• Two Stage 4 Cancer Thrivers: Integrative Healing, Transformation, and Resilience with Willow Star (Part 2)
    Jul 22 2025

    In this powerful episode of Mermaid Musings, host Tara Coyote reconnects with fellow Stage 4 cancer thriver and beloved friend Willow Star (formerly known as Keri Vaca). Recorded in May 2020 during the early days of the pandemic, this Zoom conversation was originally part of Tara’s vision for a documentary titled Cancer Thriver Film - spotlighting late-stage cancer patients who continue to defy the odds.


    Fast forward to today: both Tara and Willow are still here, thriving, and shining as living proof that miracles exist.


    In Part 2 of this two-part series, Tara and Willow explore:

    • What inspired Willow to share her cancer journey so openly online
    • The emotional toll of losing friends and community members to cancer
    • How we can all benefit from listening to our fear and exploring what it’s asking us to heal… even if we aren’t facing illness


    Their raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating illness, seeking alternative healing, or simply in need of hope. Hit play to witness the courage and compassion between two women redefining what it means to live with Stage 4 cancer.


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/nt6O9Hpqb8w


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW WILLOW STAR:

    https://www.meetwillowstar.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meetwillowstar

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meetwillowstar


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    38 mins
  • Two Stage 4 Cancer Thrivers: Integrative Healing, Transformation, and Resilience with Willow Star (Part 1)
    Jul 8 2025

    In this powerful episode of Mermaid Musings, host Tara Coyote reconnects with fellow Stage 4 cancer thriver and beloved friend Willow Star (formerly known as Keri Vaca). Recorded in May 2020 during the early days of the pandemic, this Zoom conversation was originally part of Tara’s vision for a documentary titled Cancer Thriver Film - spotlighting late-stage cancer patients who continue to defy the odds.


    Fast forward to today: both Tara and Willow are still here, thriving, and shining as living proof that miracles exist.


    In Part 1 of this two-part series, Tara and Willow explore:

    • The power of integrative healing
    • How a cancer diagnosis became a transformational force in Willow’s life
    • Why it’s essential to acknowledge fear before letting it go
    • What it really looks like to live fully with a serious diagnosis


    Their raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating illness, seeking alternative healing, or simply in need of hope. Hit play to witness the courage and compassion between two women redefining what it means to live with Stage 4 cancer.


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/nt6O9Hpqb8w


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW WILLOW STAR:

    https://www.meetwillowstar.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meetwillowstar

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meetwillowstar


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    38 mins
  • Why Love Heals: A Candid Conversation with Dr. Dean Shrock on Mind-Body Medicine, Cancer Recovery, and the Power of Connection
    Jun 24 2025

    In this heartfelt and spontaneous episode of Mermaid Musings, Tara Coyote shares an unexpected yet powerful conversation with renowned mind-body medicine expert, Dr. Dean Shrock. Originally not intended for public release, this vibrant exchange became too meaningful not to share. The result? A deeply authentic, informal, and inspiring talk that feels more like a soul-to-soul connection than a traditional interview.


    Dr. Dean Shrock served as the Director of Mind-Body Medicine for a physician group overseeing 40 cancer centers. His groundbreaking wellness programs demonstrated improved survival rates for cancer patients, anchored in the healing power of love, purpose, and inner peace. He is the bestselling author of “Doctor’s Orders: Go Fishing, Why Love Heals, and Living and Thriving.”


    In this episode, Dr. Shrock and Tara explore:

    • How love and connection influence healing and longevity
    • The importance of purpose and emotional expression in cancer recovery
    • Mind-body-spirit medicine and its growing role in integrative oncology
    • Why living fully is one of the most powerful medicines we have


    Whether you're navigating illness, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking deeper wellness, this conversation will leave you feeling uplifted and empowered.


