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SUPERHUMANS

SUPERHUMANS

Well Played

SUPERHUMANS is an audio docu-series where real people share their personal stories and take us on a healing journey revealing the unspoken, unfiltered side of humanity.


Join host, Dr. Gautam Gulati (better known as Dr. G)—who once prescribed pills and now prescribes stories as a form of medicine—in this immersive listening experience where we discover bits and pieces of ourselves in the personal stories shared by others like you.


“Every time I press play, I get chills down my spine. It’s like therapy for my soul," said one listener.


[DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding any questions or needed support.]



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Top 10 SUPERHUMANS Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best SUPERHUMANS episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to SUPERHUMANS for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite SUPERHUMANS episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

SUPERHUMANS - 08 "I Just Wanted to Belong" [Raj's Story]
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04/22/21 • 26 min

When have you felt like an outsider? And when have you felt like you truly belonged?


Today’s SUPERHUMAN storyteller, Raj Aggarwal, reveals to us our shared need for belonging. And how, if we’re outcasted or made to feel “other,” it can impact the course of our life. Raj shares how he initially found an unexpected sense of connection amongst a tribe of addicts. However, after a spiritual journey, he ultimately discovers his true addiction is in being in service to others.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Raj’s story.


Then share.


Trigger Warnings: addiction, racial disparity, social alienation, isolation

Emotional Themes: belonging, honesty, identity, friendship, tribalism, self-love, hope, gratitude, positivity, determination, persistence, resilience, ambition, uncertainty, coping, shame, adapting, support, fear, anger, rejection, discovery, curiosity


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357


National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Help is available 24 hours a day.


STORYTELLER BIO:

Raj Aggarwal lives his life looking through the lens of equity. In 1999, Raj founded Provoc, a certified B-Corporation that envisions a world where every progressive organization achieves its mission. Over twenty years of experience as a communications and technology strategist, he has worked with more than 400 nonprofits and socially responsible businesses on a variety of projects including internal and external branding, marketing and customer engagement. Raj keeps Provoc rooted in empathy-driven work by forging partnerships with values-aligned, visionary leaders and has led workshops and talks at dozens of national conferences. He serves on the boards of Think Local First, DC and Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation, and shares his story with the knowing that vulnerability opens up space for safety, trust and true human connection.


SHOWNOTES:

Raj Aggarwal: Website | LinkedIn

NPR: ‘"Heroin Abuse Sucks’: Recovering Addict Tells His Tale"

Provoc.me: "Vulnerability in Business"


CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

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HOW CAN I SUPPORT SUPERHUMANS?

Tell Your Friends & Share Online!


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What would it look like for you to live your life with grace?


This SUPERHUMANS story shows us how to experience loss with Grace. Kristi opens up about her heart-wrenching struggles with pregnancy and how, in the face of hardship, Hope can serve as our guide.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Kristi's story.


Then share.


Trigger Warnings: pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, death, acute fatty liver syndrome

Emotional Themes: grace, love, hope, loss, self-love, grit, grief, frustration, confidence, positivity, determination, persistence, resiliency, ambition, joy, uncertainty, coping, adapting, support


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


STORYTELLER BIO:

In the days after her daughter Grace was born asleep, as her blood was turning more and more acidic and her liver and kidneys were threatening failure, Kristi promised herself that somehow, someway, she would make something good come out of all the pain and heartbreaking loss. First, she needed to live.

Strength is and always has been Kristi’s most valued trait, but facing her greatest challenge is transforming how that strength manifests in the world. It is becoming less of a stoic “I got this” to more of a raw vulnerability; an ability to openly speak from the heart about anything. Pain, loss, fears, dreams, hope. Everything. Kristi believes that the courage to share one’s story with others—especially when it’s vulnerable—has the power to change the world, one person at a time.


SHOW NOTES:

Kristi Rabska Noonan: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn


HELPFUL ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY KRISTI:

UPON ENTERING HEAVEN

Grace “Gracie” Noonan was born sleeping on February 8, 2019 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL.


"While Gracie never had the chance to take a breath in this world, she was a force. She was strong, determined, yet gentle. She was very active in the womb - a fighter for sure - and although that could bring pain at times, we always knew that was just her trying to find her place in the world. While her feet will never make a print in the soil, her soul will forever leave an imprint on our hearts."


