Push Diaries Podcast

Ep. 43: Grief Share with Jan Fennern

Jan Fennern knows what it is like to lose someone incredibly close. She knows how hard the "firsts" can be, including holidays, and building new memories---but she has never lost her faith and hope for the goodness of the future. She is a Godly woman who was married to a strong husband who was greatly involved in the framework of who Jan IS. Come along with us as Jan shares what exactly a Grief Share is and how she got here to tell us all about it. For those of you who have lost someone clos...

Ep.42: Tess Is Going Back to Work! The Ticket to Work Program

The Social Security Administration has benefits for people out of work and disabled. Tess shares her personal journey surrounding Social Security Disability and covers everything you wanted to know regarding: The Basics About Disability Benefits, SSA’s Ticket to Work Program, What Are the Rules for Working While on Social Security Disability? What Is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for Social Security Disability Purposes? Social Security Disability Trial Work Period, EPE, Work Related Exp...

Ep.41: Laura

Hey, Everyone! In Michigan, it feels like summer finally!  The sun and hot weather is welcomed here. April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Nearly half a million people every year are victims of sexual assault or rape in the United States. These same people are at higher risk of becoming addicted to substances and struggle with post traumatic stress disorder. Laura comes on the podcast to discuss her experience with these confusing and sad statisti...

Ep.40: Kim

Kim is a mom who knows what it is like to celebrate the birth of a child and morn the loss of another. She has struggled with unhealthy relationships in the past that had put her in a dark place. She bravely pulled herself out of crippling suicidal ideation and wants to share her story. Kim wants her story to show you that when you don’t give up and reclaim faith in God, life is always worth living and motherhood is always worth doing. Stay tuned for Kim’s 2nd episode in the future where she...

Ep.39: IS IT ALL ABOUT ME OR IS IT ALL ABOUT YOU? Pt.2

My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes back on the podcast for Part 2 to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual. Challenge yourself a bit by listening to this episode and explore the ways in which you may be distorting your thoughts. Be sure to head back and listen to Part 1. Self reflection is an impor...

Ep.38: IS IT ALL ABOUT ME? OR IS IT ALL ABOUT YOU?

My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes on the podcast again to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual. Challenge yourself a bit by listening to this episode and explore the ways in which you may be distorting your thoughts. Self reflection is an important part of overcoming. This episode is meant to bri...

Ep.38: IS IT ALL ABOUT ME OR IS IT ALL ABOUT YOU? Pt.1

My wonderful and insightful mental health counselor Carmen Berzinski comes on the podcast again to talk to us about cognitive distortions. The way you treat people or people treat you can be a defining way in which we view the world. We all look through a lens that may not be entirely factual. Challenge yourself a bit by listening to this episode and explore the ways in which you may be distorting your thoughts. Self reflection is an important part of overcoming. This episode is meant to bri...

Ep.36: IVF Life with Anne, Pt. 2

Anne is focused and optimistic as she looks at a future she has created for herself, quite literally sprouting with opportunity. When someone told her 'No' she went on to discover another way. I am so invested in bringing her story to your ears while honoring a safe place she can share it. It is unfolding and blossoming in real-time. Don't miss it. She is whole-heartedly ready to be a mommy and is vulnerable and brave to share her journey with us. Part 2 is available wherever you listen to p...

Ep.37: Hospice Diaries with KaLee (from Knute Nelson)

KaLee is my previous colleague from Knute Nelson Hospice of Alexandria, MN. We worked together 3 wonderful-yet short months in 2014. I was hired to be Knute Nelson's Lead Social Worker and was absolutely thriving in my job when I recieved a horrible diagnosis of disease and would soon face the possibilities of death myself. My Chondroblastic Osteosarcoma would kill me if I didn't fight it. Before death, commonly comes diseases. How does someone navigate those chaotic waters? KaLee is super p...

Ep.35: Shelby Is BACK and Talks About Self Care

Last year was tough on everyone. How are you focusing on slowing down and taking care of yourself? Then, how do we care for our kids or family members? Self pity is human nature. So is sadness in difficult times. Grace is important. Shelby is back to talk to us about overcoming addiction, creating healthy habits, and making daily rituals. Hope this episodes find you doing well. Be sure to find some stillness this weekend or whatever your soul needs to be well cared for! One day at a time. Sp...

Ep.34: Life, Cancer, Etc. with Heidi Bragg

Episode 34: Life, Cancer, Etc. with Heidi Bragg @lifecanceretc Heidi Bragg had me on her podcast (Life, Cancer, Etc) to hear more about my story with cancer and my decision to become paralyzed and a wheelchair user but survive. It was an awesome interview. She shares more about her story too but be sure to go back to her first episodes and hear it from her directly as there is so much goodness in her podcast surrounding cancer and overcoming. I'm so impressed with Heidi's mission and my fi...

