2 LIVES - Stories Of Transformation

2 LIVES - Stories Of Transformation

Laurel Morales

"We all have two lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one." Stories of people who have faced darkness and how those moments transformed them. 2 Lives is hosted and written by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Pod art and website designed by Christian Arnder, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

BONUS: Guide Seeks Resilience In Nature

BONUS: Guide Seeks Resilience In Nature

This is a conversation with wilderness guide Scout Wilkins about resilience of the natural world, trees specifically, and how she has found her own resiliency by being a part of it.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer who reported this episode. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Subscribe to Laurel's Substack here. Support 2 Lives a

Feb 11, • 30:21

Death Doula Finds Joy In A Good Ending

Death Doula Finds Joy In A Good Ending

Rattled by the loss of a loved one and how little she knew about death, Sairey Luterman found  her true calling as an end of life counselor to help others be more prepared. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Subscribe to Laurel's Substack here. Support 2 Lives at https://ko-fi.com/2livespodcast Yo

Jan 28, • 29:10

Writer's Story Evolves Beyond Dad's Death By Suicide

Writer's Story Evolves Beyond Dad's Death By Suicide

TW: Mention of suicide. Rachel Zients helps people heal through storytelling because that is how she and her mom dealt with her dad’s death by suicide, but she’s learned to make way for new stories. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Subscribe to Laurel's Substack here. Support 2 Lives at https://

Jan 14, • 29:50

Suicide Survivor Learns To Manage Instead Of Cure His Mental Illness

Suicide Survivor Learns To Manage Instead Of Cure His Mental Illness

Jeff Morris has made it his mission to prevent suicide after he attempted to kill himself six times but it wasn’t until he received a bipolar 2 diagnosis and figured out how to manage instead of cure his depression that he learned how to live. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Subscribe to Laurel

Dec 31, 2024 • 30:29

At 53, Teacher Discovers She Has Dyslexia

At 53, Teacher Discovers She Has Dyslexia

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” For most of her life Viki Stein has struggled to learn so much that she became a teacher to help other kids who felt frustrated and dumb. It wasn’t until age 53 that she learned that she had dyslexia and became better trained to understand herself and help others like her. 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot

Dec 17, 2024 • 29:15

How One Woman Thrives With Schizoaffective Disorder

How One Woman Thrives With Schizoaffective Disorder

At 31 a psychiatrist finally solved the mystery inside Joan Kopczynski and told her she could manage her mental illness. But first she had to reconcile a series of traumatic events that would plague anyone with or without schizoaffective disorder. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. You can learn h

Dec 3, 2024 • 21:35

'Crappy Childhood Fairy' Finds Way To Heal From Complex PTSD

'Crappy Childhood Fairy' Finds Way To Heal From Complex PTSD

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” Anna Runkle calls herself the crappy childhood fairy and has helped a million people deal with their Complex PTSD. But it took 11 therapists and dozens of self help books before she found a name for what she has and a practice that worked. 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our pod art illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Learn how to su

Nov 19, 2024 • 31:09

Election Day Break From The Noise - Presenting Ladies Of Lore

Election Day Break From The Noise - Presenting Ladies Of Lore

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” Subscribe to Laurel's Substack here. We had planned to launch season 11 today with a new episode. But at the last minute the guest we interviewed asked us to hold off.  At 2 Lives we share the script with the person we interview before the story is finalized to make sure we got everything right. We do that for two reasons: one, because I’m often asking people to share their worst day and I want them to feel comfortable with the

Nov 5, 2024 • 49:30

What is 2 Lives?

What is 2 Lives?

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Or give a donation at paypal.me/2LivesPodcast You can learn how to support the show here. Or order merch here. Subscribe to Laurel's Substack here. Drop us a note on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.   Epis

Oct 22, 2024 • 4:30

Halloween Special Encore: Reluctant Psychic Solves Her Own Mystery

Halloween Special Encore: Reluctant Psychic Solves Her Own Mystery

Kiersten Parsons Hathcock became a medium after discovering an unexpected psychic ability. Today Kiersten helps investigators around the country solve missing children's cases, and the spirits have helped her uncover and heal from her own traumatic past. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a

Oct 8, 2024 • 40:46

How One Mom Turns Grief Into ‘A Place Of Yes’

How One Mom Turns Grief Into ‘A Place Of Yes’

When Heather Straughter’s son got sick, her perspective shifted. She discovered how fragile life is. She had to keep pivoting, when she was forced to change her expectations and recalibrate hope.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Or give

Sep 24, 2024 • 33:09

Therapist Takes His Own Advice: Confronts Perfectionism, Faces Fears

Therapist Takes His Own Advice: Confronts Perfectionism, Faces Fears

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION As a teenager Michael discovered he was a great tennis player. He fell into a flow state that he spent decades studying and striving to achieve again. He became a psychologist in the process. After years of telling clients to face their fears, Michael Brady has taken his own advice and confronted his perfectionism, but it’s still difficult to let go. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valer

Sep 10, 2024 • 25:32

After Sobriety, Broken Heart, Woman Finds Calling

After Sobriety, Broken Heart, Woman Finds Calling

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION For years Sonia Kahlon succeeded by her parents’ and husband's standards, but it was only after getting sober and volunteering at a women’s prison that Sonia found her true calling. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreo

Aug 27, 2024 • 32:14

How Divorce And ADHD Diagnosis Become A Catalyst For Growth

How Divorce And ADHD Diagnosis Become A Catalyst For Growth

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION After years of relying on cocaine and caffeine to focus Kathleen discovers she has ADHD. The diagnosis and subsequent tools help her achieve her dream of becoming a therapist. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/

Aug 13, 2024 • 29:49

Intelligence Analyst Goes From Capture Kill To Survive And Thrive Missions

Intelligence Analyst Goes From Capture Kill To Survive And Thrive Missions

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION After years of capture kill missions Kervin Aucoin now employs his military training to help people thrive. He says sharing his story keeps his PTSD at bay. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Or give a do

Jul 30, 2024 • 32:17

How One Music Therapist Discovers The Healing Power Of Her Voice

How One Music Therapist Discovers The Healing Power Of Her Voice

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION At 15 Meghan Callaghan was left alone with her grandfather for the day. What started out as a seemingly ordinary day became a defining moment in Meghan’s life. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Or give a

