Journey Beyond: Vinney Todd Tolman's Near-Death Experience,

“The Miraculous Journey from Body Bag to Heaven and Back”

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.

- Vinney Todd Tolman's book: The Light After Death, Vincent Todd Tolman with Lynn Taylor (available at Amazon)
- Learn more about near-death experiences: International Association of Near Death Studies - IANDS.org
- Connect with Vinney at

Living God's Light : www. livinggodslight.org

Connect with Bernadette Thompson

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

Also at Ancestral Healing Center:

YouTube@Ancestralhealingcenter

www.AncestralHealingCenter.com


**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:**

**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!

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.

**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.

**This Episode: “A Canary in the Coal Mine” Unraveling Ancestral Trauma With Ruschelle Khanna LCSW

In this incredible episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Ruschelle Khanna, who shares her personal journey of healing from a severe health crisis that led her to uncover the roots of chronic illness in inherited trauma. As family business consultant and psychotherapist, she has helped others to explore the profound impact of generational and ancestral trauma on our lives.Together, Bernadette and Ruschelle delve into the stories and patterns passed down through generations, discussing how these narratives shape our behavior and relationships. They also touch on the spiritual aspects of ancestral connections and how engaging with these energies can lead to profound healing and understanding. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of mental health, spirituality, and family lineage.

**Resources:**

- **Ruschelle Khanna's Book:** "Inherited Trauma and Family Love: A Guide to Better Relationships and Building a Lasting Legacy"
- **Ancestral Healing Center:** Upcoming resource center for community and education on ancestral healing.
- **Family Constellations Therapy:** Explore this therapeutic approach to understanding family systems.

Connect with Ruschelle:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruschelle-khanna-lifestyle-for-legacy/

https://www.lifestyleforlegacy.com/

Find Bernadette at: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

- **Subscribe and Share:** If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "How I Made It Through" and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from understanding the impact of ancestral trauma.
- **Join the Community:** Stay tuned for more information on the Ancestral Healing Center and how you can get involved in upcoming courses and events.
- **Connect with Us:** Follow Bernadette Thompson and Ruschelle Khanna on social media for updates and insights on ancestral healing and personal growth.

This episode offers a deep dive into the transformative power of understanding our ancestral stories and the healing potential that lies within them. Join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment!

**Chapter Markers:**

- **[0:00] Introduction to Ruschelle Khanna**
- Bernadette introduces her guest, Ruschelle Khanna, and discusses her work as a family business consultant and psychotherapist focusing on inherited trauma.

- **[3:00] Ruschelle's Personal Journey**
- Ruschelle shares her personal health crisis that led to her spiritual awakening and understanding of ancestral trauma.

- **[6:00] The Impact of Ancestral Stories**
- Discussion on how family stories and inherited trauma manifest in our lives and the importance of recognizing these patterns.

- **[9:00] Exploring Ancestral Healing**
- Ruschelle explains how she integrates ancestral healing into her practice and the transformative effects it can have on individuals and families.

- **[12:00] Spiritual Awakening and Ancestral Connections**
- Bernadette and Ruschelle discuss their personal experiences with spiritual awakenings and the role of ancestors in guiding and healing.

- **[15:00] Patterns of Behavior and Family Dynamics**
- The conversation turns to how inherited trauma influences family dynamics and individual behaviors, and ways to address these patterns.

- **[18:00] The Role of Ancestral Stories in Healing**
- Ruschelle highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in reshaping family narratives and breaking cycles of trauma.

- **[21:00] Introducing the Ancestral Healing Center**
- Ruschelle shares exciting details about the upcoming Ancestral Healing Center, a collaborative project aimed at educating and supporting individuals on their healing journeys.

The Hidden Pain of Family Secrets with Michael H Hallett** - A Journey to Understand Ancestral Trauma

Michael H Hallett's incredible insights and understanding of Generational and Ancestral Trauma makes this an episode everyone should listen to.. All families have trauma in their past uncovering and understanding begin the healing.

In this deeply insightful episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson is joined by Michael H Hallett, an expert in generational trauma, to explore the profound impact of ancestral trauma on our lives. Michael, who transitioned from a career in process analysis and software engineering to the intricate world of human emotional processes, shares his unique mechanical approach to understanding and healing generational trauma.

The conversation delves into the concept of emotional overwhelm and how traumatic experiences, whether personal or ancestral, create "stuck energy" that can be passed down through generations via epigenetic inheritance. Michael shares his personal journey of uncovering his family's hidden pains, including the profound impact of his grandmother's early death and the subsequent emotional void in his family narrative. He also discusses the societal lack of understanding around these issues and the importance of constructing a language and framework to process them.

Listeners will learn about the manifestations of generational trauma within families, how these inherited wounds can dictate our emotional responses, and the patterns of behavior that often arise from them. Michael provides poignant examples from his own life, illustrating the pervasive effects of unresolved trauma and the healing journey that follows its acknowledgment.

