Susan Gold—a woman whose journey from a tumultuous childhood to becoming a transformational coach is nothing short of inspiring. This video edition brings a fresh perspective to an episode that resonates deeply with the show’s core themes: breaking generational cycles, reclaiming authenticity, and embracing self-transformation. Susan shares her raw and powerful story of growing up in a dysfunctional home, navigating the entertainment industry, confronting personal trauma, and ultimately stepping...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep 168•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay welcomes Bootsy Greenwood, a multi-talented entrepreneur, personal development coach, and creator of the Blue Collar Mystic persona and podcast. Bootsy shares his down-to-earth approach to spirituality, humor, and self-discovery, bridging the gap between the mystical and the relatable. This episode is packed with humor, insight, and actionable advice for anyone seeking to align with their authentic self. 🌟 Jay and Bootsy kick things off with l...
Feb 19, 2025•45 min•Ep 167•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jay sits down with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets to explore the transformative journey of overcoming personal adversity and reigniting creative passion. 🎙️ Join Jay and Dani as they delve deep into Dani’s inspiring story of resilience and artistic rebirth. From battling serious health challenges to navigating the evolving music industry, Dani shares his unique perspective on maintaining authenticity in a world obsessed with conformity. 🎸✨ Throughout the conversation, they d...
Jan 21, 2025•53 min•Ep 165•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jay speaks with Jessica Baladad, a six-year breast cancer survivor and the creator of Feel For Your Life—a groundbreaking app providing tools for breast self-exams, health tracking, and AI-based pathology interpretations. Key Points: 🎙 Jessica shares her inspiring journey of survival, advocacy, and innovation, discussing: ✅Why self-exams save lives and how to perform them 💡Navigating a broken healthcare system 🧠How AI is changing the way breast cancer is diagnosed 📚Her fight...
Jan 14, 2025•54 min•Ep 164•Transcript available on Metacast 🎙️ In this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast , Jay welcomes the multi-talented Zelda Khan Black for an insightful conversation about voice acting, mental health, and embracing authenticity in the entertainment industry. Zelda dives deep into her journey as a voice actor, author, and artist, sharing how she’s navigated adversity and found strength through self-expression and community support. 🌟 📚 Zelda opens up about her personal challenges, including recovering her voice after ...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep 163•Transcript available on Metacast In this electrifying episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast , Jay sits down with Chuck Duran, the mastermind behind Demos That Rock and the co-host of the acclaimed VO Buzz Weekly . Chuck’s expertise as a voice acting demo producer and his unforgettable journey as a musician with Rock Sugar provides an unparalleled lens into creativity, authenticity, and the power of perseverance. 🎙️✨ Chuck shares his insights on amplifying authenticity, why embracing who you are can lead to breakthroughs, and ...
Dec 08, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep 162•Transcript available on Metacast In this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast , host Jay Hicks sits down with the inspiring Hakeem Javaid to explore how personal growth, resilience, and the nature of time itself intersect. They dive deep into Hakeem’s transformative journey and his groundbreaking ideas about time as energy, self-limiting beliefs, and the lenses through which we view the world. Prepare for a mind-expanding conversation that challenges conventional wisdom while offering practical insights for your jour...
Dec 01, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep 161•Transcript available on Metacast In this transformative episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast , host Jay Hicks sits down with Crystal Cassidy, CEO and founder of SoulPod, a mobile app for spiritual wellness. Crystal’s remarkable journey blends the worlds of science and spirituality, offering a fresh perspective on how these realms intersect with over two decades of pharmaceutical experience and a deep connection to spiritual practices like Reiki, meditation, and martial arts, Crystal shares how science and spirituality complem...
Nov 22, 2024•52 min•Ep 160•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Austin Davis, a visionary in teenage behavioral health and addiction recovery with over 20 years of experience. Austin shares his journey from Dallas-Fort Worth to becoming a leader in adolescent treatment. Together, they explore the unique challenges of working with teens, the powerful impact of social media, and the importance of purpose in young lives. Austin reveals the innovative aspects of his treatment program, which empha...