Jul 16, 2024 • 25:21

Reporter Survives War, Now Faces Cancer From A Place Of Love

Reporter Survives War, Now Faces Cancer From A Place Of Love

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Rod Nordland, author of "Waiting For The Monsoon," doesn’t plan to die from an incurable brain cancer. He’s a survivor — of violence, war, and now disease. "Although it's been terrible, I wouldn't change it back, his partner Leila Segal says. "Even though I was in love with him and I loved him before, I would never have got the relationship I now have with this man unless this had happened. Not only to him, to me too, because of course I've had to change."  "L

Jul 2, 2024 • 31:32

Pop Artist Adaline Reconciles Queer Identity With Evangelical Upbringing

Pop Artist Adaline Reconciles Queer Identity With Evangelical Upbringing

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Shawna Beesley, known to most as Adaline, says there’s no dopamine hit like saving someone from hell. Today she finds that high performing on stage. She discovered she had to shed her golden child identity and reconcile with her evangelical upbringing to be true to herself and come out to her family. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arn

Jun 18, 2024 • 35:41

2 Lives Season 10 Trailer

2 Lives Season 10 Trailer

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Coming up in season 10 of 2 Lives we’ll meet New York Times correspondent Rod Nordland, who survived dozens of war zones, but it took a terminal brain cancer diagnosis to discover the meaning of life.  We’ll learn from music therapist Meghan Callaghan the power of music. At 14 she witnessed her grandfather having a stroke and the one thing that brought him back to himself was her singing. And we’ll meet Shawna Beesley, otherwise known as the singer Adaline, wh

Jun 4, 2024 • 2:10

Bonus: 2 Lives Creator Listens To Her Inner Voice

Bonus: 2 Lives Creator Listens To Her Inner Voice

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION We’re working hard on season 10 of 2 Lives, which we’ll be bringing you just in time to kick off your summer. In the meantime I thought I’d share a bit about 2 Lives origin story. The following is a speech Laurel gave at the Flagstaff Women’s Leadership Summit.  I love stories. I love listening to them. I love watching them. I love reading them. And I love making them. But when I’m consuming stories, I’m tuning out the world and my inner voice – my source of c

May 21, 2024 • 10:57

Back From The Dead With Lessons On How To Live

Back From The Dead With Lessons On How To Live

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” TW: We mention an assault. Lauren’s heart stopped for 24 minutes. It took almost dying to realize she couldn’t get through life on her own. 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Or give a donation at paypal.me/2Live

May 7, 2024 • 31:45

Blind Surfer Embraces Challenges To Recover From PTSD

Blind Surfer Embraces Challenges To Recover From PTSD

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Joshua "The Jedi" Loya lost his eyesight at 15, but that didn’t stop him from skydiving, surfing, Ju-Jitsu, and stand up comedy. Joshua says choosing sometimes the scary thing makes him feel authentically himself and helps him to live well with PTSD.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music

Apr 23, 2024 • 24:40

Severe Burnout Pushes West Point Grad To Find Worthiness Beyond Career

Severe Burnout Pushes West Point Grad To Find Worthiness Beyond Career

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION It took a life threatening situation to give Kafi Joseph permission to make her own rules about what she needs.  She learned that burnout was a symptom of a deeper worry that she wasn’t valuable unless she was driving hard.  Now this West Point grad uses her can-do attitude to take care of herself. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnde

Apr 9, 2024 • 25:45

Adrenaline Junkie Finds Peace, Recovery In Nature

Adrenaline Junkie Finds Peace, Recovery In Nature

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Morgan O’Kane spent much of his young life searching for meaning and a high. It wasn’t until he sacrificed alcohol for the love of his child that he reconnected with his true nature. Through train-hopping, mountaineering, music, fatherhood and two very special dogs, Morgan O’Kane found his way home. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnd

Mar 26, 2024 • 29:57

Podcast Host Changes Dialogue Around Mental Illness Recovery

Podcast Host Changes Dialogue Around Mental Illness Recovery

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Content Warning: We mention suicide in this episode. After decades of telling people what she believed they wanted to hear, Helen Sneed shares openly her struggles with mental illness because it provides hope and ultimately saves lives, but it took many agonizing years of therapy, hospitalizations, and finally finding community to get here. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively

Mar 12, 2024 • 27:41

Perfectionist Cures Chronic Illness And Burnout

Perfectionist Cures Chronic Illness And Burnout

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Wenche Fredriksen is on a mission to help people accept they are enough after perfectionism took its toll on her. She suffered from years of chronic illness and back pain before a doctor told her she needed to recover from burnout. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessi

Feb 27, 2024 • 28:16

How One Chicago Man Turned His Life Around In Prison

How One Chicago Man Turned His Life Around In Prison

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Yohance Lacour creates luxury hiphop sneakers because they represent both his humble beginnings on Chicago's south side as well as the high fashion person he became, but it took a decade’s long prison sentence to learn how to make the shoes and to work toward the greater good. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator a

Feb 13, 2024 • 27:03

How One Woman Stopped Drinking, Stopped Dissociating, And Started Finding Her Way Back To Herself

How One Woman Stopped Drinking, Stopped Dissociating, And Started Finding Her Way Back To Herself

2 LIVES - STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION Valerie Milburn was getting help for her mental illness but it wasn’t until her husband told her she couldn’t come home until she found stability that she turned her life around. It was then she began to fight for her recovery and to find the right treatment for her bipolar disorder and PTSD. Today she’s been married 40 years and she’s close with her children and grandchildren. On top of all that she's helped many people with her story. 2 Lives “The second beg

Jan 30, 2024 • 26:41

2 Lives Season 9 Trailer

2 Lives Season 9 Trailer

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Drop us a note on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. You can learn how to support the show here. Or order merch here. Episode transcripts are posted on our  website.

