The Dharma Project 🦋

In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we dive into the remarkable story of Rori Zura, a triple-negative breast cancer survivor turned fitness powerhouse. Diagnosed at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic at just 33, Rori faced her battle with the same tenacity that defined her athletic spirit. Transforming her struggle into strength, she not only overcame the disease but also emerged as a certified personal trainer and cancer exercise specialist, focusing on the unique needs of breast cancer survivors.

Join us as Rori shares her journey of discovery, diagnosis, and determination, revealing how she channeled her lifelong athleticism into a tool for survival and empowerment. From confronting the fears of her family's cancer history to facing her own health challenges head-on, Rori's story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of fitness.

Through Foobs & Fitness, Rori now leads a movement to educate and support individuals in taking control of their health, proving that with the right mindset and support, you can rise above adversity and thrive. Discover how Rori's passion for fitness and wellness is helping others to not just survive, but flourish in the face of cancer, turning their battles into victories.

In this heartening episode of The Dharma Project, join us as we delve into the inspiring world of Vanessa Villela, an award-winning Mexican-American actress and a passionate real estate professional, known for her riveting performances that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Vanessa shares her journey from the glittering lights of television sets to the competitive realm of real estate, all while carrying the legacy of her late sister, a beacon of motivation in her life. 

Vanessa's story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of love. With roles that have resonated with viewers across over 120 countries and her venture into real estate showcased in the hit Netflix series "Selling Sunset," she exemplifies how personal trials can lead to profound professional and personal growth. Beyond her career achievements, Vanessa's mission to empower women shines brightly, illustrated by her creation of The Wave of Love brand. This initiative symbolizes hope, strength, and the enduring spirit of sisterhood, inspired by the mystical connection with butterflies representing love, transformation, and rebirth.

Tune in to this episode to discover Vanessa's multifaceted life, marked by remarkable resilience and a commitment to making a difference. Her insights into overcoming adversity, staying true to one's passions, and the importance of spreading love and empowerment are not just compelling but deeply moving. Vanessa's journey encourages us all to find our wings and soar, reminding us of the beauty and strength within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.

In this transformative episode, we dive deep into a conversation with Kelly Villars, a visionary physical therapist with over two decades of experience, who has dedicated her life to transcending conventional healing methodologies. Kelly's philosophy, "Take Time to Nurture You," serves as a testament to her belief in nurturing the body, mind, and spirit to achieve profound healing.

Life's challenges can be taxing on our bodies, leading to pain, discomfort, and immobility. However, Kelly Villars reminds us that enduring these conditions is not inevitable. With her expertise, especially in lymphedema therapy, Kelly has witnessed the myriad ways in which individuals can heal, whether it's from an orthopedic trauma or more complex conditions that delve deeper, such as soft tissue injuries from radiation therapy or the long-term effects of physical traumas.

Kelly shares her insightful journey towards developing a personalized healing program that goes beyond the confines of traditional outpatient settings. This program is meticulously designed to promote healing at a deeper level, allowing for a harmonious integration of physical recovery with emotional and spiritual well-being. By fostering a nurturing environment, Kelly enables a unique collaboration with her clients, encouraging a closer connection to their "body talk" and energy.

This episode not only sheds light on Kelly's innovative approach to physical therapy but also illuminates the path to total healing. Through her eyes, we explore the potential of a holistic healing journey that acknowledges the individual needs of each client, striving for a better, healthier, and pain-free existence.

Join us as Kelly Villars shares her wisdom, experiences, and her unwavering commitment to nurturing and restoring the body over time. Whether you're navigating through the aftermath of an injury, battling chronic conditions, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of holistic health practices, this conversation promises to inspire, educate, and guide you towards embracing your healing potential.

Together, let's explore the possibilities of combining healing with harmony, as we partner with Kelly Villars on the road to a rejuvenated self.

In this heartfelt episode of "Empowering Journeys," host Stephanie engages in a profound conversation with Terri Sterk, a two-time triple negative breast cancer survivor, health and wellness coach, and author. Stephanie delves into Terri's inspiring story of resilience and determination, exploring the emotional and physical challenges she faced during her journey. Terri shares invaluable insights on how she transformed her cancer experience into a source of strength, not only for herself but for countless other women. Through their engaging dialogue, they touch upon the importance of self-care, creating energy boundaries, and finding beauty in the midst of adversity. This episode is a beacon of hope and encouragement, shedding light on the power of positive thinking, community support, and the profound impact of sharing one's story to inspire and empower others in their cancer journey.

