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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04 May 2026

Forbidden Discoveries: A Lawyer’s Global Mission for Integrative Cancer Treatment with Sylvie Beljanski

Join your host Neelia on Transforming and Thriving for a gripping conversation with Sylvie Beljanski, a French lawyer who walked away from her legal career to protect a legacy of integrative health and cancer research. Connecting with us from New York, Sylvie shares a story that feels like it belongs in a thriller—but for her, it was a reality that changed her identity forever.

In this powerful episode, Sylvie recounts her "before and after" moment: a phone call in France informing her that her parents had been arrested by a government SWAT team. Their crime? Conducting groundbreaking research into natural cancer treatments that the authorities wanted silenced. Despite having no scientific background, Sylvie realized that her legal expertise was the very tool needed to uncover suppressed evidence and fight for her father’s discoveries.

Sylvie discusses her transition from being a "team of one" facing deep skepticism to becoming a world-renowned advocate and entrepreneur. She dives into the science behind the plant extracts her foundation studies—research conducted at Columbia University and through clinical trials—designed to target cancer cells specifically through integrative cancer treatment while protecting the body’s DNA.

Whether you are navigating a health journey or feeling "unqualified" to make a major career pivot, Sylvie’s message is clear: your "why" must be bigger than your fear. This episode is an essential listen for anyone passionate about health freedom, holistic medicine, and the courage it takes to stand up for the truth.

Find out more about Sylvie and the Beljanski Foundation here:

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

Get your FREE meditation download: Click here

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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06 April 2026

From Violent Crime Victim to Thriver: Patricia Wenskunas on Taking Her Power Back and Advocating for Survivors

Join your host, Brooke, on Transforming and Thriving for an incredibly powerful and inspiring conversation with Patricia Wenskunas, the founder and CEO of Crime Survivors, Inc.

Patricia's mission was born from her own survival of a violent attack in 2002 by her personal trainer, who threatened to kill her and her 12-year-old son. This horrific experience was the ultimate "before and after" moment that changed her life's trajectory. She bravely discusses confronting the survivor's guilt and realizing she was "so much more than what happened to me."

In this moving episode, Patricia shares:

  • How the fierce commitment to caring for her son and helping others fueled her to move from victimhood, take her power back, and survive.
  • The ongoing process of transforming and thriving, which is driven by her desire that no one feel alone and the need to provide resources for victims and their family members.
  • Her commitment to bringing awareness, prevention, advocacy, and healing to others.
  • Her early and relentless advocacy for Marsy’s Law, fighting to ensure victims' rights are prioritized in the justice system.
  • How facing triggers with support is essential to taking your power back, and her guiding belief that “With Faith, there is Hope.”

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced trauma or abuse, is supporting a loved one through a difficult transition, or is searching for the strength to transform their own "mess into motivational fuel." Patricia Wenskunas is a living testament to the fact that healing is possible.

Connect with Patricia Wenskunas and Crime Survivors, Inc.

"You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated"—Maya Angelou

Website: www.crimesurvivors.org

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Linkedin

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

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

Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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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02 March 2026

The Power of Purpose: Everyday Women Transforming Cancer Research with the Kure It Women's Guild

Join your cohosts Neelia and Stacie on "Transforming and Thriving" for an inspiring conversation with Courtney Cretikos (Director of Strategy and Development) and Kerri Hatfield (President) of the Kure It Women's Guild! Their journey is a powerful testament to the impact that everyday women can have on the community, particularly in the fight against cancer.

In this insightful episode, Courtney and Kerri share their "before and after" moments: Kerri's search for a way to give back beyond the PTA after cancer hit home, and Courtney's realization of the organization's immediate, profound impact after witnessing a young survivor's story. They dive deep into the mission of Kure It—a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit that ensures funding goes straight to underfunded cancer research, often seeing results in clinical trials within weeks of a campaign.

The conversation highlights truly moving stories, including one woman with lung cancer who found hope through a trial supported through Kure It. They discuss their roles as advocates, educators, and fundraisers, emphasizing the passion and purpose found in their community, which they fondly call the "bee-hive." They also offer critical advice for anyone newly diagnosed with cancer or supporting a loved one: hope, faith, community, and advocacy are vital.

Kerri and Courtney's message is a powerful one: Healing from cancer is a combination of medicine, hope, faith, and community, requiring you to be your own active advocate in the pursuit of wellness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to find purpose, get involved in their community, or learn more about hope in the fight against cancer.

Find out more about Kure It and the Women's Guild here:

  • Website: Kureit.org
  • Instagram: @kureitwomensguild and @kureit
  • Mention: Kure It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization looking for sponsors and companies to partner with them to support cancer research.

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

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

Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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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16 February 2026

The Power of a Shared Story: A Year of Healing & Transformation Recapped by Host Neelia Heydt

"A story shared is a burden halved and a light doubled." In this special "Best-Of" reflection episode of Transforming and Thriving, Neelia pulls back the curtain on a year of profound growth. This isn't just a recap; it’s a love letter to the human spirit’s ability to bend without breaking. Neelia has curated a tapestry of the most raw, courageous, and unforgettable moments that sparked healing, built courage, and forged deep connections in our community.

