Episode 10: Overcoming Near-Death Experience with Kathy McDaniel

What if dying became the moment you truly learned how to live?

In this extraordinary episode of Overcoming Anything, host Anne Vryonides sits down with Kathy McDaniel, author of the memoir “Misfit in Hell to Heaven Expat,” to explore one of the most profound experiences imaginable — a distressing near-death experience that transformed her fear into faith and her suffering into purpose.

In 1999, while dying from lung failure, Kathy was placed on a ventilator and put into a drug-induced coma. During that time, she experienced what she later learned was a Distressing Near-Death Experience (DNDE) — a terrifying journey through darkness and despair that eventually transitioned into an indescribable experience of Heaven’s bliss and unconditional love.

Her story is not just about survival; it’s about awakening.

Top 3 Takeaways

1. Hell Is Not Forever — It’s a Mirror: Distressing near-death experiences are often self-created reflections of fear, guilt, or beliefs carried from life — and healing them begins with love and self-forgiveness.
2. The Power of “Be Loving and Kind”: Kathy’s simple mantra became her guiding light through darkness. Choosing love and kindness — even in pain — can transform every experience.
3. Purpose in the Pain: Every struggle carries meaning. The pain you’ve endured may be the very gift that allows you to help others heal.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction: Kathy’s near-death experience and story
02:15 – The illness that led to lung failure
05:00 – Entering “The Void” and facing a self-created hell
08:20 – The turning point: remembering God through “Away in a Manger”
12:00 – Transition to Heaven and the feeling of unconditional love
17:45 – Returning to Earth and struggling to integrate the experience
21:00 – The 10-year journey before finding IANDS
26:30 – Healing through community and sharing her story
30:45 – What distressing NDEs teach us about God and love
34:20 – Advice for those afraid of death or suffering alone
40:00 – Life lessons: empathy, acceptance, and divine purpose
44:10 – Creating heaven on earth by being loving and kind
48:00 – Books that guided Kathy’s healing journey
50:00 – Closing reflections and how to connect with Kathy

Connect with Kathy McDaniel

Website: www.misfitinhelltoheavenexpat.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/KathyMcDaniel
Facebook: facebook.com/KathyMcDaniel.FoxIs
X (Twitter): @MKMcDaniel3
YouTube: Watch Here
Instagram: @kathymcdaniel.foxis

Books Kathy Recommends

• Misfit in Hell to Heaven Expat: Lessons from a Dark Near-Death Experience and How to Avoid Hell in the Afterlife — M.K. (Kathy) McDaniel https://a.co/d/7vaxNg5
• My Descent into Death — Howard Storm https://a.co/d/fbJAG8P
• Dancing Through the Dark — Nancy Evans Bush https://a.co/d/3Y7m1Bq

Credits

Host: Anne Vryonides
Guest: M.K. (Kathy) McDaniel

Disclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

If you enjoyed this episode,

Episode 009: Overcoming Manic Depression with Benjamin "Bencasso" Barnes

In this powerful episode of Overcoming Anything, we sit down with Benjamin Barnes, also known as Bencasso—a musician, artist, author, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder—who has faced the depths of manic depression and psychosis. From losing everything to finding resilience through creativity, community, and faith in his own healing, Benjamin’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.

Key Takeaways

1. Resilience isn’t linear – recovery from manic depression involves setbacks, but persistence creates breakthroughs.

2. Creativity is medicine – music, art, and entrepreneurship can be transformative tools for healing and identity rebuilding.

3. Community support matters – surrounding yourself with people who uplift and believe in you is essential to overcoming hardship.

4. Medication & therapy are strengths, not weaknesses – treatment plays a vital role in stability and long-term recovery.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome & introduction

02:40 – What manic psychosis feels like: alternate realities & delusions

08:25 – The first episode of psychosis and diagnosis at 26

13:10 – Losing everything: career, relationships, and identity

20:05 – The turning point: friends and community support

27:15 – Struggles with addiction and relapse

33:00 – Finding love, stability, and recovery

40:20 – Key lessons: medication, persistence, and creativity as healing

48:55 – Advice for anyone facing psychosis or depression

53:10 – Upcoming projects & Benjamin’s nonprofit mission

Connect with Benjamin “Bencasso” Barnes

· Website: benjaminbarnes.com

· Nonprofit: culturescholar.org

· Email: info@benjaminbarnes.com, info@culturescholar.org

· Social Accounts: https://www.allmylinks.com/bencasso

Books & Resources Benjamin Recommends

· Loosened Associations: Jazz, Autism, Mischief, and Madness by Benjamin Barnes https://a.co/d/fLMe77L

· National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

· Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741

Credits

· Host: Anne Vryonides

· Guest: Benjamin “Bencasso” Barnes

Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling with mental health, please seek support from a licensed professional. If you are in crisis, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need it most.