Jan 16, 2024 • 3:13

ENCORE: 2023 Award Winning 2 LIVES Episode

ENCORE: 2023 Award Winning 2 LIVES Episode

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation After hating her body for 35 years Adiba Nelson became a burlesque dancer celebrating her curves and scars to show her daughter, who was born with a disability, how to embrace her own body. This episode won 2 Lives a 2023 Signal Award for best indie podcast (silver), as well as runner up for an International Women's Podcast Award. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Ruxandra Guidi edited thi

Jan 2, 2024 • 31:16

Queer Reverend Finds God After Decades Of Feeling Rejected By Church

Queer Reverend Finds God After Decades Of Feeling Rejected By Church

2 LIVES - Stories Of Transformation Alex Reegan became a reverend after two decades of feeling disconnected from God and after rejecting his ultra conservative evangelical christian faith. Today he helps other LGBTQIA folks on their spiritual journey. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2

Dec 19, 2023 • 26:49

Blind Woman Turns Disability Into A Super Power

Blind Woman Turns Disability Into A Super Power

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Beth Pizzarello’s blindness saved her life in a hurricane when she used her heightened senses to get to safety but she had to figure out a way to help herself before the Americans With Disabilities Act passed and when she didn’t qualify for disabilities. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and website designer. Mu

Dec 5, 2023 • 25:34

Surgeon Shares Burnout To Suicide Story To Take Away Stigma

Surgeon Shares Burnout To Suicide Story To Take Away Stigma

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Mike Ivy, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Yale New Haven Health, shares his story of burnout and suicide because its a crisis in the medical community and he wants to help other health workers but he fights taboos of shame around his perceptions of “weakness” and mental illness. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator

Nov 21, 2023 • 24:00

Trans Man Finds Faith In Their Future

Trans Man Finds Faith In Their Future

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation L. Nichols has boundless empathy for their Southern Baptist community but embraces their found family because they helped L. accept who they are. Now having kids of their own, L. shows up for them in a new way. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives pat

Nov 7, 2023 • 26:36

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL REPLAY: How A Writer Repaired Her Marriage After Her Husband Died

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL REPLAY: How A Writer Repaired Her Marriage After Her Husband Died

After Jessica Waite's husband died, she was sent a box of his personal belongings that revealed one betrayal after another. But eventually with the help of a death doula Jessica was able to forgive him. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt helped produce this episode. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web desig

Oct 31, 2023 • 32:17

Therapist Breaks Up With Booze And 'Booze Bonds'

Therapist Breaks Up With Booze And 'Booze Bonds'

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Therapist Sarah White broke up with booze and what she calls her ‘booze bonds,’ friends and family who could only connect through alcohol, after seeing their impacts on her life.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/

Oct 17, 2023 • 39:31

After Conversion Therapy Left Him 'Broken,' Gay Man Finds New Way To Integrate

After Conversion Therapy Left Him 'Broken,' Gay Man Finds New Way To Integrate

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Simon Kent Fung devoted three years of his life to creating a podcast about an aspiring nun, whose life paralleled his own. He also sought out conversion therapy for nearly a decade to become a  Catholic priest. Fung was compelled to understand the truth about what happened to her, and finally face what happened to him. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Laur

Oct 3, 2023 • 38:45

Child Bride Quits Cult, But Still Struggles With Certain Brainwashed Beliefs

Child Bride Quits Cult, But Still Struggles With Certain Brainwashed Beliefs

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation After years of being forced to be a child bride in a cult and keep it a secret, today Tamara belongs to herself, but she still struggles with certain brainwashed beliefs and remains angry with Sufi leaders. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron

Sep 19, 2023 • 36:12

Husband Fights Black Maternal Mortality And Health Care Inequality

Husband Fights Black Maternal Mortality And Health Care Inequality

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Shamony Gibson died after giving birth from an issue that could have been prevented. Omari Maynard and the rest of her family have made it their mission to prevent more BIPOC women from dying preventable deaths. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales. Valerie Shively is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives pa

Sep 5, 2023 • 31:14

Words Matter For Coach Who Was Bullied

Words Matter For Coach Who Was Bullied

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation I’d like to think every month is ‘Don’t Be a Bully Month,’ but the social media gods claimed August. Regardless it's a good reminder to listen to one of my favorite 2 Lives episodes featuring Coach Marty who has made it his life’s mission to put a stop to bullying. Coach Marty Heilman has made an impact on thousands of kids. He knows all too well what lasting impacts teasing can have so he strives to put a stop to bullying. Content Warning: There is some talk

Aug 22, 2023 • 27:30

2 Lives Season 8 Trailer

2 Lives Season 8 Trailer

Coming up this season on 2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation We’ll meet Omari Maynard who's helping other BIPOC families cope with the loss of a loved one and raising awareness about health care equality after his wife died in childbirth. We’ll hear how Tamara MC is reclaiming her life after years of being forced into a cult and how she still struggles with certain brainwashed beliefs. And we’ll meet artist L Nichols who could not imagine a future until he realized he was a trans man. It was thr

Aug 8, 2023 • 2:36

Stand Up Storytelling Remedies Comedian's Crohn's Disease

Stand Up Storytelling Remedies Comedian's Crohn's Disease

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Ian Goldstein has found comedy to be the best remedy for his Crohn’s disease and fear of aging because he discovered he wasn't alone but he had to get comfortable being completely vulnerable on stage. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jul 25, 2023 • 26:38

Woman Embraces Body After Mysterious Near Death Illness

Woman Embraces Body After Mysterious Near Death Illness

CW: A head’s up we discuss disordered eating and body dysmorphia in this episode. For information about eating disorders go to the National Eating Disorders website or 2lives.org 2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Stephanie Washington embraces her body and shows her daughter how to love herself because Stephanie wound up near death in the hospital after she tried to diminish herself and assimilate. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel

Jul 11, 2023 • 39:04

Once Isolated With PTSD, Today Teacher Connects Cultures

Once Isolated With PTSD, Today Teacher Connects Cultures

2 Lives - Stories Of Transformation Audra Travelbee has dedicated her life to connecting people who feel isolated because she felt alone much of her life dealing with complex PTSD, but it took COVID and getting laid off from her teaching job to realize her mission. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer.