Ep. 33: IVF Life with Anne, Pt. 1

Anne is the 3rd eldest child her parents decided to adopt but never had a relationship with her birth parents.  She had an excellent experience growing up with her adoptive family.  The example of healthy relationships her parents so carefully displayed is a major catalyst to why she is now dreaming about her own.  Anne is finally at a point in life where she and her husband Jeff want to have children.  Come along with me to hear all about how Anne has chosen to overcome difficult realizatio...

Ep.32: My Layover Life with Paul Holte

(The son of the eye doctor extraordinaire) Paul says he wants to teach his kids to fly planes but not just anyone. I tell him I want to learn, and he agrees. That is what we call Minnesota nice, folks. Come hear about how Paul got the passion for flying all because his dad loved him and wanted him to succeed. Talking to Paul was a TRIP! Check out his happenings, departures, and landings on his Instagram @mylayoverlife and on YouTube My Layover Life for a complete photo and video blog about h...

Ep.31: Macy (my Helping Paws service dog with Dawn, Brian, & Eileen)

In 2015 my family applied to Helping Paws to get me a service dog. I am so blessed that they had confidence in the organization and myself to find an excellent match that would greatly impact my recovery after cancer and my ever changing independence. Eileen started helping paws 35 years ago and it was from that very moment on that God started working in the Cherwinka's life and mine. Since those many years ago, Helping Paws and it's incredible foster families are changing lives across the u...

Ep.30: Kelly Brush Foundation

At 19 years of age, Kelly was a sophomore in college and was in an awful skiing accident that left her paralyzed. Today, she describes her life of resilience and how she came to create her foundation (while also being a mom) AND a pediatric nurse. Tess was the recipient of a grant gifted by the Kelly Brush Foundation that went towards a brand new hand cycle 3 years ago. If you know someone who could benefit from hearing this interview, please share it! We want people to not feel alone after ...

Episode 29: Adam Schomer

"The True Invitation of this life is to discover the truth of who you are. And that's the only thing that will set us Free. Because the truth of who you are is incomparable to any image you have of yourself." - Anand Mehrotra . "Happiness and Kindness need no reason at all.” - Buddhist Proverb. “The key is to Allow. We become aware first, then allow ourselves to feel. By allowing, we are already Expanding our awareness. We will see that we do not needto escape or strategize out of a circumsta...

Ep. 28: Kenz

Makenzie and Devon were enjoying a beautiful Sunday when the unthinkable happened. Their motorcycle lost control and sent them flying. Kenz was able to use her Apple watch to call for an ambulance before losing consciousness as her body was bleeding out in a ditch at rapid speed. Thankfully, they are both alive and well but not without challenges. Relearning basic things you were taught as a child and have become so used to (like walking) is a traumatic yet empowering experience to live thro...

Episode 27: Dan for Dare2Tri

Hey Everyone! Thanks for being here and being so awesome. I see your encouragement and am so thankful. Dan from Dare2Tri came on the podcast to talk about his organization he created with 2 friends, Karrie and Melissa. Be sure to head back to 'Episode 12: Melissa' to hear her incredible story of resilience as well. Dare2tri has granted me access to triathlon while helping me become more comfortable with adaptive sports with a disabled body. It is a life-changing organization for people with ...

Ep 26: December 2020 Funsies

We wanted to bring you some joy this holiday season with some light hearted fun. Come talk the holidays with Tess, Ty, and Heather on this uplifting episode! Head back to Episode 2 to hear Heather's episode and visit patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast to have access to exclusive content. Be sure to visit our website to see the episodes at pushdiariespodcast.com

Ep. 25: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt. 3

If you haven't listened to Part 1 and 2 with Carmen, head back to episode 22 and 23 to listen to those first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing her knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 4 coming soon where we will talk about Cognitive Distortions. Be sure to be safe and have a happy holiday, even if it looks a little different this year. Try to be p-r-e-s-e-n-t!

Episode 24: Eva

100 years ago, 6-year-old Ruby went to an all white school for the very first time escorted by 4 US Marshalls because there were white protesters that didn’t want her to go to public (desegregating) school. Come along on the journey as Eva from the small town of St. Charles MN shares her experience growing up, Ness from Episode 15 helps Cohost, and Host Tess talk about race relations today and how it is changing. Be sure to vote and make your voice heard. It is our civic duty to create the A...