❤️ Anne

Episode 008: Overcoming Career Transitions with Len Ward

What happens when the security of corporate America no longer feels aligned with your future? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Len Ward, entrepreneur and founder, who shares his journey of leaving a steady paycheck behind to step into the uncertainty of business ownership.

From the fear of supporting a young family, to losing his first business during the 2008 housing crisis, to rebuilding with resilience and scaling a successful digital agency, Len’s story is a powerful reminder that courage, action, and self-belief are the foundation of any entrepreneurial journey.

Len also shares why paying yourself first matters, how to manage imposter syndrome, and why AI-enabled small businesses will be the future.

Len Ward is the Managing Partner of Commexis, an AI consulting and product development firm helping businesses evolve into AI-native organizations. A former Wall Street VP at Morgan Stanley and Credit Suisse, Len transitioned from finance into entrepreneurship during the dot-com boom, launching an e-commerce business and self-teaching digital growth. He went on to build and scale a full-service marketing firm and today leads a team creating AI-powered marketing engines, intelligent chatbots, and workflow automation tools.

Key Takeaways

1. Indecision will kill you- Success comes from taking action quickly and course correcting along the way, rather than staying stuck in fear or hesitation.
2. Pay yourself first- Even if it’s a small percentage, prioritizing your own paycheck from day one ensures sustainability and prevents the “vanity growth” trap many entrepreneurs fall into.
3. Failure fuels growth- Losing a business isn’t the end—it’s the training ground that equips you with the resilience, knowledge, and confidence to build something stronger.

Timestamps

00:00 — Welcome & introduction
03:10 — Len’s mantra: “Indecision will kill you”
07:00 — Leaving corporate America with a young family
11:20 — The challenge of paying yourself first
15:45 — Loneliness and self-reliance in entrepreneurship
20:00 — The 2008 collapse and losing his first business
24:30 — Starting again: free work, first clients, and the “unplugged phone” moment
30:00 — Scaling from solopreneur to 25 employees (and what broke)
37:00 — Key merger that changed everything
42:15 — Facing imposter syndrome and believing in yourself
48:30 — How AI will reshape small business and entrepreneurship
55:00 — Lessons learned, books that made a difference
01:02:00 — Where to connect with Len

Connect with Len Ward

Website: Commexis.com
LinkedIn: Len Ward
Twitter/X: @LenWardNJ

Books & Resources Len Recommends

• The E-Myth Revisited — Michael Gerber https://a.co/d/781knp4
• Purple Cow — Seth Godin https://a.co/d/5RpaepW
• The Untethered Soul — Michael A. Singer https://a.co/d/75Q2FMR
• Everyday AI podcast

Credits

• Host: Anne Vryonides
• Guest: Len Ward

DisclaimerDisclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need it most.

❤️ Anne

EP007 — Overcoming Strict Religious Beliefs with Michela Giordano Castro

What happens when the faith you were raised in no longer feels like home? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Michela Giordano Castro, a licensed clinical social worker and non-religious spirituality coach who bravely shares her journey of leaving fundamentalist Christianity. From grief and anger to finding a new path in spirituality and mental health, Michela’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and learning to love yourself through the process of transformation.

Michela Giordano Castro, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma-informed therapist, and spirituality coach for women building authentic spirituality beyond religion. In her spirituality coaching, Michela combines trauma and Internal Family Systems therapy expertise with her own transformative experience to guide others in healing from religious trauma, navigating family dynamics, processing doubt, and discovering authentic spirituality beyond traditional doctrines.

Key Takeaways

1. Authenticity matters. Leaving a belief system that no longer serves you is not failure—it’s growth.

2. Feel your feelings. Grieving, anger, and doubt are all part of the healing journey.

3. Spirituality can be reclaimed. Losing religion doesn’t mean losing connection—new forms of spirituality can enrich life.

Timestamps

00:00 — Welcome & introduction
04:05 — Michela’s mantra and Gandhi’s wisdom
10:20 — Wrestling with faith and the moment of letting go
18:45 — Grieving the loss of religion
26:00 — Turning to mental health and social work as a new path
35:20 — Lessons from deconstruction and family influences
44:00 — Reconnecting with spirituality after 10 years
52:15 — Advice for those questioning their faith
01:00:00 — Recommended resources and books
01:05:00 — Where to connect with Michela

Connect with Michela Giordano Castro:

Website/Email: michela@michelasmindmunchies.com

Social: Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

Facebook Group: Unbound Faith: Post-Christianity Spirituality

Books & Resources Michela Recommends

• Autobiography of a Yogi — Paramahansa Yogananda https://a.co/d/99gZZVj
• How to Change Your Mind (Netflix docuseries)
• Surviving Death (Netflix docuseries)

Credits

Host: Anne Vryonides
Guest: Michela Giordano Castro

Disclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

Please follow, download, and rate Overcoming Anything so this podcast can reach the people who need to hear it most.