Jun 27, 2023 • 26:38

After Loss And Breast Cancer, Perfectionist Learns To Surrender

After Loss And Breast Cancer, Perfectionist Learns To Surrender

TW: This episode deals with a stillbirth. Katie Joy Duke is battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer with grace and vulnerability because she’s survived the death of a child. It took relating to her daughter in a new way, accepting that she isn't perfect, and learning to surrender to the process. Since the production of this episode we are thrilled to learn Katie's latest CT scan shows she is cancer free! 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by

Jun 13, 2023 • 29:35

Brother Of Gunshot Victim Still Believes People Can Change

Brother Of Gunshot Victim Still Believes People Can Change

Trevon Bosley has dedicated his life to protesting gun violence since his brother was shot and killed in 2006 but with the number of shootings he gets discouraged at times. That’s when he remembers historical events that have proven change is possible. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Bl

May 30, 2023 • 20:39

After Daughter's Suicide Ex-Vangelical Chooses To Listen To Her Inner Guide

After Daughter's Suicide Ex-Vangelical Chooses To Listen To Her Inner Guide

TW: A heads up we mention an eating disorder and suicide. For suicide prevention and mental health resources visit 2lives.org Lisa Sorrell was raised by Evangelical Christians who preached God heals, not doctors. After losing her daughter and feeling abandoned by her church, she chooses to listen to her own inner voice for guidance. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assis

May 16, 2023 • 28:47

An Arrest By Iran's Morality Police Forces Woman To Embrace Her Hyphen

An Arrest By Iran's Morality Police Forces Woman To Embrace Her Hyphen

Her whole life Pardis Mahdavi tried to belong -- in the US, then in Iran. And finally she decided to be a bridge between two cultures but it took an arrest by the morality police and a crisis of identity to get there. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives p

May 2, 2023 • 26:19

Sisters Connected To Black Dahlia Murder Shine Light On The Dark

Sisters Connected To Black Dahlia Murder Shine Light On The Dark

Sisters Rasha Pecoraro and Yvette Gentile are carrying their mother's torch shining the light on the darkness after coming to terms with the fact that their great grandfather George Hodel was the prime suspect in the most notorious unsolved murder of the 20th century. Their mother Fauna Hodel always told them: "You are not this supposed evilness that we come from. You are pure love and light because you come from me." TW: Some material may not be suitable for young ears. 2 Lives “The second begi

Apr 18, 2023 • 28:39

2 Lives Season 7 Trailer

2 Lives Season 7 Trailer

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Drop us a note on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. You can learn how to support the show here.

Apr 4, 2023 • 2:01

Season 7 Sneak Peak

Season 7 Sneak Peak

Sisters Rasha Pecoraro and Yvette Gentile have dedicated their lives to shining a light in the dark because that is what their mother deeply ingrained in them after she broke the shame cycle. They’ve just released the second season of their podcast “Facing Evil.” The sisters are better known for their first true crime podcast “Root of Evil,” where they open up about their great grandfather’s connection to the Black Dahlia murder.  I think you’ll agree that 2 Lives and Facing Evil are kindred pod

Mar 21, 2023 • 4:39

Nurse Learns How To Orchestrate A Death

Nurse Learns How To Orchestrate A Death

A nurse teaches health professionals how to orchestrate a death after her two year old son died. She learned she had to experience his death with all her senses before she could accept and believe it. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://

Mar 7, 2023 • 33:46

Woman Of Science Embraces Super Natural Connection To Her Husband

Woman Of Science Embraces Super Natural Connection To Her Husband

Michelle Grua is a woman of science. As a pediatric anesthesiologist, for many years she believed only what she could see, hear, and touch. She trusted data and research. But when her dead husband reached out from beyond the grave in ways she could not deny, she had to reconcile science with the super natural.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christi

Feb 21, 2023 • 31:22

Czarina Salido Helps Native Girls Find Solace In The Stars

Czarina Salido Helps Native Girls Find Solace In The Stars

TW: Mention of suicide. The national suicide prevention lifeline is 988. Czarina Salido helps Native girls get to space camp because as a child she found solace in the stars but no one looked like her in her math and science classes. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vespoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Be

Feb 7, 2023 • 21:40

After Decades Of Self Doubt Dancer Turns To Burlesque To Embrace Her Body

After Decades Of Self Doubt Dancer Turns To Burlesque To Embrace Her Body

After hating her body for 35 years Adiba Nelson became a burlesque performer celebrating her curves and scars to show her daughter, who was born with a disability, how to embrace her own body. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vispoli is the assistant producer. Christian Arnder is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patr

Jan 24, 2023 • 29:44

Mom's Depression Helps Her Forgive Her Own Mother's Suicide

Mom's Depression Helps Her Forgive Her Own Mother's Suicide

Stephanie Keeler raises her two boys with fierce honesty after her own mother hid her depression. But it took facing her own suicidal ideations before understanding how her mom got to such a dark place. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988. Go to 2lives.org for more resources. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vispoli is the assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator

Jan 10, 2023 • 26:10

Reluctant Psychic Solves Her Own Mystery

Reluctant Psychic Solves Her Own Mystery

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” Kiersten Parsons Hathcock became a reluctant medium after she discovered an unexpected psychic talent. Today Kiersten helps investigators around the country solve missing children cases, and the spirits have helped Kiersten uncover and heal from her own traumatic past. TW: We mention an incident of sexual abuse in this episode. 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vispoli is the assistant

Dec 27, 2022 • 42:58

Chef Heals Herself, Others Through Food and 'Comadrismo'

Chef Heals Herself, Others Through Food and 'Comadrismo'

2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” Stories of transformation. Just a few months before her baby was due Maria del Carmen’s own mother died. Still grieving the loss of her mom after her daughter’s birth she spiraled into postpartum depression. It was in a moment of despair that she realized she needed two things: to connect with other mothers and her mother’s recipes. 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Ruxandra Guidi. Lauren Vispoli is the assis

Dec 13, 2022 • 24:17

2 Lives Season 6 Trailer

2 Lives Season 6 Trailer

2 Lives - Storytelling Podcast about the moments that transform us. "We all have 2 Lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one." We kick off our sixth season of 2 Lives December 13 celebrating stories of Arizona women.  When Maria del Carmen Parra Cano cooks, she thinks of her mom. It was her mother who taught her to cook. When Carmen battled diabetes, liver disease, and postpartum depression she turned to her mother’s recipes -- corn mush and beans and cinnamon tea -- for co

