Andrea's Childhood and Academic Journey

Andrea shared her idyllic childhood growing up with her twin brother in a neighborhood with many children, where she experienced love and freedom. She discussed her connection with her twin who she felt a deep emotional bond with but no longer shares that connection due to living in different states. Andrea studied mathematics at the University of Southern Colorado, where she attempted to pursue a minor in art but was discouraged by her advisor. She expressed her preference for strategic thinking over accounting, and reflected on her confident and kind-hearted nature at the age of 13, which she still strives to build upon today.

Career Paths and Personal Journeys

Andrea and Jean discussed their educational backgrounds and career paths, with Jean sharing her experience as a former math major who switched to journalism and Andrea mentioning her math and art studies with a business minor. They also talked about Andrea's early life, including meeting her first husband in high school and their subsequent marriage and children.

Breaking Free from Abusive Marriage

Andrea shared her personal story of staying in a mentally abusive relationship for 32 years, influenced by Catholic beliefs and a desire to protect her children. She eventually left the relationship after receiving wisdom from a friend's elderly mother about the importance of leaving while still able to make a new life. The relationship was marked by mental abuse, manipulation, and narcissism, culminating in a violent incident where Andrea's ex husband attacked their son, prompting her to finally take action.

Near-Death Experiences and Healing

Andrea shared her personal experience of near-death experience. Andrea described being overdosed after surgery and having a vivid near-death experience involving a beautiful, warm light and her deceased mother. Andrea believes that everything happens for a reason and that there are no coincidences.

Faith Journey After Near-Death

Andrea shared her personal journey of exploring and strengthening her faith after a near-death experience, which led her to question and reflect on mainstream religious teachings. She expressed confidence in her beliefs, which include her continued faith in Jesus and God, while noting that her understanding of faith is a personal journey. Jean and Andrea discussed how joy can evolve over time, with Andrea mentioning horses as a long-standing source of joy and her new husband as a recent source of joy and support for exploring her ideas.

Personal Growth and Freedom Journey

Andrea shared her experience of personal growth and freedom in exploring her true self, contrasting it with her first marriage where she felt pressure to conform. She discussed her current career in property management, which she enjoys, and her recent visit to see long-time friends and their grown children in Virginia.

You can reach out to Andrea at andreaawhisler@gmail.com

To learn more about Jean and the Be Joyful podcast visit www.bejoyful.love.