Nov 15, 2024•47 min•Ep 159•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jay sits down with Steve Young, a multifaceted creative known for his lengthy career as a comedy writer on 'The David Letterman Show,' as well as a musician, filmmaker, and author. They delve into the technical hiccups that stall creative processes yet highlight how embracing small failures can lead to unexpected successes. Steve shares insights from his time in TV and recording, his songwriting journey, and the fascinating world of industrial musicals explored in his documentar...
Nov 09, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Ep 159•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay dives deep into the world of regenerative medicine and the healing potential of stem cell therapy . Joined by Dr. Eric Weiss , a specialist in regenerative medicine and founder of the North Florida Stem Cell Clinic , they explore the transformative advancements in stem cell research and its applications for treating various conditions, including autism , traumatic brain injuries (TBI) , Parkinson’s , and Alzheimer’s . Dr. Weiss shares his exper...
Oct 26, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep 157•Transcript available on Metacast In this engaging conversation, Jay from the Tragedy Academy is joined by TA alum Iden Crockett, a multimedia artist and first responder. Iden expresses her frustrations with artists' struggles with algorithms and trends on platforms like Instagram. She champions authentic representation over follower count and talks about the courage it takes to differentiate oneself in a society that doesn't reward individuality. Iden also shares her journey as a transgender person, the discovery of her dissoci...
Oct 15, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this insightful episode, Jay and Gary welcome Dr. Jisun Sunny Fisher, a.k.a. Dr. J, for a deep dive into the intricate layers of the human psyche. They embark on a thought-provoking journey, exploring the concept of authenticity, the narratives that shape our behaviors, and how we can master our internal scripts to live life with purpose. 🎙️ Key Takeaways: 🎭 Rediscovering one’s passion during periods of isolation, as Jay recounts his enlightenment experience during COVID-induced solitude. �...
Oct 15, 2024•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this thought-provoking episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, hosts Jay and Gary dive deep into the power of authenticity, personal growth, and the art of filmmaking with special guest Manny Bains. 🎬 Manny, a rising star from Toronto, shares his journey from the corporate world to becoming a film director, actor, author, and entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's passions and the transformative power of storytelling. 🌟 Join us as Manny Bains opens up about his fascinati...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Transcript available on Metacast "Detention" Warning: Brace yourself for offbeat humor, unexpected tangents, and unfiltered fun in our 'Detention' episodes. This isn't your typical Tragedy Academy fare – it's a lighthearted listen perfect for those searching for laughter. However, if you're seeking serious topics, look elsewhere. Listener discretion is advised. Title: Bonus Live & Uncut! Detention Episode: Unfiltered Conversations and Hilarious Escapades" Part II In Part 2 of this special "Detention" episode of The Tragedy ...
Oct 11, 2024•49 min•Transcript available on Metacast "Detention" Warning: Brace yourself for offbeat humor, unexpected tangents, and unfiltered fun in our 'Detention' episodes. This isn't your typical Tragedy Academy fare – it's a lighthearted listen perfect for those searching for laughter. However, if you're seeking serious topics, look elsewhere. Listener discretion is advised. In this special detention episode of The Tragedy Academy, Jay and his close friends Dre and Niki transport you to a realm where rules go out the window, and their raw, u...
Oct 11, 2024•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this compelling episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks has an in-depth conversation with Bruce W. Brackett. Together, they delve into Bruce's journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a beacon of positivity and creativity. This episode is a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of listening to one's inner light, even in the darkest of times. 🎙️ Today's episode is nothing short of inspirational. Bruce W. Brackett, known for his vibrant social media pres...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay welcomes Meg Calvin, a distinguished writing and marketing coach who guides authors through the deep spiritual work required to craft, market, and sell Amazon Best-Selling Books on Kindle, Paperback, and Audible. The hosts dive deep into the themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and the emotional hurdles of writing. Tune in to discover how sharing personal stories can transform both the author and the reader and learn practical tips for overco...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks welcomes Ann Swanson, a yoga therapist and author. They dive into the challenges of finding calm amidst chaos, with Ann sharing her journey with yoga and meditation. The conversation touches on these practices' physical and mental benefits, practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into everyday life, and the importance of self-care. Ann even provides a quick guided meditation to help listeners release tension. This episode emphas...
