Episode Details

Michele Cushatt is a self-proclaimed expert of trauma, pain and the deep need for human connection. As a three-time cancer survivor, mother of six, author and speaker, Michele's warmth, strength and transparency will remind you that you're not alone.

Michele shares her story, how hope got her through her struggles and how it will help you through yours. Today, you'll be reminded that your best days remain in front of you to live a more inspired life.

SHOW NOTES:

• Fear + worry give a false sense of control. Acknowledge the reality but don't ruminate.
• Learn to laugh + gravitate towards other who do, too.
• How do we show up for loved ones with cancer (or other big things)
  1. Show support + be willing to do it wrong.
  2. Be willing to carry a measure of pain yourself.
• Hope gives meaning to life: We need to know there is meaning on the other side of pain and these challenges are not going to be wasted.
• The worst thing that can happen doesn't need to be the end of your life.
• If we are victims to our circumstances, we don't have a hand free to lend to anyone else. We're too busy trying to save ourselves.
• How to heal after trauma:
  1. Make a list and grieve.
  2. Acknowledge what you lost + what opportunities you have as a direct result of your loss.
  3. Healing is not done in isolation. Get emotional health and wholeness with help from a counselor, pastor or someone in that space. Find people who would want you to step in and do live with them.
  4. Hope is critical. Michele reminds herself daily that no matter what happens today, it can only get better from here.
• Live with compassion rather than constant disappointment.
• To overcome trauma, Michele suggested the book Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk and Dr. Daniel J. Siegel work.
• Get Michele Cushatt's book Undone here.
• Get Michele Cushatt's book I Am here.

Thank you Live Inspired Podcast listener + community member Jennifer K. for recommending Michele Cushatt! Have someone you want to hear on the show? Email me at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com.

We've welcome other guests onto the Live Inspired Podcast that have overcome cancer diagnoses and are living inspired. Listen to author Christine Cain on ep. 82, Olympic figure skater Scott Hamilton on ep. 68 and author Edie Little Sundby on

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