"I thought I was a victim of child identity theft—until I discovered the truth: my own mother had stolen my identity, my future, and my trust."

In this deeply compelling and emotionally charged episode, Stacey sits down with Dr. Axton Betz-Hamilton, a professor, author, and survivor of one of the most personal crimes imaginable: identity theft at the hands of her own mother. From an idyllic childhood on an Indiana farm to the shocking discovery that her credit had been ruined before she turned 20, Axton shares the harrowing journey of uncovering layers of betrayal buried in secrecy, manipulation, and financial devastation.

Axton's story is not just about theft, but the emotional toll of familial deception and the long road to reclaiming her identity, stability, and peace. Through her academic work and her critically acclaimed memoir, "The Less People Know About Us," she has become a national voice for victims of familial identity theft. This episode explores the intersection of trauma, mental health, justice, and resilience—and what it means to heal when the person who harmed you is the one who raised you.

What You’ll Learn:

• What familial identity theft is and how it differs from other forms of identity theft
• Why children and older adults are especially vulnerable to identity fraud
• How Axton discovered her mother had stolen her identity and that of other family members
• The emotional and relational fallout of discovering long-term betrayal
• Practical tips to protect yourself from financial, medical, and government benefits identity theft
• The role of credit freezes, monitoring, and emotional support in recovery
• Why victims of familial identity theft often find more help from therapists than financial institutions

Dr. Axton Betz-Hamilton is an associate professor specializing in consumer studies and identity theft at South Dakota State University. A leading researcher in familial identity theft, Axton turned her traumatic experience into a platform for education and reform. Her memoir, The Less People Know About Us: A Mystery of Betrayal, Family Secrets, and Stolen Identity, has been featured by NPR, The New York Times, and other major media outlets. Her work sheds light on a hidden epidemic affecting countless families.

Connect with Axton:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAxtonBetzHamilton/
• Book: The Less People Know About Us
  • Hardcover - https://amzn.to/3XsFgE9
  • Kindle - https://amzn.to/4oBCFDR

Resources & Links:

• Identity Theft Resource Center: idtheftcenter.org
• Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Reporting: identitytheft.gov
• Credit Freeze Info: consumer.ftc.gov

If this episode moved you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review Life. Reimagined. on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it—you never know who might be living a similar story in silence. Follow us for more powerful conversations that inspire healing, insight, and reimagining life on your own terms.

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"You deserve a seat in the driver's seat of your financial future — not as a passenger, and definitely not hitchhiking."

In this eye-opening and empowering episode, Stacey welcomes Lorie Jones, a Certified Financial Planner and the founder of Fearless Financial Advisors, to discuss the fears, myths, and realities surrounding women and money. With warmth and humor, Lorie shares her personal journey from stay-at-home mom to financial expert, demystifies the world of investing, and emphasizes a values-based approach to financial planning. Together, they tackle the stigma many women feel around money management and shed light on how financial planning is not just about numbers — it's about making your dreams come true. Whether you're starting late, rebuilding after a life transition, or just ready to stop DIY-ing your financial life, this conversation will inspire you to fear less and plan more.

What You'll Learn:

• Why many women feel intimidated by financial planning and how to overcome that mindset
• The critical importance of finding a CFP who prioritizes education over sales
• How to plan financially according to your personal values, not someone else's
• Common fears and anxieties women face around money and how to tackle them
• Why it's never too late to start, and how even small steps can make a big difference
• The gender gap in financial planning and why more women are needed in the industry
• How to vet a financial planner and spot red flags
• The power of having an advisor who meets you where you are and grows with you

Lorie Jones is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), MBA, and founder of Fearless Financial Advisors. With a passion for helping women take control of their financial futures, Lorie takes a values-based, client-first approach to wealth planning. She is also the host of the "Fearless Females" podcast, where she amplifies women's voices in finance. From demystifying investments to empowering her clients to take that first step, Lorie believes finance shouldn't be scary — it should be a tool for realizing your dreams.

Connect with Lorie Jones:

• Website
• Podcast
• LinkedIn
• Instagram: @lorie_fearless_females

Resources & Links:

• CFP Certification Info: letsmakeaplan.org
• Advisor Check Tools: BrokerCheck | Investment Adviser Public Disclosure

If this episode sparked something in you, don't wait. Take the first step toward understanding and owning your financial future. Subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman you care about. Let's normalize financial empowerment — one fearless conversation at a time.

