In this powerful episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters speaks with Adriene Caldwell, author of Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, about her harrowing journey through childhood trauma, foster care failures, and the long road toward healing and hope. Adriene shares her lived experience surviving severe abuse, including childhood rape, sexual assault, and the dehumanizing treatment she endured in therapeutic foster care under an abusive foster parent she refers to as “TBFH.” Adriene exposes the systemic failures of CPS and foster care, including the lack of counseling, life skills training, and emotional support for children who have already endured significant trauma. She highlights the reality of underpaid, burned out caseworkers, the dangers of for profit foster care contractors, and the devastating outcomes many foster youth face: • Fewer than 3% use tuition waivers for college or vocational training • Roughly 1 in 5 prisoners spent time in foster care • 7 in 10 females in the system become mothers by age 21 Despite the darkness, Adriene’s story is ultimately one of resilience and transformation. She describes how a congressional scholarship that sent her to Germany for a year—and a supportive host family—became the turning point that changed her life. Through writing, advocacy, and her book Unbroken, she now offers her story to help others feel seen, validated, and hopeful. Listeners will hear: • The truth about therapeutic foster care • How poverty, class shock, and group homes shape identity • Why reform must address funding, oversight, and accountability • How one opportunity can rewrite a life • Where to find Adriene’s book and connect with her mission Keywords: Adriene Caldwell, Unbroken book, foster care failures, CPS reform, therapeutic foster care, childhood trauma, survival story, foster youth outcomes, abuse recovery, resilience, hope after trauma, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters. https://www.UnbrokenCaldwell.com

Adriene Caldwell Foster Care Trauma to Unbroken Hope

In this inspiring episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters speaks with Craig Alsup, full‑time missionary and global advocate with Manna Worldwide, a Fort Worth–based nonprofit serving children and families in nearly 50 countries. Craig shares how an around‑the‑world trip in 2008 exposed him and his wife to overwhelming physical and spiritual poverty, trafficking, hunger, and brokenness—an experience that reshaped their lives and ultimately led them to leave careers in therapy and public health to serve full time with Manna beginning in 2015. Craig explains the origins of Manna Worldwide, which began in the Philippines feeding children and strengthening local churches through holistic, community‑driven programs. Today, Manna operates roughly 300 projects, including nutrition centers, schools, orphanages, medical clinics, anti‑trafficking initiatives, and church‑planting partnerships, serving around 20,000 children and families every day. He shares a powerful story from Nepal about a young girl whose life was transformed through sponsorship, education, nutrition, and the hope of the gospel—illustrating how long‑term relationships and local leadership create lasting change. Craig also discusses the importance of gratitude, the global realities of poverty, and the call of Acts 1:8 to serve both locally and globally. Listeners will learn: How Manna Worldwide feeds kids and plants churches Why missions matter in today’s world The impact of holistic care on families and communities How to join mission trips, sponsor children, or partner financially Craig’s personal journey of calling, faith, and obedience Craig closes with a heartfelt challenge to step into generosity, service, and global compassion. He provides ways to connect, give, and get involved in Manna’s mission to bring hope to the nations. Keywords: Craig Alsup, Manna Worldwide, feeding kids, planting churches, global missions, poverty relief, anti‑trafficking, nutrition centers, orphanages, Acts 1:8, mission trips, nonprofit partnerships, faith‑based missions, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters. 00:00 Dead America Intro 01:03 Meet Craig Alsup 02:08 Called to Missions 04:32 Leap of Faith Support 06:27 Why Manna Worldwide 09:08 Lives Changed Nepal 15:01 Poverty and Gratitude 20:32 Acts 1 8 Mission 25:48 What Manna Does 30:25 Get Involved Trips 34:47 Final Challenge Thanks 39:18 Closing Poetic Outro #CraigAlsup #MannaWorldwide #DeadAmericaPodcast #EdWatters #GlobalMissions #FaithInAction #FeedingKids #PlantingChurches #HopeForTheNations #missionwork #SupportKids #ChildSponsorship #OrphanCare #EducationForAll #HopeForChildren #FamilyEmpowerment https://www.mannaworldwide.com Social media links / craig.alsup55 / mannaworldwide Dead America Podcast — Real Change, Real Hope The Dead America Podcast brings courageous conversations and practical solutions to the issues that matter most. We spotlight survivors, experts, and advocates working to stop child grooming, end sex and human trafficking, overcome addiction, heal from abuse, reduce gang violence, and protect vulnerable children. Each episode delivers honest storytelling, actionable guidance, and resources to empower listeners and inspire meaningful reform. What to expect Thoughtful interviews, survivor perspectives, expert analysis, and practical steps you can take to help protect families and communities. We’re moving to a more structured format focused on high-impact topics so your message reaches people who need to hear it. Featured topics Stopping pedophilia and child grooming; preventing sex and human trafficking; addiction recovery (drugs, sex, porn, food, gambling); gang violence and cartel impact; emotional triggers and healing; effective communication; recovery after sexual, emotional, and physical abuse; protecting children from long-term trauma related to gender-affirming care; relationship skills; and renewing core American prin

