The Trusted Friend

Widow to Warrior with Jennifer Carazo

In this heartfelt episode of The Trusted Friend podcast, I speak with Jennifer Carrazzo, president of the Sugar Bear Foundation and a Gold Star Wife. Jennifer shares her journey from being a military spouse to becoming a pillar of support for Gold Star families after losing her husband, Mario (aka Sugar Bear) a Cobra pilot, during active duty in Afghanistan. She reflects on the challenges of raising her two children in the aftermath of loss, her unwavering determination to honor her husband's legacy, and how the foundation serves the community. Jennifer's story is one of resilience, purpose, and the power of saying "yes" to new opportunities, proving that even in the darkest times, hope and healing can emerge.
What you will learn:
Understanding Gold Star Families: A look into the concept of Gold Star families and the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Coping with Loss: Insights into navigating grief and finding resilience, regardless of personal circumstances.
The Power of Community: The importance of support networks in overcoming challenges and fostering connections.
Transforming Pain into Purpose: How to turn personal adversity into a motivating force for helping others.
Empathy and Understanding: Gaining perspective on the experiences of others, which can enhance compassion in everyday life.
Creating Meaningful Impact:  Exploring ways to contribute to causes that matter to you and your community.
Legacy and Love: How honoring loved ones can lead to a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Website - http://TheSugarBearFoundation.org
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheSugarBearFoundation/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarbearfoundation/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sugar-bear-foundation
Twitter - https://twitter.com/SugarBearFdn
#cobrapilot #goldstarfamily #marinecorps

Inner Strength..Outward Style with Courtney Robinson

Hey friends! I’m so excited to introduce you, Courtney Robinson. Not only is she a women’s style mentor, speaker, and a newly best-selling author, but she’s also got an incredibly inspiring story to share. Courtney recently launched a book called Stand Up: Resilient Black Women Who Are Shaping the World with Their Faith, where she tells her story along with 14 other amazing women.
Courtney’s all about helping women show up as their true selves, tapping into their inner values and beliefs to live with confidence and purpose. But what really sets her journey apart is when she was hit with a health scare—of 4 brain tumors,. Instead of letting it hold her back, Courtney leaned into her faith and purpose, coming out stronger than ever.
In this episode, we’ll talk about her personal journey—how she went from corporate life to becoming a style mentor—and what it really means to show up in life with authenticity and confidence. You’ll walk away with some powerful lessons on how to tap into your own values, embrace who you are, and use your image as a tool for self-expression and connection. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or finding your purpose, you won’t want to miss this one!
Take the Purpose Palette Persona Quiz 
Image by Courtney
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Poise and Promises Weekly Devotional
 
 

Besties and Boundaries with Dr. Sweta Chawla

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What you'll learn: You'll discover insights on how to build authentic relationships, set healthy boundaries, and find true connection. Additionally, you’ll hear real, anonymous reflections from women who shared why they believe others may not want to be their friend, offering a heartfelt look into common fears and insecurities. By the end, listeners will be encouraged with hope and practical steps to take toward deeper, more fulfilling friendships.
I’m so excited for today’s episode, where I’ll be joined by Dr. Sweta Chawla—a speaker, facilitator, and leadership coach who empowers professionals to lead with authenticity, balance, and greater impact.
In a world dominated by social media and technology, it feels harder than ever to make genuine, lasting connections. Many of us are left wondering why, despite having hundreds of followers or connections online, we still feel isolated or misunderstood. In today’s episode, Dr. Sweta and I will dive into this challenge and chat about how to build friendships that are true and real, even in today’s digital age.
Dr. Sweta brings a wealth of experience, not only as a coach but also through her personal journey, which she shares in her new book I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For: Now What? Together, we’ll explore how friendships can shape our lives and what it really means to find connections that matter.
41:01  I’ll be sharing some powerful and vulnerable thoughts from women who anonymously shared why they feel others may not want to be their friend during one of our Trusted Friend events. I’ll be posting more of these reflections later this week on social media, and I’d love for you to join the conversation!
More about Dr. Sweta Chawla
 