Oct 11, 2024•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks welcomes Chris Hunt, known as the Florida Bushman. This episode explores Chris's journey from living with a congenital heart defect and a stroke to becoming a source of laughter and positivity through his unique pranks and social media content. Chris shares his personal story, struggles with medical issues, and how humor has been a constant thread in connecting with people. They discuss mindfulness's impact, authenticity's power, and...
Oct 11, 2024•57 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this heartwarming and insightful episode, Jay interviews Aurelius Higgs, a coach focused on mental well-being and character development in children. They discuss the importance of establishing a solid sense of self-worth in preteens before societal pressures take over, the role of parents in nurturing their children's authentic selves, and the impact of social media on young minds. Aurelius emphasizes project-based living as a way for parents to bond with their children, support their develop...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this special video release episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast , Jay speaks with Dr. Samantha Harte, a physical therapist, author, performing artist, and podcast host. Dr. Harte shares her journey through addiction, recovery, and the profound transformation that led her to live a life rooted in joy and authenticity. 🎙️ Join Jay as he engages in a raw and powerful conversation with Dr. Samantha Harte, who opens up about her 15-year journey of recovery from addiction and the life-changing d...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay speaks with Hannah Spanke. Hannah is a somatic healer, relationship expert, and Tantra teacher who delves into human emotion and self-discovery. In this episode, she opens up about her healing journey, the importance of tackling the root of personal issues, and the transformative power of self-awareness. 🎙️ Join us as we dive deep into a compelling conversation with Hannah Spanke, who is not afraid to challenge societal norms and explore the t...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay Hicks engages in a profound conversation with Matt Dawson, founder of Dawson's Peak Foundation and a six-time world record holder in extreme adventure sports. The discussion delves into the significance of living purposefully, overcoming personal struggles, and the transformative power of authentic experiences. Dawson shares his journey, including a pivotal moment in Nepal that shifted his perspective on life. He emphasizes the responsibility t...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay Hicks dives into a deep and transformative conversation with Matt Dawson, founder of Dawson’s Peak Foundation and a six-time world record holder in extreme adventure sports. They explore living with purpose, overcoming personal struggles, and the impact of authentic life experiences. Matt shares pivotal moments from his adventures, including a life-altering experience in Nepal, and emphasizes the power of embracing responsibility, self-discover...
Oct 06, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with ER nurse Jennifer Johnson to explore the power of intuition in nursing. With 16 years of experience, Jennifer shares her personal and professional journey, from the challenges of working in the ER to the importance of trusting your gut instinct in high-pressure medical situations. They dive into the emotional toll on healthcare workers, the role of mental health, and Jennifer’s advocacy for compassion and self-care in the medical...
Sep 27, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with Dara McKinley, an expert in forgiveness, psychology, and spirituality, who shares her personal journey of overcoming deep emotional challenges. Dara explores how she discovered the transformative power of forgiveness and developed a process to heal from pain, anger, and resentment. Her insights provide valuable guidance on how anyone can learn to forgive and embrace self-love, making this episode a powerful conversatio...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Hannah Spanke, a somatic healer, relationship expert, and Tantra teacher, to explore the depths of personal transformation and healing. Hannah shares her compelling journey from a challenging childhood and time in the sex industry to discovering her true purpose in helping others heal from within. Through candid storytelling and powerful metaphors, she emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of trauma, embracing s...
Sep 04, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Shaun Hadsall, known as ”The Ripped Grandpa,” to explore his incredible journey from personal struggles, including addiction and a painful custody battle, to becoming a fitness expert specializing in hormone optimization for people over 40. Shaun shares his transformative ”three-step hormone reset” and discusses the power of mindset, authenticity, and sustainable habits in achieving a healthier, more fulfilling life at any age. T...
Aug 26, 2024•53 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay speaks with Dr. Samantha Hart, a physical therapist, author, performing artist, and podcast host. Dr. Hart shares her journey through addiction, recovery, and the profound transformation that led her to live a life rooted in joy and authenticity. 🎙️
Aug 23, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