Craig Alsup Feeding Kids and Planting Churches Worldwide

In this powerful episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with Tom Kubiniec, President and CEO of Secure It Tactical, to explore an extraordinary journey of reinvention, innovation, and fearless problem solving. Tom’s story begins as a heavy metal guitarist profiled by Guitar Player Magazine in 1984, before chronic tendonitis forced him to walk away from music and rebuild his life from the ground up. What followed was an unlikely path into computer supply sales, hospital laptop security, and eventually a phone call from the FBI asking if he could store an “MP5”—which Tom initially thought was a laptop model. That moment launched him into the world of military weapon storage, despite having no firearms background at the time. By boldly claiming expertise where none existed, Tom spent 18 months surveying every Special Forces armory in America, documenting failures, and becoming the authority he said he was. This episode dives deep into the creation of the patented Cradle Grid system, a revolutionary design using one moving part to replace outdated bracket systems with 88–230 components. Tom also exposes hard truths about gun safe fire ratings, decentralized storage strategies, high stress access failures, and why most safes can be breached in seconds. Listeners will gain insight into: • How innovation is born from questioning everything • Why decentralized weapon storage offers tactical advantages • The myth of fire rated gun safes • Designing systems for fight or flight conditions • Building a company without a college degree or military service • Facing fear through land speed racing and extreme climbing This episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, engineering innovation, and resilience, showing how curiosity, courage, and relentless learning can redefine an entire industry. Keywords: Tom Kubiniec, Secure It Tactical, military weapon storage, Cradle Grid system, gun safe myths, decentralized storage, Special Forces armory, SEAL teams, firearms storage innovation, entrepreneurship, Inc Magazine fastest growing companies, land speed racing, overcoming tendonitis, Ed Watters, Dead America Podcast. 0:57 - From guitar player to CEO—how chronic tendonitis ended a music career and started a business odyssey 2:15 - The telemarketing grind and building the first company in a Panorama City apartment 5:12 - Creating taperac.com in the late 90s and becoming a major player in hospital laptop security 6:45 - "Can you store an MP5?"—The FBI call that changed everything 8:47 - Walking into Fort Bragg with zero military experience to pitch Special Forces Command 10:15 - "I'm considered the leading authority"—claiming expertise that didn't exist yet 12:27 - Training with the best shooters in America after never owning a gun until 2008 16:14 - Why decentralized storage beats one big safe—thieves spend 9 minutes in your house 17:19 - The master bedroom is the LEAST secure room in your home 23:26 - Why lightweight modular safes make more sense than 1800-pound monsters 23:39 - Fire ratings are fake—the biggest scam in the gun safe industry 31:36 - Ammunition storage—why putting ammo in sealed safes creates pipe bombs 36:08 - If your ammo's been in a fire, throw it away—ballistics change and barrels can blow 37:16 - The Cradle Grid system—Home Depot development and one moving part 40:27 - "Question everything, build better solutions, never settle for good enough" 43:51 - Land speed racing at Bonneville—hitting 172 mph in a 750cc car and going for 220 49:59 - "At 172, my helmet was pinned to the roll cage from vibration—I couldn't read the dash" 52:26 - The greatest days of your life are when you work through your fears 55:15 - Ice climbing Mount Athabasca—the voice that said "it's worth it" at 2,000 feet 1:01:48 - No college degree required at Secure It—military experience beats a master's degree 1:06:52 - Fail fast—"Nobody screws up more stuff than I do in this company" 1:08:40 - Buildi