Thank you!

❤️ Anne

EP006: Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen with Kristen Shea

What does it take to show up authentically in a world that constantly pressures us to hide behind masks? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Kristen Shea, a psychic intuitive, channel, and spiritual mentor who helps women overcome the fear of being seen. Kristen shares her journey of hitting rock bottom, discovering her true identity, and learning to “hold the vision” even when everything seemed impossible. Her story is one of courage, faith, and the transformational power of authentic visibility.

Kristen Shea is a psychic intuitive, channel, and spiritual business mentor dedicated to helping women break free from the fear of being seen and step into their authentic power. After walking away from a narcissistic dynamic and losing nearly everything, Kristen was guided to share her gifts publicly for the first time. What began as one small act of courage—posting her first channeled message online—unlocked a life of abundance, alignment, and purpose. Today, Kristen empowers others through coaching, spiritual mentorship, and her thriving online community, where women learn to embrace their authentic selves, launch their spiritual businesses, and live in true freedom.

Key Takeaways

1. Authentic visibility is magic — showing up as your true self unlocks abundance and freedom.
2. Your mess is your message — sharing the hardest parts of your story can heal both you and others.
3. Rock bottom isn’t the end — it can be a sacred launchpad into your highest purpose.

Timestamps

• 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
• 05:10 — The mantra that carried Kristen through her darkest moments: “Hold the vision”
• 12:45 — Unraveling the deeper meaning of the fear of being seen
• 22:30 — Hitting rock bottom and being guided to share spiritual gifts online
• 33:15 — The surprising link between money and visibility
• 41:50 — Daily practices: EFT tapping, affirmation rants, and channeling guidance
• 52:20 — Making your purpose bigger than your fear
• 01:00:00 — Life after fear: abundance, authenticity, and alignment
• 01:08:00 — Recommended resources & final advice

Connect with Kristen

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekristenshea/
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thekristenshea
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKristenShea
  
  

Books Kristen Recommends

• The Sophia Code by Kaia Ra, https://a.co/d/9D41tcQ

Share this episode with someone who feels afraid to be seen, judged, or misunderstood—because their story, too, can become their sacred launchpad.

Credits

• Host: Anne Vryonides
• Guest: Kristen Shea

Disclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, therapy, or coaching.

Please follow, download, and rate within 2 days of release to help grow my podcast to reach the people who need to hear it most.

Thank you!

❤️ Anne

#OvercomingAnythingPodcast, #ResilienceStories, #TransformationAndGrowth, #PersonalDevelopmentPodcast, #SelfMasteryAndHealing, #InspirationalStories, #MindsetAndMotivation, #SpiritualAwakening, #EmotionalHealing, #CourageAndConfidence, #FearOfBeingSeen, #AuthenticVisibility, #KristenSheaInterview, #SpiritualBusinessMentor, #RockBottomToFreedom

Episode 005: Overcoming Male-Dominated Cultures with Toni Will

What does it take to thrive in a space where very few women have gone before? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Toni Will, the first female GM in ECHL history and a trailblazing leader in professional hockey. Toni shares her journey of breaking barriers, navigating leadership in male-dominated industries, and embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. Her story is one of courage, authenticity, and the power of redefining success on your own terms.

Toni Will is a trailblazing leader, speaker, and author dedicated to empowering women to thrive in male-dominated industries and embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. As the first female general manager in the history of the ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings, Toni has built a reputation for breaking barriers, driving growth, and inspiring others through authentic leadership. A sought-after keynote speaker, Toni captivates audiences with her engaging storytelling and practical strategies for navigating leadership challenges, cultivating confidence, and redefining success. She has spoken at conferences across the country, including TEDx, and will release her first book on March 1, 2026. Toni’s work extends beyond sports and business—she’s passionate about sparking conversations around living alcohol-free, challenging societal norms, and empowering individuals to make choices that align with their values. Her podcast, Women In…, showcases inspiring stories from women across industries, fostering connection, mentorship, and growth.

Key Takeaways

1. Authenticity wins — Your perceived weaknesses can actually be your greatest strengths in leadership.
2. Change starts with choice — Embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle gave Toni clarity, resilience, and confidence.
3. Create your own community — If you can’t find support in your industry, build it for yourself and others.

