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How Life Shapes Us

How Life Shapes Us

Written by: Tesla Mitchell
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About this listen

How Life Shapes Us is a storytelling podcast where everyday people share the pivotal experiences that shaped who they are today. Hosted by journalist and marketer Tesla Mitchell, each episode uncovers real-life moments of growth, adversity, transformation, and meaning.

Perfect for curious minds who crave self-reflection, connection, and life lessons that don’t come from a guru—just honest humans figuring it out.

✨ Discover how people find purpose through pain, joy through challenge, and clarity through chaos.
🔍 Tune in for deep conversations, unexpected wisdom, and the moments that change everything.

👉 Subscribe now and join a growing community of listeners uncovering what really matters in life.

© 2026 How Life Shapes Us
Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • Samijo McClatchey: Healing, Inspiring, and Growing Community Whether in Fitness or Daycare
    Jan 5 2026

    For local business-owner Samijo McClatchey, navigating the pandemic as a gym owner (in an industry built on close human connection) forced her to rethink business, identity, and purpose.

    In this episode of How Life Shapes Us, host Tesla Mitchell talks with Samijo about how she got through some of the big life moments -- like shutting down her gym -- that shaped her into the forward-thinking, grounded, and driven person she is today.

    Samijo opens up about the lasting impact of abusive relationships, her journey through eating disorders, and the mental, emotional, and spiritual healing that followed. The conversation also explores Samijo’s transition into homeschooling and becoming a daycare provider, highlighting her continued commitment to nurturing, mentoring, and supporting others -- whether they're in the gym or in her daycare.

    Tune in to hear tips on:

    • Recognizing eating disorder behaviors
    • Understanding the path of healing
    • The power of authentic human connection in personal growth

    This episode offers an honest, compassionate look at what it means to heal — and to keep showing up for others while doing so.

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Pastor Green: Facing Death & Finding Purpose - A Pastor’s Journey
    Dec 15 2025

    Told he might never run — and later that he'd die in surgery — Pastor Warren Green refused to surrender to fear and instead chose to live with purpose.

    Pastor Green shares his story of survival, faith, and resilience in facing mortality head-on, and how he used life's "detours" as opportunities to grow his understanding of purpose and service.

    Talking about his invitation to Africa, Pastor Green shares how building a church and restaurant in Tanzania and Kenya has impacted local economies, has become a center for connection, and provided hope for their communities.

    If you’re navigating hardship, searching for meaning, or curious about how one person’s “yes” can change entire communities, this episode offers deep wisdom and inspiration.

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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Chris Jacobson: An Unconventional Path From Pro Wrestler to Pro Realtor
    Nov 17 2025

    From the wrestling ring to the open house, Chris Jacobson learned what confidence, grit, and pursuing an unconventional dream really takes — injuries and all.

    A former pro wrestler, ex-teacher, and now successful Winona realtor, Chris shares how pro wrestling taught him resilience, shaped his confidence, and prepared him for the highs and lows of the housing market.

    Tune in to hear:

    • How a change in career path doesn't mean a loss in time and talent.
    • Practical tips Chris uses with buyers and sellers in today’s market (what to watch for, mistakes to avoid).
    • The effort and grit it really takes to step into the ring

    Whether you love unconventional career paths or you’re house hunting this year, Chris’s story is an inspiring reminder that grit + willingness to try new things can create unexpected success.

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    1 hr and 7 mins
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