In this enlightening episode of The Dharma Project, we sit down with IFBB Pro Marina Maliden, a trailblazer in health and fitness. Marina shares her inspiring journey from Ukraine to Israel and then to the United States, weaving through her experiences in the Israel Defense Force, bodybuilding, and her deep-seated passion for wellness. As a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, Marina discusses the transformative power of understanding one's health and the crucial role of mental toughness in achieving personal goals. Dive into a conversation full of actionable insights on nutrition, fitness, and the profound impact of personal history on health choices. Marina's story is a testament to the belief that with the right mindset and guidance, anyone can navigate the path to better health and enduring well-being. Join us to explore how Marina's dedication to helping others stems from personal loss and how it fuels her mission to foster resilience and health empowerment.

In this profound episode of The Dharma Project, host Stephanie Weeks sits down with Dana LeDuff Slaughter, a business manager, clinical nutritionist, and certified health coach with a wealth of experience in wellness and self-care. Dana shares her unique perspective on the transformative power of a cancer diagnosis, framing it as a wake-up call that compels individuals to realign with their purpose and passion. With empathy and insight, Dana and Stephanie delve into the complexities of living with cancer, discussing the importance of a proactive approach to health, the role of mindset in healing, and the often overlooked silver lining of cancer as a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. Through heartfelt stories and expert advice, this episode offers hope, empowerment, and a fresh outlook on facing life's most daunting challenges with courage and love.

Join me, Stephanie, on a special episode marking three years since my cancer diagnosis. Dive into a journey of resilience, insights, and personal growth as I reflect on the initial shock of my diagnosis, the ups and downs of treatment, and the profound lessons learned along the way. This episode isn't just a look back—it's a celebration of survival, a testament to the strength found in adversity, and a source of hope for anyone facing their own battles. As the first in a series of reflective episodes, join me in uncovering the beauty and strength that can emerge from life's toughest challenges.

Join us in an inspiring episode with Stephanie Weeks and Alysha Fassnacht, whose journey through Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) unfolds a story of unwavering courage and indomitable spirit. Alysha takes us through her diagnosis, treatment, and the journey to recovery, illuminating the path with insights on self-advocacy, the power of positivity, and the importance of community support. Her narrative is a testament to the resilience required to face TNBC and the transformative power of embracing life's challenges with grace and determination. Alysha's experience is not just a story of survival but a beacon of hope, encouraging others to find strength in vulnerability and to keep shining despite the darkness. Tune in to discover how Alysha turned her battle with cancer into a narrative of hope, healing, and triumph.

Dive into this episode to discover how to manifest faster with Laura StJohn and witness how mindset can be the most powerful tool in your healing and growth journey. 

In this deeply engaging episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Laura St John, a beacon of transformation and manifestation. Laura, renowned for her groundbreaking work showcased on NBC Access Hollywood and a standout appearance on a Netflix show, delves into the art of turning life's struggles into unparalleled strength. Her philosophy, rooted in the belief that every stepping stone prepares us for what's next, offers a refreshing perspective on overcoming past burdens and embracing future possibilities.

Laura's journey is a testament to the power of mindset in manifesting dreams into reality. With a vibrant track record of success, her leading-edge tools and actionable strategies help flip negative experiences into opportunities for growth and happiness.

Whether you're seeking to unblock happiness, manifest more money, or create a vision board that brings your dreams to life, Laura's wisdom offers a blueprint for profound personal and financial transformation. Join us as we explore the steps to harnessing frustration into a crystal clear vision, ensuring you wake up and go to bed with the peace and happiness you deserve.

Join host Stephanie Weeks in this enlightening episode of "The Dharma Project," where she interviews Dianne Porchia, a renowned holistic stress reduction expert. Dianne shares her unique approach to healing, blending spiritual psychology with somatic dialogue, offering profound insights into tackling life’s greatest health challenges, including cancer.

