Stronger Together Podcast

The Stronger Together Podcast is currently being hosted by Anne Caldwell and Michael Dixon. Stronger Together features inspirational stories from a wide variety of guests, which focus on self-improvement, addiction & recovery, and mental health support.

Stronger Together Podcast is a health podcast hosted by Anne Caldwell and Michael, with 69 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Anne Caldwell and Michael hosts Stronger Together Podcast, a health show with 69 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #106

  From Pain to Purpose: A Conversation with Youth Speaker Lawrence C. Harris

  Aug 17, 20261h 6m

  hat happens when someone decides that their past will not define their future? In this meaningful and encouraging episode, we welcome Lawrence C. Harris, youth speaker, author, and advocate for personal growth. Lawrence works with teens and young adults, helping them strengthen their confidence, move beyond limiting beliefs, and make choices that support the lives they want to build. Lawrence shares openly about the difficult experiences that shaped him and the inner work that helped him move forward. His story is not about pretending hardship does not exist—it is about recognizing that healing is possible, growth can begin with small steps, and each person has more power than they may realize. This is a conversation about self-worth, resilience, healing, and hope. It is for young people finding their way, as well as parents, educators, mentors, and anyone who believes in the potential of the next generation. Lawrence's message is simple and powerful: your story is still being written, and your past does not have to determine your future. About Lawrence C. Harris Lawrence C. Harris is a youth speaker who empowers teens and young adults to believe in themselves, think differently about their futures, and make better decisions. Through speaking engagements, workshops, books, and online content, he shares relatable stories and practical tools for building confidence, resilience, and a growth-focused mindset. Connect with Lawrence: https://www.lawrencecharris.com/ Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co CHAPTERS OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com

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  Stronger Together Podcast

  Beyond the Badge: The Syd Gravel Story

  Aug 3, 202658 min

  In this episode of The Stronger Together Podcast , Michael Dixon welcomes retired police officer, author, and peer support advocate Syd Gravel for an important conversation about PTSD, operational stress injuries, resilience, and the power of connection. After more than three decades in policing, Syd understands the unique challenges faced by first responders both during their careers and after they leave the job. His own experience with PTSD became a turning point, leading him to dedicate himself to supporting others and helping break the stigma surrounding mental health in the first responder community. Through his involvement in peer support and trauma-informed initiatives, Syd has worked to ensure that first responders have access to the understanding, resources, and support they need. He has been involved with organizations and initiatives including: • Robin's Blue Circle — a confidential peer support initiative focused on supporting first responders affected by traumatic experiences and promoting the value of connection and shared experience. • Badge of Life Canada — focused on supporting the mental health and wellness of Canadian public safety personnel. • Mood Disorders Society of Canada — advancing mental health awareness and support initiatives, including peer and trauma support programs. Syd is also an accomplished author who has used his writing to share knowledge, lived experience, and practical guidance with first responders, leaders, and families. His books include: • 56 Seconds • How to Survive PTSD and Build Peer Support • Walk the Talk – First Responder Peer Support (co-author) • Slay the Toxic Dragon – Police Leadership Impacting Member Wellness (co-author) In this episode, Michael and Syd discuss Syd's journey through policing, his personal experience with PTSD, the importance of peer support, and why connection with others who understand the first responder experience can be such a powerful part of healing. They also explore the role of leadership, families, and communities in supporting those who serve, and the importance of creating an environment where asking for help is viewed as a strength. This is a meaningful conversation about resilience, recovery, and the reminder that no one should have to face their struggles alone. About Syd Gravel Syd Gravel is a retired police officer, author, and peer support advocate dedicated to supporting first responders and promoting awareness around PTSD, operational stress injuries, and mental wellness. Through his personal journey, writing, and advocacy work, Syd continues to encourage conversations that help others find connection, understanding, and hope. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co ⸻ OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp CHAPTERS HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com