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"No one else was going to push me, so I pushed myself."

In this moving and wide-ranging conversation, retired U.S. Army Major General Mari K. Eder joins host Stacey to share her journey through a 36-year military career, her lifelong pursuit of purpose, and her mission to spotlight the unsung heroes of history. From her beginnings as a public relations specialist in the military to becoming one of a handful of female generals, Mari opens up about breaking barriers, the value of persistence, and the power of strategic communication. She also shares her passion for writing, her love for rescue dogs, and how she's honoring the courageous women who "stepped out of line" to change the world. Whether you're a history buff, aspiring leader, or dog lover, this episode is rich with heart, grit, and inspiration.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Mari K. Eder joined the military and how she forged a groundbreaking path
• The importance of women’s stories in military history and why they're often untold
• How humor, communication, and resilience shaped her leadership style
• Insights into writing history, finding primary sources, and preserving truth
• The role of strategic communication in both military and civilian life
• Why she fosters dogs and how rescue work became her passion project

Major General Mari K. Eder (Ret.) is an accomplished leader, author, and speaker. With a 36-year career in the U.S. Army, she served as a commanding officer, public affairs expert, and advocate for military women. She is the author of several books, including The Girls Who Stepped Out of Line, The Girls Who Fought Crime, and the forthcoming The Girls Who Beat the Odds. She also writes humorous dog-themed books and is deeply involved in animal rescue. A celebrated speaker on leadership and strategic communication, Mari continues to inspire through her storytelling and service.

Follow Mari:

• Instagram

• Website

• Linkedin
• Facebook
• Books: Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47zmHD9

Resources & Links:

• Military Women's Memorial: https://womensmemorial.org
• JSTOR (research database): https://www.jstor.org
• Foundation for Women Warriors: https://foundationforwomenwarriors.org

If you were inspired by Mari's journey, consider sharing this episode with a friend. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and follow us on your favorite platform. Your support helps us continue telling stories that matter. Step out of line—and into your potential.

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"What happens after you survive the unthinkable? For Jessica Buchanan, surviving survival became the hardest—and most transformative—journey of all."

In this deeply powerful and emotionally resonant episode, Stacey sits down with Jessica Buchanan, humanitarian, educator, and New York Times bestselling author, to unpack her harrowing story of being kidnapped by Somali pirates and held hostage for 93 days. But this conversation is about so much more than captivity—it's about what comes next. Jessica opens up about the aftermath of her rescue by SEAL Team Six, the struggle of reclaiming her identity, and the journey toward healing and purpose. She shares insights from her upcoming book Surviving Survival, discusses the nuances of trauma and resilience, and introduces us to the powerful stories she's amplifying through her publishing company, SoulSpeak Press. With raw vulnerability and hard-earned wisdom, Jessica reminds us that pain is never wasted—and that we all have the ability to create a meaningful life after devastation.

• The psychological toll and moral complexity of surviving a kidnapping
• How Jessica reframed “options” vs. “choices” in the midst of trauma
• Why surviving the aftermath of trauma can be harder than the trauma itself
• How writing and storytelling became tools for healing
• What it truly means to "survive survival"
• How SoulSpeak Press is giving a platform to stories of grit and resilience
• Insights on trauma, motherhood, identity, and rebuilding from rubble

Jessica Buchanan is a teacher, humanitarian, speaker, and survivor. In 2011, while working on education and demining efforts in Somalia, she was kidnapped by pirates and held for 93 days before being rescued by SEAL Team Six. Her memoir Impossible Odds, co-authored with her husband and Anthony Flacco, became a New York Times bestseller. Jessica is also the founder of SoulSpeak Press, a boutique publishing company that empowers women to share their survival stories. Her newest book, Surviving Survival, explores the journey of healing after trauma and will be released on October 27th.

Connect with Jess:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Impossible Odds by Jessica Buchanan Paperback
• Kindle
• Hardcover
• Her New Book -

  How to Survive Survival: A Guide to Turning Life's Hardest Moments into Meaningful Contribution for the World

• On Kindle

If Jessica’s story moved you, inspired you, or gave you a new perspective, please consider subscribing to the show, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Your support helps amplify stories of resilience, healing, and hope. Follow us on social media for more episodes and behind-the-scenes content!

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"When you take away the skin, we are all the same. Everyone deserves respect in life—and in death."