Dianne delves into the intricacies of psycho-neuro immunology and epigenetics, illustrating how our mental, emotional, and spiritual health profoundly impacts our physical well-being. Through her compassionate approach, she highlights the power of mind-body connection, encouraging listeners to embrace healing not just physically but also on a deeper, more holistic level.

This episode also touches on Stephanie's personal journey as a triple negative breast cancer survivor, intertwining her experiences with Dianne’s expert perspectives. Together, they explore the significance of integrating traditional and holistic healing modalities, underscoring the importance of self-advocacy and personalized care in the healing process.

Tune in to this episode for a journey of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of holistic healing. It's an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the deeper aspects of health and wellness, reminding us of the incredible strength and potential for healing that lies within us all.

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*Discover more inspiring stories and insights at [The Dharma Project](https://porchiaswish.com/).*

In this engaging interview, we journey into the dynamic world of #RBT, a prominent Youtube content creator renowned for his compelling and innovative videos. RBT shares his extraordinary journey from a passionate enthusiast to a celebrated Youtuber with over 1.2 million followers. He opens up about the evolution of his Youtube channel, the challenges and triumphs of content creation, and the essential role of adaptability, discipline, and persistence in the competitive sphere of Youtube. This interview is not just a glimpse into RBT's world, but also a source of inspiration and practical advice for anyone aspiring to make an impact on Youtube.

Join Stephanie Weeks in her deeply personal and transformative podcast episode, marking her first update in two years. Dive into her journey as a triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) survivor, where she candidly shares the trials and triumphs since her last update in December 2021. From the initial shock and grappling with a rare, aggressive diagnosis to navigating treatments and facing adrenal insufficiency, Stephanie opens up about the realities of her health journey. She reflects on the power of managing stress, the role of spirituality, and the importance of finding the right medical support. This episode isn't just about the struggles; it's a story of finding beauty in adversity, the strength in vulnerability, and the unwavering hope that guides her mission to help others. Whether you're a fellow survivor, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking inspiration from a brave journey, Stephanie's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of hope. Tune in for an audio-visual experience that promises not only insight but also a heartfelt connection. Share in her mission to spread positivity and find beauty in the most challenging circumstances.

Back with another Beauty in Cancer Update! I have been out for a while and so many things have happened in the last couple of weeks, but everything turned out really great!

With the Grace of God, I survived my surgery and it all went well. In this episode, I talk about the experience I had, and I gotta tell you, as strange as it may sound, it's pretty cool! I am looking forward to my continuous therapies and procedures - It won't be an easy road but I'm excited to be alive.

These times have proved to me time and time again how lucky I am that so many people love me, have been praying for me, and checking up on me. The gift of friendship and the genuine love and joy I received are what keep me grounded and inspire me to continue fighting this battle. ❤️🙏🏻🌈

The Stars Align with Holly Hollis Stars

This week on The Dharma Project, Stephanie talks to Holly Hollis Stars. She is a spectacular blogger, a lawyer, a devoted wife, and a cancer warrior.

In this episode, they talk about her cancer journey, how she became a blogger, and how it became a platform for helping fellow cancer patients like her. Like Stephanie, Holly is still in the battle of fighting cancer. She had remission for 10 months and since then, she is still receiving all sorts of treatments. Holly is a strong believer in the power of prayer and the power of God providing healing. She spreads positivity and light, optimism as well as truth, and tries to always live life to the absolute fullest!

Check out Holly's blog and socials below to connect:

Blog: https://thestarsalign.blog/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=23426034

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyhollisstars/

This update was recorded June 18th. It was my second week of the new set of drugs that I am in. It's a roller coaster ride but in the end, I am grateful for everything that has happened on that week.

This was also the week that I started losing my hair. Yes, I was scared and I was nervous. But there were still some funny things out of it.

Despite everything, I am thankful to have these days. I'm thankful for my friends and for everyone helping me out. I am thankful to have the opportunity to share my cancer journey with you. This is why I'm doing this podcast. If you know someone going through the same thing as me, I hope you share this podcast with them. And I hope this inspires them, too. Thank you for the love and support. I am forever grateful. 🙏🏻🌈✨

This update was recorded on June first, the first Tuesday I haven't had a chemo treatment in 13 weeks. There have been ups and downs, but I'm feeling good!

