Rise Above with Kevin Lanning

Kyle Sandler was once hailed as the tech savior of a small Alabama town — a former Google executive launching a startup incubator with big promises. He raised millions, inspired dreams, and even claimed to have worked closely with cybersecurity pioneer John McAfee. But it was all a lie. In this exclusive interview, Kyle opens up about the truth behind the scam, the fantasy he created, and how he convinced an entire community — and even national media — to believe in him. From tech deception to prison time, this is one of the most unbelievable stories in startup history. This is a raw, honest conversation about ego, addiction to power, and the cost of deception. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Norton’s life changed in an instant when a tackle during a college football game left him paralyzed. Doctors gave him just a 3% chance of regaining movement, but Chris refused to accept that fate. Through relentless determination and unwavering faith, he not only defied the odds but also made headlines when he walked across the stage at graduation and later down the aisle at his wedding. In this powerful conversation, Chris shares his journey of resilience, mindset shifts, and what it truly means to rise above adversity. 🔹 Overcoming paralysis 🔹 The mindset that changed everything 🔹 Walking at his wedding against all odds 🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Chris’s incredible story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, I sit down with Elizabeth Chance, who is approaching 19 years of sobriety. She opens up about the chaos of alcoholism, the breaking point that changed everything, and how she was able to find lasting sobriety. Elizabeth shares the raw truth about addiction, the struggles of early recovery, and the tools she used to maintain a sober life. Whether you’re in recovery, struggling with addiction, or supporting a loved one, her journey is one of hope, resilience, and transformation. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring stories of overcoming adversity! 📩 Need support? Drop a comment below or reach out—you're not alone. #RiseAbove #Sobriety #Recovery #Alcoholism #Addiction #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the FBI believes you’re involved in one of the worst attacks in history? After 9/11, Khalid’s life took a shocking turn when he was interrogated and followed by federal agents—all because hijacker #20 was a member of his mosque and a childhood friend. Brutal interrogations, relentless surveillance, and a world flipped upside down—Khalid’s story didn’t end there. Instead, he made an unbelievable pivot: from being accused to becoming a spy for the U.S. government. In this episode of Rise Above, Khalid reveals the truth behind his terrifying FBI encounters, the shocking moment he realized his friend was a terrorist, and his transformation into a covert intelligence asset. This is a story you won’t believe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Chernow’s powerful story of overcoming alcoholism and transforming his life is nothing short of inspiring. From battling addiction to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Michael shares his raw and honest journey of hitting rock bottom, finding sobriety, and building Creatures of Habit, a brand dedicated to health, wellness, and personal growth. In this conversation, Michael opens up about: • The struggles of alcoholism and its impact on his life • The turning point that led him to seek help • The challenges and triumphs of sobriety • How he channeled his energy into entrepreneurship • Advice for anyone struggling with addiction If you or someone you know is battling addiction, this episode is a must-watch. Let Michael’s story serve as proof that change is possible, and success is within reach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norman Seabrook, the once-powerful president of the Corrections Officers’ Union at Rikers Island, built a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the prison system—until it all came crashing down. Arrested and convicted for corruption, Norman went from overseeing guards to serving time behind bars. In this explosive interview, he reveals the dark realities of Rikers Island, the power struggles within the system, and what led to his shocking downfall. Was he a corrupt leader or a victim of the system he once controlled? Watch now to hear the untold story from the man who lived it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nelson was once at the top of a multi-million dollar health insurance fraud scheme—until the feds came knocking. In this episode of Rise Above, he takes us inside the world of healthcare fraud, how he got caught, and what life was like in federal prison. But his story doesn’t end there. After serving his time, Nelson turned his life around, overcoming a heavy binge eating disorder and building a new career in podcasting. This is a raw and inspiring conversation about crime, redemption, and second chances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick, an Air Force Sergeant, shares his harrowing experiences from multiple deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan—dodging bullets, surviving bombings, and losing friends to war and suicide. In this powerful episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, he opens up about the lasting mental health toll of combat and the tools he’s used to heal. Now a fitness trainer, Nick has transformed his trauma into strength, proving that resilience is possible after war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Kevin Lanning sits down with John Valerio, a man whose journey from suburban normalcy to addiction, crime, and near-death survival is nothing short of jaw-dropping. John opens up about how a tragic turn of events spiraled his life out of control—starting with his father’s sudden abandonment, a painkiller prescription after a quad accident, and how it all led to full-blown heroin addiction. As his need for the next fix grew, so did the chaos: robberies, gun violence, and prison time became his reality. But John's story didn’t end there. In one of the most