Transforming and Thriving

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Podcast by Brooke Sacchetti, Stacie Weaver, and Neelia Heydt

Transforming and Thriving

"Transforming and Thriving," hosted by 3 best friends (Brooke, Stacie, and Neelia) is a podcast dedicated to showcasing the stories of resilient, everyday women who have persevered through pivotal transitions and/or traumas. In each interview, you will learn about their strength, their courage, and the work they are continuing to do to move through life. In this community, you will find a space of support and motivational fuel to create meaning from the mess. Our podcast aims to highlight the message we all need to hear when going through the muck: You are not alone, and you too can transform and thrive. Let’s move through it together. See you there!

Latest episodes

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18 August 2025

The Bold Move: How Following Your Heart Can Unlock True Health and Freedom with Dr. Joy Bhat

Join your cohosts Neelia and Brooke on "Transforming and Thriving" for an incredibly inspiring conversation with Dr. Joy Bhat. Brooke, who has followed her journey for years, shares how Dr. Joy’s energy, insight, and authenticity have always stood out.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Joy, a physician specializing in weight loss, longevity, and lifestyle medicine, opens up about the major "before and after" transition in her life: leaving a secure corporate medical job to pursue a life rooted in purpose, freedom, and impact in Los Angeles. She shares the pivotal moment she decided to take a huge chance on herself, trusting her gut and embracing uncertainty to start her own practice. Dr. Joy discusses how this bold move “from corporate to calling” allowed her to explore the root causes of chronic illness, moving beyond quick fixes to empower individuals with personalized, realistic lifestyle changes.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into Dr. Joy's mindset—learning to break down big fears into small, actionable steps and regulating the nervous system through nature. She discusses her vision for one-on-one consultations focused on nutrition, exercise, and holistic lifestyle shifts, making health feel simple and doable. This episode is a testament to the power of self-trust, the bravery of pursuing alignment, and the transformative potential of bold moves, even in uncertainty.

Dr. Joy Bhat is a board-certified physician in Obesity Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation who left corporate healthcare to offer a more personalized, compassionate path to healing—helping people feel strong, energized, and in control of their health.

She’s now offering a personalized 6-week program with weekly 1:1 consultations designed to help you lose stubborn weight, reset your metabolism, and feel more energized.

Join the waitlist to work with Dr. Joy: https://mailchi.mp/joybhatmd/11-consults

Follow for more on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.joy.md/

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6

We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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04 August 2025

Episode 21: Finding Her Voice: Maryanne Hibner's Journey to Self-Worth and Philanthropy

Join your cohosts Neelia Heydt and Stacie Weaver on "Transforming and Thriving" for a truly profound and inspiring conversation with Maryanne Hibner, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Hibner Design Group. Beyond her incredible professional accomplishments, Maryanne has deeply inspired Neelia with her commitment to community impact and thoughtful generosity, pushing her to become more philanthropic in her own life.

In this deeply personal episode, Maryanne bravely shares a pivotal moment from her teenage years: a hurtful comment from her stepfather that ignited a lifelong drive to prove her worth. She candidly discusses how, in her 40s, she had a powerful realization – her quest to prove him wrong had transformed into a journey of self-discovery, seeking to validate the worthy little girl within. Maryanne opens up about the ongoing work she does to navigate that inner voice, finding strength in spirituality, prayer, and the unwavering support of her husband. She shares how this personal healing fuels her philanthropic endeavors, including her work with A Mission For Michael, and how she empowers others through her mentorship.

Maryanne's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting that healing and growth are not always linear, but profoundly impactful. She offers invaluable insights into prioritizing self-love, finding strength in the face of past hurts, and the importance of connecting with one's spiritual self. This episode is a moving exploration of identity, worthiness, and the transformative power of choosing love over judgment.

Find out more about Maryanne Hibner and her work: Hibner Design Group on Instagram: @hibnerdesigngroup

Maryanne's personal Instagram: @maryannehibner

Lifestyle blog: @no15studio

A Mission For Michael on Instagram: @AMissionforMichael

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6 We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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21 July 2025

Episode 20: Triple Survivor, Reclaimed Life: Casey Kang's Journey Beyond Cancer

Join your cohosts Neelia and Brooke on "Transforming and Thriving" for an incredibly powerful and inspiring conversation with Casey Kang. Casey is a three-time survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and a stroke survivor, whose life took a drastic "before and after" turn with her first cancer diagnosis.

In this deeply personal episode, Casey bravely shares her remarkable journey of facing her own mortality, undergoing a hail mary immunotherapy, and fundamentally changing her lifestyle to prioritize her health. She opens up about the immense challenges she faced throughout her treatment and the continuous work she does to move forward, motivated by a profound commitment to reclaiming her life.

Casey, now a trauma-informed cancer coach, illuminates how she guides others in healing using somatic movement and breathwork, empowering them to live healthier, stronger, and free from fear. Her mission is to help survivors reclaim their lives, both physically and emotionally. She shares invaluable insights from her work as the author of "Finding Your Way Back to Heart Center: Cancer Treatment Ended, Now What?" and draws upon her extensive expertise as a certified personal trainer, yoga instructor, Cancer Exercise Specialist, and more.