Timestamps

• 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
• 04:15 — Embracing femininity in male-dominated spaces
• 10:20 — Breaking barriers in pro hockey leadership
• 18:00 — Choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle and its ripple effects
• 27:45 — Toni’s six leadership pillars for thriving in any field
• 39:10 — Advice for women navigating male-dominated industries
• 48:00 — Recommended books & resources
• 53:00 — Where to connect with Toni

Connect with Toni

Website: https://www.toniwill.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toniwill/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonilentini

Toni’s Podcast Women In…

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in/id1745524618

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1bq7Oir4efb6F4283akjgh

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3KCmFHv1UcB99L2Hi_6MwA

Books Toni Recommends:

This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, https://a.co/d/hYupOFN

Money, Power, Respect: The Future of Feminism in Sports by Macaela MacKenzie, https://a.co/d/dXY20Df

Share this episode with someone navigating a male-dominated culture who needs inspiration, guidance, and proof that they too can succeed.

Credits

• Host: Anne Vryonides
• Guest: Toni Will

Disclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational&n

Episode 004: Overcoming a Toxic Relationship with Alisa Gracheva

What does it take to heal after an abusive and toxic relationship? In this powerful episode of Overcoming Anything, licensed psychotherapist Alisa Gracheva shares her raw story of resilience—from moving countries alone at 18, surviving abuse, facing health struggles, and finding the discipline and tools that helped her reclaim her life. This conversation is filled with hope, practical wisdom, and the reminder that you are worthy of so much more.

About Alisa Gracheva

Working with trauma is Alisa’s deepest passion. She is dedicated to using both traditional and alternative modalities to help people heal from life’s most painful experiences. Drawing on EMDR, CBT, Logotherapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and spiritual guidance, she helps clients address trauma at its root. Alisa also brings years of experience in sacred plant medicine, sound healing, light therapy, and energy work, blending modern science with spirituality to guide people through grief, loss, life transitions, and personal growth. Her work emphasizes reconnecting with the Higher Self to achieve true fulfillment and peace.

Key Takeaways

1. Trauma can feel invisible—but it always leaves traces in the body. Healing requires both awareness and active work, often through new disciplines, habits, and tools.
2. Discipline and consistency are non-negotiable in recovery. Daily rituals, mindset shifts, and boundaries create the foundation for transformation.
3. You are not alone—and you are not meant to stay in pain. With the right support system, resources, and self-love practices, it is possible to leave toxic cycles and build a life rooted in worthiness and peace.

Books Alisa Recommends:

I Can Do It by Louise Hay https://a.co/d/6k398tT

Change Your Thoughts- Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne Dyer https://a.co/d/gVIF93L

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza https://a.co/d/ergtMFo

Follow Alisa:

Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alisa-gracheva-coral-springs-fl/1109186/

Caring Therapists https://caringtherapistsofbroward.com/staff/alisa-gracheva/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/

Overcoming Anything is Hosted by Anne Vryonides

Episode 003: Overcoming a Busy Mind with Tania Ho

Is your mind constantly racing with “what ifs” and endless to-do lists? In this empowering episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Tania Ho—an intuitive soul guide, meditation teacher, and founder of Museflower Retreat & Spa in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Tania has dedicated her life to helping others quiet their busy minds, reconnect with their true selves, and live with clarity and peace.

Originally from Hong Kong, Tania now leads retreats and teaches soulful practices that bring heart, mind, and soul back into harmony. Through her own journey of self-discovery, she has studied and integrated holistic modalities such as meditation, energy healing, oracle readings, cacao ceremonies, and shamanic journeying, all of which she weaves into her work with individuals and groups around the world.

In this episode, Tania shares how to move from overthinking into presence, the simple practices that restore calm in everyday life, and the importance of embracing your sacred nature. Her approach is gentle, practical, and deeply soul-nourishing—reminding us that peace is always within reach, no matter how loud the world becomes.

✨ Key Takeaways from this Episode:
· Simple techniques to calm racing thoughts and quiet the mind
· How to shift from overthinking into clarity and focus
· Daily practices to create inner peace and reconnect with yourself

Tania’s story is one of mindfulness, heart-centered living, and spiritual clarity. Whether you’re struggling with stress, seeking more calm in your daily life, or simply curious about how to live with more presence, this episode offers tools and wisdom that can change the way you experience your inner world.

Lord Ganesh’s mantra to remove obstacles "“Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha”

Book:

The Artist's Way, A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron https://a.co/d/7JhRGWx

Follow Tania:
Website: taniaho.me

Museflower Retreat & Spa: musefloweretreat.com

Instagram (Retreat): @museflowerretreat

Instagram (Tania): @taniasoulguide

Facebook: Museflower Retreat

YouTube: Museflower Retreat

Podcast: Embrace Your Sacred Nature

Overcoming Anything is Hosted by Anne Vryonides