shocking moments of his life, John survived a suicide attempt that should have killed him. Instead, it became his turning point. Now, he’s not only clean and sober but also a dedicated father, family man, and successful business owner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, BetterHelp. Get 10% off your first month at: betterhelp.com/riseabove In this special episode of Rise Above, the roles are reversed as Annabella Rockwell interviews the usual host, Kevin Lanning. Kevin opens up about his personal journey—starting from his days playing college sports, climbing the ranks in corporate America, and eventually facing addiction to OxyContin. Now, with 7 years clean and sober, Kevin shares the powerful tools, mindset shifts, and support systems that keep him grounded and on track every day. This honest and vulnerable conversation dives deep into overcoming addiction, finding purpose after hitting rock bottom, and what it really takes to maintain sobriety long-term. If you’re seeking inspiration or strategies to rise above your own challenges, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 16, Mo Nelson was involved in a robbery on the USF campus in Florida that turned tragic when his codefendant shot and killed a 57-year-old man. Charged with first-degree murder and attempted robbery, Mo was sentenced to 15 years in prison. But instead of letting prison define him, he took full accountability, surrounded himself with the right people, and committed to deep self-reflection and change. Today, Mo is a completely different person—helping others break cycles of crime and find a better path. In this episode, Mo shares his journey of transformation, what prison taught him about life, and how he turned his darkest moment into a mission to inspire others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Votrobek, once at the center of one of the most notorious pill mill operations in the country, joins me for an exclusive interview to reveal the shocking truth behind the prescription drug epidemic. As the co-owner of Atlanta Medical Group, a Georgia-based pain clinic that became one of the top distributors of Oxycodone in the nation, Votrobek made millions before the law caught up with him. His network of pill mill pain clinics stretched from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta, flooding the streets with highly addictive opioids and fueling a crisis that devastated countless lives.In this deep-dive conversation, Jason opens up about: 🔹 How his clinics operated as a front for mass opioid distribution 🔹 The loopholes that allowed pill mills to thrive across state lines 🔹 The role of doctors, fake patients, and big pharma in fueling the crisis 🔹 His 15-year federal prison sentence and what he learned behind bars 🔹 The impact of the opioid epidemic and his message for those still struggling This is a raw and unfiltered look at the rise and fall of a pill mill empire. Watch now to hear Jason’s side of the story and the lessons he learned from living on both sides of the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ross Mandell, a former Wall Street broker and the founder of Sky Capital, once dominated the financial markets before being convicted of a $140 million fraud scheme and serving over nine years in prison. Accused of manipulating the London Stock Exchange, Mandell faced intense legal battles, extradition challenges, and the harsh realities of the federal justice system. Now free and determined to make a difference, Mandell has reinvented himself as an educator and online course creator. He shares hard-earned lessons through The Wealth Formula, teaching others how to turn ideas into businesses. Beyond finance, he has dedicated himself to helping families navigate college recruitment and coaching young athletes. In this interview, Mandell breaks down his rise in the financial world, the scandals that led to his downfall, his struggles with addiction, and his inspiring journey to redemption. From speaking in the House of Parliament to the inside story of the Madoff scandal—this is a must-watch deep dive into the mind of a man who lost everything and fought to build a new legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach Rance, known from Big Brother, reveals the harsh reality of life after the show, describing how his world came crashing down. In this powerful conversation, he shares how he hit rock bottom and rebuilt his life through structure, discipline, consistency, and fitness. Now a thriving entrepreneur, Zach opens up about the mindset and habits that helped him turn it all around. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Daniel Phaithaisong, better known as internet personality Dpeezy2099, opens up about his addiction to Xanax, lean, and methadone, as well as his struggles with the law that led to multiple stints in prison. In 2021, while living in a sober house, he discovered content creation—a passion that not only changed his life but also helped him stay clean. Daniel shares the highs and lows of his journey, from the depths of addiction and incarceration to finding purpose through social media. His story is a testament to resilience, proving that no matter how far someone falls, there is always a way back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Jablin lived a double life—on the surface, he was a devoted husband and father, but behind closed doors, he was battling a relentless addiction to alcohol. Now sober since 2006, he shares the brutal consequences of his alcoholism, how it tore apart his family, and the turning point that led him to recovery. In this powerful episode, Adam discusses where and how to get help, his experience bridging back to life, and the challenges of navigating divorce with kids while rebuilding trust and purpose. His story is a raw and inspiring testament to the power of redemption and second chances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Linda Varisco was indicted in a massive FBI healthcare fraud case—but that’s not where her story ends. In this episode of Rise Above, she shares her side of the scandal, the lessons she learned, and how she rebuilt her life after facing federal charges. From