Wounds to Wisdom with Denita Bremer

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What you'll learn from this episode: we have the power to break generational cycles and create new paths for ourselves and our families.
In today’s episode, Denita opens up about her personal story and how’s it’s shaped much of who she is. From growing up in a home filled with instability, witnessing her parents’ tumultuous relationship, to dealing with the sudden death of her mother and her father’s long absence and eventual imprisonment, She learned at a young age to navigate life on her own. Despite the challenges—poverty, emotional hardship, and trauma—she made the conscious decision to break the cycle. Today, she’ll share how those experiences taught her to turn pain into power, to choose peace over chaos, and how she now use those lessons to help others through her trauma coaching and her podcast called, "If I'm so Blessed, Why Can't I Feel Good"  see all links in episode description. Denita’s is an example of how even the deepest wounds can transform into wisdom.
More about Denita:
Denita's Website(website)
Podcast: Apple:  Spotify
https://instagram.com/denitabremer
https://facebook.com/denitabremer
 
Suicide Prevention Month YYC Events:
 

Swifties in Sweden with Maddie Karl & Kayla Navratil

Swifties—and non-Swifties alike! Welcome back to *The Trusted Friend*! It’s so good to be back after the summer—I hope you had a ‘Fearless’ few months filled with memories
This is my *50th* episode! What better way to celebrate than with a story about friendship, connection, and—you guessed it—Taylor Swift. Now, whether you’re ‘Enchanted’ by Taylor or not, this story is about so much more than a concert. It’s about finding those rare connections, the ones that make you feel like you’re in a ‘Love Story’ of friendship. We’re all so ‘Out of the Woods’ when it comes to making time for friendships, but sometimes, life hands you the chance to ‘Shake It Off’ and find connection in the unlikeliest places.
In this episode, you'll meet three women—Maddie (24), Kayla (34), and Lisa (56) (your host)—who, despite barely knowing each other, decided to embark on a whirlwind adventure to Sweden to see Taylor Swift. Kayla, who had never left her five children or traveled to Europe, takes the leap, joining this spontaneous trio on what turned out to be more than just a concert experience. As we recount our trip, you’ll be eavesdropping on our laughter, nerves, and newfound friendships. This isn't just a story for Swifties—it's proof that if we open our hearts and lower our expectations, we just might form connections we never saw coming.  To see photos and more of our travels, go to THE TRUSTED FRIEND WEBSITE or Follow the Trusted Friend on Social Media

Out of the Basement with Deborah Halvorson

Listener Discretion Advised.  If you have experienced abuse, including sexual abuse, this episode may be triggering, listen with caution.
 
In this episode, Deborah shares her personal story and we look into the profound impact of sexual assault, exploring how it leaves lasting scars on the mind, body, and spirit. Survivors often carry a heavy burden of shame, self-blame, and a pervasive sense of insecurity. However, healing and empowerment are within reach. Deborah Halvorson, a renowned Beyond Surviving Coach, shares her personal story and years of trauma, revealing how she was able to heal and now dedicates her life to helping others. Through her collaborative process, Deborah empowers clients to reclaim their identities and restore what was taken from them. Discover how her journey can inspire intentional healing, renewed hope, and the power to flourish.  Check out her recently released book "Out of the Basement"
Deborah Halvorson
Site Dedicated to Preventing Child Abuse
Link for Helping Parents Stop It Now Organization 
National Association for People Abused in Childhood
Victim Connect Link
Sexual Assault Hotline
National Sexual Assault Hotlines/Links