Tom Kubiniec - From Guitarist to Military Storage Innovator

In this transformative episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with relationship coach Bryan Power to explore how Integrated Attachment Theory can heal broken relationships and create deeper emotional connection. Bryan shares his powerful personal journey—overcoming past trauma, navigating relationship struggles, and ultimately transforming his marriage through the principles of attachment theory. This conversation dives into the core elements of Integrated Attachment Theory, including understanding core wounds, identifying emotional needs, and recognizing how attachment styles shape behaviors in relationships. Bryan explains how emotional triggers develop, why communication breaks down, and how couples can rebuild trust through self-awareness and intentional action. Listeners will gain practical insights into: • Understanding attachment styles and emotional patterns • Identifying core wounds that influence relationship dynamics • Managing emotions with emotional intelligence • Setting healthy boundaries without creating distance • Improving communication and repairing disconnection • Navigating conflict with compassion and clarity • The importance of counseling, support systems, and personal growth Bryan also highlights the six core elements of relationship coaching and offers guidance for anyone seeking healthier connections—with partners, family, or themselves. His message is one of hope, resilience, and the belief that healing begins with self-reflection and ownership. Whether you’re working to strengthen your marriage, heal from past trauma, or understand your emotional patterns, this episode provides actionable tools and heartfelt wisdom to support your journey. Keywords: Bryan Power, Integrated Attachment Theory, attachment styles, relationship coaching, healing relationships, emotional intelligence, core wounds, communication skills, healthy boundaries, conflict resolution, personal growth, trauma healing, marriage transformation, self-reflection, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters. 00:00 Introduction: Awakening Hearts 00:45 Meet Bryan Power: Relationship Coach 01:10 Bryan's Personal Journey 01:57 The Turning Point: Integrated Attachment Theory 02:35 Ed's Story: A Parallel Journey 04:14 The Importance of Learning and Growth 09:25 Understanding Attachment Styles 12:21 Core Elements of Integrated Attachment Theory 12:54 Emotional Intelligence and Boundaries 17:03 The Power of Communication 21:53 Taking the First Step: Personal Growth 25:56 Self-Reflection and Ownership in Relationships 26:41 The Turning Point: Seeking Counseling 28:26 Understanding Differences: Men and Women 30:12 Attachment Styles and Emotional Triggers 32:29 Effective Communication and Boundaries 34:13 Guiding People to Self-Improvement 35:54 The Six Core Elements of Relationship Coaching 40:19 Finding the Right Support System 43:42 A Message of Hope and Resilience 46:47 Conclusion and Contact Information 49:07 Inspirational Closing Poem Social media links Website - www.myrelationshipfail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/myrelationshipfail/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@myrelationshipfail LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwpower/ #BryanPower #IntegratedAttachmentTheory #AttachmentStyles #RelationshipHealing #EmotionalIntelligence #HealthyBoundaries #CommunicationSkills #RelationshipCoaching #DeadAmericaPodcast #EdWatters #CoreWounds #PersonalGrowthJourney #HealingRelationships #TraumaRecovery #SelfAwareness

Bryan Power - Healing Relationships with Attachment Theory

In this empowering episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with Jacquie Elliot—certified life, relationship, and spiritual coach—to explore her groundbreaking system for overcoming negative self talk, known as Abusive Brain Chatter (ABC). Jacquie opens up about her own journey through emotional abuse, self doubt, and the relentless inner critic that once controlled her life. Her transformation became the foundation for her upcoming book, The Silent Bully: A Journey from Abusive Brain Chatter to Self Love, releasing this November. Jacquie breaks down the ABC method—Awareness, Belief, and Challenge—a powerful framework designed to help individuals recognize harmful inner dialogue, understand the core beliefs driving it, and challenge those patterns with compassion and truth. Through heartfelt storytelling and practical guidance, she shows how anyone can shift from self judgment to self love. Listeners will gain insight into: • What Abusive Brain Chatter is and how it forms • How negative self talk fuels unhealthy behaviors and emotional pain • The ABC method for transforming inner dialogue • Jacquie’s personal journey from self criticism to empowerment • Practical steps for healing, boundary setting, and living authentically • How to embrace self worth and silence the inner bully This episode is a must listen for anyone struggling with self doubt, emotional wounds, or the weight of an overactive inner critic. Jacquie’s wisdom offers a path toward peace, confidence, and genuine self love. Her message is clear: you are enough, just as you are. Keywords: Jacquie Elliot, Abusive Brain Chatter, ABC method, The Silent Bully, self love, negative self talk, emotional healing, inner critic, life coach, spiritual coach, relationship coach, personal transformation, self worth, boundary setting, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters. 00:00 Introduction: Awakening Hearts 00:45 Meet Jacquie Elliot: Life Coach and Author 02:52 Understanding Abusive Brain Chatter 06:08 The ABCs of Overcoming Negative Self-Talk 11:24 Jacquie's Personal Journey and Transformation 18:03 Practical Steps to Self-Love and Healing 24:33 Living Authentically and Setting Boundaries 42:21 Final Thoughts and Resources 44:27 Empowering Outro: You Are Enough Website https://healingabc.com Social media links https://linktr.ee/jacquieelliott