being named in a high-profile indictment to finding redemption, Dr. Varisco’s journey is one of resilience, accountability, and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debi Borger, founder of DB Wellbeing and creator of the transformative E3 Method, shares her powerful story of recovery and reinvention. After a devastating car wreck and hitting rock bottom, Debi got sober, but for her first nine years, she avoided working a recovery program, which led to heartbreak, ending an engagement, and moving back home. Now, with over a decade of sobriety and actively working a program, Debi has rebuilt her life as a life coach and nutritionist, helping others overcome similar struggles. In this interview, she opens up about the difference between going it alone and embracing a program, navigating social settings sober, overcoming trauma, and empowering women to elevate their lives through mindset, fitness, and holistic wellness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rise Above, Parker, a recovering fentanyl and heroin addict, shares her powerful journey of relapse and redemption. She opens up about how not working a strong recovery program led her back to a brutal lifestyle of addiction, but also how she found the strength to rebound and rebuild. Parker dives deep into the lessons learned from her relapse, the harsh realities of addiction, and the mindset shifts that saved her life, offering inspiration for anyone battling addiction or supporting someone in recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Hollins Jr. was on top of the world as the #1 high school recruit in the country, destined for greatness—until one fateful night changed everything. Sentenced to four years in prison for stabbing two men at a college party, Brett faced the devastating consequences of his actions. But his story doesn’t end there. After serving his time, Brett rebuilt his life, becoming a symbol of resilience and redemption. Today, he dedicates himself to helping others rise above their own hardships and find a path to recovery and purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan, 13 years sober from fentanyl and heroin, shares his raw and unfiltered journey of addiction and redemption. From running the dangerous streets of Kensington, robbing dealers, and spending time in jail to going through 20+ inpatient facilities, Dan’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and hope. Tune in to hear how he turned his life around and found purpose in sobriety. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, this conversation could be the inspiration they need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert shares his powerful story of transformation after being sentenced to 23 years in federal prison for cocaine conspiracy and a firearm charge. A major drug dealer in Tampa, he served nearly 18 years, starting in high-security and working his way down to a camp. Released early during Covid under the CARES Act, Robert has since rebuilt his life. Now married and thriving in real estate, he opens up about life behind bars, the resilience it took to start over, and his path to success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teresa's journey is one of resilience and transformation. Abused by her stepfather, a teen mom at 16, and enduring a painful divorce, she overcame immense challenges to rewrite her story and reshape her family's future. With over 25 years as an entrepreneur and executive, she has built high-performing teams, managed multi-million dollar projects, and founded a million-dollar company. In this episode, Teresa shares her inspiring journey, hard-earned lessons, and practical tools for building strength and resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmanuel Lewis, a former prison correctional guard, endured grueling 16-hour workdays, understaffed facilities, and the daily pressures of managing inmates. The relentless stress not only took a toll on his mental health but also triggered a rare heart condition that caused his skin to turn white over a year. In this eye-opening interview, Emmanuel shares his incredible story of resilience, the challenges of his profession, and the physical transformation that left everyone speechless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Savannah shares her raw and unfiltered journey from the depths of addiction to a life of recovery and hope. Once caught in the grip of heroin and fentanyl, she turned to stripping and selling drugs in strip clubs to support her habit, which eventually led to jail time. Her story is wild, heartbreaking, and ultimately one of resilience and redemption, as she overcame incredible odds to get clean and sober and now inspires others to do the same. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a riveting episode of the Rise Above Podcast! In this exclusive interview, we speak with the notorious Joe Exotic, star of Netflix's "Tiger King," straight from prison. Joe opens up about his latest efforts to secure a pardon, his ambitions to run for president in 2024, and the shocking conditions inside the prison. Joe shares the latest developments in his bid for a presidential pardon, discusses his bold plans to run for president and his vision for America, and exposes the appalling state of cleanliness in the prison. He also provides insight into his mental health journey while incarcerated and lightens the mood with some entertaining and unexpected stories from behind bars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Parisi, whose family founded the iconic Parisi Bakery in Little Italy, shares his extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation. Battling the shadow of his father’s organized crime ties and his own addiction to opiates, Frank emerged 13 years clean and sober, embracing mindset shifts and strategies for growth. In this episode, he opens up about overcoming adversity, achieving abundance, and building a lasting legacy. Frank’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-discovery, offering practical advice for anyone ready to reclaim their life and thrive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel shares her