In this inspiring episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts welcomes Stephanie Carmody—PR veteran, podcast host, and author-in-progress—for a candid conversation about healing, faith, and embracing new beginnings. Stephanie shares her journey through bullying, toxic relationships, and personal loss, revealing how she transformed pain into purpose and found strength in her faith. Together, Dave and Stephanie discuss the power of self-love, the importance of community, and the courage it takes to reinvent oneself in midlife. Listeners will be moved by Stephanie’s honesty, resilience, and her message that it’s never too late to start a new chapter. Tune in for heartfelt insights, practical wisdom, and a celebration of second acts.

Stephanie's Bio and Contact Information

With more than two decades of experience in brand and celebrity public relations across New York, Boston, and Los Angeles, Stephanie Carmody has carved out a career defined by creativity, connection, and heart. From orchestrating red carpet events like the Country Music Association Awards and the Daytime Emmys, to managing multi-million dollar campaigns for global brands such as Procter & Gamble, her professional journey has been anything but ordinary.

Stephanie’s work in PR placed her alongside some of the most recognized names in entertainment and media—Kevin Hart, John Legend, Giada De Laurentiis, Martha Stewart, and Tim Gunn among them—yet her true gift lies in elevating stories with authenticity and grace. Her ability to fuse strategic thinking with emotional intelligence led to award-winning cause marketing programs, national media coverage, and meaningful brand partnerships.

In 2013, Stephanie founded Très Chic Events, a boutique event planning company born from her love of love stories, families, and celebration. She quickly became known for creating intimate, one-of-a-kind events that reflected each client’s unique style, while maintaining a strong editorial sensibility and impeccable attention to detail. Her work was featured in top-tier media, and she became a monthly lifestyle contributor on NBC Connecticut’s morning program.

Today, Stephanie continues to blend passion with purpose in her latest venture: Second Act Sessions, a bi-weekly lifestyle podcast dedicated to exploring life’s bold reinventions. After navigating a major life transition, Stephanie dives headfirst into her next chapter—unfiltered and wide open. On Second Act Sessions, she shares the chaotic, hilarious, and sometimes painful path to rediscovering peace, love, and purpose.

Fueled by curiosity and a passion for growth, Stephanie brings on guests from all walks of life for real, refreshing conversations that cover everything from wellness and relationships to culture, faith, and reinvention. From messy moments to inspiring breakthroughs, each episode explores what it means to start over with intention, faith, and a renewed sense of self. Buckle up—your second begins now.

Connect with Stephanie Carmody:

Website: https://secondactsessions.com

Instagram: @stephaniefcarmody

Podcast: Second Act Sessions (available on all major platforms)

To find out more about Dave, please go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page , psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts interviews American actor Jock McKissic. They discuss Jock's extensive work in television and film, his book '50 Principles to Thrive in Life,' and the influences that shaped his current life path. Jock shares stories about growing up in Opelika, Alabama, learning from his mother and mentors such as Clemson University’s Dabo Sweeney. He also elaborates on the importance of hard work, spirituality, short-term memory for overcoming rejection, and maintaining confidence through preparation. Key highlights include the concept of 'spiritual two-a-days' from his college football days and the impact of various mentors in both his athletic and acting careers.

Jock’s Bio and Contact Information

Jock McKissic is an American actor known for his powerful screen presence in both television and film. He has recurred in Showtime/Netflix’s Your Honor alongside Bryan Cranston, Paramount+’s Mayor of Kingstown with Jeremy Renner, and Hulu/FX’s Clipped opposite Laurence Fishburne. His credits also include Law & Order: SVU, S.W.A.T., Station 19, The Resident, and films such as Breaking News in Yuba County, Bliss, Tag, and Superintelligence. Off-screen, McKissic is an activist, community leader, and Best-Selling Author of 50 Principles to Thrive in Life. The book entails life lessons McKissic learned while growing up in Opelika AL, while attending Clemson University as an accomplished football player & beyond.

Connect with Jock McKissic:

• Book: “50 Principles to Thrive in Life” on Amazon
• Instagram & Twitter: @J50 (J-A-Y-F-I-F-T-Y)
• LinkedIn & Facebook: Jock McKissic

To find ourt more about dave, go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts interviews Marchem Pfeiffer, a U.S. Air Force veteran, author, and emotional leadership strategist. Marchem discusses his experiences in the military, the challenges faced by veterans transitioning back to civilian life, and the high rates of PTSD, depression, and divorce among military families. He also delves into the importance of integrity, the impact of frequent moves on military families, and the identity shifts veterans undergo post-service. Additionally, Marchem talks about his book 'Navigating Leadership from Toxicity to Triumph' and emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and effective leadership. The episode concludes with Marchem offering advice on personal growth and transformation.