Nov 29, 2022 • 1:25

2 Lives Presents: Made It

2 Lives Presents: Made It

We’re busy working on the next season of 2 Lives which we will launch December 13. In the meantime we’re bringing you a podcast by Jay Shifman. You may remember we featured Jay on 2 Lives at the end of June. He shared his story of realizing he’d been overmedicated and how he overcame his addiction to prescription pills. Jay is the host and producer of a couple different shows including “Choose Your Struggle” and  “Made It.” Today we’re bringing you an episode of “Made It: Stay Savage,” which spe

Nov 15, 2022 • 35:24

Understanding Intergenerational Trauma Allows One Woman To Heal

Understanding Intergenerational Trauma Allows One Woman To Heal

TW: Mention of DV and suicide Before she even knew the word for intergenerational trauma Manpreet Johal Bernie could see it in her own family. It wasn’t until her father died that Manpreet read a self help book about loving herself that she realized she didn't, and found help. Today Manpreet coaches people through their own intergenerational trauma using mind body techniques. Manpreet Johal Bernie is a life coach and the host of Heart's Happiness. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize

Nov 1, 2022 • 35:21

Oklahoma City Bombing Survivor Turns Hope Into A Verb

Oklahoma City Bombing Survivor Turns Hope Into A Verb

TW: Description of bombing In her twenties Amy Downs was living what she called a complacent, shallow existence. She had flunked out of college and was sleeping on the floor of her sister's house. She felt empty and alone. When she discovered the man she married couldn’t fix her life, she coped by eating. It wasn’t until tragedy struck on April 19, 1995, that she turned her life around. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, stor

Oct 18, 2022 • 45:41

Family Attempts To Save An Endangered Language, One Child At A Time

Family Attempts To Save An Endangered Language, One Child At A Time

Yuchi is one of more than 3,000 endangered indigenous languages. The United Nations estimates every two weeks a language is lost. Many Native American tribes offer language classes to elementary school students, but linguists say the best way to learn is starting at birth. Halay and Jiles have banned English from their home in an attempt to save Yuchi. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is created by Laurel Morales, story edited by Halle Hewitt. Annie Ger

Oct 4, 2022 • 23:25

Nurse Learns How To Make A Difference After Experiencing Homelessness

Nurse Learns How To Make A Difference After Experiencing Homelessness

TW: This story may not be suitable for young ears. We mention suicide and a sexual assault. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the national suicide hotline 1 800 273 TALK. Josephine Ensign has dedicated her life to improving health and social inequities for people marginalized by poverty but it was only after becoming homeless herself that she realized how she could work with people experiencing homelessness AND make a difference. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we reali

Sep 20, 2022 • 29:03

Mother And Son Heal Each Other When Both Discover They're Highly Sensitive

Mother And Son Heal Each Other When Both Discover They're Highly Sensitive

Marcia Tullous grieved her old life when she gave everything up to homeschool her highly sensitive kid but as she nurtures her son she heals herself as well. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon

Sep 6, 2022 • 39:10

'Unofficial Mayor' Discovers The Power Of Community After Tragic Accident

'Unofficial Mayor' Discovers The Power Of Community After Tragic Accident

For years Andres "Dre" Adauto created space for people to express themselves in Flagstaff through variety shows, urban flea markets, themed parties, and more, so when he was involved in a devastating bicycle accident, it was his community that showed up for him when he made a surprising comeback.  2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Halle Hewitt. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Musi

Aug 23, 2022 • 32:09

Presenting: Vanishing Postcards

Presenting: Vanishing Postcards

This week 2 Lives brings you a podcast we've been listening to this summer. Vanishing Postcards is hosted by Texas native Evan Stern. Its latest season invites listeners to ride shotgun as he motors west, cross country on Route 66. From a dance in Tulsa, to an Amarillo eating contest and a morning on the Santa Monica Pier, Vanishing Postcards explores how the past, present and future of this most iconic of roads is revealed through the stories of people and places found driving it today. Perfect

Aug 9, 2022 • 39:59

Self Defense Empowers Kelly Vaughn To Take Back Her Life

Self Defense Empowers Kelly Vaughn To Take Back Her Life

When Kelly Vaughn was growing up she learned – as so many girls do – to always be nice. She was encouraged to be soft spoken, polite, and agreeable. It wasn't until a scary experience in college that she realized "nice" doesn't get you out of the worst case scenario. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. This is our last episode with Camila and we wish her the

Jul 26, 2022 • 30:40

Journalist Caught In US Immigration Web For Two Decades, Still Seeks Asylum

Journalist Caught In US Immigration Web For Two Decades, Still Seeks Asylum

After two decades Miguel Gonzalez is speaking out about his family’s struggles to get asylum from Colombia in the United States, because he dreams of the day when he and his family don’t have to live and work in the shadows. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music fro

Jul 12, 2022 • 19:38

Once Overmedicated, Jay Shifman Seeks To Educate And Empower

Once Overmedicated, Jay Shifman Seeks To Educate And Empower

TW: We mention suicide in this episode. Jay Shifman has made it his mission to end stigma surrounding addiction and help people tell their own stories because he was over diagnosed and over medicated to the point of two suicide attempts before he told his story and found a way out. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. A

Jun 28, 2022 • 36:20

Why Pet Loss Can Sometimes Be The Hardest Loss To Bear

Why Pet Loss Can Sometimes Be The Hardest Loss To Bear

TW: Briefly discuss an incident of abuse Annette McGivney was overwhelmed with grief when her dog Sunny died because she unconditionally supported Annette through divorce and complex PTSD but Annette discovered a new dog could honor Sunny. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web desi

Jun 14, 2022 • 32:18

Presenting: Well+Good

Presenting: Well+Good

This week 2 Lives brings you a preview of an episode from Well+Good. You can listen to the full episode here and discover more from Well+Good on their website at http://wellandgood.com/ 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” If you become a 2 Lives patron during the month of June (our anniversary month) at any level above $5 you can receive a T shirt and stickers! That's at https://www.patreon.com/2lives  Send us a message at  Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Jun 7, 2022 • 8:41