We’re revisiting the conversations that made us stop in our tracks, catch our breath, and realize: “It’s not just me.”

In this episode, we revisit the heart-opening wisdom of:

  • Stacie Weaver (Ep. 3): On the "unfiltered" reality of a difficult childbirth and postpartum challenges. Stacie reminds us why vulnerability isn't just a trait—it’s a mother’s greatest superpower.
  • Cecily Kelly (Ep. 7): On the quiet battle with imposter syndrome. Cecily shares the intentional steps to reclaiming your seat at the table with unshakeable confidence.
  • Erin Koppel (Ep. 8): On the heavy tides of grief and loneliness. Erin speaks to the life-saving necessity of a "forever community"—the people who stay long after the flowers have faded.
  • Maryanne Hibner (Ep. 21): On the alchemy of healing. Maryanne walks us through how she navigated the shadows of childhood trauma to emerge into a life of vibrant purpose.

What you’ll walk away with:

  • A renewed sense of belonging and "we-ness."
  • Actionable insights on navigating grief, career doubt, and trauma.
  • The inspiration to start sharing your own story, knowing it has the power to heal others.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or joining us for the first time, this episode is a warm invitation to break the silence and find strength in our collective journey. Join Neelia as she honors these incredible voices and celebrates a year of transformation.

Tune in now to find the spark you need for your own next chapter.

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

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

Our philanthropy initiative is still going strong! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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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02 February 2026

The Holistic Pivot: Healing, Leaving Prescriptions, and Finding Your Purpose with Dr. Arreanna Marko

Join your cohosts Brooke and Neelia on "Transforming and Thriving" for an incredibly personal and insightful conversation with the inspiring Dr. Arreanna Marko, a chiropractor and holistic healer with a deep passion for whole-body wellness.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Marko takes us through a significant "before and after" turning point in her life: the holistic way of thinking about health she encountered in chiropractic school. This profound shift led her to make the life-changing decision to transition off long-term prescriptions, including birth control pills and Adderall. She shares the raw details of the unexpected side effects she experienced—such as vision changes and panic attacks—and the tools that helped her navigate this massive transition, including supplementing cortisol, yoga, movement, and mindfulness.

The conversation explores how this experience shaped her practice, leading her to offer mobile chiropractic services in South Orange County, a concierge model that allows her clients to feel calm and centered in their own homes. Dr. Marko also shares a profound moment helping a newborn and offers empowering advice for anyone feeling like they are losing passion or standing at a crossroads.

Dr. Marko’s story is a testament to her belief that “If you're losing passion in your field, it's time to dig deeper.” This episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning their health path, navigating a transition off long-term medication, or seeking a more fulfilling and whole-body approach to wellness.

Find out more about Dr. Arreanna Marko and her work here:

  • Instagram: @Alignedbyarreanna
  • Website: www.alignedbyarreanna.com
  • Mention: Dr. Marko offers mobile chiropractic services serving individuals in South Orange County, where she also posts health tips and chiropractic care.

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

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

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new philanthropy initiative! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new Allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG @ WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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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27:53

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05 January 2026

Beyond the Body with Pilates - Mindful Movement and Reconnecting with Your Confidence with Tawnya Vickery

Join your cohosts Brooke and Stacie on "Transforming and Thriving" for an enlightening conversation with the incredible Tawnya Vickery, a certified Pilates instructor and our first returning guest, back by popular demand! With her gift for helping people reconnect with their bodies, Tawnya dives deep into how movement can become a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and transformation.

In this insightful episode, Tawnya shares her personal journey of finding herself and how Pilates became a central part of that process. She discusses the profound, real-life transformations she’s witnessed in her clients—not just physically, but also in their confidence and overall well-being.

The conversation explores what Pilates truly is, moving beyond its reputation as just a workout to reveal its benefits for the mind and soul. Tawnya explains how this mindful form of movement focuses on building core strength and body awareness, helping countless people get in touch with their bodies and emotions. She also offers empowering advice for anyone looking to use movement to feel stronger and more aligned in their life.

Tawnya’s story is a testament to her belief that “When we learn to understand, connect with, and feel at home in our bodies, we naturally align more fully with our lives. Pilates has shown me this over and over through the transformations I’ve witnessed in people.” This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the deeper power of movement and its ability to spark personal growth.

Find out more about Tawnya Vickery and her work here:

Instagram: @pilatestawnya

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

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new philanthropy initiative! We invite all our amazing listeners to help support the incredible work our former guest Susan Parmalee is doing with the Wellness & Prevention Center by raising funds for their preventative and mental health programs that benefit young people, including their brand-new Allcove space in San Juan Capistrano, a place for youth to find community, support, advice, or even just a moment of pause. Your donations make a real difference, and to kick things off, we'll be matching up to $1000 in donations!

DONATION LINK: Support teen mental health here!

Follow them on IG at WPCoc and learn about their mission to create a culture in which young people prioritize their mental health and have access to quality care. Learn more about the new Allcove center your donations are helping to support here: allcove: find your moment. find your space. find your center.

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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