For listeners navigating their own challenges, Casey offers heartfelt advice on staying resilient and finding their path, even in the face of profound adversity. This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, the journey of healing, and the transformative potential of embracing a new, healthier life.

Find out more about Casey Kang and access her free guide at: https://www.thehappierhustle.com/

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6

We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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07 July 2025

From Religious Asylum to Tenure-Track Professor: Natasha Drukarova Denmark’s Immigration Story of Resilience and Adaptation

Join your cohosts Neelia and Stacie on "Transforming and Thriving" for a deeply insightful conversation with the remarkable Natasha Drukarova Denmark, a mother of two, wife, tenure-track professor, and a woman with a rich tapestry of passions. In this episode, Natasha bravely shares her profound experience of immigrating to the U.S. with her family under religious asylum at the young age of six. She unveils the challenges and adaptations she and her family faced as they navigated a new country, learned a new language, and underwent the citizenship process. Natasha reflects on how this pivotal period shaped her identity, from her early years to rediscovering her past during graduate school, and how it continues to influence her marriage and the way she and her husband raise their children.

Through her powerful storytelling, Natasha illuminates the resilience required to embrace a new culture while honoring her roots. She offers invaluable perspectives on navigating significant life transitions, adapting to change, and finding strength in the face of the unknown. Her journey is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the profound impact of early life experiences on shaping our adult lives.

For listeners navigating their own challenges, Natasha shares heartfelt advice on staying resilient and finding their path forward, drawing from her own experiences of being forced to adapt and grow. This episode is a moving exploration of identity, adaptation, and the enduring power of family and personal strength.

Check out Natasha's Etsy store here: LittleTravelerKits - Etsy

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6

We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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23 June 2025

She Rises & Thrives: Loving Life In Recovery! A Conversation with Britt Brandon

Join host Brooke Sacchetti as she warmly welcomes Britt Brandon, a seasoned wellness expert with over two decades in the industry. With a wealth of certifications in fitness and nutrition, Britt has empowered over 10,000 women globally and authored an impressive 23 books on various health topics! In this inspiring episode, Britt delves into her latest book, "She Rises & Thrives: Loving Life In Recovery!", sharing her unique perspective as both a health coach and a resilient abuse survivor in recovery from addiction.

Witness Britt's powerful journey as she unveils the pivotal moment of her sobriety, marking a profound turning point in her life. She bravely discusses the challenges that contributed to her struggles, including intense abuse and the overwhelming feeling of helplessness while raising three children after leaving her abusive ex-husband. Prepare to be moved as Britt illuminates the incredible transformation she has experienced in the past six and a half years, exceeding her wildest dreams. Her mission is to offer hope and practical tools to women everywhere, empowering survivors to truly thrive.

Connect with Britt and discover more about her work! Her new book, "She Rises & Thrives: Loving Life In Recovery!", is a testament to her journey. You can also visit her website: https://sherisesandthrives.com/ and find her on social media

YouTube: @brittbrandonofficial

IG: @brittbrandonofficial

FB Page: She Rises & Thrives

TikTok: @brittbrandonofficial

Need help with domestic abuse? Reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑799‑SAFE or visit their website for confidential, 24/7 chat support.

Struggling with addiction? SMART Recovery offers free, secular support groups and tools—online or in-person—based on proven therapeutic methods. Go to: https://smartrecoveryglobal.org/

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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09 June 2025

From Shattered to Strong: Anne-Michelle Frances on Reinvention and Finding Your Power

Join cohosts Neelia and Stacie as we welcome Anne-Michelle Frances, a powerhouse entrepreneur who transformed her life after grieving multiple major losses, including her best friend. Witness her extraordinary metamorphosis as she reveals the raw, unfiltered truth of rebuilding life after the shattering death of her dearest friend, all while shouldering the immense responsibility of motherhood. Anne-Michelle shares her raw and inspiring journey of reinventing herself through intentional physical and emotional healing and self-discovery.

Anne-Michelle's story is a testament to resilience, showing how pain can awaken your greatest love story. Hear how she found strength in cultivating a supportive group of like-minded individuals with a growth mindset and became the woman she always wanted to be. She created a list of qualities she wanted in a partner and became those things herself, one by one, with dedication and discipline. She also emphasizes the importance of empowering children to pursue their passions fearlessly.

Connect with Anne-Michelle and find teasers on Instagram @therealannemichelle and release dates for her podcast, “Listen to Your Mother,” which she is hosting with her children!

Find us here: https://linktr.ee/transformingandthriving

Get your FREE meditation download: https://transforming-and-thriving.kit.com/40d6bfadc6

We love MoonBrew for help with sleep! Tastes yummy and filled with superfoods. Use this link for our discount: https://moonbrew.co/SF7GP3BC

Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: BFZ5TTZVY9ZC7ZMK

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors. This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding any questions you may have. Listener discretion is advised.

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