Best MELISSA VERA Podcasts (2025)

In this heartwarming episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera shares how a week of decluttering turned into a week of reconnection. When her husband Raul took time off to help clean out their old barn, what started as a simple project became a reminder of how clearing physical clutter can refresh both your home and your heart. Meliss…

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Groomed: One Author’s Mission to Shed Light on Male Survivors 45:47

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1d ago45:47

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa engages with Jodi, the author of 'Groomed', to discuss the often-overlooked topic of grooming, particularly in males. They explore the emotional manipulation involved in grooming, the personal story that inspired the book, and the importance of community and male perspectives in addressing …

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Groomed: Understanding the Hidden Tactics of Manipulation and Finding Hope Beyond Abuse 17:12

4d ago17:12

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa introduces the upcoming episode of chatting with Jody the author of Groomed to unpack one of the most misunderstood and manipulative forms of abuse—grooming. Together, they break down what grooming really looks like, how it starts, and the subtle ways abusers gain control through t…

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Richmond's Biggest Celebrity is a Cat (Where's Francine, Turnstile at Browns Island, Hadad's lake, walkable RVA, Carytown pedestrians, etc) - Unscripted #015 54:34

7d ago54:34

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Richmond’s unofficial (maybe official now?) mascot went missing, and the city can’t stop talking about it. We open with Francine, the Lowe’s cat — security footage, petitions, interstate rumors—and what a community chooses to call “news.” From there, the episode ricochets through rideshare absur…

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Civilians in Combat: A Unique Perspective with Keith Richard 51:21

9d ago51:21

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, the host engages with Keith, a civilian who served in Iraq during the war, discussing his experiences and insights from his book, 'Sand, Grit, and Dangerous Supply Missions.' Keith shares the challenges faced by civilians in military operations, the emotional toll of war, and the importance of recognizi…

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When Ordinary People Face Extraordinary Circumstances 11:53

11d ago11:53

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In this preview episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera introduces her powerful conversation with Keith Richard, a civilian employee who managed logistics in war-torn Iraq. Keith shares his experiences, lessons in courage and leadership, and what it truly means to serve behind the scenes. Tune in for a story that redefines resilienc…

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Own Your Mess: Why Respect (and Accountability) Still Matter 9:19

14d ago9:19

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When an Amazon driver drove through my ditch, broke the pipe under the highway, and tore up my yard — then drove away without a word — it got me thinking about respect, responsibility, and why accountability matters more than ever. In this fiery episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, I share the story, call out the need for big companies (and all of…

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Richmond is Keeping Secrets at City Hall, Carillon etc (SWAT raids, water crisis, FOIA requests, traffic surveillance, biceps 4 jesus) - Unscripted #013 1:07:39

14d ago1:07:39

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Richmond might be keeping secrets — or trying to. We trace a week where public records stall at City Hall, deleted plant videos fuel citizen sleuthing, and new red-light cameras multiply in the name of safety. At dawn, a Nextdoor rumor sends us to the Carillon lawn, where we explore a free men’s…

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Cat Overpopulation Crisis: Spay, Neuter & Save Lives 47:33

16d ago47:33

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa sits down with Chiquita from the Traps to Laps program to tackle the urgent issue of cat overpopulation. Together, they share heartfelt stories about rescue work, fostering, and the challenges of kitten season. The conversation dives deep into: Why spaying and neutering is vital for reducin…

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Love Them Furever: Why Adoption Matters 10:05

18d ago10:05

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This Wednesday on Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa sits down with Chiquita Taylor, founder of Traps to Laps, for a powerful conversation about responsible pet parenting and why adopting — not shopping — saves lives. In this preview, Melissa shares why this conversation matters and teases the heartfelt stories Chiquita will tell about rescuing dog…

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The Two Words That Cut the Deepest: Why ‘Bad Mom’ Hurts So Much 24:05

19d ago24:05

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera gets real about the two words that have the power to break her: “Bad Mom.” Melissa opens up about the guilt, self-doubt, and emotional weight moms carry, and how a single comment can trigger feelings of failure. She shares her personal journey of motherhood, the sacrifices, a…

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Richmond Before the Rebrand (6th Street ghosts, RVA parties, Scott’s Addition, and broken elevators) - Unscripted #012 1:06:20

21d ago1:06:20

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Richmond as home base, myth as mirror. We open with the so-called “Richmond curse”—the urban legend that no matter how far you go, you end up back here—and why distance (and a little travel) clarifies what the city actually offers now: a growing riverfront, an amphitheater era, and momentum that…

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Rediscovering Yourself After Motherhood | Karen Johnson on Mom Guilt, Identity & Self-Discovery 49:28

22d ago49:28

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa sits down with Karen Johnson, author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? and Other Thoughts from a 40-something Mom, to explore the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood. Karen opens up about her journey as a stay-at-home mom, her battles with mom guilt, and the identity cri…

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Mom Guilt: Turning the “Shoulds” Into Grace 31:12

25d ago31:12

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Ever find yourself replaying the “I should have…” reel in your head on repeat? In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa dives deep into the messy, universal feeling of mom guilt—where it comes from, why it sticks, and how to gently shift from shame to grace. Melissa shares three grounding truths about mom guilt, plus her five…

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Oddities Beneath Richmond (hidden springs, buried trains, lost ballpark, dating apps, Short Pump, and more) - Unscripted #011 1:07:49

28d ago1:07:49

1:07:49

Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Richmond keeps secrets. This episode pulls them up to the surface—starting with Mayo Island: once a downtown ballpark where legends supposedly launched homers into passing train cars, now a $15M city purchase slated to become public parkland. From there we trace riverfront moves to Browns Island…

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Thirty Years in a Blink: Reflections on Watching My Oldest Turn 30 14:13

28d ago14:13

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa reflects on a milestone moment — her oldest child turning 30. She shares tender memories of firsts and lasts, the bittersweet journey of letting go, and how quickly the years seem to fly by once you’re on the other side of them. This episode is for every parent who’s ever been told, “I…

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Turning Conflict Into Connection: Mindset Shifts & Strategies with Dana Caspersen 50:37

1M ago50:37

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa sits down with conflict engagement specialist Dana to unpack the topic most of us try to avoid—conflict. Together, they explore how conflict can be transformed into an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding. You’ll learn practical strategies for parents, mindset shifts to …

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It’s Not About You: Reframing Conflict and Finding Peace 14:18

1M ago14:18

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares a personal story of a road rage encounter that left her shaken and frustrated — until she realized the moment wasn’t about her at all. Melissa explores how reframing conflict can transform anger into empathy, offering practical insight for navigating everyday tensions with more grace…

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Richmond Vampire & Hidden Trains (VCU discoveries, Watermelon Festival, Texas Beach, RVA311, and more) - Unscripted #010 1:07:52

1M ago1:07:52

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Richmond’s folklore runs deep — and in this episode we dig up a few of the city’s strangest myths and modern problems side by side. We start with the infamous Richmond Vampire and the buried train beneath Church Hill, exploring how urban legends take root when tragedy and mystery overlap. From t…

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Every Life Matters: Why We Can’t Cherry-Pick Our Outrage 23:40

1M ago23:40

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esterday’s shootings broke Melissa’s heart – but what upset her even more was realizing how selective we’ve become about which tragedies get our outrage. In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa speaks candidly about the Colorado school shooting that barely made the news, the Minnesota state senator and her enti…

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Turning Pain Into Purpose: Christina H. Wilson’s Memoir Believe 46:52

1M ago46:52

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with Christina H. Wilson, author of the memoir Believe. What began as personal stories for her children grew into a powerful memoir about resilience, love, blended family life, and navigating grief with faith and gratitude. Christina shares her journey of turning pa…

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Preparing Our Hearts to Believe: Resilience, Gratitude, and Family 18:55

1M ago18:55

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In this solo episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera reflects on the themes of resilience, gratitude, and the power of family during life’s hardest seasons. Melissa shares personal insights on navigating grief, embracing blended family dynamics, and finding hope through faith and gratitude. This heartfelt conversation prepares liste…

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Richmond’s Forgotten Mummy (government hostages, ADD brains, speedhumping chaos, rva cold cases) - Unscripted #009 57:06

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here We open with the strange saga of Richmond’s forgotten mummy — a body left under bricks for nearly two decades before anyone thought to ask questions. From there, the conversation spirals into the absurd and the political: the story of Eric Morales Garcia, the man who locked government officials …

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From Soil to Soul: Andy Becker’s Insights on Spiritual Gardening 52:39

1M ago52:39

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with Andy Becker, author of The Spiritual Gardener, to explore the beautiful intersection of spiritual gardening, Jewish tradition, and everyday life lessons we can cultivate from the soil. 🌱 Together, they dive into how gardening can be both therapeutic and spiritual, offeri…

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Nurturing Our Spiritual Gardens: Finding Joy, Healing, and Growth in Difficult Times 19:36

