Episodes

In this powerful and emotionally charged episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Michael W. Allison, MBA—U.S. Marine, Purple Heart recipient, award-winning keynote speaker, and best-selling author—to explore a remarkable life story shaped by trauma, transformation, and purpose. From a challenging immigrant childhood in Jamaica and Miami marked by poverty, bullying, and abuse, Michael shares his road to redemption through military service, leadership, and healing. ...

Matt Gilhooly, host of The Life Shift podcast, shares the story behind his own pivotal life shift—the sudden death of his mother when he was just eight years old. In a deeply moving conversation, Matt reflects on the fallout that followed, the perfectionism that took hold, and how it took him 20 years to finally face the grief he had buried. He opens up about processing trauma in therapy, learning to live intentionally, and the radically different way he was able to say goodbye to his grandmothe...

Katherine Mitchell’s 84-year journey defies the limits of a single identity. Born during WWII in Hungary, she survived war, communism, and displacement before building a multifaceted life in the U.S. As a nationally ranked gymnast turned refugee, talent agent turned screenwriter, single mother turned novelist, Katherine’s story is a testament to grit, adaptability, and lifelong learning. In this heartfelt and often humorous conversation, she opens up about the moments that shaped her—from math l...

Robert Kesten, Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, shares a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation that spans civil rights, global activism, the importance of preserving history, and his lifelong commitment to justice. From organizing a fundraising event as a child in response to Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination to producing a Holocaust documentary and leading initiatives in human rights education, Robert’s journey reflects the intersection of compassion,...

After surviving childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, Shakina Rush chose healing—and then built a movement. In this powerful in-person conversation, recorded in Philadelphia after her nonprofit’s second annual housing fair, Shakina shares how her lived experiences shaped She Is You, an organization that supports individuals impacted by abuse through housing, mental health, scholarships, and more. Her story is one of radical forgiveness, unshakable faith, and personal res...

When Richard Hsung promised his dying mother he’d finish her memoir, he didn’t yet understand the weight of that vow—or the decade-long journey it would set in motion. In this episode, Richard shares his deeply personal path of honoring his mother’s extraordinary life as an adopted child of American missionaries in pre-Communist China, a refugee from revolution, and a resilient physician under Mao. Together, we explore identity, inheritance, immigration, and what it means to find yourself betwee...

Dr. Katrina Nguyen was just 14 months old when her family fled Vietnam by boat during the Fall of Saigon, a journey marked by near-death experiences and unimaginable courage. Now a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, bestselling author, and founder of the nonprofit Faithful-2-Fitness, she channels that legacy of resilience into helping families fight childhood obesity and build healthier futures. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nguyen shares her refugee story, her path to medicine, ...

In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Ralph Velasco, a seasoned travel photographer and founder of small group travel experiences. Raised in suburban Chicago, Ralph takes us through his winding career path—from restaurants and real estate to his true calling behind the camera and on the road. We explore how travel can be a powerful vehicle for connection and self-discovery, and how storytelling brings those experiences to life. Whether you're a budding traveler or someone navigating life's turning points, this conversation offers a compelling look at resilience, reinvention, and the beauty of the journey.

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In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my grandmother—my last living grandparent—to capture her incredible journey through life. From her Italian immigrant roots in coal-mining Pennsylvania to her years as a talented young musician and her marriage to my grandfather, a brilliant physicist and Holocaust survivor, this conversation uncovers a century’s worth of history, resilience, and love. These are the kinds of stories that often go untold—but deserve to be remembered.

After years of identifying solely as a teacher, Kim faced an identity crisis when burnout forced her to leave the profession. What followed was a deeply personal journey through therapy, self-discovery, and alternative healing modalities. In this episode, she shares the emotional rollercoaster of redefining herself, uncovering childhood trauma, and eventually finding relief through holistic practices like Reiki, yoga, meditation, and energy healing. Now a certified holistic practitioner, Kim helps others navigate their own healing journeys. She joins host Jennifer Peterkin to discuss the reality of burnout, the limitations of traditional therapy, and the power of exploring alternative healing methods.

Two years ago, The Human Experience went live—a deeply personal and transformative journey of storytelling, connection, and vulnerability. Host Jennifer Peterkin reflects on what she has learned, the intentionality behind in-person interviews, and why proximity and presence matter in capturing human stories. She also shares an important update about the future of the podcast and what it means to "hold things loosely" when life demands change. Finally, an important announcement: for the foreseeable future, new guest interviews will now be released every other week instead of weekly. This shift allows Jennifer to continue creating meaningful conversations while ensuring the podcast remains a labor of love rather than obligation.

What if life’s coincidences weren’t random, but signs guiding you toward your true purpose? In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer sits down with Sophia, whose remarkable journey has taken her from working with Buckminster Fuller in architecture to running a couture fashion business, and ultimately helping survivors of human trafficking as a therapist. Sophia shares the miraculous moments that shaped her path, the science of synchronicity, and why paying attention to divine nudges can lead to unexpected yet deeply fulfilling opportunities. She also discusses how her spiritual awakening, as detailed in her books The Divine Language of Coincidence and Consciousness Beyond Death, has attracted the attention of scientists studying after-death communication. If you’ve ever questioned whether the universe is sending you signs, this conversation will inspire you to trust the process, take action, and step into the life you were meant to live.

In this episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Ethan Poetic, a self-published author, keynote speaker, and survivor of incredible adversity. Ethan shares his journey of growing up in a single-parent household, taking on responsibilities beyond his years, and surviving a near-fatal car accident that left him with a 99% chance of death. Through resilience, self-reflection, and a commitment to changing his narrative, Ethan has turned his pain into purpose—writing a book, mentoring young people, and advocating for mental health. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance and the impact of choosing to grow despite life's challenges. 📍 This episode was recorded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

**Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about drug use, abuse, and neglect. Please proceed with care.** Two years after his first appearance on the podcast, Joe returns to share the incredible and often painful journey of adopting his niece and nephew. In this raw and honest conversation, he details the struggles of navigating a deeply flawed foster care system, the emotional toll of parenting children with trauma, and the ongoing challenges of healing as a family. From dealing with corrupt social workers to searching for the children's fugitive parents, Joe takes us inside the reality of stepping up when no one else would. Now, with the adoption finalized, he and his wife continue to work through behavioral struggles, the lack of mental health resources, and the weight of carrying a story that is far from over. Despite everything, they remain committed to giving these kids a future filled with safety, stability, and love. 📍This episode was recorded in Westchester, Penn…

Next week, we’ll be bringing Joe, a former guest, back to the podcast to continue sharing more of his story. In the meantime, please enjoy listening to his first appearance on The Human Experience Podcast. **Content Warning: In this episode we discuss domestic violence, suicide, drug addiction, and childhood abuse. Please proceed with care.**

In this deeply moving episode of The Human Experience with host Jennifer Peterkin, Laurel opens up about her incredible life story filled with resilience, heartbreak, and humor. From being placed in foster care at just two years old, to experiencing multiple homes, adoption, and reconnecting with her sister and extended family, Laurel’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and healing. She reflects on the pivotal moments in her life, the emotional aftermath of her childhood trauma, and how she found herself through counseling, self-awareness, and the pursuit of authenticity. Laurel also shares how her experiences have shaped her as a mother, her thoughts on adoption, and the complexities of overcoming societal stigmas around trauma and divorce. This conversation is raw, heartfelt, and filled with moments of profound insight. 📍This episode was recorded in Glenmoore, Pennsylvania

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with John Clifford, founder of the Greenhouse Project in Chester, Pennsylvania. John shares his incredible journey from addiction and incarceration to living out his faith through radical community-building. He unpacks the mission behind the Greenhouse Project, a ministry rooted in transforming lives by building relationships and fostering spiritual growth within his community. John discusses how his past shaped his calling, the challenges of ministering in an underserved area, and the profound importance of reconciliation, both with others and within oneself. This episode is an uplifting reminder of the power of love, compassion, and living intentionally for the greater good. 📍This episode was recorded in Pennsylvania

In this episode of The Human Experience, we sit down with Jeny, a Romanian native and social worker, to explore her extraordinary story. Jeny shares her experiences growing up under the communist regime in Romania, witnessing the 1989 revolution, and her current work with children in need through Firm Foundations Romania (FFR). Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of Romania’s history, resilience, and transformation over the past few decades.

In this heartwarming and deeply insightful episode of The Human Experience, Jennfier sits down with Markella, a psychologist specializing in the identity shifts of parenthood, to explore the evolving nature of relationships, self-discovery, and the challenges of balancing societal expectations with personal growth. From the breathtaking setting of Athens to the universal struggles of navigating life’s changes, this conversation touches on themes of motherhood, cultural identity, and embracing transformation. 📍This episode was recorded in Athens, Greece

Welcome to a special recap episode of The Human Experience Podcast! In this episode, host Jennifer Peterkin takes us on a journey through some of the most compelling and impactful moments from past conversations. Featuring highlights from some incredible guest interviews, Jennifer weaves these moments together with her own insights, reflecting on recurring themes and setting the stage for exciting conversations to come.

**December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.** In this deeply moving and inspirational episode of The Human Experience, Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Anne Byler, the founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels. Anne opens up about her journey through unimaginable trauma, spiritual confusion, and eventual redemption. With raw honesty, she shares her story of profound loss, spiritual abuse, and the path to creating a global brand out of a desire to support her family and community. 📍This episode was recorded in Texas

**December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.** In this inspiring episode of The Human Experience podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Susan, who shares an incredible story rooted in courage, resilience, and the enduring power of love. This episode reflects on Susan’s father’s harrowing experience as a World War II pilot and the profound legacy he left behind. Through their conversation, Jennifer and Susan explore themes of survival, generational impact, and the transformative power of storytelling to preserve memories and values for future generations. 📍This episode was recorded near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

**December will be a time of rest and reflection for The Human Experience Podcast. During the next few weeks, Jennifer will be releasing some powerful conversations from previous guests as replay episodes to remember some incredible stories and share with new listeners.** Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, murder, and suicide. In this episode of The Human Experience podcast, host Jennifer Peterkin sits down with Shelly, an author, activist, and survivor who shares her harrowing life story and the lessons she's learned along the way. Shelly's memoir, Beautiful Ashes, serves as the centerpiece of their conversation, shedding light on her incredible journey through loss, trauma, and ultimately resilience.