Ep.23 Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt 2

If you haven't listened to Part 1 with Carmen, head back 1 episode to listen to that first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing your knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 3 coming soon.

Ep.23: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt 2

If you haven't listened to Part 1 with Carmen, head back 1 episode to listen to that first. Many thanks to Carmen for sharing your knowledge regarding these complex issues with us! We are lucky to have such light. I hope you will all bask in the goodness this message brings. Part 3 coming soon.

Ep. 22: Change Your Beliefs to Change Your Life, Pt 1.

My incredible therapist has granted exclusive access on how to handle our changing beliefs as we age and go throughout life to my podcast listeners! I'm so grateful for a therapist who sees the value in sharing stories and knowledge with those who could benefit from it. Thank you for being here. I want to hear your stories! #knowledgeispower #comparison #cognitivedistortion #brenebrown #thefouragreements #guideposts #personalgrowth #bekindtoyourself #therapy #counselor #therapist #mentalhea...

Episode 21: Blacktop Billy (My Dad)

Host Tess’s dad shares his experience working for Wenonah Canoe as a retired man post a career being a teacher while actually on the road with Tess! He goes into detail about when Tess was first diagnosed with a chondroblastic osteosarcoma and the immediate loss of her lower body’s ability. Billy and Tess also share memories of family travel and their favorite stops along the way. Blacktop Billy is his road name and he will be back! Stay tuned for more interviews.

Episode 20: Jeff and Barb

Episode 20: Jeff and Barb met on an airplane 5 years ago. Little did they know, they would quickly fall in love, and become each other's family. Listen to their incredible story of resilience and overcoming despite awful run-ins with cancer. Jeff & Barb hope you feel inspired to never stop pushing and to never give up on hope. You won't want to miss this one... These 2 incredible people will leave you speechless. Plus, Barb has the best laugh. Come along with me and hear their journey. To d...

Episode 20: Jeff & Barb

Episode 20: Jeff and Barb met on an airplane 5 years ago. Little did they know, they would quickly fall in love, and become each other's family. Listen to their incredible story of resilience and overcoming despite awful run-ins with cancer. Jeff & Barb hope you feel inspired to never stop pushing and to never give up on hope. You won't want to miss this one... These 2 incredible people will leave you speechless. Plus, Barb has the best laugh. Come along with me and hear their journey. To d...

Ep. 19: Zach for ReWalk

ReWalk Robotics is an incredible company that makes exoskeletons for people who can no longer walk due to complications with their health. Hear from the guru himself, Zachary Waugh, on how he became a professional with the company and a man forever changed and inspired by it. Push Diaries Podcast thanks ReWalk for letting us borrow Zach for the duration of this episode! Many many many thanks to Zach for sharing all of his passion, insight, and time with us! It is physical therapists and engi...

Episode 18: Rabbit Hole with Jess & Tess (2)

Please be aware that adult language is used in the making of this episode. Shield tiny ears. Jessie comes on the podcast to chat again since Episode 7 to catch up about life and some other unscripted fun! We discuss the podcast, how I edit/interview, Jessie's work, things that have been on our minds lately, quarantine craze, our immune system, documentaries, our new homes, and so much more! Come hang out with us on this beautiful sun shiny day! We are so happy to have you be a part of the co...

Episode 17: Lily

Lily is one of Host Tess’s best friends from high school who has been serving the public since before she graduated high school. Lily is the 2nd child born out of 5 and has always had a passion for taking care of those around her. Lily’s first job was a lifeguard for the community pool, and her first schooling was for emergency medical training (EMT). She currently works as a Fire Control-man for the Norfolk Virginia Naval Base, the largest naval base in the country. Her flavor is Tomahawk m...

Episode 16: Erica

Erica fell in love with running and her husband Joe from Hastings Minnesota when she was in her early 20s. They wanted to start a family but had no idea what challenges would be ahead of them before growing their family. Erica was ecstatic and shocked when she peed on a stick and found out she was pregnant. Joe was surprised it happened so fast and couldn't wait to be a daddy. Little did they know, they would be brought through a terrible loss and diagnosed with a terrifying condition before...

Episode 15: Manasseh (Ness)

Manasseh is the director and creator of Hope Fuse in Rochester, MN, which instills hope in at-risk youth while providing diverse mentor-ship. Success has not come to him easily but with the confidence from excellent parents, structure from sports with hard work, and the faith to do good has got him here. He has now devoted his life as a professional, friend, and father to mentor those who need it most while never giving up. There were numerous people who tried to take him down because of wha...