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  Episode #104

  A Christian Perspective on MAID

  Jul 20, 20261h 5m

  In this episode of *Stronger Together*, Anne Caldwell and Michael Dixon welcome Larry Worthen, Executive Director of the Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada. Larry shares his background in law, public service, and Christian ministry, along with CMDA's work supporting doctors and dentists as they seek to live out their faith in their professional lives. The conversation explores CMDA's opposition to medical assistance in dying (MAID). Larry discusses concerns about patient vulnerability, the changing role of medical professionals, conscience protections for health-care workers, and the anticipated 2027 expansion of MAID eligibility for people whose sole underlying condition is mental illness. He also argues for stronger access to palliative care, mental-health supports, and services for people living with disabilities. Larry also reflects on the pastoral consequences MAID can have for families, churches, and funeral professionals. He describes the complicated grief that can follow a MAID death—particularly within faith communities—and offers perspective on how clergy, caregivers, and loved ones can approach these deeply personal situations with compassion, clarity, and care. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co CHAPTERS 00:00:01 – Welcome and Introduction to Larry Worthen 00:00:41 – CMDA Canada: Supporting Christian Doctors and Dentists 00:02:14 – Why CMDA Opposes Medical Assistance in Dying 00:05:11 – MAID in Canada and the 2027 Mental Health Expansion 00:07:23 – Advocacy, Parliament, and Protecting Vulnerable People 00:08:25 – Patient Autonomy and Health-Care Conscience Rights 00:12:21 – Canada's MAID Landscape Compared with Other Countries 00:14:42 – Medical Ethics, Mental Health, and Gaps in Care 00:20:33 – Aging, Dependency, and the Fear of Being a Burden 00:22:26 – Faith, Conscience, and the Role of Health-Care Professionals 00:31:11 – Eligibility, Oversight, and Differences Across Provinces 00:34:50 – Mental Illness, Treatment, and MAID 00:40:21 – Palliative Care and a Different Path Forward 00:45:35 – Politics, Public Awareness, and Speaking Out 00:53:29 – Vulnerability, Health-Care Failures, and Compassionate Care 01:00:25 – MAID, Grief, Faith Communities, and Funeral Care 01:14:35 – Closing Reflections OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com

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  Stronger Together Podcast

  Celebrants: Changing Funeral Traditions

  Jun 29, 20261h 2m

  Join Todd Reinholt, a licensed funeral director and grief recovery expert, as he shares his journey from healthcare to transforming funerals into authentic celebrations of life. Discover how Todd's personal tragedy led him to redefine funerals, emphasizing humor, storytelling, and personalization. Learn about the importance of normalizing death and grief, and how these elements can foster healing and connection. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in reimagining death care to create meaningful, impactful ceremonies. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co ⸻ CHAPTERS (00:34) - Introduction to Todd's background and journey into funeral service (01:19) - Personal tragedy and career shift (08:53) - Becoming a certified celebrant (16:25) - Grief seminars and community education (23:04) - Insights into grief stages and emotional expression (30:33) - Creative music choices in ceremonies (43:30) - Supporting loved ones through practical gestures (50:40) - Unique funeral rituals and personal stories (58:17) - Celebrating life authentically and breaking taboos OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com

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  Stronger Together Podcast

  The Grave Woman: Redefining Funeral Practices with Cultural Awareness

  Jun 22, 202649 min

  Most people see death care as a somber industry rooted in tradition, but Joél Simone Maldonado, known as The Grave Woman, is rewriting the narrative. A licensed funeral director and embalmer with a vibrant multicultural background, she's on a mission to bring radical inclusivity, cultural authenticity, and community-driven grief to the forefront. Joelle's story—from growing up in a culturally rich Gullah Geechee community, to breaking barriers as a Black woman in death care—reveals how systemic ignorance and racism continue to shape the industry, and more importantly, how those barriers can be dismantled. In this powerful episode, Joelle shares candid insights about her journey navigating a predominantly White industry, fighting tokenization, and advocating for culturally competent death and grief care. You'll discover how her online community and the establishment of the Multicultural Death and Grief Care Academy are creating ripples for change—empowering professionals to serve diverse communities with greater sensitivity and understanding. She explores critical issues like the widespread need for cultural nuance in embalming, the impact of segregation on care practices, and how trauma from systemic racism persists in how we grieve. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co https://thegravewoman.com ⸻ OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com

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