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When was the last time you faced fear head-on? And how did you react in that moment?


Today’s story, told by our beloved friend, Melanie Curtis, reveals how the wrath of fear can either grip you...


... or set you free.


It’s a choice. Your choice.


One that can alter self-perception entirely.


Melanie’s story is medicine because it reminds us that fear has the power to take us away from our greatest self, but that We have the power to override it, ultimately changing the course of the life we have left to live.


So, we invite you to examine who’s holding the pen of your life’s story.


Is it Fear? Or is it You?


As you listen, think about how you see yourself in Mel’s story


Trigger Warnings: grief, divorce, heartbreak, humiliation

Emotional Themes: trauma healing, soul searching, self-help, freedom, emotional recovery



Disclaimer:

This episode mentions the use of psychedelics. The content shared in this episode is for informational purposes only and must not be taken as professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on any practices or substances that could potentially impact your health or have unintended risks, complications or consequences.


STORYTELLER BIO:

Melanie Curtis is a world-record-breaking skydiver. She embodies wild-hearted courage. (We mean that), and pairs it with a sense of humor that warms the soul into finding their Brave self.


Being ambitious in nature, Melanie is also the Executive Director of the Women’s Skydiving Network nonprofit and the co-founder of the Highlight Pro Skydiving Team —an all-female demonstration jump team—which inspires women & girls to live bold brave lives of their own design and elevate conversations of equality and social justice.


Mel’s fire for living courageously is infectious (in a good way). Which is why we’re proud of her for offering her guidance & gifts to people who are ready to do what Melanie calls “the bravest work there is: looking inward.”


We want to thank Mel for her willingness to be vulnerable — with herself, with us, and with all of you.


SHOW NOTES:

Melanie Curtis: Website, Instagram


Books:

One Positive Thought Can Change Everything

With Our Whole Broken Hearts

How to Fly: Life Lessons from a Professional Skydiver.


Podcast:

Trust The Journey


Become a Sponsor: [email protected]

Get involved with Well Played


SHOW CREDITS:

Executive Producer & Show Co-Creator - Dr. Gautam Gulati

Senior Producer & Show Co-Creator - Pamela Rothenberg

Sound Design & Mixing - Rob Speight

Audio Engineer - Jay Wujun Yow


This season of SUPERHUMANS is made possible thanks to an educational grant from our supporters at Daiichi Sankyo.


And special thanks to our creative collaborators, HATCH. Learn more at hatchexperience.org



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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If your life was paired with a musical soundtrack, what would it sound like?


Just like we have 26 letters in the English alphabet to help us craft the language that we call stories, we too have only 12 notes in an octave to help shape an infinite possibility of music.


Today's SUPERHUMANS storyteller, Kendall Ramseur, carries us through a beautifully orchestrated love story. With his original musical composition carrying us alongside his narration, we are invited to move through an emotional symphony that oscillates between the high notes and the low notes.


He moves us through a profound exploration with self, with God, and with music. Together, we share in the human phenomena that unfolds when we face the inner & outer conflict that comes with learning how to embrace our gifts and be our truest self.


As you listen, think about how you see yourself in Kendall’s story.


Trigger Warnings: racism, prejudice, bias

Emotional Themes: self-discovery, inner conflict, prayer, soul searching


STORYTELLER BIO:

Kendall Ramseur is a cellist, composer, and recording artist, who embraces the healing power of music to touch the soul. With honors that include performing for Maya Angelou's 80th birthday in her private residence, performing as the principal cellist in the Grammy Award Orchestra, being a founding member of 'Sons of Serendip,' and competing as a finalist in America’s Got Talent, Kendall continues to embrace his purpose as a messenger of music's medicine. Links to his music are available below. We hope you join us in listening.


SHOW NOTES:

KendallRamseur.com

Listen on Spotify + Apple Music


Become a Sponsor: [email protected]

Get involved with Well Played


SHOW CREDITS:

Executive Producer & Show Co-Creator - Dr. Gautam Gulati

Senior Producer & Show Co-Creator - Pamela Rothenberg

Sound Design & Mixing - Rob Speight

Audio Engineer - Jay Wujun Yow


This season of SUPERHUMANS is made possible thanks to an educational grant from our supporters at Daiichi Sankyo.


