**This episode of Adventures in Adversity is sponsored by DIVINI, a honey-based kombucha tea -- Use code Breanne10 at checkout for a discount!**

Some stories don’t just inspire you — they shake something awake. This week, Dr. Joy Kong joins me for a conversation that’s part science, part soul, and all heart.

She’s a triple board-certified physician, stem-cell specialist, anti-aging powerhouse, founder of Chara Health, author, and podcast host.

But what really stands out is her journey — from growing up in China to chasing her dreams in America and changing the way we think about healing.

We talk about resilience, bridging traditional and modern medicine, and how curiosity might be the most powerful healing tool we have.

If you’ve ever hit a wall or wondered if your vision was too big, this episode is your reminder: keep digging, keep learning, and keep going.

Dr. Joy Kong – YouTube

Listen to or watch the Dr. Joy Kong Podcast

Buy her book on Amazon:

Tiger of Beijing: The Inspirational Memoir of a Fierce Regenerative Medicine Physician

Follow Dr. Joy on Instagram

Connect with Dr. Joy on Facebook

Dr. Kong founded and runs Chara Health

Feel Younger, Live Bolder - Experience the power of regenerative medicine and advanced aesthetics—personalized to renew your energy, elevate performance, and support long-term vitality.

****This episode of Adventures in Adversity is sponsored by DIVINI, a honey-based kombucha tea -- Use code Breanne10 at checkout for a discount!****

In this powerful episode, Steve and I candidly discuss the impact of alcohol on his relationships and emotional well-being, describing the deep emotional pain and turmoil he endured.

He reflects on moments of desperation where he felt completely lost, overwhelmed, and unable to articulate his desire to stop drinking.

Throughout the conversation, Steve, now 43 years old, shares how his addiction strained his relationships, often leaving him in tears and feeling powerless—like a “puddle” on the floor.

He highlights how addiction creates unhealthy relationship dynamics and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and self-awareness in the healing process.

Facing and accepting deep emotional truths, Steve shows that recovery is a journey through pain, vulnerability, and the rediscovery of one’s strength and self-understanding.

Steve hosts 2 podcasts:

1) Forged In Silence Podcast

A raw men's mental health podcast featuring personal stories, vulnerability, and the power of group connection. Each episode explores men's emotional well-being, relationships, growth, and the journey to healing in a world that often encourages silence. Listen in for open conversations about masculinity, trauma, support, and self-discovery.

Watch or listen to Forged in Silence on YouTube

Listen on Apple Podcasts

2) Through the Glass Recovery

A sobriety podcast where we make sobriety feel like something you want to do, not something you have to do. Connection, vulnerability, and thriving are at the heart of recovery. Join hosts Steve & Julie for real conversations that make sobriety feel rewarding and help you build a life so full there's no room left for alcohol.

Listen to stories, practical advice, and engaging discussions with the recovery community.

Explore episodes, free virtual support groups, and recovery resources

Follow ThroughtheGlassRecovery on Instagram

Connect on Facebook

****This episode of Adventures in Adversity is sponsored by DIVINI, a honey-based kombucha tea: https://livedivini.com/ -- Use code Breanne10 at checkout for a discount!****

Retired Police Officer & Gang Detective Manny Angulo shares his incredible story of turning adversity into purpose, from dropping out of high school to overcoming the challenges of police academy, patrol work, and detective life.

We dig into how becoming a parent during Manny’s training shaped his perspective and how experiences with PTSD and alcoholism led him to co-found ⁠P.I.S.T.L.E.⁠, a non-profit organization supporting police officers with trauma.

Follow P.I.S.T.L.E. on Instagram

He opens up about undercover work, family struggles, and the crucial role of gaming as a fundraising tool for mental health initiatives. At every step, Manny emphasizes the power of integrity, compassion, and community.

This episode feels especially close to me, not only because our conversation is powerful, but because Manny is the father of my podcast producer, Julian—and my producer was once my student when I taught middle school in 2006.

To the truly awesome Angulo family that has given so much to our communities through Manny's courage and your sacrifices, and to all retired and active police officers around the world protecting us in the face of adversity...we humbly thank you for your service!