John DeDakis had a life built on facts, working as a White House correspondent and journalist at CNN. But soon discovered the "Sixth Stage of Grief," finding meaning after experiencing two profound, life-altering losses: his sister's suicide in 1980 and his youngest son's accidental heroin overdose in 2011. He became a different kind of correspondent: one who explores dealing with loss through fiction.

In this powerful conversation, John shares his deeply personal story of being on the scene of his sister's death and later discovering his son's secret struggle with addiction.

This interview is a must-listen for anyone experiencing loss, particularly due to suicide, addiction, or overdose, and for those seeking to understand how to turn tragedy into a source of enduring meaning and strength.

Guest: John DeDakis, former journalist, White House Correspondent, and author of six mystery suspense thriller novels. Grief and loss are subtexts in all six award-winning mystery/suspense/thriller novels written by John. John is a former White House correspondent and former editor on CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer.” John is currently a writing coach, manuscript editor, podcaster, and rank amateur jazz drummer.

🕵️‍♂️ FIND John:

http://www.johndedakis.com

🌎For full links to today’s guest visit ➡️ https://thejourneyingsoul.com/2101-2

Resources Mentioned:

Book: Bullet in the Chamber (based on his son's loss)

Book: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

The Wendt Center for Loss and Healing (DC-based grief counseling)

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*****DISCLAIMER:******

This video reflects Helena's personal experiences and views and the views and experiences of her guest and are not a reflection of the Journeying Soul, its parent company, or any entity they represent. This video is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. ALWAYS consult with a licensed provider.

#GriefAndLoss #SuicideAwareness #OverdoseAwareness #GriefHealing #FindingMeaningAfterLoss #Resilience #WritingTherapy #JohnDeacis #TheJourneyingSoul

In this poignant episode of The Journeying Soul, we speak with June K. Collins, author of "Momma You Don't Heal". We discuss honoring loss, child loss awareness, and child loss support as June opens up about the profound loss of her son Kaleb and how she actively keeps his legacy alive. She shares her journey of finding inspiration, rebuilding her life, and discovering new purpose in the face of unimaginable grief. June also offers her heartfelt advice to other parents navigating child loss, emphasizing that they are not alone and healing is possible. Join us for this powerful and moving conversation.👍 Like this video!🔔 Subscribe for more Earned Wisdom.💬 Leave your questions in the comments below.💌 Sign up https://thejourneyingsoul.com/#joinme 🌎For full links to today’s guest visit ➡️ https://thejourneyingsoul.com/1020-2🕵️‍♂️ FIND JuneFACEBOOK: @womensurvivingchildloss. Instagram: @authorjunekraholikLinkedin: @authorJuneKraholikTikTok: @theserenitydreamer📕Read MoreMomma You Don't Heal*****DISCLAIMER:****** This video reflects Helena's personal experiences and views and the views and experiences of her guest and are not a reflection of the Journeying Soul, its parent company, or any entity they represent. This video is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. ALWAYS consult with a licensed provider for diagnosis and treatment.

In this powerful and inspiring interview, Ray Hartjen shares his incredible journey living with multiple myeloma, six years post-diagnosis. Ray's story is more than just a medical narrative; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of living each day to its fullest.Ray opens up about his treatments, including a stem cell transplant, and the daily challenges of managing a chronic illness. He emphasizes the critical need for early detection and encourages everyone to prioritize their health by getting regular check-ups. But beyond the medical details, Ray's message is one of hope, resilience, and the power of perspective.He introduces his powerful mantra, "Punch Today in the Face," a metaphor for seizing each moment and living with intention. Ray discusses the importance of a strong support system, the reality of "cancer ghosting," and the vital role caregivers play. He also shares insights from his book, "Me Myself and My Multiple Myeloma," and reflects on the life lessons he's learned from his experience.This conversation delves into deep topics, from the importance of emotional intelligence to Ray's unique perspective on the "fight" against cancer. We even touch on the nature of reality and what he hopes to discover in the afterlife.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of early detection and regular health check-ups.
• The power of a positive mindset and living each day with intention.
• The crucial role of caregivers and the need for strong support systems.
• Insights into multiple myeloma treatment and the stem cell transplant process.
• Ray's philosophy of "Punch Today in the Face" and "If Not Now, When?"
• Reflections on life, time, and the human experience.

🔎 FIND RAY:https://rayhartjen.comBuy Me, Myself, and My Multiple Myeloma 💌 Sign up at https://thejourneyingsoul.com/#join*****DISCLAIMER:****** This video reflects Helena's personal experiences and views and the views and experiences of her guest. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.#MultipleMyeloma #CancerJourney #Inspiration #Hope #Caregivers #RayHartjen #ChronicIllness #PatientStory #HealthAwareness #MentalHealth