Welcome to Jenni's Uncensored Pennies — Jenni interviews her baby sister Mayra Castaneda, a full-time public sector professional, Texas State student, and mother of two who married an Army combat veteran nearly a decade older. They talk about how they met, the challenges of military life, and blending families.

The episode explores balancing work, school, and parenting, the importance of respect and communication in marriage, family support through hard times, and practical advice for anyone facing age gaps or blended-family dynamics.

Jenni and Cameron reflect on two recent episodes: Marcos’s journey from childhood leukemia to youth leadership and faith, and Kelly’s solo-travel transformation across dozens of countries.

They discuss trauma, healing, the role of faith and community, how narratives shape recovery, and the contrast between showing up and truly participating. The episode also explores how travel can reveal new parts of ourselves and the value of real, compassionate church spaces.

Throughout, they share candid observations about family, support systems, therapy, and recruiting new guests for the podcast.

Jenni interviews Kelly Kivlahan, a West Coast wanderer and social worker who left a toxic relationship, volunteered in Peru, and discovered a life of solo travel, service, and immersive cultural connection.

Kelly shares personal stories, practical safety tips, and the ways travel taught her to lean into discomfort, build empathy, and find freedom in the unknown (in forty-six different countries).