Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray

Speaking for the Dead: Dr. Joye Carter

"When you take away the skin, we are all the same. Everyone deserves respect in life—and in death."
In this riveting episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey welcomes Dr. Joye Carter, the first Black female chief medical examiner in the United States, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation. Dr. Carter shares the extraordinary journey that led her to forensic pathology—from a childhood medical crisis to a chance encounter with a post-mortem exam at age 14. Listeners are treated to an unfiltered look at the realities of death investigation, racial and gender biases in medicine, and the sacred responsibility of speaking for the dead. Dr. Carter also reveals the systemic flaws within the coroner system, the battle against the pseudoscience of "excited delirium," and her ongoing mission to mentor the next generation of forensic pathologists. Now retired, Dr. Carter continues to influence the world through advocacy, mentoring, and yes—her garden and her beloved dogs. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about justice, equity, and the truth behind the headlines.
What You’ll Learn:
How a childhood illness sparked Dr. Carter's medical aspirations
The systemic differences between coroners and medical examinersWhy cause of death is foundational to justice
The truth about racial and gender disparities in autopsy practices
How flawed forensic practices have led to wrongful imprisonments
The controversy behind "excited delirium" and its racial implications
The power of mentorship and why representation in medicine matters
Dr. Joye M. Carter is a pioneer in forensic pathology, becoming the first Black female to serve as a chief medical examiner in the United States. Over a career spanning more than four decades and 25,000 autopsies, she has served in top forensic roles with the Armed Forces, Washington D.C., Houston, and Indianapolis. She is the author of I Speak for the Dead, and an outspoken advocate for dignity in death, equity in medicine, and justice for marginalized communities. Even in retirement, Dr. Carter mentors aspiring pathologists and continues to speak out on national issues related to death investigation.
Connect with Dr. Joye Carter:
LinkedIn
Twitter (X) - @joyejoy32
Instagram - @docdocjo
Book: I Speak for the Dead  (Available on Amazon)
Resources & Links:
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
Information on forensic pathology careers: College of American Pathologists
National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME)
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How Predators Operate (and How We Win) - Micha Star Liberty

"Real justice isn't about money—it's about being heard, believed, and seen."
In this emotionally powerful episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey Lindsay sits down with renowned civil rights attorney, activist, and entrepreneur Micha Star Liberty. Micha shares her deeply personal journey from witnessing devastating loss as a teenager to dedicating her career to fighting for survivors of sexual violence, human trafficking, and systemic injustice. Through candid and insightful conversation, Micha reveals the realities of vicarious trauma, the complexities of justice, and the evolving landscape of tech-facilitated abuse. She also highlights her advocacy efforts to reform laws, train trauma-informed leaders, and build pathways of empowerment for women globally. This is a must-listen episode for anyone passionate about human rights, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.
What You'll Learn:
The harrowing story that inspired Micha's legal career and advocacy
Why real justice is more than financial compensation
How tech platforms are complicit in modern trafficking and exploitation
What "sextortion" is and why it's especially dangerous for boys
How we can recognize trafficking victims and respond safely
Legislative and grassroots efforts to fight online abuse and reform outdated laws
The importance of trauma-informed leadership and legal practice
Micha Star Liberty is a nationally recognized civil rights and personal injury attorney based in Oakland, California. With over 25 years of experience, she is the founder of Liberty Law and The Soaring Center, and a co-founder of Radiant Star Roasters and Lion Hearted Leader. Micha specializes in representing survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking, and gender-based violence. A fierce advocate for systemic change, she also engages in legislative lobbying, restorative justice work, and leadership training with a focus on trauma-informed practice. Micha is the author of Evolutionista: The Revolutionary Act of Accountability and Advocacy After Sexual Abuse. Learn more at libertylaw.com.
Connect with Micha Star Liberty:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michastarliberty/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvolutionistaMSL/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michastarliberty/
Micha’s official website: https://evolutionista.com/
Resources & Links:
Micha Star Liberty's Law Firm: libertylaw.com
The Soaring Center: https://thesoaringcenter.com/
Radiant Star Roasters: radiantstarroasters.com
Micha's Book: Evolutionista
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Know the "Help Me" Hand Signal: Canadian Women’s Foundation
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Breaking Waves, Breaking Ceilings with Capt. Kate McCue

"You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable, because that’s where the opportunities live."
In this inspiring episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey sits down with the trailblazing Captain Kate McCue — the first American woman to captain a megaship and now the captain for the upcoming ultra-luxury Four Seasons Yachts. From her early dreams of being a cruise director to navigating a male-dominated maritime industry, Captain Kate shares her remarkable journey with warmth, humor, and profound insight. The conversation explores the power of diversity at sea, the emotional cost of long voyages, the joys and grief of onboard companionship (including her beloved Sphynx cat, Bug Naked), and the future of boutique luxury cruising. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, an aspiring seafarer, or someone who simply loves stories of courage and reinvention, this episode is a must-listen.
What You'll Learn:
How Captain Kate's father's encouragement sparked a lifelong career at sea
Why diversity and inclusion on international ships have been key to her success
What it's like to build and lead the first-ever Four Seasons Yacht from scratch
The emotional highs and lows of life at sea—from romance to resilience
How solo travel and female empowerment intersect in beautiful ways
Why travel connections can become the greatest souvenirs of all
Captain Kate McCue is a maritime pioneer, best known as the first American woman to captain a cruise megaship. With over two decades of experience at sea, she has captained ships for Disney, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and is now leading the charge at Four Seasons Yachts. Captain Kate is also a vocal advocate for diversity in the maritime industry and is known for her engaging social media presence, where she shares life at sea with humor and heart.
Follow Captain Kate:
Instagram: @captainkatemccue
TikTok: @captainkatemccue
Youtube: 
Facebook
Official Website
Four Seasons Yachts
Resources & Links:
Venty Fan (mentioned in the episode)
Ship EEZ motion sickness patches:
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Keep Digging with Dr. Smiti Nathan

 "Archeology isn't just about digging up the past—it's about understanding the present, empowering local voices, and uncovering the stories that shape our shared humanity."
In this thought-provoking and delightfully human conversation, Stacey sits down with Dr. Smiti Nathan, an archaeologist, educator, and storyteller who is redefining how we connect with history. Dr. Nathan shares her unexpected journey into archaeology, sparked by a high school career test, and how that path has led her from the classrooms of George Washington University to fieldwork in Ethiopia and Oman. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at what modern archaeology entails, breaking the myths of "Indiana Jones-style" exploration and emphasizing the importance of ethical practices, cultural respect, and community collaboration. Dr. Nathan also dives into her passion for public education and storytelling through her popular YouTube channel, where she brings overlooked aspects of history—like ancient menstruation practices and plant archaeology—to life.
With humor, humility, and insight, Dr. Nathan discusses everything from working with Omani women farmers to the challenges women still face in male-dominated academic fields. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of cultural travel, or someone curious about how stories shape our world, this episode is a must-listen.
What You'll Learn:
What archaeology really looks like beyond the Hollywood tropes
The difference between excavation, surveying, and laboratory work
How Dr. Nathan's research in Oman and Ethiopia reveals untold cultural narratives
Why cultural respect and local collaboration are non-negotiable in fieldwork
The role of storytelling in making history accessible and inclusive
How women are both reshaping and underrepresented in archaeological scholarship
The emotional and intellectual joys of building international research relationships
Dr. Smiti Nathan is an archaeologist, educator, and digital storyteller whose work spans continents and disciplines. She has conducted fieldwork in Ethiopia, Oman, Greece, and India, specializing in archaeological survey, GIS mapping, archaeobotany, and ethnoarchaeology. Dr. Nathan is also the creator behind a successful YouTube channel where she makes history accessible, engaging, and representative by highlighting overlooked topics and voices. Her mission is to use storytelling to connect people with the past in meaningful ways.
Connect with Dr. Smiti Nathan:
YouTube
Website: smitinathan.com
Instagram
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The Traveling Nanas: The Wild Adventures of Sandy & Ellie

"We don’t go on vacation. We go on adventures. And every adventure just revs us up for the next one."
In this extraordinary episode, host Stacey chats with the inspiring best friends Sandy and Ellie—aka "The Traveling Nanas"—about their unforgettable journey around the world in 80 days at age 81. What started as a whimsical idea became a viral sensation, leading to TV appearances, a book deal with Penguin Random House, and a platform to share their deep wisdom on friendship, loss, and fearless living. From run-ins with the KGB on the Trans-Siberian Railway to narrowly escaping Syria during the onset of war, Sandy and Ellie offer a masterclass in embracing adventure at any age. Their stories will make you laugh, cry, and reimagine what's possible, whether you're 31 or 81.
What You’ll Learn:
How to travel the world safely and affordably on a tight budget
Why second-class train seats and local inns make for the best travel stories
The magic of spontaneous friendship and universal connection
How to face grief and loss with courage and curiosity
The behind-the-scenes story of their book "Here We Go" and unexpected fame
Why age should never be a barrier to exploring the world
Sandy and Ellie - The Traveling NanasLifelong adventurers, Sandy and Ellie became best friends at age 60 through mission work in Zambia. In their 80s, they set out to travel the world in 80 days, earning viral fame for their joy, resilience, and zest for life. Their upcoming book, Here We Go, chronicles their travels and the transformative power of friendship and faith.
Connect with the Nanas:
Instagram: @thetravelingnanas
TikTok: @aroundtheworldat80 
YouTube: Around the World at 80 
Facebook: Around the World at 80 
Book: Here We Go (Penguin Random House)
On Kindle
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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Cyberbullies vs. a Mother’s Love: The Erin Popolo Story

💙 Important Note: Today’s episode contains conversations about suicide. If this topic is sensitive for you, please take care while listening. If you need support, call 988 in the U.S. or reach out to crisis resources near you.
"When you hand your child the world through social media, you're also giving the world access to them."
In this heart-wrenching yet empowering episode, Stacey sits down with Erin Popolo, a courageous mother who shares the devastating story of losing her 17-year-old daughter, Emily, to suicide after relentless cyberbullying. Erin walks us through Emily's life—her gentle spirit, her struggles with mental illness, and the increasing isolation and cruelty she faced online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Erin opens up about the unimaginable grief of that loss, the horrifying experience of her daughter's funeral being targeted by online bullies, and how she's transformed her pain into activism. From founding Emmy's Champions to advocating for the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), Erin is now on a mission to protect children and hold social media platforms accountable. This is an urgent, deeply human conversation about love, loss, and the power of purpose.
What You'll Learn:
The reality of cyberbullying and its psychological impact on teens
How COVID-19 and virtual learning exacerbated Emily's mental health challenges
The dangers of social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram
Why current laws do little to protect kids online and how KOSA aims to change that
Practical ways parents can recognize and respond to signs of online bullying
The importance of parental engagement and delaying kids' access to social media
How to be an "upstander" and teach children empathy and kindness
Erin Popolo is a devoted mother turned activist following the tragic loss of her daughter Emily to suicide in 2021. Erin is the founder of Emmy's Champions, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about cyberbullying and mental health, offering scholarships, and organizing community events like the annual Kindness Fair. She also works with national organizations such as Parents for Safe Online Spaces (PSOS) and advocates for federal legislation like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Through her relentless work, Erin is fighting to ensure no other parent has to endure the pain she lives with daily.
Follow & Support Erin:
Emmy's Champions: www.emmyschampions.com
Parents for Safe Online Spaces (PSOS): www.parentssos.org/
Instagram: @emmyschampions
Facebook: Emmy's Champions
Resources & Links:
Mallory's Army: https://mallorysarmy.org
Attitudes in Reverse: https://air.ngo
If this episode moved you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and follow the podcast. More importantly, visit the PSOS website to learn how you can support the Kids Online Safety Act. Contact your representatives. Be part of the change. Protect our children. #BeKind #EmmysChampions #PassKOSA
#Cyberbullying #StopCyberbullying #OnlineSafety #DigitalWellbeing #KindnessOnline
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Pregnant, Penniless, and Powerful: Wendy Alexander’s Turning Point

"When a woman finds her strength and continues to go, she will eventually succeed."
In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Stacey sits down with Wendy Alexander—career coach, activist, and survivor—to explore her extraordinary life journey. Born and raised in apartheid-era South Africa, Wendy shares how early encounters with racial injustice shaped her spirit of resistance and ultimately forged the foundation of her purpose. From leading youth protests to surviving domestic violence and financial ruin, Wendy’s story is one of incredible resilience and radical reinvention.
Listeners will gain intimate insight into Wendy’s transition from surviving trauma to thriving as a successful career strategist, author, and global coach. Along the way, she reveals how midlife women can reclaim their confidence, purpose, and power in a rapidly evolving world—and why it’s never too late to begin again. Wendy speaks candidly about motherhood, mental health, menopause, starting over, and her passion for lifting others into lives they love.
What You’ll Learn:
What it was like to grow up during apartheid in South AfricaHow trauma impacts identity, self-worth, and decision-making
Strategies for rebuilding after domestic violence, financial hardship, and personal loss
The importance of therapy and self-inquiry in healing and transformation
How to approach job hunting, networking, and negotiation with authenticity
Why midlife is the perfect time for career reinvention
How to integrate AI into your professional life without fear
The value of emotional intelligence in leadership and life
Wendy Alexander is a globally recognized career strategist, writer, and speaker who empowers midlife professionals to reboot their careers with purpose and passion. Having endured and overcome systemic racism, financial loss, and personal trauma, Wendy brings lived experience and deep compassion to her coaching work. Her business, Happy Career Hub, helps clients across Australia and around the world navigate professional transitions with confidence and clarity.
Connect with Wendy:
Website: HappyCareerHub.com
LinkedIn: Wendy Alexander
If this episode sparked something in you—whether it inspired, challenged, or opened your eyes to new possibilities—don’t forget to hit subscribe, leave a thoughtful review, and share it with someone who could benefit from Wendy’s journey. For more behind-the-scenes moments and a sneak peek at future guests, join us on social media.
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Midlife Without Borders: From Foreign Service to Finding Home — Alison Krupnick