Michael's new book, "The Generational Trauma Workshop Manual," is highlighted as a practical guide for those seeking to understand and heal their own generational wounds. The episode concludes with a discussion on the historical context of trauma research, touching on studies involving descendants of Holocaust survivors.

Reach out to Michael:

Michael H Hallett website: https://www.michaelhhallett.com/

- **Michael H Hallett's Book:** The Generational Trauma Workshop Manual (available on Amazon)
- **Research on Epigenetic Inheritance:** Dr. Rachel Yehuda's work on trauma transmission
- **Related Episodes:** Exploring Ancestral Healing and Trauma Patterns

Reach out to Bernadette Thompson:

https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

Bernadette@tellmeourstory.com


**Chapter Markers:**

- **[00:00] Introduction:** Bernadette introduces the episode's topic and guest, Michael H Hallett.
- **[03:00] Understanding Generational Trauma:** Michael explains emotional overwhelm and epigenetic inheritance.
- **[06:00] Personal Journey:** Michael shares his first experience with generational trauma and its impact.
- **[09:00] Family Stories and Secrets:** The role of hidden family narratives in shaping our identities.
- **[12:00] Patterns of Behavior:** How trauma responses manifest in everyday life.
- **[15:00] Spiritual and Ancestral Connections:** The role of spiritual awareness in uncovering family trauma.
- **[18:00] The Generational Trauma Workshop Manual:** Michael discusses his book and its practical applications.
- **[21:00] Historical Context and Research:** Insights into trauma studies involving Holocaust descendants.



Thank you for tuning in to this enlightening episode of "How I Made It Through." If you found this discussion valuable, please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with friends and family who may benefit from understanding the hidden pains of family secrets. For more insights and resources, visit our website and join our community on social media. Your journey towards healing and understanding begins with a single step—let's take it together.

Bright Days Do Come…
In this poignant episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Karin McLean, author of the transformative book "Bright Days Do Come." Karin shares her deeply personal journey of surviving a devastating car accident that claimed the life of her younger brother, Brian, and left her with life-altering injuries. Through the lens of her near-death experience and spiritual awakening, Karin offers insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the profound connection to the afterlife. This episode delves into themes of grief, spiritual transformation, and the power of love and support in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

To Reach out to Karin McLean- https://authorkarinmclean.com/
- **Book:** "Bright Days Do Come" by Karin McLean (available on amazon)

To Reach out to Bernadette Thompson - https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

email: Bernadett@tellmeourstory.com

additional resources
- **Organization:** International Association for Near-Death Studies (IANDS)
- **Support Group:** Unity Church Grief Support

**Call-to-Action:**

- **Subscribe & Share:** If you found Karin’s story inspiring, subscribe to "How I Made It Through" and share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from its message.
- **Connect with Us:** Follow us on social media for updates and join our community to continue the conversation about resilience and spiritual journeys.
- **Leave a Review:** Your feedback helps us reach more listeners. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

**Chapter Markers:**

- **[00:00] Introduction**
- Bernadette introduces Karin McLean and her book "Bright Days Do Come," setting the stage for a discussion about loss, survival, and spiritual awakening.

- **[03:00] The Accident**
- Karin recounts the details of the car accident, the immediate aftermath, and the injuries sustained by her and her family.

- **[06:00] Medical Miracles and Initial Recovery**
- The critical role of first responders and medical professionals in saving Karin’s life and the beginning of her recovery journey.

- **[09:00] Coping with Loss**
- Karin discusses the emotional impact of learning about her brother Brian's death and the absence of closure from missing his funeral.

- **[12:00] Spiritual Signs and Awakening**
- Karin shares her first encounter with Brian’s spirit and the profound experiences that confirmed his presence and continued existence.

- **[15:00] Near-Death Experience and Spiritual Exploration**
- Exploration of Karin’s near-death experience, her quest for understanding, and the spiritual insights gained from her research.

- **[18:00] Transformative Moments and Religious Transition**
- Karin reflects on how the accident shifted her religious beliefs to a more spiritual path, emphasizing personal choice and spiritual growth.

- **[21:00] The Role of Family and Support Systems**
- Discussion on Karin’s family dynamics post-accident, particularly her mother's journey through grief and spiritual transformation.

**Resources:**

- **Book:** "Bright Days Do Come" by Karin McLean
- **Organization:** International Association for Near-Death Studies (IANDS)
- **Support Group:** Unity Church Grief Support

**Call-to-Action:**

- **Subscribe & Share:** If you found Karin’s story inspiring, subscribe to "How I Made It Through" and share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from its message.
- **Connect with Us:** Follow us on social media for updates and join our community to continue the conversation about resilience and spiritual journeys.
- **Leave a Review:** Your feedback helps us reach more listeners. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Join us next time on "How I Made It Through" for more stories of resilience and transformation.

In this beautiful episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Francine Apy, a trailblazer in the adoption community and the founder of SoulFilling. Francine has over 30 years of lived experience and she more than anyone knows of the spiritual journey of joining together Adoptive Parents, Birth families and the Adoptees


Francine discusses the creation of her platform, inspired by a close friend and her own experiences, to fill a gap in mainstream conversations about adoption. She emphasizes the importance of within the adoption triad: adoptive parents, birth families, and adoptees. Francine passionately advocates for changing the narrative around adoption, focusing on inclusivity and understanding.

Listeners will learn about Francine's children's book, "Brianna's Brave Day at School," and her personal growth journal, "Sparking the Next Chapter: Your Adoption Journey in Words and Photos." Both works aim to amplify the conversation around adoption and provide tools for personal reflection and growth.

Join Bernadette and Francine as they explore the emotional journey of adoption, the significance of storytelling, and the power of embracing one's unique story, whether through adoption or ancestry.



- **Soul Filling Website:** [Soul Filling](https://www.soulfilling.com)
- **Books by Francine Apy:**
- *Brianna's Brave Day at School* - Available on Amazon
- *Sparking the Next Chapter: Your Adoption Journey in Words and Photos* - Available on Amazon

Reach out to Bernadette : www.tellmeourstory.com

email: Bernadette@tellmeourstory.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "How I Made It Through" and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from Francine's insights into the adoption journey. Visit Francine's website to learn more about her work and explore the resources available for those touched by adoption. Join us next week for another inspiring story of resilience and transformation. Stories, Symbols, and Support

**Chapter Markers:**

- **[00:00] Introduction:** Bernadette introduces Francine Apy and the mission of Soul Filling.
- **[03:00] Francine's Journey:** Francine shares her background and what led her to create Soul Filling.
- **[06:00] The Adoption Narrative:** Discussing the evolution of adoption stories and the importance of modern conversations.
- **[09:00] The Emotional Journey:** Exploring the emotional experiences of adoptive families and adoptees.
- **[12:00] Tools for Reflection:** Francine talks about her books and resources designed to support the adoption community.
- **[15:00] Language and Empowerment:** The impact of language on adoption narratives and empowering adoptees.
- **[18:00] The Power of Storytelling:** How storytelling helps bridge gaps and foster understanding in adoption.
- **[21:00] Francine's Vision:** Future goals for Soul Filling and fostering inclusivity within the adoption triad.

Releasing My Dad Into the Afterlife, with Amber Kasic, A Shared Death Experience


In this Beautiful episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson sits down with Amber Kasic, a teacher, educational consultant, and evidential medium, to explore her profound journey of spiritual awakening and transformation. Amber shares the deeply moving story of her father's passing in November 2020, which served as a pivotal moment in her life, opening her to a new path of spiritual connection and mediumship.

Amber recounts the extraordinary shared death experience she had with her father, describing the sensation of an energy entering her body and the undeniable bond it created with her dad. This experience not only initiated her spiritual journey but also led her to a deeper understanding of life, death, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Throughout the conversation, Amber and Bernadette discuss the nature of spiritual awakenings, the importance of recognizing signs and synchronicities, and the transformative power of love and unity. Amber also shares her journey into mediumship, detailing how she began to receive messages from her father and others in spirit, and how this has shaped her purpose and how she shows up in the world.

Join us for an inspiring and enlightening conversation that delves into the mysteries of life, death, and the spiritual connections that transcend the physical realm.

Connect with Amber

- Amber Kasic's Website: http://www.natureswayopen.com

To Connect with Bernadette Thompson

https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

email: Bernadette@tellmeourstory.com

**Resources:**
- International Association of Near Death Studies: [iands.org](http://www.iands.org)
- Suzanne Giesemann's Work: [suzannegiesemann.com](http://www.suzannegiesemann.com)

**Chapter Markers:**

- **[00:00]** - Introduction: Meet Amber Kasic
- **[03:00]** - The Passing of Amber's Father and Her Spiritual Awakening
- **[06:00]** - The Shared Death Experience
- **[09:00]** - Understanding Death and Spiritual Connection
- **[12:00]** - Signs, Synchronicities, and After-Death Communication
- **[15:00]** - The Journey into Mediumship
- **[18:00]** - The Transformative Power of Love and Unity
- **[21:00]** - The Role of Nature in Spiritual Awakening
- **[24:00]** - Embracing Spiritual Gifts and Purpose
- **[27:00]** - Conclusion: Connecting with Amber Kasic

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to "How I Made It Through" and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue to bring you inspiring stories of transformation and spiritual growth.

Connect with us on social media to join the conversation and share your thoughts on this episode. If you have a story of your own spiritual journey or awakening, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us through our website or social media channels.

Thank you for listening, and remember, we are all connected through the essence of life and love.