Toxic Talks with Fatima Pagtakhan

Just like a good friend, The Trusted Friend Podcast is here to share tips to help you live your best life.  If you’re tired, overwhelmed, stressed, emotional, mentally struggling, struggling physical health and weightloss, this episode is for you.
Fatima not only shares her story but goes from Toxic relationship and body to Toxin free. The information will actually surprise you and Fatima explains it in a very real simplistic way.  She shares her wealth of knowledge about the importance of mineral balancing. Imagine waking up every morning feeling energized, vibrant, and ready to conquer the day. Picture yourself effortlessly maintaining a healthy weight, nourishing your body with delicious meals, and finding balance in all areas of your life. With Mineral Balancing, you can turn this vision into reality.
Say goodbye to exhaustion, overwhelm, and dissatisfaction, and hello to a life filled with vitality, balance, and energy.
Don't settle for a life that doesn't align with your desires. Envision the success you can achieve with Mineral Balancing.
Strongly encourage a listen to this episode.
For more information please don't hesitate to reach out to the lovely Fatima.
KIND HEART LIFESTYLE
Click here: FREE Questionaire

Frontlines to Punchlines with Robin Johnson 'Phoenix'

After serving over 20 years in the United States Army, Robin's new mission is to uplift people, organizations, and communities through humor.
Robin began her military career as an enlisted Soldier in the Ohio National Guard before earning her commission as an active-duty officer through The Ohio State University ROTC program. Her career highlights include five deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, commanding at both the Company and Battalion levels, serving as Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and working in the Strategic Initiatives Group for the Secretary of the Army. Her awards and decorations include the Airborne, Air Assault, and Pathfinder badges, three Bronze Stars, and the Defense Meritorious Service medal.
A Certified Humor Professional with the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor, Robin teaches "Problem Framing Through Humor" at the Institute for Defense & Business at Duke University. As a TEDx Speaker, she has addressed hundreds of audiences on using humor to enhance psychological performance and wellness.
Featured on USA Today, ABC, CBS, VET TV, and Fox, Robin is an international touring comedian and speaker renowned for her relatable comedy and expertise in applying humor for leader development and suicide prevention.
To request more information or to book Robin as a speaker or comic at your next event, please utilize the form at the bottom of this page or email robin@bestmedicinebrigade.com.

What a Girl Wants...What a Girl Needs! with Laura Aura

As the Trusted Friend Podcast, today’s story also has some great advice, just as a friend would give when you’re feeling in a rut and can’t escape the often rollercoaster ride of life.
We unravel the knots of self-doubt and kickstart your journey towards unapologetic empowerment. In this episode, I sit down with Laura, a driving force behind a movement that's reshaping mindsets and businesses alike.
For over 16 years, Laura has been on a mission to dismantle the barriers of self-doubt and overthinking that hold so many back. Through her intuitive alignment coaching, captivating classes, and The Gutsy Podcast, she's igniting a fire within women to break free from their comfort zones and seize the lives they truly desire.
Laura shares her story and the wisdom garnered from years of experience, emphasizing the pivotal role our minds play in either propelling us forward or keeping us stagnant. From inspirational anecdotes to no-nonsense advice, she equips listeners with the tools to overcome mental barriers and unleash their full potential.
It's time to undo the thoughts, feelings, and expectations that have been holding you back and reclaim your Power back. Get ready for a journey that's real, raw, and might just reignite your belief in yourself.
More of Laura

Famous to Founder with Kayley Hamilton

Meet Kayley Hamilton, the founder of UPLVL Agency and a 2X Emmy-Award winning celebrity news reporter. Growing up in Colorado, Kayley was captivated by the glitz of Hollywood and the allure of celebrities. Her childhood dream wasn't to be famous herself, but to connect with the stars she admired. Despite being a shy girl, she set her sights on the bright lights of Hollywood.With a bit more self-belief than doubt, Kayley pursued her dream of becoming a red carpet reporter. Over 8+ years as a celebrity journalist, she's interviewed A-listers like The Rock, Kim Kardashian, and Katy Perry at major events like The Oscars and The Grammys. She's seen the inner workings of TV, digital, and print news media, collaborating with talented professionals in the industry.In 2020, life took a turn, prompting Kayley to seek guidance within herself. Through podcasts, articles, and virtual talks, she found mentors who reshaped her vision. In 2021, she founded KAYLEY Media, focusing on helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs amplify their voices through media exposure. By 2023, KAYLEY Media evolved into UPLVL Agency, dedicated to empowering CEOs and founders to elevate their brands and make a lasting impact.
Youtube Episode
Kayley Hamilton
Website