Episode 14: Mike Mac

Mike Mac is a Music Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Songwriter. He currently lives, works, and plays in a suburb near LA. Mike had to learn at a young age how to be resilient over his physical situation and lean into his mental and emotional strength. His story is nothing short of incredible, and I am so excited for you to hear his great knowledge on how he gets through life's trials. Can't stop him.

Ep. 13: Ashlin and Josiah

Ashlin and Josiah met and wrestled with what Christ wanted for them individually before joining them together in holy union. Their journey through self-worth, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty of health is an intimate one we are blessed to witness. Ashlin and Josiah want you to know you are loved by God no matter where you are at in life, no matter what you have done, or are doing. He loves you.

Episode 12: Melissa

Melissa Stockwell went to Baghdad when she was 24 years old and lost her leg to a roadside bomb. This is a bonus episode for the 4th of July. Have a lovely weekend everyone! Be sure to head to pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/melissa to learn more and get connected. Thank you so much for listening!

Episode 11: Tasha

Tasha Schuh broke her neck after a horrific fall during a school play when she was only 16. Today she helps students and people of all ages learn about resiliency. She is the author of 2 books and is a mentor in the disability community. Come along with us and be a part of the conversation with Tasha and Host Tess.

Episode 10: Kelsey

Kelsey dove into a 3 foot lake in a lapsed-reality split-second decision that forever changed her life. She traveled all over the country to find the answers around healing and paralysis. PBS is featuring her documentary about her journey on their networks. SUBMERGED, COMING SOON. Her story is incredible, come listen to her experience.

Episode 9: Anton

"There is a dynamic and surging movement to revitalize Ojibwe and other indigenous languages. Work like this is a team effort with many, many contributors—language warriors every one of them. I am truly humbled, honored, and inspired to a part of the team. Miigwech gakina giinawaa anokiitameg gidinwewininaan!" -Anton

Episode 8: Shelby

Shelby woke up a morning after drinking and had no idea how she got there or why she was in a hospital. Purchase The Big Book to start overcoming today. Time is precious but most importantly---yours. Be sure to check pushdiariespodcast.com/episodes/shelby to see the links, story, and photos from the podcast. Thank you for listening! Support the show at Patreon.com/pushdiariespodcast

Episode 7: Rabbit Hole w/Jess & Tess

JESSIE IS A CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITIONIST & SHE IS TESS' FRIEND! COME HANG OUT! **PLEASE BE AWARE THAT SOME ADULT LANGUAGE IS USED.** Released Spring 5/1/20, Recorded Jan. 2020

Episode 6: Ashlan

Come listen to Episode 6! Ashlan's story of her dad's cancer journey, marriage, finding her faith, having kids, and coming to the decision with her husband Matt to adopt is nothing short of inspiring. Welcome to the family, Isaiah! If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum depression.org visit the website for a helpline or feel free to reach out to Ashlan! Thank you for listening! I want to hear your stories. -Tess, Producer, Push Diaries Podcast

Episode 5: Abri

The Team Abri Foundation started around 2015 when Nikkole and Abri, a mother and daughter facing childhood cancer, limb salvage surgery, and amputation decided to help other families facing the same immense difficulty. They believe hugely in trusting God to provide them and other families strength while going through similar heartbreaks. Join this 40,000 member team today! Support on Venmo TODAY

Episode 4: Jacob

Mimi Lemay is an advocate, woman of faith, mother, strong believer in freedom, strength, truth, and love, but most of all a voice for the LGBTQ community.

Episode 3, Pt.2: David

Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual independence." -David Hayward of New Brunswick, Canada

Episode 3, Pt.1: David

Who is nakedpastor? He's a former pastor turned cartoonist. "I help people deconstruct without the self-destruct. I help people lose their faith without losing their minds. I help people undress their religion to the core essential of their own unique spirituality. I call this spiritual independence." -David Hayward of New Brunswick, Canada

Ep. 2: Heather

This is Heather’s story. It was very hard for her to share. Trusting God or the universe with our lives is never easy. Heather is honest and unreserved despite the turmoil of her situation. She wants you to know about the genetic disease her family faces daily called Metachromatic Leukodystrophy. A disease that robs her later adult years. In people with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy, white matter damage causes progressive deterioration of intellectual functions and motor skills, such as the a...

Episode 2: Heather

Episode 1: Annette

Annette Ross was featured on the recent HBO documentary called Any One of Us. She was paralyzed by an epidural gone wrong. This has been a Push Diaries Podcast. I’m creating a collection of stories showcasing resilient people who overcome unimaginable hardships while finding beauty in the ups and downs of life. Every moment is significant. Please visit our website at pushdiariespodcast.com to see our mission and learn more about the guests. This is your podcast too. I want to hear your...