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/BjFXmuW8z-Q


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW DR. DEAN SHROCK:

    https://deanshrock.com/

    Why Love Heals book: https://amzn.to/47g4rx3

    Doctor's Orders: Go Fishing: https://amzn.to/3srtj65

    Integrative Oncology: https://amzn.to/3MP9CvJ

    The Power of the Heart: https://amzn.to/40BWe3X

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-shrock-0351b015

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeanShrockPhD


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    41 mins
  • Shark Wisdom with Nick “Hex” Van Sicklen: From Nuclear Engineer to Shark Advocate | Mermaid Musings with Tara Coyote
    Jun 10 2025

    Tara Coyote dives deep into the world of sharks with Nick “Hex” Van Sicklen - a former nuclear engineer turned shark whisperer, dive guide, and passionate ocean advocate.


    Nick shares his incredible journey of traveling the globe in pursuit of shark encounters and his current career leading ocean expeditions in the Bahamas with legendary conservationist Jim Abernethy (who I’ve previously interviewed on the podcast, if you want to learn more about the incredible work he is doing!).


    Together, Tara and Hex unpack why sharks are so deeply misunderstood, how media-fueled fear impacts conservation, and why these apex predators are critical to a thriving ocean ecosystem!


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/y8WxLa5X4mI


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW NICK "HEX" VAN SICKLEN:

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


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    37 mins
  • Hannah Mermaid on Ocean Activism, Underwater Modeling & Living with Purpose
    May 27 2025

    In this episode of Mermaid Musings, host Tara Coyote dives deep with legendary ocean activist and underwater icon Hannah Fraser, also known as Hannah Mermaid. As the original modern-day mermaid, Hannah pioneered the mermaid movement before it became a trend - blending performance art, ocean advocacy, and soul-led storytelling into a powerful life path.


    Tune in as Hannah shares:

    • How she forged the path as the OG professional mermaid
    • Her fearless work in ocean conservation
    • The creation of Siren Sanctuary in Costa Rica, a healing retreat and training space
    • Her thoughts on why a healthy ocean ecosystem is vital to human survival
    • Insights on diving into your own mermaid path with intention and purpose


    Hannah’s unique journey is filled with passion, purpose, and activism. She blends art and environmentalism like no other, using her platform to speak for the voiceless creatures of the sea, and encourages others to live in harmony with nature while boldly following their dreams.


    This conversation is for ocean lovers, aspiring mermaids, conservationists, and anyone seeking inspiration from someone who lives deeply in alignment with their soul’s mission.


    Dive into a powerful story of mermaids and ocean conservation, ‘Kaimana the Hawaiian Mermaid’ - a portion of the proceeds goes to support Happywhale, contributing to global whale conservation efforts (*I make a small commission when you order from this link!).


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/wsSz2RH9E9k?si=AVKDZBLaYZDfiunM


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW HANNAH THE MERMAID:

    https://www.hannahmermaid.com/

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

    YouTube: youtube.com/@HannahFraserMermaid

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HannahMermaid


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    33 mins
  • Sharks, Myths & the Truth Beneath: A Conversation with Ocean Advocate Jim Abernethy
    May 13 2025

    In this eye-opening episode of Mermaid Musings, ocean activist and mermaid Tara Coyote dives deep with renowned shark conservationist and wildlife advocate Jim Abernethy to expose the truth about one of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures: sharks.


    Jim reveals why sharks are vital to the health of our oceans, how their role as the “lungs of the planet” keeps marine ecosystems in balance, and why the fear-fueled myths popularized by movies like Jaws are dangerously misleading.

    Despite their shy nature, sharks are facing extinction - up to 150 million sharks are killed each year, primarily for food and cosmetic purposes, while only an average of 6 human deaths are attributed to sharks annually. Jim challenges the narrative and shares his personal experiences swimming with sharks, advocating for their protection, and empowering others to help save them.


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/eMBhbFg-Vr0


    Listen now and subscribe to Mermaid Musings for powerful conversations like this one - with passionate ocean advocates, soulful stories of resilience, and inspiring calls to protect our planet. Join Tara’s email newsletter to stay updated on new episodes and announcements!


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW JIM ABERNETHY:

    Learn more about Jim’s work: https://scuba-adventures.com

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimRAbernethy/


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote (*I make a small commission when you order from these links!)

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

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    29 mins
  • A Peace of Hope: Thriving with Stage 4 Cancer | Interview with Brittney Beadle
    Apr 29 2025

    In this heart-opening episode of Mermaid Musings, host Tara Coyote sits down with cancer thriver and radiant soul Brittney Beadle, who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer at just 18 years old. Nearly 9 years later, Brittney is living life with deep presence, strength, and spiritual insight.


    Tara and Brittney dive into an honest and vulnerable conversation about:

    • What it’s really like to live with stage 4 cancer
    • Finding light through life’s darkest moments
    • The importance of self-love, inner peace, and acceptance
    • Navigating emotional and physical highs and lows
    • How to embody joy, even in the midst of pain


    Tara describes Brittney as a highly evolved soul, full of wisdom and grace far beyond her years. Their conversation is an invitation for anyone walking through adversity to reconnect with hope, healing, and purpose. Whether you're navigating a cancer journey yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply in need of a little inspiration, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and deeply moved.


    Please check out Brittney’s book ‘A Peace of Hope’ on Amazon to read more about her journey and brilliant philosophy.

    Learn more about Tara’s journey healing from Stage 4 cancer in ‘Grace, Grit & Gratitude: A Cancer Thriver's Journey from Hospice to Full Recovery with the Healing Power of Horses’ - a portion of the sale of each book will be donated to The Wild Beauty Foundation, an organization that works to raise awareness for the wild horses of North America (*I make a small commission when you order from this link!).


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/jp3WQZRHsLo?si=nat0pdb0qRHdCNw3


    Listen now and be sure to subscribe to Mermaid Musings and join Tara’s email list to be the first to hear new episodes and soulful stories of resilience and transformation.


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW BRITTNEY BEADLE:

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

    Thriver: A Survivor Story (a movie about her!): https://youtu.be/z8nlDeaou8U?si=7JRRrwj_sYHhEvNH

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brittbeadle


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

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

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    34 mins
  • Whales, Wonder & Conservation with Ted Cheeseman | Tracking Ocean Giants with Happywhale
    Apr 14 2025

    In the premiere episode of Mermaid Musings, Tara Coyote - mermaid, author, cancer thriver, and ocean activist - dives deep into a powerful conversation with her brother, Ted Cheeseman, a marine biologist, scientist, and the founder of Happywhale.


    Ted is a world leader in whale research, revolutionizing how we track and understand whales using innovative tail recognition software. His work helps researchers across the globe monitor whale populations and advocate for the protection of our oceans.


    Together, Tara and Ted discuss:

    • The magic and intelligence of humpback and sperm whales
    • The dangers whales face today, including plastic pollution and ocean noise
    • The importance of maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem
    • Their shared upbringing by environmentalist parents, who ran Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris

    Tara’s children’s book, Kaimana the Hawaiian Mermaid, inspired by a tragic but true event: a sperm whale that washed up ashore on Kaua’i due to garbage ingestion and how a group of mermaids made a positive impact for the Earth and all of humanity.


    A portion of the proceeds from ‘Kaimana the Hawaiian Mermaid goes to support Happywhale, contributing to global whale conservation efforts (*I make a small commission when you order from this link!).


    Whether you’re a nature lover, an advocate for the planet, or simply curious about these gentle giants of the sea - this episode is a must-listen. Don’t forget to subscribe and join Tara’s mailing list to stay updated on new episodes and ocean-loving adventures.


    Want to watch the full video interview? Check it out at: https://youtu.be/OLnX1mBvbjg?si=ottbUid3SdwILF-2


    Sign Up For The Newsletter:

    https://www.taracoyote.com


    FOLLOW HAPPYWHALE:

    https://happywhale.com/home

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happywhales


    FOLLOW TARA COYOTE @taracoyote

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/taracoyote

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcoyote

    TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@taracoyote

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/TaraCoyote

    Browse my books at http://amazon.com/author/taracoyote

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

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    45 mins