Bio and Contact Information

Marchem Pfeiffer, a U.S. Air Force veteran, author, and emotional leadership strategist who brings a grounded, authentic voice to conversations about life after service.

Marchem enlisted at 17 and served as a Senior Airman before transitioning into leadership roles supporting military members as Director of Education Services for the Ohio National Guard. His work involved managing crisis response, GI Bill access, and suicide prevention, giving him firsthand insight into the emotional burdens many veterans face.

Today, Marchem speaks openly about PTSD, identity loss, and rebuilding after military life. He’s the creator of the CORE Alignment Index and author of Navigating Leadership: From Toxicity to Triumph

www.marchempfeiffer.com

Social Links

linkedin.com/in/marchempfeiffer

facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575845657641

Medium: medium.com/@marchempfeiffer12

Book:amazon.com/dp/B0F9FTCYRZ

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts welcomes veteran film producer and philanthropist Peter Samuelson. They discuss Peter's journey from filmmaking to philanthropy, highlighting his work with several non-profits including the Starlight Children Foundation and First Star Academies. The conversation explores Peter's philosophy on helping the less fortunate, particularly abused and neglected children, and delves into his new book 'Finding Happy: A User's Guide To Your Life.' The discussion also covers themes of critical thinking, the responsibility of elders to guide younger generations, and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. Peter shares anecdotes from his life and offers practical advice for young people on navigating life's challenges.

Peter’s Bio and Contact Information

 Peter is a veteran film producer behind more than two dozen feature films, including cult classics like Revenge of the Nerd. and Viv and Arlington Road. He is a trailblazing, philanthropist, and a social entrepreneur who has spent decades using storytelling and innovation to change lives. He has founded seven groundbreaking non-profits, including co-founding the Starlight Children Foundation and Starboard World Online Network. He is the founder of the First Star Academies that partners with universities and local CPS to house, educate, inspire, and enable foster youth while in high school, and to prepare them for college and to self-advocate. He also launched EDR. The Everyone Deserves a Roof Initiative. To provide shelter for the unhoused and Aspire, a media training academy for undergraduates outside of traditional film schools built on the values of social responsibility. And now he's added author to the List, his new book, finding Happy A User's Guide To Your Life With Lessons From Mind as Part Memoir, part Life Manual Offering Hard Won Wisdom for Millennials, gen X, and anyone looking to live more meaningfully in a chaotic world. Peter has been married to his wife Saryl for 35 years and continues to fight every day for those less fortunate chief among them, abused and neglected children.

Learn more about Peter Samuelson and "Finding Happy":

Website: https://www.samuelson.la

Book: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, ebook, and audiobook formats.

To find out more about Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with author Kimberly De Jong to explore her journey of faith, resilience, and community. Kimberly shares personal stories of overcoming health challenges, the inspiration behind her devotional book "Trusting God Through Life's Transitions," and the importance of compassion and support during difficult times. Listeners will be encouraged by her wisdom, hope, and the power of sharing our stories.

Kimberly’s Bio and Contact Information

Kimberly A. De Jong’s journey of faith has been shaped by her parents, who raised her in the church, a faith which she remains steadfast to this day.

She enjoys quilting, reading, and spending time with her 6 grandchildren, when she is not writing.

She lives with her husband of forty-nine years, Phil, in Central California. Her first book Trusting God Through Life’s Transitions is a collection of devotions she has written to provide Comfort, Hope, and Sisterhood to women facing struggles in their lives.

She hopes to publish her memoir “With Me in the Storm” in 2026. It is about her relationship with her mom and her brain tumor story.