journey through alcoholism, the turning point that led her to sobriety, and the profound impact it had on her mental health. With honesty and courage, Rachel discusses the struggles of addiction, the challenges of recovery, and how embracing sobriety has transformed her life. Her story is a testament to resilience and hope, inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rise Above, singer-songwriter Gabrielle Cacciola opens up about her journey of resilience and creativity. Hailing from the Bronx, Gabrielle shares her experiences with anxiety and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes and addressing root causes over medication. She discusses her Italian heritage, her family’s deep musical roots, and the story behind her upcoming single set to release in January. Gabrielle also delves into her martial arts journey, training alongside MMA fighters and the Pereira family, and how it has shaped her discipline and mental health. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity and embracing self-empowerment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From rock bottom to redemption, Louis Essig shares his incredible journey of transformation. After experiencing the cycle of addiction, homelessness, and incarceration, Louis turned his life around in an unexpected way—by becoming an officer at the very jail where he once served time. In this powerful episode, Louis opens up about growing up in a small town, the challenges of college life, his time as a dealer, and the pivotal moments that changed his path forever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the world of Mark Chauppetta, a seasoned private detective, as he shares gripping stories from his career, including the Karen Read case, shocking inmate scandals, and the dark truths of the entertainment industry. In this candid conversation, Mark opens up about the mental toll of his work, the challenges of undercover investigations, and balancing a demanding career with family life. This powerful blend of shocking revelations and heartfelt insights offers a unique look at resilience, justice, and the intense pressures behind the scenes. A must-watch for true crime and mental health enthusiasts alike! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katie, a former nurse, became addicted to opiates after being prescribed Percocet following surgery. Her addiction led to stealing liquid Fentanyl from work and using it intravenously. In 2022, she faced federal charges and hit rock bottom. Now, two years clean, Katie has turned her life around. She’s reestablished her connection with God and speaks at facilities to warn others about addiction and educate nurses on the severity of her actions. She’s a loving mother, devoted wife, and a powerful example of redemption and faith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping episode of Rise Above, Manny, a 1% biker in the infamous Outlaws Motorcycle Club, shares his extraordinary journey of survival and transformation. From being shot in the face and stabbed to battling a near-fatal struggle with alcoholism in 2020, Manny’s story is one of unrelenting adversity and remarkable resilience. Now sober, Manny reflects on the lessons he’s learned, the challenges of his past, and the strength it took to rise above it all. This is a story you don’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andreea, shares her story of being arrested for assisting immigrants in entering the country and committing tax fraud tied to Gene Friedman’s yellow cab taxi company. After serving prison time, Andreea turned her life around and is now the host of a successful podcast and a thriving business owner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode, Karissa shares her harrowing journey through addiction, multiple DWIs, and the dark realities of an alcoholic's lifestyle. We dive into the psychological factors that lead to reckless decisions like drunk driving, the development of drinking issues, and the devastating long-term effects of substance abuse. Karissa opens up about her struggles, the dangerous behaviors fueled by alcohol, and the deeper issues behind addiction, offering raw insights into her path to self-awareness and recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retired NYPD Detective Tom Smith, host of the Gold Shields podcast, shares a gripping account of one of the most intense moments in his career—stopping a school shooter on the day of the planned attack. With 17 years of experience on the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Tom provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes law enforcement. From life-saving decisions to the relentless dedication required to protect the public, this episode dives deep into the challenges, skills, and moments that defined his extraordinary career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Kevin Lanning sits down with Ginjer, a recovering opiate addict and alcoholic whose life took a devastating turn during the height of the opiate epidemic. Ginjer opens up about the tragic night she fatally struck a 16-year-old girl while driving under the influence, an event that led to her imprisonment. Now in recovery, she shares her raw and emotional journey of accountability, healing, and redemption. This is a story of unimaginable loss, personal growth, and the hope for a second chance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victor Shear's life took a dark turn when his opiate addiction spiraled out of control. To fund his habit, he became a professional bank robber, a decision that ultimately landed him in Clinton prison in New York. Released in 2020, Victor has since turned his life around and is now clean. In this raw and powerful episode, he opens up about the highs and lows of his journey—from addiction and crime to recovery and redemption. Don’t miss this gripping story of resilience and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bryan reveals his gripping journey from working with the infamous Gulf Cartel to surviving the harsh realities of Texas federal prisons. In this episode, Bryan shares the high-stakes life of drug trafficking, his run-ins with the