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How I Made It Through

How I Made It Through

Written by: Bernadette Thompson
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About this listen

How I Made It Through Podcast is here to help you open to a conversation about Spiritually Transformative experiences, some that you may already had.. This season I am bringing together others who deep understanding of the spiritual realm. All of them have had amazing experiences. Some are practitioners who have had experiences that change their lives and set them on the path of being a healer, and others are here to share their incredible stories. I am Bernadette Thompson. Ten years ago I began experiencing Spiritually transformative experiences that started with my Ancestors during a difficult time in my life, opening me to the gift of Intuitive Ancestral Healing. If you are either curious or even consumed with delving deeper understanding of the Spiritual realm, what happens when we cross over, and how we can become more fully alive, then this is the show for you. The more we learn about how we all experience the Spiritual world the more we become open. We will Explore #Ancestral Healing, #Spiritually, #Near Death Experiences, #Grief, #Trauma, #Consciousness, #Past Lives, Ancient Wisdom, Astrology and much more. Subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more stories of resilience and hope. If you have a story to share or feedback, reach out to us on our website or social media channels. Together, we can make a difference by lifting each other up through our shared experiences. #ancestralhealing, #neardeathexperience, #grief, #trauma, #ancientwisdom, #spirituality, #consciousness, #afterlife #spirituallytransformativeexperiences Links Instagram instagram.com/howimadeitthroughpodcast_ Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-made-it-through/id1605802615 Spotify open.spotify.com/show/7qYLg4p8WjVuT4aTQHlqQ7?si=3d5427a6951245ca YouTube youtube.com/@HowIMadeItThroughPodcast Facebook facebook.com/How.I.Made.It.Through Bernadette's Website website: www.tellmeourstory.comIrish Roads, LLC Science Social Sciences Spirituality
Episodes
  • Vinney Tolman's NDE, 60 min in a Body Bag and and extraordinary visit to Heaven!
    Jan 12 2026

    **Episode Title:** Journey Beyond: Vinney Todd Tolman's Near-Death Experience

    **Episode Description:**
    In this extraordinary episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Vinney Todd Tolman, who shares his profound near-death experience and the life-altering insights he gained from it. At the age of 25, Vinney was pronounced dead and placed in a body bag, only to miraculously return to life nearly an hour later. His journey, as detailed in his book "The Light After Death," unveils the incredible encounters and lessons he learned during his time beyond the veil. From meeting his spiritual guide, Drake, to experiencing the interconnectedness of all things, Vinney's story is a testament to the power of love, authenticity, and the eternal nature of the soul. This episode is a deep dive into the mysteries of life and death, and the transformative power of spiritual awakening.

    **Chapter Markers:**

    - **[00:00] Introduction**
    - Bernadette Thompson introduces the episode and guest, Vinney Todd Tolman.

    - **[03:00] The Fateful Day in 2003**
    - Vinney recounts the events leading up to his near-death experience.

    - **[06:00] The Overdose and Out-of-Body Experience**
    - Vinney describes the overdose incident and his initial out-of-body experience.

    - **[09:00] The Journey Begins**
    - Vinney watches events unfold from above and hears the thoughts of those around him.

    - **[12:00] The Rookie Medic's Intuition**
    - A rookie medic's intuition saves Vinney's life, leading to his miraculous revival.

    - **[15:00] Meeting the Guide, Drake**
    - Vinney meets his spiritual guide, Drake, and begins to learn profound lessons.

    - **[18:00] Lessons in Authenticity and Love**
    - Drake teaches Vinney about the importance of authenticity and love.

    - **[21:00] The Nature of Earth School**
    - Vinney learns about the purpose of life on Earth and the illusion of time.

    - **[24:00] The Power of Prejudice and Unity**
    - Vinney confronts his own prejudices and learns about the interconnectedness of all life.

    - **[27:00] The Vision of Heaven**
    - Vinney describes his experience of heaven and the overwhelming love he felt there.

    - **[30:00] The Retu:rn to Earth**
    - Vinney's brother's prayer brings him back to life, and he reflects on his journey.

    - **[33:00] A Miraculous Confirmation**
    - Vinney discovers the identity of his guide, Drake, and finds validation in his experience.

    - **[36:00] Embracing the Experience**
    - Vinney discusses the impact of his experience on his life and mental health.

    **Resources:**
    - Vinney Todd Tolman's book: The Light After Death, Vincent Todd Tolman with Lynn Taylor
    - Learn more about near-death experiences: International Association of Near Death Studies - IANDS.org
    - Connect with Vinney on social media: [Instagram](#) | [Twitter](#)

    Connect with Bernadette Thompson

    Tell Me Our Story, Ancestral Healing , website www.tellmeourstory.com

    Also at Ancestral Healing Center:

    YouTube@Ancestralhealingcenter

    www.AncestralHealingCenter.com

    **Call-to-Action:**
    If Vinney's story resonated with you, please consider sharing this episode with friends and family who might find inspiration in his journey. Don't forget to subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more incredible stories of resilience and transformation. Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to let us know what you think!

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • A Dime to Say I Love You, Kathryn Henry
    Nov 4 2025

    Childhood Trauma, Suicide Attempt, Profound Grief and Loss, and a Remarkable career with Lululemon, Gap, and Levi Strauss & Co. in-between.


    In this deeply moving episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Kathryn Henry, a spiritual seeker and business leader whose life journey is a testament to the power of resilience and transformation. Through raw personal storytelling, Kathryn shares her incredible story of overcoming childhood trauma, navigating the profound grief of losing her wife, Lisa, to cancer, and ultimately finding a path to self-realization and spiritual awakening.