How A Podcaster Who Amplifies Voices Learns To Own Her Voice

How A Podcaster Who Amplifies Voices Learns To Own Her Voice

Life Coach Makini Smith created a podcast to amplify women’s voices but she had to find her own voice first. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. We are so grateful to our 2 Lives community that during the entire month of June we are celebra

May 31, 2022 • 27:08

How A Writer Repaired Her Marriage After Her Husband Died

How A Writer Repaired Her Marriage After Her Husband Died

After Jessica Waite's husband died, she was sent a box of his personal belongings that revealed one betrayal after another. But eventually with the help of a death doula Jessica was able to forgive him. 2 Lives “The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. B

May 17, 2022 • 34:46

2 Lives Season 5 Trailer

2 Lives Season 5 Trailer

2 Lives - Storytelling Podcast about the moments that transform us.  “We all have 2 Lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron or make a one time donation. Drop us a note on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can learn how

May 10, 2022 • 1:26

Hopi Quechan Artist Jonah Hill Dreams In Color

Hopi Quechan Artist Jonah Hill Dreams In Color

Growing up Jonah Hill was bullied for being half Hopi. So his dad taught him the ways of his Quechan ancestors and Jonah found a sense of wholeness. Those warrior teachings became crucial when once again he felt a part of himself missing. 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https:

Apr 26, 2022 • 31:13

2 Lives Moments Provoke Podcast Decisions

2 Lives Moments Provoke Podcast Decisions

2 Lives - Storytelling Podcast about the moments that transform us.  “We all have 2 Lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our new assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web designer. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Become a 2 Lives patron at https://www.patreon.com/2lives Drop us a note on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can

Apr 19, 2022 • 4:50

Secret Hair Puller Rids Herself Of Wigs And Shame

Secret Hair Puller Rids Herself Of Wigs And Shame

2 Lives - Storytelling Podcast about the moments that transform us.  “We all have 2 Lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.” Katie Bannon hid her trichotillomania for years living a lonely double life because she was ashamed and thought wearing a wig was the only way to be accepted by the world. It wasn’t until she took her wig off that she discovered by revealing her vulnerabilities she could finally love and accept herself and help millions of others do the same. 2 Liv

Apr 10, 2022 • 40:54

Amy Green Smith Loses Her Religion, Finds Her Voice

Amy Green Smith Loses Her Religion, Finds Her Voice

2 Lives - A storytelling podcast about the moments that transform us. 2 Lives - The second begins the moment we realize we have only one.  Amy Green Smith felt silenced by guilt and fear as a kid growing up in a conservative evangelical Christian family. It wasn’t until she came face to face with her father’s dead body that she had the courage to leave her own religion, stop placating her family, and use her voice. 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of

Apr 5, 2022 • 37:06

Mind-Body Medicine Heals Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Mind-Body Medicine Heals Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

2 Lives - Storytelling Podcast about the moments that transform us.  Rebecca Tolin cured herself of a disease that more than 50 doctors and practitioners had told her was incurable.  She discovered she could heal her Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or ME/CFS through mind-body medicine. 2 Lives is written and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Halle Hewitt is our new  assistant producer. Annie Gerway is our illustrator and web

Mar 29, 2022 • 30:41

Presenting: Shelter In Place

Presenting: Shelter In Place

This week 2 Lives brings you an episode from our friends at Shelter In Place called "Dancing Saved My Life." Next week 2 Lives returns with more transformational stories of darkness to light.  2 Lives - the second begins the moment we realize we have only one. Learn more about us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can learn how to support the show here.

Mar 22, 2022 • 28:59

'The Life Autistic' YouTube Channel Takes Over Hunter Hansen's Actual Life

'The Life Autistic' YouTube Channel Takes Over Hunter Hansen's Actual Life

Stories about the moments that transform us. When Hunter Hansen found out he was autistic he hid it. Then in his 30s he came out about it in a youtube video that went viral. At first it fed his ego, and he felt he was helping people, but then he became so wrapped up in “The Life Autistic,” his actual life fell apart. 2 Lives - the second begins the moment we realize we have only one. See original illustrations for each episode on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Hosted and produced by Laurel M

Mar 15, 2022 • 31:18

When The Stakes Are Life Or Death Monica Brown Learns To Ask For Help

When The Stakes Are Life Or Death Monica Brown Learns To Ask For Help

When it came time to ask for help, the very idea felt ridiculous and selfish to Monica, that she wasn't worthy. This is a story about how we resist help, even when the stakes are life or death. This episode was produced and hosted by me, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. You can see them at 2 Lives or on our social sites -- Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @2LivesPodcast. Learn mo

Mar 8, 2022 • 33:58

Lisa Cooper Ellison Realizes She Can Only Rescue Herself

Lisa Cooper Ellison Realizes She Can Only Rescue Herself

TW: Mention of suicide Growing up Lisa Cooper Ellison was told she was the antidote to her family’s sorrow. But she realized the only antidote she can be is to her own suffering, and the only one who can revise that story is her. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by me, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. You can see them at 2 lives dot org or on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @2Live

Mar 1, 2022 • 38:12

After Learning To Numb Aaron Johnson Taps Into Tears

After Learning To Numb Aaron Johnson Taps Into Tears

TW: We mention suicidal thoughts and an incident that some may find disturbing. After his father's death Aaron Johnson numbed his grief until his wife encouraged him to tap into his tears. Aaron Johnson co-founded Holistic Resistance.  2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story editing by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Original art by Annie Gerway can be found at 2Lives.org and on social media @2LivesPodcast

Feb 22, 2022 • 31:02

Kate Nason Learns To Trust Her Intuition

Kate Nason Learns To Trust Her Intuition

TW: A brief description of a violent attack. We’ve changed the names of the people in this story. By the end of it you’ll likely know who we’re talking about because much has been written about this person but we wanted the focus of this story to be on Kate. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story editing by Camila Kerwin if the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. You can see them at 2lives.org or our s

Feb 15, 2022 • 28:07

Sharmane Fury Creates Community

Sharmane Fury Creates Community

Sharmane Fury is mixed race. No one in her family looked like her. People often tried to make her feel different. So that made finding a sense of belonging hard. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective. Music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. You can see them at 2Lives.org or our social sites @2LivesPodcast.  Sharmane hosts the podcast Militantly Mixed. This episode also featur