To Connect With Kimberly:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kimberly.DeJong.927/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Kimberlyannedejong

website: https://kimberlyadejong.com

Email: kadejong215@gmail.com

Amazon: https://a.co/d/40pEuDb

To find out more about Dave please go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts talks with Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa de Silva, a psychotherapist, author, and founder of Advocate to Create. They discuss Dr. Pat's unique career journey into mental health, her book 'Why Are We Fighting?' which introduces the IIAP model (Intention, Action, Perception), and her specialization in grief, trauma, and couples therapy. The conversation delves deeply into the unique challenges of suicide grief, the stigmatization survivors face, and practical strategies for coping, such as 'memory in the pocket' and the cognitive balance approach. Dr. Pat emphasizes the importance of letting people in, seeking support, and understanding that grief is not a linear process. They also discuss how the IIAP model can help in resolving miscommunications, especially within grieving families. The podcast concludes with Dr. Pat offering advice on creating supportive environments for survivors and her contact information for further resources

Dr Pat's Bio and Contact Information

Dr. Patricia Timerman Barbosa da Silva is a psychotherapist, author, and founder of Advocate2Create. In her book, Why Are We Fighting?, she introduces the IAP Model—Intention, Action, Perception, a “Google Translate” for communication. With over 12 years of experience, she specializes in grief, trauma, and couples therapy, integrating research-backed strategies to improve relationships. She also provides clinical evaluations for immigration cases, combining her mental health expertise with her background in immigration law.

Connect with Dr. Pat: Website: https://advocate2create.com

Book: "Why Are We Fighting? Actionable Strategies for Effective Communication" (Available on Amazon)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-patricia-timerman-barbosa-da-silva-302084156/

https://www.instagram.com/advocate2create/

https://www.facebook.com/Advocate2Create

To find out more about Dave, please go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, hosted by Dave Roberts, the guest is Diana Fritz, a dynamic executive leader, cancer thriver, and advocate for authenticity and resilience. Together, they discuss the lessons Diana has learned from her personal and professional journey, including her battle with cancer, single parenthood, and leadership experiences. Diana shares insights into how life's toughest challenges can foster growth and self-worth, and highlights the importance of authenticity in leadership. She also discusses her book, 'Uniquely Imperfect, Uniquely Qualified,' which offers reflections and application questions for readers navigating adversities. Diana explains her coaching philosophy and the importance of transparency and integrity in both personal and professional realms. The conversation emphasizes the power of resilience, the value in life’s difficulties, and the significance of maintaining a positive and authentic outlook.

Diana’s Bio and Contact Information

Diana Fritz is a dynamic executive leader, cancer thriver, and passionate advocate for authenticity, resilience, and positive impact. With over 25 years of experience spanning executive leadership, operations, human resources, business planning, and technology, Diana has built a reputation for fostering teamwork, driving organizational health, and leading with influence, not just a title.

A member of the Maxwell Leadership Executive Program, a Corporate Facilitator, and a Certified DISC Consultant, Diana is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through open, engaging, and values-driven leadership. Her mission is to create a meaningful impact and ensure every person she encounters feels valued.

Beyond her professional achievements, Diana is a devoted wife, mother, and committed volunteer. She thrives on sharing insights about leadership, resilience, and navigating challenges with authenticity.

Connect with Diana Fritz:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianafritz/

Website: https://grituiuq.com

To find out more about Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com

In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts speaks with guest Amanda Carrasco, a survivor of homicide and sexual assault, about her journey and advocacy for restorative justice. Amanda, who holds multiple degrees, including in law, shares her powerful experiences of navigating trauma, her encounters with restorative justice, and how it has profoundly impacted her and helped her address her personal trauma. They delve into the benefits of restorative justice, including its empowering nature and scientific backing, and discuss Amanda's new book, 'Becoming the Brave One: My Journey to Justice.' The episode concludes with Amanda's reflections on bravery and the importance of empathy and accountability in healing processes.

Amanda’s Bio and Contact Information

Amanda Carrasco is a family survivor of homicide and sexual assault who uses her experiences to impact the lives of her community and those impacted by the justice system. She is a successful global business owner, dynamic speaker, consultant, and leader who values community and justice.

Amanda brings an opportunity to break the cycle of harm and restore our sense of belonging. Restorative justice is the core of her practice, and she is a certified facilitator through the Restorative Justice Council. She holds four master’s degrees from multiple nations, two of them in law. A powerful advocate, survivor, and storyteller who believes in the power of truth, healing, and transformation. Find out more about her at amandacarrasco.com.

Get Amanda’s Book: "Becoming the Brave One: My Journey to Justice" Order here 50% of proceeds go to Love Does Mexico.

Follow Amanda Carrasco on social media:

X/Twitter: @amanda_carrasco

Instagram: @amanda_the_brave_one

To find out more about Dave, please go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com