    Kathryn's story is one of tragedy and triumph, illustrating how life's most challenging moments can lead to profound personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. She recounts her early struggles with childhood abuse, her journey through a Christian home, and the pivotal moments that shaped her understanding of spirituality. Kathryn also shares how she found solace and guidance in spiritual practices, leading her to a successful career in the corporate world and beyond.

    Throughout the episode, Kathryn and Bernadette explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring connections we share with those who have passed on. Kathryn's experiences with signs from Lisa after her passing offer a powerful testament to the spiritual connections that transcend the physical world.

    Join us for an inspiring conversation that delves into the depths of human resilience, the beauty of spiritual awakening, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life's challenges.

    Connect with Kathryn Henry: www.kathrynhenry.com

    Kathryn's Book: “A Dime to Say I Love You ” Available at amazon : https://www.amazon.com/Dime-Say-Love-You-Spiritual/dp/B0F787W89L

    Connect with Bernadette: www.tellmeourstory.com

    Bernadette@tellmeourstory.com

    **Chapter Markers:**

    - **[00:00] Introduction**
    - Bernadette introduces the podcast and welcomes Kathryn Henry, highlighting her background and achievements.

    - **[03:00] Kathryn's Early Life and Challenges**
    - Kathryn shares her experiences with childhood abuse and her time in a Christian home, setting the stage for her spiritual journey.

    - **[06:00] Spiritual Awakening and Personal Growth**
    - Discussion on how Kathryn's spiritual journey began, exploring different belief systems and finding tools for healing.

    - **[09:00] Love and Loss: Kathryn's Relationship with Lisa**
    - Kathryn talks about meeting Lisa, their life together, and the impact of Lisa's cancer diagnosis.

    - **[12:00] Coping with Grief and Finding Spiritual Connections**
    - Kathryn describes the spiritual connections she maintains with Lisa after her passing and the significance of signs and messages.

    - **[15:00] Overcoming Career Challenges and Finding Success**
    - Kathryn shares her unconventional path to a successful career and the lessons learned along the way.

    - **[18:00] Embracing Service and Helping Others**
    - Discussion on Kathryn's current endeavors, including mentoring and sound healing, and her commitment to service.

    **Resources:**

    - Kathryn Henry's Book: "A Dime to Say I Love You"
    - Information on sound healing and energy healing practices
    - Meditation and spiritual study resources

    **Call-to-Action:**

    Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "How I Made It Through." If Kathryn's story inspired you, please share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from her insights. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories of resilience and transformation. Connect with us on social media to join the conversation and stay updated on future episodes. If you have a story you'd like to share or feedback on this episode, reach out to us through our website. Your journey matters, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

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    48 mins
  • What if the darkest moment of your life became the doorway to the divine? Heather Vandermeyden
    Sep 30 2025

    **Episode Title:** What if the Darkest Moment of Your Life Became the Doorway to the Divine? Heather Vandermeyden

    Three months in ICU, Twenty Near-Death Experiences; The Remarkable story of survival and awakening

    Connect with Heather Vandermeyden: https://heathervandermeyden.com/

    She is the author of “ Miracles from the Other Side”

    Connect with Bernadette Thompson: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

    - International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)
    - Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson. “Life After Life” by Dr. Raymond Moody
    - EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)


    In this profound and moving episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson welcomes Heather Vandermeyden, whose life journey took a remarkable turn through a series of near-death experiences (NDEs). Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Heather's deep connection to nature and spirituality guided her through a life-altering health crisis. At the age of 19, Heather was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis, leading to a series of critical medical emergencies and multiple surgeries.

    During these harrowing experiences, Heather encountered profound spiritual realms and divine love that transformed her understanding of life and death. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the enduring connection between this world and the next. Heather's NDEs provided her with insights into the afterlife, consciousness, and the healing power of love and prayer.

    This episode offers comfort and hope to anyone facing illness or supporting a loved one through a health crisis. Heather's gentle and calming recounting of her experiences provides a unique perspective on the intersection of life, death, and spirituality.

    **Chapter Markers:**

    - **[00:00] Introduction**
    - Bernadette introduces Heather Vandermeyden and sets the stage for the conversation about her near-death experiences.

    - **[03:00] Heather's Early Life and Diagnosis**
    - Heather shares her background and the onset of her illness, leading to her first NDE.

    - **[06:00] The First Near-Death Experience**
    - Heather describes her initial encounter with the divine voice and the beginning of her spiritual journey.

    - **[09:00] Medical Crisis and Spiritual Awakening**
    - Details of Heather's critical health condition and the profound spiritual experiences during her surgeries.

    - **[12:00] The Realm of Love and Healing**
    - Heather recounts her experiences in a realm of immense love and healing, meeting ancestors and spiritual guides.

    - **[15:00] The Library of Knowledge**
    - A visit to a mystical library where Heather encountered ancient wisdom.

    - **[18:00] Angels and Divine Guidance**
    - Heather's interactions with guardian angels and their role in her healing journey.

    - **[21:00] The Power of Prayer and Faith**
    - Insights into how prayer and faith contributed to Heather's survival and healing.

    - **[24:00] Validations and Lessons Learned**
    - Heather discusses the validations of her experiences and the lessons she has learned about life and the afterlife.

    **Resources:**

    - International Association for Near-Death Studies: [Website](https://www.iands.org/)
    - Books on Near-Death Experiences: "Proof of Heaven" by Dr. Eben Alexander, "After" by Dr. Bruce Greyson
    - EMDR Therapy: [EMDR International Association](https://www.emdria.org/)

    **Call-to-Action:**

    If Heather's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing about the healing power of love and the existence of life beyond our earthly experience. Subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more inspiring stories of transformation and resilience. Don't forget to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover these powerful narratives. Join our community on social media to continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals.

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    52 mins
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