Feb 8, 2022 • 29:15

Darcy Alexandra Unlearns Childhood Lessons

Darcy Alexandra Unlearns Childhood Lessons

TW: Domestic violence This is a story about unlearning the messages and behaviors we absorb as kids.  If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, visit thehotline.org or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). If you need to talk to someone, visit Open Path Collective. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. Special thanks to Danie

Feb 1, 2022 • 24:49

Best of 2021: Kambri Crews Finds Way To Forgive Her Father

Best of 2021: Kambri Crews Finds Way To Forgive Her Father

We’re working hard to bring you a brand new episode Feb. 1. In the meantime here’s a show we produced last year that was selected as one of Spotify’s best episodes of 2021.  This episode of 2 Lives was hosted by me, and produced as part of the Transom Storytelling Mentorship. Special thanks to Yums the Word for letting us use audio from the show. Annie Gerway creates original illustrations for each episode. You can see them at our website or on our social sites @2LivesPodcast.

Jan 25, 2022 • 20:26

Season 4 Trailer

Season 4 Trailer

DARCY:  I was like that kid that people would say, ‘oh, you know, maybe Darcy wants to stay over for dinner or maybe Darcy would like to go camping with us.’ I sometimes wonder about those parents, like if they had any idea of what was going on.   When Darcy Alexandra finally turned 18 she left behind the violence in her home for good.    DARCY: I'm going on without you. And it was just the sense of like, I've got to live my life. I need to go this way. And I would love for all of you to come wi

Jan 18, 2022 • 1:00

BONUS: Interview with "Shelter In Place" Creator Laura Joyce Davis

BONUS: Interview with "Shelter In Place" Creator Laura Joyce Davis

We’re working on season four and trying to keep our families healthy. In the meantime, we’re pulling back the curtain.   Recently I had the pleasure of talking with Laura Joyce Davis, the host and creator of "Shelter In Place." As Laura says "2 Lives" and her show are “kindred spirits.” We talk about how our shows came about, why we keep producing them, and our "2 Lives" moments.   We’ll be bringing you a sneak peak of season 4 next week, then the first official episode on Jan. 25. Thank you for

Jan 11, 2022 • 28:14

BONUS EPISODE: What does '2 Lives' mean to you?

BONUS EPISODE: What does '2 Lives' mean to you?

2 Lives comes from a quote by Confucius who said, “we’re all given two lives; the second begins the moment we realize we have only one.”     Over the last year and a half I’ve interviewed 20 people who have faced darkness of some kind – a scary diagnosis, a grizzly bear, a death of a child, addiction – and how those grizzly bear moments changed the trajectory of their lives.    With each interview I shared the 2 Lives quote and asked what it meant for them. A couple of those answers wound up in

Dec 9, 2021 • 33:14

Bonus Mini Episode: Jennie Pearl Rattled By Bike Accident

Bonus Mini Episode: Jennie Pearl Rattled By Bike Accident

Activist Jennie Pearl, who appeared in episode 6, shares how her head trauma shook up her views of the world.  This bonus story was produced by Laurel Morales. Music comes from Blue Dot Sessions. The website and pod art were designed by Annie Gerway. We’ll be working on season four over the next couple of months. If you or someone you know has a 2 Lives story, please contact us through the website.

Nov 2, 2021 • 13:26

Dylan Wilder Quinn Discovers More Than Their Gender Identity

Dylan Wilder Quinn Discovers More Than Their Gender Identity

TW: A heads up we mention an eating disorder and suicide in this episode. Also, we include a couple swear words. Growing up Dylan Wilder Quinn didn't feel safe in their body, so they didn't explore their gender and sexual identity until much later in life.  “I didn’t know how unwell I was until I wasn’t.” And when they did come into their own, they opened themself up to love.  Learn more about Holistic Resistance and Transintimate. If you need someone to talk to, go to Open Path Collective.

Oct 29, 2021 • 31:07

Teacher Shelli Welch Heals Herself, Others

Teacher Shelli Welch Heals Herself, Others

Shelli Welch realizes the ripple effects one individual can have when she chooses to give her baby up for adoption.  TW: Self destructive behavior  Go to MentalHelp.net or SAMHSA for more resources. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway is our web designer and creates original illustrations for each episode.

Oct 20, 2021 • 34:44

Words Matter For Coach Marty Who Was Bullied Growing Up

Words Matter For Coach Marty Who Was Bullied Growing Up

Coach Marty Heilman has made an impact on thousands of kids. He knows what lasting impacts teasing can have. So he strives to put a stop to bullying. TW: talk of self harm, eating disorders To learn more about eating disorders go to 2 Lives. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions. Annie Gerway is our web designer and creates original illustrations for each episode.

Oct 12, 2021 • 24:59

Author Carol Smith Finds Her Way Back Across The River

Author Carol Smith Finds Her Way Back Across The River

Carol Smith, author of "Crossing the River: Seven Stories That Saved My Life," learns how to deal with her own loss by reporting on people coping with challenges -- a life-altering accident, injury, or diagnosis. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, music from Blue Dot Sessions, original illustrations and website designed by Annie Galloway.

Oct 5, 2021 • 32:35

Elite Runner Keri Shaw Learns Determination Isn't Always Enough

Elite Runner Keri Shaw Learns Determination Isn't Always Enough

Ever since Keri Shaw was a kid she had an uncanny, fierce all or nothing personality. But when she was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson's Disease, she quickly learned no amount of determination could "fix" it.  2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, original artwork and website designed by Annie Galloway.  More information about Parkinson's can be found at the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Sep 28, 2021 • 28:27

Flight Nurse Jenn Killeen Sees Both Sides Now

Flight Nurse Jenn Killeen Sees Both Sides Now

Emergency helicopter chief flight nurse Jenn Killeen loves the adrenaline that comes with solving problems under pressure. "We helped somebody on their worst day, in their biggest emergency on their worst nightmare." But what happens when the nightmare starts right there, in the helicopter.  2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camilla Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, original artwork and website designed by Annie Galloway.