And special thanks to our creative collaborators, HATCH. Learn more at hatchexperience.org



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What is something that you've wanted to talk about, but for whatever reason convinced yourself not to?


As SUPERHUMANS returns, we wanted to introduce you to our friend Dee. Dee’s story reminds us of the pain that exists when something important goes un-talked about for too long. We all have that story that hasn’t been told but wants to get out. In today’s episode, we’re celebrating the healing that happens when you break your own silence and allow your story to serve as medicine — that’s what being SUPERHUMAN is all about.


As you listen, invite yourself to think about how you see yourself in Dee’s story


Trigger Warnings: violence, murder, death

Emotional Themes: sibling-hood, loss, family, grief, survival’s guilt, coping, peace


STORYTELLER BIO:

Dee Fretwell leaves an impact in places waiting for change. She has a unique eye for opportunity, and in that, finds way to cultivate shifts—be it through operations, strategic planning, executive coaching or any of her other incredibly needle-moving abilities. Combined with her heart, hope, and belief in what’s possible for future generations Dee can’t help but be a force of nature who naturally shifts chaos into positive change. We’re honored to highlight her power here with SUPERHUMANS.


SHOW NOTES:

Dee Fretwell: LinkedIn + Articles, Website


CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS:

Become a Sponsor: [email protected]

Get involved with Well Played


SHOW CREDITS:

Executive Producer & Show Co-Creator - Dr. Gautam Gulati

Senior Producer & Show Co-Creator - Pamela Rothenberg

Sound Design & Mixing - Rob Speight

Audio Engineer - Jay Wujun Yow


This season of SUPERHUMANS is made possible thanks to an educational grant from our supporters at Daiichi Sankyo.


And special thanks to our creative collaborators, HATCH. Learn more at hatchexperience.org



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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SUPERHUMANS - the REBIRTH of SUPERHUMANS
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12/25/22 • 10 min

What happens when we give ourselves a new start... an opportunity to begin again... a rebirth...


We're asking ourselves these questions as we embark on a new season of SUPERHUMANS—the award-winning audio docu-series that believes, sometimes, Story is the best form of medicine.


You'll also hear us announce something special in this trailer episode, something that we hope gives you the gift of time with yourself.


As you listen, you'll be invited into a space that reminds us all of the importance of being in tune with our inner worlds as much as we are in tune with one another.


This space of reflection and storytelling is made possible thanks to an educational grant awarded to this body of work by our supporters at Daiichi Sankyo. You an learn more about their initiative at www.daiichisankyo.com


Ep. 01 - Mark's Story

Ep. 02 - Michelle's Story

Ep. 03 - Alex's Story

Ep. 04 - Godfrey's Story

Ep. 05 - Kristi's Story

Ep. 06 - David's Story

Ep. 07 - Alexandra's Story

Ep. 08 - Raj's Story


CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

SHOW CREDITS:

Executive Producer & Show Co-Creator - Dr. Gautam Gulati

Senior Producer & Show Co-Creator - Pamela Rothenberg

Sound Design & Mixing - Rob Speight

Audio Engineer - Jay Wujun Yow

Original Theme Music Composition - Daniel Brunelle

Original Music Composition - Radha Mehta

Story Advisor - Cal Fussman


This season of SUPERHUMANS is made possible thanks to an educational grant from our supporters at Daiichi Sankyo.


And special thanks to our creative collaborators, HATCH. Learn more at hatchexperience.org



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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If unable to care for yourself, who would you choose as your guardian angel?


After a harrowing health scare, Alexandra Drane shares her SUPERHUMAN story showing us that angels exist on earth in the form of caregivers, and that we should celebrate them with the dignity and respect they deserve.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Alexandra’s story.


Then share.


