I Need Blue

After the devastating loss of her daughter Maddisyn Colleen to a shallow water blackout, Michelle opens up about her journey through grief and healing. In this deeply emotional conversation, Michelle shares the wisdom and kindness Maddi left behind, and how her untimely death became a catalyst for Michelle’s personal growth. Candidly recounting the emotional turmoil of guilt and broken promises, Michelle reflects on her path through PTSD and the transformative power of community and creative expression. From ketamine therapy to meditation, Michelle explores unconventional methods of healing while building a community that supports those facing similar losses. Join us as we honor Maddisyn’s life, discover the lessons Michelle learned, and find hope in the darkest of times. Her book, "Please Don't Say That Sh*t," offers a poignant and practical guide for those struggling with unhelpful comments in grief, providing insight into the healing process and the importance of a supportive network. If you're in need of immediate support or help with thoughts of self-harm, please reach out to someone you trust or contact a mental health professional. If you're experiencing a crisis, I encourage you to call a suicide prevention hotline, such as: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.)You don’t have to go through this alone—help is available, and reaching out is a brave first step. Contact Michelle: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellecbutler11 To order "Please don't say that Sh*t!": https://www.amazon.com/Please-Dont-Say-That-Sh-ebook/dp/B0CLL1DJXV/ref=sr_1_1crid=19R94WI81LAKP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RV8mOSMjcI0aKHqfj71ZqtMW_nP6NhIMI2bJCIQxEoWDKNvdISe5wMi8MyPGwrMjGKVdoXe97EUzLVA5Va-VtJBZ9xyBMhFrA2XWouFVmUU.BOYsXs7xl89u7LgR-o7SuH2UJo-gcpW_Q9SJ-0fxw7w&dib_tag=se&keywords=please+dont+say+that+sh*t&qid=1732303517&sprefix=please+dont+say+that+sh+t%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-1 To order "Befriending my Grief Monster": https://www.amazon.com/Befriending-My-Grief-Monster-Navigating/dp/B0CVLMN4TL/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= To attend a healing session at the Center for Spiritual Care in Vero Beach, FL: FB: https://www.facebook.com/CenterForSpiritualCare/ Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683 Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935 Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews Purchase my book: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee https://whyisurvived.com/ The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good. https://chargood.com/home Support the show

In this deeply moving episode of the I Need Blue podcast, Carolyn, the inspiring founder of Ocean Sands Wellness, shares her extraordinary journey through unimaginable loss and personal challenges. After the tragic loss of her son, enduring a difficult divorce, facing the emotions of her brothers suicide, and battling breast cancer, Carolyn embarked on a path of unexpected spiritual awakening. Through her experiences, she uncovered six key influences of stress and now channels her insights into a unique blend of healing practices, including cranial sacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, coaching, and Reiki. Carolyn's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative strength we all have within. Connect with Carolyn: Website: www.oceansandswellness.com Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Oceansandswellness/ Business: 321-389-9547 Carolyn's recommended reading list for Personal & Spiritual Growth can be found on https://ineedblue.net/ Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683 Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935 Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews Purchase my book: Why I Survived: How sharing my story helped me heal from dating abuse, armed robbery, abduction, and other forms of trauma by Jennifer Lee https://whyisurvived.com/ The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good. https://chargood.com/home Support the show

Explore the incredible journey of Robbie, a paramedic who braved the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, faced unthinkable trauma, and discovered the profound kindness of humankind in moments of crisis. During the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic in Tampa, he witnessed the chaos and uncertainty that enveloped the healthcare system, where overwhelmed first responders grappled with fragmented communication and escalating demands. Robbie's experiences highlight the immense pressure and emotional toll on individuals committed to saving lives in such dire circumstances. His reflections highlight the critical importance of mental health and the need for supportive relationships with both colleagues and friends beyond the job. Robbie shares the unique challenges of balancing family life while constantly living on "alarm time," always ready for the next call. Through heartfelt anecdotes from his experiences in private and government-funded EMS roles, he provides valuable insights into the differences between these environments and their impact on paramedics' lives. This story is for anyone drawn to this vital work or who wants to understand the dedication of first responders. Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683 Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935 Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews Purchase my book: Why I Survived: How sharing my story helped me heal from dating abuse, armed robbery, abduction, and other forms of trauma by Jennifer Lee https://whyisurvived.com/ The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good. https://chargood.com/home Support the show