DEA, and the life-or-death decisions he faced behind bars. Discover how he turned his darkest moments into a story of resilience and redemption. Don’t miss this eye-opening account of crime, punishment, and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From a life of crime to the spotlight of hip-hop, Majesti’s journey is one of resilience, redemption, and transformation. In this episode, she opens up about her raw and unfiltered path—overcoming prison, embracing her passion, and rising as a powerful voice in the music world. Don’t miss this inspiring story of a career criminal turned rap icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside America’s most successful correctional facility, where one warden’s focus on rehabilitation and mental health has led to the lowest repeat offender rate in the country. Hear how he transforms lives while balancing his own mental well-being in this inspiring interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, Mike Peters shares his powerful story of resilience, from his challenging beginnings in the inner city to a life-altering journey through the prison system. Faced with the pressure to support his family, Mike turned to selling drugs, a choice that ultimately led him to incarceration. But instead of giving up, he used his time to reflect, grow, and prepare for a new path. Now, Mike is a successful entrepreneur, defying the odds and breaking the cycle. Join us as Mike reveals how he overcame immense adversity and transformed his life from survival to success, inspiring others to believe in second chances and the power of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, we sit down with D'nita, a former D1 college basketball star and prison corrections officer from New Jersey, whose life took an unimaginable turn in an instant. One morning on her way to work, a car accident changed everything, taking a life and placing her on a path that led from guarding prison cells to living in one. D'nita shares her journey of resilience, the strength she found after multiple surgeries, and how she’s finding meaning in her new life. Join us for a raw conversation about accountability, healing, and how one moment can redefine everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Jacob Gentry shares the harrowing story of his wrongful conviction for murder—a sentence that nearly cost him 30 years of his life. What started as a night of self-defense in a brutal fight turned into a legal nightmare when corrupt prosecutors twisted the truth, painting Jacob as a killer. Instead of justice, Jacob was thrown into a broken system, branded a murderer, and sentenced to decades behind bars. He reveals the details of his fight for freedom, the shocking misconduct in his case, and how his conviction was ultimately overturned. This episode exposes the deep flaws in the criminal justice system and the resilience of a man determined to clear his name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the world of wiretaps and covert investigations with Jon Molik, a veteran detective and wiretap expert. In this in-depth interview, Jon reveals the fascinating techniques and challenges behind catching criminals on tape, sharing some of the most unexpected and humorous moments he’s experienced in law enforcement. Now living a sober life, Jon also discusses his personal journey to sobriety, reflecting on how it has impacted his perspective on his work, life, and resilience. This episode offers a unique look into the highs and lows of investigative work, the realities of life after law enforcement, and an inspiring story of overcoming adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Steve shares his unbelievable story of survival, resilience, and success. After losing both parents to cartel violence in Cali, Colombia, Steve was thrust into a world of uncertainty at a young age. But through grit and determination, he carved a path from working in nightclubs to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Join us as Steve opens up about his journey—surviving tragedy, overcoming resentment, and finding happiness. This conversation is packed with insights on personal growth, the importance of relationships, and what it takes to turn dreams into reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this powerful episode, Olivia shares her gripping story of addiction, recovery, and redemption. From the chaotic lifestyle of opiate and heroin abuse to her journey through jail and rehab, Olivia opens up about the darkest moments of her life, including the shocking discovery that her dad's dealer was fueling her addiction. Now over six years clean, Olivia is turning her life around and pursuing her passion to become a nurse. Join us as she talks about overcoming judgment, finding purpose, and the strength it takes to rise above a brutal past. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Dr. Nadine Macaluso shares her experiences, including her marriage to Jordan Belfort, 'The Wolf of Wall Street.' Our conversation goes beyond her story, diving into the psychology of trauma bonding, narcissism, gaslighting, and manipulation. Dr. Nadine sheds light on recognizing toxic behaviors and the process of breaking free, while also sharing what truly defines a healthy, supportive relationship. Whether you're interested in her journey or want to understand the dynamics of abusive relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on healing and building resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, I sit down with a career criminal whose life has been shaped by a cycle of crime, gang loyalty, and years spent in correctional facilities across Tennessee. With raw honesty, he shares his story, detailing the choices that led him into a life of crime and the influence of gang culture on his decisions. Together, we explore the factors that pull individuals into this world, the hard truths of prison life, and the challenges of finding purpose and change within the prison walls. His journey offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of someone who has lived almost entirely within the system—and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices