz' on His KAD Journey Through Hip Hop and B-Boy Culture 1:00:35

9M ago1:00:35

1:00:35

In this episode, we sit down with Rob ‘Loebz,’ a talented Korean Canadian b-boy, to explore his inspiring journey through hip hop culture and dance. Rob shares his experiences growing up as a Korean adoptee (KAD) in Canada, navigating questions of identity, and finding a sense of belonging within the global b-boy and hip hop community. What you can…

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Kaleena Bliss: A KAD Following Her Culinary Passion From Pacific Northwest To Top Chef 50:16

9M ago50:16

50:16

In this episode, Laurie and Claire are joined by Kaleena Bliss, a KAD who grew up in WA and is now living and working in Chicago as an executive chef. Kaleena shares her experiences navigating racism and identity challenges, how building relationships with other Asians helped to foster a sense of belonging and pride for her heritage, and the impact…

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Animal Voices Amplified A New Season of Heartwarming Pet Stories 7:15

9M ago7:15

7:15

Send us a text Welcome back to the Story of My Pet Podcast! After a brief hiatus, I'm thrilled to return with a fresh season filled with heartwarming pet stories and spotlights on remarkable animal organizations. As your host, Julie Marty-Pearson, I'm eager to share how this podcast has not only grown but also profoundly impacted my own life and th…

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How Adoption Impacts our Relationships: Part Two 1:03:17

9M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

After the incredible response to our first episode on how adoption impacts relationships, we’re diving even deeper into this important topic. In this heartfelt follow-up, Laurie and Claire explore the lasting effects of adoption on attachment styles, emotional intimacy, and relationship dynamics, sharing new insights from their personal journeys. W…

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How To Manifest Anything You Want in 2025 50:43

9M ago50:43

50:43

What are you bringing into 2025? When it comes to manifestation, how do we know we are doing it right? Join Laurie and Claire on their very first episode of season 2, kicking off a brand new year! This just might be the podcast episode that will help you transform your life, re-write your narrative, and manifest that thing you have always wanted in…

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Highlights From Our Guests in 2024 46:23

10M ago46:23

46:23

In this final podcast episode of this Season 1, Laurie and Claire reflect and highlight some of our guests over the year. Join us while we share some of the messages, lessons, and special moments from our beloved guests that we have treasured and taken to heart. Freeing Your Voice: A Journey with Phoenix Song, Trans Korean Adoptee and Sound Healer …