1M ago19:36

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores the importance of tending to our spiritual gardens, especially in the wake of heavy events like gun violence. She reflects on how intentional self-care, mental health awareness, and nurturing joy and compassion can help us stay grounded and resilient. Using the metaphor of gar…

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Gun Violence in America: Mental Health & Change 26:44

2M ago26:44

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera tackles one of America’s most urgent societal issues: gun violence. Drawing from personal stories and national headlines, Melissa explores the intersection of mental health, mass shootings, and responsible gun ownership. She challenges the narrative that blames immigration for viol…

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Shining Your Light in Dark Places | Faith, Kindness & Hannah More’s Legacy 27:48

2M ago27:48

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores what it truly means to shine your light where it’s needed most. Inspired by the book Five Mere Christians, Melissa reflects on the power of showing kindness and love in dark places rather than where light already exists. She shares the inspiring story of Hannah More, a woman o…

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The Importance of Flow: Why Your Body Remembers What Your Mind Ignores | Lamha Cumasach #008 42:57

2M ago42:57

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Veronica Jones never set out to be a massage therapist — she stumbled into it by accident. What began as a way to make money became a calling, a path to healing that combines bodywork, intuition, and holistic care. As the founder of Lahma Cumasach, Veronica now guides women and mothers through m…

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Breathing for Mental Health: Daily Practices to Overcome Anxiety & Phobias with Christopher Paul Jones 46:23

2M ago46:23

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera sits down with expert Christopher Paul Jones to talk about how breathing can help manage anxiety, phobias, and everyday stress. They explore the science of breathwork, heart math, and emotional regulation, and share simple daily practices that make a big difference for mental health. Whethe…

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Breathwork Transformation | My First Session at Happy Camp with Katie Wee + Outlander Moment 12:57

2M ago12:57

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera shares her very first experience with breathwork during a full session at Happy Camp with Katie Wee. What started as an hour of simply focusing on her breath turned into something much more powerful—an immersive journey that felt like stepping into an Outlander scene, where Claire runs…

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Faith, Resilience, and Lego: Lessons from Ole Kirk Christiansen 23:48

2M ago23:48

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera reflects on the inspiring life of Ole Kirk Christiansen, the founder of LEGO. From devastating factory fires to heartbreaking personal losses, Ole Kirk’s journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and perseverance. Melissa shares how Christiansen’s unwavering belief in leaving things…

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Hot Boy Richmond Summer (Farmer's markets, Nascar, Jay walking, VCU, Cycling & Fake Wrestling) - Unscripted #007 47:56

2M ago47:56

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here We kick off Richmond’s “Hot Boy Summer” with a debate over whether NASCAR’s raw chaos outshines F1’s polished precision, and why endurance athletes willingly subject themselves to cycling’s masochistic grind in the name of “Type II fun.” From there, we stumble into the absurdity of pedestrian pl…

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Protests, Legal Rights & Immigration: What You Need to Know with David Secular 57:19

2M ago57:19

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with David, a criminal defense attorney and author, to explore the intersection of protests, legal rights, immigration, and law enforcement. From knowing your civil liberties during protests to understanding the do’s and don’ts when confronted by law enforcement, this convers…

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Standing Up: Lessons from Fannie Lou Hamer for Today 29:17

2M ago29:17

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera explores the life and legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer—a courageous leader in the civil rights movement whose voice still inspires change today. Through her unwavering faith, resilience, and fearless advocacy, Hamer became a symbol of hope, social justice, and community empowerment. Melissa share…

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How to Stay Hopeful in Difficult Times | Resilience, Faith & Finding Joy 24:09

2M ago24:09

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In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera opens up about the importance of hope, resilience, and community during challenging times. Drawing from her personal journey with anxiety, Melissa shares heartfelt stories that highlight how faith, kindness, and compassion can make a difference—not only in our own lives but in the worl…

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Uncovering Family Roots & Generational Resilience with Caroline Topperman 1:01:17

2M ago1:01:17

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with returning guest Carolyn Topperman to explore the importance of understanding our roots and preserving our identity. Carolyn shares her emotional journey to Poland, where she uncovered her family’s history and confronted the impact of generational trauma. Togethe…

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The Art (and Grit) of Doing Kitchens Right in Richmond | James River Kitchens #006 51:45

2M ago51:45

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here Bradley Jones and Caleb Attalah left the comfort of a big-box retailer to build something better: James River Kitchens. In this conversation, they share the pivotal lunch that sparked their business, the values that set them apart, and the lessons learned from years of creating kitchens that pai…