In this riveting episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey welcomes Dr. Joye Carter, the first Black female chief medical examiner in the United States, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation. Dr. Carter shares the extraordinary journey that led her to forensic pathology—from a childhood medical crisis to a chance encounter with a post-mortem exam at age 14. Listeners are treated to an unfiltered look at the realities of death investigation, racial and gender biases in medicine, and the sacred responsibility of speaking for the dead. Dr. Carter also reveals the systemic flaws within the coroner system, the battle against the pseudoscience of "excited delirium," and her ongoing mission to mentor the next generation of forensic pathologists. Now retired, Dr. Carter continues to influence the world through advocacy, mentoring, and yes—her garden and her beloved dogs. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about justice, equity, and the truth behind the headlines.

What You’ll Learn:

• How a childhood illness sparked Dr. Carter's medical aspirations
• The systemic differences between coroners and medical examiners Why cause of death is foundational to justice
• The truth about racial and gender disparities in autopsy practices
• How flawed forensic practices have led to wrongful imprisonments
• The controversy behind "excited delirium" and its racial implications
• The power of mentorship and why representation in medicine matters

Dr. Joye M. Carter is a pioneer in forensic pathology, becoming the first Black female to serve as a chief medical examiner in the United States. Over a career spanning more than four decades and 25,000 autopsies, she has served in top forensic roles with the Armed Forces, Washington D.C., Houston, and Indianapolis. She is the author of I Speak for the Dead, and an outspoken advocate for dignity in death, equity in medicine, and justice for marginalized communities. Even in retirement, Dr. Carter mentors aspiring pathologists and continues to speak out on national issues related to death investigation.

Connect with Dr. Joye Carter:

• LinkedIn

• Twitter (X) - @joyejoy32

• Instagram - @docdocjo
• Book: I Speak for the Dead (Available on Amazon)

Resources & Links:

• The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
• Information on forensic pathology careers: College of American Pathologists
• National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME)

If you found this episode as compelling as we did, please subscribe to Life. Reimagined., leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with friends or anyone curious about justice, medicine, or forensic science. Follow the podcast for more bold conversations that challenge convention and inspire change.

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"Real justice isn't about money—it's about being heard, believed, and seen."

In this emotionally powerful episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey Lindsay sits down with renowned civil rights attorney, activist, and entrepreneur Micha Star Liberty. Micha shares her deeply personal journey from witnessing devastating loss as a teenager to dedicating her career to fighting for survivors of sexual violence, human trafficking, and systemic injustice. Through candid and insightful conversation, Micha reveals the realities of vicarious trauma, the complexities of justice, and the evolving landscape of tech-facilitated abuse. She also highlights her advocacy efforts to reform laws, train trauma-informed leaders, and build pathways of empowerment for women globally. This is a must-listen episode for anyone passionate about human rights, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.

What You'll Learn:

• The harrowing story that inspired Micha's legal career and advocacy
• Why real justice is more than financial compensation
• How tech platforms are complicit in modern trafficking and exploitation
• What "sextortion" is and why it's especially dangerous for boys
• How we can recognize trafficking victims and respond safely
• Legislative and grassroots efforts to fight online abuse and reform outdated laws
• The importance of trauma-informed leadership and legal practice

Micha Star Liberty is a nationally recognized civil rights and personal injury attorney based in Oakland, California. With over 25 years of experience, she is the founder of Liberty Law and The Soaring Center, and a co-founder of Radiant Star Roasters and Lion Hearted Leader. Micha specializes in representing survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking, and gender-based violence. A fierce advocate for systemic change, she also engages in legislative lobbying, restorative justice work, and leadership training with a focus on trauma-informed practice. Micha is the author of Evolutionista: The Revolutionary Act of Accountability and Advocacy After Sexual Abuse. Learn more at libertylaw.com.

Connect with Micha Star Liberty:

• • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michastarliberty/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvolutionistaMSL/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michastarliberty/
  • Micha’s official website: https://evolutionista.com/

Resources & Links:

• • Micha Star Liberty's Law Firm: libertylaw.com
  • The Soaring Center: https://thesoaringcenter.com/
  • Radiant Star Roasters: radiantstarroasters.com
  • Micha's Book: Evolutionista
  • National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
  • Know the "Help Me" Hand Signal: Canadian Women’s Foundation

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to Life. Reimagined., leaving a review, and sharing it with your fellow adventurers. Every download helps us bring you more inspiring stories of reinvention, resilience, and rising to the occasion.

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"You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable, because that’s where the opportunities live."

In this inspiring episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey sits down with the trailblazing Captain Kate McCue — the first American woman to captain a megaship and now the captain for the upcoming ultra-luxury Four Seasons Yachts. From her early dreams of being a cruise director to navigating a male-dominated maritime industry, Captain Kate shares her remarkable journey with warmth, humor, and profound insight. The conversation explores the power of diversity at sea, the emotional cost of long voyages, the joys and grief of onboard companionship (including her beloved Sphynx cat, Bug Naked), and the future of boutique luxury cruising. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, an aspiring seafarer, or someone who simply loves stories of courage and reinvention, this episode is a must-listen.

What You'll Learn:

• How Captain Kate's father's encouragement sparked a lifelong career at sea
• Why diversity and inclusion on international ships have been key to her success
• What it's like to build and lead the first-ever Four Seasons Yacht from scratch
• The emotional highs and lows of life at sea—from romance to resilience
• How solo travel and female empowerment intersect in beautiful ways
• Why travel connections can become the greatest souvenirs of all

Captain Kate McCue is a maritime pioneer, best known as the first American woman to captain a cruise megaship. With over two decades of experience at sea, she has captained ships for Disney, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and is now leading the charge at Four Seasons Yachts. Captain Kate is also a vocal advocate for diversity in the maritime industry and is known for her engaging social media presence, where she shares life at sea with humor and heart.

Follow Captain Kate:

• Instagram: @captainkatemccue
• TikTok: @captainkatemccue
• Youtube:
• Facebook
• Official Website
• Four Seasons Yachts

Resources & Links:

• Venty Fan (mentioned in the episode)
• Ship EEZ motion sickness patches:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to Life. Reimagined., leaving a review, and sharing it with your fellow adventurers. Every download helps us bring you more inspiring stories of reinvention, resilience, and rising to the occasion.

• Learn more about Life Reimagined and past episodes.
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"Archeology isn't just about digging up the past—it's about understanding the present, empowering local voices, and uncovering the stories that shape our shared humanity."

In this thought-provoking and delightfully human conversation, Stacey sits down with Dr. Smiti Nathan, an archaeologist, educator, and storyteller who is redefining how we connect with history. Dr. Nathan shares her unexpected journey into archaeology, sparked by a high school career test, and how that path has led her from the classrooms of George Washington University to fieldwork in Ethiopia and Oman. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at what modern archaeology entails, breaking the myths of "Indiana Jones-style" exploration and emphasizing the importance of ethical practices, cultural respect, and community collaboration. Dr. Nathan also dives into her passion for public education and storytelling through her popular YouTube channel, where she brings overlooked aspects of history—like ancient menstruation practices and plant archaeology—to life.

With humor, humility, and insight, Dr. Nathan discusses everything from working with Omani women farmers to the challenges women still face in male-dominated academic fields. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of cultural travel, or someone curious about how stories shape our world, this episode is a must-listen.

What You'll Learn:

• What archaeology really looks like beyond the Hollywood tropes
• The difference between excavation, surveying, and laboratory work
• How Dr. Nathan's research in Oman and Ethiopia reveals untold cultural narratives
• Why cultural respect and local collaboration are non-negotiable in fieldwork
• The role of storytelling in making history accessible and inclusive
• How women are both reshaping and underrepresented in archaeological scholarship
• The emotional and intellectual joys of building international research relationships

Dr. Smiti Nathan is an archaeologist, educator, and digital storyteller whose work spans continents and disciplines. She has conducted fieldwork in Ethiopia, Oman, Greece, and India, specializing in archaeological survey, GIS mapping, archaeobotany, and ethnoarchaeology. Dr. Nathan is also the creator behind a successful YouTube channel where she makes history accessible, engaging, and representative by highlighting overlooked topics and voices. Her mission is to use storytelling to connect people with the past in meaningful ways.

Connect with Dr. Smiti Nathan:

• YouTube
• Website: smitinathan.com
• Instagram

If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe to Life. Reimagined. wherever you get your podcasts. Leave a review to help others discover these inspiring stories and follow us on social media for updates on future episodes. And don’t forget to check out Dr. Nathan’s incredible YouTube channel for more deep dives into the untold stories of history.

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