Sep 21, 2021 • 24:32

Season 3 Trailer

Season 3 Trailer

Next week on 2 Lives... Jenn Killeen became a flight nurse on emergency helicopters because she’s good in a crisis.  JENN KILLEEN: Notoriously I perform very well under pressure. The more pressure I'm under, the better I perform. LAUREL: Is that why you do it? JENN KILLEEN: Yeah. I love it. I love it. Um, I love the adrenaline stress. It's not the adrenaline of the aircraft. It's the adrenaline of, ‘I think I just saved somebody. We just saved somebody.’ We helped somebody on their worst day, uh

Sep 14, 2021 • 1:00

Dustin Swanson Dies And Comes Back To Life

Dustin Swanson Dies And Comes Back To Life

Dustin Swanson didn't get it. He was in his thirties, healthy, in shape, didn't smoke or drink, even had low cholesterol. So why did his heart stop? 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website is designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this episode first appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives in November of 2020.

Sep 7, 2021 • 12:21

Casey Merriman Tackles Trauma And COVID

Casey Merriman Tackles Trauma And COVID

TW: Mention of sexual assault Casey Merriman comes back from the brink of death three times and the lessons she's learned are critical.  2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website is designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this episode first appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives in November of 2020.

Aug 31, 2021 • 18:12

Anna and Mike LaBenz Survive the Grizzly Bear Moments of their Marriage

Anna and Mike LaBenz Survive the Grizzly Bear Moments of their Marriage

Anna and Mike LaBenz have endured great challenges, not the least of which was coming head to head with a grizzly bear. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website is designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this episode appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives in November of 2020.

Aug 24, 2021 • 23:42

Anna and Mike LaBenz Survive the Grizzly Bear Moments of their Marriage

Anna and Mike LaBenz Survive the Grizzly Bear Moments of their Marriage

Anna and Mike LaBenz have endured great challenges, not the least of which was coming head to head with a grizzly bear. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website is designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this episode appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives in November of 2020.

Aug 24, 2021 • 23:42

Ultra Runner Tommy Puzey Moves The Masses From His Hospital Bed

Ultra Runner Tommy Puzey Moves The Masses From His Hospital Bed

An endurance athlete is someone who can run 50 miles and keep going despite the fact that blood is oozing out of his shoes. They’re really a breed unto themselves. But that’s just the sort of relentlessness you need to survive this ordeal that Tommy Rivers Puzey has gone through. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this episode appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives. Listen for an update at the end of the show.

Aug 17, 2021 • 16:08

Kambri Crews Finds Way To Forgive Her Father

Kambri Crews Finds Way To Forgive Her Father

TW // Domestic violence At one point in her life, Kambri Crews wanted nothing to do with her father. He was violent. And he betrayed her. Betrayed the whole family. But, while researching her memoir, Kambri discovered another side to her dad. One that almost brought them back together. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway. An earlier version of this episode appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives.

Aug 10, 2021 • 20:10

Navajo Nurse Marquerita Donald Barely Survives Covid

Navajo Nurse Marquerita Donald Barely Survives Covid

In Navajo culture you don’t talk about death. It’s considered taboo. To talk about death is to bring it upon you. But Marquerita Donald can’t help but talk about it. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway. An earlier version of this episode appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives.

Aug 3, 2021 • 19:38

Jake Bacon Rescues Wild Animals Until One Threatens His Life

Jake Bacon Rescues Wild Animals Until One Threatens His Life

Flagstaff photographer Jake Bacon has made it his mission to save wild animals until one puts his life in danger. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales. Pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway. A version of this podcast originally appeared on KJZZ's 2 Lives.

Jul 27, 2021 • 18:22

Yoga Saves Stephani Lindsey's Life

Yoga Saves Stephani Lindsey's Life

TW // addiction, domestic violence Stephani Lindsey has survived inherited addictions, a car crash, and the chronic pain that came with it. She credits yoga with not only her recovery but with transforming her life. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jul 20, 2021 • 28:23

Shelter Director Ross Schaefer Altenbaugh Seeks Her Own Sense of Home

Shelter Director Ross Schaefer Altenbaugh Seeks Her Own Sense of Home

The irony isn't lost on Flagstaff Shelter Services executive director Ross Schaefer Altenbaugh. Her job is to find people a home, when she herself longs to feel safe, tethered, and protected. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jul 13, 2021 • 29:33

Climber Timmy O'Neill's Stroke of Insight Is Hard-Earned

Climber Timmy O'Neill's Stroke of Insight Is Hard-Earned

Climber Timmy O'Neill has had several brushes with death hanging off a cliff face but when he suffered a stroke in Patagonia last year, things really shifted for him. 2 Lives is hosted and produced by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jul 6, 2021 • 28:46

Scott Stabile Turns Big Pain Into Big Love

Scott Stabile Turns Big Pain Into Big Love

Scott Stabile's parents were murdered when he was 14. About a decade later his brother died of a heroin overdose. Soon after Scott joined a cult. Through it all, he committed to living his life from love, even forgiving the man who killed his parents. 2 Lives is hosted and produced by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jun 29, 2021 • 28:44

Poet Therese Estacion Survives Rare Infection

Poet Therese Estacion Survives Rare Infection

Therese Estacion survived a rare infection that nearly killed her, but not without sacrifice.  2 Lives is hosted and produced by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jun 22, 2021 • 18:37

Artist Duane Koyawena Inherits Best and Worst from his Dad

Artist Duane Koyawena Inherits Best and Worst from his Dad

In the first episode of 2 Lives relaunch we meet Hopi Tewa artist Duane Koyawena who struggles to hold onto the best of his dad and let go of the worst. 2 Lives is hosted and produced by Laurel Morales, story edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective, pod art and website designed by Annie Galloway, music from Blue Dot Sessions.

Jun 15, 2021 • 26:30

2 Lives Trailer

2 Lives Trailer

2 Lives "We all have two lives. The second begins the moment we realize we have only one." - Confucius Stories of people who have faced darkness and how those moments transformed them. 2 Lives is produced and hosted by Laurel Morales, edited by Camila Kerwin of the Rough Cut Collective.

Jun 8, 2021 • 1:01

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