As I start this next phase of treatment, I wanted to share an update on the things I've been doing, what's been working, how I've been feeling... and a special note from my doctor!

I'm sharing my experience of fighting cancer in the hopes of helping others, even if it's just one person!  So if there is anyone in your life who is going through chemo or supporting a loved one through cancer, I hope you will share this Podcast.

And for all of you following along,  thank you so much for the love, support, encouragement, and prayers! ❤️🦋✨

It might have taken a cancer diagnosis, but I've finally learned the importance of slowing down, being kinder and more forgiving with myself, and listening to my body.

I just completed nine out of twelve weekly chemo treatments that will make up my first round of cancer treatment, and I've been very lucky to only have two days where I've felt really bad. I know this is because of everything I've been doing to focus on my body, my health, and my mind.

So in today's update on finding the beauty in cancer, I'm sharing what I've learned so far in this journey, some of the ways I'm choosing to approach treatment, and all the ways I'm working to take care of myself to give my body what it needs to fight this war.

Thank you all so much for being on this journey with me, and for all the thoughts, prayers, and messages.

I've been working my butt off fighting cancer.

Some days are good and some days are hard, but I'm learning to surrender, fight myself less, and listen to my body.

I've completed seven rounds of chemo, and while I know I need that magic fairy dust (as I like to call it) to heal me, it's still hard to walk in those doors each week. Having treatment buddies go with me has helped... and so has dressing up in fun and crazy outfits to lift not only my spirits but those around me!

When I set out on this journey to beat cancer, I asked myself "Is there beauty in cancer?" I've made a point along the way to look for the lessons this experience is trying to teach me and to find that beauty. In this episode, I'm sharing some of those with you.

A huge thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind words and well wishes, it helps more than you know!

Have you ever had someone in your life who is going through a hard time, and you wanted to do something for them didn't know exactly what to do?

I have.

So in today's bonus episode, I'm sharing an update with some of the amazing ways people in my life have reached out to help support me as I begin my journey through cancer treatment.

From gifts to kind words, those gestures of love and support can mean so much during a difficult time.

Chemo is fairy dust, liquid goal that will heal me. This was my thought as I arrived at my first treatment dressed as a fairy in my blue wig, sequin top, and rainbow skirt!

In the days following my first treatment, I recorded this update reflecting on how I'm feeling, what seems to be helping, and how clear it has become to me that people need people.

I also talk about what it's been like to receive so much support from my friends, family, and team, and share my thoughts on how you can support people in your life who may be going through a similar journey.

I got more information from my doctors. And it's shit. It sucks, and I'm not happy about it.

BUT I'm not one to dwell on negatives or how much "cancer sucks", instead I try to find the beauty in everything and look for the lessons life is teaching me.

I've been overwhelmed with gratitude by the outpouring of support from everyone since my diagnosis, so today I wanted to share an update on my journey in the hopes it helps even just one other person.

In today's episode I'm talking about how things like journaling, receiving support, research, saline drips, and meditation are helping me through this time (and MANY doctors appointments) as I prepare for my first chemo treatment!

A big thank you to all of you listening for coming along on this journey with me as I look for the beauty in cancer. ❤️

I recently got some news from my doctor that has changed the course of my life.

So today's episode is a little different. I wanted to give all of you a real and raw account of what's been going on, what this means, and my thoughts and feelings on it. 🦋

Thank to everyone listening, and my love and appreciation to all my family and friends who've been my rock through all of this ❤️

Throughout October Stephanie is bringing you episodes of The Dharma Project with guests sharing their stories of how breast cancer has touched their lives, and this week is an extra special episode where she is talking with her mom, Debra Turlich.

Debra shares the story of how she was diagnosed with breast cancer nearly ten years ago as a busy teacher raising her handicapped daughter and three grandchildren.

Listen as she and Stephanie discuss how family helped her through the busy time undergoing treatment, why it’s critical to maintain a positive attitude, altering your diet and lifestyle to make sure you’re not feeding the cancer, and why you should probably be taking vitamin C!