Wisdom Shared with Carole Blueweiss

Episode Summary

Craig and Karey Packard share their inspiring story about facing an unexpected health crisis that forever changed their lives. They recount how the life-saving power of CPR played a critical role in a miraculous outcome. Their story is one of faith and resilience and a good reminder of the power of preparation in the event of the unexpected. 

About Craig & Karey Packard

Craig and Karey Packard live in Londonderry, NH.  They have been married for 36 years and have 4 children and 2 grandchildren.  

Craig did his undergraduate work at Tufts University, completed medical school at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and later added a Masters in Public Health from Harvard. He served as a doctor in the US Air Force for 26 years before retiring from the military in 2011 after which he worked in the Occupational Medicine field for an additional 10 years before fully retiring. He was board-certified in Family Medicine, Aerospace Medicine, and Occupational Medicine.

Karey graduated from Clarion State College with a degree in accounting after which she received an Associates degree in paralegal studies at George Washington University. She had to leave the workforce when their oldest son was diagnosed with leukemia and with the frequent military moves, she never returned to the paid workforce.  Among her numerous volunteer roles, she has worked for the American Heart Association as an advocate for CPR training and heart health for the past decade.

From This Episode

Episode Summary

Episode Summary

Sheila Nevins, a prominent documentary filmmaker and best-selling author, discusses her experiences with her son's Tourette syndrome and speaks about the broader themes of aging, disability, and authenticity. Through personal stories and reflections, she sheds light on often misunderstood topics, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation over sensationalism. With humor and candor, Sheila shares her journey of seeking answers and navigating the complexities of life. Her commitment to storytelling is marked by a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, making for a compelling and insightful conversation. Sheila shares a wealth of wisdom for us all.

About Sheila Nevins

Sheila Nevins is an American television producer and former head of MTV Documentary Films division of MTV Entertainment Studios. Previously, Nevins was the President of HBO Documentary Films. She has produced over 1,000 documentary films for HBO and is one of the most influential people in documentary filmmaking. She has worked on productions that have been recognized with 35 News and Documentary Emmy Awards, 42 Peabody Awards, and 26 Academy Awards. Nevins has won 31 individual Primetime Emmy Awards, more than any other person. The film, I Have Tourette's but Tourette's Doen't Have Me, won an Emmy.

Episode Summary

In this episode, I talk with Jay Silverman, an award-winning filmmaker known for his emotionally resonant work. Jay discusses his journey into feature filmmaking, which began with "Girl on the Edge," a deeply personal film inspired by his daughter's recovery through equine therapy. His latest film, "Camera," is another heartfelt project influenced by his experiences as a father of a daughter with impaired speech. Jay shares how his work has become a vehicle for expressing the lessons and wisdom he's gained from these personal experiences, driven by a passion to touch others through his storytelling.

About Jay Silverman

For over 40 years, Jay Silverman has excelled as a leading Director, Producer, and Photographer specializing in award-winning films, television, digital, and print campaigns.

Jay’s narrative films have been awarded numerous Best Feature and Audience Awards at festivals across the country.  His current dramatic feature "Camera", stars Golden Globe, Emmy, and Grammy Award Winner Beau Bridges, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Scotty Tovar, Bruce Davison, and Miguel Gabriel.  It will be released on Amazon and iTunes on July 23rd, 2024.  His first was the multi-award-winning dramatic feature “Girl on the Edge”, starring Peter Coyote, Taylor Spreitler, Mackenzie Phillips, Elizabeth Peňa, Gil Bellows, Rex Lee, Amy Davidson, and Amy Price Francis that premiered on Showtime. His second is the charming romantic comedy “Off the Menu” starring Dania Ramirez, Tony Award Winner Santino Fontana, Makenzie Moss, and Maria Conchita Alonso, which premiered on HBO & Amazon. His third is the true story drama “Saving Paradise” starring William Moseley, Johnna Braddy, Mary Pat Gleason, Bill Cobbs, Paul Dooley, and James Eckhouse currently on Tubi and Amazon.

Episode Summary

Noah, my ATV guide in Alaska, joins me on this episode of Wisdom Shared.  Last season, we heard from Noah's mom, Melissa, who talked about her sobriety journey.  In this discussion, Noah courageously shares his difficult journey with pills. He nearly died. He offers advice, hope, and solidarity to others facing similar struggles. His powerful narrative underscores the transformative power of sharing personal experiences in the hopes of helping others. 

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