Maria invites us into her heart-wrenching journey of family estrangement, where profound sadness overshadows the joy of being a grandparent. Maria's experience highlights the emotional pain of being pushed aside by controlling dynamics in her daughter's marriage, leading to feelings of shame and failure. The gap between her cherished memories and the harsh reality of isolation is painfully evident. Join us for this heartfelt conversation that celebrates the strength of motherhood and the resilience of the human spirit, inviting us all to embrace our own stories and the possibility of mending broken ties. Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935 Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews Purchase my book: Why I Survived: How sharing my story helped me heal from dating abuse, armed robbery, abduction, and other forms of trauma by Jennifer Lee https://whyisurvived.com/ The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by Char Good. https://chargood.com/home Support the show

What happens when a seasoned police dispatcher turns her focus to victim advocacy? Join us as Sandy Dobson shares her powerful journey from a 33-year career as a police and fire dispatcher to becoming an instrumental support system for victims of domestic violence in Palm Bay. Sandy's transition highlights the critical need for recognizing the less visible forms of abuse—mental, emotional, and psychological—and her dedication to guiding victims toward recovery and empowerment. Through Sandy's compelling insights, we uncover the profound impact that dedicated advocates can have on the lives of those they help, offering a beacon of hope and transformation. We also confront the often-ignored issue of domestic abuse against men, shattering the stigma and silence that keeps many from seeking help. By sharing poignant stories and practical advice, we emphasize the importance of community support and the vital role of victim advocates in collaboration with law enforcement. From recognizing the warning signs of abuse to providing resources like Serene Harbor and the Women's Center in Brevard County, this episode is a heartfelt call to action. It's time to stand with all victims, offering unconditional support and encouragement, especially as we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Listen in to discover how you can become a catalyst for change and support those striving for safety and healing. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 SERENE HARBOR HOTLINE NUMBER: 321-726-8282. www.SereneHarbor.org. You can reach their hotline advocates by text, call or TTY. They have a live chat. They is a certified and trained advocate available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, holidays, hurricanes, it doesn't matter. They're there to answer every call, regardless of how it comes through. They are trained to assist right then and there. THE WOMEN'S CENTER OF BREVARD COUNTY, FL: 321-607-6809 https://www.womenscenter.net/ For over 49 years as a local non-profit organization in the Brevard County community, the Women's Center has been on a focused mission to help women, men & children who have faced trauma related to domestic violence & sexual assault. Trauma informed, wraparound programs provide victims with the hope, tools & resources needed to build a healthy & successful future for themselves & their families. Connect with Jen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935 Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews Purchase my book: Why I Survived: How sharing my story helped me heal from dating abuse, armed robbery, abduction, and other forms of trauma by Jennifer Lee https://whyisurvived.com/ Support the show

The reason I Need Blue was paused. Welcome back to I Need Blue, the podcast where untold stories come to life, one episode at a time. I’m your host, Jennifer Lee, and I created this space to foster healing through shared narratives, reminding you that you’re never alone in your journey. After a transformative move and embracing new roles as an advocate, I’m excited to continue connecting with those who have powerful stories to share. Each upcoming episode will feature inspiring guests who showcase our collective strength and resilience. Join us as we embark on this extraordinary journey together—your story matters, and I can’t wait to hear it! For more, visit www.ineedblue.net. Support the show

Join me today in welcoming Brandy, President of Life Recaptured, and Brook who is a survivor of human trafficking. Brandy had a family member who was trafficked by someone they knew. The sadness of the situation inspired her to start Life Recaptured, the first safe home for women who are victims of sex trafficking. Did you know there are cartoon apps which children can access on their phone/IPad and it is a trafficker who has now been given access to everything in the household? Brandy discusses these methods and other ways to recognize signs of sex trafficking. This episode is informative and resourceful. Brook is a survivor. Her story provides hope for other women who think this lifestyle will never end. She shares her reasons why it is hard for women to escape or leave. Brooke shares how she learned to trust in Brandy, humankind and God. How to love and be loved. National hotline: 888-373-7888. For resource information and information about Life Recaptured, visit: www.ineedblue.net and click "Get Help" Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/needbluepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q Website: https://ineedblue.net/ Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com. https://www.purple-planet.com/ Support the show

"My little sister became a victim of human trafficking. At the time, I didn’t know anything about human trafficking. I assumed it was overseas or in another state. I had no idea it would happen in my own backyard. I was hurt and angry. " Meet Brandy, that is her story. Brandy is the President of Life Recaptured and they rescue sex traffic victims. After many prayers, Brandy and her husband heard the calling into the ministry of helping other sex trafficking victims. Brandy shares...