Jacquie Elliot Silence Abusive Brain Chatter

In this powerful episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with Jessica Morris—author, spiritual director, and survivor—to explore her extraordinary journey from addiction and turmoil to faith, healing, and spiritual rebirth. Jessica’s story begins with a painful childhood shaped by the chaos of growing up as the daughter of an alcoholic minister. Her early years were marked by confusion, anger, and a deep struggle to understand God’s love in the midst of suffering. Through raw honesty and heartfelt storytelling, Jessica shares how her battles with addiction forced her to confront not only her past but also her beliefs about God, purpose, and identity. Writing became her refuge, a place where she could process her pain and begin to rediscover her voice. A pivotal encounter with Jesus transformed everything, leading Jessica into a profound spiritual awakening that reshaped her life. She opens up about the moment she surrendered, the path of recovery that followed, and the redemption she found through faith, community, and inner work. Listeners will gain insight into: • The impact of childhood trauma and spiritual confusion • How addiction can become a catalyst for transformation • The healing power of writing and self-reflection • Jessica’s encounter with Jesus and her spiritual rebirth • The role of faith, surrender, and purpose in long-term recovery • Her mission to guide others as a spiritual director Jessica’s message is one of hope, courage, and divine guidance. Her journey reminds us that healing is possible, purpose can rise from pain, and spiritual awakening often begins in the darkest places. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, faith-based healing, or a deeper understanding of spiritual transformation. Website https://jessicalmorris.com/ Social media links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-l-morris-39201879/ FB: Higher Powered - Jessica L. Morris IG & Threads: @jessica.l.morris TikTok: @missdaisylove Keywords: Jessica Morris, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters, spiritual awakening, addiction recovery, childhood trauma, alcoholic minister, faith healing, spiritual director, redemption, writing for healing, Jesus encounter, spiritual rebirth, overcoming addiction, purpose and faith.

Jessica Morris From Addiction to Spiritual Awakening

Join us in this heartfelt episode as we speak with Ryan Reichert, owner of Our Protector Development, host of the podcast 'Our Healer, Our Protector,' and author of the 'Protector Development' book series. Ryan shares his incredible journey from growing up in small-town North Dakota, serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, battling addiction, to becoming a healer and protector through his various ventures. Discover how faith, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of improvement have shaped his life and mission to help others. This inspiring conversation delves into the highs and lows of leadership, personal recovery, and the importance of kindness and accountability in creating meaningful change. 00:00 Introduction: Awakening Hearts 00:46 Meet Ryan Reichert: A Journey of Service and Entrepreneurship 02:34 Ryan's Early Life and Military Career 04:54 Transition to Civilian Life and Entrepreneurship 08:52 Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Faith 14:06 The Power of Accountability and Community Service 17:33 Writing and Spiritual Practices 23:51 Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth 29:47 Podcasting and Future Directions 30:13 Navigating Post-Divorce Life 30:54 Reflections on Faith and Leadership 32:17 Inspiring Stories of Resilience 33:27 The Power of Gratitude and Discipline 37:19 Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Change 40:09 The Journey of Self-Improvement 41:24 The Importance of Honesty and Emotional Intelligence 48:43 The Value of Reading and Continuous Learning 55:42 Final Thoughts and Call to Action 57:56 A Poetic Tribute to Ryan's Journey Social Media: Instagram: @armyrt1978, Facebook: @RyanT.Reichert, LinkedIn: @RyanReichert78, X: @RyanTReichert, TikTok: @armyrt1978, YouTube Channel: @OurHealerOurProtector Website: www.OurProtectorDevelopment.com

From Battlefield to Boardroom - A Journey of Faith and Redemption

In this compelling episode, we explore the unorthodox journey of Dr. Sheldon Greaves, author of 'The Gorrilla Scholar's Handbook'. Dr. Greaves discusses his unconventional career path, from earning a PhD in Ancient Near Eastern Studies to founding a university and developing a space-lift capable rocket. He shares his passion for independent learning, the importance of elite thinkers in society, and offers practical tips for research outside traditional academia. Touching on the state of public education, the impact of technology on learning, and the value of honest dialogue, this discussion emphasizes the need to foster critical thinking and independent scholarship in today's challenging times. 00:00 Introduction: Awakening Hearts and Breaking Chains 00:45 Meet Dr. Sheldon Greaves: A Journey of Unconventional Scholarship 03:08 The Inspiration Behind The Gorrilla Scholars Handbook 08:14 The Importance of Reading and Physical Books 16:17 Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Education 28:26 The Role of Honest Dialogue in Bridging Divides 42:52 Accessing Reliable Information in a Misinformed World 53:51 Conclusion: The Joy of Learning and Final Thoughts Website https://guerrillascholar.substack.com/ Social media links https://www.facebook.com/sheldon.greaves/ https://guerrillascholar.substack.com https://bsky.app/profile/guerrillascholar.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheldongreaves/

 Reviving Independent Scholarship - A Conversation with Dr. Sheldon Greaves

In this enlightening episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with Dr. Njideka Olatunde, a renowned naturopathic practitioner specializing in pain relief through touchology, reflexology, and holistic healing. Dr. Olatunde shares her powerful insights into the deep connection between stress and pain, explaining how understanding this relationship can unlock profound healing for individuals and communities. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Olatunde breaks down her unique therapeutic approach, which blends touch-based healing, listening, and comprehensive care plans that may include chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments. She emphasizes that healing is not just physical—it is emotional, relational, and deeply connected to how we interact with ourselves and others. Listeners will learn about the science and spirit behind touchology, the importance of positive human connection, and how simple supportive interactions can reduce stress and promote well being. Dr. Olatunde also highlights the urgent need to empower young people who are struggling with stress, offering guidance on how touch, play, and emotional support can help them build resilience. This episode explores: • The link between stress, pain, and emotional health • How reflexology and touchology support natural healing • Holistic approaches including acupuncture and nutrition • The importance of play, connection, and letting go • How listening and collaboration strengthen healing relationships • Why empowering the next generation is essential for a healthier society Whether you're curious about natural remedies, seeking pain relief alternatives, or exploring holistic wellness, this conversation offers transformative insights into the power of touch and the future of healing. Keywords: Dr. Njideka Olatunde, reflexology, touchology, holistic healing, naturopathic practitioner, stress and pain, natural remedies, chiropractic care, acupuncture, dietary healing, emotional wellness, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters, youth stress support, healing through touch. 00:00 Introduction: Awakening Hearts 00:46 Meet Njideka Olatunde: Naturopathic Practitioner 02:46 Understanding Pain and Stress 04:34 The Power of Touchology 09:30 Holistic Healing Approaches 16:16 The Importance of Play and Letting Go 21:33 Touch and Connection in Relationships 29:29 Empowering the Next Generation 38:15 Healing Through Listening and Collaboration 41:31 Conclusion: Embracing Natural Remedies

Healing Through Touch Reflexology with Dr. Olatunde

In this inspiring episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters speaks with Michelle Steiner, a paraeducator from Pennsylvania, who shares her remarkable journey of overcoming learning disabilities to achieve her dream of earning a bachelor’s degree and building a fulfilling career. Michelle’s story is a testament to perseverance, self-advocacy, and the power of communication skills in navigating life’s challenges. Despite societal misconceptions about disabilities, she proves that determination and resilience can lead to success. Through personal experiences, Michelle highlights the importance of advocating for oneself, embracing authenticity, and finding beauty and purpose in life’s struggles. Listeners will gain valuable insights into: The role of a paraeducator in supporting students with diverse needs Challenges and triumphs in education while living with a disability Practical advice on self-advocacy and building self-worth How communication skills foster empowerment and resilience Michelle’s mission to encourage, educate, and inspire both people with and without disabilities Beyond her professional work, Michelle shares her aspirations of expanding her blog, photography, and possibly writing a book to further her mission of empowerment. Her journey demonstrates that disabilities do not define limitations—they can become the foundation for purpose and inspiration. This episode is a must-watch for educators, advocates, and anyone seeking motivation to overcome obstacles and embrace their true potential. Michelle Steiner’s voice is one of hope, resilience, and empowerment. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 00:45 Meet Michelle Steiner 01:24 Understanding the Role of a Paraeducator 02:12 Challenges and Triumphs in Education 06:11 Navigating the Workforce with a Disability 13:24 Advocacy and Self-Worth 19:15 Michelle's Mission and Future Aspirations 28:54 Conclusion and Final Reflections 30:06 Empowering Closing song #misconceptions #communication Keywords included: Michelle Steiner, Dead America Podcast, Ed Watters, overcoming disabilities, learning disabilities, paraeducator, self-advocacy, communication skills, resilience, empowerment, disability awareness, education challenges, personal growth, finding purpose, disability misconceptions, inspiration, advocacy. / michelle.steiner.493966 / steiner7250

Michelle Steiner Overcoming Disabilities and Finding Purpose

Dead America Podcast We talk about people. We love finding new ways to learn and grow every day. Your story is important and we want to tell it on our next podcast. Find all of our great Podcasts on Our website: Dead America https://www.deadamerica.website Social media: We are mainly on Twitter, So lovers find us @freecircle3 We are STRONGER as ONE! Support this podcast: And all of our great Podcasts! Find us on Facebook @deadamerica This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Ed Watters

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