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Filling Your Emotional Cup: Finding Hope, Letting Go, and Embracing Joy 31:21

2M ago31:21

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What’s in your emotional cup right now—worry or hope? 💛 In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares personal stories of loss, rediscovery, and the small but powerful reminders—like treasured family heirloom teacups—that teach us to let go of fear and fill our lives with faith, joy, and positivity. ✨ You’ll hear: How …

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From Keys to Care: Making Senior Transitions Easier for Virginia Families | Tehran Jones #005 36:45

2M ago36:45

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here From growing up in Richmond, Virginia’s Jackson Ward and the projects of Gilpin Court, to breaking a cycle of incarceration, Tehran “Tye” Jones has lived a story of resilience, redemption, and relentless drive. In this powerful conversation, Myke sits down with Tye as he opens up about his fathe…

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Living Your Faith Through Kindness Inspired by Mister Rogers 35:59

2M ago35:59

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores why kindness and compassion are more important than ever. Drawing inspiration from Mister Rogers, Melissa reflects on how we can quietly live out our faith—without judgment—and lead with love in every interaction. She shares how small acts of understanding can make a…

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From Corporate Life to Allergy Advocate: MG Colangelo' s Journey as a Food Allergy Mom 1:03:56

2M ago1:03:56

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with MG Colangelo— a passionate coach, mother, and fierce advocate for children with severe food allergies. 🌿 MG opens up about her life-changing journey from a corporate career to becoming a full-time food allergy advocate after her son was diagnosed with life-thre…

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Richmond Poop Water, Leo the Mobster, Ancient Pyramids, and Other Fun Tales - Unscripted #004 52:56

3M ago52:56

52:56

Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here We start with Richmond's ambitious plan to fix the James River's decades-long sewage problem, but somehow end up exploring everything from naked beach regulars to ancient pyramid conspiracies. Our studio's wild past as Smitty's bar reveals a darker side of Richmond history involving Leo Joseph C…

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Broadway Meets Children’s Books: Why Music Education & Representation Matter with David Weiser 47:29

3M ago47:29

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🎙️ In this inspiring episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with David—a Broadway talent turned children’s book author—to explore the powerful intersection of music, storytelling, and education. 🎶 From center stage to the pages of picture books, David shares his unique journey and passion for making music accessible and i…

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Leading with Compassion in a Divided World 27:51

3M ago27:51

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores why compassion is more important than ever in today’s world. As fear and division seem to dominate the headlines, Melissa invites listeners to pause and reflect on the healing power of kindness, gratitude, and human connection. Through personal stories and honest ref…

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Justice, Prejudice & the Power of Storytelling with David G. Secular 55:58

3M ago55:58

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In this thought-provoking episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera welcomes David, a former criminal defense attorney turned author, to discuss his gripping novel A Hate Crime in Brooklyn. David shares his unique journey from practicing law to writing fiction, and how his legal background shaped the powerful themes in his debut book.…

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Ditching Her 9-to-5 to Build a 70K Food Brand on Instagram | Katie Brown #003 43:54

3M ago43:54

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Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here In this episode, Myke sits down with Katie Brown, a local Richmond founder of Real Food With Gratitude, to dive deep into her journey from corporate sales to building a 70K follower food brand on Instagram. Katie shares the brutal honest truth about content creation, the pivot from photography t…

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From Grief to Joy: Alexandria’s Journey After Loss 54:50

4M ago54:50

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In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera talks with Alexandria about her powerful journey of healing after her husband’s suicide. Alexandria opens up about navigating profound grief, parenting through pain, and ultimately discovering a renewed purpose—helping others find joy even in the darkest seasons. Together, th…

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414: Justice & the West Memphis Three: Dan Stidham on Wrongful Convictions & Redemption 52:55

4M ago52:55

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In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with attorney, author, and judge Dan Stidham to discuss the infamous West Memphis Three case and his decades-long pursuit of justice. Dan opens up about the emotional toll of wrongful convictions, the critical role DNA evidence played, and the impact public pressure …

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Richmond Restaurants: Fires, Failures, and Fortune (Shockoe Bottom, Kava Club, Brenner Pass, AI artists & the future of culture) - Unscripted #002 49:57

4M ago49:57

49:57

Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text here A fire ripped through Shockoe Bottom this week, engulfing The Daily Menu and forcing neighboring businesses to shut their doors. But the story doesn’t end with the smoke. In this episode, we dig into the real issues at the heart of Richmond’s downtown decline—from empty night markets and neglect…