SUPERHUMANS

When was the last time you faced fear head-on? And how did you react in that moment?

Today’s story, told by our beloved friend, Melanie Curtis, reveals how the wrath of fear can either grip you…

… or set you free. 

It’s a choice. Your choice. 

One that can alter self-perception entirely.

Melanie’s story is medicine because it reminds us that fear has the power to take us away from our greatest self, but that We have the power to override it, ultimately changing the course of the life we have left to live. 

So, we invite you to examine who’s holding the pen of your life’s story. 

Is it Fear? Or is it You?

As you listen, think about how you see yourself in Mel’s story

Trigger Warnings: grief, divorce, heartbreak, humiliation

Emotional Themes: trauma healing, soul searching, self-help, freedom, emotional recovery 

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Disclaimer:

This episode mentions the use of psychedelics. The content shared in this episode is for informational purposes only and must not be taken as professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on any practices or substances that could potentially impact your health or have unintended risks, complications or consequences.

STORYTELLER BIO:

Melanie Curtis is a world-record-breaking skydiver. She embodies wild-hearted courage. (We mean that), and pairs it with a sense of humor that warms the soul into finding their Brave self. 

Being ambitious in nature, Melanie is also the Executive Director of the Women’s Skydiving Network nonprofit and the co-founder of the Highlight Pro Skydiving Team —an all-female demonstration jump team—which inspires women & girls to live bold brave lives of their own design and elevate conversations of equality and social justice.

Mel’s fire for living courageously is infectious (in a good way). Which is why we’re proud of her for offering her guidance & gifts to people who are ready to do what Melanie calls “the bravest work there is: looking inward.” 

We want to thank Mel for her willingness to be vulnerable — with herself, with us, and with all of you. 

SHOW NOTES: 

If your life was paired with a musical soundtrack, what would it sound like?

Just like we have 26 letters in the English alphabet to help us craft the language that we call stories, we too have only 12 notes in an octave to help shape an infinite possibility of music.

Today's SUPERHUMANS storyteller, Kendall Ramseur, carries us through a beautifully orchestrated love story. With his original musical composition carrying us alongside his narration, we are invited to move through an emotional symphony that oscillates between the high notes and the low notes.

He moves us through a profound exploration with self, with God, and with music. Together, we share in the human phenomena that unfolds when we face the inner & outer conflict that comes with learning how to embrace our gifts and be our truest self.

As you listen, think about how you see yourself in Kendall’s story. 

Trigger Warnings: racism, prejudice, bias

Emotional Themes: self-discovery, inner conflict, prayer, soul searching

STORYTELLER BIO:

Kendall Ramseur is a cellist, composer, and recording artist, who embraces the healing power of music to touch the soul. With honors that include performing for Maya Angelou's 80th birthday in her private residence, performing as the principal cellist in the Grammy Award Orchestra, being a founding member of 'Sons of Serendip,' and competing as a finalist in America’s Got Talent, Kendall continues to embrace his purpose as a messenger of music's medicine. Links to his music are available below. We hope you join us in listening.

SHOW NOTES:

KendallRamseur.com

What is something that you've wanted to talk about, but for whatever reason convinced yourself not to?

As SUPERHUMANS returns, we wanted to introduce you to our friend Dee. Dee’s story reminds us of the pain that exists when something important goes un-talked about for too long. We all have that story that hasn’t been told but wants to get out. In today’s episode, we’re celebrating the healing that happens when you break your own silence and allow your story to serve as medicine — that’s what being SUPERHUMAN is all about. 

As you listen, invite yourself to think about how you see yourself in Dee’s story

Trigger Warnings: violence, murder, death

Emotional Themes: sibling-hood, loss, family, grief, survival’s guilt, coping, peace

STORYTELLER BIO:

Dee Fretwell leaves an impact in places waiting for change. She has a unique eye for opportunity, and in that, finds way to cultivate shifts—be it through operations, strategic planning, executive coaching or any of her other incredibly needle-moving abilities. Combined with her heart, hope, and belief in what’s possible for future generations Dee can’t help but be a force of nature who naturally shifts chaos into positive change. We’re honored to highlight her power here with SUPERHUMANS.

SHOW NOTES:

What happens when we give ourselves a new start... an opportunity to begin again... a rebirth...

We're asking ourselves these questions as we embark on a new season of SUPERHUMANS—the award-winning audio docu-series that believes, sometimes, Story is the best form of medicine.

You'll also hear us announce something special in this trailer episode, something that we hope gives you the gift of time with yourself.

As you listen, you'll be invited into a space that reminds us all of the importance of being in tune with our inner worlds as much as we are in tune with one another.

When have you felt like an outsider? And when have you felt like you truly belonged?

Today’s SUPERHUMAN storyteller, Raj Aggarwal, reveals to us our shared need for belonging. And how, if we’re outcasted or made to feel “other,” it can impact the course of our life. Raj shares how he initially found an unexpected sense of connection amongst a tribe of addicts. However, after a spiritual journey, he ultimately discovers his true addiction is in being in service to others.

Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Raj’s story.

Then share.

Trigger Warnings: addiction, racial disparity, social alienation, isolation

Emotional Themes: belonging, honesty, identity, friendship, tribalism, self-love, hope, gratitude, positivity, determination, persistence, resilience, ambition, uncertainty, coping, shame, adapting, support, fear, anger, rejection, discovery, curiosity

SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Help is available 24 hours a day.

STORYTELLER BIO:

Raj Aggarwal lives his life looking through the lens of equity. In 1999, Raj founded Provoc, a certified B-Corporation that envisions a world where every progressive organization achieves its mission. Over twenty years of experience as a communications and technology strategist, he has worked with more than 400 nonprofits and socially responsible businesses on a variety of projects including internal and external branding, marketing and customer engagement. Raj keeps Provoc rooted in empathy-driven work by forging partnerships with values-aligned, visionary leaders and has led workshops and talks at dozens of national conferences. He serves on the boards of Think Local First, DC and Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation, and shares his story with the knowing that vulnerability opens up space for safety, trust and true human connection.

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