"Big and small dreams are worth paying attention to – everyone deserves joy, however they choose to find it."
In this deeply moving and empowering episode, Stacey reconnects with her cousin, Alison Krupnick, whose life story unfolds across continents, careers, and challenges. From her time as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer working on the frontlines of refugee resettlement, to navigating multiple cancer diagnoses, to her bold relocation to Portugal, Alison shares how she continually embraced change, pursued meaning, and reclaimed joy. The conversation traverses topics like international diplomacy, healthcare inequity, the reinvention of identity post-career and motherhood, and the healing power of food and community. With warmth and insight, Alison offers a rare perspective on resilience, adaptability, and making a new life on your own terms.
What You’ll Learn:
What it means to live through reinvention multiple times in a single lifetime
Insights into the life and responsibilities of a Foreign Service Officer
The emotional weight of approving or denying refugee cases
Navigating multiple cancer diagnoses and how the U.S. healthcare system fails many
The power of empathy, perspective, and rediscovering purpose later in life
What it takes to move abroad and build a meaningful new life
How food became a thread connecting identity, creativity, and joy
Alison Krupnick is a writer, former Foreign Service Officer, education advocate, and expat currently living in Portugal. With a career that has spanned international diplomacy, communications, and community organizing, Alison is also the author of Ruminations from the Minivan: Musings from a World Grown Large, Then Small. Her essays have been featured in publications such as the Harvard Review and The New York Times. Alison writes a Substack newsletter and continues to explore life through travel, cooking, and cultural immersion.
Connect with Alison:
Book: Ruminations from the Minivan
On Kindle
Substack: https://alisonkrupnick.substack.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akrupnick/
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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The Real Cost of Caregiving—and Why AARP’s Amy Goyer Still Chooses Love

“Caregiving isn’t about perfection—it’s about doing your best, choosing to care, and finding ways to keep your own tank full along the way.”
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Amy Goyer, AARP's National Family and Caregiving Expert, shares her decades-long journey of caring for multiple family members while also working full-time. From supporting her grandparents with Alzheimer's to navigating her parents' complex health issues, and even serving as the primary caregiver for her sister, Amy's story is filled with lessons on resilience, love, loss, and the critical importance of self-care. She and host Stacey explore the emotional realities of caregiving, including guilt, relief, burnout, and the importance of community support. Amy also offers practical resources from AARP, tips on legal and financial planning, and strategies for filling your own “tank” so you can better care for others. This is a must-listen for anyone in the caregiving role or preparing for it.
What You’ll Learn:
How caregiving often chooses you—and how to adapt when it does.
Why self-care isn’t selfish and how to integrate it into your daily routine.
Navigating the emotional complexities of guilt, grief, and relief.
Practical tips for legal, financial, and long-term care planning.
How to access and leverage AARP's wealth of caregiver resources.
The power of connecting with other caregivers for support and shared wisdom.
Amy Goyer is AARP's National Family and Caregiving Expert, with over 40 years of experience working in the field of aging and caregiving. She has personally cared for her grandparents, parents, and sister, giving her a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience. Amy is the author of multiple books, including Juggling Work and Caregiving, and is a sought-after speaker and advocate for family caregivers nationwide.
#caregivertips #AARP
Connect with Amy:
Facebook Group: AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group
Book: Juggling Work and Caregiving
Book On Kindle
Social Media 
Linked In
Facebook
Instagram
x.com/amygoyer 
Youtube 
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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I Got Old, Darling with Constance McCashin

Hollywood, Hormones & Reinventing Life After 50
In this poignant and wildly engaging episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey sits down with the ever-insightful and endlessly witty Constance McCashin. Best known for her role as Laura Avery on the long-running primetime soap Knots Landing, Constance opens up about her bold pivot from Hollywood actress to licensed therapist. Together, they explore themes of aging in the spotlight, the marginalization of mature women in media, the deeply personal influence of her sister with Down syndrome, and the profound power of human connection. This is more than a conversation—it’s a tribute to resilience, humor, and the audacity to reinvent.
What You'll Learn:
Why Constance McCashin left a successful acting career for mental health advocacy
The challenges and triumphs of aging in an image-obsessed industry
How her sister's life shaped her path as a special education teacher and therapist
Behind-the-scenes tales from Knots Landing and working with Hollywood legends
Insight into the realities of eating disorders, therapy, and the human need for connection
The unique intersection of acting and psychotherapy
Constance McCashin is an American actress and licensed clinical social worker. She gained national fame portraying Laura Avery on Knots Landing for nine seasons and later transitioned into a second career in mental health. Holding multiple advanced degrees, including in psychology and social work, Constance now practices as a therapist specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, and trauma. Her approach blends warmth, humor, and deep empathy—qualities that shine through both her on-screen performances and therapeutic work.
Connect with Constance McCashin:
IMDb Profile
Knots Landing Reunion Interview (YouTube)
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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