Trigger Warnings: cancer, meningioma, death, caregiving, glioblastoma, Diethylstilbestrol (DES)

Emotional Themes: love, hope, gratitude, positivity, determination, persistence, resiliency, ambition, joy, uncertainty, coping, adapting, support, loss, fear


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


STORYTELLER BIO:

Alexandra Drane is a big-hearted champion of caregivers. She's transformed her beliefs into business and charitable efforts as the co-founder and CEO of Rebel Health and ARCHANGELS, and as Wellness Expert for Prudential, as well as the co-founder of five boot-strapped companies, including Eliza Corporation (acquired by HMS Holdings Corp: HMSY) and Engage with Grace. No surprise, Alexandra is also a cashier-on-leave for Walmart because she believes retail is the front line of health. She has one hobby outside of her passion for revolutionizing health care, and her love of family and adventure...car racing.


SHOW NOTES:


CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS:

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Has there ever been something you thought defined you, but maybe doesn’t have to...


This SUPERHUMANS story demonstrates that living with a disease does not define who someone is. As you’ll hear, Godfrey Nazareth is part human, part machine...literally. He puts on his superhero suit every morning as he armors up to defeat ALS.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Godfrey's story.

Then share.


Trigger Warnings: ALS, neurodegenerative disease, physical injury, loss of muscle function

Emotional Themes: loneliness, self-love, confidence, positivity, faith, grit, determination, persistence, resiliency, ambition, happiness, uncertainty, coping, adapting, love, support


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


STORYTELLER BIO:

Godfrey Nazareth is part human, part machine...literally. As a biomedical engineer, research scientists and entrepreneur Godfrey has self-built his own technological tools to combat the effects of ALS—a neurodegenerative disease that severely impacts one’s physical abilities, but luckily, spares the brilliance of one’s mind. And Godfrey certainly put his mind and heart to work.


Godfrey is also the President & CEO of X-Biomedical Inc., a MedTech spinout from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He formed X-Biomedical to be on the cutting edge of next-generation surgical tech. His goals and successes prove that disease does not define who someone is.


SHOW NOTES:

CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS:

SUPERHUMANS - 06 "Living In Overtime" [David's Story]
play

03/02/21 • 46 min

What would you do if your life took a turn and you were suddenly given more time to be alive?


In this SUPERHUMAN story, Dr. David Fajgenbaum faces death five times as he struggles to overcome a rare life-threatening disease. Against all odds, he attempts to chase his own cure, proving that with perseverance we can alter the course of our lives... and maybe live in overtime.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in David's story.


Then share.


Trigger Warnings: rare disease, incurable disease, terminal illness, idiopathic multicentric Castleman’s disease, suicidal ideation, depression, death, cancer

Emotional Themes: grit, love, hope, loss, grief, frustration, hopelessness, despair, confidence, positivity, determination, persistence, resiliency, ambition, joy, uncertainty, coping, adapting, support


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Help is available 24 hours a day.


STORYTELLER BIO:

David Fajgenbaum is a disease hunter, a groundbreaking physician-scientist, and a National Bestselling author. His memoir, "Chasing My Cure: A Doctor’s Race to Turn Hope Into Action," details the haunting uncertainty of being diagnosed with a disease that offers more questions than it does answers. But what's wild—and one of the things that makes David SUPERHUMAN—is that he decided to hunt down the answers while fighting for his life. In doing so, he co-founded the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network (CDCN) and is also one of the youngest individuals to be appointed to the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania. We're thankful David is here. His story is medicine.


SHOW NOTES:


CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS:

If you staged your own funeral, what would your friends and family say about you?


This SUPERHUMANS story will tickle your soul by exploring what it means to live a healthy and eternally happy life through the lens of our mortality.


Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Alex's story.

Then share.


Trigger Warnings: death, terminal illness, bullying, divorce

Emotional Themes: love, grief, acceptance, belonging, abandonment, curiosity, death, community, regret, suffering, happiness, health, wellbeing


SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.


STORYTELLER BIO:

Fuelled by unusual questions and imaginative thinking, Dr. Alejandro (Alex) Jadad is on a life mission to create a pandemic of health and well-being. Alex motivates people and organizations to be their most creative by heightening their sense of uncertainty and sense of mortality. Besides being SUPERHUMAN, Alex is also a physician, healer, educator, researcher, innovator, and public advocate. When we listen to him speak, we feel his heart and the honest passion he has to enable people to imagine and create better ways of living as part of a flourishing planet.


His accomplishments astound us. Here’s a short few (of a much longer list):

SHOW NOTES:


CONNECT WITH SUPERHUMANS:

CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS